BACKGROUND: A steady growth in the use of medication for the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been evident over the past few decades. While growth attests to increased awareness of ADHD and improved access to diagnosis and treatment, concerns have been raised about poor adherence to treatment and diversion of medication. AIM: This current study explored the seasonal and/or temporal use of methylphenidate (MPH) in South Africa. SETTING: The study was conducted in South Africa. METHODS: A retrospective database analysis was conducted to examine unit sales of MPH over a 9-year period. The unit sales of MPH were compared to those of atomoxetine for the same period. RESULTS: Unit sales for MPH peaked in May and October, which coincided with the academic high-pressure periods for school learners and university students. This was most evident for MPH immediate release 10 mg. There was a noticeable decrease in unit sales for MPH during December. Atomoxetine demonstrated much less seasonal variation. CONCLUSION: The seasonal and/or temporal use of MPH fluctuates following the academic calendar. These changes are driven by both temporary interruptions of treatment, such as 'drug holidays', and the misuse and diversion of MPH for non-medical use. This holds significant implications for interventions to improve ADHD outcomes. It is crucial to balance accessibility to treatment with the prevention of misuse of MPH. CONTRIBUTION: Our findings highlight the need to reconsider current policies and regulations regarding the appropriate diagnosis and management of ADHD and the scripting, dispensing and monitoring of MPH.

Hook-and-line fishing is commonly used in South African inland fisheries; however, very little quantitative information on catch and effort exists, even though it is essential to advise management of the sector. To provide information towards management of South Africa's largest impoundment, the Gariep Dam, roving creel surveys were conducted to quantify annual fish harvest and to identify changes in fisher catch, effort and harvest data in comparison to historic data. The surveys were also conducted during the Covid-19 pandemic which presented an additional opportunity to describe fishery dynamics during the pandemic. Randomly stratified sampling was conducted from November 2020 to October 2021, in which catch and effort data of hook-and-line fishers were collected. Two fishery user groups were encountered: recreational and subsistence users were present, but the fishery was dominated by subsistence fishers. There was a more skewed dominance between these fisher groups than what was found during similar surveys in 2007/2008. Catch per unit effort was similar to previous estimates, at 0.51 kg-fisher-1h-1 (95% CI:0.47-0.54). There was, however, a significant reduction in fishing effort during the sampling period when compared to historic data, and estimated annual total harvest was only one third of what was previously reported. It was also noted that recreational fishers avoided fishing during the Covid-19 pandemic, whereas the subsistence fishers could not avoid fishing as it is their primary means of livelihood. The results of the study suggested that subsistence fisheries provide valuable livelihood support to communities, and serve as an example on what impacts a crisis such as a global pandemic may have on inland fisheries.

The global Covid-19 pandemic resulted in an economic downturn that influenced behavioural and participation patterns of fishing sectors around the world. Monitoring changes in fisheries is essential for understanding their human dimension and informing decision-making for development, conservation and management of fish resources. This study documented and described fishery patterns and participation during the Covid-19 pandemic through roving creel surveys. In addition, due to historic surveys of the recreational and subsistence fishery, it was possible to compare the current patterns to previous results and to show the potential Covid-19 related impacts. Subsistence fishing dominated the fishery, with 94% of 431 regular fishers utilising the resources for home consumption or sale. Compared to historic surveys, a marked decline in estimated recreational fishing was observed, but no significant change was identified in participation patterns of subsistence fishers. This downturn in recreational fishing affected the socio-demographic characteristics of the fishery, where changes in ethnic participation were noted; there was also an increase in the number of unemployed fishers during the pandemic. Utilisation of the fish resources was dominated by subsistence users and 97% of fish caught was for self-consumption or sale. This underlines the importance of fish for subsistence users, who rely on the resource for food or income and could not avoid fishing during the pandemic, as they had no alternative. This study highlights the importance of socio-demographic and participation data on fisheries, to provide scientific advice to policymakers on ideal responses to events such as a pandemic. This evidence of temporal changes in hook-and-line fisheries provides inland fishery authorities the opportunity to develop mitigation measures with greater resilience to cope with future global crises. Lastly, the study emphasises the importance of access to fisheries, especially during times of high regional economic and societal stress.

