Cogging torque is a pulsating, parasitic and undesired torque ripple intrinsic of the design of a permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG), which should be minimized due to its adverse effects: vibration and noise. In addition, as aerodynamic power is low during start-up at low wind speeds in small wind energy systems, the cogging torque must be as low as possible to achieve a low cut-in speed. A novel mitigation technique using compound pre-slotting, based on a combination of magnetic and non-magnetic materials, is investigated. The finite element technique is used to calculate the cogging torque of a real PMSG design for a small wind turbine, with and without using compound pre-slotting. The results show that cogging torque can be reduced by a factor of 48% with this technique, while avoiding the main drawback of the conventional pre-slotting technique: the reduction of induced voltage due to leakage flux between stator teeth. Furthermore, through a combination of pre-slotting and other cogging torque optimization techniques, 84%, cogging torque can be eliminated for a given design.

In this paper, based on the cumulated damage generated by the cyclical application of the testing vibration profile, a methodology to determine the reliability index of the analyzed component is given. In the analysis, the testing time, component geometry, applied weight, and material resonant frequency are all of them considered by using a dynamic, and amplitude factor. Then, from the generated vibration response data of the analysis, the corresponding bending stress is determined for each one of the rows of the testing profile. And by the cyclical application of the whole testing profile, the corresponding damage is cumulated to each profile cycle until the cumulated damage is D=1. Finally, the reliability that each one of the cumulated blocks (cyclical profile application) is determined by considering, the random vibration is a stress variable. Thus, we use the cumulative damage model with the inverse power law stress/life relationship to determine the two parameter Weibull distribution used to estimate the reliability index of each cumulated block. As a numerical application, we analyze a cantilever aluminum beam Al 6061-T6.

Commuting to work by private vehicle is one of the main sources of air pollution in cities, mainly from NO2 and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). With the spread of telework, traffic congestion during peak hours is reduced on certain days of the week, improving air quality. This study an-alyzes the relationship between the improvement of air quality improvement and urban traffic resulting from teleworking activities after the COVID-19 pandemic in Madrid, Spain. The article considers road traffic and teleworking before the COVID-19 pandemic (2018 and 2019), during the pandemic (2020 and 2021) and in the period after (2022 and 2023) in the city center and the in-fluence on certain environmental factors. Daily NO2, PM2.5, PM10, and O3 concentration data were collected at air quality stations in Madrid municipality, traffic data and some meteorological variables such as wind speed, precipitation and temperature were considered. When conducting correlation and regression analysis among the variables it shows a clear association between NO2 and traffic before the pandemic, which is lower for both PM and O3. This correlation was main-tained during the pandemic, except for O3, whose association increased during this period and then decreased in the later period due to various motives. These results seem to indicate the ex-istence of a relevant relationship between urban mobility and air quality and an especially rele-vant relationship with telework, suggesting the need for policies aimed at promoting sustainable mobility in the future.

The present study showcases a series of crystallization experiments using a specially designed double diffusion system to grow crystals belonging to the calcium carbonate-phosphate system. The experimental U-shaped device comprised two vertical solution containers, separated by a horizontal column of silica hydrogel. Each container was filled with 0.5 M CaCl2 and 0.5 M Na2CO3 solutions, which diffused through the gel column over time. Na3PO4 solutions, with 50 and 500 ppm concentrations, were incorporated into the gel in different experiments, resulting in a homogeneous distribution of phosphate concentrations within the diffusion column. After 15 and 30 days incubation period post-nucleation, the crystals formed in different sections of the gel were carefully extracted and studied with scanning electron microscopy and electron microprobe. Additionally, Raman spectra were collected from the samples using a confocal Raman microscope, providing further insights into their molecular composition and structural properties. The obtained results show that under the induced experimental conditions (i) phosphate incorporates into calcite´s structure, and (ii) the growth of calcium phosphates in the presence of carbonate ions involves the sequential, heterogeneous nucleation of CO3-bearing OCP/HAP-like phases with Raman spectral characteristics very similar to those of bioapatites.

Using the senses is essential to interact with objects in real-world environments. However, not all the senses are available when interacting with virtual objects in virtual environments. This paper presents a diamond methodology to fuse two technologies to represent the senses of sight and touch when interacting with a virtual object. The sense of sight is represented through augmented reality, and the sense of touch is represented through kinesthetic haptics. The diamond methodology is centered on the user experience and comprises five general stages: Experience design, Sensory representation, Development, Display, and Fusion. The first stage comes from the expected, proposed, or needed user experience. Then, each technology takes its homologous activities from the second to the fourth stage, diverging from each other along their development. Finally, the technologies converge to the fifth and final stage for fusion in the user experience. The diamond methodology was tested by generating a user's dual sensation when interacting with the elasticity of a tension virtual spring. The user can simultaneously perceive the visual and tactile change of the virtual spring during the interaction, representing the object's deformation. The experimental results demonstrated that an interactive experience can be felt and seen in augmented reality following the diamond methodology.

Automatic emotion recognition using portable sensors is gaining attention due to its potential use in real-life scenarios. Existing studies have not explored Galvanic Skin Response and Photoplethysmography sensors exclusively for emotion recognition using nonlinear features with machine learning (ML) classifiers such as Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, Gradient Boosting Machine, K-Nearest Neighbor, and Decision Tree. In this study, we proposed a genuine window sensitivity analysis on a continuous annotation dataset to determine the window duration and percentage of overlap that optimize the classification performance using ML algorithms and nonlinear features, namely Lyapunov Exponent, Approximate Entropy, and Poincaré’s indices. We found an optimum window duration of 11 seconds and 16 seconds for valence and arousal, respectively, with 50% overlap, and achieved an accuracy of 0.76 in both dimensions. In addition, we proposed a Strong Labeling Scheme that kept only the extreme values of the labels, which raised the accuracy score to 0.92. Under certain conditions mentioned, traditional ML models offer a good compromise between performance and low computational cost. Our results suggest that well-known ML algorithms can still contribute to the field of emotion recognition, provided that window duration, overlap percentage, and nonlinear features are carefully selected.

We are experiencing an unprecedented urbanization process that alongside with physical, social and economic developments is having a significant impact on population’s health. Due to higher apprehensions of pollution, violence and poverty, our modern cities no longer ensure a good quality of life so they become unhealthy environments. This study aims to measure the socio-environmental and hematologic profile of residents of Santo André’s landfill – “Bairro Espírito Santo” by using the contextualization of the studied area. The research method is Observational type and from Retrospective cohort and by convenience sampling in Santo André in the Greater ABC region. The study determined a socio environmental profile and the hematologic diseases screening related to a close location to the landfill. The disease manifests itself within a broad spectrum of symptoms that causes changes in blood count parameters. The full blood counts analysis was performed, indicating that the blood counts of residents living near the landfill led to positive hematological changes and diseases like Leukopenia, Anemia, Neutropenia and lymphocytosis were the most common changes. However it is considered that the proof of the relation of cause- effect to environmental exposures that may trigger chronic manifestations in humans requires specific studies that are often complicated.

The emergence of superhydrophobicity-based antibacterial materials represents a promising approach to upholding surface cleanliness and hygiene, effectively preventing bacterial adhesion. This research describes the synthesis of a superhydrophobic coating with antibacterial and bacteriostatic properties using silica nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) modified with 1H,1H,2H,2H-Perfluorodecyltriethoxysilane (PFDTES). TEM, XRD, EDS, SEM, and FTIR analyses were conducted to study its morphology and surface characterization. Additionally, the coating was applied on glass substrates using the spray coating method, varying the number of layers to evaluate antibacterial and bacteriostatic properties through turbidimetry and inhibition halo measurement techniques. The durability of the coatings was also assessed by exposing them to outdoor conditions for 35 days. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial capacity of the superhydrophobic coating and its weather resistance. The results demonstrate that a superhydrophobic coating with a contact angle ≥150° and a sliding angle ≤10° was successfully synthesized using SiO2 NPs smaller than 10 nm modified with PFDTES. The coating exhibited the ability to inhibit bacterial growth by preventing the adhesion of bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus; moreover, the number of layers correlated with enhanced antibacterial properties. The coating also showed good durability under outdoor conditions. These results support the potential application of superhydrophobic coatings to prevent these bacteria from adhering and growing in areas where they can be harmful.

Industry 4.0 (i4.0) is one of the fields of knowledge that is most extensively researched recently and whose definition is the most controversial, and Latin America (LatAm) is no exception. Identifying the LatAm countries and institutions with the highest degree of innovation and global impact in the i4.0 field. New citation micro-topics were used to identify the thematic domain: 4.224.1040 Industry 4.0. Difference indicators were extracted from Web of Science, Journal Citation Reports and especially Incites. Broadly speaking, the LatAm effort rate in i4.0 is high, as well as its global impact. The main countries are, in decreasing order, Brazil and Mexico. These countries show a high number of industry collaborations, and Brazil boasts many patent citations. Spain is a key partner of Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Cuba and Ecuador. The most prominent institutions are the Monterrey Institute of Technology (Tecnológico de Monterrey) and the University of Rio Grande do Sul (Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul – UFRGS). The former specializes in engineering and smart manufacturing systems and the latter in ICT (cloud computing, IoT, and big data, among others).

Intravaginal drug administration offers several advantages over other administration routes, primarily by bypassing the initial stages of metabolism. Additionally, this route has demonstrated both local and systemic effects. To prevent the disintegration of molecules in the mucous barriers of wet cavities, mucoadhesive polymeric systems can be utilized. In this study, the performance and characteristics of a mucoadhesive film composed of HPMC-PEG 400 containing retinol molecules was determined using various techniques. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was employed to determine the porous structure of the film. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) was conducted at different temperatures to assess thermal stability. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analyzed the functional groups and the intermolecular interactions between the film and the drug. Swelling and weight loss tests indicated that the film disintegrated within 3-4 days. For drug delivery evaluation based on the Higuchi equation, UV-VIS spectroscopy was used. Additionally, the surface wetting properties were assessed through contact angle measurements. The biocompatibility of the system was confirmed using the MTT assay. Finally, adhesion and glide tests demonstrated the film's interaction with porcine uterine tissue. This study shows that the HPMC-PEG 400 film containing retinol molecules interacts effectively with tissue and could be considered a novel tool for treating damaged epithelial tissues.

El Olivo Cave (Pruvia de Arriba, Llanera, Asturias, Spain) is a small karst cave located in the Aboño River basin and formed in the Cretaceous limestone of the Mesozoic cover of the Cantabrian Mountains (north of the Iberian Peninsula). It contains an important upper Pleistocene sedimen-tary, archaeological and paleontological record, with abundant technological evidence and faunal remains. The archaeological record shows a first occupation that could correspond to the Middle Paleolithic and a second occupation in the Middle Magdalenian. The stratigraphic sequence inside and outside the cave was studied with geoarchaeological methodology. In this paper, the lithostratigraphic sequence is analyzed and the data from the granulometric, mineralogical, edaphological and radiometric analyses are presented. The results of these analyses enable an accurate interpretation of both the lithostratigraphy of the deposit as well as the processes re-sponsible for its formation and subsequent evolution. The available numerical dates allow us to locate the first sedimentation episode in the cave in OIS 7a, in the Middle Pleistocene, the base of the outer fluvial sedimentation in the cold OIS 3a stage of the Upper Pleistocene and the Magdalenian occupation in the Last Glacial Maximum (OIS 2) at the end of the Late Pleistocene.

Background. Telegram, an Industry 4.0 style Russian-born communication service, is one of the world’s most widespread communication platforms despite Putin’s censorship. The availability of channels and bots has opened as a broadcast channel for any media outlet. Objetives. We asked the following questions: Do Spanish media outlets use Telegram channels? Which media outlets? Are they verified? What is their volume of subscribers? Can this information be used to rank media outlets? We identified many media channels and numerous variables were collected from each one. Results and conclusions. Forty-two Spanish media outlets have Telegram channels, 26 of which are ranked in the directory. Less than half of these channels are verified by the platform, and only three are linked to their website. This lack of verification could lead to the proliferation of fake channels. We created a ranking, and the top-10 includes two foreign, six national, and two regional media outlets.

