Abstract The influence of occupant behaviour in buildings is widely discussed as one of the causes for the gap between energy use estimated via computer simulation and during building operation. Knowing the main drivers for adjustments in building systems is essential to guide the development of mathematical models for such behaviours. The aim of this study is to evaluate the main motivating agents for adjusting windows, luminaires, and air-conditioning in offices. Two offices were monitored using sensors that collected data from the internal environment and user interaction with such systems. Rainfall and external and internal air temperatures were considered influential for the interaction with window systems. The increase in internal and external temperatures had even more influence on interactions with air-conditioners. The main conclusions were: there is influence of the layout of the offices in the sharing and control of windows and efficiency of passive strategies, such as the use of natural and cross ventilation; and there is an influence of the increase in internal temperature compared to external temperature in the predictability of opening windows and turning air-conditioning devices on. operation behaviours luminaires airconditioning conditioning airconditioners. airconditioners conditioners. conditioners air-conditioners strategies ventilation

Resumo Ainfluência do comportamento dos usuários em edificações é amplamente discutida como uma das causas para discrepâncias entre consumos energéticos esperados, durante a fase de projeto, e consumos durante a operação. Conhecer os principais motivadores para ajustes nos sistemas de edificações é imprescindível para aprimorar a modelagem desses comportamentos. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar os principais agentes motivadores para o ajuste das janelas, luminárias e aparelhos de ar-condicionado em escritórios. Dois escritórios foram monitorados por meio de sensores que coletaram dados de qualidade do ambiente interno e comportamento de usuário. Foram consideradas influentes para a interação com sistemas de janelas a pluviometria e as temperaturas do ar externo e interno. O aumento das temperaturas interna e externa apresentou ainda mais influência na interaçãocom aparelhos de ar-condicionado. Duas foram as principais conclusões: há influência do layout dos escritórios no compartilhamento e controle das janelas e eficiência de estratégias passivas, como o uso de ventilação natural e cruzada; e há influência do aumento da temperatura interna em comparação à externa na previsibilidade de abertura de janelas e acionamento de aparelhos de ar-condicionado. esperados projeto operação comportamentos arcondicionado condicionado usuário arcondicionado. condicionado. conclusões passivas cruzada

Resumen (Objetivo) Plasmodium vivax infecta ampliamente a muchas personas en algunas regiones. La singularidad de formar una etapa latente hace que la malaria vivax pueda ser inducida por una recaída por una infección adicional. En el presente estudio, utilizamos un enfoque de simulación dinámica y acoplamiento molecular ara predecir la posibilidad de que compuestos bioactivos de la familia de plantas Zingiberaceae sean candidatos a fármaco contra la malaria dirigiéndose a la proteína de unión a Duffy de Plasmodium vivax (PvDBP). Se requiere la interacción molecular PvDBP-DARC para mediar el proceso de invasión de merozoitos en los glóbulos rojos. La inhibición de este proceso posiblemente pueda controlar el crecimiento y desarrollo del parásito. (Metodología) El análisis de acoplamiento molecular dio como resultado los dos compuestos principales con el valor de energía de unión más bajo, incluida la 5,7-dihidroxiflavanona (-9,3 kcal/mol) y la pinostrobina (-9,2 kcal/mol). (Resultados) Estos compuestos previstos tienen una interacción más fuerte que la cloroquina como control. Además, los compue potenciales también interactúan con los residuos del sitio de unión de DARC y lo mantienen durante el proceso de simulación de dinámica molecular. De lo contrario, la cloroquina como control no puede retener el 75% de los residuos de unión hacia PvDBP. El estudio de dinámica molecular reveló que los tres complejos tienen una estabilidad relativamente similar. (Conclusiones) Predijimos que los dos compuestos bioactivos tienen potencial como inhibidores de la invasión de merozoitos.

Resumo (Objetivo) O Plasmodium vivax infecta amplamente muitas pessoas em algumas regiões. A singularidade de formar um estágio latente significa que a malária vivax pode ser induzida por recaída devido à infecção adicional. No presente estudo, utilizamos uma abordagem de simulação dinâmica e de acoplamento molecular para prever a possibilidade de compostos bioativos da família de plantas Zingiberaceae como candidatos a medicamentos antimaláricos, visand o aproteína de ligação Duffy do Plasmodium vivax (PvDBP). A interação molecular PvDBP-DARC é necessária para mediar o processo de invasão de merozoítos nos glóbulos vermelhos. A inibição deste processo pode possivelmente controlar o crescimento e desenvolvimento do parasita. (Metodologia) A análise de acoplamento molecular resultou nos dois principais compostos com o menor valor de energia de ligação, incluindo ,7-dihidroxiflavanona (-9,3 kcal/mol) e pinostrobina (-9,2 kcal/mol). (Resultados) Esses compostos previstos têm uma interação mais forte do que a cloroquina como controle. Além disso, os compostos potenciais também interagem e mantêm resíduos do sítio de ligação do DARC durante o processo de simulação de dinâmica molecular. Caso contrário, a cloroquina como controle não pode reter 75% dos resíduos de ligação ao três complexos apresentam estabilidade relativa compostos bioativos têm potencial como inibidor Palavras chave: Medicamentos antimalária; ePvmeesdmsilDBP. ntesa invício;O estudo de dinâmica molecular revelou que os emelhante. (Conclusões) Previmos que os dois asão de merozoítos. Plasmodium vivax; PvDBP; Zingiberáceas.

