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Abstract Tiger sharks are apex predators with a circumglobal tropical and warm-temperate distribution, with a general lack of population data for the central Indian Ocean. In Fuvahmulah, Maldives, tiger sharks display frequent use of the harbour area, attracted by discarded fish waste. Here, we document the population structure, residency, and reproductive characteristics of the world’s largest known tiger shark aggregation in a geographically-restricted area. Using non-invasive methods, photo identification and laser photogrammetry, we identified 239 individual tiger sharks over a 7-year study period. The aggregation was female-dominated (84.5%), with both large juveniles and adults present. Adult females were resighted over the entire study period displaying strong inter- and intra-annual site fidelity. Modelled residency using maximum likelihood methods suggests they spent 60.7 ± S.E. 7.5 days in Fuvahmulah, with a larger aggregation size, shorter residence periods and longer absence periods compared to juvenile females. Prolonged abdominal distensions of adult females indicate they likely stay near Fuvahmulah during gestation and reproduce biennially. Fuvahmulah seems to provide suitable conditions for gestation given the year-round provision of food and warm waters, exhibited by strong site fidelity and temporal residency. Our results show indications of a thriving population within the confines of protected waters.

Abstract Computational fluid dynamics is an essential tool for accelerating the discovery and adoption of transformative designs across multiple engineering disciplines. Despite its many successes, no single approach consistently achieves high accuracy for all flow phenomena of interest, primarily due to limitations in the modeling assumptions. Here, we introduce a closure model for wall-modeled large-eddy simulation to address this challenge. The model, referred to as the Building-block Flow Model (BFM), rests on the premise that a finite collection of simple flows encapsulates the essential missing physics necessary to predict more complex scenarios. The BFM is designed to: (1) predict multiple flow regimes, (2) unify the closure model at solid boundaries and the rest of the flow, (3) ensure consistency with numerical schemes and gridding strategies by accounting for numerical errors, (4) be directly applicable to arbitrary complex geometries, and (5) be scalable to model additional flow physics in the future. The BFM is utilized to predict key quantities in five cases, including an aircraft in landing configuration, demonstrating similar or superior capabilities compared to previous state-of-the-art models. The design of BFM opens up new opportunities for developing closure models that can accurately represent various flow physics across different scenarios.

Resumen: Introducción La osteoartritis es una patología incapacitante caracterizada por dolor y rigidez articular. En nuestro país se reporta una prevalencia de coxartrosis del 7,4%. El reemplazo articular total de cadera está indicado en etapas avanzadas, procedimiento que no está exento de complicaciones, la más frecuente es la luxación protésica, que puede ser prevenida con sistemas de doble movilidad (DM). El siguiente estudio tiene como objetivo determinar la tasa de complicaciones y los resultados clínicos en los sistemas de DM en coxartrosis primaria. Materiales y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo donde se incluyeron 120 casos en 114 pacientes con diagnóstico de coxartrosis grado III, la media de edad fue de 62,43 años, con seguimiento medio de 4,5 años. El reemplazo articular se realizó mediante abordaje de Hardinge. Todos los casos fueron valorados clínicamente mediante la escala de Harris Hip Score (HHS) y radiológicamente para demostrar los resultados a mediano plazo. Resultados: El valor preoperatorio en la escala HHS tuvo una media de 56,45, posquirúrgica al mes 74,23; seis meses de 85,40; un año de 94,01 y a los cinco años de 94,84 puntos, representando una mejoría funcional de 17,78 mes posquirúrgico; 28,95 a los seis meses posquirúrgicos; 37,56 al año posquirúrgico y 38,39 puntos a los cinco años posquirúrgicos. Una tasa de complicaciones de 3,44%; 0,86% de las complicaciones se asociaron a los componentes protésicos. Conclusión: El sistema de DM debe ser considerado como una opción terapéutica en reemplazo articular primario de cadera debido a los resultados funcionales excelentes y bajas tasas de complicaciones. Nivel de evidencia: IV. Estudio observacional retrospectivo tipo serie de casos. Abstract: Introduction: Osteoarthritis is a disabling pathology characterized by joint pain and stiffness. A prevalence of coxarthrosis of 7.4% is reported in our country. Total hip joint replacement is indicated in advanced stages, a procedure that is not free of complications, the most frequent being prosthetic dislocation, which can be prevented with dual mobility systems. The following study aims to determine the rate of complications and clinical outcomes in dual mobility systems in primary coxarthrosis. Materials and methods: A retrospective study included 120 cases in 114 patients diagnosed with grade III coxarthrosis, mean age was 62.43 years, with a mean follow-up of 4.5 years. Joint replacement was performed by Hardinge approach. All cases were assessed clinically using the Harris Hip Score (HHS) and radiologically to demonstrate mid-term results. Results: The preoperative value on the HHS scale had a mean of 56.45, postoperative at one month 74.23; 6 months 85.40; 1 year 94.01 and at 5 years 94.84 points, representing a functional improvement of 17.78 postoperative month; 28.95 at 6 months postoperative; 37.56 at one year postoperative and 38.39 points at 5 years postoperative. A complication rate of 3.44%; 0.86% of complications were associated with the prosthetic components. Conclusion: The dual mobility system should be considered as a therapeutic option in primary hip joint replacement due to excellent functional results and low complication rates. Evidence level: IV. Retrospective observational case series study.

Abstract Cetaceans represent a natural experiment within the tree of life in which a lineage changed from terrestrial to aquatic habitats. This shift involved phenotypic modifications, representing an opportunity to explore the genetic bases of phenotypic diversity. Among the different molecular systems that maintain cellular homeostasis, ion channels are crucial for the proper physiological functioning of all living species. This study aims to explore the evolution of ion channels during the evolutionary history of cetaceans. To do so, we created a bioinformatic pipeline to annotate the repertoire of ion channels in the genome of the species included in our sampling. Our main results show that cetaceans have, on average, fewer protein-coding genes and a higher percentage of annotated ion channels than non-cetacean mammals. Signals of positive selection were detected in ion channels related to the heart, locomotion, visual and neurological phenotypes. Interestingly, we predict that the NaV1.5 ion channel of most toothed whales (odontocetes) is sensitive to tetrodotoxin, similar to NaV1.7, given the presence of tyrosine instead of cysteine, in a specific position of the ion channel. Finally, the gene turnover rate of the cetacean crown group is more than three times faster than that of non-cetacean mammals.

Fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles employ fuel cells along with batteries or ultracapacitors as power sources, and energy management systems can control their power split. This study investigates energy management strategies for lightweight plug-in extended-range fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles to optimise fuel economy, extend component lifespans, and enhance vehicle efficiency. Comparisons between power follower and dynamic programming-based strategies are conducted, focusing on incorporating PEMFC health constraints to prolong stack durability via on-off binary mode operation. Using the New European Driving Cycle, performance evaluation is conducted on a parallel architecture featuring a 16-kW motor, regenerative braking system, eight 420-Wh batteries in series, and six 1-kW fuel cell stacks. Dynamic programming strategies demonstrated potential improvements, with savings in hydrogen consumption of 62–72 L per driving cycle and SOC levels of 3.9%. Moreover, optimised battery lifespan enabled the system to achieve approximately 18,087 -18,745 charge/discharge cycles. Implementing PEMFC health constraints facilitated reductions in average accumulated active time to 205 seconds per driving cycle and startup/shutdown cycle frequency to 36.5 cycles per hour, promoting enhanced system durability and operational efficiency.

Proprioception is significantly impaired in knee osteoarthritis (KOA), contributing to reduced functionality. Strength training (ST) is essential in KOA by improving muscle strength, although it may also be effective in improving proprioception. The purpose was to determine the effect of ST on knee proprioception in KOA patients. Pubmed, CINAHL, Scopus, WOS, and PEDro were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (inception to March 2023). Comparisons for ST were physical exercise different from ST, non-exercise-based interventions, and no intervention. Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale, and risk of bias (RoB) using the Cochrane tool. Meta-analyses were performed by comparison groups using the standardized mean difference (SMD) (Hedge's g) with random effects models, also considering subgroups by proprioception tests. Finally, six RCTs were included. The mean PEDro score was 6.3, and the highest proportion of biases corresponds to performance, selection, and detection. The meta-analysis indicated that only when compared with non-intervention, ST significantly improved knee proprioception for the joint position sense (JPS) (active + passive), JPS (passive), and threshold to detect passive motion (TTDPM) subgroups (g ​= ​−1.33 [-2.33, −0.32], g = ​−2.29 [-2.82, −1.75] and g ​= ​−2.40 [-4.23, −0.58], respectively). However, in the knee JPS (active) subgroup, ST was not significant (g ​= ​−0.72 [-1.84, 0.40]). In conclusion, ST improves knee proprioception compared to non-intervention. However, due to the paucity of studies and diversity of interventions, more evidence is needed to support the effectiveness of ST. Future RCTs may address the limitations of this review to advance knowledge about proprioceptive responses to ST and contribute to clinical practice.

In ontology engineering, reusing (or extending) ontologies poses a significant challenge, requiring revising their ontological commitments and ensuring accurate representation and coherent reasoning. This study aims to address two main objectives. Firstly, it seeks to develop a methodological approach supporting ontology extension practices. Secondly, it aims to demonstrate its feasibility by applying the approach to the case of extending qualitative spatial reasoning (QSR) theories. Key questions involve effectively interpreting spatial extensions while maintaining consistency. The framework systematically analyzes extensions of formal ontologies, providing a reconstruction of a qualitative calculus. Reconstructed qualitative calculus demonstrates improved interpretative capabilities and reasoning accuracy. The research underscores the importance of methodological approaches when extending formal ontologies, with spatial interpretation serving as a valuable case study.

Abstract Motivated by the recent evidence for $$B^+\rightarrow K^+\bar{\nu } \nu $$ B + → K + ν ¯ ν decays at Belle II, we point out that fully invisible $$B_d$$ B d and $$B_s$$ B s meson decays are strongly constrained by LEP. A reinterpretation of an old inclusive ALEPH search for b-hadron decays with large missing energy allows us to place the limits $$\textrm{Br}(B_d \rightarrow \textrm{invisible}) < 1.4\times 10^{-4}$$ Br ( B d → invisible ) < 1.4 × 10 - 4 and $$\textrm{Br}(B_s \rightarrow \textrm{invisible}) < 5.6\times 10^{-4}$$ Br ( B s → invisible ) < 5.6 × 10 - 4 , both at $$90\%$$ 90 % CL. The $$B_d$$ B d limit is only a factor of 6 looser than the world-leading one provided by the BaBar collaboration, while the $$B_s$$ B s one is the first limit in the literature on this decay mode. These results are relevant in the context of new light states coupled to quarks and exemplify the power of a future Tera-Z factory at FCC-ee to look for B meson decays containing missing energy.

Abstract We present the νϕMTH, a Mirror Twin Higgs (MTH) model realizing asymmetric reheating, baryogenesis and twin-baryogenesis through the out-of-equilibrium decay of a right-handed neutrino without any hard $${\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$$ breaking. The MTH is the simplest Neutral Naturalness solution to the little hierarchy problem and predicts the existence of a twin dark sector related to the Standard Model (SM) by a $${\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$$ symmetry that is only softly broken by a higher twin Higgs vacuum expectation value. The asymmetric reheating cools the twin sector compared to the visible one, thus evading cosmological bounds on ∆N eff. The addition of (twin-)colored scalars allows for the generation of the visible baryon asymmetry and, by the virtue of the $${\mathbb{Z}}_{2}$$ symmetry, also results in the generation of a twin baryon asymmetry. We identify a unique scenario with top-philic couplings for the new scalars that can satisfy all cosmological, proton decay and LHC constraints; yield the observed SM baryon asymmetry; and generate a wide range of possible twin baryon DM fractions, from negligible to unity. The viable regime of the theory contains several hints as to the possible structure of the Twin Higgs UV completion. Our results motivate the search for the rich cosmological and astrophysical signatures of twin baryons, and atomic dark matter more generally, at cosmological, galactic and stellar scales.

Se describe un reporte de caso de un paciente masculino de 61 años que acude a emergencia por presentar cuadro clínico de una semana de evolución caracterizada por disnea de mínimos esfuerzos, disfonía, dolor precordial, y fatiga, acompañado de pérdida de peso. En la analítica de laboratorio destaca: anemia normocítica normocrómica, leucocitosis con neutrofilia, trombocitosis, creatinina de 10.1mg/dL, PCR elevada, proteinuria con hematuria y Anti-PR3-ANCA positivo. Biopsia renal revela glomerulonefritis proliferativa extracapilar pauci-inmune (“crescéntica”), etiquetando el diagnóstico como vasculitis asociada a ANCA con glomerulonefritis rápidamente progresiva. Se maneja inducción y mantenimiento con rituximab y esteroides en pulsos.