Abstract: Nowadays, there is an increasing interest in the development of novel bioresorbable membranes for Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR). Hydroxyapatite of different resources in com-bination with chitosan has been used successfully. In this work, armored catfish (Pterygoplich-thys spp) bone as a source of hydroxyapatite is proposed; it was isolated through bone calcina-tion at a temperature of 1000 °C. The hydroxyapatite obtained was analyzed for its chemical composition by means of Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), its functional groups by Fouri-er Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), its crystallographic structures were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (DRX) and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the mor-phology of the particle. The composed membrane presents a major roughness morphology sur-face than the pristine chitosan membrane. The hydroxyapatite particles added to the polymeric matrix increased the mechanical tensile properties of the membrane. These findings confirm that armored catfish bones are a viable, economic, and environmentally friendly source of hydroxy-apatite, which combined with chitosan, is a suitable alternative to develop biocompatible GBR membranes after it is combined with chitosan.

Abstract: Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the female population due to the re-sistance of cancer cells to many anticancer drugs used. Curcumin has cytotoxic activities against breast cancer cells, although it has limited use due to its poor bioavailability and rapid metabolic elimination. The synthesis of metal complexes of curcumin and curcuminoids is a relevant topic in the search for more active and selective derivatives of these molecular scaffolds. However, solubil-ity and bioavailability are concomitant disadvantages of these types of molecules. To overcome such drawbacks, the preparation of inclusion complexes offers a chemical and pharmacologically safe option for improving the aqueous solubility of organic molecules. Herein, we describe the preparation of the inclusion complex of dimethoxy curcumin magnesium complex with cyclodex-trin (DiMeOC-Mg-BCD, 5) in the stoichiometric relationship 1:1. This new inclusion complex's solubility in aqueous media (PBS) was improved by a factor of 6x over the free metal complex (DiMeOC-Mg). Furthermore, 5 affects cell metabolic rate, cell morphology, cell migration, induced apoptosis, and downregulation of the MMP-2 and MMP-9, IL-6, and STAT3 expression levels on MDA MB 231 cell lines. Results of an antitumor assay in an in-ovo model showed up to 30% inhi-bition of tumour growth for breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) when using 5 (0.650 mg/Kg dose), and 17.29 % inhibition with the free homoleptic metal complex (1.5 mg/Kg dose, DiMeOC-Mg). While the formulation of inclusion complexes from metal complexes of curcuminoids demonstrates its usefulness in improving the solubility and bioavailability of these metallodrugs, the new DiMeOC-Mg-BCD exhibits excellent potential for use as a therapeutic agent in the battle against breast cancer.

The cellular behavior of Voronoi tessellation has generated interest due to its applicability in various fields and its notable structural properties. Controlling factors such as the gradient of the cells, the position of seed points and the thickness of the arms allows for adjusting rigidity and flexibility according to specific needs. This article analyzes the state of the art of this technique, exploring its modification for applications in engineering and design, complemented with information on natural structural properties. This comprehensive analysis provides a complete overview of Voronoi tessellation and its potential in engineering and design, categorizing methodologies according to selected processing methods and highlighting techniques for altering structural behavior. Additionally, it emphasizes the integration of biomimetic approaches, connecting nature with technology to foster continuous innovation. Finally, the article addresses encountered limitations, offering future perspectives for the cellular technique and highlights the complexity of reproducibility due to reserved or generalized steps, despite the significant diversity in implemented techniques.

The innate immune system is the first line of defense against pathogens. It’s composition includes barriers, mucus and other substances as well as phagocytic and other cells. The purpose of the paper is to analyze in general grounds the immune system and the body immunity to cancer. Simple ideas and the qualitative theory of differential equations are used along with general principles such as the minimization of the pathogen load and economy of resources. In the simplest linear model, the annihilation rate of pathogens in any tissue should be greater than the pathogen’s average rate of growth. When nonlinearities are added, a reference value for the number of pathogens is set, and a stability condition emerges, which relates strength of regular threats, barrier height and annihilation rate. On the other hand, in cancer immunity, the linear model leads to an expression for the lifetime risk, which accounts for both the effects of carcinogens (endogenous or external) and the immune response. The stability condition allows a comparison of immunity in different tissues. The way the tissue responds to an infection shows a correlation with the way it responds to cancer. These statements are formulated at the qualitative level, but may and deserve to be quantitatively checked.

Potentially, traditional medicine is used to manage multidrug resistance (MDR) bacterial infections. This study determined the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of Thymus schimperi (Ts), Rhamnus prinoides (Rp) and Justicia schimperiana (Js) from Addis Ababa against MDR-Uropathogenic Bacteria. Hydromethanolic extracts were prepared. Quantitative determination of phytochemicals and DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assays for antioxidant activities were carried out. In vitro, antibacterial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were performed. Ts had the highest total phenolic (TPC), flavonoid (TFC) and proanthocyanidin content. GC-MS analyses identified 14 bioactive-compounds: in Ts extract, with hexanedioic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester, thymol, and o-cymen-5-ol being the most predominant, respectively; in Rp extract (6 compounds; hexanedioic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester, β-D-glucopyranoside, methyl and desulphosinigrin respectively); and in Js extract (5 bioactive-compounds: hexanedioic acid, mono (2-ethylhexyl) ester, debrisoquine, and 8,11,14-heptadecatrienoate, methyl ester) being predominant, respectively. The extracts' TPC showed a strong negative correlation with the DPPH assay (r= -0.999; p=0.023), while its TFC correlated significantly with the ABTS assay (r=0.999; p= 0.032). Ts showed the highest antibacterial activity against clinical isolates of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae ESBL at 1000 mg/mL, and TS had the lowest MIC (4 mg/mL) among evaluated extracts against E. coli (ATCC25922). In conclusion, Ts and Rp showed activity against patient-isolated MDR-uropathogenic E. coli and K. pneumoniae ESBL.

In Mexico viticulture represents the second source of employment in the agricultural area after the fruit and vegetable sector. In developed countries, remote sensing is widely used for vineyard monitoring, however, this tool is barely used in developing countries of Iberoamerica. In this re-search, our overall objective is to characterize two vineyards in the state of Queretaro (Mexico) using Sentinel-2 and meteorological data, specifically spectral and thermal indices. Results showed that spectral indices obtained from Sentinel-2 bands have characterized adequately the phenolog-ical evolution of the different varieties of the vineyards. The Modified Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (MSAVI) was adequately used to discriminate the first stages of vineyards, while the Nor-malized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was useful to monitor vineyards during the rest stages of vineyards. Thermal indices have shown that the best grape varieties were those that can adapt to both cooler and warmer temperatures, have a reasonable ripening period, and can produce wines with balanced acidity and flavors. In conclusion, the combination of meteorological (including thermal indices) and remote sensing data (NDVI and MSAVI) provide information for choosing the suitable grape variety for this region.

Experimentation is a strong methodology that improves and optimizes processes, never the less, in many cases, real life dynamics of production demands and other restrictions inhibit the use of these methodologies because their use implies stopping production, generate scrap, jeopardize demands accomplishment and other problems. Here is proposed and alternative methodology to search for the best process variables levels and optimize the response of the process without the need to stop production. This algorithm is based on the principles of the Variable Simplex developed by Nelder and Mead and the continuous iterative process of EVOPS developed by Box and then modified as a simplex by Spendley. It is named parallel simplex because it searches for the best response with three independent Simplexes, searching the same response at the same time. The algorithm was designed for three simplexes of two input variables each. The case study documented shows that it is efficient and effective.

Despite widespread vaccination, early treatments, and improved understanding of the disease, the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection remain significant worldwide. Many patients still suffer from severe COVID-19, necessitating admission to intensive care units. Remdesivir is a primary treatment option among viral RNA polymerase inhibitors for hospitalized SARS-CoV-2 patients. However, there is a lack of studies examining factors influencing its effectiveness in this context. We conducted a retrospective study throughout 2022, analyzing clinical, laboratory, and sociodemographic data from 252 hospitalized COVID-19 patients treated with remdesivir. Six machine learning algorithms were compared and validated to predict factors associated with the loss of clinical benefit from remdesivir in terms of mortality and hospital stay. Data were extracted from electronic health records. The eXtreme Gradient Boost (XGB) method achieved the highest balanced accuracy for both mortality (95.45%) and hospital stay (94.24%). Factors associated with worse outcomes of remdesivir use in terms of mortality included limitation of life support treatment, need for ventilatory support (especially invasive mechanical ventilation) on day 14 after the first dose of remdesivir, lymphopenia, low levels of albumin and hemoglobin, presence of flu and/or coinfection, and cough. Factors associated with worse outcomes of remdesivir use in terms of hospital stay included the number of doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, patchy lung density, bilateral pulmonary radiological status, number of comorbidities, oxygen therapy, troponin and lactate dehydrogenase levels, and asthenia. These findings highlight the effectiveness of XGB as a strong candidate for accurately categorizing COVID-19 patients undergoing remdesivir treatment.

The purpose of this research article is to provide a comprehensive method that allows the evaluation of the public transportation in their different transport lines that offer in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua. This study presents a description of the public transport system as part of the literature review that describes an appropriate model based on the more outstanding publications about urban mobility and public transportation for passengers’ as well as success cases published which serves as a starting point to check the actual state of the public transportation system based on the Pythagorean Fuzzy CODAS to analyze and evaluate the alternatives through criteria that defines the general performance. The integration of these methods provides an adequate methodology for decision-making concerning urban planning and mobility to detect and improve the performance of criteria not considered within sustainable urban mobility plans.

This paper constitutes a first advance in the paleoenvironmental study of a small group of peatland ecosystems, of reduced size, located in the interior of the Iberian Peninsula (Puebla de Don Rodrigo, Ciudad Real, Spain). It represents a singular enclave, because these ecosystems are home to the southern-most peatlands in Europe, located at the lowest altitude in Spain, and are unique to the region of Castilla-La Mancha. They form ecosystems similar to the peat bogs of northern Europe, but in a Mediterranean climate. The analysis is followed of sample collection and data collection from documentary, textual, and cartographic sources drawn up since the 16th century up until the present day. The scientific analyses that were performed and the documentation that was consulted point to the hypothesis that these peatlands are the result of a long process of historical modification of the landscape in which anthropogenic activity has played a leading role, triggering a series of processes on the hillslopes that are culminating in the exhumation of the waterlogged areas, thereby establishing a recent genesis of these ecosystems.

Primary and secondary cardiovascular prevention is less effective than expected due to the concern about polymedication by professionals and the lack of patient adherence to medications prescribed in the medium and long term. Polypills have been presented as a possible solution. A comprehensive bibliographic review is presented about polypills as mechanisms for facilitating adherence and a proposed guide for the use of polypills for the prevention of cardiovascular risk. 41 articles were included, showing options for the polypill as a method of primary and secondary cardiovascular prevention.The polypill increases therapeutic adherence in the medium and long term, also increasing the therapeutic results compared to the administration of the various drugs separately. Based on the evidence, a flow diagram is proposed for the prescription of a polypill.Polypills increase the effectiveness and adherence of patients to primary and secondary cardiovascular prevention programs, without increasing the cost of the intervention. The use of a polypill in cardiovascular prevention can be effective as a prescription tool.

The obtention of simple formulae for the Lebesgue constants arising in the the classical Fourier series approximation is presented. Both even and odd cases are treated enlarging Fejér result. Asymptotic formulae are also obtained.

INTRODUCTION: Cardiovascular prevention is less effective than expected due to the concern about polymedication of professionals and the lack of adherence of patients. Polypills are presented as a possible solution, increasing therapeutic adherence in the medium or long term and improving therapeutic results compared to the administration of drugs separately: they increase effectiveness and Adherence of patients to primary and secondary cardiovascular prevention programs, without increasing the cost of the intervention. OBJECTIVES: Study #Trigeria: to specify the combined prevalence of Atrial Fibrillation, Dyslipidemia and Hypertension and analyze the pharmacological prescription for these pathologies and the possible indications and advantages that would have the prescription of a polypill for these risk factors.METHODS: Observational analytical study on the pathological history in elderly institutionalized in nursing homes and analysis of prescribed oral medication.RESULTS: 169 people analyzed (79.3% women) from 4 nursing homes; 8.9% had a history of Atrial Fibrillation, Dyslipidemia and Arterial Hypertension; these had a higher prevalence of heart disease (42.9%) and Cerebral Vascular Accident (35.7%). Polymedication was present in 88.5%, with an average of 6.94 oral drugs prescribed; among those with the three pathological antecedents, the average number of oral medications was 8.60. Only 26.7% of those with all three factors were prescribed drugs to control them.DISCUSSION: There are high rates of polymedication in the sample and low rates of prescription of antiplatelet agents in people with Atrial Fibrillation (26.5%); the low prescription of statins and antihypertensives of the ACE inhibitor or ARB-II groups may be due to good control with non-pharmacological measures or by the use of other groups of drugs . A polypill holding the drugs that control the three factors studied could increase the prescription rate while simplifying the administration schedule and reducing polymedication by 23.25% improving prescription, increasing adherence and control of risk factors without increasing pharmaceutical expenditure.CONCLUSIONS: There is a low rate of prescription of antiplatelet agents among people with atrial fibrillation. Combination methods (polypills) can increase the suitability of prescriptions in people with polypathology, improving prescribing, simplifying administration and increasing adherence to pharmacological treatments.

