Search

Se denomina Identidad profesional a la forma en que los profesionales se definen a sí mismos en relación con su rol profesional, abarcando tanto su sentido de identidad como los comportamientos esperados asociados con ese rol. La formación de esta identidad consiste en un proceso complejo que comienza en los estudios de grado y se prolonga durante la actividad profesional del farmacéutico. En el mundo de la farmacia se han identificado varias identidades profesionales diferentes lo que puede dar idea de un cierto grado de ambigüedad en el rol que se espera de este profesional y de una falta de dirección clara y de la caracterización de aquello que hace “único” al farmacéutico, aunque también puede sugerir una visión flexible y amplia del rol de este profesional. Para que el rol asistencial que promueven las diferentes organizaciones profesionales a nivel internacional se convierta en una realidad, y la profesión se reprofesionalice, los estudiantes deben construir una identidad sólida para lo que se debe comenzar a trabajar desde los estudios de grado. Con la publicación de la reciente Directiva Delegada (UE) 2024/782 se abre una ventana de oportunidad para que tanto la Universidad como la Profesión dialoguen sobre hacia dónde debe caminar la profesión y más concretamente cuál debe ser el rol profesional del farmacéutico.

Abstract Predictive value of metabolic syndrome for prostate cancer risk is not clear. We aimed to assess the association between metabolic syndrome and its components with prostate cancer incidence. The primary outcome was prostate cancer incidence, i.e., incidence rate ratios and adjusted cumulative incidence curves derived from flexible parametric survival models. Adjusted cumulative incidence curves were derived using a flexible survival parametrical modeling framework. We analysed UK Biobank data including 242,349 adult males, recruited during 2006–2010 and followed up until 2021, during which 6,467 (2.7%) participants were diagnosed with prostate cancer. Our findings indicate that metabolic syndrome, as a whole, was not associated with prostate cancer risk (incidence rate ratios, 1.07; 95% confidence interval, 0.94–1.22). However, specific components such as hypertension and obesity increased the risk (incidence rate ratios, 1.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.03–1.44 and incidence rate ratios, 1.24; 95% confidence interval, 1.05–1.46, respectively). Other components, such as prediabetes/diabetes and low cholesterol, were associated with a reduced risk (incidence rate ratios, 0.80; 95% confidence interval, 0.67–0.94 and incidence rate ratios, 0.82; 95% confidence interval, 0.69–0.97, respectively), while hyperlipidaemia showed no significant effect (incidence rate ratios, 1.07; 95% confidence interval, 0.93–1.24). Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms behind these relationships. Prostate cancer prevention strategies might benefit from targeting modifiable risk factors, particularly hypertension and obesity.

Latent fingerprint identification is essential in forensic science for linking suspects to crime scenes or, conversely, confirming a person’s innocence. However, latent fingerprints often are partial prints with undesirable characteristics such as noise or distortion. Due to these characteristics, identifying the physical details of a latent fingerprint, known as minutiae, is a complex task. Recent publications found that there are minutiae in latent fingerprints that, when removed, increase the matching score. We have defined this type of minutia as obstructive. The importance of obstructive minutiae lies in their ability to increase the identification rate when they are identified and removed. In this work, we propose a new set of features to describe obstructive minutiae in latent fingerprints. Using this set of features, we have built datasets that describe latent fingerprints from which a subset of minutiae has been removed. Additionally, we have evaluated a set of multi-class classifiers trained with our datasets to predict if there are obstructive minutiae in a latent fingerprint. Finally, we developed two novel algorithms to identify and remove, in latent fingerprints, the obstructive minutia that generates the maximum increase in the matching score according to our set of classifiers. We employed Cumulative Match Characteristic (CMC) curves to compare the relative change of identifying an initial latent fingerprint versus a latent fingerprint with the removed obstructive minutia with the maximum increase in the matching score. We achieved an identification rate of 88.2% at Rank 1 using the XGBoost classifier on the NIST SD27 database. Similarly, the Random Forest classifier achieved an identification rate of 73.5% at Rank 1 on the NIST SD302 database.

La cuenca del río Guayas en Ecuador es la más grande en la vertiente Pacífico de Suramérica, con un área de 34 500 km2 (12.57 % del territorio nacional). Dentro de la cuenca, el embalse Daule-Peripa constituye la mayor reserva de agua del país, garantizando agua para consumo de más de ocho millones de personas, además de riego y generación hidroeléctrica. Se ha desarrollado un Sistema Hidrológico de Ayuda a la Decisión (SHAD) para gestionar eficientemente los recursos hídricos en la cuenca del río Guayas, mejorar la producción energética de las centrales hidroeléctricas y alertar tempranamente de inundaciones aguas abajo de las centrales. El SHAD integra un módulo de adquisición de datos en tiempo real, con el modelo hidrológico de tanques encargado de estimar los ingresos a los embalses en escala horaria, y el módulo de control sobre el que interaccionan los gestores. El modelo hidrológico se ha calibrado separadamente para las cuencas Daule-Peripa y Baba con datos horarios del periodo 2019-2021. Para la cuenca de Baba, el coeficiente Nash-Sutcliffe para la validación a escala diaria y horaria fue 0.77 y 0.71, respectivamente, así como 0.62 y 0.49 para Daule-Peripa. El análisis preliminar comparativo de la gestión de los recursos hídricos de la cuenca realizada desde la puesta en operación del SHAD muestra evidencias de mejoras significativas.

Abstract This study aims to investigate the intricate relationship between multiple socioeconomic, human capital, and technological factors and their impacts on the ecological footprint within the ASEAN region. Focusing on eight ASEAN nations (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam) for the period between 1990 and 2020, this study employs Driscoll Kraay Standard Error (DKSE) and Quantile Regression methodologies to examine this phenomenon comprehensively. The findings reveal that the Human Capital Index (HCI) and technological patents exhibit negative coefficients, suggesting their beneficial impact on reducing ecological footprint by 0.162% and 0.027% sequentially in the DKSE approach. By contrast, population, GDP, tourism, globalization, and trade openness show positive coefficients, indicating their potential to exacerbate environmental degradation. Notably, population emerged as the most detrimental factor. Meanwhile, HCI demonstrated the most potent beneficial effect on environmental quality, suggesting that ASEAN nations should continue investing in their people to safeguard the environment. The implications of this study are critical for policymakers and stakeholders in the ASEAN region, highlighting the need for strategic interventions that balance economic and technological advancements with environmental preservation.

Abstract Mood disorders include a set of psychiatric manifestations of increasing prevalence in our society, being mainly represented by major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD). The etiopathogenesis of mood disorders is extremely complex, with a wide spectrum of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors being responsible for their appearance and development. In this sense, immune system dysfunction represents a key mechanism in the onset and pathophysiology of mood disorders, worsening mainly the central nervous system (neuroinflammation) and the periphery of the body (systemic inflammation). However, these alterations cannot be understood separately, but as part of a complex picture in which different factors and systems interact with each other. Psychoneuroimmunoendocrinology (PNIE) is the area responsible for studying the relationship between these elements and the impact of mind–body integration, placing the immune system as part of a whole. Thus, the dysfunction of the immune system is capable of influencing and activating different mechanisms that promote disruption of the psyche, damage to the nervous system, alterations to the endocrine and metabolic systems, and disruption of the microbiota and intestinal ecosystem, as well as of other organs and, in turn, all these mechanisms are responsible for inducing and enhancing the immune dysfunction. Similarly, the clinical approach to these patients is usually multidisciplinary, and the therapeutic arsenal includes different pharmacological (for example, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and lithium) and non-pharmacological (i.e., psychotherapy, lifestyle, and electroconvulsive therapy) treatments. These interventions also modulate the immune system and other elements of the PNIE in these patients, which may be interesting to understand the therapeutic success or failure of these approaches. In this sense, this review aims to delve into the relationship between immune dysfunction and mood disorders and their integration in the complex context of PNIE. Likewise, an attempt will be made to explore the effects on the immune system of different strategies available in the clinical approach to these patients, in order to identify the mechanisms described and their possible uses as biomarkers.