Microplastics (MPs) and artificial fibers (AFs) have been detected suspended tens of meters above ground level in the atmosphere, yet empirical data on them remain scarce. This study aimed to investigate the presence of MPs and AFs in the digestive and respiratory systems of two abundant bird species, the Common House Martin (Delichon urbicum) and the Common Swift (Apus apus), within the Community of Madrid, Spain. Given that these birds spend the majority of their lives airborne, engaging in activities such as mating and sleeping during flight, the research sought to assess the potential of using these bird species as bioindicators for suspended atmospheric MPs and AFs. Samples were obtained from necropsies of birds (N = 24) collected primarily between spring and summer from 2021 to 2023. Only individuals that died within the initial 24-hour period and had not been fed were selected for examination to avoid contamination. MPs and AFS were identified by micro-FTIR, characterized and quantified. Results revealed that 75 % of the sampled birds exhibited at least one MPs in their respiratory and/or digestive system. All identified MPs were fibers, with polyester (PES) being the most predominant (48 %), followed by acrylic fibers (ACR; 28 %), and polyethylene (PE; 18 %). The average concentrations in the respiratory system were 1.12 ± 0.45 MPs/specimen and 2.78 ± 1.04 AFs/specimen for Common Swift and 0.75 ± 0.30 MPs/specimen and 0.75 ± 0.36 AFs/specimen for House Martin. In the digestive system, these were 1.92 ± 0.72 MPs/specimen and 3.42 ± 0.69 AFs/specimen for Common Swift, and 1.34 ± 0.50 MPs/specimen and 1.39 ± 0.47 AFs/specimen for House Martin. Birds collected areas with high population density located in the direction of the prevailing winds showed a concentration of MPs significantly higher in the digestive system. Taken together, these findings confirmed the potential use of these birds as bioindicators for monitoring of suspended atmospheric MPs and AFs.

Objective: Describe our experience treating Charcot neuroarthropathy (CN) coexisting with concurrent bone infection in a single step, treated with external fixation, and report the mid-term radiographic and functional outcomes. Methods: Retrospective case series of patients diagnosed with CN and osteomyelitis treated with a single-step approach consisting of necrotic bone debridement and fusion extended over the affected joints using a circular external fixator with a minimum of 18 months of follow-up. Results: Six patients were evaluated, and three patients achieved excellent results and were able to walk outside their homes. One of them required a below-the-knee amputation due to persistent infection. Two patients had good results according to the Pinzur proposed evaluation scheme. All patients agreed that they would choose the reconstruction process for their deformity over an infrapatellar amputation. Conclusion: We believe the results from our case series apply to the previously published literature on this therapeutic modality. Level of evidence IV; Case series.

Background: Species within Phyllanthus genus exhibit a diverse range of experimentally validated pharmacological activities. Notably, Phyllanthus niruri Linneo(Phyllanthaceae), commonly referred to as stonebreaker, is a native Central and South American species with a rich history of use in traditional ethnomedicine for treating gastrointestinal and renal disorders. Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the application of various solvent mixtures to optimize the extraction of anti-hyperglycemic secondary metabolites from P. niruri. Methods: To optimize the extraction of anti-hyperglycemic compounds from P. niruri, a solvent mixture design strategy was employed. The optimized extracts were subjected to chemical characterization using spectrophotometric methods and HPLC-DAD analysis. Also, the influence of edaphoclimatic conditions on the composition of extracts was investigated. The anti-hyperglycaemic potential of the extracts was evaluated through both in vitro and in vivo assays. The in vitro studies included enzyme inhibition assays targeting α-glucosidase from two sources (yeast and pig). For in vivo studies, a rat model with oral starch overload was used to confirm the anti-hyperglycaemic activity of the extracts. Results: An optimal solvent mixture (70 % methanol and 30 % ethyl acetate) was found as effective for extracting compounds with anti-hyperglycemic potential from P. niruri. All the extracts obtained using this solvent inhibited both, yeast and pig α-glucosidase, with greater selectivity for inhibiting the yeast-derived enzyme. Extracts from aerial parts (AP) exhibited the strongest inhibitory activity. These extracts contained phenolic compounds, specifically flavonoids, but no condensed tannins were detected. Chromatographic analysis of profile revealed a major peak consistent with corilagin. In vivo studies using a dose of 500 mg kg-1 demonstrated that this extract significantly reduced blood sugar levels after starch overload in rats. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the importance of selecting appropriate solvent mixtures to extract bioactive compounds with anti-hyperglycemic properties from P. niruri. Our findings support the traditional use of this plant as a anti-hyperglycaemic agent in ethnomedicine.

Abstract Polariton canalization is characterized by intrinsic collimation of energy flow along a single crystalline axis. This optical phenomenon has been experimentally demonstrated at the nanoscale by stacking and twisting van der Waals (vdW) layers of α-MoO3, by combining α-MoO3 and graphene, or by fabricating an h-BN metasurface. However, these material platforms have significant drawbacks, such as complex fabrication and high optical losses in the case of metasurfaces. Ideally, it would be possible to canalize polaritons “naturally” in a single pristine layer. Here, we theoretically predict and experimentally demonstrate naturally canalized phonon polaritons (PhPs) in a single thin layer of the vdW crystal LiV2O5. In addition to canalization, PhPs in LiV2O5 exhibit strong field confinement ( $${{{{{{\boldsymbol{\lambda }}}}}}}_{{{{{{\bf{p}}}}}}} \sim \frac{{{{{{{\boldsymbol{\lambda }}}}}}}_{{{{{{\bf{0}}}}}}}}{{{{{{\bf{27}}}}}}}$$ λ p ~ λ 0 27 ), slow group velocity (0.0015c), and ultra-low losses (lifetimes of 2 ps). Our findings are promising for the implementation of low-loss optical nanodevices where strongly directional light propagation is needed, such as waveguides or optical routers.

Abstract Introduction Epilepsy is a disease characterized by an excessive discharge in neurons generally provoked without any external stimulus, known as convulsions. About 2 million people are diagnosed each year in the world. This process is carried out by a neurological doctor using an electroencephalogram (EEG), which is lengthy. Method To optimize these processes and make them more efficient, we have resorted to innovative artificial intelligence methods essential in classifying EEG signals. For this, comparing traditional models, such as machine learning or deep learning, with cutting-edge models, in this case, using Capsule-Net architectures and Transformer Encoder, has a crucial role in finding the most accurate model and helping the doctor to have a faster diagnosis. Result In this paper, a comparison was made between different models for binary and multiclass classification of the epileptic seizure detection database, achieving a binary accuracy of 99.92% with the Capsule-Net model and a multiclass accuracy with the Transformer Encoder model of 87.30%. Conclusion Artificial intelligence is essential in diagnosing pathology. The comparison between models is helpful as it helps to discard those that are not efficient. State-of-the-art models overshadow conventional models, but data processing also plays an essential role in evaluating the higher accuracy of the models.

Abstract Dark matter from a hidden sector with SU(N) gauge symmetry can have a nonabelian kinetic mixing portal with the standard model. The dark photon becomes massive in the confining phase without the need for spontaneous symmetry breaking. Depending on the particle content of the dark sector, there can be two or more composite vectors that get kinetic mixing through a heavy mediator particle X. This provides a model of composite dark photons giving a portal for direct detection of dark baryons. Avoiding exotic charged relics requires additional couplings allowing X to decay to dark quarks and standard model fields, leading to further portals between the dark matter and the standard model. We comprehensively study the constraints on such models from colliders, rare decays, direct detection, and big bang nucleosynthesis.