Managing plant diseases caused by phytopathogenic fungi, like anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum species, is a challenge. Different methods are being sought to identify compounds with antibiotic properties. The Trichoderma strains represent a source of novel molecules with antifungal properties, including Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), the production of which is influenced by the medium’s nutrient content. In this study, we assessed the VOCs produced in dual confrontation systems performed in two culture media by Trichoderma strains (T. atroviride IMI206040, T. asperellum T1 and T3, and Trichoderma sp. T2) against Colletotrichum acutatum. We analyze the VOCs profiles using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The Luria Bertani medium (LB) stimulated VOCs production with antifungal properties in most systems. We determined the 2-pentyl furan, dimethyl disulfide, and α-phellandrene antifungal activity in vitro. The equimolar mixture of those VOCs (250 µM) generated 14% C. acutatum diametral growth inhibition. The infective ability and the disease severity caused by the mycelium exposed to the VOCs mixture significantly diminished on strawberry leaves. The application of those VOCs as biofumigants could contribute to managing anthracnose. The use of LB represents a feasible strategy to identify VOCs with antifungal properties even between Trichoderma strains belonging to the same species.

Dengue fever remains a persistent threat in Mexico, with cyclical outbreaks driven by the circulation of multiple dengue virus serotypes. The sudden emergence of DENV-3 in 2023 raised questions about its epidemiological significance and potential implications for disease severity. This study aimed to characterize dengue virus serotypes by age and their association with disease severity, considering sex, time, and the origin of clinical samples. A retrospective analysis was conducted on dengue laboratory results obtained from the epidemiological surveillance system in Mexico during 2023. Descriptive statistics summarized the prevalence of dengue virus serotypes, while bivariate analysis utilized an adjusted Chi-squared test to assess associations with demographic variables. Multivariate analysis using unconditional logistic regression evaluated the relationship between dengue virus serotypes and disease severity, adjusting for potential confounders. Additionally, co-infections were identified and analyzed. Results revealed DENV-3 as the most prevalent serotype (63.9%), with co-infection involving two serotypes detected in 0.75% of cases. DENV-2 exhibited a higher median age compared to other serotypes. Pregnant women in their last trimester faced elevated risks of hospitalization and mortality. Multivariate analysis indicated a stronger association between DENV-2 and hospitalization. However, co-infection did not significantly influence disease severity. The unexpected predominance of DENV-3 underscores the dynamic nature of dengue virus circulation in Mexico. Despite its prevalence, DENV-2 demonstrated a stronger association with hospitalization, highlighting the importance of serotype-specific surveillance and management strategies.

3D cell cultures have improved the evaluation of drugs for cancer therapy, due to their high similarity to solid tumors. In melanoma, autophagy appears to show a dual role depending on the progression of the disease. p62 protein has been proposed for the evaluation of autophagic flux since its expression is an indicator of the state of autophagy. Pentoxifylline (PTX) and Norcantharidin (NCTD) are drugs that have been shown to have anticancer effects in various types of cancer. In this work, B16F1 mouse melanoma cell line was used, from which two-dimensional (2D) monolayer cultures and three-dimensional (3D) organoids were carried out using the hanging drop technique. The expression of p62 was determined by western blot and immunofluorescences. Our results indicate that pentoxifylline reduces p62 expression in both types of culture. While Norcantharidin increases its expression in 3D cultures at 24 h. Therefore, these drugs could have a potential therapeutic use for the regulation of autophagy in melanoma, depending on the state of evolution of the disease.

This study explores the potential of using a Siamese Network as a biomarker for assessing the effectiveness of Dolphin-Assisted Therapy (DAT) in children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). The problem statement revolves around the need for objective measures to evaluate the impact of DAT on patients with CP, considering the subjective nature of traditional assessment methods. The methodology involves training a Siamese network, a type of neural network designed to compare similarities between inputs, using data collected from CP patients undergoing DAT sessions. The network is trained to learn patterns and similarities between pre- and post-therapy evaluations, in order to identify biomarkers indicative of therapy effectiveness. Notably, the Siamese Network’s architecture ensures that comparisons are made within the same feature space, allowing for more accurate assessments. The results of the study demonstrate promising findings, indicating different patterns in the output of the Siamese Network that correlate with improvements in symptoms of CP post-DAT. These findings suggest the potential utility of the Siamese Network as a biomarker to monitor therapy outcomes in children with CP who undergo DAT, offering a more objective and quantifiable approach to assessing therapeutic interventions. Significant disparities in neuronal voltage perturbations, with a mean of 7.9825 dB in specific samples compared to 6.2838 dB in the data set, indicate a marked difference from resting activity. This suggests that dolphin-assisted therapy selectively activates specific brain regions uniquely during the intervention.

We perform new measurements of the expansion rate and the sound horizon at the end of the baryon decoupling and derive constraints on cosmic key parameters in the framework of the ΛCDM model, flat wCDM model, the ΛCDM+ΩK model and the phenomenological emergent dark energy (PEDE) model. We keep rd and H0 completely free and use the recent dark energy spectroscopic instrument (DESI) Year 1 and dark energy survey (DES) Year 6 BAO measurements in the effective redshift range 0.3<z<2.33 combined with the compressed form of the Pantheon sample of Type Ia supernovae, the latest 33 observational H(z) measurements based on the differential age method, and the recent H0 measurement from SH0ES 2022 as an additional Gaussian prior. Combining BAO data with the observational H(z) measurements, and the Pantheon SNe Ia data, we get H0=69.65±1.07 km s−1 Mpc−1, rd=147.71±2.18 Mpc in ΛCDM model, H0=70.06±1.07 km s−1 Mpc−1, rd=147.39±2.50 Mpc in PEDE model. The spatial curvature is Ωk=0.025±0.026 and the dark energy equation of state is w=−1.016±0.056, consistent with a cosmological constant. We apply the Akaike information and the Bayesian information criterion test to compare the four models, and see that PEDE model performs better.

Sensory processing challenges are crucial yet often neglected aspects in the care of children with neurodevelopmental disorders and genetic conditions. They represent a key area of interest in neuroscience, as they significantly impact children's daily functioning and quality of life. This observational study examines the characteristics of these challenges in a group of 614 children, aged 3 to 14 years and 11 months, divided into three groups: 183 with neurodevelopmental disorders (Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, developmental delays, learning disorders), 89 with genetic conditions (22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome, Williams Syndrome, Pseudohypoparathyroidism), and 342 controls. Sensory processing was assessed using the Sensory Profile 2 (SP2). Results indicated that children with neurodevelopmental disorders and genetic conditions exhibited significant sensory processing difficulties compared to controls. The SP2 identified sensory challenges across different sensory systems, with varying configurations depending on the diagnosis. Children with neurodevelopmental disorders and genetic conditions show marked sensory processing challenges impacting daily lives and well-being. These findings highlight the importance of early identification and tailored evidence-based interventions to address these specific sensory processing issues. Further research should explore the long-term impact of these interventions in these different populations and their integration into broader therapeutic programs.

Curcuminoids are widely studied due to their well-recognized therapeutic properties. These molecules are often derivatized with metals, rendering their corresponding homoleptic metal complexes. Numerous crystal structures of homoleptic symmetric curcuminoids with physiologically essential metals are known, although the literature lacks reports of homoleptic unsymmetric metal complexes of curcuminoids (or hemi-curcuminoids). Two unknowns must be solved when an unsymmetric curcuminoid ligand is reacted with a metal ion: a) the degree of coordination (MLn) and b) the conformational nature (syn or anti) of the complex. Herein, we report the structure of the anti-isomer of the Zn complex of the hemi-curcuminoid 5-hydroxy-1-(4-methoxyphenyl)hexa-1,4-dien-3-one. While the NMR shows only one set of signals for this homoleptic complex, the unambiguous stereochemistry was established through single-crystal X-ray diffractometry, revealing a hexacoordinated ML2 structure.

Polycrystalline zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films were deposited on soda-lime glass substrates using the chemical spray pyrolysis method at three different substrate temperatures: 400, 450, and 500 ºC. The solvents used in the precursor solution consisted of either ethanol or methanol. The effects of these solvents on the compositional, structural, morphological, electrical, and optical properties were studied with different techniques, including Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Four-Point method and Ultraviolet and Visible Spectroscopy (Uv-Vis). The results show that both temperature and the type of solvent modify the properties of the materials. An essential outcome of the study was that at 500 ºC, the ZnO thin films prepared with either ethanol or methanol exhibited almost the same high-quality crystallinity, stoichiometry, average crystallite size, energy band gap, and resistivity. These findings contribute to our understanding of the properties of these materials and their potential applications.

Aspergillus flavus is a medically relevant fungus, particularly in tropical regions. Thermotolerance is a key virulence factor as an opportunistic pathogen, as well as its ability to form biofilms, which can impact therapeutic outcomes. To know how temperature affects the growth and biofilm formation of an A. flavus isolate, we assessed its growth on solid media and described the morphological changes during conidial germination. We also examined formation and composition of in vitro biofilm incubated at different temperatures and compared the susceptibility of planktonic and biofilm cells to antifungal agents. Our results showed that temperature promotes conidiation on solid media. The radial growth was higher at 28 °C, but total conidia was higher at 37 °C, however, conidial density was stronger at 42 °C. Moreover, incubation at 37 °C accelerates conidial germination and is the optimal temperature for biofilm formation. We described four distinct phases in A. flavus biofilm development: initiation (0-12h), consolidation (12-48h), maturation (48-72h), and dispersion (>72h), where the presence of aspergillar heads was notable at 42 °C. Carbohydrates and proteins are the main components of the extracellular matrix. We observed lipid droplets within the biofilm hyphae, and mature biofilms are resistant to amphotericin B and itraconazole, with MICs exceeding 16 g/mL for both antifungals, regardless of the incubation temperature.

An efficacious treatment of H. pylori infection is cornerstone for the global control of the diseases caused by this bacterium. Continuous epidemiologic surveillance of susceptibility of H. pylori to the antibiotics recommended for its eradication is highly recommended. This study aimed to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of 651 isolates from five different collections isolated between 1996 to 2008 in México City. The susceptibility profile of H. pylori isolates was determined by the E-test strips for each antibiotic (amoxicillin, clarithromycin, metronidazole, and tetracycline). Antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed a very high proportion of H pylori strains susceptible to amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and tetracycline (94.5%, 95%, and 99.5 %, respectively). In contrast, a high proportion (95%) of isolates was resistant to metronidazole. Notably, the proportion of susceptible/resistant strains to the 4 antibiotics over 5 consecutive time periods remained stable over time. Despite a wide use of amoxicillin and clarithromycin in the general population, the H pylori high susceptibility to these 2 antibiotics has been preserved during more than a decade. The high prevalence of resistance to metronidazole in H. pylori strains in our population compromises its use in the empirical treatment of H. pylori infection.

In Mexico there is a deficit in the production of pine resin, because it depends on natural forests. Therefore, it is necessary to select provenances and phenotypes of potential species such as P. oocarpa. The objective was to determine the difference between provenances and the variation of resin components and quality, as well as the effect of geographic and climatic factors. Resin from five provenances was collected from southern Mexico. The percentage of rosin, turpentine and water was obtained, as well as the acidity and saponification index. P. oocarpa resin had 80.94 % rosin, 7.7 % turpentine and 11.49 % water. The saponification and acidity index was 125.47 and 117.49 mg KOH.g_1, respectively. All variables showed differences (p≤ 0.0001) between provenances. The provenance contributed between 6.44 and 11.71 % to the total variance, the error contributed between 88.29 and 93.56 %. Geographic and climatic variables only had an effect on the percentage of turpentine; the correlation was negative with altitude and longitude, but positive with temperature and precipitation. The results allow defining seed collection sites for resin plantations and orienting the selection for a P. oocarpa improvement program.

