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Abstract Spintronic sensors are uniquely positioned to deliver the next generation of high-performance magnetic field measurement tools with re-configurable key features. In this perspective article, we focus on giant and tunnel magnetoresistance sensors that exploit changes in the electrical resistance of thin films in response to an external magnetic field. We discuss strategies to address ongoing open challenges to improve operation limits. The goal is to meet current technological needs and thus expand the scope of existing applications. We also propose innovative approaches to design sensors with adaptable characteristics and embedded multifunctionality, aiming to create opportunities for future magnetic sensing applications. These solutions leverage the versatility of spintronic sensors, from the thin-film multilayers that form their building blocks, to device fabrication methods and potential integration with other technologies. The outlook of novel applications spans multiple areas, including electric vehicles, robotics, remote detection, or biomedicine.

IntroductionFish nucleated red blood cells (RBCs), also known as erythrocytes, play a crucial role in maintaining immune system balance by modulating protein expression in response to various stimuli, including viral attack. This study explores the intriguing behavior of rainbow trout RBCs when faced with the viral hemorrhagic septicemia virus (VHSV), focusing on the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the unfolded protein response (UPR).MethodsRainbow trout RBCs were Ficoll-purified and exposed to ultraviolet (UV)-inactivated VHSV or live VHSV at different multiplicities of infection (MOIs). Using cryo-soft X-ray tomography (cryo-SXT), we uncovered structural and cellular modifications in RBCs exposed to UV-inactivated VHSV. Moreover, RBCs were treated with 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA), an ER stress inhibitor, to investigate its effect on viral replication. Quantitative real-time PCR was also used to analyze the expression of genes related to the UPR and other related cellular pathways.Results and discussionBeyond their antiviral response, RBCs undergo notable intracellular changes to combat the virus. Cryo-SXT highlighted a significant increase in the ER volume. This increase is associated with ER stress and the activation of the UPR pathway. Interestingly, VHSV replication levels augmented in RBCs under ER-stress inhibition by 4-PBA treatment, suggesting that rainbow trout RBCs tune up ER stress to control viral replication. Therefore, our findings suggested the induction of ER stress and subsequent activation UPR signaling in the antiviral response of RBCs to VHSV. The results open a new line of investigation to uncover additional mechanisms that may become novel cellular targets for the development of RBC-targeted antiviral strategies.

Objective Non-pharmacological interventions support patients with connective tissue diseases to better cope with and self-manage their diseases. This study aimed to map existing evidence on non-pharmacological interventions in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis (SSc) and mixed connective tissue diseases regarding content, feasibility and potential suitability in an e-health setting.Methods A literature search was performed in eight different databases in July 2020. The intervention’s content was extracted using the ‘Better reporting of interventions: template for intervention description and replication (TIDieR) checklist and guide’. A Sankey diagram and descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data and illustrate the relationships between the interventions.Results Of 8198 identified records, 119 papers were eligible. One hundred and four of them (87.4%) were conducted between 2000 and 2020, mainly in the USA (SLE n=24 (21.2%), SSc n=16 (14.2%)), Brazil (SLE n=8 (7.1%), SSc n=5 (4.4%)) and Italy (SLE n=0 (0%), SSc n=12 (10.6%)). Fifty-two studies (SLE n=24 (21.2%), SSc n=28 (24.8%)) used multicomponent interventions. The single interventions were physical exercises (SLE n=16 (14.2%), SSc n=17 (15.0%)), coaching/counselling (SLE n=11 (18.0%), SSc n=0 (0%)) and education (SLE n=2 (1.8%), SSc n=3 (2.7%)). Primary outcomes focused on physical function (SLE n=1 (0.9%), SSc n=15 (13.3%)), mouth opening in SSc (n=4 (5.9%)) and physical capacity (SLE n=2 (1.8%), SSc n=1 (0.9%)). No interventions for mixed connective tissue disease were found.Conclusion There was a great variety in the intervention’s content due to differences in body structure, activity limitations and participation restrictions in SLE and SSc. These results highlight the need for personalised, multicomponent, non-pharmacological interventions, which could be delivered as e-health interventions.

The effect of cobalt doping on the magnetic properties of Mn1−xCoxFe2O4 nanoparticles was investigated. All samples consist of ensembles of nanoparticles with a spherical shape and average diameter of about 10 nm, showing small structural changes due to the substitution. Besides having the same morpho-structural properties, the effect of the chemical composition, i.e., the amount of Co doping, produces marked differences on the magnetic properties, especially on the magnetic anisotropy, with evident large changes in the coercive field. Moreover, Co substitution has a profound effect on the interparticle interactions, too. A dipolar-based interaction regime is detected for all samples; in addition, the intensity of the interactions shows a possible relation with the single particle anisotropy. Finally, the sample with the strongest interaction regime shows a superspin glass state confirmed by memory effect dynamics.

