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The ocean remains a reservoir of unknown biodiversity, particularly in the deep sea. Chemosynthesis-based ecosystems, such as hydrothermal vents and hydrocarbon seeps, host unique and diverse life forms that continue to be discovered and described. The present study focuses on patelliform gastropods (limpets) collected from Pacific Costa Rica Margin hydrocarbon seeps during three research cruises from 2017 to 2019. Genetic and morphological analyses revealed the presence of several new lineages within the genera Bathyacmaea Okutani, Tsuchida & Fujikura,1992, Cocculina Dall, 1882, Paralepetopsis McLean, 1990, and the family Lepetodrilidae McLean, 1988: Bathyacmaea levinae sp. nov., Paralepetopsis variabilis sp. nov., Pseudolepetodrilus costaricensis gen. et sp. nov., and Cocculina methana sp. nov. These investigations also expanded the known ranges of the species Pyropelta corymba McLean, 1992 and Lepetodrilus guaymasensis McLean, 1988 to the Costa Rica Margin. This research highlights the uniqueness of gastropod fauna at the Costa Rica Margin and contributes to our understanding of the biodiversity at chemosynthesis-based deep-sea ecosystems in the face of global biodiversity loss and increased commercial interest in deep-sea resources.

Abstract The Maipo River catchment is one of Chile’s most polluted basins. In recent decades, discharges of untreated sewage and organic matter have caused eutrophication and water quality degradation. We employed the indigenous silverfish species Basilichthys microlepidotus as a model organism to investigate the process of adaptation and selection on genes influenced by pollution. Using variation at single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we determined the temporal stability of the population structure patterns previously identified in this species by varying SNPs. We also examined local adaptation to pollution-selected genes. Using the genotypes of 7684 loci in 180 individuals, we identified 429 and 700 loci that may be undergoing selection. We detected these loci using the FSTHET and ARLEQUIN outlier detection software, respectively. Both software packages simultaneously identified a total of 250 loci. B. microlepidotus' population structure did not change over time at contaminated or unpolluted sites. In addition, our analysis found: (i) selection of genes associated with pollution, consistent with observations in other organisms; (ii) identification of candidate genes that are functionally linked to the same biological processes, molecular functions and/or cellular components that previously showed differential expression in the same populations; and (iii) a candidate gene with differential expression and a non-synonymous substitution.

El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar el efecto de un programa de intervención basado en el modelo ludotécnico y el de enseñanza comprensiva del deporte (Teaching Games for Understanding, TGfU) en la motivación de los jugadores de hockey sobre patines. La intervención constaba de 14 sesiones de entrenamiento. Se desarrolló un estudio cuasiexperimental con una comparación anterior y posterior a la intervención de 11 jugadores de hockey sobre patines de la categoría sub-10 (M = 7.18, DE = 0.83) procedentes de un club escolar español. Se empleó la escala de motivación deportiva para analizar los diversos tipos de motivación. En general, los resultados revelaron un aumento de algunas formas autónomas de motivación y un descenso de la motivación controlada, tal y como se había hipotetizado. En cuanto a la motivación autónoma, la intervención tuvo un efecto positivo en la motivación intrínseca hacia el conocimiento y la motivación intrínseca hacia la estimulación. Por otro lado, los resultados mostraron una disminución de las regulaciones introyectada y externa de los jugadores. Por tanto, la intervención resultó útil para disminuir los tipos de motivación más negativos establecidos en la teoría de la autodeterminación. Este estudio demuestra de forma preliminar que una unidad didáctica híbrida ludotécnica/TGfU se puede aplicar a un deporte como el hockey sobre patines para mejorar de manera significativa la motivación de los jugadores.

La toma de decisiones acertadas sobre la conservación de especies, debe fundamentarse en el mejor conocimiento sobre el o los objetos de interés, considerándose como paso inicial en este proceso el definir de la manera más detallada posible su distribución geográfica. En Ecuador, en los últimos años, ha habido un notable incremento en el registro de especies de aves en lugares en donde antes no se había reportado su presencia, este fenómeno se atribuye a la existencia de vacíos de información, limitada investigación y al incremento en el número de observadores de aves. En este trabajo presentamos información actualizada sobre la distribución de 13 especies de aves que habitan la Amazonía ecuatoriana (Spatula discors, Charadrius collaris, Vanellus chilensis, Calidris minutilla, Tringa melanoleuca, Claravis talpacoti, Chloroceryle aenea, Porphyrio martinica, Heliornis fulica, Gymnoderus foetidus, Tyrannus savana, Megascops choliba, Anhinga anhinga), todas reportadas por primera vez en la provincia de Zamora Chinchipe, sur este del país. Nuestros resultados sugieren que los ríos juegan el papel de corredores de dispersión para la mayoría de estas especies; y, que los procesos de alteración antrópica facilitan lacolonización para aquellas especies consideradas generalistas de hábitat. Los registros aquí presentados incrementan nuestro conocimiento sobre la distribución de las aves en el sureste de Ecuador.

Nematoda is the fourth most diverse animal phylum and is widely distributed. Marine nematodes are generally the most speciose group of meiofauna, yet there are relatively few studies on the taxonomy and biodiversity of free living marine nematodes. Here we present a review of the existing scientific literature and data in international databases on marine nematodes of Costa Rica. Most of the papers currently available mentioned Nematoda as the most abundant phylum in terms of the number of individuals within sand samples, nonetheless, only three publications included taxonomic data such as the description of new species or new records. Most publications are for the Pacific coast and we found only one paper for the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Large sections of the coasts and almost all the Exclusive Economic Zone remain unexplored in terms of nematode diversity, abundance and ecological role. Ten species, five free-living and five parasitic species, have been reported from the coasts of Costa Rica. Several reports indicate the presence of nematodes without further identification. More effort should be dedicated to the taxonomic identification of nematodes since, in addition to being the most abundant group, they can also be used as biological indicators.