Abstract (Objective) Plasmodium vivax predominantly infects many people in numerous tropical areas, including Southeast Asia, the Western Pacific, the Americas, and the Eastern Mediterranean. The uniqueness of forming dormant stages can lead to relapse in vivax malaria upon further infection. This study used molecular docking and dynamic simulation to predict potential bioactive compounds from the Zingiberaceae plant family as inhibitors by targeting Plasmodium vivax Duffy Binding Protein (PvDBP). PvDBP-DARC molecular interaction is required to mediate the merozoite invasion process into red blood cells. Inhibiting this process can possibly control parasite growth and development. (Methodology) Molecular docking screening was conducted by using 138 natural compounds from the Zingiberaceae plant family targeting Plasmodium vivax Duffy binding protein (PvDBP). The top two compounds with the lowest binding energy were selected to be analyzed by pharmacokinetics prediction and molecular dynamic (MD) simulation. (Results) Molecular docking screening resulted in the top two compounds with the lowest binding energy value, including 5,7-dihydroxyflavanone (-9.3 kcal/mol) and pinostrobin (-9.2 kcal/mol). These compounds are predicted to have stronger interaction than chloroquine as a control. Furthermore, the potential compounds also interact with DARC binding site residues and maintain them during the molecular dynamic simulation process. Otherwise, chloroquine as a control cannot retain 75% binding residues towards PvDBP. A molecular dynamic study revealed that all three complexes have relatively similar stability. (Conclusions) We predicted that the two bioactive compounds (5,7-dihydroxyflavanone and pinostrobin) have the potential as merozoite invasion inhibitors.

Abstract This study aimed to estimate CO2 emission and uptake due to the mixed rendering mortars carbonation process, replacing natural aggregate (NA) with recycled aggregate (RA) and lime contents to produce less emissive final material. Mortars were subjected to natural carbonation in three environments. Carbonation depth was evaluated until 119 days of CO2 environmental exposure, and thermogravimetric analysis determined absorbed carbon content. The scenario evaluation considered different depths for the potential CO2 uptake. It was found that the higher the lime content, the higher the carbon emissions and capture. However, the CO2 captured amount (25.41 KgCO2/m³) does not balance its emission from raw materials production. Replacing NA for RA, the mortars reduced emissions associated with production by approximately 8.15%. The scenario simulation proved that constructive control is essential for rendering mortar depths less than 20 mm, the maximum carbon fixation is reached before rendering. Mortars with recycled aggregate are less emissive, which is essential in selecting more sustainable building materials. CO process (NA RA (RA material environments 11 exposure content capture However 25.41 2541 25 41 (25.4 KgCO2/m³ KgCO2m³ KgCOm KgCO2 m³ KgCO m 815 8 15 8.15% 2 mm 1 25.4 254 4 (25. KgCO2/m KgCO2m 81 8.15 25. (25 8.1 (2 8. (

Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo estimar a emissão e captura de CO2 devido ao processo de carbonatação de argamassas mistas, substituindo agregado natural (AN) por agregado reciclado (AR) e teores de cal para produzir material final menos emissivo. As argamassas foram submetidas à carbonatação natural em três ambientes. A profundidade de carbonatação foi avaliada aos até 119 dias de exposição ao tempo com presença de CO2, e a análise termogravimétrica determinou o teor de carbono absorvido. A avaliação dos cenários considerou diferentes profundidades para o potencial absorção de CO2. Verificou-se que quanto maior o teor de cal, maiores as emissões e captura de carbono. Contudo, a quantidade de CO2 capturada (25,41 KgCO2/m³) não neutraliza a sua emissão proveniente da produção de matérias-primas. Substituindo o AN pelo AR, as argamassas reduziram as emissões associadas à produção, em aproximadamente 8,15%. A simulação dos cenários comprovou que o controle construtivo é essencial, pois em espessuras inferiores a 20 mm a fixação máxima de carbono é alcançada antes da aplicação de revestimento. As argamassas com agregados reciclados são menos emissivas, o que é essencial na seleção de materiais de construção mais sustentáveis. CO mistas (AN AR (AR emissivo ambientes 11 absorvido Verificouse Verificou se Contudo 25,41 2541 25 41 (25,4 KgCO2/m³ KgCO2m³ KgCOm KgCO2 m³ KgCO m matériasprimas. matériasprimas matérias primas. primas matérias-primas 815 8 15 8,15% 2 revestimento emissivas sustentáveis 1 25,4 254 4 (25, KgCO2/m KgCO2m 81 8,15 25, (25 8,1 (2 8, (