Objective: In Spain, responsibility for care of old people and those in situations of dependency is assumed by families, and has an unequal social distribution according to gender and socioeconomic level. This responsibility has negative health effects on the carer. In 2006, the Dependency Law recognised the obligation of the State to provide support. This study analyses time trends in health inequalities attributable to caregiving under this new law. Methods: Study of trends using two cross-sectional samples from the 2006 and 2012 editions of the Spanish National Health Survey (27,922 and 19,995 people, respectively). We compared fair/poor self-rated health, poor mental health (GHQ-12 >2), back pain, and the use of psychotropic drugs between non-carers, carers sharing care with other persons, and those providing care alone. We obtain prevalence ratios by fitting robust Poisson regression models. Results: We observed no change in the social profile of carers according to gender or social class. Among women, the difference in all health indicators between carers and non-carers tended to decrease among those sharing care but not among lone carers. Inequalities tend to decrease slightly in both groups of men carers. Conclusions: Between 2006 and 2012, trends in health inequalities attributable to informal care show different trends according to gender and share of responsibility. It is necessary to redesign and implement policies to reduce inequalities that take into account the most affected groups, such as women lone carers. Policies that strengthen the fair social distribution of care should also be adopted.

Microalgae are a promising source for proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates for the food/feed and biofuel industry. To make microalgae production economically feasible, it is necessary to optimally use all produced compounds keeping full functionality. Therefore, biorefining of microalgae is the key to lower the cost of algal products using mild and effective processing techniques. In this article, we have tested the feasibility of aqueous solutions of imidazolium and phosponium ionic liquids to selectively milk the hydrophobic lipids from Neochloris oleoabundans biomass out of intact cells and recover after cell disruption the hydrophilic fraction containing proteins and carbohydrates. The results showed that the ionic liquid tributylmethylphosphonium methylsulfate (TBP SO4; Cyphos 108) is able to permeabilize fresh intact cells of N. oleoabundans for extracting 68% of total lipids out of the cells, whereas, after cell disruption, 80% of total proteins, and 77% of total carbohydrates could be obtained in aqueous buffers. This concept kept the recovered proteins in their native form without interacting with the ionic liquids that will denature the proteins. Selective biorefinery of different components from microalgae using ionic liquid TBP SO4 explains the novelty of this concept.

The urgency for the availability of new antibacterial/disinfectant agents has become a worldwide priority. At the same time, along with the extensive use of other metal nanoparticles (NPs), the investigation of magnetic NPs (MNPs) in antibacterial studies has turned out to be an increasingly attractive research field. In this context, we present the preparation and characterization of superparamagnetic iron oxide NPs, electrodecorated with antimicrobial copper NPs, able to modulate the release of bioactive species not only by the NP’s stabilizer, but also through the application of a suitable magnetic field. Antimicrobial synergistic CuNPs stabilized by benzalkonium chloride have been used in the current study. We demonstrate the successful preparation of Cu@Fe3O4 MNPs composites through morphological and spectroscopic results. Additionally, an extensive magnetic characterization is reported, along with hyperthermia-induced copper ionic release. On the basis of our results, we propose a new generation of antimicrobial magnetic nanomaterials, whose bioactivity can be also tuned by the application of a magnetic field.

Objetivo: Interpretar desde la perspectiva narrativa aquellas estrategias que favorecen la emergencia de comportamientos potencialmente generativos por parte del profesorado, contribuyendo a la sistematización de nuevas formas de comprensión del quehacer profesional docente rural chileno. Método: se adopta un enfoque interpretativo cualitativo, siguiendo un diseño descriptivo, exploratorio y transversal. La muestra es de carácter intencional, conformada por 12 educadores quienes 33 años de experiencia en escuelas rurales presentes en las Regiones Metropolitana, La Araucanía y los Ríos (Chile). Para la interpretación de los datos, se recurre al análisis de contenido, siguiendo la lógica de la Teoría Fundamentada y las Entrevistas en Profundidad desde la perspectiva narrativa generativa. Resultados: Las estrategias que favorecen el despliegue de comportamientos generativos son el sentido de vida y la espiritualidad, expresándose en la autonomía, flexibilidad y una alta implicación pedagógica frente a su quehacer profesional, además de un alto sentido de autoeficacia en su tarea educativa. Finalmente, el profesorado devela un sentido de vida generativo en el que confluyen metas y proyectos personales desafiantes que contribuyen al desarrollo de las comunidades en las que se desenvuelven cotidianamente, configurando un legado educativo que trasciende en el tiempo.

A phrase like „Parliament decisions on its own behalf“ has not been codified in Spanish legal and political discourse. Nevertheless, it is acknowledged that there are certain issues where political parties within parliament possess distinct interests that may influence their legislative choices. To counter the potential hazards involved, various elements have demonstrated varying degrees of efficiency in ensuring that decision are being made for the common good, despite the influence of party-specific concerns.

Scientific research has provided theoretical evidence on the implementation of religious/spiritual interventions (RSI) as a complementary health therapy, where spiritual improvements are also a factor to consider. Despite the above, there are few studies that have evaluated the clinical applicability of these findings. This study was an intervention with older and younger adults divided into two treatment groups and one control group. What is expected is that the two treatment groups will score better than the control group; however, the group with a Christian spiritual focus is expected to perform better than the group without a spiritual focus. Measures of gratitude, meaning of life, forgiveness, spirituality, religiosity, and expected prejudice were recorded. The hypothesis is fulfilled that Christian spirituality enhances psychological interventions on factors associated with personal well-being, mainly in older adults: spirituality (M = 26.00, SE = 2.127/M = 29.38, SE = 1.953, t (12) = −2.436, p < 0.05, r = 0.58), goals (M = 22.92, SE = 1.022/M = 24.54, SE = 0.739, t (12) = −2.298, p < 0.05, r = 0.55), and benevolence (M = 17.31, SE = 1.554/M = 21.08, SE = 1.603, t (12) = −3.310, p < 0.05, r = 0.69). The most powerful results of the study are those associated with religiosity/spirituality.