Abstract Large deformations of soft materials are customarily associated with strong constitutive and geometrical nonlinearities that originate new modes of fracture. Some isotropic materials can develop strong fracture anisotropy, which manifests as modifications of the crack path. Sideways cracking occurs when the crack deviates to propagate in the loading direction, rather than perpendicular to it. This fracture mode results from higher resistance to propagation perpendicular to the principal stretch direction. It has been argued that such fracture anisotropy is related to deformation-induced anisotropy resulting from the microstructural stretching of polymer chains and, in strain-crystallizing elastomers, strain-induced crystallization mechanisms. However, the precise variation of the fracture behavior with the degree of crosslinking remains to be understood. Leveraging experiments and computational simulations, here we show that the tendency of a crack to propagate sideways in the two component Elastosil P7670 increases with the degree of crosslinking. We explore the mixing ratio for the synthesis of the elastomer that establishes the transition from forward to sideways fracturing. To assist the investigations, we construct a novel phase-field model for fracture where the critical energy release rate is directly related to the crosslinking degree. Our results demonstrate that fracture anisotropy can be modulated during the synthesis of the polymer. Then, we propose a roadmap with composite soft structures with low and highly crosslinked phases that allow for control over fracture, arresting and/or directing the fracture. The smart combination of the phases enables soft structures with enhanced fracture tolerance and reduced stiffness. By extending our computational framework as a virtual testbed, we capture the fracture performance of the composite samples and enable predictions based on more intricate composite unit cells. Overall, our work offers promising avenues for enhancing the fracture toughness of soft polymers.

This research investigated the inhibition of *Escherichia coli* ATCC 25922 (E. coli) bacterial growth in situ, specifically on the stems and aerial parts of *Agastache mexicana* subsp. mexicana (Amm) or “purple toronjil” and on food-grade paper, both contained within Kraft paper bags with a plastic window. The qualitative phytochemical profile of an aqueous extract of Amm revealed the presence of various compounds including alkaloids, coumarins, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, triterpenes, and sterols. The results indicate that these secondary metabolites exhibit a synergistic bactericidal effect, especially when combined with temperature and starvation stress. This was quantified using a decay equation referred to as the bacterial growth inhibition profile of E. coli (BGIPEc). Calculations, which included first derivatives, gradients based on substrate effects and temperature as well as the area under the curve of BGIPEc, demonstrated that higher temperatures led to the greater inhibition of colony forming units (CFUs), further enhanced by the presence of secondary metabolites. Additionally, a shorter half-life corresponded to a faster change rate and a lower area under the curve, indicating a reduced survival rate over time. At lower temperatures, E. coli exhibited a survival effect, which was corroborated by the preceding calculations.

Abstract Farmworkers, the frontline workers of our food system, are often exposed to heat stress that is likely to increase in frequency and severity due to climate change. Irrigation can either alleviate or exacerbate heat stress, quantification of which is crucial in intensely irrigated agricultural lands such as the Imperial Valley in southern California. We investigate the impact of irrigation on wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT), a key indicator of heat exposure in humans, using a validated high-resolution Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) regional climate model, during day and night and in different seasons. We find that irrigation reduces WBGT by 0.3–1.3 °C during the daytime in summer due to strong evaporative cooling. However, during the summer nights, irrigation increases WBGT by 0.4–1.3 °C, when a large increase in humidity sufficiently raises the wet-bulb temperature. Urban and fallow areas adjacent to cropped fields also experience increased heat stress due to moisture advection from irrigated areas. Our results can inform heat-related policies in agricultural regions of California and elsewhere.

Abstract Knowing mechanisms that facilitate the emergence of post-glacial ecosystems is urgently required given rapid recent glacial retreat in high latitude and high elevation regions. We examined the effect of nutrient hotspots created via communal dung deposition by wild, native Andean camelids on soil abiotic and biotic properties and plant cover in the rapidly deglaciating Cordillera Vilcanota, southeastern Peru. Animal-modified proglacial soils were significantly enriched in all measured edaphic properties compared to reference glacial-till soils of the same age adjacent to animal-modified soil patches. Organic matter composition, soil moisture, available inorganic nitrogen, and plant cover were nearly zero in glacial-moraine reference soils, but were at least one order of magnitude greater in animal-modified soils. Likewise, DNA concentrations were almost two orders of magnitude higher in modified soils (23 ± 9 µg DNA g soil−1) compared to reference soils (0.6 ± 0.3 µg DNA g soil−1). Animal-modified soil microbial community composition differed significantly from reference soils for both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and eukaryote ASV richness was significantly higher in camelid latrines than in controls. Nutrient transfer into glacier forefields by native camelids shortcuts a 100+ year lag between glacier retreat and primary succession. Our results suggest that nutrient transfer into glacier forefields by wild, native animals may be an important, natural mechanism by which tropical Andean species can expand upslope at a pace relevant to climate change.

This paper presents the development of a software tool that implements an acquisition block for GPS signals using SDR technology, specifically devices like the HackRF One and RTL-SDR. The tool, implemented in Python, successfully detects satellites and estimates their parameters, offering customizable algorithm settings and the capability to visualize the satellite search space in three dimensions. Comparative tests with the GNSS-SDR software tool demonstrated excellent performance, providing a solid foundation for further development toward a complete SDR-based GNSS receiver. This work highlights the potential of SDR platforms for research and development, emphasizing their flexibility, potential for future upgrades, and cost-effectiveness in advancing future GNSS technologies.

Fowler syndrome is a rare entity that occurs in young women, with a high incidence of polycystic ovary syndrome. It consists of episodes of acute urinary retention that have a characteristic electromyographic pattern. Its etiology is unclear and is usually preceded by a trigger such as a surgical procedure, childbirth, other acute medical conditions, and opioid use. There is no report in the literature that links any Plastic Surgery procedure to Fowler Syndrome. We present the case of a 31-year-old female patient who had an episode of acute urinary retention 36 hours after liposculpture and augmentation mammoplasty. Infectious, anatomical and functional causes were ruled out upon admission to the emergency room, confirming the diagnosis of Fowler Syndrome. The patient was treated with bladder catheterization for 72h and tamsulosin for 15 days, with adequate response. Subsequent to this she presented a favorable evolution without new episodes of difficulty for urination, without functional sequelae or complications in the aesthetic surgical result.

