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Research on improving engineering skills in students advocates for high-quality teaching practices as well as the implementation of digitally enhanced management systems, such as e-Learning. Furthermore, COVID-19 led to several changes in education, such as switching drastically from face to face to emergency remote and later hybrid teaching. This study has focused on the proposal, the application and the evaluation of a new e-Learning teaching method. "FastTest PlugIn" has been used for the creation of large sets of questions, to develop parameterised and individualised exercises in Moodle. The method has been applied since COVID-19, considering different types of teaching: completely remote, hybrid and face to face. It has been implemented in some courses of the bachelor's and master's degree in engineering at the University of Cadiz (Spain). The academic performance and students' feedback on the method have been obtained. During remote teaching, students presented lower scores than before the pandemic. However, as students became familiar with the method and at least face-to-face exams were carried out, the scores and students' perception of the difficulty of the courses improved. The main novelty of this method is the reliability of creating different exercises for a consistent level of difficulty; the ability to avoid dishonest actions of students; and the time saved by instructors, as exercises are automatically corrected. This study provides the advantages and benefits of digitally enhancing university teaching. Furthermore, it is the first to investigate the integration of "FastTest PlugIn" to enhance teaching quality and engineering skills.

Preclinical biomedical research is limited by the predictiveness of in vivo and in vitro models. While in vivo models offer the most complex system for experimentation, they are also limited by ethical, financial, and experimental constraints. In vitro models are simplified models that do not offer the same complexity as living animals but do offer financial affordability and more experimental freedom; therefore, they are commonly used. Traditional 2D cell lines cannot fully simulate the complexity of the epithelium of healthy organs and limit scientific progress. The One Health Initiative was established to consolidate human, animal, and environmental health while also tackling complex and multifactorial medical problems. Reverse translational research allows for the sharing of knowledge between clinical research in veterinary and human medicine. Recently, organoid technology has been developed to mimic the original organs epithelial microstructure and function more reliably. While human and murine organoids are available, numerous other organoids have been derived from traditional veterinary animals and exotic species in the last decade. With these additional organoid models, species previously excluded from in vitro research are becoming accessible, therefore unlocking potential translational and reverse translational applications of animals with unique adaptations that overcome common problems in veterinary and human medicine.

Abstract Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic health reflects the interactions between metabolic risk factors, chronic kidney disease, and the cardiovascular system. A growing body of literature suggests that metabolic syndrome (MetS) in individuals of normal weight is associated with a high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and an increased mortality. The aim of this study was to establish a non-invasive preclinical model of MetS in support of future research focusing on the effects of novel antidiabetic therapies beyond glucose reduction, independent of obesity. Eighteen healthy adult Beagle dogs were fed an isocaloric Western diet (WD) for ten weeks. Biospecimens were collected at baseline (BAS1) and after ten weeks of WD feeding (BAS2) for measurement of blood pressure (BP), serum chemistry, lipoprotein profiling, blood glucose, glucagon, insulin secretion, NT-proBNP, angiotensins, oxidative stress biomarkers, serum, urine, and fecal metabolomics. Differences between BAS1 and BAS2 were analyzed using non-parametric Wilcoxon signed-rank testing. The isocaloric WD model induced significant variations in several markers of MetS, including elevated BP, increased glucose concentrations, and reduced HDL-cholesterol. It also caused an increase in circulating NT-proBNP levels, a decrease in serum bicarbonate, and significant changes in general metabolism, lipids, and biogenic amines. Short-term, isocaloric feeding with a WD in dogs replicated key biological features of MetS while also causing low-grade metabolic acidosis and elevating natriuretic peptides. These findings support the use of the WD canine model for studying the metabolic effects of new antidiabetic therapies independent of obesity.

Using commercial videogames as learning objects for the development of 21st century skills in secondary schools has been a relevant topic of study in recent years. But its use in the field of physical education is especially interesting considering its nature. The aim of this article is to explore how elements like technological competence, game-based learning, accessibility, and enjoyment are relevant factors that influence the acceptance of the use of video games as a learning aid in the context of physical education, as well as their influence on academic performance in the subject itself. The study enlisted the participation of 166 secondary school students. A quasi-experimental pre-post design with a non-equivalent control group was used. The intervention consisted of a specific training program entailing nine one-hour sessions once a week. To develop the model, the data was analysed using the optimisation technique of partial least squares (PLS). Our findings show that the factors studied, which are accessibility, enjoyment, technological competence and learning through video games, have an impact on students' acceptance of video games as an educational tool and how this positive relationship leads to enhanced academic performance in physical education.