We demonstrate how resonant planar coils may be used as sensors to detect and quantify magnetic nanoparticles reliably. A coil’s resonant frequency depends on the adjacent materials’ magnetic permeability and electric permittivity. A small number of nanoparticles dispersed on a supporting matrix on top of a planar coil circuit may thus be quantified. Such nanoparticle detection has application detection to create new devices to assess biomedicine, food quality assurance, and environmental control challenges. We developed a mathematical model for the inductive sensor response at radio frequencies to obtain the nanoparticles’ mass from the self-resonance frequency of the coil. In the model, the calibration parameters only depend on the refraction index of the material around the coil, not on the separate magnetic permeability and electric permittivity. The model compares favourably with three-dimensional electromagnetic simulations and independent experimental measurements. The sensor can be scaled and automated in portable devices to measure small quantities of nanoparticles at a low cost. The resonant sensor combined with the mathematical model is a significant improvement over simple inductive sensors, which operate at smaller frequencies and do not have the required sensitivity, and oscillator-based inductive sensors, which focus on just magnetic permeability.

From the nano-world to solar systems length-scales span over several orders of magnitude. In young student it is therefore hard to fully understand the relative proportions among different objects even belonging to the same level of complexity. Resizing to human-related distances is an effective way to understand the relative distances in astronomic scales or the amount of information contained in a single cell. In general, the use of imagination is essential in educational research as well as the use of different skills in interdisciplinary works. Some appealing example will be given and the result of a pilot learning by doing teaching pathway involving hundreds of young students will be presented. Clues will give indications for future directions in educational research.

Lateral flow immunoassays for detecting biomarkers in body fluids are simple, quick, inexpensive point-of-care tests widely used in disease surveillance, such as during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Improvements in sensitivity would increase their utility in healthcare, food safety, and environmental control. Recently, biofunctional magnetic nanoclusters have been used to selectively label target proteins, which allows their detection and quantification with a magneto-inductive sensor. This type of detector is easily integrated with the lateral flow immunoassay format. Pneumolysin is a cholesterol-dependent cytolysin and one of the most important protein virulence factors of pneumonia produced by Streptococcus pneumoniae. It is recognized as an important biomarker for diagnosis in urine samples. Pneumonia is the infectious disease that causes the most deaths globally, especially among children under five years and adults over 65 years, most of them in low- and middle-income countries. There especially, a rapid diagnostic urine test for pneumococcal pneumonia with high sensitivity and specificity would be helpful in primary care. In this work, a lateral flow immunoassay with magnetic nanoclusters conjugated to anti-pneumolysin antibodies was combined with two strategies to increase the technique’s performance. First, magnetic concentration of the protein before the immunoassay was followed by quantification by means of a mobile telephone camera, and the inductive sensor resulted in detection limits as low as 0.57 ng (telephone camera) and 0.24 ng (inductive sensor) of pneumolysin per milliliter. Second, magnetic relocation of the particles within the test strip after the immunoassay was completed increased the detected signal by 20%. Such results obtained with portable devices are promising when compared to non-portable conventional pneumolysin detection techniques such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The combination and optimization of these approaches would have excellent application in point-of-care biodetection to reduce antibiotic misuse, hospitalizations, and deaths from community-acquired pneumonia.

Today, public health is one of the most important challenges in society. Cancer is the leading cause of death, so early diagnosis and localized treatments that minimize side effects are a priority. Magnetic nanoparticles have shown great potential as magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents, detection tags for in vitro biosensing, and mediators of heating in magnetic hyperthermia. One of the critical characteristics of nanoparticles to adjust to the biomedical needs of each application is their polymeric coating. Fatty acid coatings are known to contribute to colloidal stability and good surface crystalline quality. While monolayer coatings make the particles hydrophobic, a fatty acid double-layer renders them hydrophilic, and therefore suitable for use in body fluids. In addition, they provide the particles with functional chemical groups that allow their bioconjugation. This work analyzes three types of self-assembled bilayer fatty acid coatings of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles: oleic, lauric, and myristic acids. We characterize the particles magnetically and structurally and study their potential for resonance imaging, magnetic hyperthermia, and labeling for biosensing in lateral flow immunoassays. We found that the myristic acid sample reported a large r2 relaxivity, superior to existing iron-based commercial agents. For magnetic hyperthermia, a significant specific absorption rate value was obtained for the oleic sample. Finally, the lauric acid sample showed promising results for nanolabeling.

