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The effects of phytopathogenic fungi on fruits and vegetables are a significant global concern, impacting various sectors including social, economic, environmental, and consumer health. This issue results in diminished product quality, affecting a high percentage of globally important fruits. Over the last 20 years, the use of chemical products in the agri-food sector has increased by 30%, leading to environmental problems such as harm to main pollinators, high levels of chemical residue levels, development of resistance in various phytopathogens, and health issues. As a response, various organizations worldwide have proposed programs aimed at reducing the concentration of active compounds in these products. Priority is given to alternative treatments that can mitigate environmental impact, control phytopathogens, and ensure low residuality and toxicity in fruits and vegetables. This review article presents the mechanisms of action of three alternative treatments: chitosan, citral, and hexanal. These treatments have the potential to affect the development of various pathogenic fungi found in tropical and subtropical fruits. It is important to note that further studies to verify the effects of these treatments, particularly when used in combination, are needed. Integrating the mechanisms of action of each treatment and exploring the possibility of generating a broad-spectrum effect on the development of pathogenic microorganisms in fruits is essential for a comprehensive understanding and effective management.

This study involved the evaluation of the effect of vacuum pasteurization on physicochemical characteristics (pH, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, chroma, tone, IO, vitamin C, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural), microbiological properties (Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli, total coliforms, total mesophilic aerobes, molds and yeasts) and sensory characteristics of orange and carrot nectar. The thermal treatments were designed based on the thermal lethality of two heat-resistant microorganisms typical of the product (Neosartorya fischeri and Zygosaccaromyces bailii). The evaluation was carried out on raw nectar and pasteurized nectar. The shelf life was estimated to be 30 days (6 °C). The most favorable results were obtained by applying a heat treatment at 88 °C for 32.68 min, managing to retain 85.87% of vitamin C and a microbiological stability of 12 days (6 ± 0.6 °C) with regard to total mesophilic aerobes. Likewise, the tasters established that this treatment resulted in the best flavor, texture and acceptability characteristics.

Abstract Understanding the mechanisms involved in colonic epithelial differentiation is key to unraveling the alterations causing inflammatory conditions and cancer. Organoid cultures provide an unique tool to address these questions but studies are scarce. We report a differentiation system toward enterocytes and goblet cells, the two major colonic epithelial cell lineages, using colon organoids generated from healthy tissue of colorectal cancer patients. Culture of these organoids in medium lacking stemness agents resulted in a modest ultrastructural differentiation phenotype with low-level expression of enterocyte (KLF4, KRT20, CA1, FABP2) and goblet cell (TFF2, TFF3, AGR2) lineage markers. BMP pathway activation through depletion of Noggin and addition of BMP4 resulted in enterocyte-biased differentiation. Contrarily, blockade of the Notch pathway using the γ-secretase inhibitor dibenzazepine (DBZ) favored goblet cell differentiation. Combination treatment with BMP4 and DBZ caused a balanced strong induction of both lineages. In contrast, colon tumor organoids responded poorly to BMP4 showing only weak signals of cell differentiation, and were unresponsive to DBZ. We also investigated the effects of 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol) on differentiation. Calcitriol attenuated the effects of BMP4 and DBZ on colon normal organoids, with reduced expression of differentiation genes and phenotype. Consistently, in normal organoids, calcitriol inhibited early signaling by BMP4 as assessed by reduction of the level of phospho-SMAD1/5/8. Our results show that BMP and Notch signaling play key roles in human colon stem cell differentiation to the enterocytic and goblet cell lineages and that calcitriol modulates these processes favoring stemness features.

This study aimed to assess the impact of the identified phenolic, flavonoid, and fat-soluble vitamin compounds found in Caesalpinia coriaria fruits (EC) aqueous extract on growth performance, helminth parasitic load, feeding behavior, and physiological variables in lambs. The fruits were extracted using water, and three doses of the extract as no extract (EC0 mL/lamb/day), 30 mL of aqueous extract of Caesalpinia coriaria fruits (EC30 mL/lamb/day), or 60 mL of aqueous extract of Caesalpinia coriaria fruits (EC60 mL/lamb/day) were orally administered to 24 growing crossbred lambs weighing 18-20 kg for 60 days. The HPLC analysis revealed that ferulic acid, ellagic acid, syringic acid, quercetin, and hesperidin were the predominant compounds in Caesalpinia coriaria fruits. Additionally, water-soluble vitamin compounds such as thiamine, pantothenic acid, and niacin were detected in the Caesalpinia coriaria fruit extract. The dietary administration of EC improved (P < 0.05) average daily gain and feed and water intake. EC30 lambs spent more time (P < 0.03) eating and less time ruminating. The aqueous extract also showed a dose-dependent reduction (P = 0.048) in fecal parasite egg count, with a steady decrease (P = 0.0001) as the extract was applied. EC0 lambs exhibited the highest (P < 0.0001) respiratory frequency and EC30 the lowest. A strong positive correlation was identified between rectal and abdomen temperature in the morning and afternoon measurements. The presence of phenolic and antioxidants in the aqueous extract of C. coriaria, up to 60 mL, demonstrated beneficial effects, including improved productivity, anti-parasitic activity, and mitigation of body temperature. Thus, farmers without access to synthetic drugs can use this plant extract to treat their animals during fattening to reduce gastrointestinal parasites, improve growth rate, and reduce drug residue in animal products. Further studies need to be carried out on the individual components of Caesalpinia coriaria fruits to ascertain their effect on body temperature/physiology and to know if the effects are individualistic or synergistic.