Gendered ageism contributes to invisibility and homogenization of older women, harming their health, quality of life and limiting their social participation. Health issues related to aging have received increasing attention in the scientific literature. However, studies on aging that include a gender dimension or ethnic aspects remain scarce. This article presents the results of a systematic review on older women’s health and wellbeing, gender inequalities, age discrimination experienced by older women and their intersections with other forms of discrimination. Between January and February 2023, we conducted a literature review using PRISMA in the Web of Science Core Collection, MEDLINE and SciELO Citation Index. We selected 43 empirical studies from different countries focusing on women over 65 years. The findings show the incidence of discrimination and inequality in health care experienced by older women, ageist attitudes among health care providers and other professionals, experiences of abuse and gender-based violence among older women. Additionally, the study examines the impact of ageism and other forms of discrimination on the health of LGBTQ+ older people, ethnic minorities, older women with disabilities, and other non-traditional groups.

The metaverse is a digital space that empowers users to interact socially, using new and specific technologies, to generate value and co-create experiences. This paper provides a framework for organising the themes discussed in pioneering literature. An adaptation of the PRISMA process was used to explain the methodology applied. The results showed that more than 84 % of studies on the metaverse have been published since 2020. Technologies such as augmented reality and artificial intelligence are positioned as the basic themes, and decision-making and human-machine interface are emerging themes. This paper constitutes an original contribution as it also presents the highlights and structure of the main themes on metaverse. Additionally, it develops an analytical framework for understanding the metaverse value creation. Therefore, this paper represents a starting point for a reflection on the applications of the metaverse that can contribute to the achievement of productive and valuable progress in various fields of research.

There is a growing search for methodologies and tools that foster student motivation and learning. This experimental study aims to examine students’ acceptance and attitude towards the use of game-based applications, as well as analyze how game-based learning impacts the acquisition and development of basic competences. To this end, online questionnaire responses from 135 undergraduate computer science students were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results indicate that students perceive these tools as useful and easy to use, thus exerting a positive influence on learning motivation and behavior change towards the implementation of game-based learning. Furthermore, the crucial role of game-based learning strategies in the development of formative collaborative learning is emphasized, as well as their positive influence on the acquisition of essential soft skills for the comprehensive training of computer science students. The conclusions underscore the importance of considering the GBL approach as a valuable educational strategy to motivate and enhance learning and develop fundamental skills in students.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented shifts in higher education worldwide. These sudden educational changes have the potential to accelerate the acceptance of online learning, or, conversely, to increase its rejection. The purpose of this experimental study is to examine students' acceptance of and intentions toward the continued use of online learning, which was abruptly introduced by face-to-face universities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To this end, responses to an online questionnaire from students at three face-to-face universities (N = 194) were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The study was based on the technology acceptance model (TAM), we also included other relevant factors, such as emotional aspects, feelings of uncertainty, security of the e-learning system, and satisfaction with educational technology. The results indicate that the uncertainty associated with COVID-19, emotional factors, and security did not significantly affect the students' intention to use e-learning systems; however, these factors had a significant impact on students' perception of satisfaction, which is a decisive factor that positively influences the process of adoption of e-learning systems. This study discusses noteworthy theoretical and practical implications for education that will help teachers and universities in decision making regarding the digital transformation process.

Background: Podostemaceae is the largest family of strictly aquatic angiosperms. Species of this family possess unusual morphological and reproductive characters, grow attached to rocks in rivers with strong currents, and have a life cycle tightly linked to seasonality. Due to its reduced floral structures, which characterizes most species, the analysis of developmental stages and events such as anthesis or stigma receptivity has proven difficult. Question: How floral morphology, floral development and stigma receptivity of different stages of flower development of Marathrum rubrum Novelo & C. T. Philbrick are related among them? Studied species: Marathrum rubrum Novelo & C. T. Philbrick. Study site and dates: Horcones River, Jalisco, Mexico. January, 2014 and 2015. Methods: We made an in situ and lab analyses of flower morphology to assess the relationships between flower morphology, stages of development, reproductive structures, and stigma receptivity, during different stages of flower development. Results: When flowers emerge from the spathella, both the ovules and pollen grains are fully developed, implying that sporogenesis and gametogenesis take place within the stem while the plant is still submerged. Conclusions: The morphological changes observed in the flowers of M. rubrum during the analyzed stages are related only to events associated with fertilization and fruit development. The time-course of morphological changes in the flowers, from anthesis to fruit formation, lasts 20 to 30 days. The detailed observation of the aerial reproductive biology of M. rubrum bears important implications to the genetic structure of populations, plant fitness and conservation biology in threatened environments.

