Aerodynamic shape optimization of a 3D wing via volumetric B-Splines

This paper shows a gradient-based aerodynamic shape optimization of a threedimensional wing using volumetric B-Splines. The wing is enclosed in a volumetric parallelepiped, commonly referred as control box, which can be seen as a rubber box that deforms the enclosed space. The deformation of the wing is provided by the manipulation of the control points, where the gradients are calculated using the continuous adjoint solution. This technique can be applied to arbitrary three dimensional complex designs and provides some advantages over other traditional geometry parameterization methods, such as deformation locality and the ability to handle some geometric constraints

Design and Evaluation of a Collaborative Educational Game: BECO Games

This paper describes the design and validation of a game based on a platform for easy deployment of collaborative educational games, named BECO Games platform. As an example of its potential, a learning experience for an Economics subject was created through a collaborative game to understand the concept of common goods. The effectiveness of the game was tested by comparing the performance of Bachelor students who used the platform and those who did not (137 students vs. 92 students). In addition, it was controlled that in previous years when students played the game through forums and an Excel sheet, these differences did not exist. Results indicate that the performance differences between students who participated in the online game and those who did not were greater than in previous years. In addition, a satisfaction survey was delivered to the students to understand their impressions better. This survey assessed student opinion about the platform, about the educational experience, and about their behavior during the game

Leptin concentration and risk of impaired physical function in older adults: the Seniors-ENRICA cohort

This is a pre-copyedited, author-produced PDF of an article accepted for publication in Age and Ageing following peer review. The version of record Alberto Lana, Ellen Struijk, Pilar Guallar-Castillón, Jose María Martín-Moreno, Fernando Rodríguez Artalejo, Esther Lopez-Garcia; Leptin concentration and risk of impaired physical function in older adults: the Seniors-ENRICA cohort. Age Ageing 45.6 (2016): 819-826 is available online at: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.1093/ageing/afw142Leptin resistance, which may develop during the aging process, stimulates the production of proinflammatory cytokines and insulin resistance that could impair the muscle function. However, the role of leptin on physical functioning among older adults has not yet been elucidated. Objective: To examine the association between serum leptin levels and physical function impairment in older adults. Design and setting: Prospective study of 1,556 individuals aged ≥60 years from the Seniors-ENRICA cohort, who were free of physical function limitation at baseline. Main outcome measure: Serum leptin was measured in 2008-2010, and incident functional limitation was assessed through 2012. Self-reported limitations in agility and mobility were assessed with the Rosow and Breslau scale, limitation in the lower extremity function was measured with the Short Physical Performance Battery, and impairment in the overall physical performance with the physical component summary of the SF-12. Results: After adjustment for potential confounders, and compared to individuals in the lowest quartile of leptin concentration, those in the highest quartile showed increased risk of impaired physical function; the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) and p-trend was: 1.95 (1.11-3.43), p=0.006 for self-reported impaired mobility; 1.76 (1.08-2.87), p=0.02 for self-reported impaired agility; 1.48 (1.02-2.15), p=0.04 for limitation in the lower extremity function; and 1.97 (1.20-3.22), p=0.01 for decreased overall physical performance. These associations were only modestly explained by C-reactive protein and insulin resistance. Moreover, the associations held across groups with varying health status and were independent of estimated total body fat. Conclusions: Higher leptin concentration was associated with increased risk of impaired physical function. Preserving metabolic function during the old age could help delaying physical function declineThis work was supported by FIS grants 12/1166 and 13/0288 (Instituto de Salud Carlos III, State Secretary of R+D+I, and FEDER/FSE), the CIBERESP, the FRAILOMIC Initiative (FP7-HEALTH-2012-Proposal no. 305483-2) and the ATHLOS project (EU H2020- Project ID: 635316

Cbfa-1 mediates nitric oxide regulation of MMP-13 in osteoblasts.

During bone development, osteoblast differentiation requires remodeling of the extracellular matrix. Although underlying mechanisms have not been elucidated, evidence points to the participation of the nitric oxide (NO) and cyclic guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cGMP) system. Here, we detected increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-13 mRNA, protein and activity, as well as increased inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and NO production during the differentiation of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. Transcriptional activity of the MMP-13 promoter was augmented by NO, 8-bromo-cGMP (8-Br-cGMP), and by a dominant-positive form of protein kinase G (PKG1-alpha). The stimulatory effect on the MMP-13 promoter was partially inhibited by mutation of the osteoblast-specific element 2 (OSE-2) binding site. Core binding factor-1 (Cbfa-1) expression peaked at 7 days of differentiation, and was phosphorylated by PKG in vitro. Cbfa-1 was localized to cell nuclei, and its translocation was inhibited by the iNOS inhibitor 1400W. Immunohistological examination revealed that MMP-13 and Cbfa-1 expression levels are both reduced in 17-day-old embryos of iNOS-deficient mice. Silencing of Cbfa-1 mRNA blocked MMP-13 expression without interfering with endogenous NO production, confirming its role in NO-induced MMP-13 expression by MC3T3-E1 cells. The results described here suggest a mechanism by which NO regulates osteogenesis.S

