Search

Abstract Currently, there are no national and international certified reference materials (CRM) in lithium clays that can make reliable and traceable lithium measurements for the International System of Units (SI). Hence, it is necessary to have references to meet the needs in terms of mining and activities that involve the use of lithium to favor the economy derived from its multiple uses and associated benefits in the exploration, exploitation, and handling of lithium ore. In this study, a candidate for reference material (RM) of Li in clays was developed and certified based on the provisions of ISO 17034:2016 and ISO Guide 35:2017. Different mass sizes of the RM (0.05, 0.1, and 0.25 g) were used to evaluate homogeneity. An isochronous study (short-term stability) was carried out in the assessment of stability, influenced by the effects of transport at different temperatures (20, 40, and 50 °C) for a determined time of 6 weeks, in addition to a classic (long-term) study for 19 weeks. The sample was treated using microwave-assisted acid digestion and Li measurements were performed using the analytical technique of Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (FAAS). The CRM is homogeneous for the sample mass sizes of 0.05 and 0.1 g, and the mass fraction of w(Li) was stable in the RM for temperatures of 20, 40, and 50 °C. The determined period of validity was 3 years.

Abstract Isolated attosecond pulse (IAP) generation usually involves the use of short-medium gas cells operated at high pressures. In contrast, long-medium schemes at low pressures are commonly perceived as inherently unsuitable for IAP generation due to the nonlinear phenomena that challenge favourable phase-matching conditions. Here we provide clear experimental evidence on the generation of isolated extreme-ultraviolet attosecond pulses in a semi-infinite gas cell, demonstrating the use of extended-medium geometries for effective production of IAPs. To gain a deeper understanding we develop a simulation method for high-order harmonic generation (HHG), which combines nonlinear propagation with macroscopic HHG solving the 3D time-dependent Schrödinger equation at the single-atom level. Our simulations reveal that the nonlinear spatio-temporal reshaping of the driving field, observed in the experiment as a bright plasma channel, acts as a self-regulating mechanism boosting the phase-matching conditions for the generation of IAPs.

Abstract Advancements in dermatological artificial intelligence research require high-quality and comprehensive datasets that mirror real-world clinical scenarios. We introduce a collection of 18,946 dermoscopic images spanning from 2010 to 2016, collated at the Hospital Clínic in Barcelona, Spain. The BCN20000 dataset aims to address the problem of unconstrained classification of dermoscopic images of skin cancer, including lesions in hard-to-diagnose locations such as those found in nails and mucosa, large lesions which do not fit in the aperture of the dermoscopy device, and hypo-pigmented lesions. Our dataset covers eight key diagnostic categories in dermoscopy, providing a diverse range of lesions for artificial intelligence model training. Furthermore, a ninth out-of-distribution (OOD) class is also present on the test set, comprised of lesions which could not be distinctively classified as any of the others. By providing a comprehensive collection of varied images, BCN20000 helps bridge the gap between the training data for machine learning models and the day-to-day practice of medical practitioners. Additionally, we present a set of baseline classifiers based on state-of-the-art neural networks, which can be extended by other researchers for further experimentation.

Abstract Linearly polarized vector beams are structured lasers whose topology is characterized by a well-defined Poincaré index, which is a topological invariant during high-order harmonic generation. As such, harmonics are produced as extreme-ultraviolet vector beams that inherit the topology of the driver. This holds for isotropic targets such as noble gases, but analogous behaviour in crystalline solids is still open to discussion. Here, we demonstrate that this conservation rule breaks in crystalline solids, in virtue of their anisotropic non-linear susceptibility. We identify the topological properties of the harmonic field as unique probes, sensitive to both the microscopic and macroscopic features of the target’s complex non-linear response. Our simulations, performed in single-layer graphene, show that the harmonic field is split into a multi-beam structure whose topology encodes information about laser-driven electronic dynamics. Our work promotes the topological analysis of the high-order harmonic field as a spectroscopic tool to reveal the nonlinearities in the coupling of light and target symmetries.

The increasing prevalence of diabetes worldwide, including in Mexico, presents significant challenges to healthcare systems. This has a notable impact on hospital admissions, as diabetes is considered an ambulatory care-sensitive condition, meaning that hospitalizations could be avoided. This is just one example of many challenges faced in the medical and public health fields. Traditional healthcare methods have been effective in managing diabetes and preventing complications. However, they often encounter limitations when it comes to analyzing large amounts of health data to effectively identify and address diseases. This paper aims to bridge this gap by outlining a comprehensive methodology for non-physicians, particularly data scientists, working in healthcare. As a case study, this paper utilizes hospital diabetes discharge records from 2010 to 2023, totaling 36,665,793 records from medical units under the Ministry of Health of Mexico. We aim to highlight the importance for data scientists to understand the problem and its implications. By doing so, insights can be generated to inform policy decisions and reduce the burden of avoidable hospitalizations. The approach primarily relies on stratification and standardization to uncover rates based on sex and age groups. This study provides a foundation for data scientists to approach health data in a new way.

BackgroundFunctional impairment is one of the most decisive prognostic factors in patients with complex chronic diseases. A more significant functional impairment indicates that the disease is progressing, which requires implementing diagnostic and therapeutic actions that stop the exacerbation of the disease. ObjectiveThis study aimed to predict alterations in the clinical condition of patients with complex chronic diseases by predicting the Barthel Index (BI), to assess their clinical and functional status using an artificial intelligence model and data collected through an internet of things mobility device. MethodsA 2-phase pilot prospective single-center observational study was designed. During both phases, patients were recruited, and a wearable activity tracker was allocated to gather physical activity data. Patients were categorized into class A (BI≤20; total dependence), class B (2060; moderate or mild dependence, or independent). Data preprocessing and machine learning techniques were used to analyze mobility data. A decision tree was used to achieve a robust and interpretable model. To assess the quality of the predictions, several metrics including the mean absolute error, median absolute error, and root mean squared error were considered. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS and Python for the machine learning modeling. ResultsOverall, 90 patients with complex chronic diseases were included: 50 during phase 1 (class A: n=10; class B: n=20; and class C: n=20) and 40 during phase 2 (class B: n=20 and class C: n=20). Most patients (n=85, 94%) had a caregiver. The mean value of the BI was 58.31 (SD 24.5). Concerning mobility aids, 60% (n=52) of patients required no aids, whereas the others required walkers (n=18, 20%), wheelchairs (n=15, 17%), canes (n=4, 7%), and crutches (n=1, 1%). Regarding clinical complexity, 85% (n=76) met patient with polypathology criteria with a mean of 2.7 (SD 1.25) categories, 69% (n=61) met the frailty criteria, and 21% (n=19) met the patients with complex chronic diseases criteria. The most characteristic symptoms were dyspnea (n=73, 82%), chronic pain (n=63, 70%), asthenia (n=62, 68%), and anxiety (n=41, 46%). Polypharmacy was presented in 87% (n=78) of patients. The most important variables for predicting the BI were identified as the maximum step count during evening and morning periods and the absence of a mobility device. The model exhibited consistency in the median prediction error with a median absolute error close to 5 in the training, validation, and production-like test sets. The model accuracy for identifying the BI class was 91%, 88%, and 90% in the training, validation, and test sets, respectively. ConclusionsUsing commercially available mobility recording devices makes it possible to identify different mobility patterns and relate them to functional capacity in patients with polypathology according to the BI without using clinical parameters.