Abstract Background Halyomorpha halys Stål (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB), is a highly polyphagous invasive pest worldwide. It is also known to be a nuisance pest as it enters artificial structures, including human habitats, to overwinter and releases very unpleasant odours when disturbed. Overwintering populations can be trapped and killed collectively by targeting the aggregation behaviour of BMSB adults. However, efficient traps for catching overwinter population have not been yet developed and validated. A novel and effective trapping method would be to design shelter traps in the field that entice and mass-trap overwintering BMSB as they initiate to display their typical aggregation behavior and seek shelter in the traps. Methods In this study conducted in Northwestern China, we designed different BMSB overwintering shelter traps made of different materials (i.e., wood or corflute) and lock types (with/without lock, pyrometric or strip door lock) and tested their efficacy at two different sites and three different locations within sites. We also tested the efficacy of the traps with or without the presence of the BMSB aggregation pheromone. Results Although trapped BMSB numbers were generally low across all traps tested, the black corflute trap was found to attract the highest average number of BMSB males and females, followed by the wooden-made trap, the bee-hive box and finally the wooden-made locked trap, which attracted the lowest numbers of BMSB. The trapping efficacy was found to not be affected by experimental sites or locations nor by the presence of the BMSB aggregation pheromone lure. Conclusions Our results showed that traps made of black corflute with slit doors were generally preferred by overwintering BMSB. This preliminary proof-of-concept study provides valuable information for further improvement of novel overwintering traps that could be used to mass trap BMSB overwintering populations.

Resumen: La elevada incidencia de obesidad en nuestro medio, el carácter progresivo y recidivante de esta enfermedad hace necesario conocer y utilizar todas las posibilidades de prevención y tratamiento.Cuando una persona sufre obesidad debemos ofertar un plan de tratamiento con objetivos concretos que incluirá alimentación saludable, actividad física y si fuera necesario tratamiento con fármacos o incluso quirúrgico.En la actualidad para el tratamiento farmacológico, en España, disponemos de 3 medicamentos: • Orlistat, con escasa eficacia y poco uso. • Liraglutida y semaglutida, ambos basados en las incretinas y capaces de mejorar la obesidad, la diabetes y otras afecciones relacionadas con la obesidad. La elevada potencia y seguridad de estos medicamentos ha revolucionado el tratamiento farmacológico de la obesidad.Próximamente se comercializarán nuevas moléculas que permitirán ampliar las posibilidades de tratamiento, también se revisarán en el presente artículo. Abstract: The high incidence of obesity in our environment, the progressive and recurrent nature of this disease makes it necessary to know and use all the possibilities of prevention and treatment.When a person suffers from obesity we must offer a treatment plan with specific objectives that will include healthy eating, physical activity and, if necessary, treatment with medication or even surgery.At present in Spain, there are 3 medications available: • Orlistat, with low efficacy and little use. • Liraglutide and semaglutide, both based on incretins and capable of improving obesity, diabetes and other obesity-related conditions. The high potency and safety of these drugs has revolutionized the pharmacological treatment of obesity.New molecules will soon be marketed that will expand the treatment possibilities, which will also be reviewed in this article.

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the real use of cefazolin for methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) infective endocarditis (IE) in the Spanish National Endocarditis Database (GAMES) and to compare it with antistaphylococcal penicillin (ASP). Methods: Prospective cohort study with retrospective analysis of a cohort of MSSA IE treated with cloxacillin and/or cefazolin. Outcomes assessed were relapse; intra-hospital, overall, and endocarditis-related mortality; and adverse events. Risk of renal toxicity with each treatment was evaluated separately. Results: We included 631 IE episodes caused by MSSA treated with cloxacillin and/or cefazolin. Antibiotic treatment was cloxacillin, cefazolin, or both in 537 (85%), 57 (9%), and 37 (6%) episodes, respectively. Patients treated with cefazolin had significantly higher rates of comorbidities (median Charlson Index 7, P

Los motivos que llevan al alumnado universitario a desarrollar acciones de voluntariado son múltiples. Entre ellos, podemos encontrar la puesta en práctica de competencias de toda índole, la posibilidad de adquirir aprendizajes profesionales, la obtención de experiencia prelaboral y la mejora del currículum de cara a competir por un puesto de trabajo. El objetivo de la investigación se centra en analizar las motivaciones hacia la participación en voluntariado del estudiantado de Grado y Doble Grado (voluntario o no) de las cinco universidades presenciales de Valencia, observando, asimismo, las diferencias existentes en función del sexo, el curso y el área de conocimiento del alumnado. Para ello, se utilizó un diseño de investigación cuantitativo, aplicándose el Cuestionario de Motivaciones del Alumnado Universitario (CMV-AU) a una muestra de 1186 estudiantes (curso 2019/2020). Este cuestionario, adaptado y validado con dicha muestra, parte del Volunteer Function Inventory (VFI) de Clary et al. (1998). Los resultados evidencian que el estudiantado destaca las motivaciones relacionadas con la expresión de valores prosociales, la adquisición y puesta en práctica de habilidades y conocimientos, y la mejora del currículum. De igual forma, se observa que existen diferencias en el alumnado atendiendo a las variables analizadas. Estos resultados coinciden con los obtenidos en diversas investigaciones previas. Así, se concluye que el estudiantado universitario presenta mayor motivación de aprendizaje y mejora de currículum que otros colectivos, en especial las alumnas, el alumnado de los primeros cursos, y aquel matriculado en titulaciones de las áreas de Ciencias de la Salud y Ciencias Sociales y Jurídicas.

Desde febrero de 2020 la pandemia de COVID-19 se extendió por todo el planeta, impactando en todos los ámbitos de nuestra vida incluida la educación. Nos vimos forzados a renunciar a nuestras aulas físicas para dictar nuestras clases por videoconferencia. Este cambio tuvo distinto impacto dependiendo la forma en que cada docente venía dictando su materia. Luego de dos años la pandemia pasó y volvimos al aula pero de una forma distinta. El presente trabajo relata la experiencia de atravesar la pandemia y volver al aula en una materia de Ingeniería de Software dictada en la Universidad Nacional de Tres de Febrero. Junto con la experiencia se resumen una serie de aprendizajes obtenidos y un conjunto de reflexiones de cara al futuro.

