Viable system model and the project management

The application of Viable System Model to project management structure has been hardly done in the literature. This research aims to fill the lack between the projects management and the analysis of VSM by using the guide to the project management body of knowledge (PMBOK), sixth edition, as a diagnostic analysis tool for assessing the viability. The research is based on a modified Viable System Model for the analysis of systems. The research establishes how PMBOK can cover the requirements for an application of Viable System Model in the project management field. The research is focused on to determine the significance and potential use of PMBOK as a tool, which methodology might link Viable System Model and the project management.La aplicación del Modelo de Sistemas Viables a la estructura de la gestión de proyectos apenas se ha tratado en la literatura especializada. Este trabajo tiene como objetivo cubrir la falta existente entre la gestión de proyectos y el análisis del Modelo de Sistemas Viables. Para ello, se utiliza la Guía de los Fundamentos para la Dirección de Proyectos (PMBOK), sexta edición, como herramienta de análisis de la estimación de la viabilidad. La investigación llevada a cabo se basa en un Modelo de Sistemas Viables modificado para el análisis de sistemas, donde se establece cómo el PMBOK puede cubrir los requisitos de la aplicación del Modelo de Sistemas Viables en el campo de la gestión de proyectos. El trabajo presentado se centra en la relevancia y el uso del PMBOK como un instrumento que aspira a vincular ambos campos.Departamento de Organización de Empresas y Comercialización e Investigación de MercadosMáster en Dirección de Proyecto

Advanced Modelling of Helicopter Nonlinear Dynamics and Aerodynamics

The work presented here provides a comprehensive dynamic and aerodynamic helicopter model. The possible applications of this work are wide including, control systems applications, reference and trajectory tracking methods implementation amongst others. The model configuration corresponds to a Sikorsky helicopter; a main rotor in perpendicular combination with a tail rotor. Also, a particular model of unmanned aerial vehicle has been modelled as part of collaboration with the La Laguna University (Spain). The modelling tool is VehicleSim, a program that builds rigid body systems, solves the nonlinear equations of motion and generates the time histories of the corresponding state variables of the vehicle under study. VehicleSim is able to provide the linearised equations of motion in a Matlab file and the symbolic state-space model. This is useful when control systems are to be designed. The main rotor model accounts for flap, lag and feather motions for each blade as well as for their nonlinear dynamic coupling. The tail rotor is modelled including the flap-feather coupling via delta three angle. The main and tail rotors' angular velocities are implemented by PID controllers. Main rotor linear and nonlinear equations are derived and validated by comparison with the theory. Main rotor flap and lag degrees of freedom are validated using frequency domain approaches in the absence of external forces. Also, fuselage-main rotor interaction is studied and validated by using modal analysis and root locus methodology. Vibrations originated at the main rotor are simulated and their effects on the fuselage are examined by a Short Time Fourier transformation. The aerodynamic model uses blade element theory on the main-tail rotors. Hover, climb, descent and forward flight conditions are simulated and they allow the helicopter to follow certain trajectories. Finally, the ensuing vibrations when an external perturbation is applied to the main rotor are investigated

The effects of European recommendations on the validation of lifelong learning: A quality assurance model for VET in Spain

Producción CientíficaValidation is an effective procedure for recognising the skills and knowledge acquired by individuals. However, the validation mechanisms in each country are not always easy to understand, especially due to a lack of information/data. The aim of this paper is to design a management system based on processes for the accreditation of professional competences acquired by work experience in Spain, considering European regulations. This is carried out through a contextualization of both regulatory frameworks through a bibliographic review, as well as the analysis of the quantitative and qualitative outcomes of the surveys that groups of experts involved in these tasks/procedures completed in Spain. All this has made it possible to design a model for the validation of learning acquired through professional experience as well as non-formal and informal channels in Europe and Spain, which facilitates the process of accreditation of competences

Is ultra-violet radiation the main force shaping molecular evolution of varicella-zoster virus?