Organoids are 3-dimensional (3D) self-assembled structures capable of replicating the microanatomy and physiology of the epithelial components of their organ of origin. Adult stem cell (ASC) derived organoids from the liver have previously been shown to differentiate into primarily mature cholangiocytes, and their partial differentiation into functional hepatocytes can be promoted using specific media compositions. While full morphological differentiation of mature hepatocytes from ASCs has not yet been reported for any species, the functional differentiation can be approximated using various media compositions.Six differentiation media formulations from published studies on hepatic organoids were used for the differentiation protocol. Target species for these protocols were humans, mice, cats, and dogs, and encompassed various combinations and concentrations of four major hepatocyte media components: Bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7), Fibroblast Growth Factor 19 (FGF19), Dexamethasone (Dex), and Gamma-Secretase Inhibitor IX (DAPT). Additionally, removing R-spondin from basic organoid media has previously been shown to drive the differentiation of ASC into mature hepatocytes. Differentiation media (N = 20) were designed to encompass combinations of the four major hepatocyte media components. The preferred differentiation of ASC-derived organoids from liver tissue into mature hepatocytes over cholangiocytes was confirmed by albumin production in the culture supernatant.Out of the twenty media compositions tested, six media resulted in the production of the highest amounts of albumin in the supernatant of the organoids. The cell lines cultured using these six media were further characterized via histological staining, transmission electron microscopy, RNA in situ hybridization, analysis of gene expression patterns, immunofluorescence, and label-free proteomics. The results indicate that preferential hepatocyte maturation from canine ADC-derived organoids from liver tissue is mainly driven by Dexamethasone and DAPT components. FGF19 did not enhance organoid differentiation but improved cell culture survival. Furthermore, we confirm that removing R-spondin from the media is crucial for establishing mature hepatic organoid cultures.

Introducción: Existe evidencia sobre una asociación directa entre la Violencia Machista/Violencia de Género (VdG) y el suicidio, e incluso se señala que la VdG es el principal factor precipitante para que una mujer realice una tentativa suicida. Además, se ha demostrado que las mujeres con enfermedades mentales crónicas sufren especialmente más violencia que la población en general. Sin embargo, existen relativamente pocos datos sobre la capacidad de detección de VdG de los servicios de urgencias. En Catalunya, el Programa Código Riesgo de Suicidio (CRS) atendió a 12.596 persones con episodios de conducta suicida y ha demostrado su eficacia en nuestro hospital. Objetivo principal: Cuantificar el grado de detección de la VdG de nuestros registros sanitarios en mujeres visitadas en el servicio urgencias de nuestro hospital por ideación y/o tentativa suicida y que han sido incluidas en el Programa CRS. Hipótesis principal: La detección actual de VdG en las mujeres es

Abstract Link prediction in complex networks has recently attracted a great deal of attraction in diverse scientific domains, including social and biological sciences. Given a snapshot of a network, the goal is to predict links that are missing in the network or that are likely to occur in the near future. This problem has both theoretical and practical significance; it not only helps us to identify missing links in a network more efficiently by avoiding the expensive and time consuming experimental processes, but also allows us to study the evolution of a network with time. To address the problem of link prediction, numerous attempts have been made over the recent years that exploit the local and the global topological properties of the network to predict missing links in the network. In this paper, we use parametrised matrix forest index (PMFI) to predict missing links in a network. We show that, for small parameter values, this index is linked to a heat diffusion process on a graph and therefore encodes geometric properties of the network. We then develop a framework that combines the PMFI with a local similarity index to predict missing links in the network. The framework is applied to numerous networks obtained from diverse domains such as social network, biological network, and transport network. The results show that the proposed method can predict missing links with higher accuracy when compared to other state-of-the-art link prediction methods.