RESUMO: A quantificação e avaliação das mudanças espaço-temporais na qualidade do solo são importantes para compreender os mecanismos de degradação do solo e restaurar a produtividade da terra danificada. Contudo, os efeitos da subsidência da mineração de carvão nas características espaciais e temporais da qualidade do solo não são bem compreendidos. Foram investigados os teores de pH, matéria orgânica (MO), nitrogênio total (NT), nitrogênio nitrato (NN), nitrogênio amoniacal (AN), fósforo total (TP), fósforo disponível (FA), potássio disponível (AK), total potássio (TK), capacidade de troca catiônica (CEC), atividade de sacarase (SA), atividade de urease (UA), atividade de fosfatase (PA), atividade de catalase (CA) e atividade de desidrogenase (DA) na área subsidiada de mineração de carvão. Os resultados mostraram que os teores de TN, NN, AN, TP, AK, TK, SA, UA, PA, CA e DA apresentaram diferenças significativas (P < 0,05) entre as quatro estações. Comparada com a camada superior (0-20 cm), a camada inferior (20-40 cm) continha maiores teores de AN, NN, TN, TP e TK, mas menores teores de SA, UA, PA, CA e DA. Os NN, AP, TP, AK e UA foram identificados como indicadores-chave no conjunto mínimo de dados utilizando análise de componentes principais. As mudanças sazonais no índice de qualidade do solo (IQS) ocorreram na seguinte ordem: inverno (0,707), primavera (0,681), verão (0,616) e outono (0,563). O valor do IQF foi mais alto para a posição 3 do declive médio (0,508), seguido pela posição 4 do declive inferior (0,507), posição 1 do declive superior (0,446), posição 2 do declive superior (0,442) e posição 5 do declive inferior (0,437). Com base nestas mudanças espaço-temporais na qualidade do solo, foi sugerido que a aplicação de múltiplos tipos de uso da terra pode ser um método útil para a recuperação de terras e o interesse dos agricultores locais na área subsidiada de mineração de carvão. RESUMO espaçotemporais espaço danificada Contudo compreendidos pH MO, MO , (MO) NT, NT (NT) NN (NN) AN (AN) (TP) FA, FA (FA) (AK) TK (TK) CEC, CEC (CEC) SA (SA) (UA) PA (PA) (CA (DA TN P 0,05 005 0 05 estações 020 20 (0-2 cm, cm 2040 40 (20-4 AP indicadoreschave indicadores chave principais IQS (IQS ordem 0,707, 0707 0,707 707 (0,707) 0,681, 0681 0,681 681 (0,681) 0,616 0616 616 (0,616 0,563. 0563 0,563 . 563 (0,563) 0,508, 0508 0,508 508 (0,508) 0,507, 0507 0,507 507 (0,507) 0,446, 0446 0,446 446 (0,446) 0,442 0442 442 (0,442 0,437. 0437 0,437 437 (0,437) (MO (NT (NN (AN (TP (FA (AK (TK (CEC (SA (UA (PA 0,0 00 02 (0- 204 (20- 070 0,70 70 (0,707 068 0,68 68 (0,681 0,61 061 61 (0,61 056 0,56 56 (0,563 050 0,50 50 (0,508 (0,507 044 0,44 44 (0,446 (0,44 043 0,43 43 (0,437 0, (0 (20 07 0,7 7 (0,70 06 0,6 6 (0,68 (0,6 0,5 (0,56 (0,50 04 0,4 (0,4 (0,43 ( (2 (0,7 (0, (0,5

