Assessing hydromorphological and floristic patterns along a regulated Mediterranean river : The Serpis River (Spain)

In the European context, several methodologies have been developed to assess the ecological status and, specifically, the hydromorphological status of running surface waters. Although these methodologies have been widely used, few studies have focused on hydrologically altered water bodies and the factors that may determine their status. In this study, the Serpis River was divided into 16 segments from the Beniarr'es dam (40 km from the river mouth) to the sea, all of which are affected by flow regulation, but with different severity. In each segment, an inventory of the flora was conducted, and hydromorphological indices (QBR, Riparian Habitat Quality Index; and IHF, River Habitat Index) were applied. The objectives of the study were (A) to identify relationships between floristic composition and QBR components and (B) between instream habitat characteristics and IHF components as well as (C) to determine the main factors controlling the floristic composition and riparian habitat quality (QBR) and the factors controlling instream habitat characteristics and heterogeneity (IHF). A cluster analysis allowed grouping sites according to their floristic composition and instream habitat characteristics, and non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) was used to ordinate the sites, obtaining the biotic and instream habitat characteristics, as well as the QBR and IHF subindices, which better explained the spatial patterns. Finally, a canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) with predictor variables (geographical, hydrological, geomorphological and human pressures) indicated the main factors controlling the spatial patterns of the floristic composition, instreamhabitat characteristics, riparian habitat quality and instream habitat heterogeneity. A gradient of riparian and instream habitat quality was identified. Our results suggest that physical constraints (presence of a gorge) have protected sites from severe human impacts, resulting in good ecological quality, despite hydrological alteration. This area, where there is geomorphological control, could be potentially reclassified into a different ecotype because regular monitoring could be using incorrect references for index scores, and naturally high scores could be confused with recovery from hydrological alteration or other pressures. The sites with the worst quality were near the river mouth and were characterised by an artificial and highly variable flow regime (related to large autumnal floods and frequent human-induced periods of zero flow). This artificial flow variability as well as the presence of lateral structures in the river channel and geomorphological characteristics were identified as the main factors driving the hydromorphological and floristic pattern in this regulated river.Diversas metodologías han sido desarrolladas en el contexto europeo para evaluar el estado ecológico, y específicamente el estado hidromorfológico de las aguas superficiales. Aunque éstas han sido ampliamente utilizadas, pocos estudios se han centrado en masas de agua hidrológicamente alteradas y en los factores que condicionan su estado. En este estudio, el río Serpis fue dividido en 16 segmentos desde la presa de Beniarrés (a 40 km de la desembocadura) hasta el mar, todos ellos afectados por la regulación de caudales con distinta severidad. En cada segmento se realizó un inventario florístico y se aplicaron índices hidromorfológicos (QBR, Calidad del Bosque de Ribera, e IHF, Índice de Hábitat Fluvial). Los objetivos del estudio fueron (A) identificar relaciones entre la composición florística y los componentes del QBR, (B) entre las caracteríısticas del hábitat fluvial y los componentes del IHF, (C) determinar los principales factores que controlan la composición florística y la calidad del hábitat ripario (QBR), y las características del hábitat fluvial y su heterogeneidad (IHF). Un cluster permitió agrupar los puntos de muestreo según su composición florística y las características del hábitat fluvial, y un escalado multidimensional no-métrico (NMDS) fue usado para ordenar los puntos, obteniendo las variables bióticas y características del hábitat y los subindices del QBR e IHF, respectivamente, que explicaban mejor los patrones espaciales. Finalmente, un análisis de correspondencias canónicas (CCA) con variables predictoras (geográficas, hidrológicas, geomorfológicas y presiones humanas) indicó los principales factores que controlan los patrones espaciales de la composición florística, las características del hábitat fluvial, la calidad del hábitat ripario y la heterogeneidad del hábitat fluvial. Se identificó un gradiente de calidad del hábitat ripario y fluvial. Los resultados sugieren que las limitaciones físicas (presencia de un cañón) han protegido a los tramos de impactos humanos severos, resultando en una buena calidad ecológica a pesar de la alteración hidrológica. Esta zona podría potencialmente ser reclasificada en un ecotipo diferente, ya que un monitoreo regular podría estar usando referencias incorrectas para los índices y sus altas puntuaciones naturales se podrían estar confundiendo con una recuperación de la alteración hidrológica o de otras presiones. Los puntos de muestreo con peor calidad estuvieron cerca de la desembocadura y tuvieron un régimen de caudales alterado y muy variable. Esta variabilidad artificial del caudal, junto con la presencia de estructuras laterales en el cauce y las características geomorfológicas fueron identificadas como los principales factores determinantes del patrón hidromorfológico y florístico en este río regulado