Residual stress may have an important influence on the mechanical response of residually stressed materials. This paper is concerned with the effects of residual stress on the stability of inflated, axially extended, residually stressed circular cylindrical tube. To this end, the theory of small incremental deformations superimposed on a large underlying finite deformation is used. Asymmetric and axisymmetric types of bifurcation are considered. It is found that for residual stress parameter γ of the same sign the effect of the residual stress is different depending on the type of bifurcation. For example, for asymmetric bifurcations with mode number m = 1 and with positive γ inclusion of residual stress makes the tube more stable, on the other hand, for axisymmetric bifurcations inclusion of residual stress, corresponding to positive residual stress parameter γ, leads to increase of instabilities. In all cases, residual stress with positive and negative residual stress parameter γ leads to a symmetric character of bifurcation curves.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented shifts in higher education worldwide. These sudden educational changes have the potential to accelerate the acceptance of online learning, or, conversely, to increase its rejection. The purpose of this experimental study is to examine students’ acceptance of and intentions toward the continued use of online learning, which was abruptly introduced by face-to-face universities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To this end, responses to an online questionnaire from students at three face-to-face universities ( N = 194) were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The study was based on the technology acceptance model (TAM), we also included other relevant factors, such as emotional aspects, feelings of uncertainty, security of the e-learning system, and satisfaction with educational technology. The results indicate that the uncertainty associated with COVID-19, emotional factors, and security did not significantly affect the students’ intention to use e-learning systems; however, these factors had a significant impact on students’ perception of satisfaction, which is a decisive factor that positively influences the process of adoption of e-learning systems. This study discusses noteworthy theoretical and practical implications for education that will help teachers and universities in decision making regarding the digital transformation process.

Abstract In the past, to model fibre stiffness of finite-radius fibres, previous finite-strain (nonlinear) models were mainly based on the theory of non-linear strain-gradient (second-gradient) theory or Kirchhoff rod theory. We note that these models characterize the mechanical behaviour of polar transversely isotropic solids with infinitely many purely flexible fibres with zero radius. To introduce the effect of fibre bending stiffness on purely flexible fibres with zero radius, these models assumed the existence of couple stresses (contact torques) and non-symmetric Cauchy stresses. However, these stresses are not present on deformations of actual non-polar elastic solids reinforced by finite-radius fibres. In addition to this, the implementation of boundary conditions for second gradient models is not straightforward and discussion on the effectiveness of strain gradient elasticity models to mechanically describe continuum solids is still ongoing. In this paper, we develop a constitutive equation for a non-linear non-polar elastic solid, reinforced by embedded fibers, in which elastic resistance of the fibers to bending is modelled via the classical branches of continuum mechanics, where the development of the theory of stresses is based on non-polar materials; that is, without using the second gradient theory, which is associated with couple stresses and non-symmetric Cauchy stresses. In view of this, the proposed model is simple and somewhat more realistic compared to previous second gradient models.

Artificial intelligence, augmented, virtual, and mixed reality applications are improving business tools to increase their efficiency and ability to innovate. Technological innovation offers creative opportunities, but each generation values these advances differently. This study analysed the intergenerational differences and their leadership styles. The research questions are as follows: what are the main characteristics of each generation? And what leadership style is most appropriate for managing generational diversity in companies? Firstly, the main characteristics of each generation—Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, Generation Z, and Generation Alpha—were identified. Secondly, the most representative leadership styles of each generation were analysed. And thirdly, a proposal for a leadership style that can be used to better manage the intergenerational needs and technological demands of companies was presented. The development of leadership styles that take account of all generations can support economic growth and the creation of innovative and sustainable industries, as well as improve social welfare.

We analyze bifurcation for a cylindrical membrane capable of swelling subjected to combined axial loading and internal pressure. The material is conceptualized as an isotropic and absorbent matrix (it can swell when it is exposed to some swelling agent, for instance) containing nonabsorbing fibers. More in particular, fibers are symmetrically arranged in two helically distributed families which are (also) mechanically equivalent. Arterial wall tissue has been modeled using this theoretical framework. The matrix of the membrane is taken to be a swellable neo-Hookean material. The swollen membrane is then inflated and axially stretched so that the circular cylindrical geometry is initially preserved. Nevertheless, prismatic, bulging, and bending (composite) bifurcation conditions are analyzed. It is shown that for membranes with and without fibers, prismatic bifurcation does not play a major role. On the other hand, bending and bulging are feasible for fiber-reinforced membranes. Results capture the onset of bifurcation configurations corresponding to bending and bulging and highlight possible coupling during postbifurcation as it might occur, for example, in the formation and development of an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

In this paper, we propose a spectral approach to model finite deformations of fibre-reinforced elastic solids with fibre bending stiffness. The constructed constitutive equations depend on spectral invariants, where each one has a clear physical meaning and hence are attractive for use in experiment and analysis. With the use of spectral invariants, we easily obtain the number of independent invariants and the number of invariants in the corresponding minimal integrity or irreducible basis. The proposed finite strain energy prototypes are consistent with their infinitesimal strain energy function counterparts. Some results for pure bending of a slab, and the extension and torsion of solid cylinder, that could be useful for experiments and numerical validations, are given. The proposed model could be used to obtain numerical results via modification of some computational methods found in the literature.