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Varicella (chickenpox) exhibits a characteristic epidemiological pattern which is associated with climate. In general, primary infections in tropical regions are comparatively less frequent among children than in temperate regions. This peculiarity regarding varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection among certain age groups in tropical regions results in increased susceptibility during adulthood in these regions. Moreover, this disease shows a cyclic behavior in which the number of cases increases significantly during winter and spring. This observation further supports the participation of environmental factors in global epidemiology of chickenpox. However, the underlying mechanisms responsible for this distinctive disease behavior are not understood completely. In a recent publication, Philip S. Rice has put forward an interesting hypothesis suggesting that ultra-violet (UV) radiation is the major environmental factor driving the molecular evolution of VZV.</p> <p>Discussion</p> <p>While we welcomed the attempt to explain the mechanisms controlling VZV transmission and distribution, we argue that Rice's hypothesis takes lightly the circulation of the so called "temperate VZV genotypes" in tropical regions and, to certain degree, overlooks the predominance of such lineages in certain non-temperate areas. Here, we further discuss and present new information about the overwhelming dominance of temperate VZV genotypes in Mexico regardless of geographical location and climate.</p> <p>Summary</p> <p>UV radiation does not satisfactorily explain the distribution of VZV genotypes in different tropical and temperate regions of Mexico. Additionally, the cyclic behavior of varicella does not shown significant differences between regions with different climates in the country. More studies should be conducted to identify the factors directly involved in viral spreading. A better understanding of the modes of transmissions exploited by VZV and their effect on viral fitness is likely to facilitate the implementation of preventive measures for disease control.</p

Vibration reduction for vision systems on board unmanned aerial vehicles using a neuro-fuzzy controller

In this paper, an intelligent control approach based on neuro-fuzzy systems performance is presented, with the objective of counteracting the vibrations that affect the low-cost vision platform onboard an unmanned aerial system of rotating nature. A scaled dynamical model of a helicopter is used to simulate vibrations on its fuselage. The impact of these vibrations on the low-cost vision system will be assessed and an intelligent control approach will be derived in order to reduce its detrimental influence. Different trials that consider a neuro-fuzzy approach as a fundamental part of an intelligent semi-active control strategy have been carried out. Satisfactory results have been achieved compared to those obtained by means of vibration reduction passive techniques

Improving the Conservation and Use of Traditional Germplasm through Breeding for Local Adaptation: The Case of the Castellfollit del Boix Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Landrace

