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Visualization is essential for interpreting data, especially in scientific research where datasets often come from experiments or simulations. Data visualization techniques vary based on the data type. For example, mapping can illustrate city traffic incidents, while bar plots can identify the most common incidents. This paper presents VisUAM (Visualizador UAM), a web-based tool for creating graphics from various datasets across any domain. The current version of VisUAM supports data from three scientific software tools: Pore Networks, Voronoi Diagrams, and Particle Diffusive Simulator. VisUAM’s architecture allows easy integration of any data type and supports multi-dimensional visualizations, including 2D, 3D, and animations. Its flexibility, web-based accessibility, and adaptability to new visualization needs make VisUAM a versatile and comprehensive platform for researchers.

Mathematics teaching strategies have a positive impact on learning. However, there is a lack of studies on non-traditional approaches to early mathematics education in the specialized scientific literature. In this theoretical framework, a study to connect teaching methodology with the various cognitive processes implicated in learning has been designed. A total of 114 primary school students aged 74 and 84 months who were taught mathematics either with the method called Open Algorithm Based on Numbers or with the more traditional Closed Algorithm Based on Ciphers, participated in the study. After conducting a thorough examination of cognitive processes and early math performance using well-established assessment instruments, a comparative analysis was undertaken to explore the relationship between cognitive predictors of mathematical performance, while considering the mathematics teaching strategies used. Students were distributed according to their level of mathematical competence and teaching methodology and the type of schools (Charter or Public). The results from the multivariate statistical test showed that the teaching strategy was inconclusive for most of the cognitive factors studied. Significant differences according to mathematical performance were found for fluid intelligence, verbal short-term memory, and visuospatial working memory. Finally, no significant differences were found in the cognitive variables studied when considering the interaction between the teaching approach, school characteristics, and mathematical achievement as a reference.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most prevalent secondary complications associated with diabetes. Specifically, Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1D) has an immune component that may determine the evolution of DR by compromising the immune response of the retina, which is mediated by microglia. In the early stages of DR, the permeabilization of the blood–retinal barrier allows immune cells from the peripheral system to interact with the retinal immune system. The use of new bioactive molecules, such as 3-(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)phthalide (M9), with powerful anti-inflammatory activity, might represent an advance in the treatment of diseases like DR by targeting the immune systems responsible for its onset and progression. Our research aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved in the interaction of specific cells of the innate immune system during the progression of DR and the reduction in inflammatory processes contributing to the pathology. In vitro studies were conducted exposing Bv.2 microglial and Raw264.7 macrophage cells to proinflammatory stimuli for 24 h, in the presence or absence of M9. Ex vivo and in vivo approaches were performed in BB rats, an animal model for T1D. Retinal explants from BB rats were cultured with M9. Retinas from BB rats treated for 15 days with M9 via intraperitoneal injection were analyzed to determine survival, cellular signaling, and inflammatory markers using qPCR, Western blot, or immunofluorescence approaches. Retinal structure images were acquired via Spectral-Domain–Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT). Our results show that the treatment with M9 significantly reduces inflammatory processes in in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models of DR. M9 works by inhibiting the proinflammatory responses during DR progression mainly affecting immune cell responses. It also induces an anti-inflammatory response, primarily mediated by microglial cells, leading to the synthesis of Arginase-1 and Hemeoxygenase-1(HO-1). Ultimately, in vivo administration of M9 preserves the retinal integrity from the degeneration associated with DR progression. Our findings demonstrate a specific interaction between both retinal and systemic immune cells in the progression of DR, with a differential response to treatment, mainly driven by microglia in the anti-inflammatory action. In vivo treatment with M9 induces a switch in immune cell phenotypes and functions that contributes to delaying the DR progression, positioning microglial cells as a new and specific therapeutic target in DR.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a highly prevalent disease worldwide, estimated to affect 1 in every 11 adults; among them, 90–95% of cases are type 2 diabetes mellitus. This is partly attributed to the surge in the prevalence of obesity, which has reached epidemic proportions since 2008. In these patients, cardiovascular (CV) risk stands as the primary cause of morbidity and mortality, placing a substantial burden on healthcare systems due to the potential for macrovascular and microvascular complications. In this context, leptin, an adipocyte-derived hormone, plays a fundamental role. This hormone is essential for regulating the cellular metabolism and energy balance, controlling inflammatory responses, and maintaining CV system homeostasis. Thus, leptin resistance not only contributes to weight gain but may also lead to increased cardiac inflammation, greater fibrosis, hypertension, and impairment of the cardiac metabolism. Understanding the relationship between leptin resistance and CV risk in obese individuals with type 2 DM (T2DM) could improve the management and prevention of this complication. Therefore, in this narrative review, we will discuss the evidence linking leptin with the presence, severity, and/or prognosis of obesity and T2DM regarding CV disease, aiming to shed light on the potential implications for better management and preventive strategies.

Las membranas de Carbón de Malla Molecular (MCMM) presentan excelentes propiedades químicas y térmicas, superan fácilmente la típica compensación entre permeabilidad y selectividad en procesos de separación de gases. Sin embargo, el rendimiento y los mecanismos de transporte involucrados en la separación no están muy claros. Los principales polímeros precursores para la síntesis de MCMM están limitados a resinas fenólicas, poliimidas y estructuras altamente aromáticas. Lo anterior, abre la oportunidad para explorar nuevos materiales poliméricos como precursores. Por ejemplo, las diferentes variantes de los poli(oxindoliliden arileno)s, POXINARs. Esta investigación se enfoca en evaluar el rendimiento de separación de las MCMM modificadas estructuralmente con grupos para-fluorofenilo. Se sintetizaron MCMM a partir de los precursores poli(2-oxo-3-bifenilen)indol [POBI-H], y poli(2-oxo-3-bifenilen-1-(4-fluoro)fenilindol [POBI-FPh]. La caracterización se realizó mediante microscopia de infrarrojo y análisis termogravimétrico y, finalmente, se evaluaron las propiedades de transporte de gases puros a temperaturas de 30, 40 y 45 °C y una diferencia de presión de 2 atm.