Preclinical biomedical research is limited by the predictiveness of in vivo and in vitro models. While in vivo models offer the most complex system for experimentation, they are also limited by ethical, financial, and experimental constraints. In vitro models are simplified models that do not offer the same complexity as living animals but do offer financial affordability and more experimental freedom; therefore, they are commonly used. Traditional 2D cell lines cannot fully simulate the complexity of the epithelium of healthy organs and limit scientific progress. The One Health Initiative was established to consolidate human, animal, and environmental health while also tackling complex and multifactorial medical problems. Reverse translational research allows for the sharing of knowledge between clinical research in veterinary and human medicine. Recently, organoid technology has been developed to mimic the original organ’s epithelial microstructure and function more reliably. While human and murine organoids are available, numerous other organoids have been derived from traditional veterinary animals and exotic species in the last decade. With these additional organoid models, species previously excluded from in vitro research are becoming accessible, therefore unlocking potential translational and reverse translational applications of animals with unique adaptations that overcome common problems in veterinary and human medicine.

This paper presents an overview of the integration of participatory processes in the production of official data. Through a series of interviews with strategic stakeholders we identified the key elements to institutionalize citizen science in the production of geospatial information. This article discusses practical contexts of uses of data produced or complemented by citizens in Mexico. We analyze institutional processes that facilitates or make difficult the integration into official mechanisms for generating more accurate cartographic information in various institutions, focusing on its possible adoption, in particular by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) of Mexico. Resources, data integration models, workflows, and an organizational structure are needed to benefit from citizen science. We find that the adoption of citizen science within an organization is subject to a well-defined and structured interest driven by leadership and implemented collectively. This presents a paradigm shift in obtaining information, citizen science as official data through concrete and functional information products will allow end users to benefit from timely and accurate data. The purpose of this article is then to generate organizational knowledge on how to use citizen science in public institutions, with long-term perspective, to mediate the lack of current and accurate spatial data and participate in social innovation.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263390.].

Abstract Multimorbidity, frequently associated with aging, can be operationally defined as the presence of two or more chronic conditions. Predicting the likelihood of a patient with multimorbidity to develop a further particular disease in the future is one of the key challenges in multimorbidity research. In this paper we are using a network-based approach to analyze multimorbidity data and develop methods for predicting diseases that a patient is likely to develop. The multimorbidity data is represented using a temporal bipartite network whose nodes represent patients and diseases and a link between these nodes indicates that the patient has been diagnosed with the disease. Disease prediction then is reduced to a problem of predicting those missing links in the network that are likely to appear in the future. We develop a novel link prediction method for static bipartite network and validate the performance of the method on benchmark datasets. By using a probabilistic framework, we then report on the development of a method for predicting future links in the network, where links are labelled with a time-stamp. We apply the proposed method to three different multimorbidity datasets and report its performance measured by different performance metrics including AUC, Precision, Recall, and F-Score.

One of the greatest threats to wild strawberries (Fragaria vesca Mara des Bois) after harvest is the highly perishability at ambient temperature. Breeders have successfully met the quality demands of consumers, but the prevention of waste after harvest in fleshy fruits is still pending. Most of the waste is due to the accelerated progress of senescence-like process after harvest linked to a rapid loss of water and firmness at ambient temperature. The storage life of strawberries increases at low temperature, but their quality is limited by the loss of cell structure. The application of high CO2 concentrations increased firmness during cold storage. However, the key genes related to resistance to softening and cell wall disassembly following transference from cold storage at 20°C remain unclear. Therefore, we performed RNA-seq analysis, constructing a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to identify which molecular determinants play a role in cell wall integrity, using strawberries with contrasting storage conditions, CO2-cold stored (CCS), air-cold stored (ACS), non-cold stored (NCS) kept at ambient temperature, and intact fruit at harvest (AH). The hub genes associated with the cell wall structural architecture of firmer CO2-treated strawberries revealed xyloglucans stabilization attributed mainly to a down-regulation of Csl E1, XTH 15, Exp-like B1 and the maintenance of expression levels of nucleotide sugars transferases such as GMP and FUT as well as improved lamella integrity linked to a down-regulation of RG-lyase, PL-like and PME. The preservation of cell wall elasticity together with the up-regulation of LEA, EXPA4, and MATE, required to maintain cell turgor, is the mechanisms controlled by high CO2. In stressed air-cold stored strawberries, in addition to an acute softening, there is a preferential transcript accumulation of genes involved in lignin and raffinose pathways. Non-cold stored strawberries kept at 20°C after harvest are characterized by an enrichment in genes mainly involved in oxidative stress and up-expression of genes involved in jasmonate biosynthesis. The present results on transcriptomic analysis of CO2-treated strawberries with enhanced resistance to softening and oxidative stress at consumption will help to improve breeding strategies of both wild and cultivated strawberries.

Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) are becoming increasingly popular for their nutritional and health benefits, and their economic value is therefore increasing. The loss of quality that can occur due to softening and fungal attack is an important consideration when marketing blueberries. Despite the added value of blueberries, no studies have been carried out on how the fruit arrives at the outlets just before purchase by the consumer in terms of firmness, physico-chemical parameters, phenolic compounds, and fungal growth. The aim of this work has been, therefore, to investigate possible differences in quality parameters between blueberries purchased from ten different outlets, regardless of the supplier. The results showed that all the samples were of acceptable quality, although they all had a low maturity index at the point of sale. None of the samples studied showed clear signs of fungal decay at the time of purchase, although we were able to grow and identify some pathogen specimens after cultivation. In terms of total phenolic and anthocyanin content, as well as antioxidant activity, all the samples showed low values, possibly due to their postharvest storage, but they were within the expected range for this fruit. On the other hand, differences in the measured parameters were observed between samples of the same cultivar while no differences were found between conventionally and organically grown blueberries. This suggests that preharvest (such as edaphoclimatic conditions, agricultural practices, and cultivars) and postharvest factors (such as treatments used, storage, and transport temperatures) could influence the berry quality when they reach the consumer.

This study aimed to assess the morphometry of enterocytes as well as the goblet cell-to-enterocyte ratio in different intestinal segments of dogs with chronic enteropathies (CE). Histopathological intestinal samples from 97 dogs were included in the study (19 healthy juveniles, 21 healthy adults, 24 dogs with protein-losing enteropathy (PLE), and 33 CE dogs without PLE). Healthy adult small intestinal enterocytes showed progressively reduced epithelial cell height in the aboral direction, while juvenile dogs showed progressively increased epithelial cell height in the aboral direction. CE dogs had increased epithelial cell height in the duodenum, while PLE dogs had decreased epithelial cell heights compared to healthy adult dogs. Both the CE and PLE dogs showed decreased enterocyte width in the duodenal segment, and the ileal and colonic enterocytes of CE dogs were narrower than those of healthy adult dogs. CE dogs had a lower goblet cell-to-enterocyte ratio in the colon segment compared to healthy dogs. This study provides valuable morphometric information on enterocytes during canine chronic enteropathies, highlighting significant morphological enterocyte alterations, particularly in the small intestine, as well as a reduced goblet cell-to-enterocyte ratio in the colon of CE cases compared to healthy adult dogs.

The study of the mechanical behaviour of fibre-reinforced electroactive polymers (EAPs) with bending stiffness is beneficial in engineering for mechanical design and problem solving. However, constitutive models of fibre-reinforced EAPs with fibre bending stiffness do not exist in the literature. Hence, to enhance the understanding of the mechanical behaviour of fibre-reinforced EAPs with fibre bending stiffness, the development of a relevant constitutive equation is paramount. In this paper, we develop a constitutive equation for a nonlinear nonpolar EAP, reinforced by embedded fibres, in which the elastic resistance of the fibres to bending is modelled via the classical branches of continuum mechanics without using the second gradient theory, which assumes the existence of contact torques. In view of this, the proposed model is simple and somewhat more realistic, in the sense that contact torques do not exist in nonpolar EAPs.

