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A new Maastrichtian hyposaurine dyrosaurid (Crocodylomorpha) from Namibe province, Angola
No full textDyrosauridae are one of the few clades of large marine vertebrates that survived the Cretaceous/Palaeogene (K–Pg) extinction event. The early diversification of this clade, dated to the Cretaceous, is still poorly understood. We describe a new specimen of Dyrosauridae from the Late Cretaceous of Bentiaba, Angola, represented by a posterior portion of the skull, a left ectopterygoid fragment, and a tooth. Comparative morphological analysis reveals a unique combination of characters distinguishing it from known dyrosaurid taxa but due to the fragmentary nature of the specimen and the absence of key diagnostic features, we assign it to Hyposaurinae indet.. Phylogenetic relationships were tested through maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference, using the SFBD model with time-binning criteria for the K–Pg boundary. Both of our phylogenetic analyses recover this new specimen as Hyposaurinae, which is consistent with our comparative study. Evolutionary rates accelerated during the latest stages of the Cretaceous, although the fossil bias prevents the ability to appreciate their impact on cladogenetic events. We estimated diversification, fossilization, and extinction rates, and we did not find evidence of radiation after the K–Pg in this clade. Biogeographically, this discovery supports hypotheses of longirostrine crocodyliform dispersal in Africa leading to hyposaurine diversification during the Maastrichtian
A bibliometric analysis of the social return on investment
No full textThis paper presents a thorough bibliometric analysis of the Social Return on Investment (SROI), an innovative method for measuring social impact. Using data from the Web of Science and the VOSviewer tool, we offer a comprehensive overview of the research evolution on SROI, analyzing it from citation, co-occurrence, and co-citation perspectives. The number of publications for the research topic has notably risen in recent years, and we delve into the evolution of research lines. The analyses disclose trends in SROI research, offering insights for researchers to comprehend the current state of the art of the field
Optimizing Perioperative Care in Esophageal Surgery: The EUropean PErioperative MEdical Networking (EUPEMEN) Collaborative for Esophagectomy
No full textBackground/Objectives: Despite advancements in surgery, esophagectomy remains one of the most challenging and complex gastrointestinal surgical procedures, burdened by significant perioperative morbidity and mortality rates, as well as high financial costs. Recognizing the need for standardized care provided by a multidisciplinary healthcare team, the EUropean PErioperative MEdical Networking (EUPEMEN) initiative developed a dedicated protocol for perioperative care of patients undergoing esophagectomy, aiming to enhance recovery, reduce morbidity, and homogenize care delivery across European healthcare systems. Methods: Developed through a multidisciplinary European collaboration of five partners, the protocol incorporates expert consensus and the latest scientific evidence. It addresses the entire perioperative pathway, from preoperative preparation to hospital discharge and postoperative recovery, emphasizing patient-centered care, risk mitigation, and early functional restoration. Results: The implementation of the EUPEMEN esophagectomy protocol is expected to improve patient outcomes through a day-by-day structured prehabilitation plan, meticulous intraoperative management, and proactive postoperative rehabilitation. The approach promotes reduced postoperative complications, earlier return to oral intake, and shorter hospital stays, while supporting multidisciplinary coordination. Conclusions: The EUPEMEN protocol for esophagectomy provides a comprehensive guideline framework for optimizing perioperative care in esophageal surgery. In addition, it serves as a practical guide for healthcare professionals committed to advancing surgical recovery and standardizing clinical practice across diverse care environments across Europe
Importin α3 Is Tolerant to Nuclear Localization Signal Chirality
No full textSeveral carrier proteins are involved in nuclear translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus in eukaryotic cells. We have previously demonstrated the binding of several intact folded and disordered proteins to the human isoform importin α3 (Impα3); furthermore, disordered peptides, corresponding to their nuclear localization signals (NLSs), also interact with Impα3. These proteins and their isolated NLSs also bind to the truncated importin species ∆Impα3, which does not contain the N-terminal disordered importin binding domain (IBB). In this work, we added a further ‘layer’ of conformational disorder to our studies, testing whether the isolated D-enantiomers of NLSs of selected proteins, either folded or unfolded, were capable of binding to both Impα3 and ∆Impα3. The D-enantiomers, like their L-form counterparts, were monomeric and disordered in isolation, as shown by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). We measured the ability of such D-enantiomeric NLSs to interact with both importin species by using fluorescence, biolayer interferometry (BLI), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and molecular simulations. In all cases, the binding affinities were within the same range as those measured for their L-isomer counterparts for either Impα3 or ∆Impα3, and the binding locations corresponded to the major NLS binding site of the protein. Thus, the stereoisomeric nature is not important in defining the binding of proteins to the main component of classical cellular translocation machinery, although the primary structure of the hot-spot site for NLS binding of importin is well defined