Abstract No-take marine protected areas (MPAs) can mitigate the effects of overfishing, climate change and habitat degradation, which are leading causes of an unprecedented global biodiversity crisis. However, assessing the effectiveness of MPAs, especially in remote oceanic islands, can be logistically challenging and often restricted to relatively shallow and accessible environments. Here, we used a long-term dataset (2010–2019) collected by the DeepSee submersible of the Undersea Hunter Group that operates in Isla del Coco National Park, Costa Rica, to (1) determine the frequency of occurrence of elasmobranch species at two depth intervals (50–100 m; 300–400 m), and (2) investigate temporal trends in the occurrence of common elasmobranch species between 2010 and 2019, as well as potential drivers of the observed changes. Overall, we observed 17 elasmobranch species, 15 of which were recorded on shallow dives (50–100 m) and 11 on deep dives (300–400 m). We found a decreasing trend in the probability of occurrence of Carcharhinus falciformis over time (2010–2019), while other species (e.g. Taeniurops meyeni, Sphyrna lewini, Carcharhinus galapagensis, Triaenodon obesus, and Galeocerdo cuvier) showed an increasing trend. Our study suggests that some species like S. lewini may be shifting their distributions towards deeper waters in response to ocean warming but may also be sensitive to low oxygen levels at greater depths. These findings highlight the need for regional 3D environmental information and long-term deepwater surveys to understand the extent of shark and ray population declines in the ETP and other regions, as most fishery-independent surveys from data-poor countries have been limited to relatively shallow waters.

Background Both cancer and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are the leading causes of death worldwide. Although our previous study detected a relationship between CVD and cancer incidence, limited evidence is available regarding the relationship between CVD, cardiovascular risk factors, and cancer mortality. Methods and Results A prospective cohort study using data from the continuous NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1999–2016) merged with Medicare and National Death Index mortality data, through December 31, 2018. We included individuals with no history of cancer at baseline. The primary exposure was CVD at baseline. We also conducted a comprehensive risk factor analysis as secondary exposure. The main outcome was cancer mortality data collected from Medicare and National Death Index. We included 44 591 adult individuals representing 1 738 423 317 individuals (52% female, 67% non‐Hispanic White, and 9% Hispanic). Competing risk modeling showed a significantly higher risk of cancer mortality in individuals with CVD (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.37 [95% CI 1.07–1.76], P=0.01) after adjusting for age, sex, and race and ethnicity. Notably, cancer mortality increased with aging (aHR, 1.08 [95% CI 1.05–1.11], P

Neste trabalho, nosso objetivo principal é apresentar de forma simples, o processo de construção do corpo de raízes de um polinômio através da adjunção de raízes, onde é um subcorpo dos números complexos C. São explorados alguns casos de racionalização da Álgebra Elementar, em extensões algébricas simples dos racionais, usando duas abordagens metodológicas distintas obtidas da Álgebra Abstrata. O caso especial das raízes n-ésimas da unidade do polinômio é analisado do ponto de vista geométrico e da obtenção de seu corpo de raízes. Além disso, é apresentada de modo didático uma conexão entre as raízes n-ésimas da unidade e sua aplicação em processamento de sinais digitais. Por último, é apresentada uma análise de um movimento vibratório de pequena amplitude relacionando-o com as raízes de uma equação quadrática derivada do modelo do sistema físico adotado. Palavras-chave: Álgebra abstrata. Racionalização Algébrica. Processamento de sinais. Sistemas físicos estáveis.

Rhus aromatica inhabits humid oak and oakpine forests in the State of Michoacán (Mexico). The fruit of R. aromatica is edible and is traditionally used in the preparation of soft drinks, ice pops, ice creams and ‘atole’. The objective of the present investigation was to carry out a physical and chemical characterization and analysis of the antioxidant capacity of fruit. For the physical characterization, the equatorial and longitudinal diameter, weight and percentage of pulp were determined. In the chemical characterization, a proximal analysis was carried out, quantification of polyphenols and flavonoids was performed, and the antioxidant capacity was determined. The results showed that the fruit had a longitudinal diameter of 6.58 ± 1.02 mm, an equatorial diameter of 7.17 ± 0.66, a weight of 55.22 ± 5.47 mg, and a 40 % pulp proportion. The chemical characterization analysis indicated 8.7 % moisture, 30.6 % lipids, 8.7 % proteins, 29.4 % total sugars, 3.8 % ashes and 18.7 % crude fibre, 3.1 °Brix, pH 3.1, 1.92 % acidity total and a caloric intake of 4.27 kcal/g. The polyphenol content was higher in 60 % ethanol extracts with 88.6 ± 50.89 mg EAG/g; for flavonoids from extracts with 100 % acetone, it was 26.52 ± 0.65 mg EQ/g, and the total carotenoid content was 46.37 mg/100 g. The total antioxidant activity was higher in extracts with 80 % acetone, with 87.17 % inhibition of the DPPH radical and 90 % inhibition of ABTS without showing a significant difference with the different solvents used. The lowest IC50 values were presented in 100 % ethanol and 60 % methanol extracts for the DPPH radical and for the ABTS radical were the 80 % ethanol and 60 % methanol extracts. The lipid, protein, carotenoid, and polyphenol contents and antioxidant capacity of the fruit of R. aromatica were as high as those of other fruits consumed in the human diet.

Despite the location (Earth or Space), surgical simulation is a vital part of improving technical skills and ensuring patients' safety in the real procedure. The purpose of this study is to describe the Space System for Minimally Invasive Surgery (SY-MIS©) project, which started in 2016 under the supervision of the Center for Space Systems (C-SET). The process connects the best features of the following machines: Biomedik Surgeon, Space Biosurgeon, SP-LAP 1, and SP-LAP 2, which were defined using the VDI 2221 guidelines. This research uses methods based on 3 standards: i) Biomedical design: ISO 9001-13485 / FDA 21 CFR 820.30 / ASTM F1744-96(2016); ii) Aerospace human factors: HF-STD-001; iii) Mechatronics design: VDI 2206. The results depict the conceptual biomedical design of a novel training system named Surgical Engineering and Mechatronic System (SETY©), which integrates the use of 2 laparoscopic tools and 2 anthropomorphic mini-robotic arms (6 DOF). It has been validated by the Evaluation of Technical Criteria, getting a total score of 90% related to clinical assessment, machine adaptability, and robustness. The novelty of the research lies in the introduction of a new procedure that covers the simultaneous use of laparoscopic and robotic systems, named Hybrid Cyber-Physical Surgery (HYS©). In conclusion, the development of SY-MIS© promotes the use of advanced technologies to improve surgical procedures and human-machine medical cooperation for the next frontier of habitability on other planets. Doi: 10.28991/ESJ-2024-08-02-01 Full Text: PDF

