Abstract Sexual satisfaction is expressed as an evaluation to gauge the level of enjoyment in one’s sexual life. Studies of the sexuality of the LGBTIQ population have been limited, as this group grapples with taboos, repression, and social stigma, which impact various aspects of their lives, including health and sexual satisfaction. This study investigates the unidimensional scale of sexual satisfaction in the LGBTIQ population in Ecuador, We analyze how this scale is affected when compared to different sociodemographic variables. We utilized a quantitative, descriptive, correlational, and prospective methodology, applying a questionnaire to 625 residents of Ecuador to gather sociodemographic data and the Sexual Satisfaction Index (SSI). The results on the unidimensional scale of sexual satisfaction are as follows: 33% of respondents report sexual satisfaction, while 60.5% experience sexual dissatisfaction, and 6.6% undergo a severe stress experience. There is less sexual dissatisfaction among individuals living in Quito, males, homosexuals, those with a higher level of education, and Afro-Americans, with a P value < 0,005 that is statistically significant. A negative value of sexual satisfaction is observed in the studied population, emphasizing the need for further investigation into the causes and factors influencing sexual dissatisfaction. This will help us understand their needs and provide support in a safe and respectful environment due to ongoing discrimination.

Resumen La satisfacción sexual se expresa como una evaluación, para manifestar el nivel de agrado a la vida sexual. Los estudios en la sexualidad de la población LGBTIQ han sido poco profundizados, grupos rodeados de tabúes, víctimas de una represión y condenas sociales; afectando las diferentes dimensiones de la salud, como la satisfacción sexual. Este trabajo investiga la escala unidimensional de la satisfacción sexual en la población LGBTIQ Ecuador. Se analiza cómo esta escala es afectada al correlacionarse con las diferentes variables sociodemográficas. Se utiliza una metodología cuantitativa, correlacional descriptiva y prospectiva. Se aplica: cuestionario a 625 personas residentes en Ecuador con recogida de datos sociodemográficos, Índice de Satisfacción Sexual (ISS). Los resultados de la escala unidimensional de satisfacción sexual muestran que el 33 % de la población tiene satisfacción sexual, el 60,5 % experimenta insatisfacción sexual y un 6,6 % reporta una experiencia severa de estrés en esta área. Se observa una menor insatisfacción sexual en los residentes de la ciudad de Quito, en hombres, en personas homosexuales, en aquellos con un nivel educativo más alto y en individuos afrodescendientes, con un valor de p < 0,005, lo que indica una significancia estadística. Estos resultados reflejan un nivel negativo de satisfacción sexual en la población estudiada. Por lo tanto, se hace necesario continuar investigando la satisfacción sexual para comprender las causas y los factores que inciden en la insatisfacción sexual. Es crucial visibilizar las necesidades y los apoyos que requiere esta comunidad en un entorno seguro y respetuoso, especialmente considerando los constantes actos de discriminación que enfrentan.

Resumen El fréjol es un cultivo importante debido a su alto valor nutritivo. En los últimos años la producción en Ecuador de este cultivo ha disminuido drásticamente debido entre otros factores a ineficientes procesos y falta de tecnificación en la producción. Entender cómo se generan y determinan los componentes del rendimiento del grano es primordial para diseñar estrategias que permitan aumentar el rendimiento del cultivo. En este estudio, se modificó la densidad de plantas con el objetivo de evaluar su impacto sobre el número de granos, peso de granos y rendimiento, bajo condiciones de campo en una región andina de Ecuador. Se realizaron dos experimentos sembrados en fechas distintas, donde se evaluaron densidades de plantas contrastantes 4 y 11 plantas m−2. El efecto de los tratamientos se estudió sobre la duración del periodo emergencia - antesis, el número de vainas llenas y vanas, el número de granos, el peso seco de 100 granos y el rendimiento de grano. Los resultados indican que la densidad de plantas tiene un efecto significativo (p<0,05) sobre el rendimiento, alcanzando un promedio de 257,15 g m−2 en alta densidad y 151,45 g m−2 en baja densidad. Los componentes principales del rendimiento mostraron una respuesta distinta a la modificación de la densidad de plantas; el número de granos presentó una fuerte variabilidad y fue positivamente asociado con el rendimiento final del grano (p<0,05), mientras que el peso del grano no fue afectado.

Abstract Common bean is an important crop due to its high nutritional value. However, its production in Ecuador has decreased due to biotic and abiotic factors. Understanding the mechanisms that determine the yield components of this crop is essential to establish strategies that allow increasing the yield. In this study, the plant density was modified to evaluate its impact on yield and its two main components, the grain number and grain weight under field conditions in an Andean region of Ecuador. Two experiments planted on different dates were performed, where two planting densities 4 and 11 plants m−2 were evaluated. The effect of the treatments was studied on the length of the period, from emergence to anthesis, the number of full and empty pods, grain number, 100 grain weight and grain yield. The results indicate that the plant density has a significant effect (p<0.05) on the yield, reaching an average of 257.15 g m−2 in high density, and 151.45 g m−2 in low density. The yield main components showed a different response to plant density modification; the grain number exhibited a strong variability and was positively associated with final grain yield (p<0.05) while the grain weight was not affected.