Drug repositioning is an efficient strategy to search for new treatment alternatives that is especially valuable for neglected parasitic diseases such as leishmaniasis. Tamoxifen and raloxifene are selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERM) that have shown antileishmanial activity. Clomiphene is a SERM structurally similar to tamoxifen whose antileishmanial potential is unknown. That is why the objective of the present work was to evaluate its antileishmanial activity in vitro and in vivo, in comparison with tamoxifen. The inhibitory effect against promastigotes of L. amazonensis, L. major and L. mexicana was evaluated for both compounds; as well as the cytotoxicity against mouse peritoneal macrophages, the growth inhibitory activity in intracellular amastigotes of L. mexicana, and the in vivo activity in mice experimentally infected with L. mexicana. Clomiphene was about twice as active as tamoxifen against both promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes, with IC50 values of 1.7-3.3 µM for clomiphene and 2.9-6.4 µM for tamoxifen against all three species promastigotes; and 2.8 ± 0.2 µM and 3.7 ± 0.3 µM, respectively, against L. mexicana amastigotes. Clomiphene structurally affected several parasite organelles in a concentration-dependent fashion, leading to the death of both promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes. Interestingly, the macrophage host cell did not appear damaged with any of the clomiphene concentrations tested. By oral administration at 20 mg/kg for 14 days, both compounds showed similar effects in terms of reducing the growth of the lesions, as well as the weight of the lesions and the parasite load at the end of the follow-up period. The results showed the potential of SERM as antileishmanial drugs and support further testing of clomiphene and other compounds of this pharmacological group.

Leptin, acting centrally or peripherally, has complex effects on cardiac remodeling and heart function. We previously reported that central leptin exerts an anti-hypertrophic effect in the heart via cardiac PPARβ/δ activation. Here, we assessed the impact of central leptin administra-tion and PPARβ/δ inhibition on cardiac function. Various cardiac properties, including QRS du-ration, R wave amplitude, heart rate (HR), ejection fraction (EF), end-diastolic left ventricular mass (EDLVM), end-diastolic volume (EDV), and cardiac output (CO) were analyzed. Central leptin infusion increased cardiac PPARβ/δ protein content and decreased HR, QRS duration and R wave amplitude. These changes induced by central leptin suggested a decrease in the ventricu-lar wall growth which was confirmed by MRI. In fact, the EDLVM was reduced by central leptin, while increased in rats co-treated with leptin and GSK0660, a selective antagonist of PPARβ/δ ac-tivity. In summary, central leptin plays a dual role in cardiac health, potentially leading to ven-tricular atrophy and improving heart function when PPARβ/δ signaling is intact. The protective effects of leptin are lost by PPARβ/δ inhibition, underscoring the importance of this pathway. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting leptin and PPARβ/δ pathways to combat cardiac alterations and heart failure, particularly, in the context of obesity

This paper presents a state machine based architecture which enhances flexibility and reusability of industrial robots, more concretely dual-arm multisensor robots. The proposed architecture, in addition to allowing absolute control of the execution, eases the programming of new applications by increasing the reusability of the developed modules. Through an easy-to-use graphical user interface, operators are able to create, modify, reuse and maintain industrial processes increasing the flexibility of the cell. Moreover, the proposed approach is applied in a real use case in order to demonstrate its capabilities and feasibility in industrial environments. A comparative analysis is presented for evaluating presented approach versus traditional robot programming techniques.

Maternal gut and breast milk (BM) are key in vertically transmission bacteria to infants, shaping their gut microbiota in early life. Although the establishment of early gut microbiota is known, the role of the combined influence of maternal factors and newborn characteristics are not explored. In this study we aimed to assess the influence of maternal BMI and total body fat, age, delivery mode, and newborn sex on the diversity and composition of the BM and gut microbiota (GM) in mother- newborn dyads. In this cross-sectional study, of the 986 pregnant women candidates, 53 participated, and finally, 40 mother-newborn dyads exclusively breastfeeding at 20-28 days post-partum were included. Metataxonomic profiling of DNA extracted from BM and fecal samples was conducted using 16S rRNA sequencing. Globally, the findings offer valuable insights that excessive adiposity, age and C-section delivery influence on a lower abundance of specific taxa in the BM, maternal gut, and gut newborns. Also, the simultaneous analysis of maternal factors and newborn characteristics shows that maternal age and newborn sex explain an important variation in the microbiota composition. These results add to understanding of the intricate interplay between maternal factors and the microbial communities that influence early-life gut and BM microbiota.

Maritime transport has become very important due to its ability to internationally unite all continents. In turn, during the last two years, we have observed that the increase of consumer goods has resulted in global shipping deadlocks. In addition, the future goes through the role of ports and efficiency in maritime transport, with the aim of decarbonizing its impact on the environment. In order to improve the economy and people's lives, in this work, we propose to enhance services offered in maritime logistics. To do this, a communications system is designed on the deck of ships to transmit data through a constellation of satellites using interconnected smart devices based on IoT. Among the services, we highlight the monitoring and tracking of refrigerated containers, the transmission of geolocation data from GPS, and security through AIS. This information will be used for a fleet of ships to make better decisions and help guarantee the status of the cargo, as well as maritime safety on the routes. The system design, network dimensioning, and a communications protocol for decision-making will be presented.

Abstract: Chemical investigation of the leaves from Ageratina glabrata yielded four new thymol derivatives, namely: 10-Benzoyloxy-8,9-dehydro-6-hydroxythymol isobutyrate (4), 10-benzoyloxy-8,9-dehydro thymol (5), 10-benzoyloxythymol (6) and 10-benzoyloxy-6,8-dihydroxy-9-isobutyryloxythymol (7). In addition, (8S)-10-benzoyloxy-8,9-epoxy-6-hydroxythymol isobutyrate (1), together with other two already known thymol derivatives identified as: 10-benzoyloxy-8,9-epoxy-6-methoxythymol isobutyrate (2) and 10-benzoyloxy-8,9-epoxythymol isobutyrate (3). In this paper, we wish to publish the structures and complete assignments of ¹H and ¹³C NMR data of compounds 1 – 7, and the absolute configuration for compound 1, unambiguously established by single crystal X-ray diffraction, and evaluation of the Flack parameter. The in vitro antiprotozoal assay showed that compound 1 and its derivative 1a were the most potent antiamoebic and antigiardial compounds. Both compounds showed selectivity and good antiamoebic activity like emetine and metronidazole, respectively, two antiprotozoal drugs used as positive controls. In relation of anti-propulsive effect, compound 1 and 1a showed moderate inhibitory activity, their activities were comparable to quercetin and compound 9, respectively, two natural antipropulsive compounds used as positive controls. These data suggest that compound 1 may play an important role in antidiarrheal properties of Ageratina glabrata.

The effect of sonication on the molecular characteristics of poliacrylic acid (Carbopol® Ultrez 10) and its rheological behavior in aqueous dispersions and microgels containing 0.25 wt. % of the polymer was analyzed in this work by rheometry, weight-average molecular weight (Mw) measurements via static light scattering (SLS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and confocal microscopy. For this, the precursor dispersion and the microgels were sonicated in a commercial ultrasound bath at constant power and different times. We observed a softening of the microgel microstructure consisting of a systematic decrease in its shear modulus, yield stress and viscosity with increasing sonication time, while their overall Herschel-Bulkley (H-B) behavior was preserved. SLS measurements evidenced a reduction of Mw of polyacrylic acid with sonication time. Separately, FTIR measurements indicate that sonication produces scission in the C-C links of the Carbopol® backbone, which results in chains with the same chemistry but lower molecular weight. Finally, confocal microscopy measurements revealed a concomitant diminution of the size of the microsponge domains with sonication time, which is reflected in a softer microstructure resulting from reduction of the molecular weight of polyacrylic acid. The present results indicate that both the microstructure and the rheological behavior of Carbopol® microgels, in particular, and complex fluids in general, may be manipulated or tailored by high-power ultrasonication.

Technology has transformed aeroponics, providing numerous advantages over traditional soil-based agriculture. However, there remains a need for comprehensive information on the types of technology employed in aeroponics and their impact on the growing process. This paper presents a literature review of 47 studies published between 2012 and 2023 in peer-reviewed journals and conference proceedings. As a result, it identifies the status and tendencies in the usage of technology in aeroponics as well as the main opportunities and challenges. Furthermore, this paper introduces the Technology Adoption and Integration in Sustainable Agriculture (TAISA) model. TAISA is a model that identifies the degree of technology integration in any sustainable agriculture system to determine how technology affects production and quality. Overall, the systematic review suggests that technology can play a vital role in improving the efficiency and sustainability of aeroponic farming. However, careful consideration must be given to the costs and technical requirements associated with using these technologies. Moreover, the TAISA model reveals that technology has primarily been employed in creating new processes that are not possible to implement without the help of technology. Therefore, we conclude that technology use has taken root in aeroponics and can be promoted to improve sustainable agriculture.

Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) and the sensing devices are considered part of the core components of the Internet of Things (IoT). Hence, the modeling of IoT-WSNs is fundamental to having a better understanding, management, and deployment of this kind of technology. A fundamental issue in WSN is energy consumption due to the inherent limitations of this resource in the sensor devices. On the other hand, several issues arise in heterogeneous scenarios due to the coexistence of different sensor devices. Therefore, the modeling process becomes challenging and must consider the different transmission and operation cycles and modes that the transmission protocol implements to assure successful functioning in terms of transmission, synchronization, and energy savings. A duty-cycled MAC WSN protocol (PSA-MAC) has been modeled based on a pair of two-dimensional Discrete-Time Markov Chain (2D-DTMC), whose solution in terms of stationary probability distribution is used by expressions that have been derived to evaluate the energy consumption of sensor devices that could be used for WSN-based IoT applications. Analytical results of average energy consumption are obtained, where the synchronization, data, and sleep periods of a full transmission cycle are considered in a heterogeneous scenario with different node classes and priority assignments. Also, the normal and awake operation cycles are considered to assure synchronization and energy savings. Moreover, the transmission schemes of SPT (transmission of single packets) and APT (transmission of packets in aggregation) are also considered in the model. These results are validated through discrete event-based simulations, and the obtained results are accurate.

Since the 1960s, forest planners have used linear programming models to develop management plans for large, forested areas. Hundreds of academic papers have presented such models, incorporating multiple objectives, a growing diversity of management interventions, and uncertainty, among other things. Three basic ways to formulate these models have been used: Model I, III, and III. We define these models based on the sequence of management unit states represented by the variables. In Model I, variables represent a sequence of states from the beginning of the planning horizon to the end. In Model II, variables represent a sequence of states from one intervention to the next. Finally, in Model III, variables represent a single arc in a management unit’s decision tree, including only a beginning and an ending state. We formulate each type of model for a case study with three increasingly complex scenarios incorporating additional ecosystem services. Our results indicate that, despite requiring more variables and constraints, Model III requires the least time to formulate, largely because it has the least dense parameter matrix. Model II has the shortest solution times, with Model III close behind. Model I requires both the longest formulation and solution times.

The focus of this work lies in the construction of monitoring system designed in the form of a patch using a long-lasting potentiometric electrolyte concentration sensor from metal electrodes, in a galvanic cell configuration Mg(s)|NaCl(aq)|Cu(s). Initially, a mathematical analysis was conducted on the expected sensor output through the Nernst equation. The experimental phase involved conducting controlled tests in the laboratory using various molar concentrations of sodium chloride (NaCl) in aqueous solution. Results showed that the electrolyte sensor allows for monitoring electrolyte levels in NaCl in the range of 0.02 to 1 M/L, with electrode lifespan exceeding 10 days. On the other hand, when patch is using human sweat during controlled exercise routines, it showed the sensor's capability for monitoring changes in the subjects' hydration levels in real time. The sensor output potential is greater than 1.7 volts when the sensor electrodes are in contact with human sweat, which is equivalent to measuring molar concentrations at normal hydration and moderately high hydration levels. Sensor results indicate that the system can function in a self-powered manner without external batteries. Additionally, the extended lifespan of its electrodes allows for continuous monitoring of imbalances in the human body, showcasing the system capability for long-term health assessment.