Aim To describe the pattern of the prevalence of mental health problems during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic and examine the impact of containment measures on these trends.Methods We identified articles published until 30 August 2021 that reported the prevalence of mental health problems in the general population at two or more time points. A crowd of 114 reviewers extracted data on prevalence, study and participant characteristics. We collected information on the number of days since the first SARS-CoV-2 infection in the study country, the stringency of containment measures and the number of cases and deaths. We synthesised changes in prevalence during the pandemic using a random-effects model. We used dose-response meta-analysis to evaluate the trajectory of the changes in mental health problems.Results We included 41 studies for 7 mental health conditions. The average odds of symptoms increased during the pandemic (mean OR ranging from 1.23 to 2.08). Heterogeneity was very large and could not be explained by differences in participants or study characteristics. Average odds of psychological distress, depression and anxiety increased during the first 2 months of the pandemic, with increased stringency of the measures, reported infections and deaths. The confidence in the evidence was low to very low.Conclusions We observed an initial increase in the average risk of psychological distress, depression-related and anxiety-related problems during the first 2 months of the pandemic. However, large heterogeneity suggests that different populations had different responses to the challenges imposed by the pandemic.

Introducción: la incontinencia urinaria de exfuerzo (IUE) es una patología femenina frecuente cuya correcta evaluación es importante. .El estudio ultrasonográfico uretrovesical es un método relativamente inexplorado para el diagnóstico y causas de esta entidad. Objetivo: determinar el ángulo pubouretrovesical (PUV), movilidad uretral y distancia pubouretral en reposo y con las maniobras de valsalva y retención en pacientes con incontinencia urinaria de esfuerzo(IUE) y en mujeres sanas Materiales y Métodos: es un trabajo prospectivo longitudinal y analítico, realizado en el servicio de Ginecología del Hospital Essalud III de Puno, se calculó la especificidad, sensibilidad, valor predictivo positivo y valor predictivo negativo. Resultados: el ángulo PUV en pacientes con IUE fue en promedio de: reposo 77º, valsalva 124,6º, retención 67,9º, con una movilidad uretral de 47,6 º, mientras que en mujeres sanas se hallo: reposo 64,5 º, valsalva 78,9 º, retención 60,7 º y movilidad uretral 14,3 º Conclusiones: comparando ambos grupos sólo se alcanzó diferencia estadística altamente significativa en cuanto al ángulo pubouretrovesical en reposo, valsalva y la movilidad uretral. Aplicando al menos 2 de estos 3 criterios se calculó una sensibilidad de 93,3%, especificidad de 90,0%, VPP 90,3% y VPN 93,1% La ecografía perineal es un método útil para el diagnóstico de IUE

Given the complexity of integrating and forecasting the interconnected effects of body size, population dynamics, and energy availability, theoretical approaches that link ecological and computational knowledge are required. Individual attributes, such as body size, exert influence and are, in turn, influenced by community structure. Distinguishing between the processes that generate population patterns and making predictions poses a challenge in theoretical ecology, drawing on concepts ranging from traditional natural philosophy to contemporary physical sciences. To address this challenge, our research proposes a computational model for conducting theoretical-exploratory simulations of a biological community, incorporating body size, density, and population dynamics based on the Metabolic Theory of Ecology principles. This community includes reproductive and non-reproductive individuals transitioning between feeding and reproductive areas. Accounting for seasonal limits and finite energy, we delineate the dynamic relationship between body size and population abundance. Additionally, we present a temporal simulation of allometric exponents describing the density pattern. The findings highlight the importance of considering energetic limitations to maintain the relationship between body size and population density and present the possibility of temporally modeling the allometric exponent of this demographic pattern.

Abstract Background The diversity and population genetic structure of many species have been shaped by historical and contemporary climatic changes. For the species of the South American Altiplano, the historical climatic changes are mainly related to the wet events of great magnitude and regional influence that occurred during the Pleistocene climatic oscillations (PCOs). In contrast, contemporary climate changes are associated with events of lesser magnitude and local influence related to intensifications of the South American Summer Monsoon (SASM). Although multiple studies have analyzed the effect of PCOs on the genetic patterns of highland aquatic species, little is known about the impact of contemporary climate changes in recent evolutionary history. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the change in population structure and connectivity using nuclear and mitochondrial markers throughout the distribution range of Heleobia ascotanensis, a freshwater Cochliopidae endemic to the Ascotán Saltpan. In addition, using geometric morphometric analyses, we evaluated the concomitance of genetic divergence and morphological differentiation. Results The mitochondrial sequence analysis results revealed the presence of highly divergent co-distributed and geographically nested haplotypes. This pattern reflects an extension in the distribution of groups that previously would have differentiated allopatrically. These changes in distribution would have covered the entire saltpan and would be associated with the large-scale wet events of the PCOs. On the other hand, the microsatellite results defined five spatially isolated populations, separated primarily by geographic barriers. Contemporary gene flow analyses suggest that post-PCO, climatic events that would have connected all populations did not occur. The morphometric analyses results indicate that there is significant morphological differentiation in the populations that are more isolated and that present the greatest genetic divergence. Conclusions The contemporary population structure and morphological variation of H. ascotanensis mainly reflect the post-PCO climatic influence. Although both markers exhibit high genetic structuring, the microsatellite and morphology results show the preponderant influence of fragmentation in recent evolutionary history. The contemporary genetic pattern shows that in species that have limited dispersal capabilities, genetic discontinuities can appear rapidly, erasing signs of historical connectivity.

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the motor recovery. Rehabilitation robots have emerged as significant advancement, enabling repetitive therapeutic interventions in both clinical and home settings. In this context, the development of a highly functional, reliable, portable, and cost-effective mechatronic systems for wrist and hand rehabilitation represents a significant step in the field. This article focused on the design and implementation of the M3Rob device, a 3-DoF wrist exoskeleton equipped with a force sensor, allowing for the execution of active therapies, recognized for their effectiveness in motor recovery. Hence, a close-loop admittance control utilizing a joint-space target trajectory as input is presented and experimentally evaluated across three distinct levels of assistance. Moreover, to address the need for rehabilitation targeting activities of daily living, the device enables the incorporation of a hand exoskeleton for simultaneously performing hand and wrist rehabilitation. Featuring a range of motion of 180° for pronation/supination, 120° for flexion/extension, and 75° for ulnar/radial deviation, in combination with joint torques spanning from 7.85 to 43.86 Nm, the device covers the required motions and forces essential for daily activities. The presented device offers a comprehensive solution for wrist and hand rehabilitation, effectively addressing critical challenges in motor recovery.

Axonal regeneration in the spinal cord after traumatic injuries presents a challenge for researchers, primarily due to the nature of adult neurons and the inhibitory environment that obstructs neuronal regrowth. Here, we review current knowledge of the intricate network of molecular and cellular mechanisms that hinder axonal regeneration, with a focus on myelin-associated inhibitors (MAIs) and other inhibitory guidance molecules, as well as the pivotal pathways implicated in both inhibiting and facilitating axonal regrowth, such as PKA/AMP, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and Trk, alongside the regulatory roles of neurotrophins and axonal guidance cues. We also examine current insights into gene therapy, tissue engineering, and pharmacological interventions that show promise in overcoming barriers to axonal regrowth.