Fat-free/lean body mass in children with insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Lean / Fat Free Body Mass (LBM) is metabolically involved in active processes such as resting energy expenditure, glucose uptake, and myokine secretion. Nonetheless, its association with insulin sensitivity / resistance / glucose tolerance and metabolic syndrome remains unclear in childhood. Methods: The current investigation aimed to examine the differences in fat-free mass /lean body mass according to the presence of insulin sensitivity/insulin resistance/glucose tolerance/metabolic syndrome in children. A systematic search was carried out in Medline/PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and SciELO, covering the period from each database''s respective start to 21 June 2021. Two researchers evaluated 7111 studies according to the inclusion criteria: original human studies, written in English or Spanish, evaluating fat-free mass/lean body mass in children and adolescents including both with and without insulin sensitivity/insulin resistance /glucose tolerance and metabolic syndrome and reported the differences between them in terms of fat free mass/lean body mass. The results of the studies were combined with insulin sensitivity, insulin, resistance, glucose tolerance and metabolic syndrome. The standardized mean difference (SMD) in each study was calculated and combined using the random-effects model. Heterogeneity between studies was tested using the index of heterogeneity (I-2), leave-one-out sensitivity analyses were performed, and publication bias was assessed using the Egger and Begg tests. Results: Finally, 15 studies which compared groups defined according to different glucose homeostasis criteria or metabolic syndrome out of 103 eligible studies were included in this systematic review and 12 studies in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis showed lower fat-free mass/lean body mass percentage in participants with insulin resistance/glucose tolerance/metabolic syndrome (SMD -0.47; 95% CI, - 0.62 to - 0.32) while in mass units (kg), higher values were found in the same group (SMD, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.43 to 1.60). Conclusions: Our results identified lower values of fat-free mass/lean body mass (%) in children and adolescents with insulin resistance/glucose tolerance/metabolic syndrome and higher values of fat-free mass/lean body mass when these are expressed in kg. The evidence of the impact of lean mass on children''s glucose homeostasis or metabolic syndrome is limited, so future studies research should focus on explaining the effect of fat-free mass/lean body mass on different metabolic outcomes. Moreover, it may be interesting to evaluate the quality (muscle density) or functional (muscle strength) outcomes in addition to both absolute (kg) and relative (%) values in future studies

Identification of novel candidate target genes in amplicons of Glioblastoma multiforme tumors detected by expression and CGH microarray profiling

