Search

Abstract Identifying and quantifying the main factors that are jeopardizing amphibian communities worldwide is essential for planning effective amphibian conservation. We collected data on the presence/absence of salamanders and newts (Caudata) and frogs and toads (Anura) in >3600 water points from a large region (30,000 km2) in NW Spain during a 10‐year period (2004–2013). We contrasted a large set of hypotheses explaining presence/absence as a function of anthropogenic factors across the regional elevation gradient (1–2036 m). Logistic regression modeling revealed that salamanders and newts were mainly influenced by pollution and by land use changes, and that the effect of these factors changed with elevation. However, frogs and toads were affected by a larger set of factors acting synergistically, although not including land use changes, and their effect operated at all elevation ranges, except in the case of biological factors (invasive species and wild boar abundance) with higher effects at low elevation. Changes in land use was the most common factor at any elevation and included the abandonment of rural areas, which favors shrub and tree encroachment on former open land, and loss of water points. The most resilient species at any elevation were two frogs, Pelophylax perezi and Rana parvipalmata. The least resilient species were two salamanders, Chioglossa lusitanica and Lissotriton helveticus, followed closely by two toads, Alytes obstetricans and Pelobates cultripes. Unoccupied sites had higher frequencies of biological effects and of changes in land use in the first 5 years of study and lower frequencies of direct human influence factors in the second period. Overall, our results showed that the studied amphibian metacommunity was negatively influenced both by direct and indirect anthropogenic factors, but also that many amphibian species were not only capable of occupying sites which had been altered by human action, but were even favored by land uses generating open habitat, a habitat type that is increasingly uncommon in the region, in the entire Iberian Peninsula and in Europe.

PurposeImmunoglobulin replacement therapy remains a cornerstone of treatment in antibody deficiencies and other inborn errors of immunity. While patient preferences between subcutaneous and intravenous immunoglobulin have been studied through questionnaires, no study has yet explored patient perspectives in a free environment. Therefore, we aimed to conduct a sentiment analysis as well as a temporal and geographical analysis on public opinions obtained from social media to better understand patient satisfaction and public perception on immunoglobulin therapy.MethodsA dataset of 43,700 tweets spanning from the 1st of January of 2012 to the 31st of December of 2022 was obtained. A Valence Aware Dictionary for Sentiment Reasoning sentiment analysis was performed, followed by statistical, geographical and temporal analyses.ResultsMean polarity of intravenous immunoglobulin related tweets was 0.1295 (positive), while mean polarity for subcutaneous immunoglobulin was 0.2117 (positive). Temporal analysis through a statistical model demonstrated that the volume of tweets increased over time for both subcutaneous and intravenous treatment. Geographical analysis revealed that the majority of texts originated from the United States. The highest mean polarity was observed in Romania with a mean value of 0.2966, while the lowest polarity was documented in Norway with a mean of -0.0211.ConclusionTweets linked to subcutaneous immunoglobulin treatment had a higher average polarity, indicating a more positive public perception. The amount of tweets relating to both therapies showed a tendency to increase as the years progressed, implying an increase in public discussion on immunoglobulin treatment.

Abstract The aim of this work is to quantitatively assess the wavefront phase of keratoconic eyes measured by the ocular aberrometer t·eyede (based on WaveFront Phase Imaging Sensor), characterized by a lateral resolution of 8.6 µm without requiring any optical element to sample the wavefront information. We evaluated the parameters: root mean square error, Peak-to-Valley, and amplitude of the predominant frequency (Fourier Transform analysis) of a section of the High-Pass filter map in keratoconic and healthy cohorts. Furthermore, we have analyzed keratoconic eyes that presented dark–light bands in this map to assess their period and orientation with the Fourier Transform. There are significant statistical differences (p value

Abstract Metal individual atoms and few-atom clusters show extraordinary catalytic properties for a variety of organic reactions, however, their implementation in total synthesis of complex organic molecules is still to be determined. Here we show a 11-step linear synthesis of the natural product (±)-Licarin B, where individual Pd atoms (Pd1) catalyze the direct aerobic oxidation of an alcohol to the carboxylic acid (steps 1 and 6), Cu2-7 clusters catalyze carbon-oxygen cross couplings (steps 3 and 8), Pd3-4 clusters catalyze a Sonogashira coupling (step 4) and Pt3-5 clusters catalyze a Markovnikov hydrosylilation of alkynes (step 5), as key reactions during the synthetic route. In addition, the new synthesis of Licarin B showcases an unexpected selective alkene hydrogenation with metal-free NaBH4 and an acid-catalyzed intermolecular carbonyl-olefin metathesis as the last step, to forge a trans-alkene group. These results, together, open new avenues in the use of metal individual atoms and clusters in organic synthesis, and confirm their exceptional catalytic activity in late stages during complex synthetic programmes.

Background: One of the most common food allergies in the pediatric population is allergy to cow’s milk protein (CMPA). Treatment consists of avoiding cow’s milk proteins in lactating mothers and/or using therapeutic formulas based on hydrolysates or vegetable formulas. In infants with CMPA at diagnosis, a different gut microbial profile has been found compared to healthy children, with a reduction in beneficial bacteria. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the gut microbiota profile and its metabolites, dietary patterns and anthropometric variables in a pediatric cohort with CMPA after six months on a restrictive diet compared to healthy controls. Methods: In total, 21 patients diagnosed with CMPA and a control group of 24 healthy infants participated in this study. The fecal microbiota of all participants were investigated by metataxonomic analysis of 16S rDNA amplicons, and fecal short-chain fatty acids were measured by gas chromatography. Epidemiological assessment and dietary questionnaires were carried out for both groups. Results: Regarding growth, no significant differences were found, but differences in dietary intake of some macro- and micronutrients were observed. Patients who were breastfed at six months had higher bifidobacteria and lipid intakes than patients fed with hydrolyzed formulas. Conclusions: Although the growth of CMPA infants fed with therapeutic formula is similar to breastfed CMPA infants, there are differences in microbiota composition and macronutrient intake that underline the importance of continued breastfeeding in CMPA cases.

Este artículo desarrolla la aplicación en el aula de una propuesta didáctica realizada por Isabel Crespí y Ares Llop en torno al estudio del aspecto léxico con el objetivo de mejorar el repertorio léxico del alumnado y la producción de textos descriptivos. Tras una descripción de la propuesta, se realiza una revisión crítica con el objetivo de validar una posible adaptación al marco curricular vigente en clave de situación de aprendizaje y se revisa su implementación en el aula comentando los puntos fuertes y algunas sugerencias de mejora. Por último, se incluyen los anexos con una propuesta de traducción al castellano de las actividades.

Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) has gained significant attention as a means to address the transparency and interpretability challenges posed by black box AI models. In the context of the manufacturing industry, where complex problems and decision-making processes are widespread, the XMANAI platform emerges as a solution to enable transparent and trustworthy collaboration between humans and machines. By leveraging advancements in XAI and catering the prompt collaboration between data scientists and domain experts, the platform enables the construction of interpretable AI models that offer high transparency without compromising performance. This paper introduces the approach to building the XMANAI platform and highlights its potential to resolve the “transparency paradox” of AI. The platform not only addresses technical challenges related to transparency but also caters to the specific needs of the manufacturing industry, including lifecycle management, security, and trusted sharing of AI assets. The paper provides an overview of the XMANAI platform main functionalities, addressing the challenges faced during the development and presenting the evaluation framework to measure the performance of the delivered XAI solutions. It also demonstrates the benefits of the XMANAI approach in achieving transparency in manufacturing decision-making, fostering trust and collaboration between humans and machines, improving operational efficiency, and optimizing business value.