Abstract Cedrela odorata is a species of economic importance due to the quality of its wood and is currently planted through reforestation programs and commercial forestry plantations. Propagation in forest nurseries is carried out by seed that is harvested regardless of its physical quality and origin. The objective of the present research was to assess the physical quality and germination parameters of seeds from Cedrela odorata plus trees. Seeds were collected from 10 trees distributed within an altitudinal gradient of 10 to 700 m in the Soconusco region of the state of Chiapas, Mexico. 20 days after collection, the purity, 100-seed weight, moisture content, and viability of the seeds were determined, as were their germination capacity, average daily germination, peak value, and germination value. The seeds’ physical quality and viability differed (p≤0.0001) between trees. The average germination capacity of the seeds was 65.8 %. Viability, germination capacity, mean daily germination, peak value, and germination value were positively associated with the altitude; seeds from trees located at altitudes above 400 m recorded higher values. Seeds from higher trees differ in physical quality, viability, and germination parameters, a fact which establishes the importance of the altitudinal origin in seed collection.

Resumen Cedrela odorata es una especie de importancia económica por la calidad de su madera; en la actualidad se planta mediante programas de reforestación y plantaciones forestales comerciales. Su propagación en los viveros forestales se realiza por semilla que se recolecta sin considerar su calidad física y procedencia. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue evaluar la calidad física y parámetros germinativos de semillas de árboles superiores de C. odorata. Las semillas se recolectaron en 10 árboles superiores distribuidos en un gradiente altitudinal de 10 a 700 m en la región Soconusco, Chiapas, México. Después de 20 días de la recolecta se determinó la pureza, peso de 100 semillas, contenido de humedad y viabilidad de semillas, así como la capacidad germinativa, germinación media diaria, valor pico y valor germinativo. La calidad física y la viabilidad fue diferente (p≤0.0001) entre los árboles. La capacidad germinativa promedio de las semillas fue de 65.8 %. La viabilidad, capacidad germinativa, germinación media diaria, valor pico y valor germinativo presentaron asociación positiva con la altitud; las semillas de los árboles ubicados en altitudes superiores a los 400 m presentaron mayores valores. Las semillas de los árboles superiores difieren en calidad física, viabilidad y parámetros germinativos, por lo que se establece la importancia del origen altitudinal en la recoleta de semillas.

Abstract NDVI elucidates the ecophysiological mechanisms faced by vegetation. With the flexibility and versatility of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), temporal, spatial and spectral resolutions have been useful in supporting decision-making. Here, we modeled diurnal change in the NDVI derived from UAV imagery for individual trees in a natural forest stand. Eight flights were conducted during daylight hours over one day to assess the dynamics of the NDVI of the genera Pinus, Juniperus, and Quercus. The results showed unstable NDVI values over time, with a parabolic quadratic trend in the model. The NDVI reached its maximum around 13:00 h and the values differed significantly according to genus: the highest value was found in Pinus with significant differences presented with Juniperus and Quercus, which showed similar values between them (p=0.533). As a validation strategy, we test the model generated using 124 trees independent of those that were sampled, which strengthened our results in terms of reliability. The similarities of statistical parameters confer a high variability of application of the results in models of simulation of similar forests ecosystems. We recommend to study more spectral indices of vegetation, including calibration of the sensor, particularly in longer-term seasonal studies. We conclude that the NDVI measured using UAV should consider image acquisition time to calibrate the records and thus improve the interpretation of results.

Resumen El NDVI dilucida los mecanismos ecofisiológicos a los que se enfrenta la vegetación. Gracias a la flexibilidad y versatilidad de los vehículos aéreos no tripulados (VANT), las resoluciones temporales, espaciales y espectrales han sido útiles para apoyar la toma de decisiones. En este trabajo se modelizó el cambio diurno en el NDVI derivado de imágenes de VANT para árboles individuales en un rodal forestal natural incoetáneo. Se realizaron ocho vuelos durante las horas diurnas a lo largo de un día para evaluar la dinámica del NDVI de los géneros Pinus, Juniperus y Quercus. Los resultados mostraron valores de NDVI inestables en el tiempo, con una tendencia cuadrática parabólica en el modelo. El NDVI alcanzó su máximo alrededor de las 13:00 h y los valores difirieron significativamente según el género: el valor más alto se encontró en Pinus con diferencias significativas presentadas con Juniperus y Quercus, que mostraron valores similares entre ellos (p=0.533). Como estrategia de validación, probamos el modelo generado utilizando 124 árboles independientes de los muestreados, lo que reforzó nuestros resultados en términos de confiabilidad. Las similitudes de los parámetros estadísticos confieren una alta variabilidad de aplicación de los resultados en modelos de simulación de ecosistemas forestales similares. Recomendamos estudiar más índices espectrales de vegetación, incluyendo la calibración del sensor, particularmente en estudios estacionales de más largo plazo. Concluimos que el NDVI medido mediante VANT debe considerar el tiempo de adquisición de la imagen para calibrar los registros y así mejorar la interpretación de los resultados.