Abstract The Galapagos Islands, a natural heritage of humanity, have meticulous control of wildlife and strict inspection of the number and frequency of visitors. The increase in tourists, apart from positive aspects, and the increase in population generates a greater demand for electrical energy. In this sense, Galapagos seeks a boost to comprehensive energy sustainability, replacing thermal energy with environmentally friendly Non-Conventional Renewable Energy (NCRE), through the optimal energy management project through the Conolophus microgrid project. This document analyzes the optimal management of electrical energy (short-term economic dispatch) considering the stochasticity presented by the high insertion of NCRE in the Santa Cruz-Baltra electrical system. For it. The free simulation software called “SimSEE” (Electric Energy Systems Simulator) is used, where operational scenarios are modeled with and without the Conolophus project in order to analyze its impact on the planning of the operation of the Santa Cruz-Baltra system.

Resumen: Las islas Galápagos, patrimonio natural de la humanidad, cuentan con un control minucioso de la vida silvestre y ejercen estricta inspección del número y frecuencia de visitantes. El incremento de turistas, aparte de aspectos positivos, y el incremento de la población genera una mayor demanda de energía eléctrica. En este sentido, Galápagos busca un impulso a la sostenibilidad energética integral, reemplazando la energía térmica con Energías Renovables No Convencionales (ERNC), amigables con el medio ambiente, a través del proyecto de gestión óptima de la energía mediante el proyecto de microrred Conolophus. En el presente documento se analiza la gestión óptima de la energía eléctrica (despacho económico de corto plazo) considerando la estocasticidad que presenta la alta inserción de ERNC en el sistema eléctrico Santa Cruz-Baltra. Para ello. se usa el software libre de simulación denominado “SimSEE” (Simulador de Sistemas de Energía Eléctrica), donde se modelan escenarios operativos con y sin el proyecto Conolophus con la finalidad de analiza su impacto en la planificación de la operación del sistema Santa Cruz-Baltra.

Resumen Este artículo analiza cómo la teoría geopolítica expuesta por Halford Mackinder se ve amenazada por las previsiones del deshielo del Ártico, en el mediano plazo, y cómo estas predicciones transforman el marco estratégico de los países que conforman el territorio, en especial, de la Federación Rusa. Este cambio, que supone el final del Heartland, deja a Rusia en una situación privilegiada por su cercanía y control de las rutas comerciales y los recursos naturales, pero compone también un escenario nuevo en el que la pasada invulnerabilidad marítima queda abierta a experiencias, hasta ahora, desconocidas. Al centrarse en un análisis entre la teoría de Mackinder y la situación actual del Ártico, el artículo trata de dar respuesta a la importancia del Polo Norte, dada su posición geográfica y su naturaleza de mar helado, y a en qué medida puede suponer este una alteración de los equilibrios de poder en el orden regional y global.

Resumo Este artigo analisa a forma como a teoria geopolítica de Halford Mackinder é ameaçada pelas previsões de degelo do Ártico a médio prazo e transforma o quadro estratégico dos países que compõem o território, nomeadamente a Federação Russa. Esta mudança, que marca o fim do Heartland, deixa a Rússia numa situação privilegiada pela sua proximidade e controlo das rotas comerciais e dos recursos naturais, mas cria também um novo cenário em que a invulnerabilidade marítima do passado se abre a experiências até então desconhecidas. Através de uma análise comparativa entre a teoria de Halford Mackinder e a situação atual do Ártico, procuramos responder à questão da importância do Pólo Norte, dada a sua posição geográfica e a natureza do gelo marinho, e em que medida pode alterar os equilíbrios de poder na ordem regional e global.

Abstract This article analyses how the geopolitical theory set out by Halford Mackinder is threatened by forecasts of Arctic ice melt in the medium term and transforms the strategic framework of the countries that make up the territory, especially the Russian Federation. This change, which marks the end of the Heartland, leaves Russia in a privileged situation due to its proximity to and control of trade routes and natural resources, but also creates a new scenario in which past maritime invulnerability is open to hitherto unknown experiences. Focusing on a comparative analysis between Halford Mackinder's theory and the current situation of the Arctic, the article tries to find answers to the the importance of the North Pole, given its geographical position and sea ice nature, and to the extent to which it may entail an alteration of the balance of power in the regional and global order.