Protoceratium reticulatum, a dinoflagellate species known for producing yessotoxins (YTX), can form harmful algal blooms (HABs) impacting marine life. This study examined how P. reticulatum influenced the physiological rates and affected the tissue health of juvenile scallops, Argopecten purpuratus. The scallops were exposed to non-toxic algae Isochrysis galbana (diet A) and mixtures where 30 and 70% of the non-toxic algae were replaced by the toxic algae P. reticulatum (diet B and C, respectively) for 15 days, followed by a 15-day recovery period (I. galbana). Results showed that the clearance rate (CR), inorganic ingestion rate (IIR), organic ingestion rate (OIR), and absorption rate (AR) were significantly reduced within the first seven days of exposure to toxic diets, with reductions of approximately 25% and 50% in diets B and C, respectively, compared to the non-toxic diet, and an increase in these parameters during the recovery stage. Histological observations revealed greater tissue damage in the digestive gland than in the gills, with a higher frequency of scallops with severe damage correlating with higher toxic diet content. Despite no direct impact on survival, the compromised physiological health of A. purpuratus juveniles suggests increased vulnerability to other stressors. These findings provide new insights into the filter-feeding behavior and selective filtration capabilities of scallops in the presence of toxic dinoflagellates and how scallops health can be compromised, contributing to the understanding of how HABs and associated toxins affect A. purpuratus.

The blooms of Alexandrium catenella, the main producer of paralytic shellfish toxins worldwide, have become the main threat to coastal activities in Southern Chile, such as artisanal fisheries, aquaculture and public health. Here, we explore retrospective data from an intense Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning outbreak in Southern Chile in Summer–Autumn 2016, identifying environmental drivers, spatiotemporal dynamics, and detoxification rates of the main filter-feeder shellfish resources during an intense A. catenella bloom, which led to the greatest socio-economic impacts in that area. Exponential detoxification models evidenced large differences in detoxification dynamics between the three filter-feeder species surf clam (Ensis macha), giant barnacle (Austromegabalanus psittacus), and red sea squirt (Pyura chilensis). Surf clam showed an initial toxicity (9054 µg STX-eq·100 g−1) around 10-fold higher than the other two species. It exhibited a relatively fast detoxification rate and approached the human safety limit of 80 µg STX-eq·100 g−1 towards the end of the 150 days. Ecological implications and future trends are also discussed. Based on the cell density evolution, data previously gathered on the area, and the biology of this species, we propose that the bloom originated in the coastal area, spreading offshore thanks to the resting cysts formed and transported in the water column.

The shiitake mushroom has gained popularity in the last decade, ranking second in the world for mushrooms consumed, providing consumers with a wide variety of nutritional and healthy benefits. It is often not clear the origin of these mushrooms, so it becomes of great importance to the consumers. In this research, different machine learning algorithms were developed to determine the geographical origin of shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) consumed in Korea, based on experimental data reported in the literature (δ13C, δ15N, δ18O, δ34S, and origin). Regarding the origin of shiitake in three categories (Korean, Chinese, and mushrooms from Chinese inoculated sawdust blocks), the random forest model presents the highest accuracy value (0.940) and the highest kappa value (0.908) for the validation phase. To determine the origin of shiitake mushrooms in two categories (Korean and Chinese, including mushrooms from Chinese inoculated sawdust blocks in the latter ones), the support vector machine model is chosen as the best model due to the high accuracy (0.988) and kappa (0.975) values for the validation phase. Finally, to determine the origin in two categories (Korean and Chinese, but this time including the mushrooms from Chinese inoculated sawdust blocks in the Korean ones), the best model is the random forest due to its higher accuracy value (0.952) in the validation phase (kappa value of 0.869). The accuracy values in the testing phase for the best selected models are acceptable (between 0.839 and 0.964); therefore, the predictive capacity of the models could be acceptable for their use in real applications. This allows us to affirm that machine learning algorithms would be suitable modeling instruments to determine the geographical origin of shiitake.

The effect of land use on sandy soils of southern Botswana was carried out by comparing the composition and properties of soil organic matter. Non-disturbed and disturbed soils were sampled from savanna ecosystems (Central District and Kweneng District). The biodegradability of organic matter was evaluated by incubation in the laboratory. Humic fractions were quantified and humic acids were analyzed by visible and infrared spectroscopy. The results indicate that continued disturbance, whether due to grazing or subsistence farming, has resulted in small yet significant changes in the concentration of available nutrients and organic matter in the soil. Nevertheless, substantial changes could be established in the soil C/N ratio, in the humic acid/fulvic acid ratio, and in the biodegradability of soil organic matter and the structural characteristics of humic acids. The increased aromaticity of humic acid (visible and IR spectroscopies) following disturbance suggests increased biogeochemical activity and/or the impact of abiotic processes (such as periodic fires) selectively removing aliphatic constituents. The overall results indicate low potential soil fertility, the sustainable preservation of which depends more on features related to quality than on the total amount of the soil organic matter, which shows aromatization parallel to its degree of association with the mineral fraction.

In recent decades, the cultivation of avocados (Persea americana Mill) has expanded throughout the Iberian Peninsula, with most of the production occurring on the Southern Atlantic and Mediterranean Coast, as well as in the Canary Islands. This expansion is due to high demand and high prices, which have made the crop very attractive. However, climatic suitability criteria have not always been followed, putting sustainability at risk. Avocados originate from tropical and subtropical areas and have very specific climatic requirements that must be met to ensure good production. This study analyzed the key climatic variables, including winter cold damage, pollen viability and flowering and fruit set temperatures. Using daily climate data from 1975 to 2022, advanced spatial analysis techniques were applied to produce suitability maps. The results indicate that the expansion of the crop is possible in certain areas of Southern Andalusia but not in the rest of the peninsula. Variables associated with low temperatures, such as cold damage (temperatures below 0 °C in winter) and conditions unfavorable for fruit set (minimum daily temperatures below 10 °C in spring), have been identified as the most restrictive factors. Specifically, the number of days with minimum temperatures above 10 °C in March and April appears to be the most limiting climatic factor for avocado cultivation in the Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands. Andalusia and the Valencian Community have been identified as the most climatically suitable regions for avocado cultivation, with approximately 1,500,000 hectares recognized as potentially suitable for avocado production. This work provides valuable insights into the potential for sustainable agricultural intensification, the sustainability of agricultural decision-making and resilience to climate change.

