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The aim of this study was to identify the most suitable organizational model for teaching the university subject of Outdoor Activities in relation to learning acquisition and satisfaction. For this purpose, four models were designed, some of which were dominated by traditional education and others by innovative education. The data collection instruments were the Spanish version of the Physical Education of the Sport Satisfaction Instrument, adapted to the university context, and the questionnaire on the contents of the subject designed ad hoc. Data collection was carried out before and after the intervention with a total of 125 students. For data analysis, an ANCOVA was performed. The results showed that there were significant differences in satisfaction between groups (p = 0.029), but not in the boredom scale (p = 0.109). With regard to acquisition of learning between groups, there were significant differences (p = 0.005) in the overall grade of the subject. There were also significant differences in the scores for content taught differently depending on the group (p = 0.003), with a higher score in the most innovative group, the intensive-continuous group, compared to the fractioned (p = 0.005) and classic groups (p = 0.015). It is concluded that there is a positive effect between direct and continuous contact with nature, both in the acquisition of learning and in student satisfaction, with the most innovative model obtaining the best results of the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcription factors control genes to maintain normal hemopoiesis, and dysregulation of some factors can lead to acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Mycoviruses are known to alter the genetics of their fungal host. The present study evaluates the effects of the products of a mycovirus-containing Aspergillus flavus (MCAF), isolated from the home of a patient with ALL, on certain transcription factors of normal and ALL cell lines. Our published studies have shown that ALL patients have antibodies to MCAF, and that exposure of the mononuclear leukocytes of patients in complete remission to its products, unlike controls, results in the re-development of genetic and cell surface phenotypes characteristic of ALL. For the present study, normal, pre-B, and B-cell leukemia cell lines were exposed to the culture of MCAF. Pre- and post-exposure levels of PAX5, Ikaros, and NF-κB were assessed. Exposure to MCAF resulted in apoptosis, cell cycle changes, and complete downregulation of all transcription factors in normal cell lines. In acute leukemia cell lines, cellular apoptosis and alterations in the cell cycle were also noted; however, while there was downregulation of all tested transcription factors, residual levels were retained. The noted alterations in the transcription factors caused by MCAF are novel findings. The possible role of MCAF in leukemogenesis needs to be further investigated. Mycovirus-containing Aspergillus flavus was initially isolated from a leukemia patient's home. Our prior published studies have illuminated intriguing associations of this organism with leukemia. Unlike controls, patients diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) harbor antibodies to this organism. Furthermore, the exposure of mononuclear cells from patients with ALL in complete remission to the products of this organism reproduced genetic and cell phenotypes characteristic of ALL. These findings underscore the potential role of environmental factors in leukemogenesis and hint at novel avenues for therapeutic intervention and preventive strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Construction sites are highly unpredictable environments involving a wide variety of stakeholders with complex information exchanges, which lead to the well-known inefficiencies and unproductivity of the construction sector. The adoption of Building Digital Twins (BDT) in the construction site is a promising solution to this issue, by automating data acquisition and knowledge extraction processes and providing what-if scenario simulation capabilities. Furthermore, the current research sets the principles to define, replicate, and scale-up the architecture of a Building Digital Twin Platform (BDTP), conceived as a scalar ecosystem, which allows to seamlessly manage on-site construction processes, integrating cross-cutting domains for the construction site optimization (Progress monitoring, Quality control, Operational Health and Safety, Equipment control, and Production planning). The starting point of the research is a comprehensive diagnosis of on-site process inefficiencies and the barriers to its digitalization leading to the user requirements, which have been underpinned by questionnaires and interviews addressed within an open innovation user-centered approach around Living Labs. The research has been conceived following the Design Science Research (DSR) methodology and based on the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) analysis for the continuous improvement of the construction process. By means of the adoption of the standard Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN), based on the BDTP architecture, the research has resulted in BPMN workflows stemmed from the Digital Twin (DT) where the DT itself is an actor in a service-oriented data-exchange workflow. Moreover, the use of a BDTP can pave the way for the transition from user-driven construction management to hybrid management, coexisting with both human and digital actors and merging expert knowledge with artificial intelligence techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although preclinical investigations have shown notable efficacy in solid tumor models utilizing in vitro-differentiated Th17 cells for adoptive cell therapy (ACT), the potential benefits of this strategy in enhancing ACT efficacy in hematological malignancies, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), remain unexplored. CLL is a B-cell malignancy with a clinical challenge of increased resistance to targeted therapies. T-cell therapies, including chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, have demonstrated limited success in CLL, which is attributed to CLL-mediated T-cell dysfunction and skewing toward immunosuppressive phenotypes. Herein, we illustrate the feasibility of polarizing CD4+ T cells from the Eμ-TCL1 murine model, the most representative model for human CLL, into Th17 phenotype, employing a protocol of T-cell activation through the inducible co-stimulator (ICOS) alongside a polarizing cytokine mixture. We demonstrate augmented memory properties of in vitro-polarized IL-17-producing T cells, and preliminary in vivo persistence in leukemia-bearing mice. Our findings gain translational relevance through successful viral transduction of Eμ-TCL1 CD4+ T cells with a CD19-targeted CAR construct during in vitro Th17 polarization. Th17 CAR T cells exhibited remarkable