Resumen El objetivo de este artículo es presentar los principales argumentos en torno al concepto de desarrollo sostenible empresarial y describir la influencia que éste ha tenido en las empresas y sus operaciones. Se explica la literatura relevante sobre el desarrollo sostenible, sus desafíos actuales y algunas de las direcciones futuras. La argumentación sugiere que antes de desarrollar campañas verdes en los negocios, todavía hay una serie de cuestiones sin resolver en torno al concepto de desarrollo sostenible. Así mismo, existe una necesidad particular de comprender la motivación real de las empresas para la sostenibilidad. Por ejemplo, a nivel de la industria, el comportamiento de una empresa es un tema complejo de controlar, ya sea a través de parámetros legales preestablecidos o mediante un enfoque voluntario. El interés en las prácticas sostenibles ha creado implicaciones importantes para los gerentes de casi todas las industrias que buscan comprender mejor los argumentos en torno al concepto de desarrollo sostenible y el compromiso que las empresas deben asumir para abordar estos desafíos ambientales. Este artículo contribuye a resaltar los desafíos actuales en torno al concepto de desarrollo sostenible describiendo algunos de los desafíos futuros que enfrentará para brindar una mejor aplicación para las empresas.

Abstract The aim of this paper is to present the main arguments around the concept of sustainable development as a business perspective and the influence that this concept has brought to firms and their operations. It explains relevant literature on sustainable development describing its foundations, their current challenges and some of the future directions along which the concept can achieve its intended purpose. The arguments suggest that before calling for a massive green campaign in business, there are unresolved issues around the concept of sustainable development, there is a particular need to understand the real motivation of firms for sustainable. For example, at the industry level, a firm’s behavior is a complex issue to control - either through pre-established legal parameters or through a voluntary approach. The interest in sustainable practices has created important implications for managers in almost every industry looking to better understand the arguments around the concept of sustainable development and the commitment that firms should make to address these environmental challenges. Research centered only on economic benefits or only on environmental issues can lead to an incomplete vision of the opportunities for firms that both approaches can generate if they are correctly combined.

Abstract Currently, on Eucalyptus plantations in Ecuador, the most important pest is Gonipterus sp., and chemical control is the most common practice, but its high cost and inefficiency have led the timber industry to seek alternatives such as biological control. The objective of this research was to understand aspects related to the biology and ecology of Podisus sp., a natural predator of Gonipterus sp. These species were collected in NOVOPAN plantations located in the Imbabura province and then transferred to the GDETERRA-ESPOCH laboratory. Podisus sp. was reared in 100-ml airtight containers at a temperature of 22 °C and a relative humidity of 43%. Initially, they were fed Gonipterus sp. Larvae, and alternatively, larvae of Spodoptera frugiperda. Results revealed a biological cycle from egg to adult of 40 - 45 days, adult longevity of 75 days, and egg production of 30 - 35 per female. Due to insufficient larvae of Gonipterus sp., larvae of Spodoptera frugiperda were used as an alternative food source. The study concludes that it is feasible to rear Podisus sp. under controlled conditions using larvae of both Gonipterus sp. and Spodoptera frugiperda, with the latter being more efficient due to its availability.

Resumen Actualmente en las plantaciones de Eucalyptus en Ecuador, la plaga más importante es Gonipterus sp., el control químico es la práctica más común, pero su alto costo e ineficacia ha llevado a la industria maderera a buscar alternativas, como el control biológico. El objetivo de esta investigación fue conocer aspectos relacionados a la biología y ecología de Podisus sp., depredador natural de Gonipterus sp. La recolección de estas especies se realizó en las plantaciones de la empresa NOVOPAN, ubicada en la provincia de Imbabura, para luego ser trasladados al laboratorio GDETERRA-ESPOCH, donde Podisus sp. fue criado en frascos herméticos de 100 ml, a una temperatura de 22°C y una humedad relativa del 43%. Inicialmente se alimentó con larvas de Gonipterus sp. y como alternativa larvas de Spodoptera frugiperda. Los resultados revelaron un ciclo biológico de huevo a adulto de 40-45 días, longevidad adulta 75 días y una producción de huevos de 30-35 por hembra. Al no obtener suficientes larvas de esta especie, se optó por larvas de Spodoptera frugiperda como alimento. El estudio concluye que es factible criar Podisus sp. en condiciones controladas utilizando larvas de Gonipterus sp. y Spodoptera frugiperda, siendo esta última más eficiente debido a su disponibilidad.

Abstract The stability of the well depends on the control of clay hydration in the geological formations; the cocoa parts were evaluated as an inhibitory additive in drilling fluids, replacing glycol. an additive in drilling fluids, replacing glycol (a commercial clay inhibitor). The experimental scientific method was used to evaluate the inhibitory property (linear swelling reference bentonite in fresh water) of the different concentrations of cocoa fruit and glycol, selecting the lowest percentages. Five drilling fluids were formulated at 3 lbm/bbl of slurry. 3.6 and 9 lbm/bbl of cocoa shell and a fluid with 3 lbm/bbl of glycol corresponding to the standard fluid; additionally, chemical tests were determined in the fluid filtration. The evaluation of drilling fluid formulations with natural inhibitors at 3 lbm/bbl obtained linear swelling of the pulp (41.4%) and shell (56.35%) compared to the commercial inhibitor glycol (45.07%); drilling fluid filtrate that is evaluated through calcium content is 2080 mg/l for pulp. Cocoa pulp has better inhibitory properties than the cocoa shell and seed, making it work as a clay inhibitor. However, when incorporated into the drilling fluid, the high calcium content interferes with the physical and chemical properties required by the drilling fluid.