Abstract. Background. Malignant ureteral obstruction (MUO) is a common condition that complicates the course of advanced malignancies. The aims of this study are to analyze the causes, management, and survival of patients with obstructive nephropathy due to malignant ureteric obstruction and to determine prognostic factors. Furthermore, we studied the complications and outcomes in patients who underwent urinary diversion. Materials and methods. A retrospective study was conducted on patients with computed tomography–confirmed MUO between January 2016 and November 2020. Demographic, clinical, radiological, laboratory, and management data were collected. Survival curves were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to test the association between parameters and survival. Results. A total of 188 patients were included. The mean age was 69.01 years (SD, 14.95 years), and the majority (54.8%) were male. The most common mechanism leading to MUO was compression by a pelvic mass (36.9%), and the 3 most frequent tumors causing MUO were prostate (17.6%), bladder (16.5%), and rectal cancer (11.7%). Forty-seven patients (25%) underwent urinary diversion: 23 (48.9%) underwent double-J stenting and 21 (44.7%) underwent percutaneous nephrostomy. The most common reason for urinary diversion was acute kidney injury (53.3%). Recovery of renal function was observed in 55.8% of the patients after urinary diversion. The most frequently identified complications after urinary diversion were urinary tract infection (24.4%), hematuria (17.0%), and urinary sepsis (14.9%). The median survival after hydronephrosis diagnosis was 6.43 months (interquartile range, 1.91–14.81 months). In patients who underwent urinary decompression, the median survival after urinary diversion was 8.67 months (interquartile range, 2.99–17.28 months). In the multivariate analysis, a lower grade of hydronephrosis and cancer cachexia negatively impacted survival. Conclusions. Cancer patients with MUO have a poor prognosis; therefore, the risk-benefit ratio of urinary diversion should be carefully considered. Cachexia and hydronephrosis grade can be useful in selecting suitable candidates for urinary diversion.

Abstract Background Naturally occurring colorectal cancers (CRC) in rhesus macaques share many features with their human counterparts and are useful models for cancer immunotherapy; but mechanistic data are lacking regarding the comparative molecular pathogenesis of these cancers. Methods We conducted state-of-the-art imaging including CT and PET, clinical assessments, and pathological review of 24 rhesus macaques with naturally occurring CRC. Additionally, we molecularly characterized these tumors utilizing immunohistochemistry (IHC), microsatellite instability assays, DNAseq, transcriptomics, and developed a DNA methylation-specific qPCR assay for MLH1, CACNA1G, CDKN2A, CRABP1, and NEUROG1, human markers for CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP). We furthermore employed Monte-Carlo simulations to in-silico model alterations in DNA topology in transcription-factor binding site-rich promoter regions upon experimentally demonstrated DNA methylation. Results Similar cancer histology, progression patterns, and co-morbidities could be observed in rhesus as reported for human CRC patients. IHC identified loss of MLH1 and PMS2 in all cases, with functional microsatellite instability. DNA sequencing revealed the close genetic relatedness to human CRCs, including a similar mutational signature, chromosomal instability, and functionally-relevant mutations affecting KRAS (G12D), TP53 (R175H, R273*), APC, AMER1, ALK, and ARID1A. Interestingly, MLH1 mutations were rarely identified on a somatic or germline level. Transcriptomics not only corroborated the similarities of rhesus and human CRCs, but also demonstrated the significant downregulation of MLH1 but not MSH2, MSH6, or PMS2 in rhesus CRCs. Methylation-specific qPCR suggested CIMP-positivity in 9/16 rhesus CRCs, but all 16/16 exhibited significant MLH1 promoter hypermethylation. DNA hypermethylation was modelled to affect DNA topology, particularly propeller twist and roll profiles. Modelling the DNA topology of a transcription factor binding motif (TFAP2A) in the MLH1 promoter that overlapped with a methylation-specific probe, we observed significant differences in DNA topology upon experimentally shown DNA methylation. This suggests a role of transcription factor binding interference in epigenetic silencing of MLH1 in rhesus CRCs. Conclusions These data indicate that epigenetic silencing suppresses MLH1 transcription, induces the loss of MLH1 protein, abrogates mismatch repair, and drives genomic instability in naturally occurring CRC in rhesus macaques. We consider this spontaneous, uninduced CRC in immunocompetent, treatment-naïve rhesus macaques to be a uniquely informative model for human CRC. Graphical abstract