Abstract Background The risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) varies in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), depending on the degree of insulin resistance and is also influenced by obesity. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical features, blood pressure (BP) profiles and inflammatory markers, to identify patients with an elevated risk of developing HDP. Methods A total of 146 normotensive pregnant women were studied. We analysed the relationships of BP profiles detected by ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) with serum biomarkers and angiogenic factors and their association with the development of HDP. Results Fourteen (9.6%) women developed HDP, of which 11 had GDM and 8 had obesity. Women with HDP had higher values of 24-h and daytime systolic/diastolic BP (113/69 vs. 104/64; 115/72 vs. 106/66 mmHg, respectively; p

Introduction: In the last decade, healthcare for the transgender population has increased considerably in many countries thanks to depathologization movements and the easier accessibility of medical assistance. The age at which they request to start gender-affirming hormones (GAHs) is increasingly younger. The cardiovascular risk associated with hormonal treatment is a novel research field, and the published studies are heterogeneous and inconclusive. Our objective is to determine the metabolic impact of GAHs in the transgender people treated in our Gender Identity Treatment Unit. Methods: We designed a pre–post study to analyze changes in anthropometric parameters (weight and body mass index), analytical determinations (fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, and lipoproteins), and blood pressure control in the transgender population treated with GAHs in Puerta del Mar University Hospital. These variables were collected before and one year after hormonal therapy. Results: A total of 227 transgender people were recruited between 2017 and 2020, 97 (40.09%) transwomen and 136 (59.91%) transmen. The average age at which GAHs began was 18 years. Weight, body mass index, and blood pressure increased significantly in both genders. Transmen showed a more atherogenic lipid profile, with a decrease in cholesterol LDL (p < 0.001) and an increase in triglycerides (p < 0.001). The risk of developing prediabetes or diabetes did not increase one year after treatment, although non-specific alterations in carbohydrate metabolism were detected, such as an increase in glycated hemoglobin in transmen (p = 0.040) and fasting blood glucose in transwomen (p = 0.008). No thromboembolic processes or cardiovascular events were reported during the first year of treatment. Conclusion: In our setting, transgender people developed changes in their metabolic profiles in the first year after hormonal treatment. Both transmen and transwomen showed early alterations in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, slight elevations in blood pressure, and a tendency to gain weight. This makes lifestyle interventions necessary from the beginning of GAHs.

Background: The literature provides limited evidence of cord blood leptin levels in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), with contradictory and inconsistent results with respect to their possible implications for maternal, perinatal, and future complications. Methods: MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched in order to investigate the state of evidence on the association of leptin profile in cord blood during perinatal complications in GDM. We critically assessed the risk of bias using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Meta-analyses were performed, and heterogeneity and publication bias were analyzed. Results: sixteen primary-level studies were included, recruiting 573 GDM and 1118 control pregnant women. Cord blood leptin levels were significantly higher in GDM participants compared to controls (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.59, 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 0.37 to 0.80, p < 0.001). All subgroups also maintained significant differences stratified by continents (Asia: SMD = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.45 to 1.37, p < 0.001; Europe: SMD = 0.38, 95% CI = 0.20 to 0.56, p < 0.001), analysis technique (ELISA: SMD = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.44 to 0.97, p < 0.001; RIA: SMD = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.11 to 0.49, p = 0.002), and sample source (plasma: SMD = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.33 to 1.09, p < 0.001; serum: SMD = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.34 to 0.77, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Cord blood leptin levels were significantly higher in GDM compared to controls. Further research is needed to clarify its role as a predictive biomarker of subsequent metabolic diseases in mothers with GDM and offspring.

En la actualidad, uno de los mayores retos educativos sigue siendo superar las dificultades que genera el aprendizaje matemático en el alumnado de Educación Primaria y Educación Secundaria. Recientemente, se ha incrementado la investigación sobre el aprendizaje y la cognición matemática debido a las consecuencias personales y sociales del fracaso enel aprendizaje. Una de las líneas de trabajo enfatiza la conveniencia de realizar intervenciones que incorporen los procesos cognitivos implicados en el aprendizaje de las matemáticas, y hagan uso de estrategias innovadoras como el método de cálculo Abierto Basado en Números (ABN). El presente estudio pretende analizar el impacto del programa formativo online para la implantación del método ABN en cursos altos de Educación Primaria y primer ciclo de Educación Secundaria Obligatoria. El proyecto se distribuye en cuatro fases: (1) Selección de escuelas; (2) Programa formativo online para docentes; (3) Estudio empírico para analizar la efectividad del método ABN; y (4) Transferencia de resultados y diseño de materiales y APP educativas matemáticas. Se presentan los resultados obtenidos en la primera etapa, con el objetivo de analizar el impacto del programa formativo y la incorporación de materiales manipulativos para diversos contenidos matemáticos. Los participantes del programa formativo pertenecen a centros educativos de la provincia de Cádiz y fueron seleccionados incidentalmente. La muestra está compuesta por 40 participantes (19 investigadores, 3 docentes expertos en ABN, 18 docentes y 3 estudiantes de máster en Educación Secundaria). Se presentan los resultados extraídos tras la formación del profesorado y las prácticas de aula llevadas a cabo, los cuales muestran la necesidad de formación del profesorado para la incorporación de dinámicas alternativas en los cursos altos de Educación Primaria. Se espera abrir nuevas líneas de investigación basadas en la implementación de programas y talleres para la aplicación de estrategias innovadoras en los centros educativos.