Abstract Conference of Parties (COP28) emphasized the critical need to support vulnerable nations, particularly in Southeast Asia, by addressing climate change and enhancing climate finance mechanisms, which are vital for the overall well-being of their citizens. In response, we used the Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS), Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS), and Cross Sectional Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) techniques to examine the effects of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, green technology, and health expenditures on life expectancy in five Southeast Asian countries (ASEAN-5) from 1995 to 2020. Although there is a considerable body of work on the factors that affect life expectancy, this study closes a major gap in the literature by concentrating on the ASEAN-5 nations, which have not received enough attention in studies on life expectancy. Specifically, incorporating factors such as green technology, CO2 emissions, and health expenditure, which were not considered in those earlier analyses. The CS-ARDL results reveal that green technology could significantly enhance life expectancy, while CO2 emissions could have a significantly negative impact on life expectancy. The heterogeneous results of the FMOLS and DOLS also show that heightened health expenditure significantly enhances life expectancy in Thailand and the Philippines, advocating for increased investments in healthcare infrastructure. Economic expansion emerges as a significant contributor to enhanced life expectancy in Thailand, the Philippines, and Singapore, emphasizing the importance of policies fostering sustainable economic development. Notably, adopting green technology correlates positively with increased life expectancy in Singapore and the Philippines, emphasizing the dual benefits of environmentally sustainable practices. Conversely, CO2 emissions exhibit a consistent negative correlation with life expectancy across all ASEAN-5 countries, underscoring the imperative for robust environmental policies to safeguard public health. Based on the results, we recommend that policymakers in the ASEAN-5 prioritize healthcare investments and adopt sustainable economic strategies, such as promoting clean energy and circular economies. In addition, targeted incentives for green technology, including tax breaks for renewable energy investments and subsidies for carbon capture research, should also be implemented to mitigate CO2 emissions while enhancing economic resilience, public health, and life expectancy across the region.

LncRNA is a group of transcripts with a length exceeding 200 nucleotides that contribute to tumour development. Our research group found that LINC00052 expression was repressed during the formation of breast cancer (BC) multicellular spheroids. Intriguingly, LINC00052 precise role in BC remains uncertain. We explored LINC00052 expression in BC patients` RNA samples (TCGA) in silico, as well as in an in-house patient cohort, and inferred its cellular and molecular mechanisms. In vitro studies evaluated LINC00052 relevance in BC cells viability, cell cycle and DNA damage. Results. Bioinformatic RNAseq analysis of BC patients showed that LINC00052 is overexpressed in samples from all BC molecular subtypes. A similar LINC00052 expression pattern was observed in an in-house patient cohort. In addition, higher LINC00052 levels are related to better BC patient´s overall survival. Remarkably, MCF-7 and ZR-75-1 cells treated with estradiol showed increased LINC00052 expression compared to control, while these changes were not observed in MDA-MB-231 cells. In parallel, bioinformatic analyses indicated that LINC00052 influences DNA damage and cell cycle. MCF-7 cells with low LINC00052 levels exhibited increased cellular protection against DNA damage and diminished growth capacity. Furthermore, in cisplatin-resistant MCF-7 cells, LINC00052 expression was downregulated. Conclusion. This work shows that LINC00052 expression is associated with better BC patient survival. Remarkably, LINC00052 expression can be regulated by Estradiol. Additionally, assays suggest that LINC00052 could modulate MCF-7 cells growth and DNA damage repair. Overall, this study highlights the need for further research to unravel LINC00052 molecular mechanisms and potential clinical applications in BC.

Abstract Fatty acid synthase (FASN)-catalyzed endogenous lipogenesis is a hallmark of cancer metabolism. However, whether FASN is an intrinsic mechanism of tumor cell defense against T cell immunity remains unexplored. To test this hypothesis, here we combined bioinformatic analysis of the FASN-related immune cell landscape, real-time assessment of cell-based immunotherapy efficacy in CRISPR/Cas9-based FASN gene knockout (FASN KO) cell models, and mathematical and mechanistic evaluation of FASN-driven immunoresistance. FASN expression negatively correlates with infiltrating immune cells associated with cancer suppression, cytolytic activity signatures, and HLA-I expression. Cancer cells engineered to carry a loss-of-function mutation in FASN exhibit an enhanced cytolytic response and an accelerated extinction kinetics upon interaction with cytokine-activated T cells. Depletion of FASN results in reduced carrying capacity, accompanied by the suppression of mitochondrial OXPHOS and strong downregulation of electron transport chain complexes. Targeted FASN depletion primes cancer cells for mitochondrial apoptosis as it synergizes with BCL-2/BCL-XL-targeting BH3 mimetics to render cancer cells more susceptible to T-cell-mediated killing. FASN depletion prevents adaptive induction of PD-L1 in response to interferon-gamma and reduces constitutive overexpression of PD-L1 by abolishing PD-L1 post-translational palmitoylation. FASN is a novel tumor cell-intrinsic metabolic checkpoint that restricts T cell immunity and may be exploited to improve the efficacy of T cell-based immunotherapy.

This study evaluated the germination of Cinchona spp. seeds under controlled environmental conditions within a geodesic dome equipped with photovoltaic energy. The main objective was to assess how stable temperature and humidity, along with potassium nitrate (KNO3) and specific LED light treatments, affect the germination rate and plant growth. The results indicate that Cinchona spp. seeds germinate effectively inside the dome, even under temperature and humidity conditions that differ from their natural habitat. Among the evaluated conditions, the treatment with 1000 ppm of KNO3 and white LED light (LM 1000 ppm) showed the highest germination rate, achieving 72.5% with an average of 1.5 seeds germinated per day. Agronomic evaluations showed that this treatment also led to superior growth metrics, including an average plant height of 2.1 cm, an average leaf count of 3.6, and a dry weight of 0.0013 g. This research highlights the potential of controlled environments, such as geodesic domes, to optimize germination and early growth in endangered plant species. The combination of environmental control with KNO3 treatments offers a valuable approach to enhancing the propagation of Cinchona spp., providing practical implications for conservation and reforestation efforts. This work provides a foundation for further studies on optimizing germination and growth conditions for other native and endangered species in controlled environments.

Urban density significantly increases the multi-hazard risks caused by extreme weather events. In Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) countries, flood damages in urban areas are considerable and have shown a consistent annual increase. This challenge has prompted innovative educational responses to address the growing need for understanding and managing urban flood risks effectively. As part of postgraduate education efforts, the International Flood Initiative under the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme of UNESCO for the LAC region (IFI-LAC IHP-UNESCO) aims to enhance understanding of vulnerability and flood risk estimation in urban settings. The initiative encourages the development of advanced hydro-informatic tools, watershed and river modeling techniques, and scale prototype construction to foster practical learning. One of the educational approaches involves analyzing and reconstructing hydraulic infrastructure failures to provide insights into urban flood dynamics. This paper highlights the design and construction of a surface channel and a floodgate system equipped to enable controlled flash openings, capable of triggering crash waves. These facilities allow the recreation of three notable urban flood events, facilitating forensic hydraulic analysis. Detailed similitude analyses are provided, illustrating how sonic water level sensors can be effectively implemented and contributing to the understanding of flood risks and mitigation strategies in densely populated urban environments. Keywords: flood; forensic analysis; hydraulics; open channel; damage; disaster; flash flood; break wall

Abstract In recent years, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) region has faced pressing environmental concern, containing deforestation, pollution, biodiversity depletion, and increasing vulnerability to environmental change. Since many member countries depend highly on the Bay of Bengal's ecosystem for livelihoods and economic activities, addressing such environmental challenges is crucial for sustainable development. This research examines the impacts of forestry, urbanization, and financial inclusion on the load capacity factor (LCF) in the period of 2000–2022. The study seeks to understand the factors influencing regional LCF using econometric methods, such as cross-sectional dependence, slope homogeneity tests, and second-generation unit root and panel cointegration analyses. The Driscoll Kraay Standard Error (DKSE) method reveals a U-shaped connection between income and LCF, supporting hypothesis of Load Capacity Curve (LCC) in the BIMSTEC zone. The result indicates strong positive connections between forestry, urbanization, and LCF while highlighting the adverse effects of financial inclusion. Additional quantile regression (QR) analysis for validation confirms the steady U-shaped association between income and LCF across various quantiles. The result highlights the benefits of forestry and urbanization and the drawbacks of financial inclusion and population size. This study suggests promoting sustainable forestry, balanced urban development, cautious financial inclusion, and population management, providing insights for policymakers to develop strategies for resilience and prosperity in the BIMSTEC region.