Enseñar Ciencias Sociales desde una perspectiva intercultural
No full textLa diversidad cultural ya está presente en las aulas de colegios e institutos de todo el mundo y los docentes de ciencias sociales tenemos que reaccionar. Es urgente integrar una perspectiva intercultural en nuestras clases que cuestione las narrativas hegemónicas, favorezca el reconocimiento del alumnado y contribuya a una educación inclusiva que forme sociedades más justas y democráticas
La configuración de las identidades a través del “no ser”: perspectivas feministas queer
No full textLas últimas décadas han estado marcadas por un cuestionamiento de la construcción social de las identidades. Los feminismos han sido espacios privilegiados para repensar el sexo, el género y la sexualidad. Esta Tesis Doctoral está situada dentro de este espacio de crítica de las categorías identitarias y de reflexión sobre la producción de subjetividades. El propósito de este trabajo es mostrar que elrechazo y la negación son imprescindibles en el proceso de desarrollo de quiene somos. El enfoque de la investigación está marcado por los feminismos queer y los transfeminismos, dos perspectivas feministas contemporáneas que nos permiten desafiar los marcos normativos en los que se sostienen el sexo, el género y la sexualidad. El análisis se inicia con debates actuales en el feminismo en torno al género. A continuación, nos centramos en los modos de vida al alcance de los distintos cuerpos, en particular reflexionamos sobre cómo los cuerpos no siempre aparecen en el imaginario social mediante una recepción positiva, sin embargo, aparecer en términos negativos no deja de ser una forma de alcanzar presencia social, lo que también produce posibilidades para repensar y cuestionar los modos de vida normativos. En la tercera parte de esta investigación profundizamos en la conexión entre el nombrar y el desarrollo de las categorías identitarias para argumentar cómo tener un término con el que nombrarnos no siempre implica ser reconocible y, del mismo modo, cómo no tener un nombre no tiene por qué implicar la falta de un espacio social que habitar. En esta investigación mostramos los modos y contextos en los que el rechazo y la negación tienen un impacto central en redirigir nuestra comprensión de nosotras mismas. La reflexión, desde una óptica feminista, ha interconectado los tres ámbitos presentados en el trabajo: las perspectivas queer y trans, los modos de vida y las acciones discursivas. El desarrollo ha evidenciado el lugar clave que tanto el rechazo como la negación ocupan en la producción contemporánea de subjetividades e identidades en el contexto Occidental.322<br /
La ilusión de infinito: el marco de la escritura en los diarios de Delfina y Julia Valentina Bunge, Teresa Wilms Montt e Idea Vilariño
No full textEl propósito principal de esta tesis doctoral es analizar el marco de la escritura, esto es, los principios y los finales, de los diarios de cuatro autoras hispanoamericanas: las argentinas Delfina y Julia Valentina Bunge, la chilena Teresa Wilms Montt y la uruguaya Idea Vilariño. Los cuatro diarios fueron escritos, a lo largo de diferentes lapsos, durante la primera mitad del siglo XX y en la juventud de las diaristas. En la primera parte, se presentan las características generales de los diarios que constituyen el objeto de estudio de esta tesis, así como el escenario, textual y contextual, en el que estos se inscriben: diario personal, literatura autobiográfica hispanoamericana y escritura femenina. En el caso de la primera variable se ha incidido en la noción de diario inédito y diario publicado, distinción relevante para el análisis que aquí se lleva a cabo. Respecto de las otras dos, se ha privilegiado la presentación de la escritura autobiográfica, en general y diarística, en particular la desarrollada en Hispanoamérica entre finales del siglo XIX y la primera mitad del XX. La segunda parte se abre con el estado de la cuestión sobre el diarismo femenino en los territorios nacionales a los que pertenecen las diaristas seleccionadas: Argentina, Chile y Uruguay, así como sobre la obra de estas. A continuación, se exponen las nociones teóricas que servirán para llevar a cabo el análisis efectivo de los inicios y los finales de los cuatro diarios. A partir de la distinción entre el diario y el libro, se indaga cómo se activan, en ambos márgenes textuales, los protocolos orientados a generar un horizonte de expectativas, al principio, y la proyección de sentido, al final.<br /
Analytical Modeling of an Ironless Axial Flux Machine for Sizing Purposes
No full textThis paper presents a novel analytical model of a double-stator single-rotor (DSSR) ironless axial flux machine (IAFM), with no iron either in the rotor or in the stator, that has cylindrical magnets in the rotor. The model is based on sizing equations that include the peak no-load flux density as a determining parameter, and then static simulations using the finite element method show that the 3D magnetic field created by cylindrical magnets can be generally fitted with an empirical function. The analytical model is validated throughout this work with finite element simulations and experiments over a prototype, showing a good agreement. It is stated that the integration of the magnetic field for different rotor positions, using the empirical approach presented here, gives accurate results regarding the back-electromotive force waveform and harmonics, with a reduced computation time and effort compared to the finite element method and avoiding complex formulations of previous analytical models. Moreover, this straightforward approach facilitates the design and comparison of IAFMs with other machine topologies, as sizing equations and magnetic circuits developed for conventional electrical machines are not valid for IAFMs, because, here, the magnetic field circulates entirely through air due to the absence of ferromagnetic materials. Furthermore, the scope of this paper is limited to a DSSR-IAFM, but the method can be directly applied to single-sided IAFMs and could be refined to deal with single-stator double-rotor IAFMs