Hybrid membranes with three different thicknesses, PMDS_C1, PMDS_C2, and PMDS_C3 (0.21 ± 0.03 mm, 0.31 ± 0.05 mm, and 0.48 ± 0.07 mm), were synthesized by the sol–gel method using polydimethylsiloxane, hydroxy-terminated, and cyanopropyltriethoxysilane. The presence of cyano, methyl, and silicon-methyl groups was confirmed by FTIR analysis. Contact angle analysis revealed the membranes’ hydrophilic nature. Solvent resistance tests conducted under vortex and ultrasonic treatments (45 and 60 min) demonstrated a preference order of acetonitrile > methanol > water. Furthermore, the membranes exhibited stability over 48 h when exposed to different pH conditions (1, 3, 6, and 9), with negligible mass losses below 1%. The thermogravimetric analysis showed that the material was stable until 400 °C. Finally, the sorption analysis showed its capacity to detect furfural, 2-furylmethylketone, 5-methylfurfural, and 2-methyl 2-furoate. The thicker membrane was able to adsorb and slightly desorb a higher concentration of furanic compounds due to its high polarity provided by the addition of the cyano groups. The results indicated that the membranes may be suitable for sorbent materials in extracting and enriching organic compounds.

n present, the university education promoted by the Regional Autonomous University of Los Andes, Ecuador, is supported by a Virtual Learning Environment. This is the fundamental reason that originated this research, for knowing if the use of the Virtual Learning Environment has either a positive or negative effect on the teaching-learning process in this university, especially in the Puyo campus. To carry out this work we consider the academic cycle April-August 2018. A survey was conducted in a unique environment and was applied to teachers and students, such that their opinion on the use of this tool is investigated. The processing of data of the survey was based on the neutrophic Iadov technique. Iadov technique consists of a set of three closed questions, and in addition an undetermined number of open questions that are processed by a logical tree that combines every triple of possible answers with a number that serves to logically evaluate such a combination. Neutrosophic Iadov generalizes the Iadov technique in order to take into account the indeterminacy that is typical of any evaluation. Therefore, this method is more accurate than its precedent.

Currently, a company’s success not only depends on having the capital, tools, knowledge, and services to offer to a specific audience. It depends mainly on the emotional intelligence of its organizational leaders to achieve harmony in leader-team interpersonal relationships and fulfill its goals and objectives. Therefore, it is pertinent to contribute to this field of research by exploring the environment where these types of human relationships occur. Managerial leaders who apply emotional intelligence strategies make a company’ excellent management visible and viable; these leaders are responsible for influencing others, molding groups as needed. The daily interaction between leader and employees is dynamic, and one way or another arises from following certain types of leadership found within the structure. Nevertheless, we are living in challenging times due to a global pandemic, where new emotions and skills must be managed, particularly by the leader. Any event of this magnitude has its consequences, especially if we talk about a virus that has caused a health crisis and continues to cause the death of thousands of people. These repercussions encompass several areas, such as the economy, health, education, and society. Albert Einstein used to say that the tone of the century is set in its first twenty-five years, so it is essential to build the foundations of a new society marked by new social leadership.

Obesity increases the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes through increased inflammation at cellular and tissue levels. Therefore, study of the molecular elements involved in obesity-related inflammation may contribute to preventing and controlling it. Inorganic polyphosphate is a natural phosphate polymer that has recently been attracting more attention for its role in inflammation and hemostasis processes. Polyphosphates are one of the main constituents of human platelets, which are secreted after platelet activation. Among other roles, they interact with multiple proteins of the coagulation cascade, trigger bradykinin release, and inhibit the complement system. Despite its importance, determinations of polyphosphate levels in blood plasma had been elusive until recently, when we developed a method to detect these levels precisely. Here, we perform cross sectional studies to evaluate plasma polyphosphate in: 25 children, most of them with obesity and overweight, and 20 adults, half of them with severe type 2 diabetes. Our results show that polyphosphate increases, in a significant manner, in children with insulin resistance and in type 2 diabetes patients. As we demonstrated before that polyphosphate decreases in healthy overweight individuals, these results suggest that this polymer could be an inflammation biomarker in the metabolic disease onset before diabetes.

Oral cancer is a growing problem, accounting for 377,713 worldwide new cases per year, and 177,757 deaths annually and representing a 5-year mortality rate close to 50%, which is a considerable mortality that has not decreased substantially in the last 40 years. The main cause of this high mortality is related to the diagnosis of a high percentage of oral cancers in advanced stages (stages III and IV) in which treatment is complex, mutilating or disabling, and ineffective. The essential cause of a cancer diagnosis at a late stage is the delay in diagnosis, therefore, the achievement of the objective of improving the prognosis of oral cancer involves reducing the delay in its diagnosis. The reasons for the delay in the diagnosis of oral cancer are complex and involve several actors and circumstances—patients, health care providers, and health services. In this paper, we present the results of a scoping review of systematic reviews on the diagnostic delay in oral cancer with the aim to better understand, based on the evidence, and discuss in depth, the reasons for this fact, and to identify evidence gaps and formulate strategies for improvement.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a world health problem of global repercussion [...]

This work details the theory and implementation of a multi-wavelength quantum key distribution (QKD) emulation system with a physical unclonable function (PUF). Multi-wavelength QKD can eliminate the need to share a subsection of the final key for eavesdropper detection and allow for ternary and quaternary data transmission. The inclusion of the PUF adds an additional layer of security. We provide preliminary error analysis of our emulation system. To support this work, we introduce a bitwise transform operator that enables binary output of the PUF to satisfy the ternary and quaternary input requirements of the QKD system.