Abstract This study aims at identifying risk-related patterns of left ventricular contraction dynamics via novel volume transient characterization. A multicenter cohort of AMI survivors (n = 1021) who underwent Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) after infarction was considered for the study. The clinical endpoint was the 12-month rate of major adverse cardiac events (MACE, n = 73), consisting of all-cause death, reinfarction, and new congestive heart failure. Cardiac function was characterized from CMR in 3 potential directions: by (1) volume temporal transients (i.e. contraction dynamics); (2) feature tracking strain analysis (i.e. bulk tissue peak contraction); and (3) 3D shape analysis (i.e. 3D contraction morphology). A fully automated pipeline was developed to extract conventional and novel artificial-intelligence-derived metrics of cardiac contraction, and their relationship with MACE was investigated. Any of the 3 proposed directions demonstrated its additional prognostic value on top of established CMR indexes, myocardial injury markers, basic characteristics, and cardiovascular risk factors (P

Summary: Iliac crest free flap is still essential as a source of vascularized bone tissue, having a definite role in osseous reconstruction of the face and other small bone defects. Some of its drawbacks include laborious dissection and donor site morbidity. We report a case of a patient that presented to our follow-up consultation ten years after iliac crest free flap harvest with new complaints of pain, gait disturbance and swelling in the right hip. Imaging exams revealed a heterotopic bone formation and helped with the diagnosis of heterotopic ossification (HO) of the right iliacus bone. Surgical intervention was needed for debridement of the heterotopic bone, with resolution of the symptoms. To our knowledge, this is the first report of HO after iliac crest free flap harvest. This rare condition adds to an already well-known number of donor zone complications of this flap. Plastic surgeons should be aware of this complication, as it can cause disability many years after the original surgery.

Abstract Background The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has raised awareness of the importance of air quality. This pilot study arose from the need to reduce the concentration of particulate matter in the dental office during orthodontic procedures. To evaluate the efficacy of using an air purifier during orthodontic care in the dental office to reduce the concentration of ambient particulate matter. Results Significant reductions in particle numbers were obtained for all particle sizes except the largest particles counted (10 μm) through use of the air filter. A marked association between higher humidity levels and higher particle counts was also observed. Conclusions Using an air purifier during dental care achieves a significant reduction in the concentration of ambient particles in the dental office. There is a correlation between higher relative humidity and higher particle concentration. The probability of obtaining a maximum particulate concentration level of 0.3 and 0.5 μm is 1000 times lower when using an air purifier.

O Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia da Bahia (IFBA) tornou-se uma referência na oferta de cursos técnicos de nível médio, mas a avaliação desses cursos ainda é limitada. Diante disso, este estudo foi realizado no IFBA para compreender a percepção dos estudantes sobre a formação nos cursos técnicos integrados. Buscou-se realizar um estudo de caso, onde se utilizou um instrumento de coleta de dados do tipo questionário. No questionário, abordaram-se diferentes aspectos, como condições socioeconômicas, permanência, formação e empregabilidade. O estudo foi submetido e aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa (CEP) do IFBA e pelo Regulamento Geral de Proteção de Dados (RGPD) em Portugal. Os questionários foram aplicados na forma online, utilizando a ferramenta FormsUA (https://forms.ua.pt/). Os resultados revelaram que os estudantes reconhecem a importância da formação integrada e relatam o desenvolvimento de habilidades profissionais e de cidadania. No entanto, foram identificadas áreas que precisam ser aprimoradas, como os desafios socioeconômicos enfrentados pelos estudantes e a relação entre a formação teórica e prática. Esses resultados podem subsidiar melhorias nas políticas e práticas educacionais do IFBA, visando aprimorar a qualidade da formação nos cursos técnicos integrados. Além disso, contribuem para o avanço da avaliação de programas nos Institutos Federais (IFs), fornecendo insights valiosos sobre a experiência dos estudantes e a efetividade da formação oferecida.

Minimally invasive surgical techniques have demonstrated superior outcomes across various elective procedures. Laparoscopic surgery (LS) is established in general surgery with laparoscopic operations for acute appendicitis and cholecystitis being the standard of care. Robotic surgery (RS) has been associated with equivalent or improved postoperative outcomes compared with LS. This increasing uptake of RS in emergency general surgery has encouraged the adoption of robotic acute care programs across the world. The key elements required to build a sustainable RS program are an enthusiastic surgical team, intensive training, resources and marketing. This review is a comprehensive layout elaborating the step-by-step process that has helped our high-volume level I trauma center in establishing a successful robotic acute care surgery program.

Since the discovery of specific immune memory in invertebrates, researchers have investigated its immune response to diverse microbial and environmental stimuli. Nevertheless, the extent of the immune system’s interaction with metabolism, remains relatively enigmatic. In this mini review, we propose a comprehensive investigation into the intricate interplay between metabolism and specific immune memory. Our hypothesis is that cellular endocycles and epigenetic modifications play pivotal roles in shaping this relationship. Furthermore, we underscore the importance of the crosstalk between metabolism and specific immune memory for understanding the evolutionary costs. By evaluating these costs, we can gain deeper insights into the adaptive strategies employed by invertebrates in response to pathogenic challenges. Lastly, we outline future research directions aimed at unraveling the crosstalk between metabolism and specific immune memory. These avenues of inquiry promise to illuminate fundamental principles governing host-pathogen interactions and evolutionary trade-offs, thus advancing our understanding of invertebrate immunology.

ABSTRACT: Germination is a process of high metabolic activity in plants that involves the use of storage components present in seeds for seedling development. Chemical induction is a process in which different types of compounds are used to promote the activation of secondary metabolic pathways. The objective of the present study was to determine the effect of chemical induction with salicylic acid (SA) (1 and 5 mM) on chickpea seed germination, germination percentage, radicle length and protein content in seedlings. Soluble protein fractions and trypsin inhibitory activity were quantified in the seedlings, and protein patterns were identified by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Treatment with 5 mM salicylic acid decreased both the germination percentage and the length of the radicle. The albumin fraction content of the seedlings was reduced with 1 mM SA. The trypsin inhibitory activity in the globulin fraction decreased in seedlings treated with both SA treatments. Protein electrophoretic patterns from SA-induced seedlings remained similar to those without induction. In a dose-dependent manner, chickpea seedlings exhibited changes in seedling development, concentration of protein fractions, and reduced trypsin inhibitory activity.