Resumen La estabilidad del pozo depende del control de hidratación de arcillas en las formaciones geológicas, se evaluó las partes del cacao como aditivo inhibidor en fluidos de perforación, sustituyendo al glicol. Se utilizó el método científico experimental; evaluando la propiedad inhibitoria (hinchamiento lineal referencia bentonita en agua dulce) de las diferentes concentraciones del fruto de cacao y glicol, seleccionando los porcentajes más bajos. Se formularon cinco fluidos de perforación a 3 lbm/bbl de la pulpa. 3,6 y 9 lbm/bbl de cáscara del cacao y un fluido con 3 lbm/bbl de glicol correspondiente al fluido estándar, adicionalmente se determinan pruebas químicas en el filtrado del fluido La evaluación de formulaciones de fluidos de perforación con inhibidores naturales a 3 lbm/bbl se obtiene hinchamiento lineal de la pulpa 41,4%, cáscara 56,35% comparándolo con el inhibidor comercial glicol 45,07%; al filtrado del fluido de perforación que se evalúa a través del contenido de calcio es de 2080 mg/l para la pulpa. La pulpa de cacao tiene mejores propiedades inhibitorias que la cáscara y la semilla, sin embargo, al ser incorporada al fluido de perforación, el alto contenido de calcio interfiere en las propiedades físico químicas requeridas por un fluido de perforación.

The partial or complete loss of vegetation cover triggers an increase in surface runoff, erosion, and sedimentation of water bodies, including reservoirs for hydroelectric power generation, reducing their life expectancy. To control or mitigate this issue, ecological restoration interventions should prioritize the recovery of areas most vulnerable to these processes, such as springs. Conversely, wildfires cause damage to vegetation cover and hinder ecological restoration and/or natural regeneration processes. Therefore, this study aimed to identify - with the aid of Geographic Information Systems - the temporal and spatial likelihood of fire occurrences in spring recharge areas undergoing ecological restoration and contributing to hydroelectric reservoirs in southern Minas Gerais, Brazil. The findings indicated that the months with the highest probability of wildfire occurrences were August and September (accounting for 66% of cases), requiring increased attention to prevention efforts. Furthermore, locations most susceptible to fires (steeper slopes, more flammable vegetation, and higher anthropogenic use) should be treated as priorities for both prevention and ecological restoration actions

A perda parcial ou total da cobertura vegetal desencadeia um aumento do escoamento superficial, erosão e assoreamento de corpos hídricos, entre eles os reservatórios para a geração de energia hidroelétrica, reduzindo sua expectativa de vida útil. Para tentar controlar ou corrigir este problema, intervenções de restauração ecológica devem priorizar a recuperação de áreas mais frágeis a estes processos, como as nascentes. Por outro lado, a ocorrência de incêndios promove danos à cobertura vegetal e inibem os processos de restauração ecológica e/ou regeneração natural. Desta forma, o objetivo deste estudo foi identificar - com o auxílio de Sistemas de Informações Geográficas - a época mais provável e os locais mais susceptíveis aos incêndios, em áreas de recarga de nascentes sob processo de restauração ecológica e que são contribuintes de reservatórios hidroelétricos no sul de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Os resultados demonstraram que os meses de maior probabilidade de ocorrências de incêndios florestais foram agosto e setembro (66% dos casos), o que exigirá maior atenção quando das ações de prevenção. Bem assim, que os locais mais susceptíveis à ocorrência de incêndios (maior inclinação, vegetação mais inflamável e maior uso antrópico) necessitarão ser tratados como prioritários, tanto para ações de prevenção quanto de restauração ecológica