Abstract Chromium contamination of water is a severe environmental problem due to the potential carcinogenicity of Cr(VI). In this work, magnetic cork powder was used as a porous material, and its removal efficiency for Cr(VI) was compared to that of natural cork powder through two mechanisms: adsorption and reduction. Adsorption isotherms and adsorption kinetics were utilized to calculate the reaction rate using a pseudo-first-order model, pseudo-second-order model, and intraparticle diffusion. After adsorption, the powder was characterized by scanning electronic microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). EDAX allowed to see a mapping distribution of Fe and Cr, and XPS revealed the presence of Cr2O3 and Cr(OH)3, confirming the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III). All the Cr was efficiently reduced and adsorbed onto the surface of the magnetic cork at 20 °C, 27 °C, and 50 °C within 120 min with stirring. The relative efficiencies to the total milligrams of added adsorbent were 98, 98.6, and 99.7 mg, respectively. This is comparable to the adsorption on the natural cork surface at the same temperatures, which measured 97.8, 98.5, and 99.6 mg, respectively, of 100 mg/L Cr(VI) solution. Furthermore, the magnetic cork offers the advantage of being removable by applying a magnetic field.

Abstract Reducing humans’ ecological footprint (ECF) is critical for guaranteeing a sustainable future and sustaining the planet's health for future generations. Consequently, sustainability policies and development aim to minimize ECF and guarantee a sustainable future. This study analyzes the effects of gross domestic product (GDP), financial development, renewable energy, share of global forest area, and technological innovations on the ECF of the Indonesian economy from 1990 to 2020. The Autoregressive Distributed Lag approach is applied to observe the varying levels of influence across variables. The findings show significant short-term links between GDP, income inequality, technological advancements, and ECF, and statistically significant long-term relationships between GDP, share of forest area, and technological innovation. The machine learning approach uses neural networks and regression as its parametric models to analyze the data for prediction. Both models can predict how the parameters interacted with ECF, with neural networks making more accurate predictions. The study reveals that economic growth intensifies ECF, whereas income equality decreases it. Technological advancements and forest expansion benefit the environment by reducing the footprint. These insights can provide policy recommendations to minimize ECF in Indonesia and strengthen the efforts to achieve a sustainable future.

Background/Objectives: The triple jump is included in the Paralympic Athletics competition. The aim of the research was to examine the relationship of the phase ratios and the inter-limb asymmetry in the spatiotemporal parameters of the approach run in Paralympic and international-level Class T46/T47 triple jumpers. Methods: Eleven Class T46/T47 male athletes were recorded during the examined competitions. Step length (SL), frequency (SF), and average velocity (ASV) for the late approach run as well as the length and the percentage distribution of each jumping phase (hop, step, jump) were measured using a panning video analysis method. The inter-limb asymmetry was estimated using the symmetry angle. Results: No significant inter-limb asymmetry was found (p > 0.05). In addition, SL, SF, and ASV were not different (p > 0.05) between the steps initiated from the ipsilateral and the contralateral leg regarding the impaired arm. However, the direction of asymmetry for SF was towards the ipsilateral leg to the impaired arm in the majority of the examined athletes. The maximum speed of the approach was correlated with the triple jump distance and the magnitude of asymmetry for AVS was correlated with the vertical take-off velocity and angle for the step. Conclusions: Since the distance of the triple jump related with the peak approach speed added the negative correlation of peak approach speed with the magnitude of the symmetry angle for SL, it is suggested to minimize the asymmetries in the step characteristics during the approach run to improve triple jump performance in Class T46/T47 jumpers.

Ceratozamia chinantlensis sp. nov., a new cliff-dwelling cycad species from Sierra de La Chinantla, Oaxaca, Mexico, is described and compared with its congeners. The species is morphologically similar to Ceratozamia zoquorum and Ceratozamia santillanii, two geographically distant species, yet it is effortlessly distinguishable from its most proximally geographic congeners. Ceratozamia chinantlensis can be recognized based on several qualitative traits, such as its very coriaceous, long, linear to oblanceolate leaflets. Also, it has bronze-colored emerging leaves and mature leaves with articulations of a light copper color. Compared with C. zoquorum and C. santillanii, C. chinantlensis has significantly longer and wider leaflets. C. chinantlensis should be considered a critically threatened species due to its limited number of populations and individuals. Habitat destruction—historically through the extraction of Dioscorea mexicana and Vanilla planifolia, along with ongoing coffee and corn plantations—is an ongoing threat that narrows its distribution range.

In the last decade, the hyperspectral imaging (HSI) method allowed performing non-invasive analysis in the field of cultural heritage. However, a considerable limitation was given by redundant and time-consuming features, with the necessary application of statistical algorithms and image-processing tools to extract relevant information. In this study, the Centro Nacional de Aceleradores (CNA) and the Group of Interdisciplinary Physics (GFI) of the School of Engineering (ETSI) of the University of Seville tested the application of three different hyperspectral cameras in the visible and near-infrared (VNIR) and short-wave infrared (SWIR) range for the investigation of an ancient painting. A reference-based procedure was realised to build a starting personal library and to evaluate the best working conditions for non-invasive and non-destructive characterisation with data treatment using the commercially available software Evince® and Specim IQ® to apply, respectively, the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) model functions and the classification method. The evaluation of the protocol was tested by acquiring complementary information by X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Ultraviolet Luminescence (UVL) imaging, and Infrared Reflectography (IRR). This exploration established a simplified protocol to analyse the large collection of paintings of the Archbishop’s Palace and the Cathedral of Seville.

Trogonidae make up a family of birds with a mixed diet composed of fruit and animal matter. However, there is little research examining the foraging ecology of Trogon citreolus in regenerating tropical forest. We studied T. citreolus abundance and diet from November 2020 to April 2022 in a regenerating dry tropical forest of Central Pacific Mexico. Also, we investigate the relationship between food availability and trogon abundance. The relative trogon abundance was 2.6 ± 2.3 individuals per point count, which varied temporally. The species consumed the fruits of 14 plant species from 10 families. The three most consumed species were Ficus cotinifolia, Comocladia engleriana, and Randia gentlei. Trogon citreolus displayed a moderate niche breadth (Best = 0. 420) whit low food diet diversity (H’ = 0.94), and the dominance of a particular type of food (λ = 0.85). Our results demonstrated a positive correlation between trogon abundance and food resource availability. The dietary breadth of T. citreolus enable the species to adapt to fluctuations in fruit availability in regenerating forests. These findings highlight the ecological importance of forest regeneration in providing food resources for T. citreolus and other frugivorous birds.