Hoy en día, las instalaciones donde se trabaja se equiparan a la –segunda– casa de los empleados, estos brindan su tiempo, esforzándose en convivencia con otros compañeros y compañeras para el logro de los objetivos organizacionales. Dentro de las organizaciones existen experiencias que se pueden asociar a sensaciones agradables y percepciones de entornos amistosos (como lo son los incentivos laborales, las salidas por solicitud, trato con compañeros o compañeras en algún receso) o de asfixia u opresión (como horarios prolongados, saturaciones de trabajo o amenazas de desempleo). Por lo que es necesario entender que los factores personales (como el compromiso, la motivación, la comunicación o las actitudes) y organizacionales (como el liderazgo, los métodos de trabajo, el clima organizacional, los espacios de trabajo y los riesgos) pueden ser fácilmente volubles o variables que afectan asimismo el comportamiento y el desempeño de los empleados. La metodología utilizada en este estudio fue descriptiva, transversal y con enfoque cuantitativo. Su objetivo fue el siguiente: diagnosticar el clima organizacional laboral que es percibido por el personal administrativo de una Facultad de la zona Xalapa de la Universidad Veracruzana. Tras el análisis de los hallazgos, se concluye que el clima organizacional laboral en la entidad de estudio es bueno.

Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) typically exhibit a predictable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic response at a fixed dose, not necessitating monitoring under standard conditions. Yet, in specific clinical scenarios that can impair it, like Congenital Nephrotic Syndrome (CNS) or Short Bowel Syndrome (SBS) due to absorption issues, anti-thrombin III (AT-III) deficiency and non-selective proteinuria, adjusting the dosage to achieve appropriate plasma concentrations could prove beneficial. We report a 3-month-old female with catheter-related jugular thrombosis affected by CNS concomitant to SBS and failure of both treatments with heparin and warfarin, that was switched to dose-adjusted pediatric rivaroxaban. Rivaroxaban was adjusted to reach peak levels between 189 and 419 ng/ml and the lower trough levels between 6 and 87 ng/ml. Increasing doses were needed due to SBS related malabsorption but a complete permeabilization of the vein was achieved without bleeding complications. The use of anti-Xa adjusted rivaroxaban could be an alternative to improve anticoagulation and secondary thromboprophylaxis in pediatric patients SBS and an option to children with CNS.

Neurotrophins and their receptors are distinctly expressed during brain development and play crucial roles in the formation, survival, and function of neurons in the nervous system. Among these molecules, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has garnered significant attention due to its involvement in regulating GABAergic system development and function. In this review, we summarize and compare the expression patterns and roles of neurotrophins and their receptors in both the developing and adult brains of rodents, macaques, and humans. Then, we focus on the implications of BDNF in the development and function of GABAergic neurons from the cortex and the striatum, as both the presence of BDNF single nucleotide polymorphisms and disruptions in BDNF levels alter the excitatory/inhibitory balance in the brain. This imbalance has different implications in the pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental diseases like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Rett syndrome (RTT), and schizophrenia (SCZ). Altogether, evidence shows that neurotrophins, especially BDNF, are essential for the development, maintenance, and function of the brain, and disruptions in their expression or signaling are common mechanisms in the pathophysiology of brain diseases.

At present, the development of animation-based works for human–computer interaction applications has increased. To generate animations, actions are pre-recorded and animation flows are configured. In this research, from two images of letters of the sign language alphabet, intermediate frames were generated using a numerical traced algorithm based on homotopy. The parameters of a homotopy curve were optimized with a genetic algorithm to generate intermediate frames. In the experiments performed, sequences where a person executes pairs of letters in sign language were recorded and animations of the same pairs of letters were generated with the proposed method. Subsequently, the similarity of the real sequences to the animations was measured using Dynamic Time Wrapping. The results obtained show that the images obtained are consistent with their execution by a person. Animation files between sign pairs were created from sign images, with each file weighing an average of 18.3 KB. By having sequences between pairs of letters it is possible to animate words and sentences. The animations generated by this homotopy-based animation method optimized with a genetic algorithm can be used in various deaf interaction applications to provide assistance. From several pairs of letters a file base was generated using the animations between pairs of letters; with these files you can create animations of words and sentences.

Machine learning technologies are being integrated into robotic systems faster to enhance their efficacy and adaptability in dynamic environments. The primary goal of this research was to propose a method to develop an Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) that integrates Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM), odometry, and artificial vision based on deep learning (DL). All are executed on a high-performance Jetson Nano embedded system, specifically emphasizing SLAM-based obstacle avoidance and path planning using the Adaptive Monte Carlo Localization (AMCL) algorithm. Two Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) were selected due to their proven effectiveness in image and pattern recognition tasks. The ResNet18 and YOLOv3 algorithms facilitate scene perception, enabling the robot to interpret its environment effectively. Both algorithms were implemented for real-time object detection, identifying and classifying objects within the robot’s environment. These algorithms were selected to evaluate their performance metrics, which are critical for real-time applications. A comparative analysis of the proposed DL models focused on enhancing vision systems for autonomous mobile robots. Several simulations and real-world trials were conducted to evaluate the performance and adaptability of these models in navigating complex environments. The proposed vision system with CNN ResNet18 achieved an average accuracy of 98.5%, a precision of 96.91%, a recall of 97%, and an F1-score of 98.5%. However, the YOLOv3 model achieved an average accuracy of 96%, a precision of 96.2%, a recall of 96%, and an F1-score of 95.99%. These results underscore the effectiveness of the proposed intelligent algorithms, robust embedded hardware, and sensors in robotic applications. This study proves that advanced DL algorithms work well in robots and could be used in many fields, such as transportation and assembly. As a consequence of the findings, intelligent systems could be implemented more widely in the operation and development of AMRs.

Introduction Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease is a major public health problem considering its high prevalence and its strong association with extrahepatic diseases. Implementing strategies based on an intermittent fasting approach and supervised exercise may mitigate the risks. This study aims to investigate the effects of a 12-week time-restricted eating (TRE) intervention combined with a supervised exercise intervention, compared with TRE or supervised exercise alone and with a usual-care control group, on hepatic fat (primary outcome) and cardiometabolic health (secondary outcomes) in adults with obesity.Methods and analysis An anticipated 184 adults with obesity (50% women) will be recruited from Granada (south of Spain) for this parallel-group, randomised controlled trial (TEMPUS). Participants will be randomly designated to usual care, TRE alone, supervised exercise alone or TRE combined with supervised exercise, using a parallel design with a 1:1:1:1 allocation ratio. The TRE and TRE combined with supervised exercise groups will select an 8-hour eating window before the intervention and will maintain it over the intervention. The exercise alone and TRE combined with exercise groups will perform 24 sessions (2 sessions per week+walking intervention) of supervised exercise combining resistance and aerobic high-intensity interval training. All participants will receive nutritional counselling throughout the intervention. The primary outcome is change from baseline to 12 weeks in hepatic fat; secondary outcomes include measures of cardiometabolic health.Ethics and dissemination This study was approved by Granada Provincial Research Ethics Committee (CEI Granada—0365-N-23). All participants will be asked to provide written informed consent. The findings will be disseminated in scientific journals and at international scientific conferences.Trial registration number NCT05897073.