persistence upon encountering antigen-expressing target cells. This study represents the first demonstration of the potential of in vitro-differentiated Th17 cells to enhance ACT efficacy in CLL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to examine the existing evidence on gamification in educational settings, highlighting its impact on motivation and academic performance. Methodologically, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was developed under the PRISMA statement criteria using three multidisciplinary databases: Web of Science, Scopus, and Scielo. According to the inclusion, exclusion, and quality criteria, it was determined to include 9 SLR articles on gamification that address at least one of the two key variables: student motivation or academic performance. The articles were published between 2016 and 2022, available in open access, written in English or Spanish, and with content that is directly related to the research questions. The results reveal that gamification significantly influences motivation by facilitating the assimilation of knowledge, the improvement of skills and academic competencies of students, and specifically refers to a wide range of capabilities that are essential for success in the educational environment and that can be enhanced through playful and interactive learning experiences. These skills can be cognitive, self-learning, social, or collaborative, among others. It is concluded that creativity and adaptability are key to successfully implementing gamification in the classroom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal-doped carbonaceous materials have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their versatile applications in various fields, including catalysis, energy storage, environmental remediation, electronics, and sensors, as well as reinforcement. This study investigates the synthesis and characterization of a composite material featuring a carbonaceous matrix doped with copper, focusing on the thermolysis of glycine as a precursor. The synthesis methodology involved utilizing glycine and copper acetate monohydrate in varying ratios, with the mixture subjected to heating in ceramic crucibles at temperatures ranging from 450 to 550 °C, with pyrolysis yields over the 5 to 39% interval. The pristine and Cu-doped samples obtained at 500 °C underwent characterization using a diverse array of techniques, including scanning and transmission electron microscopies, multi-elemental analysis by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, CHNS elemental analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, infrared and Raman spectroscopies, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and terahertz time-domain spectroscopy, along with conductivity measurements. Under optimized conditions, copper (at 6.5%) was present primarily in the free metallic form, accompanied by traces of tenorite (CuO) and cuprite (Cu2O). The carbonaceous matrix exhibited a 6:1 ratio of graphitic carbon to a carbon-nitrogen compound with the formula C2H2N2O2, such as isomers of diazetidinedione, according to multi-elemental analysis results. Conductivity measurements disclosed a significant increase in conductivity compared to the product of glycine thermolysis, showcasing the enhanced electrical properties of the new composite. Additionally, terahertz measurements showed the potential of the material as a broadband absorber for the fabrication of terahertz devices and provided compelling evidence of a significant improvement in radiation absorption upon copper doping. In conclusion, this research sheds light on the promising properties of copper-doped carbonaceous composites obtained by glycine pyrolysis, offering insights into their potential applications in emerging technological domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, some older subjects with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) do not develop atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACVD) during their lifetime. The factors related to this resilient state have not been fully established. The aim of this study was to evaluate differential characteristics between older HeFH subjects with and without ACVD and factors associated with the presence of ACVD. Subjects were part of the Spanish Atherosclerosis Society Dyslipidemia Registry, and those ≥ 70 years old and with HeFH were included. Baseline characteristics of these subjects with and without ACVD were compared. A multivariate analysis was performed to assess factors associated with the presence of ACVD. A total of 2148 subjects with HeFH were included. Resilient subjects were mostly female, younger and presented fewer comorbidities with respect to the ACVD group. Subjects without ACVD had higher baseline high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (55.8 ± 17.1 vs. 47.9 ± 15.4 mg/dL; p < 0.001) and lower lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] (53.4 ± 67.9 vs. 66.6 ± 85.6 mg/dL; p < 0.001) levels with respect to those in the ACVD group. Lp(a) and the presence of ≥3 risk factors were associated with the presence of ACVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taste and smell disorders are common symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 acute infection. In post-COVID-19 condition, symptoms can persist leading to disruption in patients' lives, to changes in their coping skills, and to the need to develop strategies for everyday life. This study aimed to describe the perspective of a group of patients with Long-COVID-19, a condition where loss of taste and/or smell was the most predominant symptom. A qualitative descriptive study was conducted. Participants who had suffered SARS-CoV-2 infection and had Long-COVID-19 loss of taste and/or smell were recruited. Purposive sampling was applied, and participants were recruited until data redundancy was reached. In-depth interviews were used for data collection and thematic analysis was applied. Twelve COVID-19 survivors (75% women) were recruited. The mean age of the participants was 55 years, and the mean duration of post-COVID-19 symptoms was 25 months. Three themes were identified: (a) Living with taste and smell disorders, describing the disorders they experience on a daily basis, how their life has changed and the accompanying emotions, (b) Changes and challenges resulting from the loss of taste and smell, changes in habits, self-care and risk in certain jobs or daily activities, (c) Coping with taste and smell disorders, describing the daily strategies used and the health care received. In conclusion, Long-COVID-19 taste and/or smell disorders limit daily life and involve changes in habits, meal preparation, and the ability to detect potentially dangerous situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Personalized cancer medicine is based on the right classification of patients that can, then, be treated according to their specific characteristics. This is accomplished by the