Abstract This research investigates how the USA's load capacity factor (LCF) has been impacted by trade openness, financial development, stock market capitalization, and industrialization over the period 1990–2022. This study also tests the “Load Capacity Curve (LCC)” hypothesis. Various unit root tests were conducted to determine the stationarity of the dataset, revealing that the variables are free from unit root problems and exhibit mixed orders of integration. The “Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL)” bounds test confirmed co-integration among the variables. The results from the ARDL model validated the existence of the LCC hypothesis in the USA. The findings also demonstrated that industrialization is positively correlated with LCF, whereas financial development, stock market capitalization, and trade openness are negatively correlated with LCF. To ensure the robustness of the ARDL estimations, the study also employed several regressions, all of which confirmed the validity of the ARDL results. Additionally, pairwise Granger causality tests revealed unidirectional causal relationships between GDP and LCF, stock market capitalization and LCF, and industrialization and LCF, while no causal relationships were found between financial development and LCF and trade openness and LCF. The findings advocate that the USA should advance eco-friendly industrial practices to ensure environmental sustainability, alongside regulated financial markets and institutions that mandate the utilization of green investments.

Abstract Background Progressive hearing loss is a common problem in the human population with no effective therapeutics currently available. However, it has a strong genetic contribution, and investigating the genes and regulatory interactions underlying hearing loss offers the possibility of identifying therapeutic candidates. Mutations in regulatory genes are particularly useful for this, and an example is the microRNA miR-96, a post-transcriptional regulator which controls hair cell maturation. Mice and humans carrying mutations in miR-96 all exhibit hearing impairment, in homozygosis if not in heterozygosis, but different mutations result in different physiological, structural and transcriptional phenotypes. Methods Here we present our characterisation of two lines of mice carrying different human mutations knocked-in to Mir96. We have carried out auditory brainstem response tests to examine their hearing with age and after noise exposure and have used confocal and scanning electron microscopy to examine the ultrastructure of the organ of Corti and hair cell synapses. Bulk RNA-seq was carried out on the organs of Corti of postnatal mice, followed by bioinformatic analyses to identify candidate targets. Results While mice homozygous for either mutation are profoundly deaf from 2 weeks old, the heterozygous phenotypes differ markedly, with only one mutation resulting in hearing impairment in heterozygosis. Investigations of the structural phenotype showed that one mutation appears to lead to synaptic defects, while the other has a much more severe effect on the hair cell stereociliary bundles. Transcriptome analyses revealed a wide range of misregulated genes in both mutants which were notably dissimilar. We used the transcriptome analyses to investigate candidate therapeutics, and tested one, finding that it delayed the progression of hearing loss in heterozygous mice. Conclusions Our work adds further support for the importance of the gain of novel targets in microRNA mutants and offers a proof of concept for the identification of pharmacological interventions to maintain hearing.

The dynamics of an ordinary differential equations (ODEs) system modelling the interaction of four species (one prey or resource population, two mesopredator populations, and one super-predator population) was analyzed. It was assumed that the functional responses for each interaction were general. We showed parameter conditions that ensured that the differential system underwent a supercritical Hopf bifurcation or a Bogdanov-Takens bifurcation, from which the coexistence of the four species was guaranteed. In addition, the results were illustrated by several applications, where the prey had a logistic growth rate. For the interaction of the mesopredators and prey, we considered classical Holling-type functional responses, and for the rest of the interactions, we proposed certain generalized functional responses similar to the well-known "Beddington-DeAngelis" or "Crowley-Martin" functional responses. At the end, some numerical simulations were given.

El impacto macroeconómico es crucial para determinar el bienestar de un país. Analizar variables como el Producto Interno Bruto (PIB), la inflación, el desempleo, la inversión y el comercio exterior permite evaluar la salud económica y estabilidad financiera de una nación. El presente articulo busca analizar el impacto de la dolarización en Ecuador entre 2006 y 2023. Adoptada en 2000 para estabilizar la economía y atraer inversión extranjera, la dolarización presentó desafíos en términos de política monetaria y fiscal. Autores como Cachanosky y Alvarado destacan los retos en el control fiscal y la relación entre exportaciones e ingreso externo. El estudio utiliza una metodología cuantitativa, con análisis de regresión y series temporales basadas en datos del Banco Central del Ecuador. Los resultados muestran un crecimiento moderado del PIB y de la inversión bruta, pero también fluctuaciones en la liquidez y el crédito al sector privado, junto con una persistente desigualdad en la distribución del ingreso. Las conclusiones señalan que, aunque la dolarización ha aportado estabilidad, ha limitado la autonomía monetaria del país. Además, la dependencia de factores externos, como la política monetaria de Estados Unidos, ha afectado la estabilidad económica de Ecuador. Se subraya la importancia de diversificar la economía y promover políticas que fomenten un crecimiento sostenible y equitativo, reduciendo la vulnerabilidad frente a fluctuaciones externas.

Abstract Background The use of peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICCs) has increased worldwide in the last decade. However, PICCs are associated to catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) and central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs). We describe the characteristics of patients requiring a PICC, estimate the incidence rate, and identify potential risk factors of PICC-related complications. Methods All adult patients requiring a PICC at our institution (Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, Bogota, Colombia) from September 2022 to May 2024 were included in the analysis. The database from active PICC monitoring collected demographic and PICC-related information. The incidence rate of CLABSI and CRT, and crude odds ratios (cORs) were estimated. Results Overall, 1936 individuals were included in the study. The median age was 67 years (IQR: 50–78 years), and 51.5% were females. The median duration of PICC lines was 10 days (IQR: 4–17). Seventy-nine patients had catheter-related complications, mostly in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The CLABSI and CRT institutional incidence rates per 1000 catheter-days were 2.03 (2.96 in the ICU) and 0.58 (0.61 in the ICU), respectively. Prolonged catheter use (≥ 6 days), PICC insertion in the intensive care unit, and postoperative care after cardiac surgery were identified as potential risk factors for CLABSI, while a catheter insertion into the brachial vein was associated with CRT. Conclusion Daily PICC assessment, particularly in patients with prolonged catheter use, PICC insertion into the brachial vein, or in postoperative care after cardiac surgery may significantly reduce CLABSI and CRT cases. Implementing Vascular Access Teams, venous catheter care bundles, and institutional insertion protocols optimize clinical outcomes.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Valorar si en nuestra población los factores de riesgo cardiovascular (FRCV) se correlacionan con la severidad de la COVID-19 en pacientes hospitalizados. Material y Métodos: Estudio de cohortes retrospectivo de pacientes con COVID-19 ingresados entre los meses de abril y diciembre del 2020 en un centro terciario en el sur de España. Se valoró la asociación entre los FRCV y la severidad del SARS-COV2. Se consideró como COVID severo aquel que ingresó en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos (UCI) o que falleció. Resultados: Se analizaron 608 pacientes ingresados con diagnóstico de neumonía por COVID-19, la mediana de edad fue de 73 años (RIC: 64-81) años. Los pacientes fueron predominantemente varones (55,8%). La hipertensión arterial fue el FRCV más común (83,7%), seguido de la dislipemia (50,2%), diabetes (43,1%), obesidad (32,9%) y tabaquismo (15,6%). Durante la estancia un total del 25,8% de los pacientes tuvieron un pronóstico desfavorable: un 7,9% precisó ingreso en UCI y un 22,9% fallecieron. En el análisis multivariante resultaron variables independientes para padecer un COVID severo el género masculino (OR: 1,697; IC 95%: 1,138-2,532), la edad avanzada (OR: 1,697; IC 95%: 1,138-2,532), y la obesidad (OR: 1,634; IC95%: 1,370-1,947). Conclusión. Existe una gran prevalencia de FRCV en los pacientes ingresados por COVID 19 de nuestra población. La obesidad, junto con la edad avanzada y el género masculino se asocian con una mayor gravedad y mortalidad hospitalaria en los pacientes ingresados con SARS-CoV 2. ABSTRACT Objective: To assess whether cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF) are correlated with the severity of COVID-19 in hospitalized patients in our population. Material and Methods: Retrospective cohort study of patients with COVID-19 admitted between the months of April and December 2020 in a tertiary center in southern Spain. The association between CVRF and the severity of SARS-COV2 was assessed. Severe COVID was considered to be one who was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or who died. Results: 608 patients admitted with a diagnosis of COVID-19 pneumonia were analyzed, the median age was 73 years (IQR: 64-81) years. The patients were predominantly male (55.8%). Hypertension was the most common CVRF (83.7%), followed by dyslipidemia (50.2%), diabetes mellitus (43.1%), obesity (32.9%), and smoking (15.6%). During the stay, a total of 25.8% of the patients had an unfavorable prognosis: 22.9% died and 7.9% required admission in the ICU. In the multivariate analysis, significant independent variables were found for suffering from severe COVID: male sex (OR: 1,697; IC 95%: 1,138-2,532), age (OR: 1.697; CI 95%: 1,138-2,532), and obesity (OR: 1,634; 95% CI: 1,370-1,947). Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of CVRF in patients hospitalized for COVID 19 in our population. Obesity, along with older age and male gender, are associated with greater severity and hospital mortality in patients admitted with SARS-CoV-2

