In recent years, the field of coordination chemistry has experienced a surge in interest regarding the synthesis and characterization of coordination complexes for diverse applications. This study is dedicated to investigating coordination compounds resulting from the interaction of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with metal ions. The study research places significant emphasis on understanding the stability and thermal behavior of these coordination compounds. The utilization of thermoanalytical techniques is crucial in achieving this goal. Thermal analysis and thermokinetics provide valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms, kinetics, and energetics of these reactions, thereby facilitating the optimization of synthesis procedures. The research employs concurrent techniques, namely thermogravimetric analysis (TG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), to explore the thermal stability and decomposition pathways of these coordination compounds. Thermokinetic models and optimization methodologies are subsequently applied to identify key reaction parameters. The primary aim of this research is to unveil the thermal behavior, stability, and reaction kinetics of aceclofenac coordination compounds, thus contributing significantly to the understanding of thermokinetics and thermal analysis in the domain of coordination chemistry. Specifically, this study is focused on aceclofenac coordination complexes involving lanthanum and gadolinium, with the ultimate goal of advancing the field of coordination chemistry. years applications antiinflammatory anti inflammatory NSAIDs (NSAIDs ions mechanisms reactions procedures TG (TG DSC, DSC , (DSC) parameters Specifically gadolinium (DSC

Acetic acid bacteria (AAB) are versatile organisms that catalyze the conversion of a wide range of carbon sources into biomolecules of great industrial interest. In this study, we exploited the ability of Gluconobacter spp. to synthesize levans. Among the isolated strains, Gluconobacter cerinus UELBM11 produced approximately 14.0 g L−1 of levan under non-optimized conditions. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses confirmed that levan obtained from G. cerinus UELBM11 consisted of a β-(2→6)-D-fructose backbone with some β-(2→1) ramifications. The average molecular weight (Mw) of the purified levan was 8.78 × 105 Da. Thermogravimetric/differential thermogravimetric (TGA/DTG) analysis indicated high thermal stability, with the maximum decomposition rate observed at 227.44 °C. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a microporous morphology, and the antioxidant activity assays demonstrated that levan had a high scavenging capacity of 2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and hydroxyl radicals. Therefore, it has been demonstrated the levan produced by G. cerinus UELBM11 is a promising natural antioxidant and, owing to its microporosity and excellent thermal properties and stability, is a potential candidate as an additive in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food products. AAB (AAB interest study spp levans strains UELBM UELBM1 140 14 0 14. L1 L 1 L− nonoptimized non optimized conditions chromatographymass chromatography mass GCMS, GCMS GC MS , (GC-MS) FTIR, FTIR (FTIR) NMR (NMR G β2→6Dfructose β26Dfructose βDfructose β 2→6 D fructose 2 6 β2→1 β21 2→1 β-(2→1 ramifications Mw (Mw 878 8 78 8.7 10 Da Thermogravimetricdifferential Thermogravimetric differential TGA/DTG TGADTG TGA DTG (TGA/DTG stability 22744 227 44 227.4 C °C SEM (SEM morphology 2,2azinobis 22azinobis azinobis 2,2 azino bis 3ethylbenzothiazoline6sulfonic ethylbenzothiazolinesulfonic 3 ethylbenzothiazoline sulfonic ABTS (ABTS radicals Therefore cosmetics pharmaceuticals products (GC-MS (FTIR β2 6Dfructose Dfructose 26 2→ β2→ 21 β-(2→ 87 7 8. 2274 22 4 227. 2azinobis 2, β-(2 β-( β-

The emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) stands for being the most serious epidemic (so far) of the 21st century. However, only a few computational studies have investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the neutralization of the spike protein by antibodies of different classes. Hence, bioinformatic methods were employed to unravel the factors contributing to the remarkable neutralization capacity exhibited by specific antibodies. Initially, crystallographic structures of IgA monomeric / dimeric, IgG, and IgM antibodies binding with the receptor-binding domain region of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein were retrieved. Subsequently, rigid molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations were performed over 100 ns with explicit water solvation. Lastly, an energy decomposition was conducted to estimate the binding affinity using the last frames from molecular dynamics. The results revealed a higher binding affinity for both monomeric and dimeric forms of IgA antibodies against the spike protein. Additionally, a greater number of hydrogen bonds were observed during their interaction with the spike protein, as well as greater structural instability along the time and especially a more thermodynamically favorable interaction affinity. In this way, the research contributes a small piece to the complex puzzle of understanding the humoral immune response induced by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. SARSCoV2 SARSCoV SARS CoV (SARS-CoV-2 so far st century However classes Hence Initially IgG receptorbinding receptor SARS-CoV- retrieved Subsequently 10 solvation Lastly dynamics Additionally way virus (SARS-CoV- SARS-CoV 1 (SARS-CoV