RESUMEN Las herramientas interactivas, con frecuencia, se excluyen de las aulas, limitando al uso de metodologías de enseñanza tradicionales; sin embargo, su inclusión en la enseñanza de Química ofrece nuevos paradigmas que buscan lograr resultados eficaces en el aprendizaje. En este sentido, el presente estudio aplica la herramienta interactiva liveworksheet en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje de Química. Se asumió una metodología cuali-cuantitativa con diseño cuasiexperimental, se trabajó con una muestra censal de 146 participantes, 76 del grupo experimental y 70 del grupo control que cursaron tercero de bachillerato en la Unidad Educativa San Felipe Neri, durante el periodo académico 2021-2022, donde se aplicaron pre-pospruebas, y una encuesta de satisfacción. Los resultados del estadístico t-student evidenciaron cambios conceptuales y actitudinales al uso de liveworksheet, confirmando la mejora en el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje, y un mayor rendimiento académico al rechazar Ho por tener un p-valor < 0.05. En cuanto al conocimiento proporcionado, el 80.0 % lo califica como satisfactorio; así mismo, el 87.0 % señala las expectativas cumplidas como excepcionales, que fueron relevantes al mejorar significativamente el interés y motivación de los estudiantes por aprender. En consecuencia, se destaca que el uso de las herramientas interactivas influye en la enseñanza-aprendizaje de Química, con óptimos resultados.

ABSTRACT Interactive tools are often excluded from the classroom, limiting the use of traditional teaching methodologies; however, their inclusion in chemistry teaching offers new paradigms that seek to achieve effective learning results. In this sense, the present study applies the interactive tool "liveworksheet" in the teaching-learning process of chemistry. A qualitative-quantitative methodology with a quasi-experimental design was used, working with a census sample of 146 participants, 76 from the experimental group and 70 from the control group, who attended the third year of upper secondary at the San Felipe Neri Educational Unit, during the 2021-2022 academic period, where pre-tests and a satisfaction survey were applied. The results of the t-student statistic evidenced conceptual and attitudinal changes to the use of "liveworksheet," confirming the improvement in the teaching-learning process and higher academic performance by rejecting Ho for having a p-value < 0.05. Regarding the knowledge provided, 80.26% rate it as satisfactory, while 86.84% point out the expectations fulfilled as exceptional, which were relevant by significantly improving the students' interest and motivation to learn. Consequently, it is highlighted that using interactive tools influences the teaching-learning of Chemistry, with optimal results.

RESUMEN: La trampa académica es una acción que realizan las personas para lograr el éxito de maneras que no son correctas. A menudo se hacen trampas académicas, desde instituciones educativas básicas hasta universidades o estudiantes. Los educadores deben tener moral para reducir las acciones de Trampa Académica que muchas veces se presenta a nivel educativo. La propensión a la culpa y la vergüenza determina el comportamiento poco ético, como por ejemplo si se producirán trampas académicas. Este estudio tiene como objetivo determinar el efecto de la propensión a la culpa y la vergüenza sobre el fraude académico en estudiantes de programas de estudio de formación docente de primaria. El estudio actual evaluó la deshonestidad académica entre estudiantes universitarios en programas de formación docente de escuela primaria. Doscientos ocho participantes informaron sobre su comportamiento de trampa y completaron la Escala de propensión a la culpa y la vergüenza. Los resultados de la prueba de regresión para la influencia de la propensión a la culpa y la vergüenza en el fraude académico obtuvieron un valor de probabilidad de sig. (p) = 0,000 (p<0,05) por lo que se acepta la hipótesis: La propensión a la culpa y la vergüenza influyen significativamente en el fraude académico. El valor R cuadrado = 0, 075 significa que la trampa académica contribuye efectivamente en un 7,5 % a la culpa. Se debe considerar la importancia de la inculcación moral en los candidatos a estudiantes-maestros para prevenir comportamientos poco éticos.