The operation feasibility of small hydropower plants in mountainous sites is subjected to the run-of-river flow which is also depending on a high variability in precipitation and snow cover. Moreover, the management of this kind of systems has to be performed with some particular operation conditions of the plant (e.g. turbine minimum and maximum discharge) but also some environmental flow requirements. In this context, a technological climate service is conceived in tight connection with end users, perfectly answering the needs of the management of small hydropower systems in a pilot area, and providing forecast of river streamflow together with other operation data. This paper presents an overview of the service but also a set of lessons learnt related to features, requirements and considerations to bear in mind from the point of view of climate services developers. In addition, the outcomes give insight into how this kind of services could change the traditional management (normally based on the past experience), providing a probability range of future river flow based on future weather scenarios according to the range of future weather possibilities. This highlights the utility of the co-generation process to implement climate services for water and energy fields but also that seasonal climate forecast could improve the business as usual of this kind of facilities.

White-rot fungi (WRF) have specific enzymes to degrade lignocellulosic and phenolic compounds. Therefore, their direct application could be an alternative to biodegrade complex lignocellulosic biomass such as olive mill solid waste (OMSW). The aim of this study was to evaluate the capacity of A. discolor and S. hirsutum to grow in OMSW as the sole substrate under static conditions and evaluate the phenolic removal compounds and lignin degradation. The lignolytic enzyme activity was determined, as was the phenolic compound removal. At the same time, lignin degradation and structural changes were evaluated by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. Both strains were able to grow using OMSW as the sole substrate without adding other nutrients, oxygen and/or agitation. The higher ligninolytic enzyme activity was found at day 8, and the highest phenolic removal (more than 80% with both strains) was reached after 24 days of incubation. The CLSM analysis confirmed lignin degradation through the drop in lignin fluorescence from 3967 for untreated OMSW to 235 and 221 RFU after 24 days of treatment by A. discolor and S. hirsutum respectively. The results indicate that both WRF could be suitable candidates to design an in-situ pretreatment step of OMSW, as long as in future research the WRFs have the same performance in non-sterile conditions.

Among the many Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSDs) that would benefit from the establish-ment of novel cell models, either patient-derived or genetically engineered, is Mucopolysaccha-ridosis type II (MPS II). In fact, even though a specific therapeutic approach does exist for this disorder (Enzyme Replacement Therapy, ERT, with recombinant human IDS) and haematopoiet-ic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) may also hold promise whenever the disorder is diagnosed soon enough, both approaches have their own drawbacks. Here we present our results on the establishment and characterization of two MPS II pa-tient-derived stem cell line(s) from deciduous baby teeth. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time a stem cell population is isolated from LSD patient samples obtained from the oral cavity. Taking into account our results on the molecular and biochemical characterization of those cells and our first insights on their subcellular MPS phenotype, we consider these cells will be a valuable tool for both pathophysiological assessments and drugs screenings. Ultimately, we believe patient-derived dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) may represent a feasible alternative to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) in many labs with standard cell culture con-ditions and limited (human and economic) resources.

The coastal zone of the Valparaíso Region has been historically threatened by its natural and anthropogenic conditions, which demands efficient management for the adaptation and mitigation of the impacts that occur on the coast, especially in the face of the growing effects of climate change. As a contribution to decision makers in the development of strategic actions through adaptation plans, this study presents an approach to coastal vulnerability in the southern part of the region, applying the Coastal Vulnerability Index considering the variables geomorphology, coastal slope, changes in sea level, coastal erosion, tidal range, and wave height. The result illustrates a sectorization of the coast according to the degree of vulnerability, where the sectors formed by fine sandy beaches near river mouths and estuaries present greater risks to climatic events than those rocky stretches with medium-low cliffs.

Applying a procedure similar to that of E.S. Bring, by using a 4^th degree Tschirnhaus transformation, it was possible to transform the Bring-Jerrard normal quintic (BJQ) equation into a De Moivre form (DMQ), so that it could be solved by radicals. The general solution by radicals of the De Moivre equations of any degree is presented. By the same procedure the BJSx (normal sextic) equation was taken to another one without the 2^nd, 4^th and 6^th terms which was transformed into a cubic (solvable) equation. By applying a 6^th degree Tschirnhaus transformation to the BJSp (normal septic) equation its binormal (without the 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th terms) form was obtained.

Applying a procedure similar to that of E.S. Bring, by using a 4^th degree Tschirnhaus transformation, it was possible to transform the Bring-Jerrard normal quintic (BJQ) equation into a De Moivre form (DMQ), so that it could be solved by radicals. The general solution by radicals of the De Moivre equations of any degree is presented. By the same procedure the BJSx (normal sextic) equation was taken to another one without the 2^nd, 4^th and 6^th terms which was transformed into a cubic (solvable) equation. By applying a 6^th degree Tschirnhaus transformation to the BJSp (normal septic) equation its Bring-Jerrard binormal (without the 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th terms) form was obtained.

This paper presents additional results of the generalized bathtub model for urban networks, including a simpler derivation and exact solutions for uniformly distributed trip lengths. It is shown that in steady state this trip-based model is equivalent to the more parsimonious accumulation-based model, and that the trip-length distribution has merely a transient effect on traffic dynamics, which converge to the same point in the macroscopic fundamental diagram (MFD). To understand the statistical properties of the system, a queueing approximation method is proposed to compute the network accumulation variance. It is found that (i) the accumulation variance is much larger than predicted by traditional queueing models, due to the nonlinear dynamics imposed by the MFD, (ii) the trip-length distribution has no effect on the accumulation variance, indicating that the proposed formula for the variance might be universal, (iii) the system exhibits critical behavior near the capacity state where the variance diverges to infinity. This indicates that the tools from critical phenomena and phase transitions might be useful to understand congestion in cities.

In the area of health, namely hospitals, we can agree that the intrinsic need to have multidisciplinary teams, highly specialized and indispensable resources leads us to a degree of complexity that requires, daily, the best performance, not running away from the logistics area to the rule. The centralization of resources, namely distribution warehouses, emerges as a challenge and possible solution for health institutions to respond in the best possible way to their main purpose: to put the right material in the right place at the right price in the right time space. As regards the advantages of this type of organization, there are several authors who argues that the need for human resources training, ease of coordination and the use of economies of scale are the main advantage. As far as the disadvantages are concerned, there is no special agreement on them, there are disparate factors from author to author, such as: routine, centralization, objectives or operation costs.

Background Cesarean scar ectopic pregnancies are a rare form of extrauterine pregnancies, yet their incidence has increased along with the rise in the number of cesarean deliveries. As with other ectopic pregnancies, cesarean scar ectopic pregnancies pose a greater risk for maternal hemorrhage and ultimately maternal mortality. Case presentation We present a series of clinical cases of cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy diagnosed by transvaginal ultrasonography. Each patient received an individualized treatment: the rate of success depended on the particular maternal condition in each case. Due to the low frequency of this entity, there are no clear protocols for its treatment and thus there are numerous options for treatment and follow up: expectant management, medical therapy, surgical intervention, uterine artery embolization or a combined approach. Each method has different levels of success and is dependent on the surgeon’s skill and patient presentation. The transvaginal ultrasound is necessary to obtain the fine details of the gestation sac and its relation to the scar and must be followed by a meticulous abdominal scan with a full bladder. Conclusion Herein, we present a rare pathological phenomenon whose frequency is on the rise, and for which transvaginal ultrasound and flow doppler provide high diagnostic accuracy. Early diagnosis of cesarean scar ectopic pregnancies offers treatment options to that may help avoid uterine rupture and bleeding, thus preserving the uterus and future fertility.

In ref. [1], we pointed out that certain anomalies observed in the published data for ac magnetic susceptibility of a room temperature superconductor reported in Nature 586, 373 (2020) [2] would be cleared up once the measured raw data were made available. Part of the measured raw data were recently posted in arXiv:2111.15017 [3]. Here we report the results of our analysis of these raw data and our conclusion that they are incompatible with the published data. Implications of these results to the claim that the material is a room temperature superconductor are discussed.

Cutting and packing problems have been studied for decades and are of concern for a wide variety of industries to reduce costs and material utilization. This paper addresses the one-dimensional cutting stock problem, focusing on minimizing total stock usage. Procedures that address this problem include linear programming methods and metaheuristics. However, linear programming methods are limited to low-complexity instances, while most metaheuristics require extensive parameter tuning. In this paper, we develop a Petri-net model to construct cutting patterns. Using the reachability tree of the Petri net, the filtered beam search algorithm is implemented to find the best solution. Our algorithm is compared with the Least Lost Algorithm and the Generate & Solve algorithm over five datasets of instances. These algorithms share some characteristics with ours and have proven to be effective and efficient. Experimental results demonstrate that our algorithm effectively finds optimal solutions for both low and high-complexity instances. These findings confirm that Petri nets are suitable for modeling and solving the one-dimensional cutting stock problem.

Purpose: We aimed to develop a nomogram able to predict treatment failure, skeletal events and overall survival (OS) in patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer with bone metastases (CRPC-BM) treated with Radium-223 dichloride (223Ra). Patients and Methods: Patients from Castilla-La Mancha Spanish region was prospectively included in ChoPET-Rad multicenter study, from January 2015 to December 2022. Patients underwent baseline, interim, and end-of-treatment bone scintigraphy (BS) and 18F-Fluorocholine PET/CT (FCH PET/CT) scans, obtaining multiple imaging radiomics as well as clinical and biochemical variables during follow-up and studying their association with the previously defined end-points. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression. Multivariate logistic and Cox regression models were calculated, and these models were depicted by means of nomograms. Results: Median progression-free survival (PFS) and OS for our population were 4 and 14 months (mo), respectively. The variables that showed the most robust independent significant association with therapeutic failure were baseline alkaline phosphatase (AP) levels (p=0.022) and the characteristics of BM on CT portion of PET/CT (p=0.017). In the case of OS, the significant variables were therapeutic failure (p=0.038), the number of lines received after 223Ra (p

The objective of the present contribution was to design and characterize resveratrol (RSV) and tocopherol (TOC) loaded 11S quinoa seed protein nanocomplexes. Firstly, molecular docking was performed to describe the probable binding sites between protein and ligands. Isothermal titration calorimetry allowed to obtain the thermodynamic parameters that described the molecular interactions between RSV or TOC with the protein. 11S globulin intrinsic fluorescence spectra showed a quenching effect exerted by RSV and TOC, demonstrating protein-bioactive compounds interactions. Stern-Volmer, Scatchard and Förster resonance energy transfer models application confirmed static quenching and allowed to obtain parameters that described the 11S-RSV or 11S-TOC complexation process. Secondly, protein aggregation induced by bioactive compounds interactions was confirmed by dynamic light scattering and atomic force microscopy with diameters <150 nm, detected by both techniques. Finally, it was found that antioxidant capacity of single 11S globulin did not decrease, meanwhile was additive for 11S-RSV. These nanocomplexes could constitute a real platform for the design of nutraceutical products.

This paper has a twofold objective. The first aim is to present a comprehensive bibliographical analysis of journal articles and book chapters on fuzzy-random option pricing (FROP) over the WoS and SCOPUS databases. It follows PRISMA criteria and takes special care of developments in continuous time. Thus, we described the principal findings about the research streams, outlets and authors of this topic and lets us suggest further research. The second contribution is motivated by the fact that the bibliographical revision has identified a lack of developments on equilibrium models on the yield curve. This question motivates extending Vasicek’s yield curve equilibrium model to introduce fuzziness in the parameters that govern interest rate movements (speed of reversion, equilibrium short-term interest rate, and volatility). Likewise, this paper develops an empirical application on the term structure of fixed income public bonds with the highest credit rating in the Euro area.

This study examines the feasibility of using event-related potentials (ERPs) obtained from electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings as biomarkers for long-term memory item classification. Previous studies have identified old/new effects in memory paradigms associated with explicit long-term memory and familiarity. Recent advancements in convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have enabled the classification of ERP trials under different conditions and identification of features related to neural processes at the single-trial level. We employed this approach to compare three CNN models with distinct architectures using experimental data. Participants (N = 25) performed an association memory task while recording ERPs that were used for training and validation of the CNN models. The EEGNET-based model achieved the most reliable performance in terms of precision, recall, and specificity compared with the shallow and deep convolutional approaches. The classification accuracy of this model reached 70% for known items and 62% for unknown items. Good overall accuracy requires a trade-off between recall and specificity and depends on the architecture of the model and the dataset size. These results suggest the possibility of integrating ERP and CNN into online learning tools and identifying the underlying processes related to long-term memorization.