Inflammatory processes play a central role in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy (DN) in the early stages of the disease. The authors demonstrate that the glycolipid mimetic (Ss)-DS-ONJ is able to abolish inflammation via the induction of autophagy flux and provokes the inhibition of inflammasome complex in ex vivo and in vitro models, using adult kidney explants from BB rats. The contribution of (Ss)-DS-ONJ to reducing inflammatory events is mediated by the inhibition of classical stress kinase pathways and the blocking of inflammasome complex activation. The (Ss)-DS-ONJ treatment is able to inhibit the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) progression, but only when the IL18 levels are reduced by the treatment. These findings suggest that (Ss)-DS-ONJ could be a novel, and multifactorial treatment for DN.

In this paper, we report the synthesis of block and random copolymers of 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propane sulfonic acid (AMPS) and methyl methacrylate (MMA), with different AMPS feed ratios. These solution-processable copolymers with strongly sulfonated acid groups resulted in membranes with tunable ion exchange (IEC) and water absorption capacities. AFM images confirmed the microphase separation of PAMPS-b-PMMA-1:1 block copolymer membrane, annealed under the appropriate conditions. The resulting copolymers from the random combination of a 1:1 molar ratio of AMPS and MMA monomers are effective at enhancing the esterification conversion of acetic acid, when compared with a reaction catalyzed by PAMPS-b-PMMA block copolymers and the previously studied catalytic membranes. With the PAMPS-co-PMMA-1:1 membrane, the esterification reaction using acetic acid achieved 85% isopropyl acetate. These results are closely correlated with the increase in IEC (2.63 mmol H+g−1) and the relationship between weight loss (20.3%) and swelling degree (68%) in 2-propanol.

Population and industrial growth in Mexico’s Bajío region demand greater electricity consumption. The production of electricity from fuel oil has severe implications on climate change and people’s health due to SO2 emissions. This study describes the simulation of eight different scenarios for SO2 pollutant dispersion. It takes into account distance, geoenvironmental parameters, wind, terrain roughness, and Pasquill–Gifford–Turner atmospheric stability and categories of dispersion based on technical information about SO2 concentration from stacks and from one of the atmospheric monitoring stations in Salamanca city. Its transverse character, its usefulness for modeling, and epidemiological, meteorological, and fluid dynamics studies, as suggested by the models approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), show a maximum average concentration of 399 µg/m3, at an average distance of 1800 m. The best result comparison in the scenarios was scenery 8. Maximum nocturnal dispersion was shown at a wind speed of 8.4 m/s, and an SO2 concentration of 280 µg/m3 for stack 4, an atypical situation due to the geography of the city. From the validation process, a relative error of 14.7 % was obtained, which indicates the reliability of the applied Gaussian model. Regarding the mathematical solution of the model, this represents a reliable and low-cost tool that can help improve air quality management, the location or relocation of atmospheric monitoring stations, and migration from the use of fossil fuels to environmentally friendly fuels.

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by a toxic, aggregation-prone expansion of CAG repeats in the HTT gene with an age-dependent progression that leads to behavioral, cognitive and motor symptoms. Principally affecting the frontal cortex and the striatum, mHTT disrupts many cellular functions. In fact, increasing evidence shows that peripheral tissues are affected by neurodegenerative diseases. It establishes an active crosstalk between peripheral tissues and the brain in different neurodegenerative diseases. This review focuses on the current knowledge of peripheral tissue effects in HD animal and cell experimental models and identifies biomarkers and mechanisms involved or affected in the progression of the disease as new therapeutic or early diagnostic options. The particular changes in serum/plasma, blood cells such as lymphocytes, immune blood cells, the pancreas, the heart, the retina, the liver, the kidney and pericytes as a part of the blood–brain barrier are described. It is important to note that several changes in different mouse models of HD present differences between them and between the different ages analyzed. The understanding of the impact of peripheral organ inflammation in HD may open new avenues for the development of novel therapeutic targets.

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) represents a stage of subclinical inflammation and a risk factor for subsequent future type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease development. Leptin has been related with vascular and metabolic changes in GDM with heterogeneous and contradictory results with respect to their possible involvement in maternal, perinatal, and future complications. Our objective is to evaluate current evidence on the role of leptin in maternal and perinatal complications in women with GDM. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched. We evaluated the studies’ quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Meta-analyses were conducted, and heterogeneity and publication bias were examined. Thirty-nine relevant studies were finally included, recruiting 2255 GDM and 3846 control pregnant women. Leptin levels were significantly higher in GDM participants than in controls (SMD = 0.57, 95%CI = 0.19 to 0.94; p < 0.001). Subgroup meta-analysis did not evidence significant differences in leptin in the different trimesters of pregnancy. Meta-regression showed a positive significant relationship for HOMA in the GDM group (p = 0.05). According to these results, it seems that high levels of leptin can be used as predictive markers in GDM.