Background: Various genetic and environmental factors are involved in urolithiasis. The 2 most common metabolic abnormalities are the increase in urinary calcium and low urinary citrate excretion. The ratio calculated between the concentrations of both substances is a good risk marker for the formation of calcium stones. Objectives: To determine whether the risk of urinary calcium stone formation changes throughout the day in the same patient. Methods: We studied 56 children (23 V, 33 M) to check if they had prelithiasis. Calcium, citrate, and creatinine concentrations were determined in two urine samples collected one before dinner and the other in the morning. It was collected if they had ultrasound stones and if there was a history of urolithiasis in first and/or second degree relatives. Results: In 25 patients (44.6%), renal ultrasound was positive for lithiasis (stones [n = 9] and microlithiasis [n = 16]). Forty of the 56 families (71.4%) had a history of urolithiasis. The percentage of abnormal urinary calcium (28.6%) concentrations and an abnormal calcium/citrate ratio (69.6%) was higher in the first urine of the day. The calcium/citrate ratio was the only studied parameter that was related to a family history of urolithiasis. There were no differences in urinary parameters between patients with and without ultrasound-confirmed kidney stones. Conclusions: Urinary concentrations of calcium and the calcium/citrate ratio vary throughout the day. Urine produced at night has a higher risk of urinary calcium stone formation. Resumen: Antecedentes: En la urolitiasis intervienen diversos factores genéticos y ambientales. Las 2 anomalías metabólicas más frecuentes son el incremento en la eliminación urinaria de calcio y la reducción en la de citrato. El cociente calculado entre las concentraciones de ambas sustancias es un buen marcador de riesgo de formación de cálculos cálcicos. Objetivos: Determinar si el riesgo litógeno en la orina de un mismo paciente cambia a lo largo del día. Métodos: Se estudiaron 56 niños (23 V, 33 M) para comprobar si eran portadores de prelitiasis. Se determinaron las concentraciones de calcio, citrato y creatinina en 2 muestras de orina recogidas, una, antes de cenar, y la otra, por la mañana, al levantarse. Se anotó si tenían cálculos ecográficos y si existían antecedentes de urolitiasis en los familiares de primer y/o segundo grado. Resultados: En 25 pacientes (44,6%) la ecografía renal fue positiva para litiasis (cálculos [n = 9] y microcálculos [n = 16]). En 40 de las 56 familias (71,4%) existían antecedentes de urolitiasis. El porcentaje mayor de valores anormales de la concentración urinaria de calcio (28,6%) y del cociente calcio/citrato (69,6%) correspondió a la primera orina del día. Este último parámetro fue el único entre los estudiados que se relacionó con los antecedentes familiares de urolitiasis. No se comprobaron diferencias en los parámetros urinarios al comparar a los pacientes con presencia o ausencia de litiasis renal ecográfica. Conclusiones: Las concentraciones urinarias de calcio y del cociente calcio/citrato se modifican a lo largo del día. Las orinas formadas durante la noche son más litógenas. Keywords: Urolithiasis, Calcium, Citrate, Urinary stone risk, Palabras clave: Urolitiasis, Calcio, Citrato, Riesgo litógeno

Resumen: Antecedentes: En la urolitiasis intervienen diversos factores genéticos y ambientales. Las 2 anomalías metabólicas más frecuentes son el incremento en la eliminación urinaria de calcio y la reducción en la de citrato. El cociente calculado entre las concentraciones de ambas sustancias es un buen marcador de riesgo de formación de cálculos cálcicos. Objetivos: Determinar si el riesgo litógeno en la orina de un mismo paciente cambia a lo largo del día. Métodos: Se estudiaron 56 niños (23 V, 33 M) para comprobar si eran portadores de prelitiasis. Se determinaron las concentraciones de calcio, citrato y creatinina en 2 muestras de orina recogidas, una, antes de cenar, y la otra, por la mañana, al levantarse. Se anotó si tenían cálculos ecográficos y si existían antecedentes de urolitiasis en los familiares de primer y/o segundo grado. Resultados: En 25 pacientes (44,6%) la ecografía renal fue positiva para litiasis (cálculos [n = 9] y microcálculos [n = 16]). En 40 de las 56 familias (71,4%) existían antecedentes de urolitiasis. El porcentaje mayor de valores anormales de la concentración urinaria de calcio (28,6%) y del cociente calcio/citrato (69,6%) correspondió a la primera orina del día. Este último parámetro fue el único entre los estudiados que se relacionó con los antecedentes familiares de urolitiasis. No se comprobaron diferencias en los parámetros urinarios al comparar a los pacientes con presencia o ausencia de litiasis renal ecográfica. Conclusiones: Las concentraciones urinarias de calcio y del cociente calcio/citrato se modifican a lo largo del día. Las orinas formadas durante la noche son más litógenas. Abstract: Background: Various genetic and environmental factors are involved in urolithiasis. The 2 most common metabolic abnormalities are the increase in urinary calcium and low urinary citrate excretion. The ratio calculated between the concentrations of both substances is a good risk marker for the formation of calcium stones. Objectives: To determine whether the risk of urinary calcium stone formation changes throughout the day in the same patient. Methods: We studied 56 children (23 V, 33 M) to check if they had prelithiasis. Calcium, citrate, and creatinine concentrations were determined in two urine samples collected one before dinner and the other in the morning. It was collected if they had ultrasound stones and if there was a history of urolithiasis in first and/or second degree relatives. Results: In 25 patients (44.6%), renal ultrasound was positive for lithiasis (stones [n = 9] and microlithiasis [n = 16]). Forty of the 56 families (71.4%) had a history of urolithiasis. The percentage of abnormal urinary calcium (28.6%) concentrations and an abnormal calcium/citrate ratio (69.6%) was higher in the first urine of the day. The calcium/citrate ratio was the only studied parameter that was related to a family history of urolithiasis. There were no differences in urinary parameters between patients with and without ultrasound-confirmed kidney stones. Conclusions: Urinary concentrations of calcium and the calcium/citrate ratio vary throughout the day. Urine produced at night has a higher risk of urinary calcium stone formation. Palabras clave: Urolitiasis, Calcio, Citrato, Riesgo litógeno, Keywords: Urolithiasis, Calcium, Citrate, Urinary stone risk