Abstract Background Infants born with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) are at high risk of respiratory insufficiency and pulmonary hypertension. Routine practice includes immediate clamping of the umbilical cord and endotracheal intubation. Experimental animal studies suggest that clamping the umbilical cord guided by physiological changes and after the lungs have been aerated, named physiological-based cord clamping (PBCC), could enhance the fetal-to-neonatal transition in CDH. We describe the statistical analysis plan for the clinical trial evaluating the effects of PBCC versus immediate cord clamping on pulmonary hypertension in infants with CDH (PinC trial). Design The PinC trial is a multicentre, randomised controlled trial in infants with isolated left-sided CDH, born ≥ 35.0 weeks of gestation. The primary outcome is the incidence of pulmonary hypertension in the first 24 h after birth. Maternal outcomes include estimated maternal blood loss. Neonatal secondary outcomes include mortality before discharge, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy, and number of days of mechanical ventilation. Infants are 1:1 randomised to either PBCC or immediate cord clamping using variable random permutated block sizes (4–8), stratified by treatment centre and estimated severity of pulmonary hypoplasia (i.e. mild/moderate/severe). At least 140 infants are needed to detect a relative reduction in pulmonary hypertension by one third, with 80% power and 0.05 significance level. A chi-square test will be used to evaluate the hypothesis that PBCC decreases the occurrence of pulmonary hypertension. This plan is written and submitted without knowledge of the collected data. The trial has been ethically approved. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04373902 (registered April 2020).

Abstract Background Clinical data warehouses provide access to massive amounts of medical images, but these images are often heterogeneous. They can for instance include images acquired both with or without the injection of a gadolinium-based contrast agent. Harmonizing such data sets is thus fundamental to guarantee unbiased results, for example when performing differential diagnosis. Furthermore, classical neuroimaging software tools for feature extraction are typically applied only to images without gadolinium. The objective of this work is to evaluate how image translation can be useful to exploit a highly heterogeneous data set containing both contrast-enhanced and non-contrast-enhanced images from a clinical data warehouse. Methods We propose and compare different 3D U-Net and conditional GAN models to convert contrast-enhanced T1-weighted (T1ce) into non-contrast-enhanced (T1nce) brain MRI. These models were trained using 230 image pairs and tested on 77 image pairs from the clinical data warehouse of the Greater Paris area. Results Validation using standard image similarity measures demonstrated that the similarity between real and synthetic T1nce images was higher than between real T1nce and T1ce images for all the models compared. The best performing models were further validated on a segmentation task. We showed that tissue volumes extracted from synthetic T1nce images were closer to those of real T1nce images than volumes extracted from T1ce images. Conclusion We showed that deep learning models initially developed with research quality data could synthesize T1nce from T1ce images of clinical quality and that reliable features could be extracted from the synthetic images, thus demonstrating the ability of such methods to help exploit a data set coming from a clinical data warehouse.

Abstract The Seed Dispersal Syndrome Hypothesis (SDSH) posits that fruit traits predict the main dispersers interacting with plant species. Mammalian dispersers, relying heavily on olfactory cues, are expected to select dull-colored, scented, and larger fruits compared to birds. However, challenges like overabundant seed predators and context-dependency of frugivore-plant interactions complicate SDSH expectations. We studied the Iberian pear, Pyrus bourgaeana, an expected mammal-dispersed tree based on its fruit traits. Extensive camera-trapping data (over 35,000 records) from several tree populations and years revealed visits from seven frugivore groups, with ungulate fruit predators (59–97%) and carnivore seed dispersers (1–20%) most frequent, while birds, lagomorphs, and rodents were infrequent (0–10%). Red deer and wild boar were also the main fruit removers in all sites and years but acted as fruit and seed predators, and thus likely exert conflicting selection pressures to those exerted by seed dispersers. Although, as predicted by the SDSH, most Iberian pear fruits were consumed by large and medium-sized mammals, the traits of Iberian pear fruits likely reflect selection pressures from dispersal vectors in past times. Our results do not challenge the SDHS but do reveal the importance of considering frugivore functional roles for its adequate evaluation.

Background and Aims: Digital single-operator cholangioscopy (DSOC) plays a critical role in directly visualizing and treating the bile duct system. Although various cholangioscopes with different external diameters are available for DSOC, certain challenging scenarios persist in which existing scopes fail to complete a thorough evaluation of the bile ducts. To overcome these limitations, we aimed to introduce and highlight the application of a novel 7F cholangioscope. Methods: In this review article we describe the novel 7F cholangioscope, provide its assembly and setup, and review cases in which the 7F cholangioscope was used for diagnostic and therapeutic guidance. Results: Four cases involving challenging biliary assessments were presented, all of which achieved technical and clinical success. No procedure-related adverse events were reported in any of these cases. Conclusions: The 7F cholangioscope can provide additional information regarding the biliary tree and guidance for treatment, overcoming the challenging assessment of small pancreatobiliary ducts and its strictures. Its potential use in cases of severe bile duct stenosis is recommended. However, further studies evaluating safety and efficacy are needed.