Measurement(s) pro pluvia rogation date • proxy climate indicator Technology Type(s) digital curation Sample Characteristic - Environment drought Sample Characteristic - Location Mexico • Guatemala • Ecuador • Peru • Chile • Argentina • Portugal • Kingdom of Spain • French Republic • Italy • The Philippines Machine-accessible metadata file describing the reported data: https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.14372093

We derive a new homogenized model for heterogeneous porous media driven by inhomogeneous body forces. We assume that the fine scale, characterizing the heterogeneities in the medium, is larger than the pore scale, but nonetheless much smaller than the size of the material (the coarse scale). We decouple spatial variations and assume periodicity on the fine scale. Fine scale variations are formally reflected in a locally unbounded source for the arising system of partial differential equations. We apply the asymptotic homogenization technique to obtain a well-defined coarse scale Darcy-type model. The resulting problem is driven by an effective source which comprises both the coarse scale divergence of the average body force, and additional contributions which are to be computed solving a well-defined diffusion-type cell problem which is driven solely by fine scale variations of the given force. The present model can be used to predict the effect of externally applied magnetic (or electric) fields on ferrofluids (or electrolytes) flowing in porous media. This work can, in perspective, pave the way for investigations of the effect of applied forces on complex and heterogeneous hierarchical materials, such as systems of fractures or cancerous biological tissues.

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are nanometer-sized structures that can be used to reinforce cement matrices. The extent to which the mechanical properties are improved depends on the interfacial characteristics of the resulting materials, that is, on the interactions established between the CNTs and the cement. The experimental characterization of these interfaces is still impeded by technical limitations. The use of simulation methods has a great potential to give information about systems lacking experimental information. In this work, molecular dynamics (MD) and molecular mechanics (MM) were used in conjunction with finite element simulations to study the interfacial shear strength (ISS) of a structure formed by a pristine single-walled CNT (SWCNT) inserted in a tobermorite crystal. The results show that, for a constant SWCNT length, ISS values increase when the SWCNT radius increases, while for a constant SWCNT radius, shorter lengths enhance ISS values.

The advent of space applications with increased computational requirements has led the space industry to consider innovative chips and avionics architectures for high-performance on-board data processing. In a relatively limited market, the European BRAVE family of Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) offers such novel radiation-hardened solutions. Towards verification, the current work devises and applies a methodology to thoroughly assess the BRAVE FPGAs and their SW tools. The paper focuses on NG-Large, i.e., the largest FPGA of the 65nm Radiation-Hardened-By-Design (RHBD) technology of NanoXplore to date. The proposed approach comprises a number of customized steps to systematically evaluate the entire FPGA design flow. Initially, we carefully select and tune a set of high-performance Digital Signal Processing (DSP) & Computer Vision (CV) benchmarks, which were originally developed as Hardware Description Language (HDL) IPs in past projects of the European Space Agency (ESA). Subsequently, we perform exhaustive exploration of the Synthesis, Placement, and Routing stages of the SW tools, as well as testing on actual HW boards. At each step, we generate and analyze a variety of results, while we also compare them to 3rd-party solutions. The results show that NG-Large provides sufficient programmability and performance, e.g., classic CV IPs for feature detection on megapixel images can achieve a throughput of 5–10 frames per second, while the on-chip memory utilization is up to 56% better than that of 3rd-party FPGAs. As a highlight, at system-level, we successfully implement and execute an entire HW/SW algorithmic pipeline for Vision-Based Navigation (VBN) involving SpaceWire data transfers with LEON CPU & NG-Large co-processing.

For decades, qualitative research methodologies have incorporated the voice of the participants in their designs and developments. Now, the increasing importance of social impact of the research worldwide has created a new scenario for qualitative researchers, in which the egalitarian dialogue could be one of the key elements. The traditional incorporation of participants into research process is not enough; we need to incorporate new components as the egalitarian dialogue in the research process to assure the social impact of the research. In this article, we first situate the concept of egalitarian dialogue and how it has been used in a great diversity of situation and areas, and second how when we use it, we can obtain both, a greater social impact, and an enrichment of the qualitative methodological research process. We based our work in a literature review in both, the main journals included in ISI Web of Science and Scopus, highlighting the journals on qualitative methodologies and revising Horizon 2020 and Seventh Framework Projects included in the CORDIS database. This literature review presents how different research groups and researchers have used egalitarian dialogue, mainly in the last decade, as an important element to reach social impact with their research.