AimsAfter a few passages of in vitro culture, primary human articular chondrocytes undergo senescence and loss of their phenotype. Most of the available chondrocyte cell lines have been obtained from cartilage tissues different from diarthrodial joints, and their utility for osteoarthritis (OA) research is reduced. Thus, the goal of this research was the development of immortalized chondrocyte cell lines proceeded from the articular cartilage of patients with and without OA.MethodsUsing telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) and SV40 large T antigen (SV40LT), we transduced primary OA articular chondrocytes. Proliferative capacity, degree of senescence, and chondrocyte surface antigen expression in transduced chondrocytes were evaluated. In addition, the capacity of transduced chondrocytes to synthesize a tissue similar to cartilage and to respond to interleukin (IL)-1β was assessed.ResultsCoexpression of both transgenes (SV40 and hTERT) were observed in the nuclei of transduced chondrocytes. Generated chondrocyte cell lines showed a high proliferation capacity and less than 2% of senescent cells. These cell lines were able to form 3D aggregates analogous to those generated by primary articular chondrocytes, but were unsuccessful in synthesizing cartilage-like tissue when seeded on type I collagen sponges. However, generated chondrocyte cell lines maintained the potential to respond to IL-1β stimulation.ConclusionThrough SV40LT and hTERT transduction, we successfully immortalized chondrocytes. These immortalized chondrocytes were able to overcome senescence in vitro, but were incapable of synthesizing cartilage-like tissue under the experimental conditions. Nonetheless, these chondrocyte cell lines could be advantageous for OA investigation since, similarly to primary articular chondrocytes, they showed capacity to upregulate inflammatory mediators in response to the IL-1β cytokine.Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2023;12(1):46–57.

BackgroundOsteocalcin plays a role in glucose metabolism in mice, but its relevance in human energetic metabolism is controversial. Its relationship with markers of energetic metabolism in the pediatric population has not been systematically addressed in infants and adolescents.ObjectiveThis study aims to assess the mean differences between tOC, ucOC, and cOC among healthy children and children with type 1 or type 2 diabetes (T1D or T2D) and the correlation of these bone molecules with metabolic markers.MethodsA systematic review and metanalysis were performed following PRISMA criteria to identify relevant observational studies published in English and Spanish using PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO, and Web of Science databases. The risk of bias was assessed using New Castle–Ottawa scale. Effect size measures comprised standardized mean difference (SMD) and Pearson correlations. Heterogeneity and meta-regressions were performed.ResultsThe 20 studies included were of high quality and comprised 3,000 pediatric patients who underwent tOC, cOC, or ucOC measurements. Among healthy subjects, there was a positive correlation of ucOC with WC and weight, a positive correlation of tOC with FPG, HDL-c, WC, height, and weight, and a negative correlation between tOC and HbA1c. Among diabetic subjects, a negative correlation of ucOC with HbA1c and glycemia in both T1D and T2D was found and a negative correlation between tOC and HbA1c in T1D but not in T2D. The ucOC concentrations were lower in T2D, T1D, and patients with abnormal glucose status than among controls. The serum concentrations of tOC concentrations were lower among T1D than in controls. The patient's age, altitude, and HbA1c influenced the levels of serum tOC.ConclusionOsteocalcin is involved in energy metabolism in pediatric subjects because it is consistently related to metabolic and anthropometric parameters.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42019138283.

Reprogramming somatic cells toward pluripotency became possible over a decade ago. Since then, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have served as a versatile and powerful tool not only for basic research but also with the long-term goal of using them in human cell transplantation after differentiation. Nonetheless, downstream applications are frequently blurred by the difficulties that researchers have to face when working with iPSCs, such as trouble with clonal selection, in vitro culture and cryopreservation, adaptation to feeder-free conditions, or expansion of the cells. Therefore, in this article we aim to provide other researchers with practical and detailed information to successfully culture and adapt iPSCs. Specifically, we (1) describe the most common problems when in-vitro culturing iPSCs onto feeder cells as well as its possible troubleshooting, and (2) compare different matrices and culture media for adapting the iPSCs to feeder-free conditions. We believe that the troubleshooting and recommendations provided in this article can be of use to other researchers working with iPSCs and who may be experiencing similar issues, hopefully enhancing the appeal of this promising cell source to be used for biomedical investigations, such as tissue engineering or regenerative medicine applications.

Objective: We address the hypothesis that the extraordinary sandstorm occurred on 22-24 February 2020 might have a role in the different cumulated incidence of COVID-19 cases between the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, since it obliged to reduce significantly air traffic and forced to suspend all major carnival street events in all most locations. Method: We performed a retrospective analysis of COVID-19 cases as to 1 April 2020 according to symptoms onset, weather-related data and Carnival events in Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Results: The sandstorm occurred on February 22-24, 2020, forced air traffic to close, reducing the influx of tourists to the Canary Islands and suspending carnival events in most places, except in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Cumulated incidence as to 1 April was 132.81/100,000 in Tenerife, and 56.04/100,000 in Gran Canaria. Conclusions: The suspension of Carnival events due to the sandstorm in the Canary Islands contributed to reduce differently the SARS-CoV-2 spread in Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Resumen: Objetivo: Investigar la hipótesis de que la extraordinaria tormenta de arena ocurrida el 22-24 de febrero de 2020 pudo tener un papel en la diferente incidencia acumulada de casos de COVID-19 entre las islas de Tenerife y Gran Canaria, en cuanto conllevó una reducción significativa del tráfico aéreo y la cancelación de las mayores celebraciones del carnaval en muchas poblaciones. Método: Se realiza un análisis retrospectivo de los casos de COVID-19 hasta el 1 abril de 2020 según fecha de inicio de los síntomas, de los datos climáticos y de las celebraciones de carnaval en Tenerife y Gran Canaria. Resultados: La tormenta de arena ocurrida el 22-24 de febrero de 2020 obligó a cerrar el tráfico aéreo, reduciendo la llegada de turistas a Canarias, y a suspender las celebraciones de los carnavales en muchas poblaciones, excepto en Santa Cruz de Tenerife. El 1 abril de 2020, la incidencia acumulada de casos era de 132,81/100.000 en Tenerife y de 56,04/100.000 en Gran Canaria. Conclusiones: La cancelación de las celebraciones de carnaval debido a la tempestad de arena en las Islas Canarias parece que contribuyó de manera diferente a la reducción de la incidencia del SARS-CoV-2 en Tenerife y Gran Canaria.

Brachytherapy (BT) for skin cancer is an accepted alternative technique, where surgical scars may be of cosmetic concern, or for elderly patients due to significant comorbidity. BT is used for macroscopic disease and as an adjuvant to surgery (after local excision due to positive or close margins or other unfavorable prognostic factors) [1-3]. The objective of this case report was to examine clinical evolution of a patient who unexpectedly developed an acute parotitis, after second adjuvant superficial brachytherapy fraction in the preauricular area. This unusual toxicity has been described in patients receiving external radiotherapy (EBRT) whose parotid gland was included within irradiation volume. After ruling out other causes of unilateral parotitis, clinical evolution, and dosimetric analysis, this reaction was attributed to BT treatment, showing the same known clinical situation but rarely appearing with low-dose external beam treatments. To our knowledge, this unusual toxicity has not been published previously, when BT was employed.

IntroductionPre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has become a useful tool to reduce the transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in key populations. In this article we assessed the effectiveness, safety, adherence, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) dynamics, and frequency of anal dysplasia among a real-life cohort of PrEP users in Northwest Spain.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was undertaken in the Alvaro-Cunqueiro Hospital, Vigo which included every individual who started daily emtricitabine/tenofovir-disoproxil-fumarate (FTC/TDF) between November-2019 and October-2021. Clinical and epidemiological data were obtained from the patient's medical records. The effectiveness and safety of FTC/TDF were assessed by HIV serology and renal function monitoring every 3 months. Anal, urethral, and oropharyngeal exudates were collected quarterly after the baseline visit.ResultsA total of 126 individuals were considered eligible, most of the participants had previously been diagnosed with a STI (60.3%), 22% had consumed recreational drugs in the year prior, and 13% had engaged in chemsex. At the end of the follow-up, no cases of HIV infection were detected; 3 patients had discontinued FTC/TDF because of side effects but none of them had presented renal toxicity. In addition, the diagnosis of STIs during the follow-up was common (100 cases in 54 patients). Moreover, engagement in chemsex was more common within this latter group (22 vs. 6%, p = 0.013). Among the study population included in the anal screening programme, the frequency of dysplasia was 9%.ConclusionsFTC/TDF was effective, safe, and tolerable in a real-life cohort; adherence remained high throughout the study period (79%). However, a high number of STIs were diagnosed, especially among patients who engaged in chemsex.