Abstract Background The European Reference Network for rare Inherited Congenital Anomalies, ERNICA, guidelines for gastroschisis cover perinatal period to help teams to improve care. Method A systematic literature search including 136 publications was conducted. Research findings were assessed following the GRADE methodology. The evidence to decision framework was used to determine the strength and direction of recommendations. Results The mode or timing of delivery do not impact neonatal mortality, risk of NEC or time on parenteral nutrition (PN). Intra or extra abdominal bowel dilatation predict complex gastroschisis and longer length of hospital stay but not increased perinatal mortality. Outcomes after Bianchi procedure and primary fascia closure under anesthesia are similar. Sutureless closure decreases the rate of surgical site infections and duration of ventilation compared to surgical closure. Silo-staged closure with or without intubation results in similar outcomes. Outcomes of complex gastroschisis (CG) undergoing early or delayed surgical repair are similar. Early enteral feeds starting within 14 days is associated with lower risk of surgical site infection. Recommendations The panel suggests vaginal birth between 37 and 39 w in cases of uncomplicated gastroschisis. Bianchi’s approach is an option in simple gastroschisis. Sutureless closure is suggested when general anesthesia can be avoided, sutured closure. If anesthesia is required. Silo treatment without ventilation and general anesthesia can be considered. In CG with atresia primary intestinal repair can be attempted if the condition of patient and intestine allows. Enteral feeds for simple gastroschisis should start within 14 days.

Abstract Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is a significant cause of maternal mortality globally, necessitating prompt and efficient management. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of endovascular treatment dimensions for both primary and secondary PPH, with a focus on uterine atony, trauma, placenta accreta spectrum (PAS), and retained products of conception (RPOC). Primary PPH, occurring within 24 h, often results from uterine atony in 70% of causes, but also from trauma, or PAS. Uterine atony involves inadequate myometrial contraction, addressed through uterine massage, oxytocin, and, if needed, mechanical modalities like balloon tamponade. Trauma-related PPH may stem from perineal injuries or pseudoaneurysm rupture, while PAS involves abnormal placental adherence. PAS demands early detection due to associated life-threatening bleeding during delivery. Secondary PPH, occurring within 24 h to 6 weeks postpartum, frequently arises from RPOC. Medical management may include uterine contraction drugs and hemostatic agents, but invasive procedures like dilation and curettage (D&C) or hysteroscopic resection may be required. Imaging assessments, particularly through ultrasound (US), play a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment planning of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), except for uterine atony, where imaging techniques prove to be of limited utility in its management. Computed tomography play an important role in evaluation of trauma related PPH cases and MRI is essential in diagnosing and treatment planning of PAS and RPOC. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) has become a standard intervention for refractory PPH, offering a rapid, effective, and safe alternative to surgery with a success rate exceeding 85% (Rand T. et al. CVIR Endovasc 3:1-12, 2020). The technical approach involves non-selective uterine artery embolization with resorbable gelatine sponge (GS) in semi-liquid or torpedo presentation as the most extended embolic or calibrated microspheres. Selective embolization is warranted in cases with identifiable bleeding points or RPOC with AVM-like angiographic patterns and liquid embolics could be a good option in this scenario. UAE in PAS requires a tailored approach, considering the degree of placental invasion. A thorough understanding of female pelvis vascular anatomy and collateral pathways is essential for accurate and safe UAE. In conclusion, integrating interventional radiology techniques into clinical guidelines for primary and secondary PPH management and co-working during labour is crucial. Graphical Abstract

Due to the high pollution caused by the consumption of energy from fossil fuels, governments have implemented policies that allow the transition to renewable sources, but this depends on many factors associated with the costs and attitudes of the population. This study examines the influence of perceived costs, benefits, and environmental concerns on the behavioral intentions toward renewable energy (RE) adoption in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. A structural equation model is used to validate five hypotheses and information from 511 responses to a survey to explore how perceived costs (PCO) as an independent variable, perceived benefits (PBE), and environmental concerns (ECO) as mediators support intentions to adopt solar energy technologies. Findings reveal that PCO impacts PBE and ECO directly and influences behavioral intentions (BIN) indirectly. This underscores the importance of analyzing PCO in the context of developing countries due to the low per capita income. The study identifies ECO as the most significant factor affecting BIN and PBE as the primary influencer of ECO, suggesting that promoting the benefits of RE could enhance environmental concerns and, consequently, adoption intentions. Sensitivity analysis indicates the necessity of effectively disseminating cost-related information, as costs often overshadow perceived benefits. The findings advocate for clear communication regarding RE costs and benefits and the formulation of supportive policies to facilitate RE adoption in Mexico, highlighting the crucial role of comprehensive awareness strategies in improving public perception and acceptance of RE technologies, providing valuable insights for policymakers, stakeholders, and educators to promote sustainable energy practices.