ABSTRACT: Quantification and evaluation of the spatiotemporal changes in soil quality is important to understand soil degradation mechanisms and restore the damaged land productivity. However, the effects of coal mining subsidence on the spatial and temporal characteristics of soil quality are not well understood. We investigated the contents of pH, organic matter (OM), total nitrogen (TN), nitrate nitrogen (NN), ammonia nitrogen (AN), total phosphorus (TP), available phosphorus (AP), available potassium (AK), total potassium (TK), cation exchange capacity (CEC), sucrase activity (SA), urease activity (UA), phosphatase activity (PA), catalase activity (CA) and dehydrogenase activity (DA) in the coal mining subsided area. The results showed that the contents of TN, NN, AN, TP, AK, TK, SA, UA, PA, CA and DA exhibited significant (P < 0.05) differences among the four seasons. Compared with the upper layer (0-20 cm), the lower layer (20-40 cm) contained higher contents of AN, NN, TN, TP and TK but lower contents of SA, UA, PA, CA and DA. The NN, AP, TP, AK and UA were identified as key indicators in the minimum dataset using principal component analysis. The seasonal changes of soil quality index (SQI) were in the following order: winter (0.707), spring (0.681), summer (0.616), and autumn (0.563). The spatial changes of SQI were highest for middle slope position 3 (0.508), followed by lower slope position 4 (0.507), top slope position 1 (0.446), upper slope position 2 (0.442), and bottom slope position 5 (0.437). Based on these spatiotemporal changes in soil quality, it was suggested that the application of multiple land use types may be a useful method for land reclamation and the interest of local farmers in the coal mining subsided area. ABSTRACT productivity However understood pH OM, OM , (OM) TN (TN) NN (NN) AN (AN) (TP) AP (AP) (AK) (TK) CEC, CEC (CEC) SA (SA) (UA) PA (PA) (CA (DA area P 0.05 005 0 05 seasons 020 20 (0-2 cm, cm 2040 40 (20-4 analysis (SQI order 0.707, 0707 0.707 707 (0.707) 0.681, 0681 0.681 681 (0.681) 0.616, 0616 0.616 616 (0.616) 0.563. 0563 0.563 . 563 (0.563) 0.508, 0508 0.508 508 (0.508) 0.507, 0507 0.507 507 (0.507) 0.446, 0446 0.446 446 (0.446) 0.442, 0442 0.442 442 (0.442) 0.437. 0437 0.437 437 (0.437) (OM (TN (NN (AN (TP (AP (AK (TK (CEC (SA (UA (PA 0.0 00 02 (0- 204 (20- 070 0.70 70 (0.707 068 0.68 68 (0.681 061 0.61 61 (0.616 056 0.56 56 (0.563 050 0.50 50 (0.508 (0.507 044 0.44 44 (0.446 (0.442 043 0.43 43 (0.437 0. (0 (20 07 0.7 7 (0.70 06 0.6 6 (0.68 (0.61 0.5 (0.56 (0.50 04 0.4 (0.44 (0.43 ( (2 (0.7 (0.6 (0.5 (0.4 (0.

Resumo O artigo trata da relação entre o tempo, no cuidado em saúde, e a sociedade onde o mesmo se dá. Cuidado como uma clínica comprometida com a integralidade do processo saúde-doença e com a autonomia dos sujeitos, e que ocorre no encontro intercessor. Trata de duas dimensões do tempo do cuidado: o cronos ou duração entre dois eventos, que guia as intervenções em saúde com prazos e metas para o controle dos resultados; e a temporalidade aiôn, dos acontecimentos. Examina-se tais dimensões na sociedade do desempenho ou do cansaço, e a possibilidade de se privilegiar nela as interrupções, o “não fazer” contemplativo e o entre temporal. A partir das proposições de um movimento social e de um neologismo verbal, propõe-se o acontecimento “ralentar o cuidado” (slow care), ou seja, construir estratégias para a gestão tanto dos vários tempos cronos que atravessam o cuidado, como abrir-se aos acontecimentos e às interferências que estes produzem, enquanto ressonâncias, sutilezas, pequenas mudanças (aiôn). Por fim, aponta-se a redução de danos como uma estratégia para se ralentar o cuidado.

Resumen Este artículo aborda la relación entre el tiempo, en el cuidado de la salud y la sociedad donde se desarrolla. El cuidado como clínica comprometida con la integralidad del proceso salud-enfermedad y la autonomía de los sujetos, y que se desarrolla en el encuentro intercesor. Se trata de dos dimensiones del tiempo de atención: el cronos o duración entre dos eventos, que orienta las intervenciones en salud con plazos y metas para controlar los resultados; y la temporalidad aiôn, de los acontecimientos. Estas dimensiones se examinan en la sociedad del desempeño o del cansancio, y la posibilidad de privilegiar las interrupciones, el “no hacer” contemplativo y los intermedios temporales. A partir de propuestas de un movimiento social y de un neologismo verbal, se propone el evento “cuidado lento”, es decir, construir estrategias para gestionar tanto los diversos cronos que abarcan el cuidado, como abrirse a los eventos y las interferencias que estos producen, como resonancias, sutilezas, pequeños cambios (aiôn). Finalmente, se destaca la reducción de daños como una estrategia para ralentizar la atención.