Se presenta una nueva localidad paleontológica del Ordovícico del noroeste de España, ubicada en el flanco meridional del sinclinorio de Vega de Espinareda, al norte de Ponferrada (provincia de León). Se trata de la octava localidad con fósiles esqueléticos encontrada en la Formación Agüeira (Ordovícico Superior) del Dominio del Navia-Alto Sil de la Zona Asturoccidental-leonesa, y la primera ubicada en la mitad inferior de la formación. El nuevo yacimiento se sitúa muy próximo a su sección de referencia de la garganta fluvial entre las localidades de Congosto y Santa Marina del Sil, donde estos niveles eran interpretados como facies distales de un abanico submarino, en una sedimentación predominantemente turbidítica. Pero los trilobites, moluscos y braquiópodos encontrados, que por su escasa a nula desarticulación no parecen transportados, revelan una asociación propia de ambientes de plataforma mucho más someros, con fondos oxigenados como revela la alta concentración de galerías horizontales. La presencia de los trilobites Colpocoryphe grandis (Šnajdr) y Dalmanitina n. sp. (D. rabanoae Pereira, n. n.) indica una edad Berouniense temprano (= Sandbiense temprano), lo que abre la posibilidad de que el límite Ordovícico Medio/Superior se sitúe en los 400-450 m basales de la Fm. Agüeira en el sector estudiado.

Abstract The decline of honey bee populations significantly impacts the human food supply due to poor pollination and yield decreases of essential crop species. Given the reduction of pollinators, research into critical landscape components, such as floral resource availability and land use change, might provide valuable information about the nutritional status and health of honey bee colonies. To address this issue, we examine the effects of landscape factors like agricultural area, urban area, and climatic factors, including maximum temperature, minimum temperature, relative humidity, and precipitation, on honey bee hive populations and nutritional health of 326 honey bee colonies across varying landscapes in Mexico. DNA metabarcoding facilitated the precise identification of pollen from 267 plant species, encompassing 243 genera and 80 families, revealing a primary herb‐based diet. Areas characterized by high landscape diversity exhibited greater pollen diversity within the colony. Conversely, colonies situated in regions with higher proportions of agricultural and urban landscapes demonstrated lower bee density. The maximum ambient temperature outside hives positively correlated with pollen diversity, aligning with a simultaneous decrease in bee density. Conversely, higher relative humidity positively influenced both the bee density of the colony and the diversity of foraged pollen. Our national‐level study investigated pollen dietary availability and colony size in different habitat types, latitudes, climatic conditions, and varied levels and types of disturbances. This effort was taken to gain a better insight into the mechanisms driving declines in honey bee populations. This study illustrates the need for more biodiverse agricultural landscapes, the preservation of diverse habitats, and the conservation of natural and semi‐natural spaces. These measures can help to improve the habitat quality of other bee species, as well as restore essential ecosystem processes, such as pollination and pest control.

Accountability is considered a cornerstone of public administration and good governance. This study characterizes the relationship between the Dutch Intelligence and Secret Service (“AIVD”) and citizens (represented by parliament, courts, and oversight boards) as a complex actor-forum relationship. We utilize different accountability principles of public administration found in international and Dutch instruments and academic literature to propose workable principles of accountability for the AIVD. These proposed principles of accountability can be summarized as acting within duty, explainability, necessity, proportionality, reporting and record keeping, redress, and continuous independent oversight. Similarly, there are some conditions to support the workability of accountability principles. These conditions may be characterized as productive actor-forum relationships, cooperation, flexibility, value alignment, and learning and improving opportunities.

IntroductionPatients with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer have multiple therapeutic options. However, most are not studied in the renal replacement therapy (RRT) setting.Case reportWe report the use of Phesgo® (subcutaneous fixed-dose combination of trastuzumab and pertuzumab) combined with exemestane as a first-line treatment of metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer in a hemodialysis patient with multiple comorbidities. Partial response was attained, with disease progression after 8 months without evidence of significant toxicity.DiscussionsThis case report is, to our knowledge, the first published case documenting the use of Phesgo® in a hemodialysis patient. No new safety signs were seen, and activity was documented, adding support to the use of this drug combination in such a patient population.

This article presents novel methods for synthesizing distributionally robust stabilizing neural controllers and certificates for control systems under model uncertainty. A key challenge in designing controllers with stability guarantees for uncertain systems is the accurate determination of and adaptation to shifts in model parametric uncertainty during online deployment. We tackle this with a novel distributionally robust formulation of the Lyapunov derivative chance constraint ensuring a monotonic decrease of the Lyapunov certificate. To avoid the computational complexity involved in dealing with the space of probability measures, we identify a sufficient condition in the form of deterministic convex constraints that ensures the Lyapunov derivative constraint is satisfied. We integrate this condition into a loss function for training a neural network-based controller and show that, for the resulting closed-loop system, the global asymptotic stability of its equilibrium can be certified with high confidence, even with Out-of-Distribution (OoD) model uncertainties. To demonstrate the efficacy and efficiency of the proposed methodology, we compare it with an uncertainty-agnostic baseline approach and several reinforcement learning approaches in two control problems in simulation. Open-source implementations of the examples are available at https://github.com/KehanLong/DR_Stabilizing_Policy.

Learning is a key function in the brain to be able to achieve the activity patterns required to perform various activities. While specific behaviors are determined by activity in localized regions, the interconnections throughout the entire brain play a key role in enabling its ability to exhibit desired activity. To mimic this setup, this paper examines the use of reservoir computing to control a linear-threshold network brain model to a desired trajectory. We first formally design open- and closed-loop controllers that achieve reference tracking under suitable conditions on the synaptic connectivity. Given the impracticality of evaluating closed-form control signals, particularly with growing network complexity, we provide a framework where a reservoir of a larger size than the network is trained to drive the activity to the desired pattern. We illustrate the versatility of this setup in two applications: selective recruitment and inhibition of neuronal populations for goal-driven selective attention, and network intervention for the prevention of epileptic seizures.

Abstract Background The interaction between modelers and policymakers is becoming more common due to the increase in computing speed seen in recent decades. The recent pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus was no exception. Thus, this study aims to identify and assess epidemiological mathematical models of SARS-CoV-2 applied to real-world data, including immunization for coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). Methodology PubMed, JSTOR, medRxiv, LILACS, EconLit, and other databases were searched for studies employing epidemiological mathematical models of SARS-CoV-2 applied to real-world data. We summarized the information qualitatively, and each article included was assessed for bias risk using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) and PROBAST checklist tool. The PROSPERO registration number is CRD42022344542. Findings In total, 5646 articles were retrieved, of which 411 were included. Most of the information was published in 2021. The countries with the highest number of studies were the United States, Canada, China, and the United Kingdom; no studies were found in low-income countries. The SEIR model (susceptible, exposed, infectious, and recovered) was the most frequently used approach, followed by agent-based modeling. Moreover, the most commonly used software were R, Matlab, and Python, with the most recurring health outcomes being death and recovery. According to the JBI assessment, 61.4% of articles were considered to have a low risk of bias. Interpretation The utilization of mathematical models increased following the onset of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Stakeholders have begun to incorporate these analytical tools more extensively into public policy, enabling the construction of various scenarios for public health. This contribution adds value to informed decision-making. Therefore, understanding their advancements, strengths, and limitations is essential.