Effect of Dietary Fiber Intake on Chronic Low-Grade Inflammation in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
No full textPrevious research suggests that dietary fiber (DF) intake may help reduce chronic low-grade inflammation (CLGI), a condition linked to the early development of cardiometabolic risk factors. Childhood and adolescence represent critical periods for preventing noncommunicable diseases, when adopting healthy eating habits, including adequate fiber consumption, could effectively control CLGI. However, the evidence on DF’s impact on CLGI in the pediatric population remains inconsistent and has not been comprehensively reviewed in a single article. Therefore, we aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effect of DF intake on CLGI in children and adolescents. A systematic search was performed in 4 databases up to January 2025. Two reviewers screened 2030 studies based on inclusion criteria: randomized controlled trials involving participants ≤18 y, interventions (Is) with any type of DF (supplementation, fiber-rich foods, or fiber intake advice) and reporting serum CLGI markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-6 and TNF-α, among others. Twenty-five randomized controlled trials were included in the systematic review, which showed that DF may have beneficial effects on CRP, IL-10, adiponectin, IL-1β, and IL-6 concentrations; though findings were inconsistent, with some studies reporting no significant changes. Meta-analysis was conducted for CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α. Meta-analysis for CRP concentrations included 10 studies and revealed a significant decrease following DF Is compared to controls (mean difference: –0.640; 95% CI: –1.075, –0.204). Meta-regression revealed that Is based on fiber supplementation resulted in significantly greater CRP reductions compared to those involving fiber-rich foods. Meta-analysis for IL-6 and TNF-α concentrations showed no significant effect after DF I. In conclusion, this review provides evidence that fiber Is may have a beneficial impact on certain markers of CLGI in children and adolescents, particularly by reducing serum CRP concentrations. However, the findings also reveal inconsistencies in the effects of fiber intake on other inflammatory markers
Rational design and modeling of auxetic fiber scaffolds for soft tissue engineering via melt electrowriting
No full textBackground: The development of regenerative biomaterial scaffolds with mechanical properties tailored to native soft tissues remains a challenge in tissue engineering. Mechanical metamaterials with auxetic architectures have taken enormous flight over the past years, as they offer improved control over mechanical function and performance through spatially defined material architecture. However, despite their potential, auxetic scaffold designs are often developed empirically, and the relationship between scaffold microarchitecture, mechanical function, and manufacturability remains poorly defined, limiting their applicability in tissue engineering. In this study, we present a computational framework for the rational design of auxetic fiber scaffolds manufactured using Melt Electro-writing (MEW) for soft tissue engineering. To address the challenge of tailoring scaffold mechanical properties to native tissue, we integrated finite element method (FEM) modeling with experimental validation to predict the mechanical behavior of the scaffolds.
Method: The micro-fibrous scaffolds with customizable auxetic re-entrant structures were designed using Python scripts for generating G-code used in fabrication and for model definition in FEM modeling, respectively. Four distinct auxetic structures – HCELL, SREG, SINV, and STRI – were selected for this study to cover the wide range of mechanical properties of soft tissue, and their geometry parameters were adjusted to reduce the pore size while considering printing resolution. FEM modeling was employed to predict the mechanical behavior of the scaffolds. To validate the predictions, the scaffolds were manufactured via MEW and characterized mechanically under biaxial tensile loading.
Results and conclusion: MEW manufacturing enabled the production of auxetic fiber scaffolds with sub-millimeter pore resolution, while rational design allowed to correct fabrication discrepancies and improve printed design fidelity. Experimental biaxial characterization of the scaffolds revealed design-dependent, biphasic, non-linear mechanical response, and the developed FEM model was capable of not only accurately simulating the observed mechanical response but also accounting for variations introduced by MEW during fabrication. Additionally, auxetic scaffolds supported fibroblast viability over 7 days, confirming biocompatibility as a first step toward soft tissue engineering. The good alignment between numerical predictions and experimental results highlights the value of FEM modeling as a powerful computational tool for guiding the design and optimization of auxetic scaffolds with tailored mechanical performance for specific soft tissue requirements. The presented methodology offers a significant advancement in the development of functional biomaterials for biomedical applications