Biodiversity conservation questions human practices towards biodiversity and, therefore, largely conflicts with ordinary societal aspirations. Decisions on the location of protected areas, one of the most convincing conservation tools, reflect such a competitive endeavor. Operations Research (OR) brings a set of analytical models and tools capable of resolving the conflicting interests between ecology and economy. Recent technological advances have boosted the size and variety of data available to planners, thus challenging conventional approaches bounded on optimized solutions. New models and methods are requested to use such a massive amount of data in integrative schemes addressing a large variety of concerns. Here, we provide an overview on the past, present and future challenges that characterize spatial conservation models supported by OR. By enlarging the spatial, temporal, taxonomic and societal horizons of biodiversity conservation planners navigate around multiple bio-socioeconomic equilibria and are able to decide on cost-effective strategies to improve biodiversity persistence.

In South Sudan, three case-control studies found a positive association between Nodding Syn-drome (NS) and a Mansonella perstans infection. To investigate whether M. perstans could play the primary and sole causal role in the development of NS, we examined blood films of persons with and without epilepsy in rural villages affected by NS in Mahenge, Tanzania, to identify M. perstans infections. Study participants were also examined for onchocercal nodules and skin lesions and tested for the presence of anti-O. volvulus antibodies (Ov16 ELISA). One hundred and thirteen epilepsy cases and 132 controls were enrolled, with a mean age of 28.3 years (interquartile range 22 – 34 years); 125 (51%) were females. Of the persons with epilepsy, 43 (38.1%) met the probable NS criteria. M. perstans infection was absent in all participants, but Ov16 prevalence and oncho-cerciasis-associated skin manifestations were positively associated with epilepsy, including probable NS. Onchocercal nodules in the mothers of cases were also positively associated with epilepsy. In conclusion, in contrast with O. volvulus, M. perstans is likely not endemic in Mahenge and therefore cannot be a co-factor for NS in the area. Hence, this filaria cannot be the primary and sole causal factor in the development of NS.

Introduction: Studies of the socio-economic function of entrepreneurship have emphasized the critical role that entrepreneurial competence and its implementation play at different stages of the education system. In this paper, we seek to determine the entrepreneurial interest of Spanish youth aged between 15 to 18 years of age, who find themselves in the state-regulated education system, at an initial stage in the development of entrepreneurship. A previously validated ad hoc questionnaire was applied through simple random sampling to 1,764 students at a secondary school in Spain. The analysis is done with Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), a technique that reduces the high dimensionality of data through Cooperative Maximum Likelihood Hebbian Learning (CMLHL), applying neurocomputational methods to the educational sciences. Spanish youth expressed a medium level of interest in entrepreneurship. Analysis with ANN shows that education in entrepreneurial competence is an influential aspect of interest in entrepreneurship. As conclusion, educational and curricular reforms must be undertaken to promote the development of entrepreneurial competence at various stages of compulsory education to increase interest in entrepreneurship.

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to estimate the prevalence of chlamydiosis in small ruminants. The study included 133 publications that reported the presence of Chlamydia abortus in 109 and 74 studies in sheep and goats from 45 countries. The prevalence of chlamydiosis was estimated at global, regional, and national levels using meta-analyses of proportions. Meta-regression and cumulative meta-analyses were also performed. Globally, the prevalence of chlamydiosis in sheep and goats was estimated at 20.1% (95% CI: 17.8-22.4) and 14.4% (11.6-17.4), respectively. For sheep, chlamydiosis prevalence was heterogeneous at regional and national levels. South Asia had the highest prevalence (30.6%) and East Asia and Pacific the lowest (14.0%). Nationally, chlamydiosis was more prevalent in Romania, Hungary, and Germany (range 53.3-87.0%) compared to Costa Rica, Australia, and Zimbabwe (4.7-5.2%). Among goats, chlamydiosis prevalence was similar across regions (10.4-19.7%), but varied significantly among countries, 0.0% in Romania and Australia and 91.7% in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In both species, sample size, number of diagnostic techniques, and latitude were significant covariates. Prevalence varied widely in the first decades of publications before stabilizing. Our study found a high prevalence of chlamydiosis in small ruminants, with the pathogen being distributed globally but heterogeneously across countries.

Earthworms are iteroparous organisms with indeterminate growth, i.e. they continue to increase in size throughout their life and after completion of sexual development. Terrestrial oligochaetes vary greatly in size. Depending on the species, adult earthworms can reach between 10 mm and 3 m in length and between &lt;1 mm and &gt;25 mm in width, with most being of length 5-15 cm. Among the more than 7000 species described to date, very few (~20) reach lengths greater than 1 m. The longest earthworm on record is Amynthas mekongianus, which is found in the mud banks of the Mekong River in Southeast Asia and which reaches almost 3 m in length. It is about the same size as Megascolides australis, the ‘Giant Gippsland Earthworm’. These atypically giant earthworm species remain a scientific curiosity in terms of their biology, but they cannot be considered cases of gigantism. Gigantism occurs when organisms are much larger than normal or exhibit excessive growth. Earthworms obtain energy from the organic matter on which they feed, and their growth mainly depends on the quality of the resource and on the species, as well as on food availability, environmental factors, which can directly or indirectly affect growth by modifying food availability, and other factors such as competition. This is particularly evident in earthworms, which display indeterminate growth and large species-dependent variations in size. The biology, life cycle and growth and reproduction rates of Eisenia fetida (Savigny 1826) and Eisenia andrei (Bouché 1972), the earthworm species most commonly used in vermicomposting and vermiculture, have been widely reported. Here we present details of the enormous growth of individual specimens of Eisenia andrei and Dendrobaena hortensis reared under particular culture conditions and fed a special diet. Individuals almost 20 times the average weight of individuals of the species have been obtained. Possible explanations for this interesting phenomenon are discussed.

It was recently shown that urban networks might exhibit two different critical points, one for the percolation of congested links through the network, and another one for the flow of vehicles through the network. It was observed that the percolation critical point happens after the flow critical point, where network throughput is maximized. This result is important because if a causal relationship exists between these two processes, it can be leveraged for improving control methods to avoid network collapse. This paper presents the results of numerical experiments to understand the possible causal relationship between the percolation and flow processes by focusing on the relative timing between the two critical points. The goal is to understand the impacts of important factors such as: (i) urban network type: long- and short-block networks, (ii) signal timing control type: fixed, random, responsive, and (iii) route choice: turning proportions at intersections. We find that the threshold density $k^*_c$ to determine if a link is congested has the main impact on the timing of the percolation transition, where lower values trigger earlier transitions. This implies that $k^*_c$ can be set such that the percolation transition happens before the flow critical point, opening the door for improved congestion management strategies. If $k^*_c$ is set to the average network critical density, maximum network throughput happen simultaneously with the percolation transition. Surprisingly, it appears that these results, and more generally, the relationship between the percolation and flow processes is independent of (i) and (ii) above.

Background: Primary lymphedema is a chronic condition caused by a developmental abnormality of the lymphatic system and its malfunction. Different surgical options such as physiologic and excisional procedures have been proposed. The aim of this study was to present a complete algorithm for the treatment of primary lower extremity lymphedema: Primary LYmphedema Multidisciplinary Approach (P-LYMA). Methods: Nineteen patients were treated according to the P-LYMA. Patients underwent pre- and post-operative complex decongestive therapy (CDT). Different physiologic and excisional procedures were performed independently or in combination. The primary outcome was the circumferential reduction rate (CRR). The Lymphedema Quality of Life Score (LeQOLiS), reduction in the number of episodes of cellulitis, length of stay, and complications were recorded. Results: The mean CRR calculated was 72.8±19.6% after twelve months. The episodes of cellulitis per year decreased from a mean of 1.9±0.8 preoperative to 0.4± 0.6 throughtout follow-up. Two patients experienced minor complications. Mean hospitalization time was 5 days. Patients’ quality of life (LeQOLi score) drastically improved from 70.4±11.6 to 24.2 ±13.9 at twelve months post-op. Conclusion: The P-LYMA algorithm allows to maximize surgical results and improve the quality-of life in patients who suffer from primary lymphedema. CDT is mandatory to optimize results.

Current adaptive cruise control (ACC) systems adopt fixed desired time headway, which leads to an abrupt speed reduction after being cut-in by a lane changer in front or when changing lanes too close to the new leader. In contrast, human drivers behave differently and feature a variable spacing within 20 or 30 seconds right after a cut-in or lane change. Motivated by the smooth transition found in driver relaxation, the paper aims to incorporate relaxation into ACC systems. Based on the open-source ACC platform, Openpilot, Comma.ai, the paper proposes a feasible relaxation model compatible with current factory ACCs, which has also been tested using a market car with stock ACC hardware. The study further investigates the impact of relaxation ACC on traffic operation. Numerical simulation suggests that incorporating relaxation into ACC can help: i) reduce the magnitude of speed perturbations in both cut-in vehicles and followers; ii) stabilize the lane-changing traffic by reducing the speed variance and prevent the lateral propagation of congestion, and iii) increase the average vehicle speed and capacity in merging traffic.

Audio recording in classrooms is a common practice in educational research, with applications ranging from detecting classroom activities to analysing student behaviour. Previous research has employed neural networks for classroom activity detection and speaker role identification. However, these recordings are often affected by background noise that can hinder further analysis, and the literature has only sought to identify noise with general filters and not specifically designed for classrooms. Although the use of high-end microphones and environmental monitoring can mitigate this problem, these solutions can be costly and potentially disruptive to the natural classroom environment. In this context, we propose the development of a neural network model that can specifically detect and filter out background noise in classroom recordings. This model would allow the use of lower quality recordings without compromising analysis capability, thus facilitating data collection in natural educational environments and reducing the costs associated with high-end recording equipment.

Three-Dimensional reconstruction of the corneal surface provides a powerful tool for managing corneal diseases. This study proposes a novel method for reconstructing the corneal surface from elevation point clouds, using modal schemes capable of reproducing corneal shapes using surface polynomial functions. The multivariable polynomial fitting was performed using a non-dominated sorting multivariable genetic algorithm (NS-MVGA). Standard reconstruction methods using least-squares discrete fitting (LSQ) and sequential quadratic programming (SQP) were compared with the evolutionary algorithm-based approach. The study included 49 eyes of 49 patients (ages 11-63) sorted in two groups: control (33 eyes) and keratoconus (KC) (16 eyes). Tomographic information (Sirius, Costruzione Strumenti Oftalmici, Italy) was processed using Matlab. The goodness of fit for each method was evaluated using mean squared error (MSE), measured at the same nodes where the elevation data were collected. Polynomial fitting based on NS-MVGA improves MSE values by 86% compared to LSQ-based methods in healthy patients. Moreover, this new method improves aberrated surface reconstruction by 43% for Amsler-Krumeich (AK) Grade 1 keratoconus patients. Finally, significant improvements were also found in morpho-geometric parameters, such as asphericity and corneal curvature radii.

Oral bone defects occur as a result of trauma, cancer, infections, periodontal diseases, and caries. Autogenic and allogenic grafts are the gold standard used to treat and regenerate damaged or defective bone segments. However, these materials do not possess the antimicrobial properties necessary to inhibit the invasion of the numerous deleterious pathogens present in the oral microbiota. In the present study poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp), and a commercial extract of Humulus lupulus L. (hops) were electrospun into polymeric matrices to assess their po-tential for drug delivery and bone regeneration. The fabricated matrices were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), tensile analysis, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), FT-IR assay, and in vitro hydrolytic degradation. The antimi-crobial properties were evaluated against the oral pathogens Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. The cytocompatibility was proved by the MTT assay. SEM analysis proved the nanostructured matrices have suitable fiber size. The present research provides new information about the interaction of natural compounds with ceramic and polymeric biomaterials. The hop extract and other natural or synthetic medicinal agents can be effectively loaded into PCL fibers and has the potential to be used in biomedical applications.