The aim of this systematic review was to determine whether autogenous tooth grafting material (ATGM) is as safe and effective as other bone substitutes used for maxillary sinus augmentation procedures, evaluating histomorphometric and/or histological data, implant primary stability, associated complications and radiographic bone height measurements. An automated electronic search was conducted using four databases (Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library), supplemented by a manual search, to identify clinical human studies using particulate ATGM for the aforementioned procedure. The included studies had a sample size of at least four patients and were published before 31st July 2024. The Newcastle–Ottawa scale (NOS) and Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist were used to assess the risk of bias in cohort studies and case series, respectively. Seven studies were included in the descriptive analysis, obtaining 128 participants (46.8% only treated with ATGM) and 192 placed implants. Due to the heterogeneity of the studies, meta-analysis could not be performed. The authors concluded that ATGM appears to be a feasible and safe alternative for maxillary sinus augmentation procedures. These results should be interpreted with caution due to the limited amount of scientific evidence on this topic and the heterogeneity between the included studies.

Background Peripheral artery disease is characterized by an intense inflammatory process that can be associated with a higher mortality rate, particularly in chronic limb‐threatening ischemia (CLTI). This study aims to compare the evolution of inflammatory markers between patients with claudication with those with CLTI at 3, 6, and 12 months. Methods and Results An observational, single‐center, and prospective study was conducted. A total of 119 patients with peripheral artery disease (65 with claudication and 54 with CLTI) were observed and inflammatory markers collected at admission and 3, 6, and 12 months. At admission, patients with CLTI, when compared with patients with claudication, had significantly higher serum levels of C‐reactive protein and fibrinogen (positive acute‐phase proteins) and lower serum level of albumin, total cholesterol, and high‐density lipoprotein (negative acute‐phase proteins): C‐reactive protein (g/dL), 2.90 (25th–75th percentile, 2.90–4.90) versus 6.80 (25th–75th percentile, 2.90–53.26) (P=0.000); fibrinogen (mg/dL), 293.00 (25th–75th percentile, 269.25–349.00) versus 415.50 (25th–75th percentile, 312.00–615.75) (P=0.000); total cholesterol (mg/dL), 161.79±95% [152.74–170.85] versus 146.42%±95% [135.30–157.53] (P=0.034); high‐density lipoprotein (mg/dL), 50.00 (25th–75th percentile, 41.00–60.00) versus 37.00 (25th–75th percentile, 30.00–45.50) (P=0.000); albumin (g/dL): 4.00 (25th–75th percentile, 3.70–4.20) versus 3.60 (25th–75th percentile, 3.10–4.00) (P=0.003). The association between CLTI and total cholesterol was lost after adjusting for confounders. Three months after the resolution of the CLTI, there was an increase in the levels of negative acute‐phase proteins and a decrease in positive acute‐phase proteins. These inflammatory proteins did not register an evolution in patients with claudication. The differences in the inflammatory proteins between groups disappeared at 6 months. Conclusions CLTI has an inflammatory environment that can be partially reverted after resolution of the ischemic process, emphasizing the importance of timely intervention.

Background Blood transfusions have become a vital intervention in trauma care. There are limited data on the safety and effectiveness of submassive transfusion (SMT), that is defined as receiving less than 10 units packed red blood cells (PRBCs) in the first 24 hours. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and platelet transfusions in patients undergoing SMT.Methods This is a retrospective cohort, reviewing the Trauma Quality Improvement Program database spanning 3 years (2016 to 2018). Adult patients aged 18 years and older who had received at least 1 unit of PRBC within 24 hours were included in the study. We used a multivariate regression model to analyze the cut-off units of combined resuscitation (CR) (which included PRBCs along with at least one unit of FFP and/or platelets) that leads to survival improvement. Patients were then stratified into two groups: those who received PRBC alone and those who received CR. Propensity score matching was performed in a 1:1 ratio.Results The study included 85 234 patients. Based on the multivariate regression model, transfusion of more than 3 units of PRBC with at least 1 unit of FFP and/or platelets demonstrated improved mortality compared with PRBC alone. Among 66 319 patients requiring SMT and >3 units of PRBCs, 25 978 received PRBC alone, and 40 341 received CR. After propensity matching, 4215 patients were included in each group. Patients administered CR had a lower rate of complications (15% vs 26%), acute respiratory distress syndrome (3% vs 5%) and acute kidney injury (8% vs 11%). Rates of sepsis and venous thromboembolism were similar between the two groups. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that patients receiving 4 to 7 units of PRBC alone had significantly higher ORs for mortality than those receiving CR.Conclusion Trauma patients requiring more than 3 units of PRBCs who received CR with FFP and platelets experienced improved survival and reduced complications.Level of evidence Level III retrospective study.

No início do ano de 2024, fazemos o balanço do percurso científico da RevSALUS – Revista Científica Internacional da Rede Académica das Ciências da Saúde da Lusofonia, prestamos o nosso agradecimento a todos quantos tiveram um papel fundamental para mais um ano de sucesso da revista, e perspetivamos as metas que pretendemos alcançar. À semelhança do ano anterior, em 2023 a RevSALUS publicou três números regulares, além de dois números suplementares, traduzindo-se num total de 22 artigos e 236 resumos das diversas áreas das ciências da vida e da saúde. Ao longo do ano de 2023, a RevSALUS recebeu através da sua plataforma de gestão editorial um total de 40 artigos, dos quais 14 foram aceites para publicação. Com o crescente reconhecimento científico da RevSALUS no espaço internacional, em particular, da Lusofonia, continuamos o caminho para alcançar a indexação às mais prestigiadas bases das ciências da saúde e da vida. A trajetória até aqui tem sido marcada pelo compromisso inabalável com a excelência científica, e continuaremos a contemplar a promoção do conhecimento numa base de integridade científica.