This study highlights the synthesis of innovative polyurethane materials derived from Moringa oleifera oils extracted from two distinct sources. The oils were converted into their respective polyols through the in situ generated performic acid method. Diverse material characteristics were observed due to different agroclimatic and cultivation conditions for the sources. Extraction yields were 45.21% (source 1) and 40.32% (source 2), with acid values of 28.70 and 26.00 mg KOH per g of oil, respectively. Oleic acid constituted 79.87 and 67.11% of the oils composition, respectively. Nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the hydroxylation of the oils. FTIR also identified the isocyanate structures in the synthesized polyurethane materials. Gel permeation chromatography analysis revealed a higher oligomer content in the polyol synthesized from the oil extracted from source 2. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated enhanced thermal stability post-oil conversion, highlighting decomposition stages for rigid and flexible segments. Differential scanning calorimetry indicated higher unsaturation in the oil extracted from source 1, resulting in an elevated crystallization temperature. Tensile testing showed increased elasticity as the [NCO]/[OH] ratio decreased in the material, emphasizing the influence of polyol and crosslinking agent concentrations on mechanical resistance of polyurethane materials. sources method 4521 45 21 45.21 1 4032 40 32 40.32 2, 2 , 2) 2870 28 70 28.7 2600 26 00 26.0 respectively 7987 79 87 79.8 6711 67 11 67.11 composition (FTIR postoil post conversion segments temperature NCO/OH NCOOH NCO / OH [NCO]/[OH 452 4 45.2 403 3 40.3 287 7 28. 260 0 26. 798 8 79. 671 6 67.1 45. 40. 67.

Phosphate species can affect aquatic ecosystems, as excess of this nutrient can cause eutrophication, generating environmental impacts. Lamellar double hydroxides have shown promise in removing phosphate at low concentrations (10-50 mg L 1). In this context, lamellar double hydroxides were synthesized interspersed with nitrates and humic substances, searching for a new product that favors phosphorus adsorption. X-ray diffraction showed the presence of characteristic peaks of lamellar double hydroxides and thermogravimetric analysis showed the decomposition behavior of lamellar structure. The adsorption capacity occurred quickly (< 30 min), being more efficient for lamellar double hydroxides with NO3. The maximum adsorption capacity showed results of 35.03 and 44.20 mg g 1 for lamellar double hydroxides with humic substances and lamellar double hydroxides with NO3, respectively. The complexation capacity showed that pH directly influences complexation, being greater for lamellar double hydroxides with humic substances at pH 6.5. Thus, nanostructured materials with humic substances are promising for use in contaminant remediation and adsorption can be a fast and efficient technique for use in soil and water. ecosystems eutrophication impacts 1050 10 50 (10-5 1. . 1) context Xray X ray structure < ( 3 min, min , min) NO3 NO 3503 35 03 35.0 4420 44 20 44.2 respectively 65 6 5 6.5 Thus water 105 (10- 350 0 35. 442 4 2 44. 6. (10 (1