Somatization processes are usually associated with a lack of insight or with emotional unawareness, especially in adolescents where the ability for self-reflection is beginning to mature. However, the extent to which different levels of insight explain variations in somatization remains understudied. This study aimed to evaluate whether high-level emotional awareness (comprehension) but not low-level awareness (only attention) is needed to psychologically cope with suffering, thus leading to lower somatization. Specific predictions were: 1) High attention along with High comprehension will be associated with significantly lower frequency of somatic complaints than other combinations (Low attention and Low comprehension, or High attention but Low comprehension); 2) In absence of comprehension, no attention will be more optimal than attention only, because only-attention might work as an amplificatory of suffering without the possibility of processing it. Self-reports of meta-cognitive processes, somatization, and control variables were obtained from 264 adolescents from a non-clinical population (54.5% female; aged 12-18, M = 14.7, SD = 1.7). In line with expectations, results revealed significant differences in the effects of insight positions on somatization: Attention+Comprehension (M = 4.9, SE = 0.9) < Nothing (M = 7.1, SE = 0.3) < Only attention (M = 8.9, SE = 0.7). Compared to Nothing, Attention+comprehension was associated with significantly reduced somatic complaints (B = -2.2, p = 0.03, 95% CI -4,1 to 0.2). However, Only attention was associated with increased somatic complaints compared to the other two conditions (B = 1.8, p = 0.03, 95% CI 0.2 to 3.4; B = 4, CI 95% 1.6-6.3, p = 0.001, respectively). This highlights the role of higher-order awareness (i.e., comprehension or clarity) in the processing of suffering and stresses its value in the adaptive coping of emotional distress.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer death and the fourth most common cancer in the world. Colonoscopy is the most sensitive test used for detection of CRC; however, their procedure is invasive and expensive for population mass screening. Currently, the fecal occult blood test has been widely used as a screening tool for CRC but displays low specificity. The lack of rapid and simple methods for mass screening makes the early diagnosis and therapy monitoring difficult. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as a novel source of biomarkers due to their contents in proteins and miRNAs. Their detection would not require invasive techniques and could be considered as a liquid biopsy. Specifically, it has been demonstrated that the amount of CD147 expressed in circulating EVs is significant higher for CRC cell lines than for normal colon fibroblast cell lines. Moreover, CD147-containing EVs have been used as a biomarker to monitor response to therapy in patients with CRC. Therefore, this antigen could be used as a non-invasive biomarker for the detection and monitoring of CRC in combination with a Point-of-Care platform as, for example, Lateral Flow Immunoassays (LFIAs). Here, we propose the development of a quantitative lateral flow immunoassay test based on the use of magnetic nanoparticles as labels coupled to inductive sensor for the non-invasive detection of CRC by CD147-positive EVs. The results obtained for quantification of CD147 antigen embedded in EVs isolated from plasma sample have demonstrated that this device could be used as a Point-of-Care tool for CRC screening or therapy monitoring thanks to its rapid response and easy operation.

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoflowers coated by a black carbon layer (Fe3O4@C) were studied as labels in lateral flow immunoassays. They were synthesized by a one-pot solvothermal route, and they were characterized (size, morphology, chemical composition, and magnetic properties). They consist of several superparamagnetic cores embedded in a carbon coating holding carboxylic groups adequate for bioconjugation. Their multi-core structure is especially efficient for magnetic separation while keeping suitable magnetic properties and appropriate size for immunoassay reporters. Their functionality was tested with a model system based on the biotin–neutravidin interaction. For this, the nanoparticles were conjugated to neutravidin using the carbodiimide chemistry, and the lateral flow immunoassay was carried out with a biotin test line. Quantification was achieved with both an inductive magnetic sensor and a reflectance reader. In order to further investigate the quantifying capacity of the Fe3O4@C nanoflowers, the magnetic lateral flow immunoassay was tested as a detection system for extracellular vesicles (EVs), a novel source of biomarkers with interest for liquid biopsy. A clear correlation between the extracellular vesicle concentration and the signal proved the potential of the nanoflowers as quantifying labels. The limit of detection in a rapid test for EVs was lower than the values reported before for other magnetic nanoparticle labels in the working range 0–3 × 107 EVs/μL. The method showed a reproducibility (RSD) of 3% (n = 3). The lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) rapid test developed in this work yielded to satisfactory results for EVs quantification by using a precipitation kit and also directly in plasma samples. Besides, these Fe3O4@C nanoparticles are easy to concentrate by means of a magnet, and this feature makes them promising candidates to further reduce the limit of detection.