Las suspensiones de construcciones sintácticas previamente iniciadas son fenómenos muy frecuentes en la conversación cotidiana. En muchos casos suelen asociarse a la negociación del cambio de turno. Esta última situación puede describirse como particular transfor- mación por la cual un déficit literal en la expresión es reevaluado por los inter-locutores en tanto que medio simbólico para el ejercicio de determinadas funciones pragmáticas o para la expresión de determinados significados. Exploramos aquí diferentes contextos en que estas funciones y estos significados se manifiestan, teniendo en cuenta inter- acciones conversacionales entre sujetos afásicos y hablantes normales (esto es, no afásicos), y asumiendo el interés del fenómeno para la evaluación de la afasia. Al estimular la interacción, las construcciones suspendidas contribuyen al dinamismo conversacional, pero esta función de apoyo puede presentar como contrapartida un efecto enmascarador del déficit sintáctico que limitaría el proceso de recuperación.

The cerebellum is an encephalic region classically known for its central role in the control of movement, although recent research has revealed its involvement in other cognitive and affective tasks. Several different pathologies are known to affect this structure, causing a wide range of behavioral and gait impairments. Intriguingly, although the neurodegenerative factors affect all Purkinje cells of the cerebellum uniformly, certain neurodegeneration patterns can be distinguished, in which some Purkinje cells persist longer than other cell types. Specifically, there is a cerebellar region, lobe X, which is more resistant to different types of neurodegeneration, regardless of the injury. Degeneration patterns of the cerebellum have been described in several models, but this review goes further, as it aims at describing a phenomenon not so described: the resistance of the lobe X to neurodegeneration. For this purpose, the main models of cerebellar degeneration will be reviewed and a common origin for the lobe X resistance will be sought.

Background: COVID-19 vaccines that trigger a strong secretory antibody response in breast milk may achieve effective passive protection of vulnerable newborns and breastfed infants of immunized mothers. The aim of this work was to investigate the presence of SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD-specific IgA and IgG antibodies in breast milk, 5 and 9 weeks after vaccination with 3 doses of the protein subunit vaccine Abdala, compared to those found in breast milk from COVID-19-recovered women, collected at least 40 days after the infection. Methods: SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD-specific IgA and IgG antibodies were semi-quantified by indirect ELISA, using a homemade standard generated by pooling twenty breast milk samples with high absorbance values according to preliminary data. The validity of the standard curves was proved following the European Medicines Agency Guideline. Two breast milk samples from 2 unvaccinated women who had not been infected with COVID-19 were included as negative controls. Potentially neutralizing antibodies was assessed by a SARS-CoV-2 surrogate virus neutralization test. Results: High levels of anti-RBD IgA antibodies were detected in breast milk samples 9 weeks after vaccination and anti-RBD IgG antibodies rise from the fifth to the ninth week. In the post-COVID-19 time that was evaluated, the IgG-type response was notably higher compared to both post-vaccination periods. Neutralizing antibody titers were similar in breast milk from vaccinated and COVID-19 recovered women. Conclusions: This is the first report about the immune response in breast milk after the administration of a COVID-19 protein subunit vaccine, which could provide analogous protection to that conferred by SARS-CoV-2 infection. This implies a potential passive immunity that breastfed infants receive from their mothers vaccinated with Abdala.

Abstract Growth alterations have been described in patients operated on for oral clefts. The purpose of this work was to analyze the craniofacial and palate morphology and dimensions of young adults operated on for oral clefts in early childhood in Spain. Eighty-three patients from eight different hospitals were divided into four groups based on their type of cleft: cleft lip (CL, n = 6), unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP, n = 37), bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP, n = 16), and cleft palate only (CPO, n = 24). A control group was formed of 71 individuals. Three-dimensional (3D) digital models were obtained from all groups with an intraoral scanner, together with cephalometries and frontal, lateral, and submental facial photographs. Measurements were obtained and analyzed statistically. Our results showed craniofacial alterations in the BCLP, UCLP, and CPO groups with an influence on the palate, maxilla, and mandible and a direct impact on facial appearance. This effect was more severe in the BCLP group. Measurements in the CL group were similar to those in the control group. Cleft characteristics and cleft type seem to be the main determining factors of long-term craniofacial growth alterations in these patients. Prospective research is needed to clearly delineate the effects of different treatments on the craniofacial appearance of adult cleft patients.

In Mexico, Nayarit and Veracruz stand out as producers of Persian lemon. Nayarit has a larger surface area with high production potential and a 68% expansion of its cultivated area in the last 10 years. Veracruz has larger planted area and production volume. This investigation was conducted aiming to determine the period of nutritional stability in Persian lemon leaves and define the appropriate time to perform foliar sampling for nutritional diagnosis. In 2017, rainfed orchards were selected in both states. Per orchard, 20 trees were selected, 50 shoots were marked per flow (Nayarit winter and summer, Veracruz winter and spring), and sampled monthly. Soil and foliar nutrient analysis was performed (total nitrogen (N-total) (semi-microKjeldahl digestion), nitrates (NO3) (colorimetry), potassium (K) (atomic absorption), phosphorus (P), sulfur (S), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn), (ICP-Optical Coupled Plasma using an ICAP 7200 spectrophotometer (Thermo Scientific®), and boron (B) (colorimetry) (Genesis 20 spectrophotometer (Thermo Scientific®)). Daily predicted values were calculated and the best functions (highest R2, lowest mean square of the error and value of the Mallows coefficient) were chosen. Mathematical derivatives and criteria were calculated to determine the best period for sampling. For Nayarit, the appropriate period for leaf sampling was the summer flush of July 29 to August 18 and from February 8 to March 19 for the winter flush. In Veracruz, it was from April 10 to May 10 for the winter flush and from September 23 to October 8 for the spring flush.

IntroductionCalcium is essential for the correct functioning of the central nervous system, and calcium-binding proteins help to finely regulate its concentration. Whereas some calcium-binding proteins such as calmodulin are ubiquitous and are present in many cell types, others such as calbindin, calretinin, and parvalbumin are expressed in specific neuronal populations. Secretagogin belongs to this latter group and its distribution throughout the brain is only partially known. In the present work, the distribution of secretagogin-immunopositive cells was studied in the entire brain of healthy adult mice.MethodsAdult male C57BL/DBA mice aged between 5 and 7 months were used. Their whole brain was sectioned and used for immunohistochemistry. Specific neural populations were observed in different zones and nuclei identified according to Paxinos mouse brain atlas.ResultsLabelled cells were found with a Golgi-like staining, allowing an excellent characterization of their dendritic and axonal arborizations. Many secretagogin-positive cells were observed along different encephalic regions, especially in the olfactory bulb, basal ganglia, and hypothalamus. Immunostained populations were very heterogenous in both size and distribution, as some nuclei presented labelling in their entire extension, but in others, only scattered cells were present.DiscussionSecretagogin can provide a more complete vision of calcium-buffering mechanisms in the brain, and can be a useful neuronal marker in different brain areas for specific populations.

This short review focuses on presenting the CO2 capture processes performed in ceramic materials at high temperatures, but mainly on its simultaneous or subsequent catalytic conversion to different added-value products. Initially, it is presented a brief introduction, talking about the CO2 pollution problems and its chemical capture processes at moderate and high temperatures. Then, a complete description and discussion is given on the alkali and alkaline-earth ceramics used for subsequent CO2 chemical sorption and catalytic reactions employed for the production of added-value products. This work mainly describes the presence of this ceramics, their evolution into multifunctional systems implying the CO2 chemical transformation and possible prospects on ceramics used within the same framework.