Abstract Background The LYP tyrosine phosphatase presents a SNP (1858C > T) that increases the risk of developing autoimmune diseases such as type I diabetes and arthritis. It remains unclear how this SNP affects LYP function and promotes the development of these diseases. The scarce information about LYP substrates is in part responsible for the poor understanding of LYP function. Results In this study, we identify in T lymphocytes several adaptor proteins as potential substrates targeted by LYP, including FYB, SLP-76, HS-1, Vav, SKAP1 and SKAP2. We also show that LYP co-localizes with SLP76 in microclusters, upon TCR engagement. Conclusions These data indicate that LYP may modulate T cell activation by dephosphorylating several adaptor proteins, such as FYB, SLP-76, HS-1, Vav, SKAP1 and SKAP2 upon TCR engagement.

Study region: This review examines seawater intrusion in Mexico's coastal aquifers. Study focus: The review synthesizes current knowledge on seawater intrusion in Mexican coastal aquifers, documented since the 1980s. The study shows case studies including the extent of seawater intrusion, driving forces, and mitigation strategies. It reviews the commonly used approaches of seawater intrusion assessment in Mexico. The study discusses how climate change and sea level rise impact coastal groundwater resources. New hydrological insights for the region: Seawater intrusion has been documented in Mexican coastal states since the 1970s. Researchers focused on the Baja California Peninsula, Sonora, and the Yucatán Peninsula. Groundwater analysis reveals diverse intrusion patterns, with below-sea-level water tables extending up to 60 km inland and depths reaching −100 m in Sonora, while the Yucatán Peninsula maintains water tables above sea level. Each region presents distinct research priorities: Baja California faces severe water scarcity due to its arid climate, prompting strategies for water allocation and conservation; Baja California Sur emphasizes climate change impacts on water systems; Sonora's diverse geology necessitates advanced hydrogeological analysis to understand groundwater flow; and Quintana Roo faces heightened vulnerability to sea-level rise, particularly in tourist and ecological zones. This synthesis of seawater intrusion highlights the role of climate change, which directly links to human-induced pressures. The findings offer insights into coastal regions worldwide grappling with similar challenges from climate change and increasing water demand.

This study examines the factors driving municipal solid waste generation in 33 European countries from 1995 to 2021. Using the STIRPAT model, the research assesses the influence of economic and environmental variables on municipal solid waste generation, analyzing data on Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Research and Development expenditure, tourism, trade volume, renewable energy adoption, and service sector growth. To count for cross-sectional dependence in the data, the study employs Driscoll Kraay Standard Error and performs quantile regression as a robustness test to capture variations across different levels of municipal solid waste generation. The findings reveal a positive relationship between GDP, the service sector, and municipal waste, indicating that economic growth and expansion in European countries increase waste. Conversely, tourism, trade, and renewable energy adoption negatively correlate with municipal waste, suggesting these factors can reduce waste. The study offers policy recommendations for European policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to develop effective and sustainable waste management strategies, contributing to Europe's broader goal of environmental sustainability.

BackgroundPsoriasis is an inflammatory disease primarily treated through molecular-targeted therapies. However, emerging evidence suggests that dietary interventions may also play a role in managing inflammation associated with this condition. The Mediterranean diet (MedDiet), prevalent in southern European countries, has been widely recognized for its ability to reduce cardiovascular mortality, largely due to its anti-inflammatory properties. This anti-inflammatory potential has prompted interest in exploring the MedDiet’s role in immune-mediated diseases, including psoriasis. Observational studies have indicated potential benefits, such as reductions in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index. However, there is a need for well-designed clinical trials to address the methodological limitations of these studies and to establish specific dietary recommendations for psoriasis. ObjectiveThis study aims to evaluate the impact of an intensive dietary intervention based on the MedDiet in patients with psoriasis. The study will assess the effects of this intervention on skin involvement, metabolic parameters, and inflammatory cytokines. In addition, the emotional well-being and quality of life of participants will be evaluated using validated questionnaires. A methodological analysis will also be conducted to enhance the design of future large-scale clinical trials. MethodsAn open-label, single-blinded (evaluator) randomized controlled trial was designed to assess the impact of a high-intensity MedDiet intervention in patients with mild-to-moderate psoriasis. A total of 38 patients will be randomly assigned into 2 groups—an intervention group receiving the MedDiet intervention and a control group receiving standard care. The intervention group will participate in dietary education sessions aimed at adopting the MedDiet over 4 months, with monthly monitoring by experienced nutritionists. Participants will receive 500 mL of extra virgin olive oil per week, along with informative materials, recipes, and weekly menus. In contrast, the control group will receive standard low-fat diet recommendations without nutritionist monitoring. All participants will undergo a baseline visit, a 2-month follow-up visit, and a final visit at 4 months. Blood tests will be conducted at the beginning and end of the study. This study protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Hospital Ramón y Cajal (Madrid) in July 2023. ResultsEnrollment concluded in October 2024, with data collection set to finish by February 2025. The findings will be presented at national and international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals. ConclusionsThis protocol outlines the design of a clinical trial that implements the MedDiet in patients with psoriasis to evaluate its benefits on skin involvement, systemic inflammation, and quality of life. Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT06257641; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06257641 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)DERR1-10.2196/64277

Accurate and efficient diagnosis of schizophrenia remains a critical challenge in clinical neuroscience. This study presents a novel approach leveraging complex network analysis and Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) applied to electroencephalogram (EEG) data for the diagnosis of schizophrenia. EEG, due to its high versatility and low cost, offers significant potential for widespread clinical application. Utilizing a rigorously validated dataset comprising 28 subjects—14 diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and 14 healthy controls—we achieved a classification accuracy of 93%. The methodology emphasizes computational efficiency, scalability, and flexibility, making it a promising tool for clinical applications. The findings demonstrate the potential of integrating advanced signal processing techniques with machine learning algorithms to advance psychiatric diagnostics.