This study details the preparation, antileishmanial assay, and in silico analysis of twenty 2-hydroxy-3-(1,2,3-triazolyl)propyl vanillin derivatives. These compounds were synthesized in three steps and evaluated against Leishmania infantum, Leishmania amazonensis, and Leishmania braziliensis promastigotes. Compounds 3s and 3t were the most effective, showing good activity against all Leishmania species tested. Molecular docking indicated that all compounds bind favorably to the sterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51) enzyme from L. infantum. ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity) analysis indicated good oral bioavailability, non blood-brain barrier penetration, and high gastrointestinal absorption. Posaconazole and compounds 3e, 3s, and 3t remained stable in the CYP51 binding region during 100 ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Root mean square deviation (RMSD) and root mean square fluctuations (RMSF) analyses from the MD trajectory revealed significant conformational fluctuations of the CYP51 N-terminal, suggesting occasional expulsion of 3e, potentially explaining its higher IC50 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration) values. Pairwise decomposition analyses from molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM/PBSA) calculations highlighted the importance of hydrophobic residues in interacting with the synthesized derivatives. preparation assay 2hydroxy31,2,3triazolylpropyl 2hydroxy3123triazolylpropyl hydroxytriazolylpropyl 2 hydroxy 3 1,2,3 triazolyl propyl 1 derivatives infantum amazonensis promastigotes s t effective tested 14αdemethylase αdemethylase 14α demethylase α CYP (CYP51 L absorption, absorption (absorption distribution metabolism toxicity bioavailability bloodbrain blood brain penetration 3e e CYP5 10 (MD simulations RMSD (RMSD RMSF (RMSF Nterminal, Nterminal N terminal, terminal N-terminal IC IC5 halfmaximal half maximal concentration values PoissonBoltzmann Poisson Boltzmann MM/PBSA MMPBSA MM PBSA (MM/PBSA 2hydroxy31 3triazolylpropyl triazolylpropyl 123 1,2, (CYP5 2hydroxy3 12 1,2 (CYP 2hydroxy 1,

Resumo O concreto quando exposto a elevadas temperaturas tem suas propriedades alteradas e os processos de recuperação são dependentes da intensidade destas modificações. O objetivo deste artigo foi avaliar a influência das altas temperaturas nas propriedades do concreto, em uma faixa na qual a estrutura ainda pode ser recuperada, e a verificação dos efeitos gerados no material quando submetidos a resfriamento natural e resfriamento rápido. Para isto se desenvolveu o programa experimental com três traços de concreto, os quais foram expostos a temperaturas de 100 ºC, 300 ºC, 450 ºC e 600 ºC; subdivididos em grupos de resfriamento lento e rápido. Com a elevação da temperatura, intensificam-se os processos de fissuração e alterações microestruturais, as quais geram redução nas resistências mecânicas e o aumento da absorção. Verificou-se que o módulo de elasticidade foi a propriedade mais afetada por estas alterações. As correlações entre o módulo de elasticidade e as demais propriedades foram acompanhadas pelo aumento da microfissuração do concreto, perda de água e decomposição das fases da pasta, sendo observada posterior reidratação da etringita durante o resfriamento do concreto. modificações recuperada rápido 10 30 45 60 temperatura intensificamse intensificam microestruturais absorção Verificouse Verificou pasta 1 3 4 6

Abstract Concrete, when exposed to high temperatures, has its properties changed, and the recovery processes depend on the intensity of these changes. This paper aimed to evaluate the influence of high temperatures on concrete properties and verify the effects generated in the material when submitted to natural and fast cooling. Three different concrete mixes were exposed to temperatures of 100 °C, 300 ºC, 450 ºC, and 600 ºC, subdivided into slow and fast cooling groups. With the increase in temperature, cracking processes and microstructural alterations intensified, generating reductions in mechanical strength and increases in absorptions. This study has identified that the elastic modulus was the property most affected by these changes. The correlations between the elastic modulus and the other properties were accompanied by increased concrete micro-cracking, water loss, and decomposition of paste phases. Also, it was found an effect of ettringite rehydration during concrete cooling. Concrete changed changes 10 C °C 30 ºC 45 60 groups temperature intensified absorptions microcracking, microcracking micro cracking, micro-cracking loss phases Also 1 3 4 6

ABSTRACT One of the consequences of climate change is sea level change in coastal systems, which function as a baseline, where a variety of coastal processes operate at different time and space scales. The objective of the present research is to calculate the historic and current rate of sea level rise, from Limon tide gauge station’s data. Two methods were utilized for this purpose: Simple linear regression analysis and time series decomposition; with the first method, a rate of 2.32 mm/yr of sea level change was obtained for the time period 1952 to 1968; with the second one, a rate result of 3.41 mm/yr which is consequent with the existing publications. In the current period (2009 - 2021) a rate of 4.18 mm/yr was obtained with the first method and 4.28 mm/yr with the second method. The results gathered confirm the existence of an upward trend in sea level rise in the studied region. This situation should be considered when studying the transformation taking place in the coast, such as the coastal erosion identified in some of the Costa Rican Caribbean zone.