The effect of the annealing temperature Tann on the magnetic properties of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles embedded in an amorphous silica matrix (CoFe2O4/SiO2), synthesized by a sol-gel auto-combustion method, was investigated by magnetization and AC susceptibility measurements. For samples with 15% w/w nanoparticle concentration, the particle size increases from ~2.5 to ~7 nm, increasing Tann from 700 to 900 °C. The effective magnetic anisotropy constant (Keff) increases with decreasing Tann, due to the increase in the surface contribution. For a 5% w/w sample annealed at 900 °C, Keff is much larger (1.7 × 106 J/m3) than that of the 15% w/w sample (7.5 × 105 J/m3) annealed at 700 °C and showing comparable particle size. This indicates that the effect of the annealing temperature on the anisotropy is not only the control of the particle size but also on the core structure (i.e., cation distribution between the two spinel sublattices and degree of spin canting), strongly affecting the magnetocrystalline anisotropy. The results provide evidence that the magnetic anisotropy comes from a complex balance between core and surface contributions that can be controlled by thermal treatments.

Since their first observation, understanding the biology of extracellular vesicles (EV) has been an important and challenging field of study. They play a key role in the intercellular communication and are involved in important physiological and pathological functions. Therefore, EV are considered as potential biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring the response to treatment in some diseases. In addition, due to their properties, EV may be used for therapeutic purposes. In the study of EV, three major points have to be addressed: 1. How to isolate EV from cell culture supernatant/biological fluids, 2. how to detect them, and 3. how to characterize and quantify. In this review, we focus on the last two questions and provide the main analytical techniques up-to-date for detection and profiling of EV. We critically analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each one, aimed to be of relevance for all researchers working on EV biology and their potential applications.

A new generation of magnetic lateral flow immunoassays is emerging as powerful tool for diagnostics. They rely on the use of magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) as detecting label, replacing conventional gold or latex beads. MNPs can be sensed and quantified by means of external devices, allowing the development of immunochromatographic tests with a quantitative capability. Moreover, they have an added advantage because they can be used for immunomagnetic separation (IMS), with improvements in selectivity and sensitivity. In this paper, we have reviewed the current knowledge on magnetic-lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA), coupled with both research and commercially available instruments. The work in the literature has been classified in two categories: optical and magnetic sensing. We have analysed the type of magnetic nanoparticles used in each case, their size, coating, crystal structure and the functional groups for their conjugation with biomolecules. We have also taken into account the analytical characteristics and the type of transduction. Magnetic LFIA have been used for the determination of biomarkers, pathogens, toxins, allergens and drugs. Nanocomposites have been developed as alternative to MNP with the purpose of sensitivity enhancement. Moreover, IMS in combination with other detection principles could also improve sensitivity and limit of detection. The critical analysis in this review could have an impact for the future development of magnetic LFIA in fields requiring both rapid separation and quantification.

Introduction to the special issue «Constitution and globalization: constitutionalization of supranational areas». This issue contains most of the papers of the Conference «Constitution and globalization» hold at the UNED Law School.Published online: 27 November 2014

Therapeutic adherence is a complex and multidimensional concept. The percentage of adherence to treatments involving a change in lifestyle, such as quitting smoking, is lower than in other disorders, a fact which has relevant clinical, psychological and economic consequences. This paper aims to review the associated factors with adherence to therapy in smoking treatment. Strategies to enhance therapeutic adherence involve the adequate choice of treatment, to know the smoker´s characteristics, breaking down organizational barriers in health system and the training of health professionals in communication skills with patients.

This paper analyses the steps required to implement the equality principle and other constitutional provisions concerning the image of women conveyed by the media. To that end, it examines in detail the laws that implement these constitutional provisions, especially the equal rights laws and gender violence laws approved in recent years, and also the enforcement measures that ensure the observance of these laws. This paper also analyses in detail the decisions taken by the institutions which resolve disputes related to the application of these rules, especially disputes related to discriminatory advertising.

El creciente interés por el estudio de las revistas culturales afirma la dimensión histórica de este tipo de revistas, que son vistas como instituciones que, al incluir o excluir los textos dados, ponen en práctica mecanismos de control establecidos por los textos culturales. Esto les confiere el carácter de "representatividad "nacido por el discurso cultural de un período de tiempo. Este estudio presenta y explica algunos elementos de narraciones de Octavio Jiménez publicados en El Repertorio Americano-que conforman un segmento del discurso cultural de Costa Rica desde 1929, cuando aparece la revista, hasta 1945.

En este artículo voy a explorar dos de los recursos literarios del discurso barroco: la cita y reminiscencias. Analizo estos dos recursos en la novela El recurso del método, por el autor cubano Alejo Carpantier. Teóricamente concibo el texto como una construcción dialógica del tipo propuesto por Severo Sarduy y Michael Bajtín. In this article I explore two of the literary resources of baroque discourse: the quote and reminiscences. I analyze these two resources in the novel El recurso del método, by Cuban author Alejo Carpantier. Theoretically I conceive of the text as a dialogic construction of the type proposed by Severo Sarduy and Michael Bakhtin.