Abstract This article deals with the relationship between time, in health care, and the society where it takes place. Care as a clinic committed to the integrality of the health-disease process and to the autonomy of the subjects, which takes place in the intercessory encounters. It deals with two dimensions of care time: the chronos or duration between two events, which guides health interventions with deadlines and goals to control the results; and the aiôn temporality of events. Such dimensions are examined in the society of performance or weariness, and the possibility of privileging interruptions, the contemplative “not doing” and the temporal in-between. Based on the propositions of a social movement and a verbal neologism, “slow care” is proposed as the construction of strategies for managing either the various chronological times that cross the health care, and the opening of oneself to events and the interferences they produce, as resonances, subtleties, small changes (aiôn). Finally, harm reduction is pointed out as a strategy of slow care.

Resumen La investigación tuvo como objetivo comprender las experiencias alrededor de la sexualidad desde la teoría de los holones en un grupo de mujeres diagnosticadas con cáncer ginecológico en la ciudad de Pereira, Colombia. Se implementó un diseño cualitativo y fenomenológico, con la participación de seis mujeres entre 30 y 60 años, a quienes se aplicaron entrevistas semiestructuradas explorando los holones de reproductividad, género, erotismo y vinculación afectiva interpersonal. Las entrevistas fueron transcritas y analizadas de forma manual, mediante codificación abierta y axial para identificar categorías emergentes. En los discursos de las mujeres se evidenciaron elementos relacionados a los holones de la sexualidad. En el holón de reproductividad, se encontró una resignificación del rol reproductivo como madres; en el holón de género, se presentaron actitudes positivas hacia el cuerpo y amenazas a la identidad de género por causa de los cambios provocados por la enfermedad; en el holón de erotismo, las mujeres relataron experiencias sexuales marcadas por el dolor y el apoyo erótico de la pareja; y en el holón de vinculación afectiva interpersonal, se evidenciaron situaciones de estabilidad conyugal, separación temporal con la pareja y sostenimiento de vínculos abusivos durante el proceso de tratamiento oncológico. Estos hallazgos muestran una amplia reconfiguración integral de la sexualidad femenina en cada uno de los holones y realizan un aporte significativo a la comprensión de las subjetividades de las mujeres en el proceso de afrontar el cáncer ginecológico. Se recomienda realizar nuevas investigaciones con mayor cantidad de participantes y en otras regiones de Colombia.

Abstract The research aimed to understand the experiences around sexuality, from the holon theory, in a group of women diagnosed with gynecological cancer from Pereira, Colombia. A qualitative and phenomenological design was carried out, with the participation of six women between 30 and 60 years of age, to whom semi-structured interviews were applied, exploring the holons of reproductivity, gender, eroticism and interpersonal affective bonding. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed manually, using open and axial coding to identify emerging categories. In the women's discourses, elements related to the holons of sexuality were evident. In the holon of reproductivity, a resignification of the reproductive role as mothers was found; in the holon of gender, positive attitudes towards their bodies and threats to gender identity due to the changes caused by the disease were presented; in the holon of eroticism, women reported sexual experiences characterized by pain and erotic support from their partners; and in the holon of affective interpersonal bonding, they reported situations of marital stability, temporary separation from their partners and abusive ties during the process of cancer treatment. These findings show a comprehensive reconfiguration of female sexuality in each of the holons and make a significant contribution to the understanding of women's subjectivities in the process of coping with gynecological cancer. Further research with a larger number of participants and in other regions of Colombia is recommended.