use of biological markers, so the identification of reliable biomarkers is a primary goal of clinical research. Here, we present two RNA molecules (named MDL1 and MDL1AS) that are generated in the mitochondria and have been heretofore neglected due to a glitch in the official human genome. Both molecules are good prognostic biomarkers in rectal cancer, meaning that their expression can predict which patients will survive more than 5 years after treatment. In addition, MDL1AS is also a good diagnostic biomarker (can distinguish people with/without the disease) for diverse cancers, including those of the colon, rectum, breast, and larynx. Experiments in cancer cells in culture show that these RNAs regulate several hallmarks of cancer, such as mitochondrial function, cell growth, and migration. Non-coding RNAs provide new opportunities to identify biomarkers that properly classify cancer patients. Here, we study the biomarker status of the mitochondrial long non-coding RNAs, MDL1 and MDL1AS. Expression of these genes was studied in public transcriptomic databases. In addition, a cohort of 69 locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) patients with a follow-up of more than 5 years was used to determine the prognostic value of these markers. Furthermore, cell lines of colorectal (HCT116) and breast (MDA-MB-231) carcinoma were employed to study the effects of downregulating MDL1AS in vitro. Expression of MDL1AS (but not MDL1) was significantly different in tumor cells than in the surrounding tissue in a tumor-type-specific context. Both MDL1 and MDL1AS were accurate biomarkers for the 5-year survival of LARC patients (p = 0.040 and p = 0.007, respectively) with promising areas under the curve in the ROC analyses (0.820 and 0.930, respectively). MDL1AS downregulation reduced mitochondrial respiration in both cell lines. Furthermore, this downregulation produced a decrease in growth and migration on colorectal cells, but the reverse effects on breast cancer cells. In summary, MDL1 and MDL1AS can be used as reliable prognostic biomarkers of LARC, and MDL1AS expression provides relevant information on the diagnosis of different cancers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world is facing a global sustainability crisis affecting environmental systems and society. Addressing these issues requires a multi-dimensional approach that can integrate energy, water, and environment Systems, as well as provide scientific policy advice. In this study, an updated version of an Integrated Assessment Model (IAM) was used, together with new data compatible with Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) projections, to significantly improve the work developed before. SSP climate data (temperature, precipitation, and total radiative forcing) and socioeconomic data (population and GDP) were loaded into the IAM, together with different scenario parameters. By analyzing varying socioeconomic scenarios, mitigation efforts, and adaptation strategies, this study assesses their impact on primary energy demand and, consequently, their impact on hydropower potential production. Our results show diverse energy paths, strongly dependent on the future scenario. Energy demand could increase up to 160%; however, several projections foresee a decline in hydropower production to minus 46% due to both climate change and socioeconomic transformation. Our findings highlight the importance of considering a range of potential future scenarios in energy planning and policy development. The varied outcomes across the considered scenarios emphasize the need for flexibility in strategies to accommodate for uncertainties and address the challenges posed by divergent trajectories in hydropower use and renewable energy shares. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Rockrose (Cistus laurifolius L.) is a pyrophyte species with allelopathic effects that colonizes acid forest soils in the Mediterranean basin. Its continuous spread contributes to increasing wildfire risk, even more so in the current context of forecasts of increasingly intense and prolonged heat waves and droughts. Its mechanized collection and transformation into biofuels contributes to climate change mitigation, the economic development of rural areas and wildfire risk reduction. Biomass storage is an essential requirement in the supply chain of bio-refineries and biomass plants. This research aims to evaluate the influence of long-term outdoor storage (1 year) of baled rockrose shrub biomass on the quality of biofuels (30 mm milled material and pellets), on pre-treatment processes and on combustion emissions in an industrial boiler. After storage, no significant differences were observed in the biomass pre-treatment processes or in the emissions in an industrial combustion boiler. Biomass weight loss was 12% after storage. Some quality biofuels parameters improved, with the reduction in ash content being the most prominent aspect, which allowed 30 mm of milled material to be classified as I1, according to ISO 17225-9:2022, and rockrose pellets as class I3 for industrial use, according to the ISO 17225-2-2021 standard. Biomass storage is an essential requirement in the supply chain of bio-refineries and power plants. This research aims to evaluate the influence of long-term outdoor storage (1 year) of baled rockrose (Cistus laurifolius L.) shrub biomass on biofuel's quality, pre-treatment processes and on combustion emissions in an industrial boiler. The raw material was obtained from different rockrose shrublands in north central Spain. A total of 233 tWM (tones of wet matter) of biomass were used to produce biofuels (30 mm of milled biomass and Ø 8 mm pellets) in the pre-treatment pilot plants at CEDER-CIEMAT. The combustion tests were conducted in an industrial moving grate boiler with a thermal power of 50 MWth, in a 17 MWe power plant. Outdoor storage improved some biofuel quality parameters, mainly the reduction in ash content, which allowed 30 mm of milled material to be classified as class I1 (ISO 17225-9:2022) and pellets as class I3 (ISO 17225-2-2021). No significant differences were observed in the total specific mass flow and energy consumption in the pre-treatment processes. The combustion tests had similar results, with the emissions being below the limits established in the directive (EU) 2015/2193. The results obtained indicated that the 1-year outdoor storage of rockrose-baled biomass, under Mediterranean conditions, was feasible for its subsequent use as biofuel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spain is one of the main producers of black truffle (Tuber melanosporum Vittad.), a fungus of great economic importance. Black truffles are usually cultivated in Quercus ilex orchards, as water availability is one of the most important factors influencing truffle production. Optimizing watering systems is essential to reduce the amount of water wasted. Nevertheless, up to now, no study has been carried out comparing the