Introduction: Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, affects 2–10% of the population globally. Bimekizumab (BMK), a monoclonal antibody targeting IL-17, is a dual inhibitor of IL17 A and F that has shown efficacy in treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. This real-world evidence (RWE) study aims to assess BMK’s efficiency and safety in naïve and refractory patients. Material and methods: A retrospective analysis of a multicenter observational study included 22 patients treated with BMK from April 2023 to February 2023 in five Andalusian hospitals. Ethical approval was obtained, and patients provided informed consent. Assessment criteria encompassed Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), body surface area (BSA), VAS pruritus, Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), and minimum disease activity (MDA) at 0, 4, 12, and 24 weeks. Results: Patients, predominantly with plaque psoriasis, exhibited significant improvements in PASI (baseline 15.7 to 0.4 at week 16), BSA (baseline 20.7 to 0.43 at week 16), DLQI (baseline 17.93 to 0.43 at week 16), and pruritus (baseline 7.12 to 0.4 at week 16). At week 16, 95.4% achieved MDA. No safety concerns or treatment discontinuations were reported. Discussion: This RWE study aligns with pivotal clinical trials, confirming BMK’s efficacy and safety. Notably, BMK demonstrated rapid and sustained psoriasis clearance, even in challenging areas. The study’s limitations include a small sample size, suggesting the need for further exploration of patient-reported outcomes. Conclusion: Bimekizumab exhibited optimal efficacy and safety profiles in treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in a real-world setting. Rapid response, sustained clearance, and favorable safety outcomes contribute to improved patient experiences. Future research could delve into patient-reported outcomes and expand sample sizes to enhance the understanding of BMK’s real-world effectiveness.

We present a catalog of stellar parameters (effective temperature T _eff , surface gravity $\mathrm{log}g$ , age, and metallicity [Fe/H]) and elemental-abundance ratios ([C/Fe], [Mg/Fe], and [ α /Fe]) for some five million stars (4.5 million dwarfs and 0.5 million giant stars) in the Milky Way, based on stellar colors from the Javalambre Photometric Local Universe Survey (J-PLUS) DR3 and Gaia EDR3. These estimates are obtained through the construction of a large spectroscopic training set with parameters and abundances adjusted to uniform scales, and trained with a kernel principal component analysis. Owing to the seven narrow/medium-band filters employed by J-PLUS, we obtain precisions in the abundance estimates that are as good as or better than those derived from medium-resolution spectroscopy for stars covering a wide range of the parameter space: 0.10–0.20 dex for [Fe/H] and [C/Fe], and 0.05 dex for [Mg/Fe] and [ α /Fe]. Moreover, systematic errors due to the influence of molecular carbon bands on previous photometric-metallicity estimates (which only included two narrow/medium-band blue filters) have now been removed, resulting in photometric-metallicity estimates down to [Fe/H] ∼ −4.0, with typical uncertainties of 0.40 dex and 0.25 dex for dwarfs and giants, respectively. This large photometric sample should prove useful for the exploration of the assembly and chemical-evolution history of our Galaxy.

Advances in the development of collision-free path planning algorithms are the main need not only to solve mazes with robotic systems, but also for their use in modern product transportation or green logistics systems and planning merchandise deliveries inside or outside a factory. This challenge increases as the complexity of the task in its structure also increases. This paper deals with the development of a novel methodology for solving mazes with a mobile robot, using image processing techniques and graph theory. The novelty is that the mobile robot can find the shortest path from a start-point to the end-point into irregular mazes with abundant irregular obstacles, a situation that is not far from reality. Maze information is acquired from an image and depending on the size of the mobile robot, a grid of nodes with the same dimensions of the maze is built. Another contribution of this paper is that the size of the maze can be scaled from 1 m × 1 m to 66 m × 66 m, maintaining the essence of the proposed collision-free path planning methodology. Afterwards, graph theory is used to find the shortest path within the grid of reduced nodes due to the elimination of those nodes absorbed by the irregular obstacles. To avoid the mobile robot to travel through those nodes very close to obstacles and borders, resulting in a collision, each image of the obstacle and border is dilated taking into account the size of the mobile robot. The methodology was validated with two case studies with a mobile robot in different mazes. We emphasize that the maze solution is found in a single computational step, from the maze image as input until the generation of the Path vector. Experimental results show the usefulness of the proposed methodology, which can be used in applications such as intelligent traffic control, military, agriculture and so on.

The fruits of the nopal (Opuntia spp.), cactus pears, are considered functional foods due to their content of nutritive and bioactive substances. Its pulp is generated by numerous seeds that limit their consumption due to their size and hardness and detract from their quality. Other undesirable fruit characteristics are its inedible peel and its short shelf life. In the case of the cactus pear cactus (Opuntia spp.), no cultivar has been reported that produces quality parthenocarpic fruits, nor have they been obtained by artificially inducing parthenocarpy. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the response of 11 genotypes to the induction of parthenocarpy, to characterize the fruits of the genotypes with the best response, and to determine their postharvest life. To induce parthenocarpy, floral buds were used in the pre-anthesis stage, from which the style-stigma, stamens, and tepals were removed, generating a cavity in which a solution of growth regulators was applied (250 mg L−1 AG3 + 75 mg L −1 BA + 15 mg L−1 of AIB). A similar number of buds was used as a control, without treatment, and in free pollination. Only two genotypes, MX CP-30 Red and MX CP-40 Yellow, produced parthenocarpic fruits since their empty integuments produced pulp, remaining small, empty, and soft. Their peel was sweet (10–14 °Brix) and edible, and they had a longer shelf life than the corresponding fruits with seeds.

Los modelos de biomasa son herramientas clave para estimar carbono en agroecosistemas. Esta investigación fue desarrollada en Caquetá, Colombia, en plantaciones y sistemas agroforestales. Se seleccionaron 41 árboles de Hevea brasiliensis y 40 de Theobroma grandiflorum para estimar la biomasa aérea (Ba); y 19 y 12 árboles fueron excavados respectivamente para estimar biomasa subterránea (Bb). Se ajustaron los modelos con base en el coeficiente de determinación (R2), el R2 ajustado, y los criterios de información de Akaike y Bayesiano. Los modelos recomendados para Ba en H. brasiliensis y T. grandiflorum fueron Ln(Ba)=-2.99+2.72*Ln(DAP) y Ln(Ba)=-2.59+2.48*Ln(D30), respectivamente (Ba: kg.árbol-1; DAP: diámetro a la altura del pecho en cm; D30: diámetro del tronco a 30 cm de altura). Adicionalmente, se desarrollaron modelos con base en diámetro y altura, así como otros basados en el área de la copa. Estos modelos son un avance para mejorar las estimaciones de biomasa y carbono, alcanzando un Tier 2 (Nivel 2), en investigación y proyectos de mitigación.

The main olfactory bulb (MOB) is a neural structure that processes olfactory information. Among the neurotransmitters present in the MOB, nitric oxide (NO) is particularly relevant as it performs a wide variety of functions. In this structure, NO is produced mainly by neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) but also by inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). The MOB is considered a region with great plasticity and the different NOS also show great plasticity. Therefore, it could be considered that this plasticity could compensate for various dysfunctional and pathological alterations. We examined the possible plasticity of iNOS and eNOS in the MOB in the absence of nNOS. For this, wild-type and nNOS knock-out (nNOS-KO) mice were used. We assessed whether the absence of nNOS expression could affect the olfactory capacity of mice, followed by the analysis of the expression and distribution of the NOS isoforms using qPCR and immunofluorescence. NO production in MOB was examined using both the Griess and histochemical NADPH-diaphorase reactions. The results indicate nNOS-KO mice have reduced olfactory capacity. We observed that in the nNOS-KO animal, there is an increase both in the expression of eNOS and NADPH-diaphorase, but no apparent change in the level of NO generated in the MOB. It can be concluded that the level of eNOS in the MOB of nNOS-KO is related to the maintenance of normal levels of NO. Therefore, our findings suggest that nNOS could be essential for the proper functioning of the olfactory system.