Introducción: en el vigente artículo se analizan la depresión, variables sociodemográficas y su asociación entre ellas en adultos mayores en el Perú. Materiales y métodos: se usó un estudio transversal, descriptivo y correlacional a una muestra de 5247 adultos mayores. Se empleó los datos generados por la “Encuesta Demográfica y de Salud” (ENDES) del año 2019 , utilizando el instrumento de investigación: Patient Healtth Questionnarie (PHQ) de nueve preguntas y las variables sociodemográficas, incluidos en los cuestionarios de salud, características del hogar y la vivienda, de la ENDES 2019. Para el estudio estadístico se usó el modelo de regresión logística múltiple, para establecer si existía asociación entre depresión y variables sociodemográficas. Resultados: Los resultados señalan que el 36.7 por ciento de las personas de 60 años a más presenta un nivel de depresión de leve a grave. Asimismo, se encontró que la depresión y las variables sociodemográficas (consumo problemático de alcohol, nivel de instrucción, discapacidad, diabetes, índice de riqueza, sexo y grupo etario) están relacionadas; sin embargo, no están relacionadas con las variables hábito de fumar, presión arterial, obesidad, tener pareja y lugar de residencia. Conclusiones: la depresión está relacionado con algunas variables sociodemográficas consideradas en este estudio.

Pollution and its effects have been of major concern in recent decades. Many strategies and markers have been developed to assess their effects on biota. Cytochrome P450 (CYP) genes have received significant attention in this context because of their relationship with detoxification and activation of exogenous compounds. While their expression has been identified as a pollution exposure biomarker, in most cases, it has been tested only after acute exposures and for CYP genes associated with exogenous compounds. To elucidate CYP gene expression patterns under chronic pollution exposure, we have used the silverside Basilichthys microlepidotus as a model, which inhabits the Maipo River Basin, a freshwater system with different pollution levels. We performed next-generation RNA sequencing of liver and gill tissues from polluted and non-polluted populations. We found most CYP genes were not dysregulated by pollution, and the seven genes that were present and differentially expressed in liver and gill were mainly downregulated. Three CYP genes associated with exogenous compounds showed differential expression in the gill, while four CYP genes associated with endogenous compounds showed differential expression in the liver. The findings presented here highlight the importance of CYP genes, his family, tissues and his interaction in the context of pollution biomarkers use.

For conservation and sustainable fisheries, it is important to characterize the Oxygen Minimum Zones or OMZ in and around the methane seeps of the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP), Costa Rica, through the analysis of temperature, salinity, density, and oxygen profiles. The data used in this work were collected during several oceanographic research campaigns in the Pacific continental margin and offshore of Costa Rica, between 2009 and 2019, using a CTDs, as the profiler of physical parameters of the water column. In general, it was observed that dissolved oxygen gradually decreases with depth to the thermocline, then its concentration decreases more rapidly and remains low, indicating the presence of the OMZ and tends to increase slightly at greater depths. Mean vertical extension of the OMZ near and around the seeps was 763 m and the mean depth for the minimum dissolved oxygen value was 393 m. Spatial differences of measurements taken at stations near the methane seeps were calculated with respect to the measurements at the station located above them. Overall, a greater variability of the oxygen anomalies was observed within the mixed layer, while under the thermocline their values remain stable and around zero.

Membrane distillation (MD) technology is increasingly gaining attention as an environmentally sustainable water treatment method of emerging interest. During last three decades there has been wide efforts to model and improve the performance of this technology. In this study we examine both the mathematical and computational modeling methods used in MD with a data-driven method. To gather the dataset, a broad range of terms related with theoretical modeling of MD were searched in the Scopus database. The collection consists of 526 documents including 116 journals, 14,291 references used by authors, 1252 involved authors and 29.47 % international co-authorship rate. The overall pattern of publications is found to increase over time indicating the enhancing interest on theoretical modeling of MD process. Journal of Membrane Science and Desalination are the top two journals publishing theoretical modeling of MD, with 105 and 100 articles, respectively. Dr. Ghaffour N. contributed with the highest number of articles, 24; and Dr. Khayet M. has the highest articles fractionalized value with 7.08. The dataset was categorized first into mathematical and computational modeling, then into the used mass transport approaches through membrane hydrophobic pores. Recently, in MD field computational modeling has been considered more than mathematical modeling. The combined Knudsen diffusion/ordinary molecular diffusion model is the dominant mass transport approach considered in MD mathematical modeling with 117 articles. On the other hand, computational fluid dynamics is the most used computational method with 114 articles.

Abstract Background Asymptomatic infection is the most common outcome of exposure to Leishmania parasites. In the Mediterranean region, where Leishmania infantum is endemic, studies on the prevalence of asymptomatic infection have often relied on serological testing in blood donors. In Spain, regional studies have shown seroprevalence in blood donors between 1 and 8%; in Portugal, values of 0 and 2% were suggested by two localized studies, in different populations. The purpose of this study was (i) to estimate the prevalence of asymptomatic Leishmania infection in blood donors in mainland Portugal, and (ii) to study the association between the detection of antibodies to Leishmania and sociodemographic factors, and also the knowledge, perceptions and practices (KPP) of the blood donors regarding leishmaniasis. Methods A cross-sectional study targeted the population of people who donated blood in mainland Portugal. Participants, distributed proportionally by municipality and aged between 18 and 65 years, were selected randomly in 347 blood collection points between February and June 2022, and completed a sociodemographic and a KPP questionnaire. Detection of anti-Leishmania antibodies in serum was performed using an ELISA commercial kit. Individual KPP scores were calculated by adding grades defined for each question. Results Globally, 201/3763 samples were positive. The estimated national true seroprevalence was 4.8% (95% CI 4.1–5.5%). The proportion of positive results was significantly different between NUTS (Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics) regions. Models suggested that seropositivity was significantly higher in male sex, people older than 25 years, or residing in the Centro NUTS2 region, but not in dog owners nor people with lower KPP scores. Overall, 72.3% of participants had previously heard of leishmaniasis and, in multivariate analysis, a higher Knowledge score was associated with age 25–40 years, female sex, ownership of dogs, and higher education. Conclusions Global estimated true seroprevalence (4.8%) was similar to previous regional studies in blood donors in neighboring Spain. Higher seroprevalence values in the NUTS2 Centro region were consistent with incidence data from humans and seroprevalence studies in dogs. On the other hand, the low values in the Alentejo and the high values in the northern subregions may be the result of geographical shifts in parasite circulation due to climate change and should prompt localized and integrated, vector, canine, and human research, following a One Health approach. Graphical Abstract

Clubroot is a soilborne disease of canola (Brassica napus) and other crucifers caused by the obligate parasite Plasmodiophora brassicae. In western Canada, clubroot is usually managed by planting-resistant cultivars, but the emergence of resistance-breaking pathotypes of P. brassicae represents a major threat to sustainable canola production. The rhizosphere and root contain beneficial microorganisms that can improve plant health. In this study, we evaluated the effect of two P. brassicae isolates (termed A and B) with different levels of virulence on the root and rhizosphere microbiomes of clubroot-resistant and clubroot-susceptible canola. Additionally, potential biocontrol microorganisms were identified based on taxa antagonistic to clubroot. Although both P. brassicae isolates were classified as pathotype 3A, isolate A caused a higher disease severity index in the resistant canola genotype compared with isolate B. Metabarcoding analysis indicated a shift in the bacterial and fungal communities in response to inoculation with either field isolate. Root endophytic bacterial and fungal communities responded to changes in inoculation, isolate type, sampling time, and canola genotype. In contrast, fungal communities associated with the rhizosphere exhibited significant differences between sampling times, while bacterial communities associated with the rhizosphere exhibited low variability.