ABSTRACT Academic cheating is an action individuals take to achieve success in ways that are not right. Academic cheating is often done, ranging from basic educational institutions to universities or students. Educators must have morals to reduce the actions of Academic Cheating that often occurs at the education level. Guilt and Shame Proneness determines unethical behavior, such as whether academic cheating will occur. This study aims to determine the effect of Guilt and Shame Proneness on Academic Cheating in students of primary school teacher education study programs. The current study assessed academic dishonesty among college students in primary school teacher education programs. Two hundred and eight participants self-reported cheating behavior and completed the Guilt and Shame Proneness Scale. The regression test results for the influence of Guilt and Shame Proneness on Academic Cheating obtained a probability value of sig. (p) = 0.000 (p<0.05) so that the hypothesis is accepted: Guilt and Shame Proneness significantly influence Academic Cheating. R-square value = 0, 075 means that Academic Cheating effectively contributes 7.5% to guilt. The importance of moral inculcation in student-teacher candidates must be considered to prevent unethical behavior

BACKGROUND: Predicting severe Crohn's disease (SCD) can assist in planning risk reduction therapy for SCD, thereby improving disease outcomes OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence and predictors of SCD in a sample of South African (SA) patients METHODS: This was a retrospective chart review of patients with Crohn's disease (CD) attending the gastroenterology unit at a tertiary hospital in Durban, SA. Demographic and clinical variables at diagnosis of CD were collected and analysed for statistical associations with SCD (defined as the presence of >1 of the following over the course of CD: complex perianal disease, colonic resection, >2 small-bowel resections, a single small-bowel resection >50cm, or construction of a definitive stoma). The prognostic utility of statistically significant variables was investigated by establishing their sensitivity, specificity and predictive values for SCD RESULTS: The study sample consisted of 93 patients. The rate of SCD was 64.5%, with 63.3% of patients developing SCD within 1 year of CD diagnosis. Ileocolonic location (p=0.046) and penetrating disease at initial diagnosis of CD (p=0.021) were statistically associated with SCD. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of ileocolonic location for SCD were 72.7%, 47.4%, 66.7% and 54.6%, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of penetrating disease for SCD were 85.7%, 41.7%, 30.0% and 91.0%, respectively CONCLUSION: Most patients with CD developed SCD within 1 year of their CD diagnosis. CD with a penetrating phenotype at diagnosis is a good predictor for the development of SCD and should be further investigate

RESUMEN Durante los últimos tiempos, el análisis de costos y la manera en que se relaciona con la rentabilidad ha ido cobrando mayor importancia, siendo un poco más delicada la problemática cuando se trata de empresas dentro del sector servicios. Para el presente estudio, se tuvo como objetivo determinar la relación entre la gestión estratégica de costos y la rentabilidad en empresas de transporte de carga por carretera ubicadas en el distrito de Ate (Lima - Perú) durante el 2022. El estudio se ciñó al enfoque cuantitativo, alcance correlacional y se utilizó el diseño no experimental transeccional correlacional-causal; los participantes fueron 40 responsables de este tipo de empresas (dos encargados por cada una de las 20 compañías consideradas), a los cuales se les aplicó un cuestionario de 23 ítems, y en cuya redacción se empleó la escala de Likert. Luego del procesamiento y análisis de la información, se evidenció la existencia de una asociación fuerte y significativa (p <0.05) entre las dos variables del estudio, debido a que se halló un coeficiente de correlación de Spearman de 0.843. En consecuencia, se afirma que la gestión estratégica de costos se relaciona directa, fuerte y significativamente con la rentabilidad en empresas de transporte de carga por carretera del distrito de Ate; eso permite aseverar que, a una mejor gestión estratégica de costos, mayor rentabilidad.

ABSTRACT In recent times, cost analysis and the way in which it relates to profitability has become more important, with the problem being a little more delicate when it comes to companies within the service sector. For the present study, the objective was to determine the relationship between strategic cost management and profitability in road freight transport companies located in the district of Ate (Lima - Peru) during 2022. The study adhered to the quantitative approach, correlational scope and used the non-experimental correlational-causal cross-sectional design; the participants were 40 managers of this type of companies (two managers for each of the 20 companies considered), to whom a questionnaire of 23 items was applied, and in whose writing the Likert scale was used. After processing and analyzing the information, the existence of a strong and significant association (p <0.05) between the two study variables was evidenced, due to the fact that a Spearman correlation coefficient of 0.843 was found. Consequently, it is stated that the strategic cost management is directly, strongly and significantly related to the profitability in road freight transport companies in the district of Ate; this allows us to assert that, with better strategic cost management, greater profitability.