BACKGROUND: Conventional cytogenetic and comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) studies in brain malignancies have shown that glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is characterized by complex structural and numerical alterations. However, the limited resolution of these techniques has precluded the precise identification of detailed specific gene copy number alterations. RESULTS: We performed a genome-wide survey of gene copy number changes in 20 primary GBMs by CGH on cDNA microarrays. A novel amplicon at 4p15, and previously uncharacterized amplicons at 13q32-34 and 1q32 were detected and are analyzed here. These amplicons contained amplified genes not previously reported. Other amplified regions containg well-known oncogenes in GBMs were also detected at 7p12 (EGFR), 7q21 (CDK6), 4q12 (PDGFRA), and 12q13-15 (MDM2 and CDK4). In order to identify the putative target genes of the amplifications, and to determine the changes in gene expression levels associated with copy number change events, we carried out parallel gene expression profiling analyses using the same cDNA microarrays. We detected overexpression of the novel amplified genes SLA/LP and STIM2 (4p15), and TNFSF13B and COL4A2 (13q32-34). Some of the candidate target genes of amplification (EGFR, CDK6, MDM2, CDK4, and TNFSF13B) were tested in an independent set of 111 primary GBMs by using FISH and immunohistological assays. The novel candidate 13q-amplification target TNFSF13B was amplified in 8% of the tumors, and showed protein expression in 20% of the GBMs. CONCLUSION: This high-resolution analysis allowed us to propose novel candidate target genes such as STIM2 at 4p15, and TNFSF13B or COL4A2 at 13q32-34 that could potentially contribute to the pathogenesis of these tumors and which would require futher investigations. We showed that overexpression of the amplified genes could be attributable to gene dosage and speculate that deregulation of those genes could be important in the development and progression of GBM. Our findings highlight the important influence in GBM of signaling pathways such as the PI3K/AKT, consistent with the invasive features of this tumor

Reflexiones en torno a la evaluación de las actividades del proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje

La evaluación es un proceso sistemático, continuo e integral destinado a determinar hasta qué punto han sido alcanzados los objetivos educativos. En ella se aúnan dos actividades fundamentales: medir y emitir juicios de valor a partir, de los datos. Sin embargo, a pesar de la claridad de estos conceptos la forma de evaluar a los alumnos todavía sigue plagada de importantes contradicciones entre los profesores, lo que manifiesta unas conductas didácticas alejadas de lo que debiera ser una pedagogía basada en la evidencia. El objetivo de este proyecto es evidenciar las citadas discrepancias, entre los agentes del proceso de enseñanza aprendizaje (alumnos y profesores), a la hora de elaborar, realizar y calificar las pruebas de evaluación (“exámenes”) de los alumnos de varias disciplinas relacionadas con la Biomedicina. La metodología empleada ha consistido en aplicar a los estudiantes un sencillo cuestionario con preguntas de elección múltiple. A partir de los resultados, se pretende reflexionar sobre conjunto de criterios sólidos que permitan realizar las evaluaciones de los alumnos con mayor validez, fiabilidad, objetividad y pertinencia, como recomienda la OMS en su Guía Pedagógica para el Personal de Salud

Plan de mejoramiento de clima organizacional en la IPS Fundación Nacer para Vivir