RESUMEN Entre las consecuencias del cambio climático en los sistemas costeros está el cambio del nivel del mar, el cual funciona como una línea base sobre la cual opera una variedad de procesos costeros, a diferentes escalas de tiempo y espacio. La presente investigación tiene por objetivo calcular la tasa histórica y actual de ascenso del nivel del mar a partir de datos de la estación mareográfica Limón. Para esto se utilizaron dos métodos: el análisis de regresión lineal simple y una descomposición de series temporales. Como resultado se obtuvo una tasa de cambio del nivel del mar para el período 1952 a 1968 de 2.32 mm/año con el primer método y 3.41 mm/año para el segundo método, que es consecuente con las publicaciones existentes. En el caso del período actual (2009 a 2021) se obtuvo una tasa de 4.18 mm/año para el primer método y 4.28 mm/año con el segundo método. Los resultados obtenidos confirman que existe una tendencia al aumento del nivel del mar en la región estudiada, situación que debe ser considerada al estudiar las transformaciones que están ocurriendo en la costa, como lo son la erosión costera identificada en algunas zonas del Caribe costarricense.

Abstract The main theories about the decomposition of lexical verbs in semantics or syntax differentiate at least a change component and a causative component controlled by the subject. If both components are autonomous, it is expected that there are intentional verbs without an outcome that function as lexical verbs –not as auxiliaries–. This article argues that, indeed, there exists a well-defined class of non-auxiliary verbs that lack an outcome but semantically entail that an agent acts with the intention of achieving it. This work describes their properties in detail and discusses their theoretical implications for the notion of the 'causative component'.

Resumen Las principales teorías sobre la descomposición de los verbos léxicos en semántica o sintaxis diferencian al menos un componente de cambio y un componente causativo, controlado por el sujeto. Si ambos componentes son autónomos, se espera que haya verbos de intención sin resultado que actúen como verbos léxicos –no como auxiliares–. Este trabajo argumenta que, efectivamente, existe una clase bien definida de verbos no auxiliares que carecen de un resultado pero entrañan semánticamente que un agente actúa con la intención de obtenerlo. El estudio describe en detalle sus propiedades y discute sus consecuencias teóricas para la noción de 'componente causativo'.

Resumen (Objetivo) El estudio tuvo como objetivo examinar bajo la mirada de la teoría APOE (acción, proceso, objeto y esquema), la producción de estudiantes de educación secundaria al aboradar 11 ítems relacionados con la función exponencial. (Metodología) El enfoque fue de corte cualitativo, a través del análisis de contenido. La muestra fue de 15 estudiantes (entre 15 a 18 años), nominados de manera no probabilística con interés de obtener la mayor cantidad de información. Para el diseño del instrumento intencionado desde la teoría, se construyó una descomposición genética hipotética del concepto de función exponencial como objeto cognitivo de acuerdo con las estructuras (acción, proceso, objeto y esquema) y mecanismos mentales (interiorización, coordinación, encapsulación, desencapsulación, reversión), para interpretar la construcción mental que realizan los estudiantes sobre la función en estudio, con base en su desarrollo histórico epistemológico, la presentación en textos escolares y la experiencia del investigador. (Resultados) En el nivel de resultados se evidenció que 13 estudiantes muestran una concepción acción de la función estudiada y 2 estudiantes que llegaron a construir el concepto como proceso. (Conclusiones) Se concluye que los estudiantes construyen el concepto de función exponencial como acción, es decir, todo lo relacionado con procesos repetitivos y mecánicos con potencias, cálculo de imágenes, representación gráfica, solución de ecuaciones exponenciales, incluso algunos estudiantes dan respuesta a los ítems sin realizar explícitamente todos los pasos requeridos en la resolución. Dichos resultados evidencian ausencia de un proceso mental de la función exponencial y por consecuencia la encapsulación de él en el objeto función exponencial.