Ultrafast laser pulses provide unique tools to manipulate magnetization dynamics at femtosecond timescales, where the interaction of the electric field usually dominates over the magnetic field. Recent proposals using structured laser beams have demonstrated the possibility to produce regions where intense oscillating magnetic fields are isolated from the electric field. In these conditions, we show that technologically feasible tesla-scale circularly polarized high-frequency magnetic fields induce purely precessional nonlinear magnetization dynamics. This fundamental result not only opens an avenue in the study of laser-induced ultrafast magnetization dynamics, but also sustains technological implications as a route to promote all-optical non-thermal magnetization dynamics both at shorter timescales – towards the sub-femtosecond regime – and at THz frequencies.

One of the main constraints for reducing the temporal duration of attosecond pulses is the attochirp inherent to the process of high-order harmonic generation (HHG). Though the attochirp can be compensated in the extreme-ultraviolet using dispersive materials, this is unfeasible toward x-rays, where the shortest attosecond or even sub-attosecond pulses could be obtained. We theoretically demonstrate that HHG driven by a circularly polarized infrared pulse while assisted by an strong oscillating ultrafast intense magnetic field enables the generation of few-cycle Fourier-limited few attosecond pulses. In such a novel scenario, the magnetic field transversally confines the ionized electron during the HHG process, analogously to a nanowire trapping. Once the electron is ionized, the transverse electron dynamics is excited by the magnetic field, acting as a high-energy reservoir to be released in the form of phase-locked spectrally wide high-frequency harmonic radiation during the electron recollision with the parent ion. In addition, the transverse breathing dynamics of the electron wavepacket, introduced by the magnetic trapping, strongly modulates the recollision efficiency of the electronic trajectories, thus the attosecond pulse emissions. The aftermath is the possibility of producing high-frequency (hundreds of eV) attosecond isolated few-cycle pulses, almost Fourier limited. The isolated intense magnetic fields considered in our simulations, of tens of kT, can be produced in finite spatial volumes considering structured beams or stationary configurations of counter-propagating state-of-the-art multi-terawatt/petawatt lasers.

Abstract Background Few publications have assessed long-term results of distal locking of short endomedullary nails for extracapsular hip fracture. Virtually all of them focus on immediate differences. Criteria for the use of static or dynamic locking are unclear in most nailing systems, and use is advised in unstable fracture patterns or with risk of bell-clapper effect, but often influenced by the “orthopaedic school”. Materials and methods This is a historical cohort study on patients diagnosed and operated in 2014 and followed up until endpoint, considered as consolidation or major complication, plus evaluation of overall long-term survival. They were categorised as static distal locking (ST) or dynamic distal locking (DN). Both are comparable, except for all stable pre-operative classifications, Fracture Mobility Score (FMS) at discharge, and immediate post-operative loading, all of which were in favour of DN. Results Consolidation took place in > 95% of patients, with a non-statistically significant delay trend in ST. Less than 6% in both ST and DN had major complications, with no differences. Most cases suffered early cut-out. Significant fracture collapse was the most frequent minor complication. There were more statistically significant minor and total complications in ST. Infection, without differences, can precede cut-out. Lateral thigh pain was similar and could be related to back-out. In DN, 21.1% of cases were truly dynamised. We did not find differences in mobility or in long-term survival. Conclusions Any type of distal locking seems to be safe for consolidation, despite a slightly longer consolidation time in static locking. Early cut-out was the main complication, while others were very infrequent, which is an advantage over helical blade devices. There was a higher rate of minor and overall mechanical complications in ST, but infection and lateral thigh pain were similar. Most non-traumatic mechanical complications occurred around 5–6 weeks. About one in five of the DN truly dynamised, with all cases occurring before 8 weeks. Mobility until endpoint and overall long-term survival were not influenced by the locking mode used. Level of evidence Therapeutic study, level 2b.

Background: In developed countries, health care delivery in dermatology is hampered by the low availability of dermatologists. Objective: To analyze the feasibility of a teledermatology-based action plan to provide initial dermatologic care in areas with low availability of dermatologists. Methods: A cross-sectional study describing the feasibility and cost of a 12-month action plan based on a store-and-forward teledermatology (TD) connecting primary care centers and a TD center. Teleconsultations from patients complaining of any cutaneous condition were included. The primary outcome measure was the percentage of patients not referred to the local dermatologist. Results: Among the total of 15,523 teleconsultations attended in the TD-based action plan, 3360 (21.65%) required a face-to-face visit with a local dermatologist. In 32.32% (n = 5017) of the cases, a therapeutic and follow-up plan report was issued. The most common conditions managed were melanocytic nevi (15.63%, n = 2426), followed by seborrheic keratosis (14.89%, n = 2312), and actinic keratosis (8.65%, n = 1342). The average response time was 14.52 days (95% CI 14.35-15.23). The additional total investment in this action plan was $142,681.01, with a unit cost of 9.20$/patient. Limitations: Noncontrolled study. Conclusions: Experienced dermatologists working with store-and-forward TD can deliver a fast and effective response in health care areas with access limitations.

This research explores a novel Mexican Sign Language (MSL) lexicon video dataset containing the dynamic gestures most frequently used in MSL. Each gesture consists of a set of different versions of videos under uncontrolled conditions. The MX-ITESO-100 dataset is composed of a lexicon of 100 gestures and 5000 videos from three participants with different grammatical elements. Additionally, the dataset is evaluated in a two-step neural network model as having an accuracy greater than 99% and thus serves as a benchmark for future training of machine learning models in computer vision systems. Finally, this research provides an inclusive environment within society and organizations, in particular for people with hearing impairments.

This study suggests using wearable activity trackers to identify mobility patterns in chronic complex patients (CCPs) and investigate their relation with the Barthel index (BI) to assess functional decline. CCPs are individuals who suffer from multiple, chronic health conditions that often lead to a progressive decline in their functional capacity. As a result, CCPs frequently require the use of healthcare and social resources, placing a significant burden on the healthcare system. Evaluating mobility patterns is critical for determining a CCP’s functional capacity and prognosis. To monitor the overall activity levels of CCPs, wearable activity trackers have been proposed. Utilizing the data gathered by the wearables, time series clustering with dynamic time warping (DTW) is employed to generate synchronized mobility patterns of the mean activity and coefficient of variation profiles. The research has revealed distinct patterns in individuals’ walking habits, including the time of day they walk, whether they walk continuously or intermittently, and their relation to BI. These findings could significantly enhance CCPs’ quality of care by providing a valuable tool for personalizing treatment and care plans.

ObjectivesThis study analyzes the subjective emotional impact COVID-19 deaths have had on healthcare, social services, and funeral services professionals, it explores the different implications, and analyzes the different reactions of health and social care professionals and funeral professionals to the volume of deaths.MethodsThis work is based on a qualitative, phenomenological, and interpretative approach through in-depth interviews with 42 informants, including 36 social and healthcare professionals, as well as 6 family members of those who died from COVID-19 in Madrid. The interviews were processed through a qualitative, interpretative, categorical analysis.ResultsHealthcare professionals were overexposed to a significant number of deaths under dramatic circumstances. Many of these professionals had difficulties processing their experiences and expressed the need for psychological help. The fact that certain professionals had previous exposure to high mortality rates was not a protective factor. Some coping differences were seen between healthcare professionals and professionals dedicated to the care of the deceased (undertakers or firemen), particularly in the degree to which they personalized the care they provided.ConclusionThe overexposure to death with the circumstances that existed during the state of emergency had a significant emotional impact on the professionals, which can lead to mental health problems in the near term.