Resumen: Introducción: En 2014 se publicó el Documento de Consenso desarrollado por SEIP-SERPE-SEOP para el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de las infecciones osteoarticulares (IOA). En 2015 se constituyó RIOPed como red nacional multidisciplinar para la investigación en IOA. El objetivo del estudio ha sido valorar el grado de adecuación a las recomendaciones establecidas en el consenso durante un año de seguimiento. Material y métodos: Estudio prospectivo multicéntrico nacional realizado entre septiembre de 2015 y septiembre de 2016 en 37 hospitales con inclusión de pacientes menores de 16 años diagnosticados de IOA, confirmada mediante aislamiento microbiológico, o probable: artritis séptica (AS) con > 40.000 leucocitos en líquido sinovial u osteomielitis (OM)/osteoartritis (OA)/espondilodiscitis (ED) con prueba de imagen compatible. Los resultados se compararon con los obtenidos en el estudio retrospectivo realizado entre 2008 y 2012. Resultados: Se incluyeron 255 casos: 131 OM, 79 AS, 30 OA y 15 ED. Respecto a las pruebas complementarias que el consenso consideró de obligada realización, la radiografía se llevó a cabo en el 87,8% de los casos, el hemocultivo en el 91,6% y el cultivo de líquido sinovial en el 99% de AS. Se realizó RM en el 71% de las OM. La elección del tratamiento antibiótico intravenoso empírico se adecuó a las recomendaciones en el 65,1% de los casos, y en el 62,3% para el tratamiento oral. Se llevó a cabo cirugía en el 36,8% de las AS (85,7% artrotomía), con un descenso significativo respecto al estudio retrospectivo (p = 0,014). Solo el 58,5% de casos se ajustaron a las recomendaciones de duración del tratamiento; sin embargo, se comprobó una menor duración del tratamiento intravenoso. Conclusiones: En general, el grado de adecuación a las recomendaciones que marcaron el grupo de expertos es bueno para las pruebas complementarias y aceptable respecto a la elección del tratamiento antibiótico, aun detectándose casi un 40% de inadecuación. Se ha conseguido un descenso de la estancia hospitalaria. Abstract: Introduction: In 2014 the Consensus Document produced by the Spanish Paediatric Societies (SEIP-SERPE-SEOP) was published to help in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoarticular infections (OAI). In 2015 the RIOPed was considered as a multidisciplinary national network for the investigation into OAI. The aim of this study was to assess the level of adaption to the recommendations established in the Consensus during one year of follow-up. Material and methods: A prospective, national multicentre study was carried out in 37 hospitals between September 2015 and September 2016. The study included patients > 16 years-old with a diagnosis of OAI, confirmed by microbiological isolation, or probable: septic arthritis (SA) with > 40,000 white cells in synovial fluid, or osteomyelitis (OM)/spondylodiscitis (SD) with a compatible imaging test. The results were compared with those obtained in a retrospective study conducted between 2008 and 2012. Results: A total of 235 cases were included, of which 131 were OM, 79 SA, 30 OA, and 15 SD. As regards the complementary tests that the Consensus considered mandatory to perform, radiography was carried out on 87.8% of the cases, a blood culture on 91.6%, and culture of the synovial fluid in 99% of SA. A magnetic resonance (MR) was performed on 71% of the OM cases. The choice of intravenous empirical antibiotic treatment was adapted to the recommendations in 65.1% of cases, and in 62.3% for the oral treatment. Surgery was performed in 36.8% of SA cases (85.7% arthrotomy), with a significant decrease compared to the retrospective study (P = .014). Only 58.5% of cases followed the recommendations on the duration of the treatment; however, a lower duration of intravenous treatment was observed. Conclusions: In general, the level of adaptation to the recommendations that were set by the Expert Group, is good for the complementary tests, and acceptable as regards the choice of antibiotic treatment, although inadequate in almost 40% of cases. A decrease in hospital stay was achieved.

Introduction: In 2014 the Consensus Document produced by the Spanish Paediatric Societies (SEIP-SERPE-SEOP) was published to help in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoarticular infections (OAI). In 2015 the RIOPed was considered as a multidisciplinary national network for the investigation into OAI. The aim of this study was to assess the level of adaption to the recommendations established in the Consensus during one year of follow-up. Material and methods: A prospective, national multicentre study was carried out in 37 hospitals between September 2015 and September 2016. The study included patients >16 years-old with a diagnosis of OAI, confirmed by microbiological isolation, or probable: septic arthritis (SA) with >40,000 white cells in synovial fluid, or osteomyelitis (OM)/spondylodiscitis (SD) with a compatible imaging test. The results were compared with those obtained in a retrospective study conducted between 2008 and 2012. Results: A total of 235 cases were included, of which 131 were OM, 79 SA, 30 OA, and 15 SD. As regards the complementary tests that the Consensus considered mandatory to perform, radiography was carried out on 87.8% of the cases, a blood culture on 91.6%, and culture of the synovial fluid in 99% of SA. A magnetic resonance (MR) was performed on 71% of the OM cases. The choice of intravenous empirical antibiotic treatment was adapted to the recommendations in 65.1% of cases, and in 62.3% for the oral treatment. Surgery was performed in 36.8% of SA cases (85.7% arthrotomy), with a significant decrease compared to the retrospective study (P = .014). Only 58.5% of cases followed the recommendations on the duration of the treatment; however, a lower duration of intravenous treatment was observed. Conclusions: In general, the level of adaptation to the recommendations that were set by the Expert Group, is good for the complementary tests, and acceptable as regards the choice of antibiotic treatment, although inadequate in almost 40% of cases. A decrease in hospital stay was achieved. Resumen: Introducción: En 2014 se publicó el Documento de Consenso desarrollado por SEIP-SERPE-SEOP para el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de las infecciones osteoarticulares (IOA). En 2015 se constituyó RIOPed como red nacional multidisciplinar para la investigación en IOA. El objetivo del estudio ha sido valorar el grado de adecuación a las recomendaciones establecidas en el consenso durante un año de seguimiento. Material y métodos: Estudio prospectivo multicéntrico nacional realizado entre septiembre de 2015 y septiembre de 2016 en 37 hospitales con inclusión de pacientes menores de 16 años diagnosticados de IOA, confirmada mediante aislamiento microbiológico, o probable: artritis séptica (AS) con >40.000 leucocitos en líquido sinovial u osteomielitis (OM)/osteoartritis (OA)/espondilodiscitis (ED) con prueba de imagen compatible. Los resultados se compararon con los obtenidos en el estudio retrospectivo realizado entre 2008 y 2012. Resultados: Se incluyeron 255 casos: 131 OM, 79 AS, 30 OA y 15 ED. Respecto a las pruebas complementarias que el consenso consideró de obligada realización, la radiografía se llevó a cabo en el 87,8% de los casos, el hemocultivo en el 91,6% y el cultivo de líquido sinovial en el 99% de AS. Se realizó RM en el 71% de las OM. La elección del tratamiento antibiótico intravenoso empírico se adecuó a las recomendaciones en el 65,1% de los casos, y en el 62,3% para el tratamiento oral. Se llevó a cabo cirugía en el 36,8% de las AS (85,7% artrotomía), con un descenso significativo respecto al estudio retrospectivo (P = ,014). Solo el 58,5% de casos se ajustaron a las recomendaciones de duración del tratamiento; sin embargo, se comprobó una menor duración del tratamiento intravenoso. Conclusiones: En general, el grado de adecuación a las recomendaciones que marcaron el grupo de expertos es bueno para las pruebas complementarias y aceptable respecto a la elección del tratamiento antibiótico, aun detectándose casi un 40% de inadecuación. Se ha conseguido un descenso de la estancia hospitalaria.

Erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition closely related to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, is frequently associated with obesity. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of ED and evaluate the associated risk factors in a cohort of 254 young (18–49 years) nondiabetic obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30 kg m−2) men from primary care. Erectile function (International Index of Erectile Function [IIEF-5] questionnaire), quality of life (Aging Males' Symptoms [AMS scale]), and body composition analysis (Tanita MC-180MA) were determined. Total testosterone was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to study the factors associated with ED. ED prevalence was 42.1%. Subjects with ED presented higher BMI, waist circumference, number of components of the metabolic syndrome, AMS score, insulin resistance, and a more unfavorable body composition than those without ED. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that a pathological AMS score (odds ratio [OR]: 4.238, P < 0.001), degree of obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg m−2, OR: 2.602, P = 0.005, compared with BMI 30–34.9 kg m−2), high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol levels (OR: 0.956, P = 0.004), and age (OR: 1.047, P = 0.016) were factors independently associated with ED. In conclusion, we demonstrate that, in a primary care-based cohort of nondiabetic young obese men, ED affected >40% of subjects. A pathological AMS score, the degree of obesity, and age were positively associated with ED, while elevated HDL-cholesterol levels were inversely associated with the odds of presenting ED. Further prospective studies are needed to evaluate the long-term consequences of ED in this population.

The necrotrophic pathogenic fungus Monilinia laxa causes brown rot disease on stone fruit generating significant yield losses. So far, a limited number of pathogenesis-related virulence factors, such as cell wall degrading enzymes and potential phytotoxins, have been described in Monilinia spp. Using RNA-sequencing data from highly virulent M. laxa ML8L strain at early stages of the infection process (6, 14, 24, and 48 h post-inoculation, hpi) on nectarine and the Pathogen-Host-Interactions (PHI) database, we selected a number of genes for further study and ranked them according to their transcription levels. We identified a class of genes highly expressed at 6 hpi and that their expression decreased to almost undetectable levels at 14 to 48 hpi. Among these genes we found Monilinia__061040 encoding a non-ribosomal peptide synthase (NRPS). Monilinia__061040 together with other five co-regulated genes, forms a secondary metabolism cluster potentially involved in the production of epipolythiodioxopiperazine (ETP) toxin. Quantitative-PCR data confirmed previous RNA sequencing results from the virulent ML8L strain. Interestingly, in a less virulent M. laxa ML5L strain the expression levels of this pathway were reduced compared to the ML8L strain during nectarine infection. In vitro experiments showed that liquid medium containing peach extract mimicked the results observed using nectarines. In fact, upregulation of the NRPS coding gene was also observed in minimal medium suggesting the existence of a fruit-independent mechanism of regulation for this putative toxin biosynthetic pathway that is also downregulated in the less virulent strain. These results emphasize the role of this secondary metabolism pathway during the early stage of brown rot disease development and show alternative models to study the induction of virulence genes in this fungus.

Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials in the world due to its versatility. There are different types of concrete according to the required mechanical responses, and these will depend on the composition of the elements. Therefore, additional elements have been developed to improve the properties and conditions of concrete. One of these elements is reinforcing fibers made of steel, polypropylene, glass, and so on, which, according to the base material, geometry, and dosage, improve the mechanical and workability properties and decrease and/or prevent the generation of cracks, which are some of the most common problems in industrial slabs. This study performs an analysis of the changes in the mechanical properties of concrete (compressive strength, rupture modulus, modulus of elasticity, Poisson’s ratio, and residual stress) due to the addition of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) to determine the physical and mechanical conditions of the fibers that improve the concrete and its application in industrial concrete. Due to the large number of samples and variables, advanced statistical methods (analysis of variance and comparative index) were used in the numerical study, which allowed to analyze and compare several results at the same time. This research is divided into two stages. In the first stage, six steel fibers (with a dosage of 2.7, 6, and 11 and three of 28 kg/m3) and five polypropylene fibers (with a dosage of 0.6, 2.15, and 2.7 and two of 3 kg/m3) were used in the study, and compression and bending tests (ASTM C39 and C78, respectively) were performed on 35 cylinders and 45 beams. Improvements were identified in several fiber-reinforced concrete samples in terms of compressive strength: 67% of the steel fiber samples and 100% of the polypropylene fiber samples had values above the average value of the simple concrete; in terms of the modulus of rupture, 83% of the steel fiber samples and 80% of the polypropylene fiber samples had values above the average value of the simple concrete. In the second stage, one type of steel fiber and one type of polypropylene fiber were selected for a second mechanical analysis (64 cylinders, 72 beams, and 15 slabs) with dosages of 20, 30, and 40 kg/m3 and 2.13, 4.25, and 6.38 kg/m3, respectively. In the second stage, statistical analysis and modeling with nonlinear analysis were used to evaluate the results, where residual strength improved but Poisson’s ratio decreased when the dosage of fibers was increased.

Fruits and vegetables losses and wastage have massive impacts on the economy, as they constitute about half of the 1.3 billion tons of food annually lost; on the environment, because its elimination generates 10%-12% of greenhouse gases, and on society, because one of every four calories produced is not consumed. Losses are generated during production, postharvest, and marketing periods. In developing countries, only in postharvest, losses reach between 40% and 50% depending on the product considered. Losses can be grouped into physical, biological, and physiological, and their reduction constitutes a challenge that countries are attempting to tackle through both individual and collaborative actions. For applying successful mitigation strategies, not only their quantification but also the identification of factors and occasions in which losses occur are of utmost importance. In this sense, the use of non-destructive techniques is especially useful as such techniques facilitate the detection of physical damages before they are visible or the identification of pathogens before they develop. Other aspects include the possibility of monitoring refrigeration conditions during storage and transport, identifying the occurrence of a cold chain break, and making it possible to rectify the same. In this paper, various techniques applicable to the identification and reduction of losses are reviewed.

Background: Bloodstream infections (BSIs) are the most frequent nosocomial infections in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), especially in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants (birth weight ≤ 1500 g). An epidemiologic surveillance system may contribute to the prevention of infection by continuous monitoring of its frequency and associated risk factors. The aim of this article was to describe the implementation of the NeoKissEs surveillance system for BSIs in VLBW newborns in a group of Spanish NICUs. Methods: We assessed the clinical cohort consisting of all VLBW newborns aged less than 28 days admitted to the participating units. In the pilot phase, 2 NICUs translated and adapted materials from the original German NEO-KISS system. During implementation, 210 health care professionals attended one of 8 educational workshops. A web-based system was created that allows entering data regarding patients and BSI episodes, data monitoring, benchmarking and providing feedback to the units. At each NICU, one neonatologist was responsible for the implementation of the system and reporting the difficulties perceived throughout the process. Results: Out of the 50 units that agreed to participate, 45 successfully started using the surveillance platform during the implementation phase, recording 1108 episodes of catheter-associated BSI (CABSI) in 3638 newborns, and finding an overall rate of CABSI of 18.4 (95% CI, 17.8-19.1) per 1000 catheter days. Conclusions: The NeoKissEs surveillance system constitutes a helpful source of information for the purpose of benchmarking the performance of neonatal units, assessing factors associated with BSI in VLBW infants and measuring the impact of future preventive interventions in NICUs. Resumen: Antecedentes: Las sepsis son las infecciones nosocomiales más frecuentes en las Unidades de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatales (UCIN), afectando especialmente a los recién nacidos de muy bajo peso al nacer (RNMBP, ≤ 1.500 g). Un sistema de vigilancia epidemiológica puede contribuir a su prevención mediante una evaluación continua de su frecuencia y factores de riesgo asociados. El objetivo de este artículo es describir la implementación del sistema de vigilancia de las sepsis nosocomiales en RNMBP (NeoKissEs) en un grupo de UCIN españolas. Métodos: Estudio de cohorte de RNMBP con < 28 días de edad ingresados en las UCIN participantes. Dos UCIN tradujeron y adaptaron materiales a partir del sistema original alemán NEO-KISS. Durante la implementación, se desarrollaron 8 talleres formativos, con participación de 210 profesionales. Se creó un sistema web para la introducción de datos de pacientes y episodios de sepsis, su monitorización, análisis comparativo y retroalimentación a las unidades. En cada UCIN, un neonatólogo fue responsable de la implementación, recogiendo información sobre las dificultades percibidas durante el proceso. Resultados: De 50 unidades que aceptaron participar, 45 utilizaron NeoKissEs durante la fase de implementación, registrando 1.108 episodios de sepsis asociados a catéter vascular en 3.638 neonatos, con una tasa de 18,4 episodios por 1.000 pacientes-día con catéter (IC del 95%: 17,8-19,1). Conclusiones: El sistema de vigilancia epidemiológica NeoKissEs representa una fuente útil de información para la comparación estandarizada de la incidencia de sepsis de las UCIN, evaluar factores de riesgo y facilitar la evaluación del efecto de futuras intervenciones preventivas.