La parodia es, entonces, una de las formas por medio de las cuales, el escritor cubano Alejo Carpentier inserta, dentro de sus textos narrativas, el conocimiento sobre la cultura universal y lo relaciona con la realidad latinoamericana.

Desde el punto de vista de la semántica estructural de Greimas , el autor sugiere un análisis de fraternidad como una isotopía que abarca todos los demás isotopías semánticas en esta poética trabajo.

La identidad latinoamericana se formó gradualmente a medida que las diferentes culturas entremezcladas en un continuo proceso de transculturación, en la que los nativos americanos, españoles, negros y chinos ise interrelacionarón y provocó diversos sincretismos. Por lo tanto, la mezcla racial es una variable constructiva de nuestra identidad. En este artículo se analiza cómo racial mezcla se muestra en "El recurso del método", de Alejo Carpentier. Latín American identity was gradually formed as different cultures intermingled in a contínuing process of transculturation in which native Americans, Spaniards, Blacks and Chinese interrelated and brought about various syncretisms. Therefore, racial blending is a constructive variable of our identity. This article analyses how racial blending is shown in El recurso del método, by Alejo Carpentier.

La parodia es uno de los elementos constitutivos más destacados en al escritura Carpenteriana. Este artículo trata de demostrar la importancia de este recurso, utilizado por Carpentier para establecer relaciones más allá tiempo y espacio, entre dos realidades análogas similares, uno de los cuales se explican en términos de su afinidad a la otra, que bien puede haber ocurrido siglos antes. Parody is among the most salient constitutive elements in Carpenterian writing. This article attempts to demonstrate the significance of this resource, used by Capentier to establish relationships beyond time and space, between two similar, analogous realities, one of which is explained in terms of its affinity to the other, which may well have occurred centuries before.

En primer lugar, la autora realiza un fructífero viaje personal a lo largo de las fuentes impresas que nos ponen en contacto con los autores teatrales, tanto nacionales como extranjeros, vinculados a la escena nacional en el período del título. [...]

Background: Foodborne diarrhea prevention in children under five is simple, but it is critical to address the infection's three components prioritized for preventive intervention. This study has developed a local strategy of preventive measures for foodborne diarrhea in children under five in collaboration with stakeholders (caregivers, community leaders, nurses, doctors and health technicians). Design and method: A Nominal Group Technique (NGT) was used to develop the strategy in two districts, and 31 stakeholders participated. In the rural area (Marracuene), 16 stakeholders participated, while in the urban area (KaMaxaqueni), 15 stakeholders participated. In each area, the NGT session with stakeholders generated ideas and reached a consensus on what should be done in the strategy as measures to prevent foodborne diarrhea in children under the age of five. The process was inclusive, and the strategy summarized the general agreement. Findings: In rural areas, stakeholders emphasized the importance of hand washing, improving traditional medicine storage conditions, and not giving traditional medicine to children under six months. The measures in urban areas were environmental hygiene, water treatment, and putting ash inside latrines. Conclusion: The stakeholders prioritized foodborne diarrhea prevention measures based on the reality of the household. The inclusion of stakeholders in the strategy design brings measures that allow for the mitigation of factors.

Background: Although diagnosis and treatment of diarrhoea are considered easy, statistics show that 525,000 children worldwide die annually due to diarrhoea, 90% of the deaths are in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, and Mozambique account for 6.9%. Assessment of practices of diagnosis and treatment of diarrhoea in children under five were con-ducted in Maputo, Mozambique. Design and method: The study was retrospective – source of information: record books from 2015 to 2019. All statements about age, gender, signs and symptoms, diagnoses, and treatment were collected to assess practices implemented by the health professionals to diagnose diarrhoea in children under five. Results: A total of 9,041 cases were found, where 4,052 (44, 8 %) were female, urban area accounts for 7,668 (74.8 %). Children younger than 6 months 1,013 (11,2%); from 6 to 11 months 1,370 (15,2%); from 12 to 23 months 2,535 (28 %); from 24 to 35 months 1,674 (18.5 %), from 36 to 47 months 1,239 (13.7 %) and from 48 to 59 months 1,210 (13.4 %). About 3,644 (40.3 %) had fever, 3,467 (38 %) vomit, 1,999 (22 %) blood in stool and other symptoms; only 5 (1 %) of the children’s stools were submitted for laboratory analysis. The clinical diagnoses were diarrhoea 3,905 (43 %), diarrhoea and vomit 2,037(22 %) and others. The main treatment was oral rehydration salts 7,118 (79 %) and 21 % antibiotics. Conclusion: Even when the signs and symptoms (fever and blood in stool) suggested or required laboratory exams, this was not done. Nevertheless, the children were treated with antibiotic without the screening of etiological agent.