Resumo Objectivos: Estudar o tipo de queda de cabelo mais frequente em diferentes faixas etárias e a deficiência prevalente de micronutrientes associada à queda de cabelo. Comparar a associação dos níveis séricos de ferritina, vitamina D e vitamina B12 com queda de cabelo entre casos e controles. Métodos: Este foi um estudo transversal que incluiu um total de 100 indivíduos com 50 casos de queda de cabelo e 50 controles pareados por idade e sexo. Os níveis séricos de vitamina D, vitamina B12 e ferritina foram medidos em todos os indivíduos. Resultados: A maioria dos sujeitos tinha entre 20 e 30 anos de idade. Houve predomínio do eflúvio telógeno seguido da alopecia androgenética masculina em todas as faixas etárias. As mulheres apresentaram níveis consideravelmente mais baixos de ferritina sérica em comparação aos homens entre os casos, com valor p de 0,0001. A vitamina D, a vitamina B12 e a ferritina sérica foram significativamente baixas entre os casos em comparação aos controles, com valores de p de 0,0001, 0,01 e 0,006, respectivamente. Conclusão: Este estudo sugere que baixos níveis séricos de vitamina B12 e ferritina sérica e particularmente vitamina D podem desempenhar um papel apreciável na perda de cabelo, especialmente no eflúvio telógeno entre as mulheres. A avaliação destes parâmetros poderia ajudar o médico a optar por uma modalidade terapêutica mais precisa, mas a identificação da etiologia exacta continua a ser uma preocupação primordial, uma vez que é multifactorial, o que abre o caminho para um tratamento adequado e eficaz.

Abstract Objectives: The objective of this study was to study the most frequent type of hair loss in different age groups, and the prevalent micronutrient deficiency linked to hair loss and to compare the association of serum ferritin, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 levels with hair loss among cases and controls. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study which included a total of 100 subjects with 50 hair loss cases and 50 age and sex-matched controls. Serum levels of vitamin D, vitamin B12, and ferritin were measured in all subjects. Results: Most of the subjects were between 20 and 30 years of age. There was a predominance of telogen effluvium followed by male androgenetic alopecia in all age groups. Females had considerably lower levels of serum ferritin compared to males among cases, with p-value of 0.0001. Vitamin D, vitamin B12, and serum ferritin were significantly low among cases compared to controls, with p-values of 0.0001, 0.01, and 0.006, respectively. Conclusion: This study suggests that low levels of serum vitamin B12 and serum ferritin and particularly vitamin D might play an appreciable role in hair loss especially telogen effluvium among females. Evaluation of these parameters could aid the clinician in opting for a more precise therapeutic modality, but identification of the exact etiology remains a primary concern as it is multifactorial, which paves path to appropriate and effective treatment.

Resumo Objetivos: Determinar a prevalência do quisto dentígero e sua caracterização numa população de pacientes com patologia óssea, assim como estudar a taxa de concordância entre os diagnósticos clínico e histológico dos casos analisados. Métodos: Foram consultados os registos dos pacientes que frequentaram as consultas de Cirurgia Oral e Patologia Oral de uma clínica universitária portuguesa entre 2000 e 2023. Foram selecionados os casos de patologia óssea com informação sobre sexo, idade e localização anatómica. Foi calculada a taxa de concordância entre o diagnóstico clínico e histológico, dividindo os casos em totalmente concordantes, parcialmente concordantes e discordantes. A análise estatística foi realizada com testes de qui-quadrado. Resultados: A prevalência do quisto dentígero na patologia óssea foi de 10,50%. Foi mais prevalente no sexo masculino (68%), sem significado estatístico. A idade média dos pacientes foi de 36,9 ± 13,5 anos. Cerca de metade dos casos (56%) estavam associados a dentes inclusos e os mais afetados foram os terceiros molares (33,33%). A maioria (57%) encontrava-se na mandíbula, sem significado estatístico, com maior prevalência no quarto quadrante (38,89%). De todos os casos analisados, 44,80% apresentaram os diagnósticos clínico e histológico concordantes, 17,65% estavam parcialmente concordantes e 37,55% tiveram diagnósticos discordantes. Conclusões: A prevalência do quisto dentígero foi de 10,50%, mais prevalente em pacientes do sexo masculino e maioritariamente localizado na mandíbula, com uma maior incidência entre os 19 e 50 anos de idade. A taxa de concordância entre diagnóstico clínico e histológico foi de 62,45%, um valor que pode e deve ser melhorado.

Abstract Objectives: To assess the prevalence and characterize the dentigerous cyst in a Portuguese population with bone pathology and to study the concordance rate between clinical and histological diagnoses of all cases. Methods: Clinical records of patients attending Oral Surgery and Oral Pathology consultations in a Portuguese university clinic between 2000 and 2023 were consulted. Bone pathology cases were selected along with information about sex, age, and anatomic location. The concordance rate between clinical and histological diagnoses was also calculated, dividing the cases into totally concordant, partially concordant, and discordant. Statistical analysis was conducted using chi-square tests. Results: The dentigerous cyst prevalence within bone pathology cases was 10.50%. It was more prevalent in males (68%), with no statistical significance (p>0.05). The average age of patients was 36.9 ± 13.5 years old. About half of the cases (56%) were associated with unerupted teeth, and third molars were the most affected teeth (33.33%). Most cases (57%) were in the mandible, with no statistical significance, more prevalent in the fourth quadrante (38.89%). The clinical diagnosis of 44.80% of the cases analyzed agreed with the histological diagnosis, 17.65% agreed partially, and 37.55% disagreed. Conclusions: The prevalence of dentigerous cysts in the referred population was 10.50%. They were more prevalent in males and mostly located in the mandible, with a higher incidence between 19 and 50 years of age. The concordance rate between clinical and histological diagnoses was 62.45%, a value that can and should be improved. (Rev Port Estomatol Med Dent