The diversity and scarcity of resources across devices in heterogeneous computing environments can impact their ability to meet users’ quality-of-service (QoS) requirements, especially in open real-time environments where computational loads are unpredictable. Despite this uncertainty, timely responses to events remain essential to ensure desired performance levels. To address this challenge, this paper introduces collaborative service execution, enabling resource-constrained IoT devices to collaboratively execute services with more powerful neighbors at the edge, thus meeting non-functional requirements that might be unattainable through individual execution. Nodes dynamically form clusters, allocating resources to each service and establishing initial configurations that maximize QoS satisfaction while minimizing global QoS impact. However, the complexity of open real-time environments may hinder the computation of optimal local and global resource allocations within reasonable timeframes. Thus, we reformulate the QoS optimization problem as a heuristic-based anytime optimization problem, capable of interrupting and quickly adapting to environmental changes. Extensive simulations demonstrate that our anytime algorithms rapidly yield satisfactory initial service solutions and effectively optimize the solution quality over iterations, with negligible overhead compared to the benefits gained.

Paralytic shellfish poisoning is an important concern for mollusk fisheries, aquaculture, and public health. In Galicia, NW Iberian Peninsula, such toxicity has been monitored for a long time using mouse bioassay. Therefore, little information exists about the precise toxin analogues and their possible transformations in diverse mollusk species and environments. After the change in the European PSP reference method, a refinement of the Lawrence method was developed, achieving a 75% reduction in chromatogram run time. Since the beginning of 2021, when this refinement Lawrence method was accredited under the norm UNE-EN ISO/IEC 17025, it has been used in the area to determine the toxin profiles and to estimate PSP toxicity in more than 4500 samples. In this study, we have summarized three years of monitoring results, including interspecific, seasonal, and geographical variability of PSP toxicity and toxin profile. PSP was detected in more than half of the samples analyzed (55%), but only 4.4% of the determinations were above the EU regulatory limit. GTX1,4 was the pair of STX analogs that produced the highest toxicities, but GTX2,3 was found in most samples, mainly due to the reduction of GTX1,4 but also by the higher sensitivity of the method for this pair of analogs. STX seems to be mainly a product of biotransformation from GTX2,3. The studied species (twelve bivalves and one gastropod) accumulated and transformed PSP toxins to a different extent, with most of them showing similar profiles except for Spisula solida and Haliotis tuberculata. Two seasonal peaks of toxicity were found: one in spring-early summer and another in autumn, with slightly different toxin profiles during outbreaks in relation to the toxicity during valleys. In general, both the total toxicity and toxin profiles of the southernmost locations were different from those in the northern part of the Atlantic coast and the Cantabrian Sea, but this general pattern is modified by the PSP history of some specific locations.

Lung branching morphogenesis relies on intricate epithelial–mesenchymal interactions and signaling networks. Still, the interplay between signaling and energy metabolism in shaping embryonic lung development remains unexplored. Retinoic acid (RA) signaling influences lung proximal–distal patterning and branching morphogenesis, but its role as a metabolic modulator is unknown. Hence, this study investigates how RA signaling affects the metabolic profile of lung branching. We performed ex vivo lung explant culture of embryonic chicken lungs treated with DMSO, 1 µM RA, or 10 µM BMS493. Extracellular metabolite consumption/production was evaluated by using 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Mitochondrial respiration and biogenesis were also analyzed. Proliferation was assessed using an EdU-based assay. The expression of crucial metabolic/signaling components was examined through Western blot, qPCR, and in situ hybridization. RA signaling stimulation redirects glucose towards pyruvate and succinate production rather than to alanine or lactate. Inhibition of RA signaling reduces lung branching, resulting in a cystic-like phenotype while promoting mitochondrial function. Here, RA signaling emerges as a regulator of tissue proliferation and lactate dehydrogenase expression. Furthermore, RA governs fatty acid metabolism through an AMPK-dependent mechanism. These findings underscore RA’s pivotal role in shaping lung metabolism during branching morphogenesis, contributing to our understanding of lung development and cystic-related lung disorders.

Este artículo busca analizar la Cooperación Española en África subsahariana y sus distintos ámbitos de actuación. Las relaciones entre España y África se enmarcan en el III Plan África publicado en 2019, que persigue un acercamiento de España al continente africano, buscando intereses comunes e interactuando con los distintos actores españoles presentes en el mismo. Más concretamente, pretende centrarse en las relaciones entre España y Guinea Ecuatorial desde la independencia de la segunda en 1968 y cómo esas relaciones se han desarrollado a través de la Cooperación Española. A partir de 2007 se redujo drásticamente la ayuda española a Guinea Ecuatorial, dejando de ser su principal donante desde 2010. En este trabajo vamos a partir de dos hipótesis. La primera consiste en que desde la independencia colonial las relaciones diplomáticas entre Guinea Ecuatorial y España están principalmente enmarcadas en el ámbito de la cooperación. La segunda, que depende de la primera, busca saber si Guinea Ecuatorial es un socio preferente de la Cooperación Española y si España es su principal donante de ayuda oficial al desarrollo. En ese sentido, uno de los principales objetivos de esta investigación consiste en evaluar tanto el impacto real de la Cooperación Española en Guinea Ecuatorial como el número de proyectos, las cantidades de dinero y las distintas formas en que esa relación se ha desarrollado.