This research delves into the dynamics influencing the academic performance of undergraduate students in Malaysian universities, specifically examining the role of self-esteem, sense of purpose, time management, sleep quality, and class attendance. With a calculated sample size of 384 obtained from purposive sampling, the study reveals compelling insights. This study aims to determine how students perform in university and what factors contribute the most to their academic performance. The findings underscore the significant influence of self-esteem, sense of purpose, and class attendance on academic performance. These results illuminate the relationship between psychological and behavioral factors in shaping students' success in the academic sphere. Understanding how these variables relate to academic outcomes provides educators and institutions with valuable information for tailoring support mechanisms and interventions to enhance students' overall educational experience. In the unique context of Malaysian universities, this research contributes to the broader discourse on factors that contribute to or hinder academic performance among undergraduate students.

Forage production is a major challenge in the Salado River basin, Argentina (also denominated “Flooding Pampas”), the largest livestock raising area. The successful naturalization of the European legume Lotus tenuis (native from Mediterranean area) has been of productive and environmental relevance to the region. The main objective of this work was to quantify the efficiency of L. tenuis through its ability to fix nitrogen biologically and thus strengthening their strategic role in the region. The 15N natural abundance method was used to evaluate the Biological Nitrogen Fixation (BNF) of L. tenuis in soil plots. Non-leguminous weed species in the same plots were utilized as reference plants. Simultaneously, evaluations were carried out in the greenhouse and the relative reproducibility of the field experiments. The results showed that L. tenuis promotion was accompanied by an increase in forage quality improving the Crude Protein (CP) content and the Digestibility of Dry Matter (DDM). Moreover, its contribution to N inputs to the system through BNF in symbiosis with native rhizobia was about 80%, a highly relevant percentage for these constrained agroecosystems where the presence of native legumes is very scarce. In conclusion, this study supports the hypothesis that L. tenuis promotion plays a strategic role in ecosystem sustainability in the Salado River basin, especially in soil constrained areas. Together with previously published data, including information on ruminant management, the results obtained contribute to supporting the idea that the naturalized legume plays a strategic role in the sustainability of marginal agricultural soils.

This research examines the environmental sustainability dynamics of BRICS countries from 1996 to 2022, focusing on governance, democracy, industrialization, and urbanization's impact on the Load Capacity Factor (LCF). Using the Panel Mean Group Autoregressive Distributed Lag (PMG-ARDL) model, the study validates findings with fully modified OLS (FMOLS) and Common Correlated Effects (CCR) methodologies. Results indicate a positive, statistically significant relationship between the governance index and LCF, suggesting effective governance enhances environmental sustainability. In contrast, democracy, industrialization, and urbanization negatively affect LCF, implying these factors strain resources and hinder sustainability. Strengthening governance and sustainable development policies can mitigate these adverse effects, promoting a resilient future for BRICS countries.

La gestión de residuos alimenticios es un reto global con implicaciones sociales, económicas y ambientales. La optimización de rutas de recolección es una estrategia clave para mejorar la eficiencia en su manejo. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo analizar la eficiencia en la recolección de residuos alimenticios en establecimientos de Riobamba, Ecuador, evaluando el impacto en la reducción de tiempos y distancias recorridas a través del método de optimización de rutas Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP), con miras a fomentar una gestión de residuos más sostenible y alineada con los principios de la economía circular. Se evaluó un total de 26 establecimientos analizando la ruta original (RO) y tres rutas optimizadas: más corta (RMC), más rápida (RMR) y más rápida con tráfico (RMRT), mediante un enfoque cuantitativo y pruebas estadísticas no paramétricas (Shapiro-Wilk, Levene, Kruskal-Wallis y post-hoc de Dunn) usando el software R. Los resultados mostraron diferencias significativas en las medianas de los tiempos (chi-cuadrado=11.1308, p=0.01104), y el análisis post-hoc de Dunn reveló que la RO difiere significativamente de las rutas optimizadas (RMC: p = 0.0034; RMR: p = 0.002210; RMRT: p = 0.046415). Los resultados demostraron que la implementación del método VRP optimizó notablemente las rutas, mejorando la eficiencia operativa y reduciendo la huella ambiental, destacando su potencial como herramienta para la gestión sostenible de residuos.

ABSTRACT This case report explores the management of a 56‐year‐old female oncology patient presenting with acute ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and an incidental atrial septal defect (ASD). The patient, with a history of rectal cancer and hypothyroidism, experienced acute chest pain and dyspnea. She was diagnosed with an inferior STEMI and underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with the placement of three medicated stents in the right coronary artery. During hospitalization, an echocardiogram revealed a significant ostium secundum ASD. Angiography indicated thrombi, suggesting a potential paradoxical embolism. Percutaneous ASD closure was performed during the same hospital stay, leading to a favorable clinical course without immediate complications. This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach and comprehensive evaluation in managing complex cardiovascular conditions, particularly in patients with increased thrombotic risk due to malignancy.

La pintura ayacuchana de género figura humana tiene un desarrollo significativo en aspectos compositivos y estilísticos, la Escuela de Bellas Artes Felipe Guamán Poma de Ayala ha jugado un papel muy importante en este proceso de adaptación, aprendizaje y autenticidad, teniendo como modelos académicos a Escuelas de Arte nacionales e internacionales, de esa manera se visualiza una pintura de corte tradicional y figurativa, a pesar de los cambios sociales, científicos y tecnológicos. La representación pictórica del varón y mujer andina es amplia y dinámica, están insertadas dentro de las composiciones que expresan tradición y costumbres de un contexto cambiante; en ese sentido, surge la siguiente pregunta: ¿Qué simbologías emplea la pintura ayacuchana de genero figura humana en la actualidad? Para responder se procederá a describir y análisis diversas obras desde una condición iconográfica e iconológica, de esa manera determinar la siguiente hipótesis: La pintura ayacuchana figura humana representa sus tradiciones y costumbres de manera simbólica y se denomina “Estética contemporánea andina”.

El compostaje es el proceso de descomposición de los residuos sólidos orgánicos por poblaciones mixtas de microorganismos en condiciones controladas. El objetivo de esta investigación es evaluar el efecto de la adición de microorganismo eficientes en diferentes dosis y la dinámica de sus propiedades físicas y químicas durante todo el proceso de compostaje. Se evaluaron cuatro tratamientos T1 (0L EM/5L H2O), T2 (0.1L EM/5L H2O), T3 (0.5L EM/5L H2O), T4 (1L EM/5L H2O) con 110 días de duración. Los resultados mostraron que el control de temperatura evidencia que el tratamiento con mayor dosis de microrganismo eficientes se mantuvo mayor tiempo en la fase termófila a diferencia del tratamiento testigo (T1) por lo tanto una mayor higienización, en cuanto al pH los tratamientos empiezan con un pH ligeramente ácido y posteriormente aumentan hasta 9-10 para luego descender hasta valores de 9-8 en los tratamientos de T2, T3 y T4. Para la CE los tratamientos T1, T2 y T3 presentan valores superiores a los 5.00 dS m-1, sin embargo, en el tratamiento T4 se presenta valores de 4.78 dS m-1 por lo que se encontraría dentro del rango aceptable por diferentes normativas. En cuanto al carbono orgánico total (COT), se evidencia un mayor porcentaje de mineralización del tratamiento T4 y en menor porcentaje del T1 con respecto al carbono inicial. Para el caso del nitrógeno total se evidencia un ascenso de los tratamientos T2, T3 y T4 con inoculante microbiano por encima del tratamiento testigo atribuyendo eso a las bacterias fijadoras de nitrógeno presentes en los microrganismos eficientes. Finalmente, se puede evidenciar que las emisiones de CO2 son un parámetro importante para identificar la actividad biológica y la estabilidad del compost, así también las emisiones de CO2 producida por la trasformación de COT es directamente proporcional a la temperatura. Esto demuestra que la incorporación de microorganismos eficientes beneficia los procesos de compostaje causando mayor actividad biológica en consecuencia; aumento de temperatura para una adecuada higienización, un incremento del porcentaje de mineralización del COT, mejora de las condiciones de pH y conductividad, una crecida del porcentaje de nitrógeno total y la estabilidad del compost final.