Introducción: La neuropatía autonómica cardíaca es una entidad poco conocida y subdiagnosticada en los pacientes diabéticos, la cual se caracteriza por el daño de las fibras nerviosas autónomas; ocasiona síntomas como intolerancia al ejercicio e hipotensión postural. La prevalencia y los factores de riesgo en la población diabética colombiana son poco claros y poco estudiados. Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de la neuropatía autonómica cardíaca y de los factores asociados en pacientes diabéticos de una población colombiana. Materiales y método: Estudio transversal analítico, en una población de 107 pacientes con diagnóstico de diabetes mellitus tipos I y II, que consultaron a un hospital de segundo nivel de atención en Colombia, entre abril y septiembre de 2022. Se realizó diagnóstico utilizando el test de Ewing de reflejo autonómico cardiovascular. Los análisis estadísticos fueron del orden descriptivo y de asociación mediante regresión logística calculando razón de disparidad e intervalos de confianza del 95%. Resultados: La población estudiada tuvo una edad promedio de 62 años; el 56.1% fueron mujeres. El 94.4% (IC 95%: 89.9-98.6) de los participantes presentaron una evaluación positiva para neuropatía autonómica cardíaca; el estado incipiente fue del 6.5%, la afectación confirmada del 26.2% y el compromiso grave del 61.7%. La edad está asociada con la aparición de neuropatía autonómica cardíaca (ORa: 1.07; IC 95%: 1.03-1.11). Conclusiones: Este estudio encontró alta prevalencia de neuropatía autonómica cardíaca (94.4%) cuando se utilizó el estándar de oro de diagnóstico. La edad de los pacientes tiene asociación con la presencia y la gravedad de esta enfermedad.

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.

Hydrogen embrittlement is a multifaceted phenomenon that can significantly compromise the toughness of susceptible metals. We study the critical process of hydrogen diffusion within the body-centered cubic lattice of iron (BCC-Fe or α−Fe) using ab-initio density functional theory (DFT). Beyond standard investigations on the effect of hydrostatic stress, we extend our study to incorporate the influence of uniaxial and pure shear stress states. We find substantial alterations in diffusion barriers. Moreover, we study scenarios involving paired point (zero-dimensional) defects, including one vacancy and an additional interstitial hydrogen atom. Calculations comprehend various configurations and transitions between them, providing insight into the interplay between the chemical environment and mechanical fields. The barrier values here determined offer essential data for complementary techniques, including Monte-Carlo models, to accurately describe hydrogen diffusion. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of hydrogen embrittlement, offering insight that can inform the design of safer materials used in structural engineering.

IntroductionThe presence of non-coronary atherosclerosis (NCA) in patients with coronary artery disease is associated with a poor prognosis. We have studied whether NCA is also a predictor of poorer outcomes in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).Materials and methodsThis is an observational study involving 567 consecutive patients who underwent CABG. Variables and prognosis were analysed based on the presence or absence of NCA, defined as previous stroke, transient ischaemic attack (TIA), or peripheral artery disease (PAD) [lower extremity artery disease (LEAD), carotid disease, previous lower limb vascular surgery, or abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)]. The primary outcome was a combination of TIA/stroke, acute myocardial infarction, new revascularization procedure, or death. The secondary outcome added the need for LEAD revascularization or AAA surgery.ResultsOne-hundred thirty-eight patients (24%) had NCA. Among them, traditional cardiovascular risk factors and older age were more frequently present. At multivariate analysis, NCA [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.27–2.69], age (HR = 1.35, 95% CI 1.09–1.67, p = 0.004), and diabetes mellitus (HR = 1.50, 95% CI 1.05–2.15, p = 0.025), were positively associated with the development of the primary outcome, while estimated glomerular filtration rate (HR = 0.86, 95% CI 0.80–0.93, p = 0.001) and use of left internal mammary artery (HR = 0.36, 95% CI 0.15–0.82, p = 0.035), were inversely associated with this outcome. NCA was also an independent predictor of the secondary outcome. Mortality was also higher in NCA patients (27.5% vs. 9%, p

Abstract In this work, ultrathin nickel films are developed for application as transparent electrodes in thermoelectric devices. The quality of the films is determined systematically by electrical, optical, and morphological characterization in a series of samples with different thickness. The thermal properties of the films show a dramatic dependence of the Seebeck coefficient on the film thickness. This dependence, with values ranging from −16 to +5 𝜇V K−1 for thicknesses from 10 to 2 nm, includes a change in the behavior of the thermoelectric response from n‐ to p‐type. It has also been demonstrated that the accurate estimation of the thermal conductivity in thin films is challenging due to substrate effects. In this situation, a differential measurement method based on scanning thermal microscopy is proposed, as in these conditions the measurements are less sensitive to the substrate effects. In further works, the dependence of the thermal properties of ultrathin nickel films can be exploited as a tuning parameter for the design of thermoelectric devices.

En el presente artículo construimos modelos explicativos sobre el posicionamiento subjetivo de clase social en Argentina, que aporten nueva evidencia y líneas de análisis, considerando el devenir histórico de esas tendencias. Los análisis que presentamos se basan en los datos de la Encuesta Mundial de Valores y en la Encuesta Nacional sobre la Estructura social de Argentina y Políticas públicas durante la pandemia por Covid-19. Entre los principales resultados, encontramos que existe un grado razonable de correspondencia objetiva entre la posición de clase social y su identificación subjetiva, aunque este arreglo se encuentre mediado por los contextos políticos y económicos que marcan coyunturas diferenciales, y que dan lugar a diversos repertorios simbólicos de imágenes de clase.

Foxb1 -expressing neurons occur in the dorsal premammillary nucleus (PMd) and further rostrally in the parvafox nucleus, a longitudinal cluster of neurons in the lateral hypothalamus of rodents. The descending projection of these Foxb1+ neurons end in the dorsolateral part of the periaqueductal gray (dlPAG). The functional role of the Foxb1+ neuronal subpopulation in the PMd and the parvafox nucleus remains elusive. In this study, the activity of the Foxb1+ neurons and of their terminal endings in the dlPAG in mice was selectively altered by employing chemo- and optogenetic tools. Our results show that in whole-body barometric plethysmography, hM3Dq-mediated, global Foxb1+ neuron excitation activates respiration. Time-resolved optogenetic gain-of-function manipulation of the terminal endings of Foxb1+ neurons in the rostral third of the dlPAG leads to abrupt immobility and bradycardia. Chemogenetic activation of Foxb1+ cell bodies and ChR2-mediated excitation of their axonal endings in the dlPAG led to a phenotypical presentation congruent with a ‘freezing-like’ situation during innate defensive behavior.