Resumo (Objetivo) O objetivo do estudo foi examinar, soba perspectiva da teoria APOE (ação, processo, objeto e esquema), a produção de alunos do ensino médio ao lidarem com 11 itens relacionados à função exponencial. (Metodologia) A abordagem foi qualitativa, por meio de análise de conteúdo. A amostra consistiu em 15 alunos (com idades entre 15 e 18 anos), nomeados em uma base não probabilística com o objetivo de obter o máximo de informações possível. Para a elaboração do instrumento baseado na teoria, foi construída uma decomposição genética hipotética do conceito de função exponencial como objeto cognitivo, de acordo com as estruturas (ação, processo, objeto e esquema) e os mecanismos mentais (internalização, coordenação, encapsulamento, desencapsulamento, reversão), a fim de interpretar a construção mental feita pelos alunos sobre a função em estudo, com base no seu desenvolvimento epistemológico histórico, na apresentação em textos escolares e na experiência do pesquisador. (Resultados) Em nível de resultados, ficou evidente que 13 alunos apresentam uma concepção de ação da função estudada e 2 alunos que conseguiram construir o conceito como um processo. (Conclusões) Conclui-se que os alunos constroemo conceito de função exponencial como uma ação, ou seja, tudo o que está relacionado a processos repetitivos e mecânicos com potências, cálculo de imagens, representação gráfica, solução de equações exponenciais, inclusive alguns alunos dão respostas aos itens sem realizar explicitamente todos os passos exigidos na resolução. Esses resultados mostram a ausência de um processo mental da função exponencial e, consequentemente, o encapsulamento dele no objeto da função exponencial.

Abstract (Objective) The objective of this study was to examine, in the light of the APOS theory (action, process, object, and schema), the results produced by secondary school students when addressing 11 items related to the exponential function. (Methodology) The approach was qualitative, using content analysis. The sample consisted of 15 students between 15 and 18 years old, chosen in a non-probabilistic way to obtain the greatest amount of information. Based upon the theory, an instrument was designed which consisted of a hypothetical genetic decomposition of the concept of exponential function as a cognitive object, according to structures (action, process, object and schema) and mental mechanisms (interiorization, coordination, encapsulation, decapsulation, and investment), to interpret the mental construct that students create about the function being studied, based on its historical epistemological development, its presentation in school textbooks and the experience of the researcher. (Results) At the level of results, it was found that 13 students showed an action conception of the function being studied and 2 students built the concept at the process level. (Conclusion) Students most often built the concept of an exponential function at the action level, that is, everything related to repetitive and mechanical processes with powers, image calculation, graphic representation, solution of exponential equations; some students even responded to the items without explicitly performing all the steps required for their resolution. These results demonstrated the absence of a mental process related to the exponential function and its consequent encapsulation into an exponential function object.

Abstract: The objective of this research study is to analyze the mental structures of a cognitive model of isomorphism of vector spaces, called Genetic Decomposition, based on the elements of the APOS (Action, Process, Object, and Scheme) theory. This is validated as evidence of postulation reasoning, which is part of the characterization of advanced mathematical thinking. Characterizing advanced mathematical thinking of linear algebra to improve learning on this topic is a necessity. The methodological cycle of the theory is applied, and the Genetic Decomposition model proposed for the notion of isomorphism of vector spaces is tested in a case study made up of three initial teacher-training students through a questionnaire. The results show that the reorganization of the scheme's components allows the generation of a new scheme of the notion. It is concluded that this reveals a form of reasoning in linear algebra.

Resumen: El objetivo de esta investigación es analizar las estructuras mentales de un modelo cognitivo del isomorfismo de espacios vectoriales, llamado Descomposición Genética, con base en los elementos de la teoría APOE (Acción, Proceso, Objeto y Esquema). Se valida como evidencia del razonamiento de postulación, el cual forma parte de la caracterización del pensamiento matemático avanzado. Caracterizar el pensamiento matemático avanzado del álgebra lineal para mejorar los aprendizajes de este tópico es una necesidad. Se aplica el ciclo metodológico de la teoría y se pone a prueba el modelo de Descomposición Genética propuesto para la noción de isomorfismo de espacios vectoriales a un caso de estudio conformado por tres estudiantes de formación inicial docente, a través de un cuestionario. Los resultados muestran que la reorganización de los componentes del esquema permite la generación de un nuevo esquema de la noción. Se concluye que esto pone de manifiesto una forma de razonamiento en el álgebra lineal.