In recent years, the addition of carbon nanotubes to construction materials has attracted considerable interest, due to the improvement of mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of cement. The incorporation of carbon nanotubes into a cement matrix causes an increase of several mechanical properties of up to 170% even with low carbon nanotubes concentrations. The objective of this study is to analyze the influence of the type of functionalization and number of walls of carbon nanotubes on the interaction between these nanostructures and a cement surface and thus, on the improvement of their mechanical properties. Thus, single-walled and double-walled carbon nanotubes were used to investigate the influence of the number of walls. The effect of carbon nanotube functionalization was studied using carbon nanotubes functionalized with carboxyl and carboxylate groups. The experimental results demonstrate that the incorporation of carbon nanotubes into the cement matrix improves the mechanical properties of the resulting material. Functionalized carbon nanotubes perform better than pristine carbon nanotubes. Electrostatic attractions play a central role in establishing strong interactions between the carbon nanotubes and the cement surface. The presence of neutral polar groups on the carbon nanotube surface also improves this interaction. The number of walls seems to be less important.

Abstract Background Few portable exoskeletons following the assist-as-needed concept have been developed for patients with neurological disorders. Thus, the main objectives of this proof-of-concept study were 1) to explore the safety and feasibility of an exoskeleton for gait rehabilitation in stroke and multiple sclerosis patients, 2) to test different algorithms for gait assistance and measure the resulting gait changes and 3) to evaluate the user’s perception of the device. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted. Five patients were recruited (4 patients with stroke and 1 with multiple sclerosis). A robotic, one-degree-of-freedom, portable lower limb exoskeleton known as the Marsi Active Knee (MAK) was designed. Three control modes (the Zero Force Control mode, Mode 1 and Mode 3) were implemented. Spatiotemporal gait parameters were measured by the 10-m walking test (10MWT), the Gait Assessment and Intervention Tool (G.A.I.T.) and Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (gait subscale) before and after the trials. A modified QUEST 2.0 questionnaire was administered to determine each participant’s opinion about the exoskeleton. The data acquired by the MAK sensors were normalized to a gait cycle, and adverse effects were recorded. Results The MAK exoskeleton was used successfully without any adverse effects. Better outcomes were obtained in the 10MWT and G.A.I.T. when Mode 3 was applied compared with not wearing the device at all. In 2 participants, Mode 3 worsened the results. Additionally, Mode 3 seemed to improve the 10MWT and G.A.I.T. outcomes to a greater extent than Mode 1. The overall score for the user perception of the device was 2.8 ± 0.4 95% CI. Conclusions The MAK exoskeleton seems to afford positive preliminary results regarding safety, feasibility, and user acceptance. The efficacy of the MAK should be studied in future studies, and more advanced improvements in safety must be implemented.

Each time more companies seek to differentiate themselves from their competitors. For this, they resort to company certification through standards such as ISO 9001 or EFQM. The quality norms permit business to improve process management and production and reduce the lack of knowledge. Therefore, the main objective of this research is to propose a framework to support the process of improving customer's satisfaction according to ISO 9001. To achieve the main objective, the methodology of the design science research process has been followed. First, the problems in the evaluation of customer's satisfaction required by ISO 9001 have been analysed. Second, an expert system has been developed to evaluate the process. To end, the system has been validated. The results suggest that this system facilitates continuous improvement in organizations, providing the customer's vision of the organization, and making possible the implementation of actions oriented to retain customers. This study presents important managerial implications. Insights from this research allow us to offer recommendations that can help practitioners and managers interested in the implementation of expert systems, to focus in quality processes that can increase the chances of a successful adoption.

The development of Airborne and Ground systems is framed by specific regulations, usually expressed as standards. A disadvantage of those standards is the inherent complexity for its application and the verification of compliance given the high number of requirements to be checked in many different situations of the application and which are highly dependent on the applicable level of criticality. When the development of this type of system requires the incorporation of new personnel without enough knowledge about the standards, risks of mistakes in their application grow exponentially. The objective of this work is to develop an Expert System (ES) that helps to evaluate the application of the standards DO-178C and DO-278A throughout the project life cycle, at the same time it serves to facilitate both its use and the learning of its application to a wide group of professionals. The proposed underlying method for the ES will allow evaluating the set of development processes to check coverage of the standards DO-178C and DO-278A without depending on a specific life cycle model. The method involves a model of the set of processes, so they can be evaluated by the ES. Additionally, the ES will require a minimum configuration to evaluate the development of systems based on these two standards. The main result is a new generic Expert System based on rules capable of being adapted to different environment of evaluation, whichh minor configuration operations thus allowing that a Generic ES can act as a Specific ES for each situation. This configurable ES has been customized to evaluate the software life cycle based on the standards under study.