The biodiversity of molluscs is highly threatened in marine, terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems worldwide. This research aimed at studying the distribution and conservation status of eight poorly-known micro-snails of the genera Stephacharopa and Stephadiscus in Chile. We performed a comprehensive review of literature and databases to determine the occurrences of the species, which were mapped on vector layers containing protected areas and human development infrastructure to find potential threats. Conservation status assessment was performed following the criteria and tools implemented by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List and NatureServe. We also conducted species distribution models, based on maximum entropy, to identify areas that should be prioritised for conservation. Two species meet the criteria for IUCN listing as Critically Endangered (CR), four Endangered (EN), one Vulnerable (Vu) and one Least Concern (LC). This classification is rather coincident with equivalent categories obtained under the NatureServe standard, in which two species were ranked as Critically Imperiled (N1), five Imperiled (N2) and one Vulnerable (N3). We found that Stephacharopa paposensis is the most at-risk species, with only one occurrence not included in a protected area, followed by Stephadiscus stuardoi, with two occurrences, one of them within a protected area. Stephadiscus lyratus was the species with the greatest geographic range, accounting for 17 occurrences, seven matching a protected area. We found wider potential ranges in modelled species that may be useful for prioritising conservation measures. Considering distributional data, protected areas and more than 20 plausible threats identified, we propose potential in situ and ex situ conservation actions to protect these neglected micro-snails.

Abstract We explore the data-parallel acceleration of physics-informed machine learning (PIML) schemes, with a focus on physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) for multiple graphics processing units (GPUs) architectures. In order to develop scale-robust and high-throughput PIML models for sophisticated applications which may require a large number of training points (e.g., involving complex and high-dimensional domains, non-linear operators or multi-physics), we detail a novel protocol based on h-analysis and data-parallel acceleration through the Horovod training framework. The protocol is backed by new convergence bounds for the generalization error and the train-test gap. We show that the acceleration is straightforward to implement, does not compromise training, and proves to be highly efficient and controllable, paving the way towards generic scale-robust PIML. Extensive numerical experiments with increasing complexity illustrate its robustness and consistency, offering a wide range of possibilities for real-world simulations.

Este artículo de revisión presenta una comparación teórica de la realidad salarial policial, frente a los estipendios de 16 entidades del Estado en materia ocupacional y 14 a nivel nominal, analizados bajo los criterios de homogeneidad-diferencia, desde un enfoque cualitativo con carácter descriptivo. A partir de la triangulación de datos provenientes de diferentes fuentes, se intenta mostrar al lector distintos escenarios en materia organizacional y su relación con los regímenes legal, salarial, prestacional, de funciones y competencias. Para tal fin, se realiza un análisis de contexto, que tiene por objetivo general, alinear las etapas de identificación de similitudes y disimilitudes relacionadas con estructuras jerárquicas, niveles de riesgo, política remunerativa y marco jurídico que les definen, logrando identificar las brechas existentes entre los estipendios del sector público y la Policía Nacional de Colombia.

Research on two-dimensional materials is one of the most relevant fields in materials science. Layered double hydroxides (LDHs), a versatile class of anionic clays, exhibit great potential in photocatalysis, energy storage and conversion, and environmental applications. However, its implementation in real-life devices requires the development of efficient and reproducible large-scale synthesis processes. Unfortunately, reliable methods that allow for the production of large quantities of two-dimensional LDHs with well-defined morphologies and high crystallinity are very scarce. In this work, we carry out a scale-up of the urea-based CoAl-LDH synthesis method. We thoroughly study the effects of the mass scale-up (25-fold: up to 375 mM) and the volumetric scale-up (20-fold: up to 2 L). For this, we use a combination of several structural (XRD, TGA, and N2 and CO2 isotherms), microscopic (SEM, TEM, and AFM), magnetic (SQUID), and spectroscopic techniques (ATR-FTIR, UV–vis, XPS, ICP-MS, and XANES-EXAFS). In the case of the volumetric scale-up, a reduction of 45% in the lateral dimensions of the crystals (from 3.7 to 2.0 µm) is observed as the reaction volume increases. This fact is related to modified heating processes affecting the alkalinization rates and, concomitantly, the precipitation, even under recrystallization at high temperatures. In contrast, for the tenfold mass scale-up, similar morphological features were observed and assigned to changes in nucleation and growth. However, at higher concentrations, simonkolleite-like Co-based layered hydroxide impurities are formed, indicating a phase competition during the precipitation related to the thermodynamic stability of the growing phases. Overall, this work demonstrates that it is possible to upscale the synthesis of high-quality hexagonal CoAl-LDH in a reproducible manner. It highlights the most critical synthesis aspects that must be controlled and provides various fingerprints to trace the quality of these materials. These results will contribute to bringing the use of these 2D layered materials closer to reality in different applications of interest.

Abstract Motivated by the recent experimental realization of minimal Kitaev chains using quantum dots, we investigate the Majorana zero modes (MZM) in Y-shape Kitaev wires. We solve the associated Kitaev models analytically at the sweet spot (t h = Δ) and derive the exact form of MZM wave-functions in this geometry. We observed exotic multi-site MZMs located near the junction center, on the nearby edge sites of each leg. This result is important for potential braiding of Majoranas and the performance of Y-junctions made from arrays of quantum dots. Furthermore, we study the stability of local (single-site) and multi-site MZMs modes in the presence of Coulomb repulsion, using density matrix renormalization group theory. Our local density-of-states calculation shows that these multi-site MZMs are as equally topologically protected as the single-site MZMs when in the presence of Coulomb repulsion or when away from the sweet-spot.

Abstract Microbiomes confer beneficial physiological traits to their host, but microbial diversity is inherently variable, challenging the relationship between microbes and their contribution to host health. Here, we compare the diversity and architectural complexity of the epidermal microbiome from 74 individual whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) across five aggregations globally to determine if network properties may be more indicative of the microbiome-host relationship. On the premise that microbes are expected to exhibit biogeographic patterns globally and that distantly related microbial groups can perform similar functions, we hypothesized that microbiome co-occurrence patterns would occur independently of diversity trends and that keystone microbes would vary across locations. We found that whale shark aggregation was the most important factor in discriminating taxonomic diversity patterns. Further, microbiome network architecture was similar across all aggregations, with degree distributions matching Erdos–Renyi-type networks. The microbiome-derived networks, however, display modularity indicating a definitive microbiome structure on the epidermis of whale sharks. In addition, whale sharks hosted 35 high-quality metagenome assembled genomes (MAGs) of which 25 were present from all sample locations, termed the abundant ‘core’. Two main MAG groups formed, defined here as Ecogroup 1 and 2, based on the number of genes present in metabolic pathways, suggesting there are at least two important metabolic niches within the whale shark microbiome. Therefore, while variability in microbiome diversity is high, network structure and core taxa are inherent characteristics of the epidermal microbiome in whale sharks. We suggest the host-microbiome and microbe-microbe interactions that drive the self-assembly of the microbiome help support a functionally redundant abundant core and that network characteristics should be considered when linking microbiomes with host health.