Resumen Debido al uso irracional de productos químicos para el control de plagas en los cultivos intensivos, se han disminuido de manera alarmante la diversidad de comunidades de organismos benéficos, tal es el caso de los ácaros depredadores del orden Mesostigmata. Estos arácnidos han tomado relevancia agrícola debido a que, la mayoría de sus miembros presentan hábitos alimentarios zoofágicos y regulan de manera natural poblaciones perjudiciales de insectos, nematodos y otros ácaros que habitan las plantas. De manera regular, desde hace más de 40 años se introducen los ácaros depredadores para los trabajos de biocontrol y se estima que más de 60% de los programas utilizan estos organismos; sin embargo, los productos comerciales disponibles están limitados a unas pocas especies, las cuales varían en efectividad según las condiciones del cultivo, disponibilidad de presas y competencia de nichos con otros organismos también depredadores, además, su producción está resguardada bajo secreto empresarial en la mayoría de los casos. Con esto, se abre la oportunidad para explorar especies nativas o incluso ya comercializadas, con el fin de evaluar su capacidad depredadora a nivel de investigación o como herramientas habituales para la regulación de plagas, un primer reto para este fin es la propagación y los métodos de cultivo. Los métodos para cultivar ácaros se pueden dividir en dos: mantenimiento sobre plantas y en confinamiento, aunque cada técnica se ha desarrollado para una especie en particular o un fin determinado, el conocer su diseño básico, promete acercarnos a una nueva línea de estudio para su introducción y reintroducción en los sistemas agrícolas.

Abstract Due to the irrational use of chemicals for pest control in intensive crops, the diversity of communities of beneficial organisms, such as the predatory mites of the order Mesostigmata, has been alarmingly diminished,. These arachnids have taken on agricultural relevance because most of their members have zoophagic feeding habits and naturally regulate harmful populations of insects, nematodes and other mites that inhabit plants. For more than 40 years, predatory mites have been introduced regularly for biocontrol work and it is estimated that more than 60% of programs use these organisms; however, the commercial products available are limited to a few species, which vary in effectiveness according to the conditions of the crop, availability of prey and competition for niches with other predatory organisms; in addition, their production is protected under trade secrecy in most cases. With this, the opportunity opens up to explore native or even already commercialized species in order to evaluate their predatory capacity at the research level or as usual tools for pest regulation; a first challenge for this purpose is propagation and culture methods. The methods for mite culture can be divided into two: maintenance on plants and in confinement; although each technique has been developed for a particular species or a certain purpose, knowing their basic design promises to bring us closer to a new line of study for their introduction and reintroduction into agricultural systems.

Resumen El ácido L-ascórbico, es un antioxidante natural producido por las plantas y sus frutos. La abundancia de este ácido durante el desarrollo y la maduración poscosecha del mango (Mangifera indica L.) depende de factores genéticos y climáticos. Los mangos se someten a un tratamiento hidrotérmico cuarentenario, antes de su exportación para control de la mosca de la fruta. El un tratamiento hidrotérmico cuarentenario, consiste en sumergir los mangos en agua a 46.1 °C (118 °F) durante 60 a 120 min dependiendo del tamaño, afectando el contenido de ácido L-ascórbico y otros parámetros de calidad del fruto. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar el efecto del THC en el contenido de ácido L-ascórbico, la firmeza, el color y la expresión de genes de biosíntesis y reciclaje de ácido L-ascórbico durante la postcosecha del mango. Los mangos ‘Ataulfo’ se cosecharon en madurez fisiológica en Escuinapa, Sinaloa en el año 2019, se sometieron a THC (46.1 °C, 75 min), hidroenfriado (25 °C, 30 min) y se almacenaron a 20 °C por nueve días. Los mangos sometidos al THC mostraron reducción en el contenido de ácido L-ascórbico (p≤ 0.05). La firmeza de la pulpa se comportó similar en frutos con THC y en frutos testigo, mientras que el color externo de los frutos con un tratamiento hidrotérmico cuarentenario e indicó un proceso de maduración adelantado respecto a los frutos testigo (p≤ 0.05). Los niveles de transcritos MiGME1, MiGME2, MiGGP2 y MiMDHAR aumentaron en respuesta al tratamiento, lo que sugiere la activación de la ruta de síntesis y reciclaje para contrarrestar el estrés abiótico ocasionado por el calor al que se sometieron los mangos.