A novel stochastic model is proposed to characterize the adsorption kinetics of pollutants including dyes (direct red 80 and direct blue 1), fluoride ions, and cadmium ions removed by calcium pectinate (Pec-Ca), aluminum xanthanate (Xant-Al), and reed leaves, respectively. The model is based on a transformation over time following the Ornstein–Uhlenbeck stochastic process, which explicitly includes the uncertainty involved in the adsorption process. The model includes stochastic versions of the pseudo-first-order (PFO), pseudo-second-order (PSO), and pseudo-n-order (PNO) models. It also allows the estimation of the adsorption parameters, including the maximum removal capacity (qe), the adsorption rate constant (kn), the reaction pseudoorder (n), and the variability σ2. The model fitted produced R2 values similar to those of the nonstochastic versions of the PFO, PSO, and PNO models; however, the obtained values for each parameter indicate that the stochastic model better reproduces the experimental data. The qe values of the Pec-Ca-dye, Xant-Al-fluoride, and reed leaf-Cd+2 systems ranged from 2.0 to 9.7, 0.41 to 1.9, and 0.04 and 0.29 mg/g, respectively, whereas the values of kn ranged from 0.051 to 0.286, 0.743 to 75.73, and 0.756 to 8.861 (mg/g)1-n/min, respectively. These results suggest a variability in the parameters qe and kn inherent to the natures of the adsorbate and adsorbent. The obtained n values ranged from 1.13 to 2.02 for the Pec-Ca-dye system, 1.0–3.5 for the Xant-Al-fluoride system, and 1.8–3.8 for the reed leaf-Cd+2 system. These ranges indicate the flexibility of the stochastic model to obtain fractional n values, resulting in high R2 values. The variability in each system was evaluated based on σ2. The developed model is the first to describe pollutant removal kinetics based on a stochastic differential equation.

One of the most remarkable challenges concerning global migration policies nowadays has to do with impeding the trafficking of migrant workers for the purposes of labour exploitation. This paper aims to examine whether Spain has adequately fulfilled its obligations to prevent and prosecute labour trafficking and protect trafficking victims. To do so, it offers a critical analysis of public policies concerning labour trafficking, contrasting them with case-law and data regarding its implementation in practice. Thus, the most recent available data concerning inspection, investigation and prosecution of labour trafficking cases, as well as the identification and protection of labour trafficking victims in Spain is evaluated here. The results highlight the invisibility of human trafficking victims for the purposes of labour exploitation, partly caused by the lack of measures that specifically address this form of trafficking.

Monilinia laxa is a necrotrophic plant pathogen able to infect and produce substantial losses on stone fruit. Three different isolates of M. laxa were characterized according to their aggressiveness on nectarines. M. laxa 8L isolate was the most aggressive on fruit, 33L isolate displayed intermediated virulence level, and 5L was classified as a weak aggressive isolate. Nectarine colonization process by the weak isolate 5L was strongly delayed. nLC-MS/MS proteomic studies using in vitro peach cultures provided data on exoproteomes of the three isolates at equivalent stages of brown rot colonization; 3 days for 8L and 33L, and 7 days for 5L. A total of 181 proteins were identified from 8L exoproteome and 289 proteins from 33L at 3 dpi, and 206 proteins were identified in 5L exoproteome at 7 dpi. Although an elevated number of proteins lacked a predicted function, the vast majority of proteins belong to OG group “metabolism”, composed of categories such as “carbohydrate transport and metabolism” in 5L, and “energy production and conversion” most represented in 8L and 33L. Among identified proteins, 157 that carried a signal peptide were further examined and classified. Carbohydrate-active enzymes and peptidases were the main groups revealing different protein alternatives with the same function among isolates. Our data suggested a subset of secreted proteins as possible markers of differential virulence in more aggressive isolates, MlPG1 MlPME3, NEP-like, or endoglucanase proteins. A core-exoproteome among isolates independently of their virulence but time-dependent was also described. This core included several well-known virulence factors involved in host-tissue factors like cutinase, pectin lyases, and acid proteases. The secretion patterns supported the assumption that M. laxa deploys an extensive repertoire of proteins to facilitate the host infection and colonization and provided information for further characterization of M. laxa pathogenesis.

Summary: Objectives: Show the results in pain and functionality, using low-dose radiotherapy in osteoarticular degenerative disorders (OADD). Review of the evidence. Material and methods: Patients suffering from OADD with no response to other treatments, receive 6Gy in 6 fractions of 1 Gy, each other day, repeating the scheme if necessary. Evaluation of pain based on Visual Analogic Scale, analgesia intake and VonPannewitz score. Results: Results observed in our series of patients treated with low doses of radiotherapy are similar to those previously published and reinforce the consideration of radiotherapy as an useful option for degenerative musculoskeletal disorders. Conclusion: Low dose radiotherapy seems to be a good alternative for aged patients suffering from OADD.

Human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) obtained from aged patients are prone to senesce and diminish their differentiation potential, therefore limiting their usefulness for osteochondral regenerative medicine approaches or to study age-related diseases, such as osteoarthiritis (OA). MSCs can be transduced with immortalizing genes to overcome this limitation, but transduction of primary slow-dividing cells has proven to be challenging. Methods for enhancing transduction efficiency (such as spinoculation, chemical adjuvants, or transgene expression inductors) can be used, but several parameters must be adapted for each transduction system. In order to develop a transduction method suitable for the immortalization of MSCs from aged donors, we used a spinoculation method. Incubation parameters of packaging cells, speed and time of centrifugation, and valproic acid concentration to induce transgene expression have been adjusted. In this way, four immortalized MSC lines (iMSC#6, iMSC#8, iMSC#9, and iMSC#10) were generated. These immortalized MSCs (iMSCs) were capable of bypassing senescence and proliferating at a higher rate than primary MSCs. Characterization of iMSCs showed that these cells kept the expression of mesenchymal surface markers and were able to differentiate towards osteoblasts, adipocytes, and chondrocytes. Nevertheless, alterations in the CD105 expression and a switch of cell fate-commitment towards the osteogenic lineage have been noticed. In conclusion, the developed transduction method is suitable for the immortalization of MSCs derived from aged donors. The generated iMSC lines maintain essential mesenchymal features and are expected to be useful tools for the bone and cartilage regenerative medicine research.