efficiency of different irrigation systems in truffle plantations. The aim of this study was to compare the efficiency of two different irrigation systems, namely a drip irrigation system and a micro-sprinkler system, in a Quercus ilex plantation situated in Burgos, Spain. Our data showed that there were no differences between the two irrigation systems in terms of truffle yields, the number of truffles, quality (based on truffle size), or the date of truffle harvesting. However, when other parameters were taken into consideration, such as the economic and environmental impact of installing and running these systems, drip irrigation was deemed the superior irrigation system because it uses less water. This study validates for the first time the use of drip irrigation rather than a micro-sprinkler system (the most commonly used in truffle plantations) because of its greater water use efficiency, which is an increasingly important consideration given future climate change scenarios marked by global water scarcity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New Jersey was among the first states impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with one of the highest overall death rates in the nation. Nevertheless, relatively few reports have been published focusing specifically on New Jersey. Here we report on molecular, clinical, and epidemiologic observations, from the largest healthcare network in the state, in a cohort of vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. We conducted molecular surveillance of SARS-CoV-2-positive nasopharyngeal swabs collected in nine hospitals from December 2020 through June 2022, using both whole genome sequencing (WGS) and a real-time RT-PCR screening assay targeting spike protein mutations found in variants of concern (VOCs) within our region. De-identified clinical data were obtained retrospectively, including demographics, COVID-19 vaccination status, ICU admission, ventilator support, mortality, and medical history. Statistical analyses were performed to identify associations between SARS-CoV-2 variants, vaccination status, clinical outcomes, and medical risk factors. A total of 5007 SARS-CoV-2-positive nasopharyngeal swabs were successfully screened and/or sequenced. Variant screening identified three predominant VOCs, including Alpha (n = 714), Delta (n = 1877), and Omicron (n = 1802). Omicron isolates were further sub-typed as BA.1 (n = 899), BA.2 (n = 853), or BA.4/BA.5 (n = 50); the remaining 614 isolates were classified as "Other". Approximately 31.5% (1577/5007) of the samples were associated with vaccine breakthrough infections, which increased in frequency following the emergence of Delta and Omicron. Severe clinical outcomes included ICU admission (336/5007 = 6.7%), ventilator support (236/5007 = 4.7%), and mortality (430/5007 = 8.6%), with increasing age being the most significant contributor to each (p < 0.001). Unvaccinated individuals accounted for 79.7% (268/336) of ICU admissions, 78.3% (185/236) of ventilator cases, and 74.4% (320/430) of deaths. Highly significant (p < 0.001) increases in mortality were observed in individuals with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, cancer, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia, but not with obesity, thyroid disease, or respiratory disease. Significant differences (p < 0.001) in clinical outcomes were also noted between SARS-CoV-2 variants, including Delta, Omicron BA.1, and Omicron BA.2. Vaccination was associated with significantly improved clinical outcomes in our study, despite an increase in breakthrough infections associated with waning immunity, greater antigenic variability, or both. Underlying comorbidities contributed significantly to mortality in both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, with increasing risk based on the total number of comorbidities. Real-time RT-PCR-based screening facilitated timely identification of predominant variants using a minimal number of spike protein mutations, with faster turnaround time and reduced cost compared to WGS. Continued evolution of SARS-CoV-2 variants will likely require ongoing surveillance for new VOCs, with real-time assessment of clinical impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Essential oils (EOs) obtained from Juniperus communis L. are frequently used in the production of bioproducts. However, there are no studies regarding industrial crops' production, allowing for better control of the quality and production of juniper EOs. To select the plant material for developing future crops of this species in northern Spain, four locations where this shrub species grows in the wild were selected and samples of both genera were collected. The EOs were obtained by steam distillation, and their chemical composition and bioactivity were evaluated. The results showed that the yield of EOs from male and female samples were within the usual reported ranges, varying between 0.24 and 0.58% (dry basis, d.b.). However, limonene content in three locations varied between 15 and 25%, which is between 100% and 200% higher than the values usually reported for other European countries. The antibacterial activity was determined by broth microdilution and showed that gram-positive bacteria were more susceptible to the tested EOs since, in general, lower MIC values were obtained compared to gram-negatives. The EOs from location 1 (L1F) and 2 (L2M) inhibited the growth of six out of the eight clinical strains tested. Samples from location 1 were particularly effective, exhibiting MBC against two gram-negative (E. coli and P. mirabilis) and one gram-positive bacteria (E. faecalis). Moreover, the majority of the EOs tested showed anti-inflammatory activity. Cytotoxic effect has been demonstrated in tumor cell lines, with the best results observed against gastric carcinoma (AGS) cells (GI50 between 7 to 77 µg/mL). Although generally presenting higher GI50, most samples also inhibited the growth of non-tumoral cells, particularly hepatocytes (PLP2 cells). Therefore, its use for their anti-proliferative activity should consider specific conditions to avoid damaging normal cells. Finally, the results and conclusions obtained led to the selection of the female shrubs from location 1 (L1F) as the plant material to be propagated in order to produce plants for a future juniper crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Juniperus communis L. is a species commonly grown in regions of the Northern Hemisphere, and is a good candidate to be cultivated in marginal lands. Plants coming from a pruning performed in a natural population located in Spain were used to assess the yield and quality of different products obtained following the cascade principle. A total of 1050 kg of foliage biomass were crushed, steam-distilled, and separated into fractions to produce biochar and absorbents for the pet industry using pilot plants. The obtained products were analysed. The essential oil, with a yield of 0.45% dry