Abstract: One of the main challenges in teacher education is the integration of the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and adaptive capacities necessary to handle the complexities of teaching. Research in practice-based teacher education -focusing on ‘pedagogies of practice’ (representation, decomposition, and approximation)- offers a framework for achieving this integration. This approach identifies the practices that every novice teacher should master by the end of their initial training, along with the methodologies to develop them during their education. This special issue, Towards Practice-Based Teacher Education, presents seven empirical studies conducted in Latin America (6) and Europe (1), addressing this training from diverse perspectives and methodologies. The studies focus on phenomena such as modeling by teacher educators, the development of the skill of ‘noticing’, video observation, simulations, tele-immersion, and the university-school relationship. Based on the analysis of these studies, we discuss the need to incorporate feedback, recomposition, and evaluation into the pedagogies of practice.

Resumen: Uno de los principales desafíos en la formación docente es integrar los conocimientos teóricos y prácticos con las capacidades adaptativas necesarias para manejar las complejidades de la enseñanza. La investigación en formación docente basada en la práctica -centrada en las ‘pedagogías de la práctica’ (representación, descomposición y aproximación)- ofrece un marco para lograr esta integración. Este enfoque identifica las prácticas que todo docente novato debe dominar al finalizar su formación inicial, así como las metodologías para desarrollarlas durante su formación. Este número temático Hacia una formación docente basada en la práctica presenta siete estudios empíricos, realizados en Latinoamérica (6) y Europa (1), que abordan este tipo de formación desde diversas perspectivas y metodologías. Los estudios se centran en fenómenos como el modelamiento por parte de los formadores, el desarrollo de la habilidad de noticing, la observación de videos, las simulaciones, la tele-inmersión y la relación entre universidad y escuela. A partir del análisis de estos estudios, se discute la necesidad de incorporar la retroalimentación, la recomposición y la evaluación en las pedagogías de la práctica.

The decomposition of a body, and the associated gaseous and liquid discharges emanating from it, attract gravid female blow flies which lay their eggs in or on the body. After the eggs have hatched, the emerging larvae start feeding on the body. As decomposition progresses, the blow fly larvae often migrate away, typically in a random manner in search of favourable conditions for pupation. In this paper, we report on a rarely described phenomenon of unidirectional mass migration of blow fly larvae and postulate on the factors which may drive this process. A decomposition trial utilising a 60-kg pig carcass, deployed in the summer months in Table Mountain National Park, Cape Town, South Africa, was conducted in 2022. On the fifth day of the trial, simultaneous unidirectional mass dispersal of blow fly larvae was observed. The larvae moved downhill in a southeasterly direction, following the flow of decomposition fluids oozing out from the pig carcass. The 'larval migration stream' had a length of approximately 1.5 m with a width of 40 cm, tapering to 17 cm at the terminal point. The larval migration stream consisted of the larvae of Chrysomya albiceps and Chrysomya chloropyga. This study demonstrates the importance of understanding the timing and pattern of dispersal of post-feeding blow fly larvae in each geographical region. This is crucial as the minimum post-mortem interval can be miscalculated if older immature insects dispersing from the corpse are not considered and collected during crime scene investigations. SIGNIFICANCE: • Understanding the timing and pattern of dispersal of blow fly larvae from decomposing vertebrate remains in each geographical region is important in time-since-death estimations when using entomological evidence. • In the summer season of the Western Cape Province, Chrysomya albiceps and Chrysomya chloropyga are among the blow fly species of forensic importance as they deposit their eggs on vertebrate remains. • When a decomposing body is found within the Table Mountain region, we suggest that crime scene investigators should examine the downhill area of the scene for larval/pupal entomological evidence that can assist in time and season of death estimations.