Data from NASA’s Soil Moisture Active Passive Mission (SMAP) and from the California Cooperative Oceanic Fisheries Investigations (CalCOFI) were used to examine the freshening that occurred during 2015-2016 in the Southern California Current System. Overall the freshening was found to be related to the 2014-2016 Northeast Pacific Warm Anomaly. The primary goal was to determine the feasibility of using SMAP data to observe the surface salinity signal associated with the warming. As a first step direct comparisons were done with salinity from the CalCOFI data at one-meter depth. During 2015 SMAP was saltier than CalCOFI by 0.5 PSU, but biases were reduced to < 0.1 PSU during 2016. South of 33°N, and within 100 km of the coast, SMAP was fresher in 2015 by almost 0.2 PSU. CalCOFI showed freshening of 0.1 PSU. North of 33°N SMAP and CalCOFI saw significant freshening in 2016, SMAP by 0.4 PSU and CalCOFI by 0.2 PSU. Differences between SMAP and CalCOFI are consistent with the increased stratification in 2015 and changes in the mixed layer depth.

Study of micro-RNA regulatory networks (known as miRNA’s or miR’s), during development and in known pathologies have been the basis of study over the past decades. Herein, we recapitulate these findings in order to highlight the best underlying mechanisms found to date. We also seek to elucidate how miRNA dysregulation can be associated with many cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, we discuss miR regulation mechanism during in early development in vivo and invitro. Since many of the miR’s are precursors to transcriptional regulation, we relate back to their molecular control as we can then look together at the fundamental disease they might be exacerbating by this dysregulation.

An exact solution for the Nagel-Schreckenberg model for v_max = 1 is known since the 90s, yet for v_max > 1 it remains an open question. It is conjectured here that this general solution can be generated from the basic solution (for v_max = 1) by a linear coordinate transformation, the shear mapping, which requires no additional parameters in the deterministic case, and two additional parameters otherwise. The proposed solutions show remarkable agreement with existing numerical solutions, except in the congested regime where the Monte Carlo data shows more concavity than the more linear congested branches predicted by the theory. More research is needed to investigate this bias.

Self-organized criticality (SOC) is a celebrated paradigm from the 90’s for understanding dynamical systems naturally driven to its critical point, where the power-law dynamics taking place make predictions practically impossible, such as in stock prices, earthquakes, pandemics and many other problems in science related to phase transitions. Shortly thereafter, it was realized that traffic flow might be in the SOC category, implying that conventional traffic management strategies seeking to maximize the local flows can become detrimental. This paper shows that the Kinematic Wave model with triangular fundamental diagram, and many other related traffic models, indeed exhibit SOC, thanks in part to the fractal nature of traffic exposed here on the one hand, and our need to get to our destinations as soon as possible, on the other hand. Important implications for congestion management of traffic near the critical region are discussed, such as: (i) Jam sizes obey a power-law distribution with exponent 1/2, implying that both its mean and variance become ill-defined and therefore impossible to estimate. (ii) Traffic in the critical region is chaotic in the sense that predictions becomes extremely sensitive to initial conditions. (iii) However, aggregate measures of performance such as delays and average speeds are not heavy tailed, and can be characterized exactly by different scalings of the Airy distribution, (iv) Traffic state time-space “heat maps” are self-affine fractals where the basic unit is a triangle, in the shape of the fundamental diagram, containing 3 traffic states: voids, capacity and jams. This fractal nature of traffic flow calls for analysis methods currently not used in our field.

The analogy between the theory of phase transitions in simple fluids and vehicular traffic flow has long been suspected, promising a new level of understanding of urban congestion by standing on one of the firmer foundations in physics. The obstacle has been the interpretation of the thermal energy of the gas-particle system, which remains unknown. This paper proposes the flow of cars through the network as a viable interpretation, where the fundamental diagram for traffic flow would be analogous to the coexistence curve in gas-liquid phase transitions. Thanks to the power-law form of the coexistence curve, it was possible to formalize that the resulting network traffic model belongs to the Kardar-Parisi-Zhang universality class. The scaling relationships arising in this universality class are found to be consistent with West's scaling theory for cities. It is shown that congestion costs (delays + fuel consumption) scale superlinearly with city population, possibly and worryingly more so than predicted by West's theory. Implications for sustainability and resiliency are discussed.

It has been suggested that the measured magnetic properties of hydrides under pressure claimed to be high temperature superconductors indicate that the materials are granular superconductors. Such materials will show reduced or no magnetic field expulsion under field cooling, and will trap magnetic fields when the external magnetic field is removed. They will also exhibit hysteretic behavior in magnetoresistance and other transport properties. Here we point out that hysteresis in transport properties has never been reported for hydrides under pressure. Its presence, with the expected features, would indicate that the materials trap magnetic flux, hence that they can sustain persistent currents without dissipation, something that all superconductors can do. Conversely, its absence would indicate that these materials are not superconductors.

In Ref. [1] Snider et al reported room temperature superconductivity in carbonaceous sulfur hydride (CSH) under high pressure. Recently the data for the temperature dependent ac magnetic susceptibility shown in figures of Ref [1] have appeared in the form of tables corresponding to different pressures [2]. Here we provide an analysis of the data for a pressure of 160 GPa. This work was performed in collaboration with D. van der Marel.

Applying a procedure similar to that of E.S. Bring, by using a 4^th degree Tschirnhaus transformation, it was possible to transform the Bring-Jerrard normal quintic (BJQ) equation into a De Moivre form (DMQ), so that it could be solved by radicals. The general solution by radicals of the De Moivre equations of any degree is presented. By the same procedure the BJSx (normal sextic) equation was taken to another one without the 2^nd, 4^th and 6^th terms which was transformed into a cubic (solvable) equation. By applying a 6^th degree Tschirnhaus transformation to the BJSp (normal septic) equation its binormal (without the 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th terms) form was obtained.

Room temperature superconductivity has recently been reported for a carbonaceous sulfur hydride (CSH) under high pressure by Snider et al [1]. The paper reports sharp drops in magnetic susceptibility as a function of temperature for five different pressures, that are interpreted as signaling a superconducting transition. Here I question the validity and faithfulness of the magnetic susceptibility data presented in the paper by comparison with the measured raw data reported by two of the authors of ref. [2]. This casts doubt on the assertion of the paper [1] that the susceptibility measurements support the case for superconductivity in this compound.

Applying a procedure similar to that of E.S. Bring, by using a 4^th degree Tschirnhaus transformation, it was possible to transform the Bring-Jerrard normal quintic (BJQ) equation into a De Moivre form (DMQ), so that it could be solved by radicals. The general solution by radicals of the De Moivre equations of any degree is presented. By the same procedure the BJSx (normal sextic) equation was taken to another one without the 2^nd, 4^th and 6^th terms which was transformed into a cubic (solvable) equation. By applying a 6^th degree Tschirnhaus transformation to the BJSp (normal septic) equation its binormal (without the 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th terms) form was obtained.

This paper shows that the percolation clusters from elementary cellular automata {30, 45, 60, 86, 99, 105, 129, 150, 153, 169, 182, 183, 184, 195 and 225 exhibit strong power law behavior, either under random initial conditions, a single occupied cell, or both. Most of the tail exponents are less than unity, implying diverging means and variances of cluster sizes. The analysis presented here is admittedly coarse in an effort to expedite its dissemination.

After peripheral nerve injury, axon and myelin regeneration are key events for optimal clinical improvements. We have previously shown that early bone marrow mononuclear cell (BMMC) transplantation exerts beneficial effects on myelin regeneration. In the present study we analyze whether there is a temporal window in which BMMC migrate more efficiently to damaged nerves while still retaining their positive effects. Adult Wistar rats of both sexes, with sciatic nerve crush were systemically transplanted with BMMC at different days post injury. Vehicle-treated, naïve, and sham rats were also included. Morphological, functional, and behavioral analyses were performed in nerves from each experimental group at different survival times. BMMC transplantation between 0 and 7 days after injury resulted in the largest number of nested cells within the injured sciatic nerve, which supports the therapeutic value of BMMC administration within the first week after injury. Most importantly, later BMMC administration 7 days after sciatic nerve crush was associated with neuropathic pain reversion, improved morphological appearance of the damaged nerves, and a tendency toward faster recovery in the sciatic functional index and electrophysiological parameters. Our results thus support the notion that even delayed BMMC treatment may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for peripheral nerve injuries.

This study presents a detailed assessment on the impact of the Brazilian legal framework related to the access and benefit sharing provisions of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity. The research is based on a comprehensive dataset that was systematically collected over several years, directly from the official government bodies responsible for its implementation. The aim of the study is to contribute to a fact-based discussion on the effectiveness of national ABS laws, focusing on the Brazilian legal framework, first established in the year 2000 and revised in 2015, as a case example. This study balances the costs and benefits of the Brazilian ABS system and assesses the regulatory challenges it poses to individuals, companies, and institutions that perform research, share knowledge, develop, manufacture or market products derived from Brazilian biodiversity. The study indicates that, after over 22 years of operation, the regulatory challenges are still real and relevant, and that the significant volume of data collected from users on access, prior commercialization and shipment of genetic materials abroad was never systematically assessed by the agencies in charge. Besides, it shows that the costs incurred by the government in managing the policy itself have been higher than the economic benefits it has made possible, and that the institutional mechanisms in place since 2015 have not been able to allocate the monetary benefits contributed by users to the National Benefit Sharing Fund to any projects aimed at developing sustainable uses or preserving Brazilian biodiversity.

Today, enterococci (mainly Enterococcus faecalis) are one of the main causes of infective endocarditis in the world, generally affecting an elderly and fragile population, with a high mortality rate. enterococci are intrinsically resistant to many commonly used antimicrobial agents. All enterococci exhibit decreased susceptibility to penicillin and ampicillin, as well as high-level resistance to most cephalosporins and all semi-synthetic penicillins, as the result of expression of low-affinity penicillin-binding proteins, that precludes an unacceptable number of therapeutic failures with monotherapy with these drugs. For years, the synergistic combination of penicillins and aminoglycosides was the cornerstone of treatment, but the emergence of strains with high resistance to aminoglycosides led to the search for new alternatives, such as dual beta-lactam therapy. The development of multi-drug resistant strains of Enterococcus faecium is a matter of considerable concern due to its probable spread to E. faecalis and have forced the search of new alternatives with the combination of daptomycin, fosfomycin or tigecycline. Some of them have scarce clinical experience and others are still under investigation and will be analyzed in this review. In addition, the need for prolonged treatment (6-8 weeks) to avoid relapses has led to the consideration of viable options such as outpatient parenteral therapies or long-acting administrations with the new lipoglycopeptides (dalbavancin or oritavancin), and sequential oral treatments, which will also be discussed.

Background: Despite the abundant scientific literature on entrepreneurship, there is still only limited information on young students’ entrepreneurial intentions. The reasons may be generally found in the different conceptual approaches to entrepreneurial intention and particularly in the variables that regulate and act as antecedents to such intentions. This bias has generated different lines of investigation into the factors relating to entrepreneurial intention among students: one is centered on the variables that influence entrepreneurial intention, in particular, relational, educational, and psychological variables; and the other is centered on the antecedents of entrepreneurial intention, among which is entrepreneurial interest. Methods: In the present paper, we seek to analyze the relationship between the entrepreneurial interest of Spanish youth and a set of socio-educational, psychological, and health-related variables using principal component analysis. A previously validated ad hoc questionnaire was administered to 1764 students (15–18 years old). Results: Notably, few Spanish youth expressed significantly high entrepreneurial interest; those who did were mostly men with a family tradition of entrepreneurial parents, who held high perceptions of their health and quality of life and considered it important in business to detect opportunities beforehand and to create employment. Conclusions: Their principal motives were to improve their professional development, to put their ideas into practice, and to achieve economic independence. This paper proposes the early detection of entrepreneurial interests in young people in order to reinforce these interests as potential long-term initiatives.