[EN] The dramatic reduction in the diversity of crops in the last century is often attributed to the consolidation of scientific breeding, probably because the two processes have occurred at the same time. We carried out a breeding program to enhance the Castellfollit del Boix landrace of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in a low-input environment to determine the effects of breeding on a landrace at risk of disappearing. The program increased the number of accessions conserved ex situ and obtained more efficient genotypes that are less likely to be abandoned by farmer without altering the characteristics that consumers appreciate most. As a result, the availability of the product, its promotion, and its use have increased. We propose a Conservation Potential Index to measure the impact of changes in the crop¿s epiphenotype, and also apply it to a set of landraces from several crops. We argue that scientific breeding and information gathered in the context of genetic improvement programs can help to conserve biodiversity when they aim to adapt materials to different local environments, rather than having a negative impact on the biodiversity of crops. This approach contrasts with the genetic erosion that results from efforts to homogenize environments by increasing inputs, so that a few improved varieties adapted to these environments can be grown.This research was funded by Ajuntament de Castellfollit del Boix, Consell Comarcal del Bages and Diputacio de Barcelona.Casals-Missio, J.; Rivera, A.; Rull-Ferré, A.; Romero Del Castillo-Shelly, R.; Sabaté, J.; Sans, S.; Soler Aleixandre, S.... (2019). Improving the Conservation and Use of Traditional Germplasm through Breeding for Local Adaptation: The Case of the Castellfollit del Boix Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Landrace. Agronomy. 9(12):1-17. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy9120889S117912Louwaars, N. P. (2018). Plant breeding and diversity: A troubled relationship? Euphytica, 214(7). doi:10.1007/s10681-018-2192-5Gollin, D., Morris, M., & Byerlee, D. (2005). Technology Adoption in Intensive Post‐Green Revolution Systems. American Journal of Agricultural Economics, 87(5), 1310-1316. doi:10.1111/j.1467-8276.2005.00824.xCasañas, F., Simó, J., Casals, J., & Prohens, J. (2017). Toward an Evolved Concept of Landrace. Frontiers in Plant Science, 08. doi:10.3389/fpls.2017.00145Sánchez, E., Sifres, A., Casañas, F., & Nuez, F. (2007). Common bean (Phaseolus vulgarisL.) landraces in Catalonia, a Mesoamerican germplasm hotspot to be preserved. The Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology, 82(4), 529-534. doi:10.1080/14620316.2007.11512269Díez, M. J., De la Rosa, L., Martín, I., Guasch, L., Cartea, M. E., Mallor, C., … Casañas, F. (2018). Plant Genebanks: Present Situation and Proposals for Their Improvement. the Case of the Spanish Network. Frontiers in Plant Science, 9. doi:10.3389/fpls.2018.01794ROMERO DEL CASTILLO, R., COSTELL, E., PLANS, M., SIMÓ, J., & CASAÑAS, F. (2012). A STANDARDIZED METHOD OF PREPARING COMMON BEANS (PHASEOLUS VULGARIS L.) FOR SENSORY ANALYSIS. Journal of Sensory Studies, 27(3), 188-195. doi:10.1111/j.1745-459x.2012.00381.xROMERO DEL CASTILLO, R., VALERO, J., CASAÑAS, F., & COSTELL, E. (2008). TRAINING, VALIDATION AND MAINTENANCE OF A PANEL TO EVALUATE THE TEXTURE OF DRY BEANS (PHASEOLUS VULGARIS L.). Journal of Sensory Studies, 23(3), 303-319. doi:10.1111/j.1745-459x.2008.00157.xDawson, J. C., Murphy, K. M., & Jones, S. S. (2007). Decentralized selection and participatory approaches in plant breeding for low-input systems. Euphytica, 160(2), 143-154. doi:10.1007/s10681-007-9533-0Almirall, A., Bosch, L., Romero del Castillo, R., Rivera, A., & Casañas, F. (2010). ‘Croscat’ Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), a Prototypical Cultivar within the ‘Tavella Brisa’ Type. HortScience, 45(3), 432-433. doi:10.21273/hortsci.45.3.432Plans, M., Simó, J., Casañas, F., & Sabaté, J. (2012). Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Analysis of Seed Coats of Common Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.): A Potential Tool for Breeding and Quality Evaluation. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 60(3), 706-712. doi:10.1021/jf204110kPlans, M., Simó, J., Casañas, F., del Castillo, R. R., Rodriguez-Saona, L. E., & Sabaté, J. (2014). Estimating sensory properties of common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) by near infrared spectroscopy. Food Research International, 56, 55-62. doi:10.1016/j.foodres.2013.12.003COYNE, D. P. (1967). Photoperiodism: Inheritance and Linkage Studies in Phaseolus vulgaris. Journal of Heredity, 58(6), 313-314. doi:10.1093/oxfordjournals.jhered.a107628Koinange, E. M. K., Singh, S. P., & Gepts, P. (1996). Genetic Control of the Domestication Syndrome in Common Bean. Crop Science, 36(4), 1037-1045. doi:10.2135/cropsci1996.0011183x003600040037xManual de bones pràctiques. Mongeta de Castellfollit del Boixhttp://fundaciomiquelagusti.com/es/2017/03/04/projecte-de-recuperacio-i-millora-genetica-de-la-mongeta-de-castellfollit-del-boix/Sans, S., Casals, J., & Simó, J. (2018). Improving the Commercial Value of the ‘Calçot’ (Allium cepa L.) Landrace: Influence of Genetic and Environmental Factors in Chemical Composition and Sensory Attributes. Frontiers in Plant Science, 9. doi:10.3389/fpls.2018.01465Casañas, F., Pujolà, M., del Castillo, R. R., Almirall, A., Sánchez, E., & Nuez, F. (2006). Variability in some texture characteristics and chemical composition of common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, 86(14), 2445-2449. doi:10.1002/jsfa.2638De la Iglesia, B., Potter, J. F., Poulter, N. R., Robins, M. M., & Skinner, J. (2010). Performance of the ASSIGN cardiovascular disease risk score on a UK cohort of patients from general practice. Heart, 97(6), 491-499. doi:10.1136/hrt.2010.203364Ross, T., & Sumner, J. (2002). A simple, spreadsheet-based, food safety risk assessment tool. International Journal of Food Microbiology, 77(1-2), 39-53. doi:10.1016/s0168-1605(02)00061-2BITOCCHI, E., NANNI, L., ROSSI, M., RAU, D., BELLUCCI, E., GIARDINI, A., … PAPA, R. (2009). Introgression from modern hybrid varieties into landrace populations of maize (Zea maysssp.maysL.) in central Italy. Molecular Ecology, 18(4), 603-621. doi:10.1111/j.1365-294x.2008.04064.xVan Heerwaarden, J., Doebley, J., Briggs, W. H., Glaubitz, J. C., Goodman, M. M., de Jesus Sanchez Gonzalez, J., & Ross-Ibarra, J. (2010). Genetic signals of origin, spread, and introgression in a large sample of maize landraces. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 108(3), 1088-1092. doi:10.1073/pnas.1013011108Prada, D. (2009). 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Self-reported side effects after vaccination against COVID-19 in Honduras