Resumen: Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de un protocolo de cribado y tratamiento del bajo flujo sistémico (BFS) durante el periodo transicional en la aparición de hemorragia intraventricular (HIV) grave y/o muerte en prematuros. Métodos: Estudio cuasi-experimental con controles retrospectivos. En la fase de intervención se incluyeron los prematuros de menos de 30 semanas de edad gestacional (enero 2016-julio 2017). Los controles (enero de 2013-diciembre de 2015) fueron pareados por edad gestacional, peso al nacimiento y sexo con una relación 1:2. Los casos diagnosticados de BFS por ecocardiografía funcional durante el protocolo recibieron tratamiento con dobutamina (DB) entre 5-10 μg/kg/min durante 48 h. Resultados: Se incluyeron 29 casos en la fase de intervención (aplicación del protocolo) y 54 controles (fase preintervención). Diez de 29 (34,5%) casos durante el protocolo recibieron DB por BFS con 3/29 (10,3%) casos de HIV grave y/o muerte comparado con 17/54 (31,5%) en la fase pre-protocolo (p = 0,032). El protocolo se asoció de forma independiente a una reducción en la HIV grave y/o muerte tanto en la regresión logística (OR: 0,11 [IC 95%: 0,01-0,65], p = 0,015] como en el análisis de ponderación por la probabilidad inversa de tratamiento (OR: 0,23 [IC 95%: 0,09-0,56]; p = 0,001]. Conclusiones: En un estudio con controles retrospectivos, la aplicación de un protocolo de cribado y tratamiento del BFS en prematuros se asoció a una reducción en la HIV grave y/o muerte. Son necesarios ensayos clínicos de suficiente potencia para determinar si las intervenciones posnatales sobre el BFS pueden mejorar el pronóstico neurológico. Abstract: Objective: To assess the effect of a protocolised intervention for low systemic blood flow (SBF) in the occurrence of severe intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) or death in pre-term infants. Methods: A study with a quasi-experimental design with retrospective controls was conducted on pre-term infants of less than 30 weeks of gestational age, born between January 2016 and July 2017, who were consecutively included in the intervention period. The control cohort included pre-term infants (born between January 2013 and December 2015) matched by gestational age, birth weight, and gender (two controls for each case). The cases of low SBF diagnosed according to functional echocardiography during the study period received dobutamine (5-10 μg/kg/min) for 48 hours. Results: The study included 29 cases (intervention period) and 54 controls (pre-intervention period). Ten out of 29 (34.5%) infants received dobutamine for low SBF during the intervention period, with 3/29 (10.3%) cases of severe IVH and/or death compared to 17/54 (31.5%) in the control cohort (p = .032). There was an independent association between the intervention and a decreased occurrence of severe IVH/death after adjusting for confounding factors both in the logistic regression model [OR 0.11 (95% CI: 0.01-0.65), p = .015], as well as in the sensitivity analysis using inverse probability of treatment weighting [OR 0.23 (95% CI: 0.09-0.56); p = .001]. Conclusions: In this study with retrospective controls, a protocolised screening, and treatment for low SBF was associated with a decreased occurrence of severe IVH or death in preterm infants. Large, adequately powered trials, are needed in order to determine whether postnatal interventions directed at low SBF can improve neurological outcomes.

Objective: To assess the effect of a protocolised intervention for low systemic blood flow (SBF) in the occurrence of severe intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) or death in pre-term infants. Methods: A study with a quasi-experimental design with retrospective controls was conducted on pre-term infants of less than 30 weeks of gestational age, born between January 2016 and July 2017, who were consecutively included in the intervention period. The control cohort included pre-term infants (born between January 2013 and December 2015) matched by gestational age, birth weight, and gender (two controls for each case). The cases of low SBF diagnosed according to functional echocardiography during the study period received dobutamine (5–10 μg/kg/min) for 48 h. Results: The study included 29 cases (intervention period) and 54 controls (pre-intervention period). Ten out of 29 (34.5%) infants received dobutamine for low SBF during the intervention period, with 3/29 (10.3%) cases of severe IVH and/or death compared to 17/54 (31.5%) in the control cohort (P = .032). There was an independent association between the intervention and a decreased occurrence of severe IVH/death after adjusting for confounding factors both in the logistic regression model [OR 0.11 (95% CI: 0.01–0.65), P = .015], as well as in the sensitivity analysis using inverse probability of treatment weighting [OR 0.23 (95% CI: 0.09–0.56); P = .001]. Conclusions: In this study with retrospective controls, a protocolised screening, and treatment for low SBF was associated with a decreased occurrence of severe IVH or death in preterm infants. Large, adequately powered trials, are needed in order to determine whether postnatal interventions directed at low SBF can improve neurological outcomes. Resumen: Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de un protocolo de cribado y tratamiento del bajo flujo sistémico (BFS) durante el periodo transicional en la aparición de hemorragia intraventricular (HIV) grave y/o muerte en prematuros. Métodos: Estudio cuasi-experimental con controles retrospectivos. En la fase de intervención se incluyeron los prematuros de menos de 30 semanas de edad gestacional (enero 2016-julio 2017). Los controles (enero de 2013-diciembre de 2015) fueron pareados por edad gestacional, peso al nacimiento y sexo con una relación 1:2. Los casos diagnosticados de BFS por ecocardiografía funcional durante el protocolo recibieron tratamiento con dobutamina (DB) entre 5-10 μg/kg/min durante 48 h. Resultados: Se incluyeron 29 casos en la fase de intervención (aplicación del protocolo) y 54 controles (fase preintervención). Diez de 29 (34,5%) casos durante el protocolo recibieron DB por BFS con 3/29 (10,3%) casos de HIV grave y/o muerte comparado con 17/54 (31,5%) en la fase pre-protocolo (p = 0,032). El protocolo se asoció de forma independiente a una reducción en la HIV grave y/o muerte tanto en la regresión logística (OR: 0,11 [IC 95%: 0,01-0,65], p = 0,015] como en el análisis de ponderación por la probabilidad inversa de tratamiento (OR: 0,23 [IC 95%: 0,09-0,56]; p = 0,001]. Conclusiones: En un estudio con controles retrospectivos, la aplicación de un protocolo de cribado y tratamiento del BFS en prematuros se asoció a una reducción en la HIV grave y/o muerte. Son necesarios ensayos clínicos de suficiente potencia para determinar si las intervenciones posnatales sobre el BFS pueden mejorar el pronóstico neurológico.

The politics of dis/appearance concern a wide variety of complex issues. Engaging with historical processes and the different categorizations of (dis)appearance that they have engendered, we identify, in this article, two key analytical approaches: First, we consider the meaning of appearance and disappearance within the liberal political theory. More specifically, we consider how different political regimes have related to the individual-citizen and the public space. Second, we reflect on the inputs and shortcoming of the studies in biopolitics, their understanding of disappearance as part of the politics of life and their different historical manifestations. Third, we consider a possible approach to understanding what we have termed as ‘social disappearance’. Finally, after drafting a typology of disappearance, the article ends with some reflections on how we can approach the historicity of disappearance and with several research questions concerning contemporary devices (dispositif) or apparatus of disappearance and appearance.