El mercado de viviendas en Chile, basado en madera, requiere una revisión complementaria en función de las ventajas competitivas que posee este material respecto a sus prestaciones técnicas y propiedades estructurales, para fortalecer el cumplimiento de la Ordenanza General de Urbanismo y Construcción [OGUC] chileno y los Códigos de Construcción Sustentables. En ese marco, el objetivo central de la presente investigación fue desarrollar un Indicador Integrado de Seguridad y Sustentabilidad (IISS) capaz de integrar aspectos normativos, sociales, territoriales y ambientales, conforme a las variables: (1) presentación, (2) sustentabilidad y (3) seguridad de una vivienda. Para esto, se recopiló información de 230 empresas constructoras en madera localizadas entre las regiones de Valparaíso y Los Ríos, en Chile Central; proceso en el que destacó la presentación del producto y la seguridad como insumos para aplicar la metodología de cálculo del IISS. Esta integración dio como resultado una clasificación de indicadores técnicos útiles para fomentar la utilización del material madera como opción constructiva que prevalezca o se complemente con otro tipo de materias primas.

IntroductionIt has been suggested that inferior vena cava (IVC) reconstruction following resection of retroperitoneal tumors with IVC tumor thrombus (TT) is not required when adequate collateral circulation is present. There are no reports evaluating mid-term effects on renal function in these patients. The purpose of this study was to assess renal function after en bloc resection of right renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with obstructing IVC TT and the possible risks that may arise after left renal vein division.Materials and MethodsA bi-institutional retrospective review was performed over a 15-year period, assessing patients with right RCC and obstructing level II–IV TT. All patients underwent extensive evaluation and cardiology clearance, and informed consent was obtained for right radical nephrectomy and thrombectomy with or without IVC reconstruction with possible cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, intraoperative factors, complications, length of stay, and patient survival were evaluated. Preoperative creatinine was recorded, as was creatinine on the day of discharge and at 6 and 12 months postoperatively.ResultsTwenty-two patients were included in the study. Median age at surgery was 62.5 (range: 45–79) years, and 19 (86%) of the patients were men. One patient (5%) had a level II thrombus, 14 patients (64%) had a level III thrombus (IIIa, n = 3; IIIb, n = 6; IIIc, n = 3; IIId, n = 2), and seven patients (32%) had a level IV thrombus. Intraoperatively, median estimated blood loss was 1.35 (range: 0.2–25) L. The median length of hospital stay was 11 (range: 5–50) days. Median preoperative creatinine was 1.20 (range: 0.40–2.70) mg/dl, and postoperatively, median creatinine was 1.3 (range: 0.86–2.20) mg/dl. Median creatinine levels at 6 months and 12 months postoperatively were 1.10 (range: 0.5–1.8) mg/dl and 1.40 (range: 0.6–2.0) mg/dl, respectively. Four patients died (range: 0.1–1.3 years), and median postoperative follow-up among the 18 ongoing survivors (at last follow-up) was 1.5 (range: 0.5–7.0) years.ConclusionsResection of right RCC with an obstructing level II–IV TT without reconstruction of the IVC appears to not have a significant adverse effect on mid-term renal function after division of the left renal vein.

Resumen: La vía clínica de recuperación intensificada en cirugía cardiaca (RICC) pretende identificar, difundir y favorecer la implementación de las mejores actuaciones basadas en la evidencia científica para disminuir la variabilidad en la práctica clínica. La puesta en marcha de estas prácticas en el proceso clínico global favorecerá la obtención de mejores resultados, acortamiento de estancias hospitalarias y en la Unidad de Cuidados Críticos, lo que permitirá una reducción de costes y una mayor eficiencia. Tras realizar una revisión sistemática en cada uno de los puntos del proceso perioperatorio en cirugía cardiaca, se han redactado recomendaciones basadas en la mejor evidencia científica disponible en la actualidad con el consenso de las sociedades científicas implicadas. Abstract: The ERAS guidelines are intended to identify, disseminate and promote the implementation of the best, scientific evidence-based actions to decrease variability in clinical practice. The implementation of these practices in the global clinical process will promote better outcomes and the shortening of hospital and critical care unit stays, thereby resulting in a reduction in costs and in greater efficiency. After completing a systematic review at each of the points of the perioperative process in cardiac surgery, recommendations have been developed based on the best scientific evidence currently available with the consensus of the scientific societies involved.

Introducción. Las levaduras, las bacterias ácido lácticas y ácido acéticas, involucradas en la fermentación de cacao, son las responsables del consumo de los compuestos en la pulpa para desarrollar los precursores de sabor dentro del grano de cacao. Sin embargo, la fermentación es difícil de controlar por la complejidad de este proceso y las múltiples variables que la afectan, entre ellas la genética del cultivo. Objetivo. Analizar las transformaciones bioquímicas de diferentes grupos genéticos del cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) durante una micro fermentación controlada. Materiales y métodos. Se estableció una metodología de micro fermentación, con un cultivo iniciador de H. opuntiae y Acetobacter spp. en 4 grupos genéticos, obtenidos de clones comerciales del CATIE e híbridos de fincas de Upala. A lo largo de la fermentación se analizaron glucosa, fructosa, etanol, ácido láctico y acético en pulpa y metilxantinas (teobromina y cafeína) y (-)-epicatequina en grano. Resultados. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en el contenido y comportamiento de azúcares, ácidos orgánicos o etanol en pulpa a lo largo de la fermentación, pero sí en el tiempo de fermentación. Se observó una disminución de metilxantinas y epicatequinas, debido a reacciones enzimáticas y no enzimáticas. El contenido promedio de epicatequina resultó ser el compuesto distintivo entre los grupos genéticos del CATIE y cafeína en los cacaos comerciales. Conclusión. La metodología empleada posee un efecto regulador en el comportamiento de algunos metabolitos estudiados en pulpa de diferentes genéticas a lo largo de la fermentación, así como epicatequina y metilxantinas en grano.

Introduction: facing tuberculosis is a social and professional responsibility that requires characterization of the disease, not quite achieved in Guantanamo in the last decade. Objective: to characterize tuberculosis in patients in the province of Guantanamo in the period from 2012 to 2019. Method: the research population was the total of patients diagnosed with the disease (n=136). The following variables were taken into account: age, gender, location of the infection, results on the smear microscopy, categorization of the patient at the time of discharge and the risk groups for tuberculosis. The information was gathered through the records on the every year list of notifiable diseases, and epidemiologic surveys in the areas of infection, and it was summed up in absolute values and percentage. Results: in the 80.1 % of the cases of tuberculosis, the infection was located in the lungs, and the diagnose by positive smear microscopy (63.2 %) was more common. The 76.7 % of the patients with a positive smear microscopy were male. The most common risk groups for tuberculosis were: smokers (26.4 %), immunosuppressed patients (21.6 %) and alcoholism (19.1 %). Conclusions: In Guantanamo province, the lung-located tuberculosis prevails; and also the patients with a positive smear microscopy. Patients are mostly male, with ages ranging from 45 to 54 years old, all of them with a recent diagnosis. The disease has a greater incidence rate on those with an immunosuppression, smoking or alcoholism background.