pag 14, pag 31Se analizó el ambiente de la organización de la IPS FUNDACION NACER PARA VIVIR, a través de un instrumento de medición (encuesta estructurada) el cual se aplicó a los empleados del área administrativa y asistencial como lo son la correlación social, políticas y administrativas, ejecución de tareas, escenarios de trabajo, ayudas laborales, Progreso y mejora personal, de estas que se realiza un análisis descriptivo, En ciertos aspectos se visualizan áreas de tensión esto hace que los empleados no den el máximo de capacidad en busca del mejor desempeño; La IPS FUNDACION NACER PARA VIVIR reconoce la importancia del recurso humano por lo que hay participación activa en la elaboración de estrategias y cumplimiento de objetivos. Por medio de la evaluación de estas variables se formulan acciones de mejora en la que la principal es que se implemente y ejecute por parte de la alta dirección de la IPS FUNDACION NACER PARA VIVIR Solución con un cartera de alicientes, actividades de capacitación y planificación de agendas para la integración grupal, que se enmarquen dentro del estilo de dirección adoptado por la empresa, así como que dentro del plan de acción corporativo se constituyan estrategias para mejorar el ambiente de la organización de la IPS FUNDACION NACER PARA VIVIR. Se estudia revisión teórica de los inicios de clima organizacional, creando y desarrollando un plan de acción para fortalecer el ambiente laboral de la IPS FUNDACION NACER PARA VIVIR y desarrollar comportamientos saludables que estimule un buen ambiente laboral para todas las áreasThe organizational climate of the IPS FUNDACION NACER PARA VIVIR was analyzed, through a measurement instrument (structured survey) which was applied to officials of the administrative and healthcare area such as Social Relations, administrative policies, performance of tasks, Working conditions, Labor benefits, Personal development, of which a descriptive analysis is carried out. In certain aspects, areas of tension are visualized. This means that officials do not give the maximum capacity in search of the best performance; The IPS FUNDACION NACER PARA VIVIR recognizes the importance of human resources, so there is active participation in the development of strategies and achievement of objectives. Through the analysis of the variables, recommendations for improvement are formulated in which the main one is that it be implemented and executed by the senior management of the IPS FUNDACION NACER PARA VIVIR Solution with a portfolio of incentives, training programs and integration programs group, that are framed within the management style adopted by the company, as well as that within the institutional action plan strategies are established to improve the organizational climate of the IPS FUNDACION NACER PARA VIVIR. Theoretical review of the beginnings of the organizational climate is studied, creating and developing an action plan to strengthen the work environment of the IPS FUNDACION NACER PARA VIVIR and develop healthy behaviors that stimulate a good work environment for all area

A Resonant Ring Topology Approach to Power Line Communication Systems within Photovoltaic Plants

Within this study, single-cable propagation facilitated by PV strings’ wiring characteristics is considered for an adapted design of PLC electronics. We propose to close the communications signal path, resulting in a ring topology where a resonance condition could be implemented. A PLC topology using the resulting circular closed-loop path of a PV series string as its physical communication support is designed and leveraged for practical use. When the path length or the number of transceivers is changed, the resonance properties that come with the circular path as the physical support are affected but are shown to be preserved with the application of automatic adjustable tuning. This automatic tuning guarantees that the resonance improves propagation parameters and reverts the system to its optimal values at the chosen carrier frequency.This study was supported by the Universidad of Valladolid with the predoctoral contracts of 2020 cofunded by Santander Bank. This study was supported by the Universidad of Valladolid with ERASMUS+ KA-107. Partial funding for open access charge: Universidad de Málag

The tourism experience in the city of Valencia

[EN] The purpose of this project has been to provide Fundación Turismo Valencia with recommendation keys of tourist resources of the city of Valencia according the emotional profile of each tourist. The final aim is to meet the demand by an optimal fit between tourist needs and available resources in the tourist offer of the city. This objective has been achieved after analyzing the tourism demand in the city of Valencia by applying People Driven Innovation methodologies. Based on the study results, we have been able to identify four emotional profiles of tourists and the tourist resources that enhance their travel experience.[ES] La finalidad de este proyecto ha consistido en dotar a la Fundación Turismo Valencia de las claves de recomendación de recursos turísticos de la ciudad de Valencia en función del perfil emocional de cada turista. El objetivo final es satisfacer la demanda mediante una adecuación óptima entre las necesidades de los turistas y los recursos disponibles en la oferta turística de la ciudad. Este objetivo se ha conseguido mediante un análisis de la demanda turística en la ciudad de Valencia, aplicando metodologías de Innovación Orientada por las Personas. A partir de los resultados del estudio ha sido posible identificar cuatro perfiles emocionales de turistas y los recursos turísticos que mejoran su experiencia turística.Marzo Rosello, R.; Peris Perez, P.; Ferris Oñate, JM.; Sanchez Lacuesta, J.; Martínez Gómez, L.; Olaso Melis, J.; Garcés Pérez, L.... (2013). La experiencia turística en la ciudad de Valencia. Revista de biomecánica. 59:63-66. http://hdl.handle.net/10251/38677S63665