In recent years, the engagement of corporations in child trafficking has become a matter of growing importance. Many corporations have adopted global subcontracting systems and complex structures that boost their productivity and profits, but might also create more opportunities for trafficking and exploitation of both adults and children. Taking this context into account, the ways in which corporations can commit child trafficking will be explored and exemplified to highlight their diversity. This paper also offers a brief overview of the response given by international and European anti-trafficking instruments concerning corporate criminal liability for child trafficking. Moreover, the mechanisms adopted by some companies to prevent trafficking and promote transparency within their supply chains will also be addressed. Overall, this paper aims to illustrate the pivotal role of corporations from two perspectives: as potential perpetrators of this serious crime, and as necessary actors to prevent it. El compromiso empresarial sobre el tráfico infantil es un asunto de creciente importancia. Muchas corporaciones han adoptado sistemas globales de subcontrataciones y complejas estructuras que incrementan su productividad y sus beneficios, pero que también podrían crear más oportunidades para la trata y la explotación de adultos y niños. Partiendo de este contexto, se exploran y ejemplifican las diversas formas en que las corporaciones pueden cometer tráfico infantil. El artículo repasa brevemente la respuesta de los instrumentos internacionales y europeos en lo tocante a la responsabilidad penal de las corporaciones por la trata infantil, y aborda los mecanismos adoptados por algunas empresas para prevenir la trata y promover la transparencia en sus cadenas de suministro. En suma, se pretende ilustrar el rol crucial de las corporaciones desde dos puntos de vista: como potenciales perpetradores de este grave crimen y como actores necesarios para prevenirlo.DOWNLOAD THIS PAPER FROM SSRN: http://ssrn.com/abstract=3098015

Absence is a common topic in the literature that analyzes forced disappearances and the disappeared. This is understandable because approaches from this concept have brought about remarkable insights. However, as it usually happens when something is naturalized, the concept’s content and its derivations have lost centrality and we find it hard to tell what’s the meaning of this concept. In an endeavor to develop a rigorous definition of ‘social disappearance’, this article looks back at the concept, focuses on its dominant uses and, above all, searches for ways to fill it with content. The present work moves forward with the renovation of this notion.

Although corruption is often mentioned as a key factor in human trafficking, so far only a few studies have challenged the lack of data available in this field to dig into the relationship between these interrelated crimes. This paper carries out an analysis of real cases of trafficking-related corruption in Europe, which had been reported in academic sources as well as various institutional documents, in order to offer an overview of the various patterns of this phenomenon. This analysis shows that corruption can reach public officials in different positions, be used in every stage of the trafficking process, and in every kind of exploitation. Subsequently, the paper briefly examines the main legislative and institutional measures for combatting this specific form of criminality at the international and European level. It is important to highlight the role of the Programme against Corruption and Organised Crime in South-eastern Europe (PACO), created by the Council of Europe, pioneered the elaboration of proposals to address this specific problem. Overall, both the analysis of the patterns of public officials’ involvement in human trafficking as well as the response to this crime serve as a basis to consider the convenience of approaching trafficking-related corruption as a challenge to security.

Our study shows how students make sense of a teaching innovative experience at university, which develops the teaching-learning process based on social constructionism (Gergen, 2015). Their judgements were analysed from the emic perspective (San Martín, 2014), using ATLAS.ti7 software for qualitative analysis. Students (26) express that they have lived through an unusual educational experience, being flexibility its main quality, a finding congruent with pedagogical proposals linked to the co-construction of knowledge. The meanings given by students revalue face-to- face education, as the classroom turns into the arena where unusual learning and a boom of ideas can take place, highlighting its usefulness as a relational space which nourishes collaborative creativity. Challenges also emerge and invite for further reflection on how to keep designing innovative education proposals at universities from the perspective of relational generation of knowledge.

The article starts from the assumption that the slow and unsatisfactory development of case-law concerning racism in Europe needs to be addressed engaging with wider political and policy developments that have shaped the silence about race and racism. I propose an analysis of political texts, reports and academic literature, developed since the mid-1980s, that approached the discussion and negotiation of legal provisions that prohibit racial discrimination. The analysis aims to unravel the reproduction of the mythical foundation of modern law that erases coloniality and institutional racism that is, it erases the embeddedness of race in the formation of the West. In this context, racism is seen as an exteriority and a deviation and therefore, policy and legal provisions remain largely unscrutinised in their complicity with the reproduction of racism. El artículo parte del presupuesto de que el lento e insatisfactorio desarrollo de jurisprudencia relativa al racismo en Europa debe abordarse en diálogo con procesos políticos más amplios que han moldeado el silencio sobre la raza y el racismo. Propongo un análisis de textos e informes de carácter político y de literatura académica, desarrollados desde mediados de los años 80, que consideraron el debate y la negociación de provisiones jurídicas que prohibieran la discriminación racial. El análisis tiene como objeto desentrañar la reproducción de la fundación mítica del derecho moderno como narrativa que borra la colonialidad y el racismo institucional, esto es, borra lo racial como constitutivo de la formación de Occidente. En este contexto, el racismo se ve como una externalidad y una desviación y, por tanto, la complicidad de las provisiones políticas y jurídicas con la reproducción del racismo permanece, en gran medida, sin examinar. Available from: https://doi.org/10.35295/osls.iisl/0000-0000-0000-0974 Note: This article has been updated on 13 December 2022 to correct citations to “Sayyid 2004” on pages 854 and 855. The document cited is EP 1986. This mistake was generated during the production stage.

Introducción: Bradysia impatiens causa pérdidas significativas en viveros e invernaderos de México. Objetivo: El efecto insecticida e insectistático de Beauveria bassiana se evaluó sobre B. impatiens. Materiales y métodos: El efecto insecticida e insectistático de conidios (10 7 conidios·mL -1 ), enzimas (10 000 ppm), metabolitos (10 000 ppm) y extracto crudo de B. bassiana se evaluó a los 8 y 20 días. Los datos de mortalidad corregida de larvas y pupas de B. impatiens y emergencia relativa de adultos, transformados con la función arcoseno, se sometieron a un análisis de varianza y comparación de medias de Tukey ( P < 0.05). Resultados y discusión: En el día 8, los conidios tuvieron la mayor actividad insecticida con 31.1 % de mortalidad corregida, mientras que la actividad de las enzimas fue nula. A los 20 días, los tratamientos de metabolitos y conidios tuvieron el mayor efecto en la mortalidad, 47.5 y 42.1 %, respectivamente. Dichos tratamientos tuvieron la mayor actividad insectistática. La emergencia de adultos a los 20 días fue menor con los conidios (6 %), mientras que con las enzimas fue de 100 %. Los metabolitos provocaron que 65 % de los adultos mostraran malformaciones. Conclusión: Los metabolitos y conidios de B. bassiana podrían emplearse para el control de larvas y pupas de B. impatiens.

The increase in the number of drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA) cases in recent years has become a major concern. Consequently, there is a need to develop methods for the real-time detection of these substances. We report herein a colorimetric chemosensor for the real-time in situ detection of the “date rape” drug GHB. The sensor is based on gold nanoparticles functionalized with both a 2-aminonaphthoxazole and phenanthroline derivative. Its ability to act as “naked-eye” colorimetric sensor for the detection of the drug in soft drinks and alcoholic beverages was studied. The detection process is based on the double recognition of both the hydroxyl and the carboxylate groups present in GHB, which triggers the aggregation of the AuNPs, with the resulting change in the color of the solution.

Light represents a ubiquitous source of information for organisms to evaluate their environment. The influence of light on colony growth and conidiation was determined for three Monilinia laxa isolates. The highest mycelial growth rate was observed under red light for the three M. laxa isolates, followed by green light, daylight or darkness. However, reduced sporulation levels were observed in darkness and red light, but conidiation enhancement was found under daylight, black and green light with more hours of exposure to light. Putative photoreceptors for blue (white-collar and cryptochromes), green (opsins), and red light (phytochromes) were identified, and the photoresponse-related regulatory family of velvet proteins. A unique ortholog for each photoreceptor was found, and their respective domain architecture was highly conserved. Transcriptional analyses of uncovered sets of genes were performed under daylight or specific color light, and both in time course illumination, finding light-dependent triggered gene expression of MlVEL2, MlPHY2, MlOPS2, and MlCRY2, and color light as a positive inductor of MlVEL3, MlVEL4, MlPHY1, and MlCRY1 expression. M. laxa has a highly conserved set of photoreceptors with other light-responsive fungi. Our phenotypic analyses and the existence of this light-sensing machinery suggest transcriptional regulatory systems dedicated to modulating the development and dispersion of this pathogen.