Resumen: Objetivo: Explorar la vivencia de los cuidados diabéticos en pacientes sometidos a amputación de miembros inferiores por pie diabético. Diseño: Estudio cualitativo con perspectiva fenomenológica. Emplazamiento: Área hospitalaria de Cádiz. Participantes: Dieciséis participantes (11 hombres y 5 mujeres) con diabetes tipo 2 y amputación no traumática de miembros inferiores. Métodos: Entrevistas semiestructuradas individuales y análisis de contenido de la información usando el método propuesto por Graneheim y Lundman. Resultados: Se identificaron 4 categorías: 1. La familia es la piedra angular de los cuidados; 2. Los aspectos socioeconómicos y laborales determinan la calidad de los autocuidados; 3. La interacción paciente-personal de salud dinamiza los cuidados; y 4. Las limitaciones en la provisión de servicios sanitarios. Conclusión: La familia, la situación económica y laboral y los factores del sistema sanitario constituyen los elementos más relevantes en los cuidados de pacientes con diabetes y amputación de miembros inferiores. Los determinantes sociales, económicos y laborales deben ser tomados en especial consideración y de manera más personalizada desde los servicios sanitarios para aumentar el impacto de los cuidados proporcionados en la prevención de las complicaciones de la diabetes mellitus. Abstract: Aim: To examine the experience of diabetic care in patients undergoing lower limb amputation. Design: A qualitative study using the phenomenological approach. Setting: Cadiz Health District. Participants: A total of 16 patients (11 men and 5 women) diagnosed with diabetes mellitus type 2 and with non-traumatic lower limb amputation. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were performed, followed by a content analysis according Graneheim and Lundman. Results: Four categories were identified: 1. The family is the cornerstone for diabetic care. 2. The socio-economic and working conditions determine the quality of self-care. 3. The patient-health professional interaction facilitates patient care. 4. Limitations in the provision of health services. Conclusion: Family, economic and working conditions, along with health system-related factors are the most important elements in the care of patients with diabetes and amputations. Social, economic and working conditions determine diabetic complications. In order to enhance health care impact on the prevention of diabetes mellitus complications, health system policy makers must take these facts seriously into consideration and in a more personalised manner. Palabras clave: Diabetes mellitus, Pie diabético, Amputación, Autocuidados, Estudio cualitativo, Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, Diabetic foot, Amputation, Self-care, Qualitative study

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most common complications of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and is directly associated with inflammatory processes. Currently, neuro-inflammation is considered an early event in DR and proceeds via microglia polarization. A hallmark of DR is the presence of retinal reactive gliosis. Here we report the beneficial effect of (SS,1R)-1-docecylsulfiny-5N,6O-oxomethylidenenojirimycin ((Ss)-DS-ONJ), a member of the sp2-iminosugar glycolipid (sp2-IGL) family, by decreasing iNOS and inflammasome activation in Bv.2 microglial cells exposed to pro-inflammatory stimuli. Moreover, pretreatment with (Ss)-DS-ONJ increased Heme-oxygenase (HO)-1 as well as interleukin 10 (IL10) expression in LPS-stimulated microglial cells, thereby promoting M2 (anti-inflammatory) response by the induction of Arginase-1. The results strongly suggest that this is the likely molecular mechanism involved in the anti-inflammatory effects of (SS)-DS-ONJ in microglia. (SS)-DS-ONJ further reduced gliosis in retinal explants from type 1 diabetic BB rats, which is consistent with the enhanced M2 response. In conclusion, targeting microglia polarization dynamics in M2 status by compounds with anti-inflammatory activities offers promising therapeutic interventions at early stages of DR.

Introduction Very little is known about the influence of socioeconomic status on type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) complications. Our aim was to determine whether socioeconomic level is a risk factor for the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in patients with T1DM.Research design and methods A cohort of 150 patients with T1DM were studied prospectively over 9 years. Socioeconomic status was assessed using a neighborhood-level measure based on an index of deprivation. The contribution of other variables such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetic nephropathy and smoking habit was evaluated. Cox proportional hazards models were used to quantify the associations.Results The incidence of DR was 21.6 cases per 1000 patient-years. Multivariable analyses showed that for each percentage point increase in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), the risk of developing DR increased by 58% (HR 1.58, 95% CI 1.19 to 2.10).Patients with T1DM onset >18 years of age and resident in areas of lower socioeconomic levels presented with almost triple the risk of developing DR (HR 2.95, 95% CI 1.08 to 8.00) compared with those with onset

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) increases the risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). We aimed to analyze the altered inflammatory markers and angiogenic factors among women with GDM to identify pregnant women at higher risk of developing HDP. Methods: This was a prospective study of 149 women without hypertension diagnosed in the third trimester with GDM. Inflammatory markers and angiogenic factors were measured at 28–32 weeks of pregnancy. Obstetric and perinatal outcomes were evaluated. Results: More than eight percent of the women developed HDP. Higher levels of the soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1/placental growth factor (sFlt-1/PIGF) ratio (4.9 ± 2.6 versus 2.3 ± 1.3, respectively; p < 0.001) and leptin (10.9 ± 0.8 versus 10.08 ± 1.1, respectively; p = 0.038), as well as lower levels of adiponectin (10.5 ± 1.3 versus 12.9 ± 2.7, respectively; p = 0.031), were seen in women who developed HDP versus normotensive women with GDM. A multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that adiponectin had a protective effect with 0.45-fold odds (0.23–0.83; p = 0.012), and that the sFlt-1/PIGF ratio was associated with 2.70-fold odds of developing HDP (CI 95%: 1.24–5.86; p = 0.012). Conclusion: An increase in angiogenic imbalance in the sFlt-1/PIGF ratio in women with GDM was detected and may be an indicator of developing HDP in addition to any subsequent obstetric and perinatal complications.

During Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) progression, there is chronic and low-grade inflammation that could be related to the evolution of the disease. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate whether peripheral levels of pro-inflammatory markers such as interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) is significantly different among patients with or without T1DM, in gender, management of the T1DM, detection in several biological fluids, study design, age range, and glycated hemoglobin. We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, and 26 relevant studies (2186 with T1DM, 2047 controls) were included. We evaluated the studies’ quality using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale. Meta-analyses were conducted, and heterogeneity and publication bias were examined. Compared with controls, IL-1β determined by immunoassays (pooled standardized mean difference (SMD): 2.45, 95% CI = 1.73 to 3.17; p < 0.001) was significantly elevated in T1DM. The compared IL-1β levels in patients 7: SMD = 5.43, 95% CI = 3.31–7.56; p = 0.001). Compared with the study design, IL-1β evaluated by ELISA (pooled SMD = 3.29, 95% CI = 2.27 to 4.30, p < 0.001) was significantly elevated in T1DM patients. IL-1β remained significantly higher in patients with a worse management of T1DM and in the early stage of T1DM. IL-1β levels determine the inflammatory environment during T1DM.