Abstract L-ascorbic acid is a natural antioxidant produced by plants and their fruits. The abundance of this acid during the development and postharvest ripening of mangoes (Mangifera indica L.) depends on genetic and climatic factors. The mangoes undergo a quarantine hydrothermal treatment before being exported to control the fruit fly. A quarantine hydrothermal treatment consists of immersing mangoes in water at 46.1 °C (118 °F) for 60 to 120 min depending on the size, affecting the L-ascorbic acid content and other quality parameters of the fruit. This research aimed to evaluate the effect of QHT on L-ascorbic acid content, firmness, color, and expression of L-ascorbic acid biosynthesis and recycling genes during mango postharvest. ‘Ataulfo’ mangoes were harvested at physiological ripeness in Escuinapa, Sinaloa in 2019, subjected to QHT (46.1 °C, 75 min), hydrocooled (25 °C, 30 min) and stored at 20 °C for nine days. Mangoes subjected to QHT showed a reduction in L-ascorbic acid content (p≤ 0.05). The firmness of the pulp behaved similarly in fruits with QHT and in control fruits, while the external color of the fruits with a quarantine hydrothermal treatment indicated an advanced ripening process compared to the control fruits (p≤ 0.05). The levels of MiGME1, MiGME2, MiGGP2, and MiMDHAR transcripts increased in response to treatment, suggesting activation of the synthesis and recycling pathway to counteract the abiotic stress caused by the heat to which the mangoes were subjected.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Low back pain is presented in approximately 9.4% of the world population. Acupuncture is used by Chinese traditional medicine to stimulate certain points of the body with different types of needles. Among its beneficial effects the pain remission is described. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of the acupuntural treatment in patients with lumbar pain assisted in the emergency room. Methods: A quasi-experiment of therapeutic intervention study (without control group) was carried out in 35 patients with lumbar pain, who were assisted in the Natural and Traditional Medicine Emergency Room of Dr. Juan Bruno Zayas Alfonso Teaching General Hospital in Santiago de Cuba, from July to December, 2021. Results: In the investigation there was a prevalence the 40-49 age group (31.4%), female sex (57.1%), housewives, serious and moderate pain at the beginning of the treatment, as well as patients without pain one hour after the therapy. As for the final clinical course, the total of the sample classified in the relieved and improved categories. Conclusions: The effectiveness of acupuncture was demonstrated in patients with acute lumbar pain.

RESUMEN Introducción: La lumbalgia se presenta en aproximadamente 9,4 % de la población mundial. La acupuntura es empleada por la medicina tradicional china para estimular determinados puntos del cuerpo con diferentes tipos de agujas. Entre sus efectos beneficiosos se describe la remisión del dolor. Objetivo: Evaluar la efectividad del tratamiento acupuntural en pacientes con dolor lumbar asistidos en el cuerpo de guardia. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cuasiexperimental de intervención terapéutica (sin grupo control) en 35 pacientes con dolor lumbar, los cuales fueron atendidos en el Cuerpo de Guardia de Medicina Natural y Tradicional del Hospital General Docente Dr. Juan Bruno Zayas Alfonso de Santiago de Cuba, desde julio hasta diciembre del 2021. Resultados: En la investigación primaron el grupo etario de 40-49 años (31,4 %), el sexo femenino (57,1 %), las amas de casa, el dolor entre grave y moderado al inicio del tratamiento, así como los pacientes sin dolor una hora después de la terapia. En cuanto a la evolución final, el total de la muestra clasificó en las categorías de aliviados y mejorados. Conclusiones: Se demostró la efectividad de la acupuntura en pacientes con dolor lumbar agudo.

RESUMEN Es conocido que los bosques, según su estado de conservación, influyen en la calidad ecológica de la red hídrica, en especial las aguas para mantenimiento de la humedad del suelo, si éstas poseen calidad, se atenúan los efectos de la sequía, favoreciendo también la calidad de los suelos; el servicio ecosistémico de biodiversidad con la presencia de un adecuado índice de diversidad de especies, tanto de la flora como de la fauna, garantiza los procesos necesarios relacionados con la polinización, el control natural de plagas, y la calidad estética del paisaje. Para ello, se evaluó el papel de bosques y algunos de sus servicios ecosistémicos, dentro de un polígono demostrativo, para presentar a una propuesta de medidas que favorezcan los mismos, identificándose indicadores y variables de cada servicio ecosistémico estudiado, teniendo en cuenta las problemáticas de cada uno; permitiendo la operacionalización de las variables durante la evaluación, con el fin de mejorar el estado del agua, los suelos y la biodiversidad en el polígono demostrativo Los Monsegui.

RESUMO Sabe-se que as florestas, dependendo de seu estado de conservação, influenciam a qualidade ecológica da rede hídrica, especialmente a água utilizada para manter a umidade do solo; se forem de boa qualidade, os efeitos da seca são atenuados, favorecendo também a qualidade do solo; o serviço ecossistêmico da biodiversidade, com a presença de um índice adequado de diversidade de espécies, tanto da flora quanto da fauna, garante os processos necessários relacionados à polinização, ao controle natural de pragas e à qualidade estética da paisagem. Para isso, o papel das florestas e alguns de seus serviços ecossistêmicos foram avaliados em um polígono de demonstração, a fim de apresentar uma proposta de medidas que os favoreçam, identificando indicadores e variáveis para cada serviço ecossistêmico estudado, levando em conta os problemas de cada um deles; permitindo a operacionalização das variáveis durante a avaliação, com o objetivo de melhorar o estado da água, dos solos e da biodiversidade no polígono de demonstração de Los Monsegui.