basis and a qualitative chemical composition similar to that described for the berries in international standards or monographs, showed antioxidant activity with promising CAA results (inhibition of 89% of the cell's oxidation). However, regarding antibacterial and antifungal activities, it only inhibited the growth of microorganisms at the maximum concentration tested, 2.5%. Concerning the hydrolate, it did not show bioactivity. Regarding the biochar, whose yield was 28.79% dry basis, interesting results were obtained for its characterisation as a possible soil improver for agronomic purposes (PFC 3(A)). Finally, promising results were obtained regarding the use of common juniper as absorbent, taking into account the physical characterisation and odour control capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, different models constructed with meteorological variables are proposed for the determination of horizontal ultraviolet irradiance ( I UV ), on the basis of data collected at Burgos (Spain) during an experimental campaign between March 2020 and May 2022. The aim is to explore the effectiveness of a range of variables for modelling horizontal ultraviolet irradiance through a comparison of supervised artificial neural network (ANN) and regression model results. A preliminary feature selection process using the Pearson correlation coefficient was sufficient to determine the variables for use in the models. The following variables and their influence on horizontal ultraviolet irradiance were analyzed: horizontal global irradiance (I GH ), clearness index (k t ), solar altitude angle (α) , horizontal beam irradiance (I BH ) , diffuse fraction ( D ), temperature (T) , sky clearness (ε) , cloud cover (Cc ), horizontal diffuse irradiance (I DH ) , and sky brightness (Δ). The ANN models yielded results of greater accuracy than the regression models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT5716, a probiotic strain isolated from human milk, has reported beneficial effects on different gastrointestinal disorders. Moreover, it has shown its ability to restore altered immune responses, in association with microbiome modulation in different pathological conditions. Therefore, our aim was to assess the effects of a Limosilacbacillus fermentum CECT5716 in a rat experimental model of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) that resembles human IBS. The experimental IBS was induced by deoxycholic acid (DCA) in rats and then, Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 (109 CFU/day/rat) was administered. Behavioral studies, hyperalgesia and intestinal hypersensitivity determinations were performed and the impact of the probiotic on the inflammatory and intestinal barrier integrity was evaluated. Additionally, the gut microbiota composition was analyzed. Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 attenuated the anxiety-like behavior as well as the visceral hypersensitivity and referred pain. Moreover, this probiotic ameliorated the gut inflammatory status, re-establishing the altered intestinal permeability, reducing the mast cell degranulation and re-establishing the gut dysbiosis in experimental IBS. Therefore, our results suggest a potential use of Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 in clinical practice for the management of IBS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity and aging are becoming increasingly prevalent across the globe. It has been established that aging is the major risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD), and it is becoming increasingly evident that obesity and the associated insulin resistance are also notably relevant risk factors. The biological plausibility of the link between high adiposity, insulin resistance, and dementia is central for understanding AD etiology, and to form bases for prevention efforts to decrease the disease burden. Several studies have demonstrated a strong association between short chain fatty acid receptor FFAR3 and insulin sensitivity. Interestingly, it has been recently established that FFAR3 mRNA levels are increased in early stages of the AD pathology, indicating that FFAR3 could play a key role in AD onset and progression. Indeed, in the present study we demonstrate that the ablation of the Ffar3 gene in Tg2576 mice prevents the development of cognitive deficiencies in advanced stages of the disease. Notably, this cognitive improvement is also maintained upon a severe metabolic challenge such as the exposure to high-fat diet (HFD) feeding. Moreover, FFAR3 deletion restores the brain hypermetabolism displayed by Tg2576 mice. Collectively, these data postulate FFAR3 as a potential novel target for AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The storage location assignment problem (SLAP) attempts to determine the locations of items that minimize a distribution center's order picking times. This paper presents a data mining-augmented postprocessing heuristic to assign highly associated items to slots in proximity. Consequently, the proposed approach provides competitive storage layouts for distribution centers, which ultimately improves the efficiency of order pickers. Most large distribution centers' order picking processes are highly labor-intensive. Increasing the efficiency of order picking allows these facilities to move higher volumes of products. The application of data mining in distribution centers has the capability of generating efficiency improvements, mainly if these techniques are used to analyze the large amount of data generated by orders received by distribution centers and determine correlations in ordering patterns. This paper proposes a heuristic method to optimize the order picking distance based on frequent itemset grouping and nonuniform product weights. The proposed heuristic uses association rule mining (ARM) to create families of products based on the similarities between the stock keeping units (SKUs). SKUs with higher similarities are located near the rest of the members of the family. This heuristic is applied to a numerical case using data obtained from a real distribution center in the food retail industry. The experiment results show that data mining-driven developed layouts can reduce the traveling distance required to pick orders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The ratio between global horizontal ultraviolet irradiance and broadband solar horizontal irradiance is presented, and its dependency on sky cloudiness conditions, as defined by the CIE Standard sky classification and clearness index, is shown in this paper. A single pattern that is only dependent on sky conditions is discerned, regardless of the temporal basis of the study. Solar Ultraviolet Radiation (UVR), which is identified as a major environmental health hazard, is responsible for a variety of photochemical reactions with direct effects on urban and aquatic ecosystems, human health, plant growth, and the deterioration of industrial systems. Ground