This paper deals with transitions of diffusing point particles between the two ends of expanding and narrowing two-dimensional conical channels. The particle trajectory starts from the reflecting boundary and ends as soon as the absorbing boundary is reached for the first time. Any such trajectories can be divided into two segments: the looping segment and the transition path segment. The latter is the last part of the trajectory that leaves the reflecting boundary and goes to the absorbing boundary without returning to the reflecting one. The remaining portion of the trajectory is the looping part, where a number of loops that begin and end at the same reflecting boundary are made without touching the absorbing boundary. Because axial diffusion of a smoothly varying channel can be approximately described as one-dimensional diffusion in the presence of an entropy potential with position-dependent effective diffusivity, we approach the problem in terms of the modified Fick–Jacobs equation. This allows us to derive analytical expressions for mean first-passage time, as well as looping and transition path times. Comparison with results from Brownian dynamics simulations allows us to establish the domain of applicability of the one-dimensional description. We also compare our results with those obtained for three-dimensional conical tubes [A. M. Berezhkovskii, L. Dagdug, and S. M. Bezrukov, J. Chem. Phys. 147, 134104 (2017)].

sp2-Iminosugar glycolipids (sp2-IGLs) represent a consolidated family of glycoconjugate mimetics encompassing a monosaccharide-like glycone moiety with a pseudoamide-type nitrogen replacing the endocyclic oxygen atom of carbohydrates and an axially-oriented lipid chain anchored at the pseudoanomeric position. The combination of these structural features makes them promising candidates for the treatment of a variety of conditions, spanning from cancer and inflammatory disorders to parasite infections. The exacerbated anomeric effect associated to the putative sp2-hybridized N-atom imparts chemical and enzymatic stability to sp2-IGLs and warrants total α-anomeric stereoselectivity in the key glycoconjugation step. A variety of O-, N-, C- and S-pseudoglycosides, differing in glycone configurational patterns and lipid nature, have been previously prepared and evaluated. Here we expand the chemical space of sp2-IGLs by reporting the synthesis of α-d-gluco-configured analogs with a bicyclic (5N,6O-oxomethylidene)nojirimycin (ONJ) core incorporating selenium at the glycosidic position. Structure–activity relationship studies in three different scenarios, namely cancer, Leishmaniasis and inflammation, convey that the therapeutic potential of the sp2-IGLs is highly dependent, not only on the length of the lipid chain (linear aliphatic C12 vs. C8), but also on the nature of the glycosidic atom (nitrogen vs. sulfur vs. selenium). The ensemble of results highlights the α-dodecylseleno-ONJ-glycoside as a promising multitarget drug candidate.

Background. Retinopathy is the most common microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus. It is the leading cause of blindness among working-aged people in developed countries. The use of telemedicine in the screening system has enabled the application of large-scale population-based programs for early retinopathy detection in diabetic patients. However, the need to support ophthalmologists with other trained personnel remains a barrier to broadening its implementation. Methods. Automatic diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy was carried out through the analysis of retinal photographs using the 2iRetinex software. We compared the categorical diagnoses of absence/presence of retinopathy issued by family physicians (PCP) with the same categories provided by the algorithm (ALG). The agreed diagnosis of three specialist ophthalmologists is used as the reference standard (OPH). Results. There were 653 of 3520 patients diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy (DR). Diabetic retinopathy threatening to vision (STDR) was found in 82 patients (2.3%). Diagnostic sensitivity for STDR was 94% (ALG) and 95% (PCP). No patient with proliferating or severe DR was misdiagnosed in both strategies. The k-value of the agreement between the ALG and OPH was 0.5462, while between PCP and OPH was 0.5251 (p = 0.4291). Conclusions. The diagnostic capacity of 2iRetinex operating under normal clinical conditions is comparable to screening physicians.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most common cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries. The prevalence of CVD is much higher in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), who may benefit from lifestyle changes, which include adapted diets. In this review, we provide the role of different groups of nutrients in patients with T2DM and CVD, as well as dietary approaches that have been associated with better and worse outcomes in those patients. Many different diets and supplements have proved to be beneficial in T2DM and CVD, but further studies, guidelines, and dietary recommendations are particularly required for patients with both diseases.

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have an increasing influence on the way we interact, learn, and live. The increase in teaching and learning methodologies that are mediated by ICT in the field of education and in the domestic settings encourages the design of new effective technological tools, supported by scientific research and development to improve student learning. The challenge psychology is facing in the education field is to promote those technologies and make them available to the education community. Technologies also would produce attractive items for users and realistic commercial issues for businesses. This also allows an effective transfer for scientific work, providing visibility to Research and Development. In this context, the main aim of the article is to describe the process to get an agreement between Babyradio (a children’s entertainment company: https://babyradio.es/) and our research team, starting a collaborative work between two groups of people (Babyradio’s technical designer and Psychologist-Engineers software designer), in order to create several educative applications (APPs) in the field of early mathematics cognition. The institutional framework of the relationship of the R&D project and a children’s entertainment company is described. The article also focuses on experience in Psychology, Technological Innovation, and Entrepreneurship. In considering the efficiency of the agreement, we present different APPs designed for tablets and smartphone devices, adapted to the different operating systems (IOS, Android, Windows). APPs are designed to instill the cognitive fundamentals associated with early math learning for students aged 4 to 7 years. The study developed after this babyradio-university enterprise agreement contributes to the development of mathematics skills in children, aged 4–7 years, so that they can successfully meet the mathematics school requirements; it also contributes to encouraging a more positive attitude toward mathematics. This study also suggests how the education system and software and educational content developers’ companies would manage verified instructional APPs, with a more realistic commercial perspective.