Objectives To investigate all pregnancies and analyze the factors influencing pregnancy outcomes in patients with adenomyosis after high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU).Materials and methods A total of 231 patients with adenomyosis who completed HIFU and wished to conceive were enrolled. The symptom improvement and information of pregnancy were recorded during the follow-up period. Factors influencing pregnancy outcomes were analyzed using multivariate regression analysis and survival analysis.Results After HIFU, 100 of 231 (43.3%) patients became pregnant within 96 months, including 77 (77/194, 39.7%) in natural and 23 (23/37, 62.2%) in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) pregnancies following gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa). Among the 108 (46.8%, 108/231) infertile patients (defined as the failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months of regular unprotected sexual intercourse, 40 primary infertility and 68 secondary infertility), 31 (28.7%) became pregnant. At the end of the follow-up, 70 successfully delivered 71 healthy babies. No uterine rupture occurred during pregnancy and delivery. Patients with pelvic adhesion and infertility history had a lower pregnancy chance than that of patients without pelvic adhesion and infertility history (OR < 1, p

In this study, a series of Acrylate-Styrene-Acrylonitrile (ASA) composites loaded with high amounts of cork agro-waste (10–30 wt.%) are developed to address the increasing demand from industry and society for more sustainable materials, with the aim of reducing the carbon footprint associated with fossil fuel-derived plastics. These materials are suitable for Material Extrusion (ME) technologies, including Large Format Additive Manufacturing (LFAM). We demonstrate that the printing conditions can be optimised to manufacture cork composites with good mechanical properties, even for large particle sizes, around 1 mm. Sustainability analysis of these composites revealed that the carbon footprint can be reduced by up to 25% for composites with 30 wt.% cork, primarily due to the reduction in ASA usage. These composites were used to print a luminaire utilising a biomimetic approach and parametric design, showcasing how new materials and innovative product design can be integrated to produce functional and sustainable prototypes.

This study investigates the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools within the School of Arts at a private university in Latin America, focusing on student perceptions and emotional reactions. The research addresses two primary questions: how students perceive the integration of AI tools in their educational experience, and how AI-enhanced classes affect students’ emotional reactions compared to traditional lecture-based classes. To explore the first question, we constructed the Synthetic Index of Use of Artificial Intelligence Tools (SIUAIT) to measure the perceived effects of AI usage across five dimensions: effectiveness of AI tools, implementation of ChatGPT, student proficiency, instructor proficiency, and advanced student skills. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) validated the SIUAIT, revealing an increase from 58.84 in the first semester to 60.60 in the second semester of 2023, indicating growing acceptance and perceived utility of AI tools in arts education. To address the second question, we employed advanced neuromarketing technologies, including eye tracking and facial expression analysis, to assess emotional reactions in AI-enhanced versus traditional lecture-based classes. The findings showed that AI-enhanced classes elicited more positive emotions, such as joy and surprise, compared to traditional methods. Statistical analyses, including Pearson correlation, Student’s t-test, and Kruskal-Wallis test, confirmed the significance of these differences. This comprehensive approach provides valuable insights into the benefits and challenges of integrating AI in arts education. The study highlights AI's potential to enhance educational experiences and emotional engagement while emphasizing the need for ongoing training and addressing ethical concerns to ensure the effective and equitable use of AI tools.

The investigation of orbital angular momentum (OAM) of delocalised Bloch electrons has advanced our understanding of magnetic, transport, and optical phenomena in crystals, drawing widespread interest across various materials science domains, from metals and semiconductors to topological and magnetic materials. Here, we review OAM dynamics in depth, focusing on key concepts and non-equilibrium systems, and laying the groundwork for the thriving field of orbitronics. We review briefly the conventional understanding of the equilibrium OAM based on the modern theory of orbital magnetisation. Following this, we explore recent theoretical and experimental developments in out-of-equilibrium systems. We focus on the generation of an OAM density via the orbital magneto-electric, or Edelstein effect, the generation of an OAM current via the orbital Hall effect, the orbital torque resulting from them, along with their reciprocal non-equilibrium counterparts – the inverse orbital Edelstein and inverse orbital Hall effects, as well as OAM conservation. We discuss the most salient achievements and the most pressing challenges in this rapidly evolving field, and in closing we highlight the future prospects of orbitronics.

ABSTRACTDengvaxia is the first dengue vaccine recommended in the United States (U.S.). It is recommended for children aged 9–16 y with laboratory-confirmed previous dengue infection and living in areas where dengue is endemic. We conducted focus groups with parents and in-depth interviews with key informants (i.e. practicing pediatricians, physicians from immunization clinics, university researchers, and school officials) in Puerto Rico (P.R.) to examine acceptability, barriers, and motivators to vaccinate with Dengvaxia. We also carried out informal meetings and semi-structured interviews to evaluate key messages and educational materials with pediatricians and parents. Barriers to vaccination included lack of information, distrust toward new vaccines, vaccine side effects and risks, and high cost of/lack of insurance coverage for laboratory tests and vaccines. Motivators included clear information about the vaccine, a desire to prevent future dengue infections, the experience of a previous dengue infection or awareness of dengue fatality, vaccine and laboratory tests covered by health insurance, availability of rapid test results and vaccine appointments. School officials and parents agreed parents would pay a deductible of $5–20 for Dengvaxia. For vaccine information dissemination, parents preferred an educational campaign through traditional media and social media, and one-on-one counseling of parents by healthcare providers. Education about this vaccine to healthcare providers will help them answer parents’ questions. Dengvaxia acceptability in P.R. will increase by addressing motivators and barriers to vaccination and by disseminating vaccine information in plain language through spokespersons from health institutions in P.R.