Resumo Em Moçambique, a venda de refeições em viaturas nas ruas da cidade de Maputo e nas redondezas tem estado a crescer. Entretanto, o consumo de refeições na rua representa riscos para a saúde do consumidor devido às precárias práticas de higiene em que as refeições são vendidas. Com objetivo de avaliar as condições higiênico-sanitárias em que as refeições são vendidas em viaturas nas ruas da baixa da cidade de Maputo, trinta e três viaturas de venda de refeições foram avaliadas. Os proprietários das viaturas foram submetidos a um questionário com perguntas semiestruturadas e uma lista de verificação (checklist) para averiguar a implementação das boas práticas na confecção e venda de refeições. Aproximadamente 90% (29) dos proprietários das viaturas eram do sexo feminino, 39,39% (13) possuíam nível secundário, 30,30% (10), nível básico, 27,27% (9), nível primário e 3,03% (1) não tinham nenhum nível de escolaridade. Do total dos vendedores, 33,33% não possuía qualquer instrução sobre a confecção e venda de refeições. Mais de 50% dos vendedores apresentava bata branca em boas condições. Os adornos (relógios, anéis e pulseiras) foram observados em 21,21% e a higiene das mãos em 63,63% dos vendedores. Apenas 24,24% dos vendedores possuía recipientes íntegros, limpos e de fácil transporte para o acondicionamento de lixo. A periodicidade de higienização das viaturas variava entre os vendedores: 51.52% diariamente, 24.24% em dias alternados e 24.24% semanalmente. Nas imediações de venda foram observadas condições de insalubridade, tais como acúmulos de lixo diverso (capim, pedras, garrafas e papel). Mais da metade dos vendedores nunca ouviu falar da legislação sobre a atividade e nunca foi vistoriado por alguma entidade. As condições higiênico-sanitárias eram satisfatórias em mais de 50% dos vendedores. Contudo, as viaturas não eram apropriadas, o ambiente de venda, higienização e manejo de resíduos, precisariam ser melhorados. Formação integral e contínua dos trabalhadores foi o ponto crítico, as entidades de direito devem certificar e monitorar o exercício da atividade.

Este trabalho faz uma leitura do pecado e da transgressão sexual no poema “O elixir do pajé”, de Bernardo Guimarães, tendo como referencial teórico conceitos de Bataille, em O erotismo, e por substrato a exposição sobre sexualidade elaborada por Marilena Chauí em Repressão Sexual, essa nossa (des)conhecida. O índio, em Bernardo Guimarães, figurativiza o erótico e, a ação do pajé se caracteriza por palavrões escrachados e por atitudes que o senso comum considera obscenas. Obra publicada em 1875, o poema de Bernardo Guimarães, segundo a historiografia do romantismo brasileiro, se contrapõe tematicamente à idealização da figura do índio e, em termos formais, faz singular paródia de poemas de Gonçalves Dias. O erotismo, na visão de Bataille, se dá através de transformações e movimentações corpóreas que excitam interiormente o homem, estando ligado à experiência e sendo condicionado pela transgressão: a experimentação erótica contém em si a experiência do pecado. Marilena Chauí apresenta o pecado original como a descoberta do sexo, explicando o pecado em duas faces: a primeira é o deixar-se seduzir, ou seja, a tentação, e a segunda é a queda, o distanciar-se para sempre de Deus. Nosso trabalho tem como pressuposto a concepção de que o sexo reafirma sem cessar que o homem é corpóreo e carente e mostramos como tal concepção é traduzida no poema de Bernardo Guimarães.

Microalgae are a promising source for proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates for the food/feed and biofuel industry. To make microalgae production economically feasible, it is necessary to optimally use all produced compounds keeping full functionality. Therefore, biorefining of microalgae is the key to lower the cost of algal products using mild and effective processing techniques. In this article, we have tested the feasibility of aqueous solutions of imidazolium and phosponium ionic liquids to selectively milk the hydrophobic lipids from Neochloris oleoabundans biomass out of intact cells and recover after cell disruption the hydrophilic fraction containing proteins and carbohydrates. The results showed that the ionic liquid tributylmethylphosphonium methylsulfate (TBP SO 4 ; Cyphos 108) is able to permeabilize fresh intact cells of N. oleoabundans for extracting 68% of total lipids out of the cells, whereas, after cell disruption, 80% of total proteins, and 77% of total carbohydrates could be obtained in aqueous buffers. This concept kept the recovered proteins in their native form without interacting with the ionic liquids that will denature the proteins. Selective biorefinery of different components from microalgae using ionic liquid TBP SO 4 explains the novelty of this concept., (Copyright © 2019 Desai, Fernandez, Wijffels and Eppink.)

We propose an empirical framework to scale the effects of bioturbation on sediment resuspension to population bioturbation activity, approximated as population metabolic rate. Individual metabolic rates have been estimated as functions of body size and extrapolated to population level. We used experimental flumes to test this approach across different types of marine, soft-sediment bioturbators. We observed that a large part of the variance in biota-mediated sediment resuspension can be explained by a positive relationship with population metabolic rate. Other mechanisms can strongly influence the outcome, such as bioturbation of deep sediment strata, biotic interactions with hydrodynamic stress and overlapping areas of influence must be further investigated. By relating the biota-mediated changes in resuspended sediment to metabolism, we can place our observations within the broader context of the metabolic theory of ecology and to formulate general expectations about changes in biota-mediated sediment resuspension in response to changes in population structure and climate change.