Background: In December 2019, in the community of Wuhan, in Hubei, China, a series of atypical pneumonia cases with severe course was identified and the new disease was called COVID-19. By March 2020, the World Health Organization declared a pandemic. Understanding SARS-CoV2 genomic allowed the scientific community to develop vaccine candidates against COVID-19. Over 41 scientific groups conducted clinical trials to prove vaccines efficiency, efficacy, and safety.Method: A cross sectional retrospective study performed in Honduras since July 21st, 2021, to December 1st, 2021. This study included the population who received at least one dose of any COVID-19 vaccine. The data were collected using an online survey using Google Forms and a QR code to make it easier for the participants to access the survey and to avoid collecting any personal data from the participants. The symptoms were self-reported. A total of 2108 participants were included in the study through the online survey.Results: The average age of the participants was 34.61±11.129 years with higher frequency of people between 20-29 years old. In 60.7% of the cases, side effects were reported after the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine or in cases when only one dose was required. Only 1916 received a second dose of COVID-19 vaccine and 38.9% of them presented side effects after that second dose. The most common side effect is pain in the injection site (49.7% and 30.7%). The most common systemic side effects are fever (34.8% and 17.5%), headache (33.5% and 19.1%) and myalgia (32.8% and 17.6%). Conclusions: The side effects reported by the population after any vaccination against COVID-19 are mainly systemic effects like fever, myalgia and headache, while the most common local side effect is pain in the injection site. The rates of side effects are higher in females, and younger participants after both doses, the differences are statistically significant

Primer consenso en leucemia linfocítica crónica de la agrupación mexicana para el estudio de la hematología: epidemiología, diagnóstico y tratamiento

La leucemia linfocítica crónica (LLC) es la leucemia crónica menos frecuente en México. En consideración a los avances recientes, a una mejor clasificación pronóstica y a la introducción de nuevas modalidades terapéuticas, la Agrupación Mexicana para el Estudio de la Hematología organizó el primer consenso mexicano en leucemia linfocítica crónica. Este consenso se llevó a cabo en Cancún, Quintana Roo, México, en Septiembre del 2007. Los objetivos de esta reunión fueron actualizar y compartir los conocimientos de la enfermedad entre los especialistas mexicanos, con el fin de mejorar el diagnóstico y el pronóstico de la LLC en México. En el artículo se discute los aspectos clínicos, diagnósticos y terapéuticos de la LLC

Pre-deployment verification and predicted mapping speed of MUSCAT

The Mexico-UK Submillimetre Camera for AsTronomy (MUSCAT) is a 1.1 mm receiver consisting of 1,500 lumped-element kinetic inductance detectors (LEKIDs) for the Large Millimeter Telescope (LMT; Volcán Sierra Negra in Puebla, México). MUSCAT utilises the maximum field of view of the LMT's upgraded 50-metre primary mirror and is the first México-UK collaboration to deploy a millimetre/sub-mm receiver on the Large Millimeter Telescope. Using a simplistic simulator, we estimate a predicted mapping speed for MUSCAT by combining the measured performance of MUSCAT with the observed sky conditions at the LMT. We compare this to a previously calculated bolometric-model mapping speed and find that our mapping speed is in good agreement when this is scaled by a previously reported empirical factor. Through this simulation we show that signal contamination due to sky fluctuations can be effectively removed through the use of principle component analysis. We also give an overvie

MUSCAT focal plane verification

The Mexico-UK Submillimetre Camera for Astronomy (MUSCAT) is the second-generation large-format continuum camera operating in the 1.1 mm band to be installed on the 50-m diameter Large Millimeter Telescope (LMT) in Mexico. The focal plane of the instrument is made up of 1458 horn coupled lumped-element kinetic inductance detectors (LEKID) divided equally into six channels deposited on three silicon wafers. Here we present the preliminary results of the complete characterisation in the laboratory of the MUSCAT focal plane. Through the instrument's readout system, we perform frequency sweeps of the array to identify the resonance frequencies, and continuous timestream acquisitions to measure and characterise the intrinsic noise and 1/f knee of the detectors. Subsequently, with a re-imaging lens and a blackbody point source, the beams of every detector are mapped, obtaining a mean FWHM size of ~3.27 mm, close to the expected 3.1 mm. Then, by varying the intensity of a beam filling blackbody source, we measure the responsivity and noise power spectral density (PSD) for each detector under an optical load of 300 K, obtaining the noise equivalent power (NEP), with which we verify that the majority of the detectors are photon noise limited. Finally, using a Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS), we measure the spectral response of the instrument, which indicate a bandwidth of 1.0-1.2 mm centred on 1.1 mm, as expected