Aliena parva gen. et sp. nov. is described from Cocos Island, Costa Rica. The species was found at various islets and rocky outcrops north and northwest of the island, 20–30 m in depth. The genus is characterised by polyps, retracting into calyces, that form thin encrusting mats extending on dead or live substrates. Sclerites are mostly asymmetrical spindles. Anthocodial rods are arranged in points, not forming a collaret. Colonies and coenenchymal sclerites are red, and polyps are transparent. Using an integrative taxonomic approach, we found the new genus to morphologically and genetically differ from all other described taxa. The molecular phylogenetic analyses provide strong support for the placement of this new genus in the family Pterogorgiidae. Morphologically it is unlike any of the other members of this family, necessitating an amendment to the diagnosis of Pterogorgiidae. Like several other known taxa of octocorals with encrusting growth forms, Aliena gen. nov. appears to have evolved from a gorgonian ancestor by loss of an internal skeletal axis. It is the first member of Pterogorgiidae to be reported from the eastern Pacific, contributing further to the knowledge of marine biodiversity in the eastern tropical Pacific and to the octocoral biodiversity of Cocos Island in particular.

Abstract Background Establishing the level of surgical difficulty pre-operatively is an essential step in ensuring correct treatment planning. This study set out to determine whether the knowledge and experience acquired by dentists who had received different levels of training influenced, firstly, the perceived levels of difficulty of a variety of cases of mandibular third molar (MTM) extraction and, secondly, the perceived difficulty deriving from a series of factors (patient-related factors, anatomical and radiographic factors, operative factors). Methods This cross-sectional, descriptive, observational study took the form of a survey. Using a visual analog scale (VAS), participants evaluated both the perceived difficulty of 30 cases of MTM extraction described by means of digital panoramic radiographs and the perceived difficulty deriving from a series of factors conditioning MTM extraction. The results underwent statistical analysis with SPSS Statistics 28.0 software. Non-parametric tests (Mann Whitney test for independent samples and the Kruskal–Wallis test) were applied. Results A total of 389 surveys were available for analysis. Dental practioners with no surgical training saw the intervention as presenting greater difficulty. Professionals with postgraduate training in oral surgery considered patient-related factors more important than operative factors, in contrast to dentists who had not received oral surgery training. Conclusions Dental training has a signficant influence on the perceived difficulty of MTM extraction and also affects opinions about which factors have greater or lesser influence on surgical difficulty.

Abstract Background Pevonedistat is a first-in-class, small molecular inhibitor of NEDD8-activating enzyme that has clinical activity in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). Preclinical data suggest synergy of pevonedistat with azacitidine and venetoclax. Methods This single-center, phase 1/2 study evaluated the combination of azacitidine, venetoclax and pevonedistat in older adults with newly diagnosed secondary AML or with MDS or chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML) after failure of hypomethylating agents. Patients received azacitidine 75 mg/m2 IV on days 1–7, venetoclax at maximum dose of 200-400 mg orally on days 1–21 (AML cohort) or days 1–14 (MDS/CMML cohort) and pevonedistat 20 mg/m2 IV on days 1, 3 and 5 for up to 24 cycles. The primary endpoints for the phase 2 portion of the study were the CR/CRi rate in the AML cohort and the overall response rate (CR + mCR + PR + HI) in the MDS/CMML cohort. Findings Forty patients were enrolled (32 with AML and 8 with MDS/CMML). In the AML cohort, the median age was 74 years (range 61–86 years), and 27 patients (84%) had at least one adverse risk cyto-molecular feature, including 15 (47%) with a TP53 mutation or MECOM rearrangement; seventeen patients (53%) had received prior therapy for a preceding myeloid disorder. The CR/CRi rate was 66% (CR 50%; CRi 16%), and the median overall survival (OS) was 8.1 months. In the MDS/CMML cohort, 7 patients (87%) were high or very high risk by the IPSS-R. The overall response rate was 75% (CR 13%; mCR with or without HI 50%; HI 13%). The most common grade 3–4 adverse events were infection in 16 patients (35%), febrile neutropenia in 10 patients (25%) and hypophosphatemia in 9 patients (23%). In an exploratory analysis, early upregulation of NOXA expression was observed, with subsequent decrease in MCL-1 and FLIP, findings consistent with preclinical mechanistic studies of pevonedistat. Upregulation of CD36 was observed, which may have contributed to therapeutic resistance. Conclusions The triplet combination of azacitidine, venetoclax and pevonedistat shows encouraging activity in this very poor-risk population of patients with AML, MDS or CMML. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03862157).

Abstract The assembly of the embryo’s primary axis is a fundamental landmark for the establishment of the vertebrate body plan. Although the morphogenetic movements directing cell convergence towards the midline have been described extensively, little is known on how gastrulating cells interpret mechanical cues. Yap proteins are well-known transcriptional mechanotransducers, yet their role in gastrulation remains elusive. Here we show that the double knockout of yap and its paralog yap1b in medaka results in an axis assembly failure, due to reduced displacement and migratory persistence in mutant cells. Accordingly, we identified genes involved in cytoskeletal organization and cell-ECM adhesion as potentially direct Yap targets. Dynamic analysis of live sensors and downstream targets reveal that Yap is acting in migratory cells, promoting cortical actin and focal adhesions recruitment. Our results indicate that Yap coordinates a mechanoregulatory program to sustain intracellular tension and maintain the directed cell migration for embryo axis development.

Thunderstorms are known to have the potential to cause damage to the population. In Mexico, these weather events can bring threats such as lightning, hail, damaging winds, and even tornadoes. Various parameters and indices have been developed for mid-latitude regions to improve forecasting and reduce the potential damage from thunderstorms; however, they do not consider the specific conditions of tropical and subtropical environments. This research used a comprehensive set of thunderstorm reports and the proximity-sounding approach using ERA5 reanalysis data to examine five important instability indices commonly used for thunderstorm forecasting regarding their spatial and temporal characteristics. The results reveal significant variations in the values of the instability indices during thunderstorm events associated with different atmospheric systems in both the high-activity and low-activity seasons. The above suggests that no single index can reliably predict thunderstorms throughout Mexico and during all seasons. Analyses provide forecasters with a more comprehensive understanding of the various atmospheric conditions under which thunderstorms develop in the country, which can lead to more accurate forecasting and better disaster risk management for these natural phenomena.

Mate choice is a critical decision with direct implications for fitness. Although it has been recognized for over 150 years, our understanding of its underlying mechanisms is still limited. Most studies on mate choice focus on the evolutionary causes of behavior, with less attention given to the physiological and molecular mechanisms involved. This is especially true for invertebrates, where research on mate choice has largely focused on male behavior. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on the neural, molecular and neurohormonal mechanisms of female choice in invertebrates, including behaviors before, during, and after copulation. We identify areas of research that have not been extensively explored in invertebrates, suggesting potential directions for future investigation. We hope that this review will stimulate further research in this area.