Se aporta la lista de vertebrados terrestres de cuatro localidades del Parque Nacional “Desembarco del Granma”, municipio Niquero, provincia Granma. Las aves presentaron la mayor riqueza de especies (54) y los reptiles el mayor grado de endemismo a nivel de especie y/o subespecie (79 %). En el caso de los anfibios se reporta Eleutherodactylus tonyi, especie endémica y amenazada, y se discute el estado taxonómico de las poblaciones de E. cf. varians de Cabo Cruz. En los reptiles se registra por primera vez Hemidactylus angulatus, especie exótica e invasora; y se discute el estado de conservación de las poblaciones Anolis ruibali, un endémico local. Para las aves se recomienda extender los muestreos a otras épocas del año con el objetivo de registrar la entrada de especies migratorias. En los mamíferos, se registra por primera vez Monophyllus redmani, Chilonatalus macer, Mormoops blainvillei y Pteronotus parnelli para esta localidad. La presencia de una cueva caliente en el sendero Morlotte-Fustete aporta un valor adicional desde el punto de vista ecológico y ameritaría replantear planes de conservación y manejo para el área.

Background: We assessed the cost-effectiveness of Camino Verde, a community-based mobilization strategy to prevent and control dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases. A cluster-randomized controlled trial in Managua, Nicaragua, and in three coastal regions in Guerrero, Mexico (75 intervention and 75 control clusters), Camino Verde used non-governmental community health workers, called brigadistas, to support community mobilization. This donor-funded trial demonstrated reductions of 29.5% (95% confidence interval, CI: 3.8%–55.3%) on dengue infections and 24.7% (CI: 1.8%–51.2%) on self-reported cases. Methods: We estimated program costs through a micro-costing approach and semi-structured questionnaires. We show results as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) for costs per disability-adjusted life-year (DALYs) averted and conducted probabilistic sensitivity analyses. Findings: The Camino Verde trial spent US$16.72 in Mexico and $7.47 in Nicaragua per person annually. We found an average of 910 (CI: 487–1 353) and 500 (CI: 250–760) dengue cases averted annually per million population in Mexico and Nicaragua, respectively, compared to control communities. The ICER in Mexico was US$29 618 (CI: 13 869–66 898) per DALY averted, or 3.0 times per capita GDP. For Nicaragua, the ICER was US$29 196 (CI: 14 294–72 181) per DALY averted, or 16.9 times per capita GDP. Interpretation: Camino Verde, as implemented in the research context, was marginally cost-effective in Mexico, and not cost-effective in Nicaragua, from a healthcare sector perspective. Nicaragua’s low per capita GDP and the use of grant-funded management personnel weakened the cost-effectiveness results. Achieving efficiencies by incorporating Camino Verde activities into existing public health programs would make Camino Verde cost-effective.

El trabajo que se presenta es un resultado de la experiencia de investigación de un proyecto de educación ambiental, relacionado con el desarrollo sostenible, en su perspectiva educativa ambientalista que desarrollan investigadores de la UMET en la provincia El Oro, Ecuador. Tiene por objetivo orientar el estudio de redes de conocimientos, como perspectiva metodológica para la comprensión de la sostenibilidad ambiental. La perspectiva que posibilita identificar las redes de conocimientos adquiere gran relevancia en la educación ambiental, pues posibilita reconstruir la trayectoria del conocimiento en la trasmisión de la experiencia colectiva, y establecer los vínculos que favorecen el desarrollo de una cultura de la sostenibilidad, en tanto posibilita en la investigación científica desarrollar una visión integrada de los factores culturales, políticos y sociales que contribuyen a la sostenibilidad. Se establecen los aspectos que permiten identificar funciones, roles, actores y vínculos como componentes metodológicos de la evaluación de la sostenibilidad en contextos definidos.

El estudio analizó, en dos años, los efectos de raza [Brahman (BHM; n= 65); Suizo Europeo (SE; n= 56)], suplementación con Zilpaterol® (ZIL; tratadas o testigo), estación de nacimiento (primavera u otoño) y sus interacciones, sobre superficie corporal (SC), edad (EPB), peso corporal (PPB), condición corporal (CC), profundidad del músculo largo dorsal (MD), grosor de grasa dorsal (GD) y concentración sérica de leptina (LEP) a la pubertad (PB) de 121 vaquillas. A la PB, las BHM fueron más pesadas y tuvieron más edad que las SE (376.8 ± 7.4 vs 302.0 ± 6.6 kg; 588.1 ± 14.7 vs 445.5 ± 12.5 días). ZIL aumentó EPB, PPB, CC y MD, pero no afectó GD y LEP. Las BHM tuvieron 18 % más SC que las SE. Sin embargo, la diferencia en PPB/SC fue sólo de 6.4 %. Cuando se usó peso metabólico (PM) como proporción de la SC (PM/SC) en lugar de PPB, la diferencia entre BHM y SE desapareció (P>0.05). El GD fue 63.7 % mayor en BHM que en SE. Las nacidas en primavera iniciaron la PB con 24.4 % menos GD que las nacidas en otoño. La mayoría de las vaquillas BHM (73.8 %) inició la PB en los meses en que las horas luz iban en aumento (P

We employ the corrected Gaia Early Data Release 3 photometric data and spectroscopic data from the Large Sky Area Multi-Object Fiber Spectroscopic Telescope (LAMOST) DR7 to assemble a sample of approximately 0.25 million FGK dwarf photometric standard stars for the 12 J-PLUS filters using the stellar color regression (SCR) method. We then independently validate the J-PLUS DR3 photometry and uncover significant systematic errors: up to 15 mmag in the results from the stellar locus method and up to 10 mmag primarily caused by magnitude-, color-, and extinction-dependent errors of the Gaia XP spectra as revealed by the Gaia BP/RP (XP) synthetic photometry (XPSP) method. We have also further developed the XPSP method using the corrected Gaia XP spectra by B. Huang et al. and applied it to the J-PLUS DR3 photometry. This resulted in an agreement of 1–5 mmag with the SCR method and a twofold improvement in the J-PLUS zero-point precision. Finally, the zero-point calibration for around 91% of the tiles within the LAMOST observation footprint is determined through the SCR method, with the remaining approximately 9% of the tiles outside this footprint relying on the improved XPSP method. The recalibrated J-PLUS DR3 photometric data establish a solid data foundation for conducting research that depends on high-precision photometric calibration.

Studies were conducted to improve the production of murine ascites with monoclonal antibodies that recognize SARS-CoV-2 proteins. BALB/c mice were primed with 0.5 mL of mineral oil into the abdominal cavity. Seven days after priming, mice were divided in two groups: the group 1 was inoculated intraperitoneally with 2x106 cells/mL of MAb-secreting hybridomas against the nucleocapsid and spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2; the group 2 was injected simultaneously with the same inoculum of hybridoma cells and mineral oil, 18 days after priming. No disturbances or suffering signals were observed in mice from both groups, suggesting that double administration of mineral oil did not produce significant distress with respect to the single dose used for priming, and that none of the hybridoma cell lines were particularly aggressive for the inoculated mice. Ascites was collected in 90.48% and 97.68% of mice from groups 1 and 2, respectively. Ascites was not collected in 7.42% of all mice. The main cause was they never developed ascites tumors but no solid tumors were observed either. The volume of ascitic fluid per mouse was increased significantly in mice from group 2, and there were no significant differences between groups in terms of the concentration of IgG in clarified ascites. According to these results, to obtain higher amounts of MAb the strategy applied in group 2 should be used, since it showed the best results in the development of ascites tumors and it significantly increased the volume of ascites fluid per mouse. This could allow the use of fewer animals for ascites production, which is an ethical and economic benefit.