Investigaciones recientes señalan que las habilidades de procesamiento numérico de los niños al comienzo de la Educación Primaria, preceden al desarrollo de la aritmética en el alumnado, en las modalidades de codificación verbal oral y alfabética, analógica y escritura en cifras árabes. En este trabajo que pretende conocer el desarrollo de la cognición numérica en alumnado de Educación Primaria, se presentan los resultados de una muestra de 2º y 3º en esta etapa, que nos permiten mostrar diferencias significativas en los niveles de ejecución entre los niños a la hora de responder a las tareas diseñadas para evaluar dicho procesamiento numérico.

Desde la corriente de Alfabetización Emergente se investiga sobre los predictores de la competencia lectora. Uno de esos predictores es la conciencia fonológica. Nuestro estudio pretende comprender la secuencia normal de desarrollo en el mecanismo de adquisición lectora averiguando el grado de dificultad de distintas tareas de conciencia fonológica y su relación con la competencia lectora posterior, en 125 alumnos prelectores. Las evaluaciones han sido realizadas en dos momentos: 1) Educación Infantil de 4 y 5 años, y 2) 1º de Primaria y 2º de Primaria; respectivamente. Los instrumentos empleados han sido la Batería de Inicio a la Lectura (BIL 3-6) y el Test de Lectura y Escritura en Español. Los datos han sido sometidos a análisis de los descriptivos, a análisis correlacional, a análisis de regresión y ANOVA; y a análisis factorial. Los resultados muestran que a los alumnos prelectores les resultan más sencillas las tareas de aislar sílabas y fonemas junto con las tareas de contar sílabas, que la tarea de omisión de sílaba y la tarea de rima, resultando esta última la más difícil. Los resultados avalan que existe correlación entre el nivel de competencia lectora y las tareas de conciencia fonológica.

AbstractBackground Millepora alcicornis is a branching hydrocoral common throughout the Caribbean Sea. Like other members of this genus, this species is capable of inducing skin eruptions and blisters with severe pain after contact. In the present study, we investigated the toxicity of theM. alcicornis aqueous extract on several animal models. Considering that some cnidarian hemolysins have been associated to local tissue damage, since they also induce lysis of other cell types, we also made a partial characterization of the hemolytic activity of M. alcicornis aqueous extract. This information is important for understanding the defense mechanisms of the “fire corals”.Methods The effects of pH, temperature, and some divalent cations on the hemolytic activity of the extract were assayed, followed by a zymogram analysis to detect the cytolysins and determine their approximate molecular weight. The toxicity of the aqueous extract was assayed in mice, by intravenous administration, and histopathological changes on several tissues were analyzed by light microscopy. The toxicity of the extract was also tested inArtemia salina nauplii, and the damages caused on the crustaceans were analyzed by transmission and scanning electron microscopy.Results The hemolytic activity of the hydrocoral extract was enhanced in the presence of Ca 2+ (≥2 mM), Mg 2+ (≥6 mM), and Ba2+ (≥0.1 mM); however, it was reduced in the presence of Cu2+(≥0.1 mM), Zn 2+ (≥6 mM), and EDTA (≥0.34 mM). Differences in the pH did not affect the hemolytic activity, but it was temperature-sensitive, since preincubation at ≥ 50 °C sharply reduced hemolysis. The zymogram showed the presence of two types of hemolysins: ~ 28–30 kDa proteins with phospholipase A 2 activity and ~ 200 kDa proteins that do not elicit enzymatic activity. The aqueous extract of this cnidarian was lethal to mice (LD 50 = 17 μg protein/g), and induced kidney, liver, and lung damages. Under denaturing conditions, the aqueous extract completely lost its toxic and hemolytic activities.Conclusions The results showed that the M. alcicornis aqueous extract contains two types of thermolabile hemolysins: proteins of approximately 28–30 kDa with PLA 2 activity, while the others are larger proteins of approximately 200 kDa, which do not possess PLA 2activity. Those thermolabile cytolysins, which are stable to pH changes and whose activity is calcium dependent, are capable of inducing damage in lung, kidney and liver tissues, resulting in a slow death of mice. M. alcicorniscytolysins also provoke tissue dissociation inArtemia salina nauplii that might be attributed to pore forming mechanisms.

A set of five new aromatic poly(imide)s (PIs) incorporating pendant acyclic alkyl moieties were synthesized. The difference among them was the length and bulkiness of the pendant group, which comprises of linear alkyl chains from three to six carbon atoms, and a tert-butyl moiety. The effect of the side group length on the physical, thermal, mechanical, and gas transport properties was analyzed. All PIs exhibited low to moderate molecular weights (Mn ranged between 27.930–58.970 Da, and Mw ranged between 41.760–81.310 Da), good solubility in aprotic polar solvents, except for PI-t-4, which had a tert-butyl moiety and was soluble even in chloroform. This behaviour was probably due to the most significant bulkiness of the side group that increased the interchain distance, which was corroborated by the X-ray technique (PI-t-4 showed two d-spacing values: 5.1 and 14.3 Å). Pure gas permeabilities for several gases were reported (PI-3 (Barrer): He(52); H2(46); O2(5.4); N2(1.2); CH4(1.1); CO2(23); PI-t-4 (Barrer): He(139); H2(136); O2(16.7); N2(3.3); CH4(2.3); CO2(75); PI-5 (Barrer): He(44); H2(42); O2(5.9); N2(1.4); CH4(1.2); CO2(27); PI-6 (Barrer): He(45); H2(43); O2(6.7); N2(1.7); CH4(1.7); CO2(32)). Consistent higher volume in the side group was shown to yield the highest gas permeability. All poly(imide)s exhibited high thermal stability with 10% weight loss degradation temperature between 448–468 °C and glass transition temperature between 240–270 °C. The values associated to the tensile strength (45–87 MPa), elongation at break (3.2–11.98%), and tensile modulus (1.43–2.19 GPa) were those expected for aromatic poly(imide)s.