Abstract The objective was to evaluate the increasing use of garlic, sesame, and cinnamon oil in the production of CH4 in 60 d in vitro regrowth of Koronivia grass. The addition of 0, 2.5, 5.0, 5.0, 7.5, and 10 % garlic, cinnamon, or sesame oil was evaluated in an in vitro fermentation using a 60-d regrowth of Koronivia grass as substrate. The variables evaluated were cumulative CH4 production at 12, 24, 36, 36, 48, and 72 h; dry matter degradation (DMD), and CH4 production kinetics estimators (A= CH4 production potential, b= CH4 production rate constant, and k= lag time). The CH4 production and the DMD were analyzed with a completely randomized experimental design and orthogonal contrast. The estimators were subjected to a descriptive analysis. An increase of garlic oil and cinnamon linearly reduced CH4 production at 12, 24, 36, 48, and 72 h. The DMD decreased linearly with the use of any of the three oils (P<0.05). The highest value of A was obtained with 2.5 % garlic oil, and the highest value of k and b, with 10 % cinnamon oil. In conclusion, the use of garlic and cinnamon oils resulted in a linear decrease of Koronivia grass CH4 and Koronivia grass DMD under in vitro conditions.

Resumen El objetivo fue evaluar el uso creciente de aceite de ajo, ajonjolí y canela en la producción de CH4 in vitro de pasto llanero con 60 días de rebrote. Se evaluó la adición de 0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 y 10 % de aceite de ajo, canela o ajonjolí en una fermentación in vitro usando como sustrato pasto llanero con 60 días de rebrote. Las variables evaluadas fueron producción acumulada de CH4 a las 12, 24, 36, 48 y 72 h, degradación de materia seca (DMS) y los estimadores de cinética de producción de CH4 (A= potencial de producción de CH4, b= tasa constante de producción de CH4 y k= tiempo lag). La producción de CH4 y DMS se analizaron con un diseño experimental completamente al azar y contraste ortogonal. Los estimadores fueron un análisis descriptivo. El aumento de aceite de ajo y canela redujo linealmente la producción de CH4 a las 12, 24, 36, 48 y 72 h. La DMS disminuyó linealmente con cualquiera de los tres aceites (P<0.05). El mayor valor de A fue con 2.5 % de aceite de ajo, el mayor valor de k y b fue con 10 % de aceite de canela. En conclusión, el uso de aceites de ajo y canela mostraron una disminución lineal de la producción de CH4 y DMS de pasto llanero en condiciones in vitro.

BACKGROUND. Diagnosing meningitis in sick neonates is challenging because they are often unstable for lumbar puncture (LP). In this scenario, antibiotic selections are based on positive blood culture (BC), assuming concordance between blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cultures. The value of CSF cultures is diminished when LP is performed after initiating antibiotics. Therefore, CSF white cell count (CSF-WCC) and chemistry serve as proxies for diagnosing meningitis. OBJECTIVE. To assess concordance between blood and CSF cultures and identify differences in CSF-WCC and protein levels between positive and negative CSF cultures. METHODS. We enrolled neonates who had both CSF and BCs taken for sepsis workup. Comparisons between blood and CSF cultures were performed to assess concordance. CSF-WCC and protein level discrepancies were compared between positive and negative CSF cultures. RESULTS. Ultimately, 448 neonates over 12 months met the criteria. Among those with positive BC results, 16.7% had positive CSF cultures, whereas for those with culture-positive CSF, 59.2% had positive BC. The concordance of organisms was 82.8% among those with positive blood and CSF cultures. Among neonates with culture-positive CSF, 24.5% and 59.3% had abnormal CSF-WCC and protein levels, respectively. Neonates with a positive CSF culture, compared with a negative culture, had higher CSF-WCC (24.5% v. 10.4%; p<0.001) and protein levels (59.3% v. 37.5%; p<0.001). CONCLUSION. High proportion of neonates with positive CSF cultures had negative BCs. Therefore, meningitis cannot be excluded based on negative BC without LP, for normal CSF-WCC and protein levels without CSF culture results do not exclude meningitis.