This study deals with the descriptive analysis of the opinion of a pilot group of students at the University of Salamanca about the use of an innovative origami microscope: the Foldscope. Data were collected from an online satisfaction survey of 92 students of Plant Histology (Degree in Biology) during their laboratory practices. These surveys collected their opinions about the educational effectiveness of an innovative and economic foldable microscope made of paper. The foldscope is easy to use and can be used individually or collectively, thanks to its projection capability. The results show that the participants have a positive impression regarding the use of this tool to study plant structures, and they recommend its use in the years thereafter. In this regard, it is demonstrated that the price of microscopes is no longer a problem for the teaching of some subjects, such as Plant Histology.

Background: First and second line standard treatment in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) is with chemotherapy +/- some monoclonal antibody according to the RAS biomarker report. About 30-40% of them will require a third line of therapy, where regorafenib has been approved due to overall and progression-free survival positive results. Objective: The objective of the study was to describe the Mexican experience with the use of regorafenib in patients with mCRC. Methods: This was a multi-center, retrospective study where medical records of heavily treatment-experienced mCRC-diagnosed patients who had received at least one cycle of regorafenib were reviewed. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed, with the Kaplan–Meier method being used for survival calculation using the SPSS v. 23 software. Results: Forty-five patients with metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma were included in the study; 18 were females and 27 males, with a mean age of 51 (± 10.3) years. There was previous history of diabetes mellitus in nine cases and arterial hypertension in four, with an ECOG 1 performance status being found in all patients. Primary tumor sites were the colon (23 patients) and rectum (22). KRAS oncogene determination was obtained in 35 patients, out of which 16 were wild-type (46%). All patients had been previously treated with chemotherapy ± monoclonal antibodies, radical surgery, and radiotherapy (where indicated). Primary metastatic sites were: the liver (24 cases), lung (21), retroperitoneum (10), and peritoneum (7). Mean number of regorafenib cycles was 4 (1-13), with initial doses being 160 mg (20 patients), 120 mg (18), and 80 mg (7), with one daily take for 3 weeks and 1-week rest. In 28 patients, regorafenib was started 18 months after metastatic disease diagnosis. Treatment response was partial in four cases (9%), stable disease in 21 (47%), progressive disease in 15 (33%), and not evaluable in five patients. Median survival for the entire group was 6.0 months (1-16 months). Main identified grade 3-4 toxicities were hand-foot syndrome, fatigue, skin dryness, stomatitis, and diarrhea. Discussion and Conclusions: Regorafenib overall survival benefit in heavily treated mCRC in the Mexican population is confirmed and correlates with the 2 Phase II trials CORRECT and CONCUR, with manageable toxicity. In the population with an interval > 18 months since metastasis onset at regorafenib start, with an ECOG 0-1 and no monoclonal antibodies previous use, regorafenib was correlated with higher survival.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is one of the most relevant forage crops due to its importance for livestock. Timely harvesting is critical to secure adequate forage quality. However, farmers face challenges not only to decide the optimal harvesting time but to predict the optimum levels for both forage production and quality. Fortunately, remote sensing technologies can significantly contribute to obtaining production and quality insights, providing scalability, and supporting complex farming decision-making. Therefore, we aim to develop a systematic review of the current scientific literature to identify the current status of research in remote sensing for alfalfa and to evaluate new perspectives for enhancing prediction of both biomass and quality (herein defined as crude protein and fibers) for alfalfa. Twelve papers were included in the database from a total of 198 studies included in the initial screening process. The main findings were (i) more than two-thirds of the studies focused on predicting biomass; (ii) half of the studies used terrestrial platforms, with only 33% using drones and 17% using satellite for remote sensing; (iii) no studies have used satellites assessed alfalfa quality traits; (iv) improved biomass and quality estimations were obtained when remote sensing data was combined with environmental information; (v) due to a direct relationship between biomass and quality, modeling them algorithmically improves the accuracy of estimation as well; (vi) from spectral wavelengths, dry biomass was better estimated in regions near 398, 551, 670, 730, 780, 865, and 1077 nm, wet biomass in regions near 478, 631, 670, 730, 780, 834, 933, 1034, and 1538 nm, and quality traits identified with narrow and very specific wavelengths (e.g., 398, 461, 551, 667, 712, and 1077 nm). Our findings might serve as a foundation to guide further research and the development of handheld sensors for assessing alfalfa biomass and quality.

El artículo propone vías para incorporar a los ciudadanos del montón al relato de los grandes trastornos políticos de principios del siglo XX. Primero se realiza una revisión crítica de la producción sobre culturas políticas en España y se pone especial énfasis en la necesidad de ampliar horizontes desde la ciencia política y el análisis del lenguaje hacia la antropología. Así, se plantea complementar el estudio de conceptos, narrativas y representaciones con una mayor atención sobre los comportamientos colectivos, las formas de vida y los entornos de politización. Segundo, se apuesta por imprimir una mirada urbana a los estudios de cultura política. Se presentan algunos de los enfoques con que la nueva historia urbana se ha aproximado a los fenómenos de formación de la identidad y se pone de manifiesto su potencialidad para abordar un análisis cultural de la política desde lo cotidiano, desde las prácticas y desde el contexto

Resumen: Introducción: La persistencia de ductus arterioso (PDA), se considera un factor de riesgo para enterocolitis necrosante (ECN) y otras complicaciones digestivas en prematuros. El objetivo del presente trabajo es analizar si existe un mayor riesgo de cirugía abdominal y morbimortalidad asociada en prematuros que precisaron tratamiento debido a una PDA significativa. Metodología: Estudio observacional, analítico y retrospectivo incluyendo prematuros menores de 37 semanas de gestación, con diagnóstico de PDA en los últimos 10 años. En función del tratamiento recibido, los pacientes fueron divididos en 3 grupos: tratamiento médico (A), tratamiento médico y quirúrgico (B) y sin tratamiento (C). Se analizaron variables pre y perinatales, incidencia de complicaciones digestivas (ECN y necesidad de cirugía por este motivo) y mortalidad global. Resultados: Se obtuvo una muestra de 144 pacientes: 91 se asignaron al grupo A, 16 al B y 37 al C. La edad gestacional media por grupos fue de 28, 26,7 y 30,1 semanas. El peso medio al nacer fue de 1.083,9, 909,3 y 1471,2 g, respectivamente. En cuanto a la incidencia de ECN, se encontraron un total de 21, 5 y 5 casos en cada grupo, precisando cirugía abdominal un 43, 60 y 35%, respectivamente. La mortalidad por grupos fue del 12, 19 y 3%. Conclusiones: Los pacientes que precisaron tratamiento por PDA, presentaron una mayor incidencia de complicaciones digestivas y una mayor mortalidad que los pacientes no tratados, sin embargo, no encontramos diferencias estadísticamente significativas. En el grupo de pacientes que requirieron tratamiento, la menor edad gestacional y peso al nacer, podrían explicar el incremento de la morbimortalidad encontrada en estos pacientes. Abstract: Introduction: Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is considered a risk factor for necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) and other gastrointestinal complications in preterm infants. The aim of this study is to determine whether there is a higher incidence of abdominal surgery and the associated morbidity and mortality in preterm infants who require treatment due to a significant PDA. Methods: An observational study was conducted that included preterm infants with

Introduction: Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is considered a risk factor for necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) and other gastrointestinal complications in preterm infants. The aim of this study is to determine whether there is a higher incidence of abdominal surgery and the associated morbidity and mortality in preterm infants who require treatment due to a significant PDA. Methods: An observational study was conducted that included preterm infants with