ABSTRACT It is known that forests, depending on their state of conservation, influence the ecological quality of the water network, especially the waters to maintain soil humidity. If these have quality, the effects of drought are attenuated, also favoring the soil quality. The ecosystem service of biodiversity with the presence of an adequate index of species diversity, both flora and fauna, guarantees the necessary processes related to pollination, natural pest control, and the aesthetic quality of the landscape. For this, the role of forests and some of their ecosystem services were evaluated, within a demonstrative polygon, to present a proposal for measures that favor them, identifying indicators and variables of each ecosystem service studied, taking into account the problems of each one; allowing the operationalization of the variables during the evaluation, in order to improve the state of water, soils and biodiversity in the Los Monsegui demonstration site.

Abstract: The end, in view of the research, is to effectively utilize natural fiber (basalt) to reinstate the mechanical strength lost by the ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) matrix when the metallic steel fibers are quantitatively curtailed. Also, the river sand is fractionally ousted from the mixture, and manufactured sand is substituted. In addition to the preliminary constituents of UHPC, nano silica was adopted for the adequate packing of the matrix, which aids in strength-gaining reaction as well. To induce sustainability and implement waste utilization, two different proportions using M-Sand were made with 30% and 4% replacement levels, and for each proportion of M-Sand, five different mixes were made for varying fiber incorporation. Including the control mix made without any fiber, a total of 12 mixes were made. Among the fibrous mixes, two were metallic fibrous mixtures, and the rest were hybrid fibrous mixtures, and inter-comparisons were done accordingly. The metallic fibers were added in 1% and 2%, and natural fibers were incorporated in 1%, 2%, and 3% in volumetric fractions. From the trial mixes it was identified that the inclusion of Basalt fibers of more than 3% resulted in reduced workability, and so the addition of basalt fibers was restricted to 3%. The water-to-binder ratio of the UHPC matrix ranged between 0.15 and 0.17, depending upon the dosage of fibers. High range water reducer (HRWR) was mixed with water during casting, to develop the workability. The specimens were tested for compressive strength, split tensile strength, and impact energy resistance. It was identified that the annexation of 1% steel and 3% basalt fibers with 30% M-Sand was effective as they showed better compressive strength and impact resistance than the other combinations. Further Scanning Electron Microscopic (SEM) imaging and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), which were conducted, also validated the inference from the experimental investigations

Abstract Symbioses between plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) provide many advantages, including a reduced need for fertilization. In this study, the effects of AMF inoculation and phosphorus application on the growth and nutritional status of Araucaria angustifolia seedlings were evaluated. The treatments included inoculation with AMF (Gigaspora margarita, Rhizophagus intraradices, Acaulospora colombiana, Acaulospora scrobiculata, or Dentiscutata heterogama), inoculation with a mixture of AMF in 100 g of 50-year-old araucaria forest soil, application of two doses of P2O5 (25 or 100 mg kg-1), and the control. A completely randomized design was used, with seven replicates per treatment. The growth parameters, macronutrient and micro-nutrient contents, root colonization, and mycorrhizal effects on the extracted nutrients were evaluated at 75 and 150 d post germination. Analysis of variance, correlations, and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to evaluate that data. Inoculation with AMF had favorable effects on growth parameters, root colonization, and the extraction of macronutrients and micro-nutrients. In particular, the mixture of AMF from the 50-year-old araucaria forest soil, R. intraradices, and A. colombiana were beneficial. Similarly, the application of 25 mg of P2O5 significantly affected the growth of A. angustifolia seedlings compared to other treatments and increased the efficiency of root colonization.

Resumen La simbiosis entre plantas y hongos micorrízicos arbusculares (FMA) tiene muchas ventajas, entre ellas la reducción de la fertilización. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar el efecto de la inoculación de especies de FMA y la aplicación de fósforo sobre el crecimiento y estado nutricional de plántulas de Araucaria angustifolia. Los tratamientos que incluyeron la inoculación de especies de FMA (Gigaspora margarita, Rhizophagus intraradices, Acaulospora colombiana, Acaulospora scrobiculata y Dentiscutata heterogama), aplicación de 100 g de un suelo de bosque de araucaria de 50 años, dos dosis de P2O5 (25 y 100 mg kg-1) y un testigo, se distribuyeron en un diseño completamente al azar, con siete repeticiones por cada tratamiento. Se evaluaron a los 75 y 150 días después de la germinación los parámetros de crecimiento, el contenido de macro y micronutrientes, la colonización radicular y el efecto micorrízico de los nutrientes extraídos. Los datos obtenidos fueron sometidos al análisis de varianza, correlación y componentes principales (PCA). La inoculación de especies de FMA brindaron respuestas favorables sobre los parámetros de crecimiento, colonización radicular y sobre la extracción de macro y micronutrientes, destacando la mezcla con especies de FMA del suelo proveniente del bosque de araucaria de 50 años y las especies Rhizophagus intraradices y Acaulospora colombiana. Así mismo, la aplicación de 25 mg de P2O5 influyo significativamente sobre los parámetros de crecimiento de las plántulas de Araucaria angustifolia en relación con los otros tratamientos, además de incrementar la eficiencia en la colonización radicular.