ABSTRACTMutations are the result of effects produced by mutagenic agents, which may be responsible for the generation of chronic-degenerative diseases such as cancer. The aim of this work was to detect and characterize compounds with antimutagenic activity in white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) cephalothorax. A serial extraction was carried out where different organic solvents, and its biological activity was evaluated. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated by DPPH and ABTS assay, where the methanol and water-soluble extracts had the highest antioxidant capacity. Antimutagenicity was evaluated by the Ames test, where the methanol-soluble extract showed the highest antimutagenic activity. The methanolic extract was fractionated by open column chromatography, the fractions obtained were determined antioxidant and antimutagenic activity and the ability to protect DNA from oxidative damage. Fraction H27 provided DNA the highest protection against the damage caused by H2O2. Partial chemical-characterization of fraction H27 suggests the presence of aromatic, hydroxylated, unsaturated compounds.

AbstractThis study aims to assess the adoption and impact of Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) tools in higher education, focusing on a private university in Latin America. Guided by the question, “What is the impact, as perceived by university students, of using Artificial Intelligence tools on various dimensions of learning and teaching within the context of higher education?” the study employs a rigorously validated 30-item instrument to examine five key dimensions: 1) Effectiveness use of A.I. tools, 2) Effectiveness use of ChatGPT, 3) Student’s proficiency using A.I. tools, 4) Teacher’s proficiency in A.I. and 5) Advanced student skills in A.I. These dimensions form a synthetic index used for comprehensive evaluation. Targeting 4,127 students from the university’s schools of Engineering, Business, and Arts, the study garnered 21,449 responses, analyzed using Confirmatory Factor Analysis for validity. Findings indicate a significantly positive impact of A.I. tools on student academic experiences, including enhanced comprehension, creativity, and productivity. Importantly, the study identifies areas with low and high A.I. integration, serving as an institutional diagnostic tool. The data underscores the importance of A.I. proficiency among both educators and students, advocating for its integration as a pedagogical evolution rather than just a technological shift. This research has critical implications for data-driven decision-making in higher education, offering a robust framework for institutions aiming to navigate the complexities of A.I. implementation.

Systems of correlated particles appear in many fields of modern science and represent some of the most intractable computational problems in nature. The computational challenge in these systems arises when interactions become comparable to other energy scales, which makes the state of each particle depend on all other particles1. The lack of general solutions for the three-body problem and acceptable theory for strongly correlated electrons shows that our understanding of correlated systems fades when the particle number or the interaction strength increases. One of the hallmarks of interacting systems is the formation of multiparticle bound states2-9. Here we develop a high-fidelity parameterizable fSim gate and implement the periodic quantum circuit of the spin-½ XXZ model in a ring of 24 superconducting qubits. We study the propagation of these excitations and observe their bound nature for up to five photons. We devise a phase-sensitive method for constructing the few-body spectrum of the bound states and extract their pseudo-charge by introducing a synthetic flux. By introducing interactions between the ring and additional qubits, we observe an unexpected resilience of the bound states to integrability breaking. This finding goes against the idea that bound states in non-integrable systems are unstable when their energies overlap with the continuum spectrum. Our work provides experimental evidence for bound states of interacting photons and discovers their stability beyond the integrability limit.

The advent of X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) has revolutionized fundamental science, from atomic to condensed matter physics, from chemistry to biology, giving researchers access to X-rays with unprecedented brightness, coherence and pulse duration. All XFEL facilities built until recently provided X-ray pulses at a relatively low repetition rate, with limited data statistics. Here, results from the first megahertz-repetition-rate X-ray scattering experiments at the Spectroscopy and Coherent Scattering (SCS) instrument of the European XFEL are presented. The experimental capabilities that the SCS instrument offers, resulting from the operation at megahertz repetition rates and the availability of the novel DSSC 2D imaging detector, are illustrated. Time-resolved magnetic X-ray scattering and holographic imaging experiments in solid state samples were chosen as representative, providing an ideal test-bed for operation at megahertz rates. Our results are relevant and applicable to any other non-destructive XFEL experiments in the soft X-ray range.

Teaching and learning Calculus concepts and procedures, particularly the definite integral concept, is a challenge for teachers and students in their academic careers. In this research, we supplement the analysis made by different authors, applying the theoretical and methodological tools of the Onto-Semiotic Approach to mathematical knowledge and instruction. The goal is to understand the diverse meanings of the concept of the definite integral and potentials semiotic conflicts based on the given data. We focus attention on a first intuitive meaning, which involves mainly arithmetic knowledge, and the definite integral formal meaning as Riemann's sums limit predominantly in the curricular guidelines. The recognition of the onto-semiotic complexity of mathematics objects is considered as a key factor in explaining the learning difficulties of concepts, procedures and its application for problem-solving, as well as to make grounded decisions on teaching. The methodology analysis of a mathematical text, which we exemplify in this work applying the tools of Onto-Semiotic Approach, provides a microscopic level of analysis that allows us to identify some semiotic-cognitive facts of didactic interest. This also allows for the identification of some epistemic strata, that is, institutional knowledge that should have been previously studied, which usually goes unnoticed in the teaching process.