measurements of total solar UVR are scarce, with low spatial and temporal coverage around the world, which is mainly due to measurement equipment maintenance costs and the complexities of equipment calibration routines; however, models designed to estimate ultraviolet rays from global radiation measurements are frequently used alternatives. In an experimental campaign in Burgos, Spain, between September 2020 and June 2022, average values of the ratio between horizontal global ultraviolet irradiance (GHUV) and global horizontal irradiance (GHI) were determined, based on measurements at ten-minute intervals. Sky cloudiness was the most influential factor in the ratio, more so than any daily, monthly, or seasonal pattern. Both the CIE standard sky classification and the clearness index were used to characterize the cloudiness conditions of homogeneous skies. Overcast sky types presented the highest values of the ratio, whereas the clear sky categories presented the lowest and most dispersed values, regardless of the criteria used for sky classification. The main conclusion, for practical purposes, was that the ratio between GHUV and GHI can be used to model GHUV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is one of the standards of care in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC). This retrospective study examines clinical, analytical, and pathological parameters collected from 77 patients with locally advanced (cT3-4 or cN+) rectal carcinoma diagnosed between 2007 and 2017 at our institution that were treated with preoperative CRT and surgery. In the prognosis analysis, lower hemoglobin levels (p = 0.008), lower lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR) (p = 0.011), and higher platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) (p = 0.029) in the second determination (Hb2, LMR2 and PLR2) were associated with the relapse group. The number of positive nodes after surgery (N+) showed a statistically significant association with relapse (p = 0.012). KRAS mutations were associated with a worse prognosis for 5 years progression-free and overall survival (p = 0.005 and 0.022; respectively). We propose a prognostic model based on four parameters (number of positive lymph nodes after surgery, hemoglobin levels, LMR, and PLR after neoadjuvant therapy) that can be a useful tool to estimate relapse risk. Moreover, bilirubin could be a useful parameter to predict the response to neoadjuvant CRT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the PALOMA trial, Papilocare® demonstrated efficacy in repairing low-grade cervical lesions related to human papillomavirus (HPV). This sub-analysis aimed to evaluate its efficacy in repairing these cervical lesions and clearing HPV in women aged older than 40 years. This was a multicenter, randomized, open-label, parallel-group, controlled clinical trial. Patients with low-degree HPV-dependent cervical lesions receiving 6-month treatment with the vaginal gel were compared to those with a watchful waiting approach. Among the 41 women analyzed (aged 47.7 years), 31 presented high-risk (HR) oncogenic HPV subtypes, and 14 had 16-18-31 HPV genotypes. After 6 months, normalized cytology and concordant colposcopy were achieved by a greater percentage of treated women. The difference was significant in the total population (92.3% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.007), and HR-HPV subpopulation (90.5% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.003). In the HR HPVs-16-18-31 subpopulation, the values were 75.0% and 40.0% (p = 0.293). In the total population, 61.5% of treated patients obtained HPV clearance, compared to 50.0% in the control group. Regarding the HR-HPV subpopulation, these values were 66.7% and 44.4%, respectively. Papilocare® demonstrated significant efficacy in repairing low-degree HPV-related cervical lesions and a positive trend to clear HPV in women older than 40 years old in comparison to the watchful waiting approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to analyze energy pathways for a fossil fuel rich developing country towards an energy transition considering national and international oil availability using Ecuador as a reference. An integrated assessment model has been developed to simulate energy transition scenarios considering constraints on oil availability at the national and global level. Results show that if current trends in energy demand and supply persist, energy scarcity would start around 2040 due to depletion of national oil reserves and restricted access to foreign oil. This would trigger a degrowth in economic activity in sectors with high dependency on petroleum products. Scenarios with conservative efforts might partially revert the increasing use of fossil fuels supported by policies for energy efficiency and substitution of liquid fuels with electricity mainly from renewables. However, energy shortages would still be foreseeable as well as a decay of the economy. Under a maximum efforts scenario with an optimistic availability of national oil, a moderate-sustained economic growth could be feasible. This shows that oil would still play a key role during the transition. Furthermore, ambitious policies must be implemented in the short term to smooth the effects of displacing oil as energy and income source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work analyzed the use of Microsoft HoloLens 2 in orthopedic oncological surgeries and compares it to its predecessor (Microsoft HoloLens 1). Specifically, we developed two equivalent applications, one for each device, and evaluated the augmented reality (AR) projection accuracy in an experimental scenario using phantoms based on two patients. We achieved automatic registration between virtual and real worlds using patient-specific surgical guides on each phantom. They contained a small adaptor for a 3D-printed AR marker, the characteristic patterns of which were easily recognized using both Microsoft HoloLens devices. The newest model improved the AR projection accuracy by almost 25%, and both of them yielded an RMSE below 3 mm. After ascertaining the enhancement of the second model in this aspect, we went a step further with Microsoft HoloLens 2 and tested it during the surgical intervention of one of the patients. During this experience, we collected the surgeons' feedback in terms of comfortability, usability, and ergonomics. Our goal was to estimate whether the improved technical features of the newest model facilitate its implementation in actual surgical scenarios. All of the results point to Microsoft HoloLens 2 being better in all the aspects affecting surgical interventions and support its use in future experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The free fatty acid FFA3 receptor (FFA3R) belongs to the superfamily of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). In the intestine and adipose tissue, it is involved in the regulation of energy metabolism, but its function in the brain is