Brucellosis and Q fever are two bacterial zoonoses caused by Brucella spp. and Coxiella burnetii, respectively. Dogs are reservoirs of these pathogens and play an important role in their spread. In this research, we determined the seroprevalence of antibodies against Brucella spp. and C. burnetii in free-roaming dogs from Ecuador and conducted a statistical analysis based on geographical variables. Serum samples were collected from 397 free-roaming dogs between November 2018 and May 2019 and analyzed with commercial ELISA tests for Brucella spp. and Q fever. An overall seroprevalence of 2.8 % (CI: 95 %, 0.0–6.2 %) and 1.8 % (CI: 95 %, 0.0–5.6 %) was found for Brucella spp. and C. burnetii, respectively. No statistical differences in seroprevalence values were found between geographical regions in Ecuador or between dogs from rural or urban settings, except for the association of C. burnetii infection with the Coastal Region. This is the first study of this kind in Ecuador and points out the need for a One Health approach for control and surveillance of zoonotic diseases like brucellosis and Q fever including feral and stray dogs as reservoirs to spread those pathogens to cattle, humans, or wildlife.

The rise in global temperatures, driven by increased CO2 levels, is a pressing concern. Developing nations like Malaysia face challenges in transitioning to cleaner energy due to resource constraints, making natural gas a crucial transitional solution. This study introduces the Fuel Switch Variable to analyze the impact of shifting fuel consumption patterns on CO2. Using data from 1980 to 2020 and the ARDL model, findings show that policies promoting natural gas over oil and coal reduce CO2 emissions, while economic and population growth increase emissions. Policymakers should incentivize fuel switching, enforce energy efficiency standards, and invest in new technologies.

Introduction The current gold standard treatment for patients with orofacial clefts is surgical repair of the palatal defect (uranostaphylorrhaphy), which is associated with growth defects and hypoplasia of the maxillofacial structures. This trial aims to evaluate the potential of a bioengineered artificial palate mucosa, created through tissue engineering with autologous stromal and epithelial cells and nanostructured fibrin–agarose biomaterials, to enhance treatment outcomes for patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate.Methods and analysis This phase I-IIa clinical trial aims to evaluate the feasibility and biosafety of a procedure involving grafting bioartificial palate mucosa onto the areas of denudated bone in patients undergoing uranostaphylorrhaphy. The control patients will undergo standard surgical treatment. Five patients will be included in the first biosafety phase. In the second phase, 10 patients will be randomly assigned to the intervention or control group (1:1). The intervention group will undergo standard surgical treatment followed by the application of autologous bioartificial palate mucosa. Feasibility will be analysed at the time of surgery. Nine postimplant visits will be scheduled over a 2-year follow-up period, in which local and systemic biosafety will be investigated by determining graft evolution, including signs of necrosis, rejection, inflammation and patient factors. Preliminary signs of efficiency will be explored by sequentially evaluating craniomaxillofacial development, hearing impairment, speech capability and quality of life of the family. The research will be published in journals and posted in the relevant repositories when available.Ethics and dissemination This study has been approved by the Committee of Ethics in Research with Medicinal Products (CEIm) and authorised by the Spanish Medicines Agency (AEMPS). The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration number NCT06408337; ClinicalTrials.gov: EuclinicalTrials. eu: 2023-506913-23-00.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of e-commerce among Peruvian small and medium enterprises (SMEs), prompting a sudden shift from traditional physical marketplaces to online sales. Before the pandemic, many businesses were beginning to adopt ICTs but only 8.1 % were selling their products and services online. The study aims to analyze the determinants of online sales in Peruvian SMEs in 2019, and the factors that contributed to the rise in online sales during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Peruvian National Enterprise Survey 2019 was used to evaluate the e-commerce adoption behavior of SMEs during 2019 and 2020. To analyze the determinants and factors, Heckman two step model was employed. The findings revealed that digital readiness was crucial for adopting online sales, but not significant for scaling sales during the pandemic; the rise in sales during the social lock-down period necessitated the implementation of a unique product delivery approach many times using own vehicle and bearing in mind informal competition. In essence, digital readiness played a critical role in enabling Peruvian SMEs to adopt online sales, but its impact was limited when it came to scaling sales during the pandemic. This research contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities faced by SMEs in a developing economy during a global crisis. The implication of this study highlights the need for CEOs at SMEs to prioritize digital readiness, as well as rebuild from the economic impacts of any crisis.

Objetivo: Determinar la liberación de Aluminio (Al) a partir de la formulación química de los selladores biocerámicos Bio C Sealer, AHPlus Biocerámico y BiolineSealer Z. Materiales y métodos: Se prepararon cinco (n=5) muestras de cada uno de los materiales y se determinó el contenido de Al liberado mediante Espectrometría de masa con plasma inductivo acoplado ICP-MS. Los resultados se analizaron mediante ANOVA y la prueba de comparación múltiple de Tukey con un nivel de significación de P0,05). Conclusiones: La proporción de Al liberado por los selladores biocerámicos analizados (0,04 mg/g para BioC Sealer y BiolineSealer Z y 0,0012 mg/g para AHPlus Biocerámico) fue significativamente menor a la ingesta media diaria de un individuo adulto, por lo que no representaría un riesgo biológico para su uso clínico en humanos.

Leptospirosis is a neglected zoonotic disease that is endemic in tropical regions, including Ecuador. It is caused by spirochetes of the genus Leptospira, which can infect humans through animal reservoirs such as rats and dogs, or through contact with contaminated water or soil. In March 2023, public health authorities declared a concerning outbreak of leptospirosis in Durán Cantón, located in the Coastal region of Ecuador. For the first time in the country, a multidisciplinary approach involving physicians and veterinarians was implemented for the surveillance and management of this leptospirosis outbreak. A total of 335 samples were collected, including suspected human cases, household contacts, household dogs, synanthropic rats, and water samples within the area of human cases. Samples were processed by qPCR targeting lipL32, secY, and rrs fragment genes and characterized further for Sanger sequencing. Overall, 26.2 % of human samples, 43.8 % of dog samples, 38.5 % of rat samples, and 39.4 % of water samples tested positive for Leptospira. Further, phylogenetic analysis shows that human, dog, and rat sequences are clustered within the pathogenic subclade P1, within the branch of L. kirschneri and L. interrogans. This study is the first of its kind in Ecuador, where an ongoing outbreak of leptospirosis was managed in real-time by using molecular diagnosis and not serological tools, and where the epidemiological surveillance was done following a One Health approach. This experience should inspire public and animal health authorities in Ecuador to promote a national One Health surveillance and control program for zoonotic diseases.