Antecedentes: La valoración de la fuerza muscular es de interés para la investigación de patologías como la fragilidad y la sarcopenia; sin embargo, el costo de algunos instrumentos necesarios para su evaluación podría ser una limitante en algunos escenarios. Objetivo: Comparar dos dinamómetros para comparar la concordancia entre las mediciones. Material y métodos: El estudio se realizó en una clínica ambulatoria de geriatría. Se evaluaron 120 participantes de 60 años y más provenientes de la comunidad. Se utilizó el dinamómetro manual hidráulico Jamar® y el dinamómetro manual digital Camry® EH101. Resultados: Se observó correlación positiva entre los dos instrumentos para la mano dominante (MD), con r de Pearson = 0.974 (p < 0.001) y ρ de Spearman = 0.973 (p < 0.001) para la mano no dominante (MND). El coeficiente de concordancia de Lin para la MD fue de 0.98 (p < 0.001) y para la MND, de 0.97 (p < 0.001) El coeficiente de correlación intraclase fue de 0.971 (IC 95 % = 0.95-0.97, p < 0.001) para MD y de 0.975 (IC 95 % = 0.96-0.98, p < 0.001) para MND. Conclusiones: El dinamómetro digital es un instrumento confiable para la medición de la fuerza de prensión en personas mayores de 60 años provenientes de la comunidad.

To improve current data systems for institutional decision-making, the Adult Liver Transplant Registry was established at the Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Argentina. This article describes its design and implementation and reports on the outcomes for patients transplanted since its January 2020 launch. A multidisciplinary team designed the registry by identifying key variables from a literature review while considering balance between data depth and feasibility. Rigorous quality control measures were enforced, including monthly audits and staff training. Benchmark indicators for post-transplant outcomes were established. As of November 2023, the registry included 136 transplants. Its implementation and maintenance were straightforward, with no significant difficulties encountered. Cirrhosis was the predominant indication (77%) for transplant. Only one living donor transplantation was performed. Post-transplant results generally aligned with benchmarks, but rates of biliary complications slightly exceeded the recommended thresholds. The one-year post-transplant survival rate was 87%. The successful registry implementation provides a robust framework for research, treatment management, and patient care enhancement within a liver transplant unit.

The present collection of piano rolls was donated in 2015 to one of the five most outstanding sound archives within the United States of America, in particular, the Archive of Recorded Sound which belongs to Stanford University. This collection was found after several documentary searches through the web and its study turned out to be an interesting project. After two months of field research, we were able to obtain all the data necessary for the preparation of a complete catalogue of this collection, which allowed us both to compile the names of the authors and the titles of the works, and to identify and describe the related typologies, musical styles or genres. Furthermore, we photographed the documents and collected further information for a subsequent and exhaustive bibliographic catalogue.

En este estudio se biofuncionalizó yogur caprino mediante la incorporación de un extracto de Hibiscus sinensis (HS) obtenido en el laboratorio. Para ello se ensayaron cuatro condiciones de extracción sólido:líquido de bioactivos de pétalos de HS: dos extractos acuosos a temperatura de ebullición (infusión y decocción) y dos extractos con mezcla etanol:agua a temperatura ambiente de 25ºC (etanol:agua 70:30 y 50:50). Los extractos se caracterizaron mediante el análisis de pH, acidez titulable, color, sólidos totales (ST), actividad antioxidante (AAO) y contenido de fenoles totales (FT). Se seleccionó el extracto que presentó mejores propiedades y se determinó su toxicidad. El extracto etanólico 70:30 fue seleccionado por presentar la mejor AAO (IC50 33,9 ± 0,4 µg/mL), mayor contenido de FT (145±5 mgAGE/gST) y de ST (18,6±0,8 g/mL). La concentración letal hallada (554,84 ± 5,1 ppm) permitió fijar el límite máximo de incorporación de extracto de HS al yogur caprino. Se elaboraron yogures en cinco niveles de incorporación de extracto de HS, 0 ppm (control) (C0), 100 ppm (C1), 200 ppm (C2), 300 ppm (C3) y 400 ppm (C4). Se analizó en las muestras el pH, acidez titulable, textura, porcentaje de sinéresis, color y actividad antioxidante, en los días 1, 7, 14, 21 y 28 de almacenamiento refrigerado a 4°C. Se observó que las concentraciones entre C1 - C3 producen disminución del pH e incremento de acidez hasta el día 21. A partir del día 14 la sinéresis disminuye a medida que se incrementa la concentración de HS. La actividad antioxidante incrementó de forma concomitante al aumento de HS. Se seleccionaron los yogures C3 por presentar mejores resultados y se sometieron a análisis sensorial por panel de consumidores, junto al control. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en la textura y el sabor de las muestras. El agregado de HS aumentó la valoración global del yogur caprino.