Resumo Background: A disseção endoscópica da submucosa (DES) é uma técnica minimamente invasiva para resseção em bloco de tumores superficiais, independentemente do seu tamanho. No entanto, nas neoplasias superficiais gastrointestinais gigantes, o risco de cancro invasivo está aumentado e a DES é tipicamente desafiante. Apesar do incremento da literatura acerca de resseções gigantes, dados da sua eficácia e segurança são ainda escassos. Objetivo: Descrição de outcomes de DES de um centro português e comparação com estudos internacionais. Análise de eventuais fatores de risco influenciando os outcomes. Métodos: Revisão retrospetiva de um centro, usando a sua base de dados prospectivamente colhida, incluindo pacientes com resseções rectais por DES maiores que 10 cm, entre janeiro 2016 e dezembro 2021. Dados clínicos, endoscópicos e patológicos foram colhidos e analisados. A literatura foi revista através do PubMed, para comparação com resultados internacionais. A análise dos resultados e estatística foi realizada, utilizando o Microsoft Excel e SPSS, para a identificação de fatores de risco com impacto significativo nos outcomes. Resultados: O estudo incluiu um total de 15 resseções retais, com uma média de diâmetros de 140,9 mm (intervalo 105-270), correspondendo a lesões 125,9 mm (intervalo 87-238). A taxa de resseção em bloco foi de 100% (n = 15). Segundo os critérios da ESGE, o procedimento foi curativo em 53,3% (n = 8), não curativo com alto risco em 13,3% (n = 2) e com risco de recorrência local em 33,3% (n = 5). Eventos adversos ocorreram em 26,7% (n = 4): 1 microperfuração e 3 estenoses, a maioria geridas endoscopicamente. Os 5 casos não curativos com risco de recorrência local ficaram apenas sob vigilância. Nas ressecções não curativas de alto risco, um paciente foi submetido a cirurgia e outro a quimioradioterapia adjuvante. O follow-up (média de 16 meses) demonstrou uma taxa de recorrência de 0%. A análise estatística demonstrou o tamanho da ressecção ≥20 cm como fator de risco significativo para perfuração (p value 0.067); e envolvimento de ≥ 90% da circunferência do lúmen e tempo de procedimento ≥4h como fatores de risco significativos para estenose (p value 0.029 e 0.009, respetivamente). Conclusão: Apesar de desafiante, a DES para lesões gigantes parece eficaz e segura, com uma taxa de complicações importante, possíveis de tratamento endoscópico. A caracterização rigorosa destas lesões é crucial para predizer e evitar complicações ou a necessidade de escalada terapêutica.

Abstract Background: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a minimally invasive technique for en bloc resection of superficial neoplastic lesions, independent of their size. However, for giant gastrointestinal superficial neoplasia, the risk of invasive cancer is higher, and ESD is typically challenging. Despite the increasing literature on giant resections, data on their efficacy and safety are still lacking. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe ESD outcomes from a Portu-guese center, compare them with other international studies, and analyze the possible risk factors influencing outcomes. Methods: We conducted a retrospective single-center review using a prospectively collected database, including patients with rectal ESD resections larger than 10 cm, between January 2016 and December 2021. Clinical, procedural, and pathological data were collected and analyzed. Revision of the literature for comparison with international results was done through PubMed. Data were analyzed and statistical analysis performed, using Microsoft Excel and SPSS, to identify significant risk factors. Results: The study included 15 rectal resections, with a mean diameter of 140.9 mm (range 105-270), corresponding to lesions of 125.9 mm (87-238). The overall en bloc resection rate was 100% (n = 15). According to ESGE criteria, procedure was considered curative in 53.3% (n = 8), non-curative with high risk in 13.3% (n = 2), and local-risk recurrence in 33.3% (n = 5). Adverse events occurred in 26.7% (n = 4): 1 minor perforation and 3 stenosis, most endoscopically managed. For non-curative resections with local-risk recurrence, surveillance without adjuvant therapy was performed in all cases. For high-risk non-curative resections, surgery was performed in 1 patient and adjuvant chemoradiation therapy in another. Follow-up (mean 16 months) demonstrated a recurrence rate of 0%. Statistical analysis revealed resection size ≥20 cm as a risk factor for perforation (p value 0.067), and involvement of ≥90% of the circumference and procedural time ≥4 h as risk factors for stenosis (p value 0.029 and 0.009, respectively). Conclusions: Although challenging, ESD for giant lesions seems effective and safe, with a still relevant rate of complications, which were mostly endoscopically treated. Rigorous characterization of lesions is crucial to predict and avoid complications or the need for therapy escalation.