This article presents the results of a comparative study regarding the impact and contribution of two instructional approaches to formal and informal mathematical reasoning with two groups of Spanish students, aged four and five. Data indicated that for both age groups, children under the ABN method [Open Algorithm Based on Numbers (ABN)] (n = 147) achieved better results than the group under the CBC approach (Closed Algorithms Based on Ciphers) (n = 82), which is the widespread approach in Spanish schools to teach formal and informal mathematical reasoning. Furthermore, the comparative analyses showed that the effect is higher in the group of students who received more instruction on skills considered domain-specific predictors of later arithmetic performance. Statistically significant differences were found in 9 of the 10 dimensions evaluated by TEMA-3 (p < 0.01), as well as on estimation tasks in the number-line for the 5-year-old-group. However, the 4-year-old group only presented significant results in calculation and concepts tasks about informal mathematical reasoning. We discuss that these differences arise by differential exposure to specific number-sense tasks, since the groups proved to be equivalent in terms of receptive vocabulary, processing speed, and working memory. The educational consequences of these results were also analyzed.

Retinal degenerative diseases are a group of heterogeneous diseases that include age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinitis pigmentosa (RP), and diabetic retinopathy (DR). The progressive degeneration of the retinal neurons results in a severe deterioration of the visual function. Neuroinflammation is an early hallmark of many neurodegenerative disorders of the retina including AMD, RP and DR. Microglial cells, key components of the retinal immune defense system, are activated in retinal degenerative diseases. In the microglia the interplay between the proinflammatory/classically activated or antiinflammatory/alternatively activated phenotypes is a complex dynamic process that occurs during the course of disease due to the different environmental signals related to pathophysiological conditions. In this regard, an adequate transition from the proinflammatory to the anti-inflammatory response is necessary to counteract retinal neurodegeneration and its subsequent damage that leads to the loss of visual function. Insulin like-growth factor-1 (IGF-1) has been considered as a pleiotropic factor in the retina under health or disease conditions and several effects of IGF-1 in retinal immune modulation have been described. In this review, we provide recent insights of inflammation as a common feature of retinal diseases (AMD, RP and RD) highlighting the role of microglia, exosomes and IGF-1 in this process.

A case study of developmental dyslexia of a university student is presented. The purpose of this work is to describe the process of evaluation, intervention and monitoring from the University Service of Psychological and Psychopedagogical Attention (SAP). The results indicate the importance of the development of a program adapted to individual needs and the adequate training of certain skills for learning in higher education.

Resumen El estudio permite identificar elementos a considerar en procesos de formación de profesores de matemáticas de ciclo inicial, a partir de la evidencia y análisis empírico de diversas variables asociadas al logro académico en la disciplina. Se destaca la necesidad de relevar el rol de factores afectivo-actitudinales vinculados al aprendizaje de la matemática, ya que ellos pueden afianzar, bloquear o inhibir su nivel de logro. En base a esta evidencia, se considera importante que los profesionales de ciclo inicial incorporen a sus competencias pedagógicas, un amplio número de estrategias y recursos didácticos orientados a promover el desarrollo de Competencias Matemáticas Tempranas (CMT), no sólo de tipo relacional sino también numérico, y para el fortalecimiento de la inteligencia lógica. El análisis de regresión logística binaria realizado (n=630) permite inferir que niveles medio-altos en inteligencia lógica, adecuados niveles de CMT de tipo relacional y numérico, una predisposición favorable hacia las matemáticas, y bajos niveles de percepción de indisciplina al interior del aula explican en gran parte la probabilidad de pertenecer a la categoría de desempeño Medio-Alto en matemáticas. Se discuten los hallazgos y potenciales implicaciones para los docentes en ejercicio y los procesos formativos de los que forman parte.

Objectives: To describe usual physical activity level and analyze its association with metabolic control and presence of microvascular complications in a cohort of patients with type 1 diabetes (DM-1) in south Spain. Methods: Observational, cross-sectional study that included one hundred thirty patients, aged 33.9 ± 11.5 years-old with disease duration of 16.5 ± 9.5 years that consecutively were recruited among patients attending the Endocrinology Service of Puerta del Mar University Hospital (Cádiz, Spain). Usual physical activity level was assessed using the "General Practice Physical Activity Questionnaire" (GPPAQ) together with clinical, anthropometric, metabolic parameters and microvascular complications. Results: DM-1 patients were grouped in four categories of physical activity level: inactive (n = 33; 25.3%), moderately inactive (n = 31; 23.8%), moderately active (n = 26; 20.0%) and active (n = 40; 30.9%). We observed no significant differences in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level between the different physical activity groups analyzed. Patients classified as moderately active and active were more often men, significantly younger and presented lower plasmatic levels of triglycerides than patients classified as inactive or moderately inactive, with no differences in other clinical or anthropometric variables. In addition, active and moderately active patients had a lower prevalence of diabetic retinopathy and microvascular complications in general compared to inactive or moderately inactive patients. Conclusions: Half of patients with type 1 diabetes evaluated were classified as inactive and these patients had a higher prevalence of diabetic retinopathy than active patients. No difference in HbA1c levels was documented among different groups of physical activity.

Este trabajo presenta la comparación de los resultados de las técnicas heurísticas de ABC colonias de abejas artificiales (Artificial Bee Colony) y PSO enjambres de partículas (Particle Swarm Optimization) que son utilizadas para la estimación de parámetros de modelos de regresión no lineal. Los algoritmos fueron probados sobre 27 bases de datos de la colección NIST(2001), de las cuales 8 son consideradas con un alto grado de dificultad, 11 con un grado de dificultad medio y 8 con un grado de dificultad bajo. Se presentan los resultados experimentales.