Triple therapy for COPD: A crude analysis from a systematic review of the evidence

We systematically reviewed the current knowledge on fixed-dose triple therapies for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with a specific focus on its efficacy versus single bronchodilation, double fixed dose combinations, and open triple therapies. Articles were retrieved from PubMed, Embase, and Scopus up to 3 August 2018. We selected articles with randomized controlled or crossover design conducted in patients with COPD and published as fulllength articles or scientific letters, evaluating triple therapy combinations in a single or different inhaler, and with efficacy data versus monocomponents, double combinations, or open triple therapies. Our systematic search reported 108 articles, of which 24 trials were finally selected for the analysis. A total of 7 studies with fixed dose triple therapy combinations, and 17 studies with open triple therapies combinations. Triple therapy showed improvements in lung function [trough forced expiratory volume (FEV1) ranging from not significant (NS) to 147 ml], health status using the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire [(SGRQ) from NS to 8.8 points], and exacerbations [risk ratio (RR) from NS to 0.59 for all exacerbations] versus single or double therapies with a variability in the response, depending the specific combination, and the comparison group. The proportion of adverse effects was similar between study groups, the exception being the increase in pneumonia for some inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) containing grou

Hacia un diseño eficiente y cooperativo del TFG como puente a la empleabilidad y el emprendimiento

Este proyecto surge como consecuencia de alguna de las propuestas de mejora del proyecto de innovación realizado en el curso 2016-17 titulado “El Trabajo de Fin de Grado (TFG) como instrumento de evaluación final de competencias de la titulación y predictor de la empleabilidad y el emprendimiento: propuesta de mejora de su calidad y criterios de evaluación”. A partir de los resultados obtenidos en dicho proyecto, tras un minucioso trabajo con profesores tutores de TFG, de la UCM y de otras universidades, se plantea la puesta en marcha de unos grupos piloto que actúen especialmente en aquellos aspectos que han emergido, de los cuestionarios, entrevistas y grupos focales realizados, como más necesitados de mejora. Con el diseño innovador propuesto se pretende incidir en la mejora de la gestión del tiempo empleado por estudiantes y tutores en la realización del TFG, basado en la planificación y el trabajo colaborativo de profesores y en el aprendizaje, también colaborativo, de los estudiantes, para un mayor acercamiento de los TFGs al mundo laboral de los futuros egresados. Se aborda una organización docente del TFG que tienda a reducir el tiempo dedicado por el profesor a la tarea de tutela (y en consecuencia, el gasto que ello supone), incrementando la calidad del trabajo. Sin olvidar otros elementos que definen un trabajo de calidad, se toma como principal referencia la empleabilidad. Se trata de un modelo docente que pretende incorporar las ventajas que supone la adopción del trabajo colaborativo, tanto de estudiantes como de profesores, y la incorporación de actividades que fomenten el emprendimiento como vía para la incorporación del egresado de la Facultad al mercado de trabajo. Se pone así énfasis en la eficiencia y en la funcionalidad, de modo que, sin menoscabo de la eficacia y logro de objetivos inherentes a la realización de un trabajo fin de Grado de calidad, se racionalicen los recursos disponibles y se consiga, a través del TFG, una mayor presencia de los estudiantes en el mercado laboral

Femtosecond double-pulse laser ablation and deposition of Co-doped ZnS thin films

Nanostructured thin films of Co-doped zinc sulfide were synthesized through femtosecond pulsed laser deposition. The scheme involved ablation of physically mixed Co and ZnS with pairs of ultrashort pulses separated in time in the 0-300 ps range. In situ monitorization of the deposition process was carried out through a simultaneous reflectivity measurement. The crystallinity of generated nanoparticles and the inclusion of Co in the ZnS lattice is demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (TEM-EDX) characterization. Surface morphology, Raman response, and photoluminescence of the films have also been assessed. The role of interpulse temporal separation is most visible in the thickness of the films obtained at the same total fluence, with much thicker films deposited with short delays than with individual uncoupled pulses. The proportion of Co in the synthesized doped ZnS nanoparticles is found to be substantially lower than the original proportion, and practically independent on interpulse delay