The stimulus-secretion coupling of glucose-induced release is generally attributed to the metabolism of the hexose in the β-cells in the glycolytic pathway and the citric acid cycle. Glucose metabolism generates an increased cytosolic concentration of ATP and of the ATP/ADP ratio that closes the ATP-dependent K+-channel at the plasma membrane by the interaction of ATP with the regulatory Kir6.2 channel subunit The resultant depolarization of the β-cells opens voltage-dependent Ca2+-channels at the plasma membrane that allow an increase of the cytosolic cation concentration that triggers the exocytosis of insulin secretory granules. The resultant secretory response evolves in time as a biphasic secretion with a first and transient peak of approximately 10 minutes duration followed by a sustained phase of secretion lasting as long as the stimulus. Whereas the first transient peak can be reproduced by a simple depolarization of β-cells with high extracellular KCl maintaining the KATP-channels open with diazoxide, the sustained phase is agreed to depend on the participation of some metabolic signal that remains to be determined Our group has been investigating for several years the participation of β-cell GABA metabolism, together with that of glucose (the β-cell “specific” nutrient secretagogue) and some other “metabolic” secretagogues (branched-chain alpha-ketoacids and a mixture of L-Leucine + L-glutamine, at supraphysiological concentrations) in their mechanism of stimulation of insulin secretion. All three types of stimuli promote the flux in the GABA shunt of rat islets by different metabolic pathways that end in the production of α-ketoglutarate. This citric acid cycle intermediary is preferentially derived to the GABA shunt instead of its continuous oxidation in the citric acid cycle. Islet content of GABA is significantly suppressed by all the stimuli and blocking the GABA shunt with gabaculine, or ϒ-vinyl-GABA (GABAT inhibitors), diminish the insulin secretory responses as well as total ATP and the ATP/ADP ratio. It is concluded that GABA metabolism is increased in parallel to glucose metabolism and is significantly contributing to the magnitude of the insulin secretory response. Its possible implication in β-cells degradation in type-2 (perhaps also in type 1) diabetes is suggested.

Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the apicomplexa protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. This disease is a health burden, mainly in pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) has proved to be an important molecule that could drive resistance against a variety of infections, including intracellular parasites such as Plasmodium falciparum and Trypanozoma cruzi, among others. However, to date it has not been explored the role of DHEA on T. gondii. In here, we demonstrated for the first time the toxoplasmicidal effect of DHEA on extracellular tachyzoites. Ultrastructural analysis of treated parasites showed that DHEA alters the cytoskeleton structures, leading to the loss of the organelle structure and organization, as well as the loss of the cellular shape. In vitro treatment with DHEA reduces the viability of extracellular tachyzoites and passive invasion process. 2D SDS-PAGE analysis revealed that in the presence of the hormone a progesterone receptor membrane component (PGRMC) with a cytochrome b5 family heme/steroid binding domain-containing protein was expressed, while the expression of proteins that are essential for motility and virulence was highly reduced. Finally, in vivo DHEA treatment induced a reduction of parasitic load in male, but not in female mice.

Dump design and scheduling are critical elements to effective mine planning, especially if several of them are required in large-scale open pit mines. Infrastructure capital and transportation costs are considerable from an early stage in the mining project, and through the life-of-mine as these dumps gradually become immense structures. Delivered mining rates, as well as certain spatial and physical constraints, provide a set of parameters of mathematical and economic relationship that creates opportunities for modelling and thus facilitates the measuring and optimization of ultimate dump design by using programming and empirical techniques while achieving economic objectives. This paper presents a methodology to model and optimize the design of a mine dump by minimizing the total haulage costs. The proposed methodology consists on: (i) Formulation of a dump model based on a system of equations relying on multiple relevant parameters; (ii) Solves by minimizing the total cost using linear programming and determines a ‘preliminary’ dump design; (iii) Through a series of iterations, modifies the ‘preliminary’ footprint by projecting it to the topography and creates the ultimate dump design. Finally, an example application for a waste rock dump illustrates this methodology.

The literature on substance use usually extracts conclusions from data with correlational methods. Our study shows the usefulness of complementing ordered logistic regression (OLR) and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to assess factors inducing cannabis consumption in a sample of 1,935 teenagers. OLR showed a significant influence of gender (odd ratio (OR) =0.383, p<0.0001), parental monitoring (OR=0.587, p=0.0201); religiousness (OR=0.476, p=0.006); parental tolerance to substance use (OR=42.01, p<0.0001) and having close peers that consume substances (OR=5.60, p<0.0001). FsQCA has allowed fitting linkages between factors from a complementary perspective. (1) Coverage (cov) and consistency (cons) attained by solutions explaining use (cons=0.808, cov=0.357) are clearly lower than by recipes of non-use (cons=0.952, cov=0.869) (2) The interaction of gender, a tolerant family to use and the attitude toward substances by peers is very consistent to explain cannabis use. (3) The most important recipe explaining resistance to cannabis is simply parental disagreement with substance consumption (cons=0.956, cov=0.861) (4) Factors as gender, religiosity, parental monitoring and age show also a relevant impact on attitude toward cannabis use. However, whereas some of them impact symmetrically on use and non-use this does not follow in factors such as parental monitoring or age.

The aim of this study was to provide information on the levels of toxic (Cd and Pb) and essential (Cu, Fe and Zn) elements in cow’s milk produced in the State of Pernambuco (Brazil). A total of 142 samples of raw milk were collected, and the concentrations of essential and toxic elements were determined by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. In almost 30 % of the samples analyzed, the Pb content exceeded the maximum level established in the Brazilian legislation (0.05 mg/l). By contrast, in all samples the Cd content was below the maximum allowable level (0.02 mg/L). The essential trace elements Cu, Fe and Zn were generally present at lower concentrations than reported in other studies and can be considered within the deficient range for cow’s milk. Statistical and chemometric procedures were used to evaluate the main factors influencing the metal concentrations (proximity to major roads, presence of effluents, and milking method). The study findings demonstrate that the proximity of the farms to major roads influences the concentrations of Cd, Pb and Cu and that this is the main factor explaining the Pb content of milk. In addition, the presence of effluents influenced the concentrations of Cu, while no relationship between the metal content and the milking method was observed. Thus, in accordance with the study findings, consumption of cow’s milk produced in the region can be considered a risk to public health due to the high concentrations of Pb and the low concentrations of other essential minerals such as Cu, Zn and Fe in some of the milk samples.

This work addresses the challenge of EEG visual multiclass classification into 40 classes for Brain-Computer interface applications, by using deep learning architectures. The visual multiclass classification approach offers BCI applications a significant advantage, since it allows the supervision of more than one BCI interaction, considering that each class label supervises a BCI task. However, because of the nonlinearity and nonstationarity of EEG signals, performing multiclassifiers based on EEG features remains a significant challenge for BCI systems. In the present work, mutual information-based discriminant channel selection and Minimum-Norm Estimate algorithms are implemented to select discriminant channels and enhance EEG data. Hence, deep EEGNet and Convolutional-recurrent neural networks are implemented separately to classify EEG data of image visualization into 40 labels. By using the k-fold cross-validation approach, average classification accuracies of 94.8% and 89.8% were obtained by implementing the aforementioned network architectures, respectively. Satisfactory results obtained with this method offer a new implementation opportunity for multi-task BCI applications by utilizing a reduced number of channels (&lt;50%), compared to those presented in the related literature where the whole set of channels is used.

There are laws and rights aimed at people with disabilities, especially those with Mild Intellectual Disability (LDD), who actively participate in society but face barriers in learning and participating in various activities. In Colombia, where 1.3 million people with disabilities are registered, 16.8% correspond to the category of DIL, some of whom are part of the economically active population. Despite this, significant employment gaps persist.In order to address this gap, this research focuses on the analysis of the specific problems related to the labor inclusion of people with IDL in logistics environments, particularly in cold rooms. The aim is to prevent occupational hazards through the application of Industry 4.0 technologies.Through the collaboration of the Analytics and Design Research Seedbed, with entrepreneurs and experts in the field, significant challenges in labor inclusion in low-temperature environments were identified. The agile Scrum methodology was used to develop a prototype of an application that addresses these issues. This prototype meets the functional and non-functional requirements necessary to ensure the protection and prevention of risks for workers with DIL who perform functions in refrigerated rooms.This prototype manages to provide an inclusive alternative for people with disability Intellectual Light, challenging business cultural paradigms, by integrating mobile devices with Industry 4.0 technologies, encouraging greater interaction between machines and human beings, thus prioritizing the health and safety of employees in their daily activities.

Several life contingency agreements are based on the assumption that policyholders have impaired life expectancy attributable to factors such as lifestyle, social class, or preexisting health issues. Quantifying two crucial variables, augmented death probabilities and the discount rate of projected cash flows, is essential for pricing such agreements. Information regarding the correct values of these parameters is subject to vagueness and imprecision, which further intensifies if impairments must be considered. This study proposes modelling mortality and interest rates using a generalization of fuzzy numbers (FNs), known as intuitionistic fuzzy numbers (IFNs). Consequently, this paper extends the literature on life contingency pricing with fuzzy parameters, where uncertainty in variables, such as interest rates and death probabilities, is modelled using FNs. While FNs introduce epistemic uncertainty, the use of IFNs adds bipolarity to the analysis by incorporating both positive and negative information regarding actuarial variables. Our analysis focuses on two agreements involving policyholders with impaired life expectancy: determining the annuity payment in a substandard annuity and pricing a life settlement over a whole life insurance policy. In particular, we emphasize modelling interest rates and survival probabilities using triangular intuitionistic fuzzy numbers (TIFNs) owing to their ease of interpretation and implementation.

We consider two abstract systems of parabolic-hyperbolic type that model thermoelastic problems. We study the influence of the physical constants and the initial data on the nonexistence of global solutions that in our framework are produced by the blow-up in finite time of the norm of the solution in the phase space. We employ a differential inequality to find sufficient conditions that produce the blow-up. To that end, we construct a set that is positive invariant for any positive value of the initial energy. As a result we found that the coupling with the parabolic equation stabilizes the system, as well as the damping term in the hyperbolic equation. Moreover, for any pair of positive values $(\xi,\epsilon)$, there exist initial data such that the corresponding solution with initial energy $\xi$ blows-up at a finite time less than $\epsilon$. Our purpose is to improve results previously published in the literature.

Databases are by far the most valuable asset of companies. Since the need was seen not only to count but also to have some type of record of elements such as crops, animals, money, properties and that this record could be consulted and modified according to the situation, that is where the first database was born. , and after that, these databases cannot be disorganized, they also need to be managed and administered under established standards that facilitate their understanding and management not only by their creators but by the other people who subsequently administer them. Databases and database management systems have an interesting evolutionary history that deserves to be analyzed and this is the objective of this document, where it is sought to understand. Along with databases and their management systems, data mining or Data mining arises that in order not to extend ourselves so much, it is the job of finding common patterns in various data sources and in what way they can be used to predict situations or results of various circumstances; We also focus on the other topic that we will present, Oracle data mining, which roughly is to merge data mining with Oracle, which makes it a powerful tool for obtaining information and predicting results based on statistics.In this article we will study and analyze the ideas, concepts and basic examples that make up SGBD and Data Mining and, we will try to go deeper into this topic, the use of decision techniques such as advanced statistical algorithms. We also present a fictitious example of the application of these techniques: predicting which products can be sold based on their relationship with others. we will give a brief explanation of association rules, data mining cycle and the types of learning and the evolution that data mining has had.

The escape and establishment of Iberian wild goats, Capra pyrenaica, from an enclosure in the 1990s marked the beginning of the recovery of the species in the Pyrenees. This population has occupied part of the Prepyrenees and has contacted another population reintroduced in France since 2014. It coexists with other wild ungulates, including the feral and domestic goats Capra hircus that has been living free since the 1960s. Today it’s the largest Iberian wild goat Pyrenean population. Between 2006 and 2022 we monitored the population and its expansion based on vantage points, itineraries and testimonies. The results indicate: (i) a population, of uncertain genetic origin, in numerical (15% average annual growth) and areal expansion, with the capacity to connect with other populations; (ii) an estimate of at least 500 individuals; (iii) in the process of expansion in contact with Iberian wild goats from France; (iv) sympatry with feral and domestic goat population in its main nucleus whose estimate exceeds 2000 specimens and (v) hybridization with feral and domestic goats. In 2022 sustainable hunt started with a hunting quota of 20 individuals. Genetic characterization and the establishment of an international coordinated monitoring are two of the current priorities.

Automated Guided Vehicles are self-guided vehicles used in manufacturing and warehouses for material transport. They play a vital role in just-in-time material delivery, ensuring smooth production lines. However, disruptions in their fixed routes can lead to efficiency losses. This paper studies unexpected disruptions in mobile robot routes, assessing the costs of rectification using the E* analysis. The study highlights the significant additional cost of such disruptions, underscoring the importance of their consideration in AGV route planning to enhance system resilience.