unknown. We aimed, first, to investigate the expression of the receptor in the hippocampus of Alzheimer disease (AD) patients at different stages of the disease and, second, to assess whether genetic inactivation of the Ffar3 gene could affect the phenotypic features of the APPswe mouse model. The expression of transcripts for FFA receptors in postmortem human hippocampal samples and in the hippocampus of wild-type and transgenic mice was analyzed by RT-qPCR. We generated a double transgenic mouse, FFA3R−/−/APPswe, to perform cognition studies and to assess, by immunoblotting Aβ and tau pathologies and the differential expression of synaptic plasticity-related proteins. For the first time, the occurrence of the FFA3R in the human hippocampus and its overexpression, even in the first stages of AD, was demonstrated. Remarkably, FFA3R−/−/APPswe mice do not have the characteristic memory impairment of 12-month-old APPswe mice. Additionally, this newly generated transgenic line does not develop the most important Alzheimer's disease (AD)-related features, such as amyloid beta (Aβ) brain accumulations and tau hyperphosphorylation. These findings are accompanied by increased levels of the insulin-degrading enzyme (IDE) and lower activity of the tau kinases GSK3β and Cdk5. We conclude that the brain FFA3R is involved in cognitive processes and that its inactivation prevents AD-like cognitive decline and pathological hallmarks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Comparable outcomes were published using a buccal mucosa graft (BMG) from the cheek and a lingual mucosa graft (LMG) from the sublingual area, for urethral augmentation or substitution. To date, no histological comparison between both grafts has been conducted. We histologically assessed BMG and LMG harvested during urethral surgeries, aiming to compare graft properties and vascular support. We conducted a prospective single cohort study, including oral mucosa urethroplasty patients. During surgery, graft dimensions and donor sites were collected, and a 0.5 × 0.5 cm sample was obtained from the prepared graft. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples were sliced at 4 micrometres (µm) and hematoxylin-eosin stained. Using a telepathology tool, all slides were digitalized and measured from 10× to 40× magnification. In each graft, global and individual layers thicknesses were assessed, including vascular density and area. Descriptive and comparative (parametrical and non-parametrical) statistical analysis occurred. We collected 57 grafts during 33 urethroplasties, with 30 BMG and 22 LMG, finally, included. The mean age was 56.6 (SD 15.2) years, and the mean graft length was 5.8 (SD 1.7) cm and the width was 1.7 (SD 0.4) cm. The median graft thickness was 1598.9 (IQR 1200–2100) µm, the mean epithelium layer was 510.2 (SD 223.7) µm, the median submucosa was 654 (IQR 378–943) µm. the median muscular was 477.6 (IQR 286–772) µm, the median vascular area was 5% (IQR 5–10), and the median adipose tissue area was 5% (IQR 0–20). LMG were significantly longer and narrower than BMG. Total graft thickness was similar between LMG and BMG, but the epithelium and submucosa layers were significantly thinner in LMG. The muscular layer was significantly thicker in LMG. Vascular density and vascular areas were not significantly different between both types of grafts. LMG showed significantly less adipose tissue compared with BMG. Our findings show LMG and BMG for urethroplasty surgeries share the same thickness and blood supply, despite having significantly different graft sizes as well as mucosal and submucosal layers thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuber melanosporum (Ascomycota, Pezizales) is an ectomycorrhizal fungus that produces highly appreciated hypogeous fruiting bodies called black truffles. The aim of this paper was to research the composition of ectomycorrhiza-associated fungal and bacterial communities in T. melanosporum oak plantations. Results of this paper showed the competitive effect of T. melanosporum on other fungal species, especially other mycorrhizal and pathogenic species. T. melanosporum was shown to be associated mainly with bacteria, some of them important for their properties as mycorrhizal helper bacteria. A dendrogram analysis of co-occurrence showed that T. melanosporum tended to co-occur with the following bacteria species: Singulisphaera limicola, Nannocistis exceedns and Sporosarcina globispora. In addition, it was linked to fungal species such as Mortierella elongata, M. minutissima, Cryptococcus uzbekistanensis, C. chernovii and C. aerius. This study provides an exhaustive analysis of the diversity, structure and composition of fungal and bacterial communities associated with T. melanosporum to enhance understanding of the biology, composition and role of these communities in truffle plantations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four models for predicting Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) were obtained through MultiLinear Regression (MLR) and an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) based on 10 meteorological indices previously selected from a feature selection algorithm. One model was developed for all sky conditions and the other three for clear, partial, and overcast skies, using a sky classification based on the clearness index (kt). The experimental data were recorded in Burgos (Spain) at ten-minute intervals over 23 months between 2019 and 2021. Fits above 0.97 and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) values below 7.5% were observed. The models developed for clear and overcast sky conditions yielded better results. Application of the models to the seven experimental ground stations that constitute the Surface Radiation Budget Network (SURFRAD) located in different Köppen climatic zones of the USA yielded fitted values higher than 0.98 and RMSE values less than 11% in all cases regardless of the sky type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal infections are common complications of respiratory viral infections and are associated with the increased need for intensive care and elevated mortality. Data regarding microbiological and molecular characteristics of such infections in COVID-19 patients are scarce. Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis, including species identification, antifungal susceptibility testing, molecular resistance determinants analysis, typing, and retrospective clinical data review, of fungal isolates recovered from 19 COVID-19 patients, who were hospitalized at the Hackensack University Medical Center (HUMC) in Hackensack, New Jersey, USA, in the initial phase of the pandemic from April–May 2020. In total, 17 Candida albicans, two C. parapsilosis, and two Aspergillus fumigatus were analyzed. All Candida spp. isolates were susceptible to micafungin and azole drugs (fluconazole, voriconazole, posaconazole, itraconazole, isavuconazole). A. fumigatus isolates were susceptible to micafungin and all triazole drugs except fluconazole (intrinsic resistance). Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) of C. albicans isolates revealed 15 different sequence types (STs), which clustered below the clade-defining limit of p-distance < 0.04. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) karyotyping revealed no chromosomal rearrangements in these isolates. A. fumigatus isolates were of different, non-related genotypes. We speculate that virus- and drug-induced immunosuppression (94.7% of the patients received corticosteroids), together with prolonged hospital stay (median duration of 29 days) and mechanical ventilation (median duration of 24 days) likely increased the susceptibility to secondary respiratory and bloodstream infections in the studied patient population. The presence of fungi in blood or respiratory tract fluid was a prognosticator for poor clinical outcome, which presented as an 89.5% 30-day mortality in our patient cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: Featured Application: Several commercially available and free downloadable PV modelling software tools are compared with real data for three different photovoltaic power plants in operation over the past 12 years. Both annual and monthly results are analyzed. Prediction of energy production is crucial for the design and installation of PV plants. In this study, five free and commercial software tools to predict photovoltaic energy production are evaluated: RETScreen, Solar Advisor Model (SAM), PVGIS, PVSyst, and PV*SOL. The evaluation involves a comparison of monthly and annually predicted data on energy supplied to the national grid with real field data collected from three real PV plants. All the systems, located in Castile and Leon (Spain), have three different tilting systems: fixed mounting, horizontal-axis tracking, and dual-axis tracking. The last 12 years of operating data, from 2008 to 2020, are used in the evaluation. Although the commercial software tools were easier to use and their installations could be described in detail, their results were not appreciably superior. In annual global terms, the results hid poor estimations throughout the year, where overestimations were compensated by underestimated results. This fact was reflected in the monthly results: the software yielded overestimates during the colder months, while the models showed better estimates during the warmer months. In most studies, the deviation was below 10% when the annual results were analyzed. The accuracy of the software was also reduced when the complexity of the dual-axis solar tracking systems replaced the fixed installation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we studied the beginnings of language development, jointly assessing two groups of precursors, sociodemographic and pre-linguistic, that have previously been studied separately. Thus, the general objective of this study was to explore which factors best explained the acquisition of initial expressive vocabulary. The sample consisted of 504 participants from Catalan-speaking homes with ages ranging between 10 and 18 months. The data were obtained through the MacArthur–Bates Communicative Development Inventories (MCB-CDIs). Vocabulary development shows a lexical spurt at 17 months. Regression analyses show that pre-linguistic factors have more explanatory power of than sociodemographic ones. Within the sociodemographic variables, age, birth order and birth weight explain part of the vocabulary variance. With respect to pre-linguistic variables, imitation, late gestures and phrase comprehension are predictors of the initial vocabulary acquisition. Specifically, imitation and late gestures were the pre-linguistic behaviours that made it possible to distinguish between children with higher and lower levels of vocabulary. We discussed these findings in relation to their relevance for language acquisition and for the early assessment of linguistic competence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical navigation techniques have shown potential benefits in orthopedic oncologic surgery. However, the translation of these results to acral tumor resection surgeries is challenging due to the large number of joints with complex movements of the affected areas (located in distal extremities). This study proposes a surgical workflow that combines an intraoperative open-source navigation software, based on a multi-camera tracking, with desktop three-dimensional (3D) printing for accurate navigation of these tumors. Desktop 3D printing was used to fabricate patient-specific 3D printed molds to ensure that the distal extremity is in the same position both in preoperative images and during image-guided surgery (IGS). The feasibility of the proposed workflow was evaluated in two clinical cases (soft-tissue sarcomas in hand and foot). The validation involved deformation analysis of the 3D-printed mold after sterilization, accuracy of the system in patient-specific 3D-printed phantoms, and feasibility of the workflow during the surgical intervention. The sterilization process did not lead to significant deformations of the mold (mean error below 0.20 mm). The overall accuracy of the system was 1.88 mm evaluated on the phantoms. IGS guidance was feasible during both surgeries, allowing surgeons to verify enough margin during tumor resection. The results obtained have demonstrated the viability of combining open-source navigation and desktop 3D printing for acral tumor surgeries. The suggested framework can be easily personalized to any patient and could be adapted to other surgical scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have found a negative impact of media use on the language of children under 5 years. This impact seems to be related to the linguistic input of their parents. However, less is known about the influence of media on language in preteens. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the use of media, the quantity of parental language input, and the linguistic level of preteens. We assessed the language level of 60 bilingual Spanish–Catalan preteens aged 11–12 years with four subtests of the Spanish version of the standardized clinical evaluation of language fundaments (CELF-5-Spanish) as well as media use at home through a multiple-choice questionnaire. Results showed lower language scores in preteens who had access to more media devices, who used them more frequently, and who talked less with their parents. Language scores were also significantly lower in preteens who used media devices to communicate compared to those who used it as a school aid or to learn new things. These results are not influenced by socioeconomic level, sex, chronological age, or family language. The present results highlight the negative impact of media use on the language level of older children, which is also related to the amount of linguistic input received from their parents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]