RESUMEN En Quevedo, Provincia de Los Ríos, se lleva a cabo una investigación para caracterizar la pasta de cacao de doce tratamientos de cacao Tipo Nacional. El objetivo es evaluar su idoneidad para la industria y preservar su identidad ligada al "sabor arriba". La evaluación química se realizó en los laboratorios de Bromatología de la UTEQ y Santa Catalina INIAP. Se utilizó un Diseño Experimental Completamente al Azar con doce tratamientos y cuatro repeticiones, totalizando 48 muestras. La prueba de Tukey (P ≤0.05) se empleó para identificar diferencias entre medias de tratamientos; no se hallaron diferencias estadísticas en temperatura, ni pH de la masa de cacao. Sin embargo, para la variable de grasa, se observaron diferencias estadísticas entre tratamientos. Los tratamientos CCN-51 (41.91) y EET-103 (39.13) presentaron mayores porcentajes de grasa, mientras que el T10 L46H75 (23.73) mostró el menor porcentaje. En relación con los polifenoles totales (mg/g), los tratamientos L40H49 (86.00), L15H31 (85.25) y L17H30 (81.42) registraron los valores más altos. En la variable teobromina/cafeína, el tratamiento L12H27 obtuvo el valor más bajo (3.49%), posiblemente debido a un alto contenido de cafeína y bajo contenido de proteína.

ABSTRACT An investigation was conducted in Quevedo, Los Ríos Province, to characterize the cocoa paste of twelve treatments of National Type cocoa. The objective was to assess its suitability for the industry and preserve its identity linked to the "sabor arriba" flavor. The chemical evaluation took place in the Bromatology laboratories of UTEQ and Santa Catalina INIAP. A Completely Randomized Experimental Design was used with twelve treatments and four replications, totaling 48 samples. The Tukey test (P≤0.05) was employed to identify differences in treatment means; no statistical differences were found in temperature or pH of the cocoa mass. However, for the fat content variable, statistical differences among treatments were observed. Treatments CCN-51 (41.91) and EET-103 (39.13) showed higher fat percentages, while T10 L46H75 (23.73) displayed the lowest percentage. Regarding total polyphenols (mg/g), treatments L40H49 (86.00), L15H31 (85.25), and L17H30 (81.42) recorded the highest values. In the theobromine/caffeine variable, treatment L12H27 obtained the lowest value (3.49%), possibly due to a high caffeine content and low protein content.

Abstract Ecological integrity (EI) is the property of an ecosystem to support and maintain a community of organisms whose composition, diversity, and functional organization is comparable to a natural habitat in the region. This concept is useful to know the degree of conservation of an ecosystem; therefore, it is of interest in forest management. The objective of this study was to develop and apply an Ecological Integrity Index (EII) in an area of temperate forest with timber harvesting. The site had four plant associations: three under timber harvesting (Pinus montezumae, P. patula, and P. pseudostrobus), and one corresponding to a conservation area (Pinus-Quercus). In order to calculate the index, the structure, composition, and function of the forest were evaluated through 20 markers, corresponding to three ecological attributes: landscape, vegetation, and soil. Four possible categories were established: excellent, good, fair and poor. The highest value of the EII was obtained in the conservation area, in the excellent category, while in the associations under harvesting, that of P. patula was rated excellent, and those of P. montezumae and P. pseudostrobus were rated good. In the area under harvesting, observation and minimal intervention are required to maintain and improve EI. The EII made it possible to characterize the associations under management, in addition to identifying the markers that require intervention or further research to maintain EI. This generated a baseline of knowledge of EI in the study area, which may be useful for its management.

Resumen La integridad ecológica (IE) es la propiedad de un ecosistema para soportar y mantener una comunidad de organismos cuya composición, diversidad y organización funcional sea comparable con un hábitat natural de la región. Este concepto es útil para conocer el grado de conservación de un ecosistema, por lo que es de interés en la gestión forestal. El objetivo fue desarrollar y aplicar un Índice de Integridad Ecológica (IIE) en una zona de bosque templado con aprovechamiento maderable. El lugar presentó cuatro asociaciones vegetales: tres bajo aprovechamiento maderable (Pinus montezumae, P. patula y P. pseudostrobus) y una correspondiente a un área de conservación (Pinus-Quercus). Para calcular el índice, se evaluó la estructura, composición y función del bosque a través de 20 indicadores, correspondientes a tres atributos ecológicos: paisaje, vegetación y suelo. Se establecieron cuatro categorías posibles: excelente, buena, regular y baja. El mayor valor del IIE se obtuvo en el área de conservación en la categoría excelente, mientras que en las asociaciones bajo aprovechamiento, la de P. patula se clasificó como excelente y las de P. montezumae y P. pseudostrobus se clasificaron como buenas. En el área bajo aprovechamiento se requiere observación e intervención mínima para mantener y mejorar la IE. El IIE permitió caracterizar las asociaciones bajo manejo, además de identificar los indicadores que requieren de intervención o mayor investigación para mantener la IE. Se generó así una línea base del conocimiento de la IE en el área de estudio, que puede ser útil para su gestión.