Implicaciones en los productos sanitarios de Clase I por el nuevo MDR (EU 2017/745)

[ES] El próximo 25 de mayo de 2021 finaliza el periodo de transición establecido para productos sanitarios de Clase I al nuevo marco regulatorio establecido por el Reglamento (UE) 2017/745 sobre producto sanitario, también conocido como MDR. A partir de esta fecha, todos los fabricantes y sus respectivos productos deberán estar adaptados al MDR para poder seguir comercializando dichos productos. En el presente artículo abordaremos los cambios principales introducidos por el nuevo marco regulatorio, facilitando las claves para una transición exitosa para los fabricantes de producto sanitario de Clase I.Primo Capella, V.; Mengual Ortola, R.; Martínez Gómez, L.; Peris Serra, JL.; Bermejo Bosch, I.; Garrido Jaen, JD.; Montero Vilela, J.... (2020). Implicaciones en los productos sanitarios de Clase I por el nuevo MDR (EU 2017/745). Revista de Biomecánica (Online). (67):47-51. http://hdl.handle.net/10251/165278S47516

Todo lo que siempre quiso saber sobre la evaluación, pero no se atrevió a preguntar: a propósito de una encuesta

La evaluación es un proceso sistemático, continuo e integral destinado a determinar hasta qué punto han sido alcanzados los objetivos educativos. En ella se aúnan dos actividades fundamentales: medir y emitir juicios de valor a partir, de los datos. Sin embargo, a pesar de la claridad de estos conceptos la forma de evaluar a los alumnos todavía sigue plagada de importantes contradicciones entre los profesores, lo que manifiesta unas conductas didácticas alejadas de lo que debiera ser una pedagogía basada en la evidencia. El objetivo de este trabajo es evidenciar las citadas discrepancias, entre los agentes del proceso de enseñanza aprendizaje (alumnos y profesores), a la hora de elaborar, realizar y calificar las pruebas de evaluación (“exámenes”) de los alumnos de varias disciplinas relacionadas con la Biomedicina. La metodología empleada ha consistido en aplicar a los estudiantes un sencillo cuestionario con preguntas de elección múltiple. A partir de los resultados, se pretende reflexionar sobre conjunto de criterios sólidos que permitan realizar las evaluaciones de los alumnos con mayor validez, fiabilidad, objetividad y pertinencia, como recomienda la OMS en su Guía Pedagógica para el Personal de Salud

Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity as a mediator between sedentary behavior and cardiometabolic risk in Spanish healthy adults: a mediation analysis

Background: Public health strategies for cardiovascular prevention highlight the importance of physical activity, but do not consider the additional potentially harmful effects of sedentary behavior. This study was conducted between 2010 and 2012 and analyzed between 2013 and 2014. The aim of the study was to analyze the relationship between sedentary behavior and cardiometabolic risk factors in the Spanish adult population and to examine whether this relationship is mediated by moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Methods: The cross-sectional study included 1122 healthy subjects belonging to the EVIDENT study. Sedentary behavior was objectively measured over 7 days using Actigraph accelerometers. We assessed waist circumference (WC), triglycerides-to-HDL-C ratio (TG/HDL-C), and mean arterial pressure (MAP), and undertook homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR). Linear regression models were fitted according to Baron and Kenny procedures for mediation analysis. Results: TG/HDL-C and HOMA-IR were significantly higher in adults who spent more minutes in sedentary activities after adjusting for potential covariates. However when MVPA was added to the ANCOVA models as covariate the effect of sedentary time on HOMA-IR disappeared. In addition, MVPA acted as a full mediator of the relationship between sedentary time and HOMA-IR. In contrast, subjects with lower levels of MVPA presented worse cardiometabolic profiles than those from higher MVPA categories, even after controlling for sedentary time and other potential confounders. Conclusions: These results suggest that both MVPA and sedentary time should be considered when developing cardiometabolic risk guidelines