ABSTRACT: The evaluation of the structural trunk condition is fundamental in determining the risk to people and urban infrastructure. The objectives were: 1) to evaluate indicators of the presence and severity of internal decomposition of the trunk of ash (Fraxinus uhdei) in the Molino de Flores Netzahualcóyotl National Park, 2) to determine the association between the basic visual level of risk and the severity of decay, and 3) determine the external visual characteristics of the tree that influence the probability of the presence of internal trunk decay. The risk of 50 trees was evaluated using the Porkorny method and the presence of decay was determined using a resistograph in two areas of the trunk: 30 cm (Base) and 1.3 m (DN) height from the ground. The severity of decay was determined by the sound wood- stem radius ratio. In general, the presence of internal decomposition was 30 %, being more frequent and severe in the base area than in the DAP. There is a moderate negative association between decay severity and risk rating. Finally, the presence of external visual indicators of decay at the base of the trunk and the presence of exposed roots with lesions are the two factors that predict the presence of internal decay of the ash tree trunk. These results contribute to the generation of more accurate ratings in basic level risk assessments.

RESUMEN: La evaluación del estado estructural del tronco de los árboles es fundamental en la determinación del riesgo para las personas y la infraestructura urbana. Los objetivos fueron: 1) evaluar indicadores de la presencia y severidad de descomposición interna del tronco de fresno (Fraxinus uhdei) en el Parque Nacional Molino de Flores Netzahualcóyotl, 2) determinar la asociación entre el nivel visual básico de riesgo y la severidad de descomposición, y 3) determinar las características visuales externas del árbol que influyen en la probabilidad de presencia de descomposición interna del tronco. Se evaluó el riesgo de 50 árboles mediante el método de Porkorny y se determinó la presencia de la descomposición mediante un resistógrafo en dos zonas del tronco: a 30 cm (Base) y a 1,3 m (DN) de altura del suelo. La severidad de la descomposición se determinó mediante la relación “madera sana y el radio del tronco”. De manera general, la presencia de descomposición interna fue de 30 %, siendo más frecuente y severa en la zona de la base que en el DN. Existe una asociación moderada negativa entre la severidad de la descomposición y la calificación de riesgo. Finalmente, la presencia de indicadores visuales externos de descomposición en la base del tronco y la presencia de raíces expuestas con lesiones son los dos factores que predicen la presencia de descomposición interna del tronco del fresno. Estos resultados contribuyen a la generación de calificaciones más certeras en las evaluaciones de riesgo de un nivel básico.

Insects are one of the most species-rich groups on Earth. They comprise much of animal diversity and play vital roles in ecosystems, including pollination, pest control, and decomposition. However, only a fraction of this diversity has been formally described. South Africa is recognised as one of the most biologically diverse countries globally, with an estimated 44 000 insect species. Many crops rely on insect pollinators, including canola, apples, oranges, and sunflowers. A shortage of wild pollinators currently threatens crop yields, yet our knowledge of insect diversity within South Africa is sparse. There are few taxonomic specialists relative to South Africa's biodiversity, and the methods used for insect identification can be time-consuming and expensive. DNA barcoding provides an important research tool to accelerate insect biodiversity research. In this review, we queried the public DNA barcoding BOLD (Barcode of Life Data System) database for records of "Insecta" within South Africa, and 416 211 published records assigned to 28 239 unique BINs (Barcode Index Numbers) were returned. We identified five taxonomic orders with more BINs than known species in southern Africa (Hymenoptera, Diptera, Thysanoptera, Plecoptera, and Strepsiptera). Most of the barcoded records were derived from Malaise trap sampling in Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo, while the rest of South Africa remains poorly sampled. We suggest that there is a need for a comprehensive national sampling effort alongside increased investment in taxonomic expertise to generate critical baseline data on insect biodiversity before species are lost to extinction. SIGNIFICANCE: Insects provide critical ecosystem services, but our knowledge of insect biodiversity is limited. DNA barcoding can help fill biodiversity knowledge gaps; however, within South Africa, sampling has been uneven. Well-sampled provinces include Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo, while the Eastern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Cape, North-West and Western Cape remain under-sampled. We argue for a broad national Malaise trapping effort to generate crucial baseline data on insect biodiversity. Without urgent investment in taxonomic expertise and biomonitoring, we risk losing much of our biodiversity before it is even described.