Purpose : To study outcome and toxicity in 59 patients with locally advanced cervix carcinoma treated with computed tomography (CT)-based Martinez universal perineal interstitial template (MUPIT) and the new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-compatible template Benidorm (TB). Material and methods: From December 2005 to October 2015, we retrospectively analyzed 34 patients treated with MUPIT and 25 treated with the TB. Six 4 Gy fractions were prescribed to the clinical target volume (CTV) combined with external beam radiotherapy (EBRT). The organs at risk (OARs) and the CTV were delineated by CT scan in the MUPIT implants and by MRI in the TB implants. Dosimetry was CT-based for MUPIT and exclusively MRI-based for TB. Dose values were biologically normalized to equivalent doses in 2 Gy fractions (EQD2). Results : Median CTV volumes were 163.5 cm3 for CT-based MUPIT (range 81.8-329.4 cm3) and 91.9 cm3 for MRI-based TB (range 26.2-161 cm3). Median D90 CTV (EBRT + BT) was 75.8 Gy for CT-based MUPIT (range 69-82 Gy) and 78.6 Gy for MRI-based TB (range 62.5-84.2). Median D2cm3 for the rectum was 75.3 Gy for CT-based MUPIT (range 69.8-132.1 Gy) and 69.9 Gy for MRI-based TB (range 58.3-83.7 Gy). Median D2cm3 for the bladder was 79.8 Gy for CT-based MUPIT (range 71.2-121.1 Gy) and 77.1 Gy for MRI-based TB (range 60.5-90.8 Gy). Local control (LC) was 88%. Overall survival (OS), disease free survival (DFS), and LC were not statistically significant in either group. Patients treated with CT-based MUPIT had a significantly higher percentage of rectal bleeding G3 (p = 0.040) than those treated with MRI-based TB, 13% vs. 2%. Conclusions : Template Benidorm treatment using MRI-based dosimetry provides advantages of MRI volume definition, and allows definition of smaller volumes that result in statistically significant decreased rectal toxicity compared to that seen with CT-based MUPIT treatment.

Purpose : Esteya and Valencia surface applicators are designed to treat skin tumors using brachytherapy. In clinical practice, in order to avoid errors that may affect the treatment outcome, there are two issues that need to be carefully addressed. First, the selected applicator for the treatment should provide adequate margin for the target, and second, the applicator has to be precisely positioned before each treatment fraction. In this work, we describe the development and use of a new acrylic templates named Template La Fe-ITIC. They have been designed specifically to help the clinical user in the selection of the correct applicator, and to assist the medical staff in reproducing the positioning of the applicator. These templates are freely available upon request. Material and methods: Templates that were developed by University and Polytechnic Hospital La Fe (La Fe) and Hospital Clínica Benidorm (ITIC) in cooperation with Elekta, consist of a thin sheet made of transparent acrylic. For each applicator, a crosshair and two different circles are drawn on these templates: the inner one corresponds to the useful beam, while the outer one represents the external perimeter of the applicator. The outer circle contains slits that facilitate to draw a circle on the skin of the patient for exact positioning of the applicator. In addition, there are two perpendicular rulers to define the adequate margin. For each applicator size, a specific template was developed. Results: The templates have been used successfully in our institutions for more than 50 patients’ brachytherapy treatments. They are currently being used for Esteya and Valencia applicators. Conclusions : The template La Fe-ITIC is simple and practical. It improves both the set-up time and reproducibility. It helps to establish the adequate margins, an essential point in the clinical outcome.

La imposibilidad de almacenar la energía eléctrica hace de la predicción una herramienta indispensable a la hora de gestionar eficientemente su producción. La modelización de la demanda de energía eléctrica permite al ente productor contar con un conocimiento más refinado de los mercados y de los usuarios del sistema, así como con una mejor posición mediante la reducción de la incertidumbre en la toma de decisiones. El objetivo de este trabajo consiste en la elaboración de un sistema de predicción para el corto plazo, basado en modelos horarios articulados con los modelos diarios de predicción. Con ese objeto se estiman y evalúan dos propuestas metodológicas para la predicción de la demanda horaria. Por un lado la propuesta base para la comparación consiste en la estimación de un modelo univariante ARIMA-IA para una única serie horaria encadenada que incorpora los efectos de los días especiales, eventos atípicos y un componente SARIMA. Por otro lado se estiman 24 modelos, uno para cada hora del día. Se evalúa la performance predictiva individual de los modelos y se compara el desempeño de ambas alternativas. Finalmente, se compara el desempeño predictivo a un día de estos modelos y se contrasta con los resultados del modelo diario.

Spontaneous, partial and transient remission of type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a period that requires minor doses of exogenous insulin and lasts a few months. We present an 18-year-old girl, diagnosed at 12 years with T1D, with spontaneous and partial remission of T1D sustained for more than 6 years. Keywords: Type 1 diabetes, Remission, Autoimmunity, Honeymoon

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic led to the implementation of home quarantine in many countries to prevent the spread of the virus. Since people with diabetes had to stay in their homes, mood and psychological changes related to isolation may occur. Objectives: To evaluate the psychological impact of quarantine through the determination of anxiety and stress degrees, in adults with T1D and T2D. To assess the association of the questionaries scores obtained with other independent covariates. Material and Methods: Multi-center, cross-sectional observational study. Data collection through online survey, from April 1st to May 3rd, 2020. The degree of stress was evaluated by the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and the degree of anxiety by the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Statistical analysis: Descriptive statistics and hypothesis confrontation tests, multiple linear regression, chi2 and Spearman's correlation coefficient. Any value of p

Intelligent automation, including robotics, is one of the current trends in the manufacturing industry in the context of “Industry 4.0”, where cyber-physical systems control the production at automated or semi-automated factories. Robots are perfect substitutes for a skilled workforce for some repeatable, general, and strategically-important tasks. However, this transformation is not always feasible and immediate, since certain technologies do not provide the required degree of flexibility. The introduction of collaborative robots in the industry permits the combination of the advantages of manual and automated production. In some processes, it is necessary to incorporate robots from different manufacturers, thus the design of these multi-robot systems is crucial to guarantee the maximum quality and efficiency. In this context, this paper presents a novel methodology for process automation design, enhanced implementation, and real-time monitoring in operation based on creating a digital twin of the manufacturing process with an immersive virtual reality interface to be used as a virtual testbed before the physical implementation. Moreover, it can be efficiently used for operator training, real-time monitoring, and feasibility studies of future optimizations. It has been validated in a use case which provides a solution for an assembly manufacturing process.

Se aborda la elaboración de un sistema de predicción para el corto plazo, basado en modelos horarios articulados con los modelos diarios de predicción. Con ese objeto se estiman y evalúan dos propuestas metodológicas para la predicción de la demanda horaria. Por un lado la propuesta base para la comparación consiste en la estimación de un modelo univariante ARIMA-IA para una única serie horaria encadenada que incorpora los efectos de los días especiales, eventos atípicos y un componente SARIMA. Por otro lado se estiman 24 modelos, uno para cada hora deldía. Se evalúa la performance predictiva individual de los modelos y se compara el desempeño de ambas alternativas. Finalmente, se compara el desempeño predictivo a un día de estos modelos y se contrasta con los resultados del modelo diario.

Partiendo del trabajo de Alfonso Pérez-Agote sobre la formación y “crisis” del “presupuesto de lahomogeneidad” de las sociedades occidentales modernas, este texto interroga los límites de las cienciassociales y más concretamente de la sociología dominante para interpretar esta “crisis” y el cambio socialal que está asociada. Más específicamente, cuestiona el lugar que la categoría raza ha tenido en lasociología, como una perspectiva analítica crucial a la hora problematizar las narrativas hegemónicassobre la modernidad, la formación del Estado-Nación y la construcción de la idea de Europa. Seargumenta que la comprensión de las llamadas “crisis del multiculturalismo” o “crisis de la integración dela inmigración” en la actualidad, requiere otorgar centralidad a la renovación del contrato racial como laingeniería política de la pertenencia a la europeidad.

Por: María L. Bournissent, Aníbal Chícco y Silvia Rodríguez