Nutrición en Salud Pública

La salud pública es uno de los esfuerzos colectivos organizados de la sociedad para prevenir la muerte prematura, la enfermedad, las lesiones y la discapacidad, y para promover la salud de las poblaciones. La Nutrición es la ciencia que estudia el conjunto de procesos por los cuales un organismo utiliza la energía de los alimentos para mantenerse y crecer; o, expresado de forma más operativa, la ciencia que estudia los alimentos, nutrientes y otras sustancias relacionadas, su interacción y balance en relación con la salud y la enfermedad y los procesos por los cuales el organismo ingiere, digiere, absorbe, transporta, utiliza y extrae las sustancias alimenticias. A partir de estas definiciones, podemos conceptualizar la nutrición en salud pública o la salud pública nutricional (public health nutrition) como la ciencia que estudia la relación entre dieta y salud a nivel poblacional y el desarrollo de intervenciones nutricionales a nivel comunitario con el objeto de mejorar el estado de salud de las poblaciones

Effectiveness of a cognitive behavioral intervention in patients with medically unexplained symptoms: cluster randomized trial

BACKGROUND: Medically unexplained symptoms are an important mental health problem in primary care and generate a high cost in health services.Cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic therapy have proven effective in these patients. However, there are few studies on the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions by primary health care. The project aims to determine whether a cognitive-behavioral group intervention in patients with medically unexplained symptoms, is more effective than routine clinical practice to improve the quality of life measured by the SF-12 questionary at 12 month. METHODS/DESIGN: This study involves a community based cluster randomized trial in primary healthcare centres in Madrid (Spain). The number of patients required is 242 (121 in each arm), all between 18 and 65 of age with medically unexplained symptoms that had seeked medical attention in primary care at least 10 times during the previous year. The main outcome variable is the quality of life measured by the SF-12 questionnaire on Mental Healthcare. Secondary outcome variables include number of consultations, number of drug (prescriptions) and number of days of sick leave together with other prognosis and descriptive variables. Main effectiveness will be analyzed by comparing the percentage of patients that improve at least 4 points on the SF-12 questionnaire between intervention and control groups at 12 months. All statistical tests will be performed with intention to treat. Logistic regression with random effects will be used to adjust for prognostic factors. Confounding factors or factors that might alter the effect recorded will be taken into account in this analysis. DISCUSSION: This study aims to provide more insight to address medically unexplained symptoms, highly prevalent in primary care, from a quantitative methodology. It involves intervention group conducted by previously trained nursing staff to diminish the progression to the chronicity of the symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce frequency of medical consultations. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01484223 [http://ClinicalTrials.gov].S

Predictors of Loss of Functional Independence in Parkinson’s Disease: Results from the COPPADIS Cohort at 2-Year Follow-Up and Comparison with a Control Group

COPPADIS Study Group.[Background and objective] The aim of this study was to compare the progression of independence in activities of daily living (ADL) in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients versus a control group, as well as to identify predictors of disability progression and functional dependency (FD).[Patients and Methods] PD patients and control subjects, who were recruited from 35 centers of Spain from the COPPADIS cohort between January 2016 and November 2017 (V0), were included. Patients and subjects were then evaluated again at the 2-year follow-up (V2). Disability was assessed with the Schwab & England Activities of Daily Living Scale (S&E-ADLS) at V0 and V2. FD was defined as an S&E-ADLS score less than 80%.[Results] In the PD group, a significant decrease in the S&E-ADLS score from V0 to V2 (N = 507; from 88.58 ± 10.19 to 84.26 ± 13.38; p < 0.0001; Cohen’s effect size = −0.519) was observed but not in controls (N = 124; from 98.87 ± 6.52 to 99.52 ± 2.15; p = 0.238). When only patients considered functional independent at baseline were included, 55 out of 463 (11.9%) converted to functional dependent at V2. To be a female (OR = 2.908; p = 0.009), have longer disease duration (OR = 1.152; p = 0.002), have a non-tremoric motor phenotype at baseline (OR = 3.574; p = 0.004), have a higher score at baseline in FOGQ (OR = 1.244; p < 0.0001) and BDI-II (OR = 1.080; p = 0.008), have a lower score at baseline in PD-CRS (OR = 0.963; p = 0.008), and have a greater increase in the score from V0 to V2 in UPDRS-IV (OR = 1.168; p = 0.0.29), FOGQ (OR = 1.348; p < 0.0001) and VAFS-Mental (OR = 1.177; p = 0.013) (adjusted R-squared 0.52; Hosmer and Lemeshow test = 0.94) were all found to be independent predictors of FD at V2.[Conclusions] In conclusion, autonomy for ADL worsens in PD patients compared to controls. Cognitive impairment, gait problems, fatigue, depressive symptoms, more advanced disease, and a non-tremor phenotype are independent predictors of FD in the short-term.Fundación Curemos el Parkinson (www.curemoselparkinson.org).Peer reviewe