Abstract Previous studies have demonstrated that vegetation‐generated turbulence can enhance erosion rate and reduce the velocity threshold for erosion of non‐cohesive sediment. This study considered whether vegetation‐generated turbulence had a similar influence on natural cohesive sediment. Cores were collected from a black mangrove forest with aboveground biomass and exposed to stepwise increases in velocity. Erosion was recorded through suspended sediment concentration. For the same velocity, cores with pneumatophores had elevated turbulent kinetic energy compared to bare cores without pneumatophores. However, the vegetation‐generated turbulence did not increase bed stress or the rate of resuspension, relative to bare cores. It was hypothesized that the short time‐scale fluctuations associated with vegetation‐generated turbulence were not of sufficient duration to break cohesion between grains, explaining why elevated levels of turbulence associated with the pneumatophores had no impact on the erosion threshold or rate.

En la legislación española se ha establecido un nuevo reglamento el cual pretende fomentar la inversión sostenible, situación por la que se debe de interrelacionar con la protección del inversor por parte del marco jurídico de España. El deber de protección del inversor que se aplica por parte de las entidades financieras en la prestación de sus servicios y en la venta de productos financieros puede encontrarse comprometida ante el reciente Reglamento 2021/1253. Se establece que las entidades financieras a la hora de aplicar el test de idoneidad y el test de conveniencia se debe de consultar sobre las preferencias de inversión sostenible. Los autores pretenden aportar valor facilitando un debate sobre la eficacia y el efecto en la protección del inversión mediante un análisis crítico de la normativa legal.

Limited preemergence herbicides are registered for new blackberry (Rubus subgenus Rubus) plantings. This greenhouse experiment was designed to investigate the effects of a broad selection of preemergence herbicides at multiple rates on blackberry transplants. Screening was initiated Aug 2021 and repeated Mar 2022 in Fayetteville, AR, USA, in a greenhouse at the Milo J. Shult Agricultural Research and Extension Center. ‘Ouachita’ blackberry plugs were transplanted into utility pots that contained field soil and growth media treated with preemergence herbicides. After transplanting, plant height was measured from the substrate to the highest apical meristem of 25 representative plants. Initial blackberry plant heights were 13.5 and 9.2 cm in 2021 and 2022, respectively. Twenty-five treatments were evaluated, consisting of 12 preemergence herbicides at 1× and 2× field rates, and one untreated control. Herbicide treatments included diuron, flumioxazin, halosulfuron, indaziflam, mesotrione, napropamide, oryzalin, pendimethalin, rimsulfuron, S-metolachlor, simazine, and sulfentrazone applied to substrate in containers at their respective 1× or 2× field rates. Data were collected on plant height, blackberry injury ratings, internode length, leaf chlorophyll content, and destructive harvest, including leaf count, leaf dry biomass, and aboveground dry biomass. Specific leaf areas and leaf area-to-dry matter ratios were calculated. When observed, plant injury tended to increase from 7 days after treatment (DAT) until 42 DAT. Greater injury levels were observed in response to treatment with mesotrione at the 1× (78%) and 2× rates (90%), halosulfuron at the 1× rate (58%), halosulfuron at the 2× rate (68%), and diuron at the 2× rate (73%). Injury from diuron was rate dependent, with the 1× rate causing relatively low injury (19%). At both the 1× and 2× rates, flumioxazin, indaziflam, napropamide, S-metolachlor, and pendimethalin treatments exhibited similar responses to the untreated control.

Introducción. La infección por el virus de papiloma humano es la infección viral de transmisión sexual más frecuente, que puede ser prevenida con conocimiento y actitudes que promuevan el sexo seguro. Los hombres son un importante eslabón en la transmisión al ser portadores asintomáticos del virus, situación que ignoran. El objetivo del estudio es determinar si los conocimientos y la percepción de riesgo para VPH se asocian a la infección subclínica. Metodología. Se realizó un estudio prospectivo, transversal y analítico que incluyó a 164 varones entre 18 y 45 años, que se autoseleccionaron para participar. Se utilizó un instrumento autoaplicable para medir la percepción de riesgo y el conocimiento hacia el VPH que constó de 10 reactivos tipo escala Likert, los cuales 5 midieron percepción de riesgo y 5 conocimientos. La identificación del virus en genitales se realizó con biología molecular. Resultados. La media de edad fue de 29 años, la prevalencia del Papilomavirus fue del 24 %, el 68 % de la población estudiada presentó una alta percepción de riesgo para adquirir el virus; 30 % medio y solamente el 2 % tuvo una percepción de riesgo baja. Respecto a los resultados de conocimiento el 88 % tiene un nivel alto y el 12 % medio. No se encontró asociación entre el nivel de conocimientos (p = 0.53299) y la percepción de riesgo (p = 0.53299) con la infección. Conclusión. No se encontró asociación entre conocimiento y percepción de riesgo con la infección asintomática por VPH.