Resumen Introducción: La comunicación acústica es esencial en las comunidades de anuros, especialmente para la reproducción. No obstante, el espacio acústico es limitado y las interferencias bioacústicas, como la competencia por apareamiento y recursos, afectan la eficacia de la comunicación. El bosque seco tropical en Colombia alberga especies de anuros que han sido resilientes a la gran reducción, fragmentación y transformación de este en las últimas décadas. La investigación escasa en este tema subraya la importancia de la caracterización acústica de los ensamblajes de anuros, para comprender la coexistencia de especies, monitorear cambios en la comunidad y evaluar el impacto tanto de especies invasoras como de la actividad humana en el ecosistema. Objetivo: Caracterizar acústicamente un ensamblaje de anuros del valle del río Cauca. Métodos: De septiembre a noviembre de 2022 (temporada lluviosa), se tomaron registros acústicos con sensores acústicos pasivos y activos de una comunidad de anuros del valle geográfico del río Cauca, en el flanco occidental de la cordillera central de Colombia. Se analizaron los cantos de anuncio en tres dimensiones: parámetros espectrales, temporales y patrones de actividad acústica. Resultados: Se registraron cinco especies de anuros, sus cantos presentaron un alto solapamiento en actividad, pero grandes diferencias estructurales, las especies tuvieron actividad nocturna a excepción de una de la familia Dendrobatidae. Conclusiones: Cada especie presenta un nicho acústico particular que evita el traslape en las señales acústicas, y estos resultados proporcionan una línea base para evaluar futuros cambios en el ensamblaje.

Abstract Introduction: Acoustic communication is essential in anuran communities, particularly for reproduction. However, the acoustic space is limited, and bioacoustic interferences, such as competition for mating and resources, impact the effectiveness of communication. The tropical dry forest in Colombia hosts resilient anuran species that have endured significant reduction, fragmentation, and transformation over the past decades. The scarce research on this topic underscores the importance of acoustically characterizing anuran assemblages to understand species coexistence, monitor changes in the community, and evaluate the impact of both invasive species and human activity on the ecosystem. Objective: To acoustically characterize an anuran assemblage in the Cauca River Valley. Methods: From September to November 2022 (rainy season), acoustic recordings were obtained using passive and active acoustic sensors from an anuran community in the geographical Cauca River Valley, on the western flank of the Central Cordillera in Colombia. Anuran advertisement calls were analyzed in three dimensions: spectral parameters, temporal patterns, and acoustic activity. Results: Five anuran species were recorded, exhibiting high overlap in activity but significant structural differences in their calls. The species were predominantly nocturnal, except for one from the dendrobatid family. Conclusions: Each species presents a distinct acoustic niche, avoiding overlap in acoustic signals. These findings establish a baseline for assessing future changes in the assemblage.

Resumen Introducción: Cada vez son más los estudios que incluyen la diversidad funcional para comprender los patrones de la biodiversidad. Sin embargo, en el departamento del Tolima, se ha investigado poco este aspecto en las comunidades de aves, lo que crea un vacío de conocimiento acerca de esta faceta de la diversidad biológica. Objetivo: Determinar cambios o patrones en la diversidad taxonómica y funcional de la avifauna del Centro Universitario Regional del Norte del Tolima (CURDN) durante un periodo de ocho años. Métodos: Los datos fueron organizados de manera que permitieran determinar cambios en la comunidad de aves a lo largo del tiempo y en diferentes épocas climáticas (alta y baja precipitación). Se emplearon diferentes índices de diversidad taxonómica y funcional (alfa y beta). Para evaluar el efecto de las temporadas climáticas y establecer diferencias entre los años, se utilizó el Escalamiento Multidimensional No Métrico (NMDS) y el Análisis de Similitud no paramétrico (ANOSIM). Resultados: Durante el periodo de estudio, se registraron 2 691 individuos. No se encontraron diferencias en la diversidad alfa, tanto taxonómica como funcional. Sin embargo, los resultados de estas dos facetas de la biodiversidad revelaron patrones opuestos que están estructurando la comunidad de aves. El análisis de partición de la diversidad taxonómica beta reveló un proceso de recambio de especies, mientras que la diversidad beta funcional determinó un anidamiento funcional. Conclusión: La diversidad funcional señaló la posibilidad de que las actividades antropogénicas llevadas a cabo en el CURDN actúan como filtros que estructuran la comunidad de aves. Estos hallazgos resaltan la importancia de considerar estas dos facetas de la biodiversidad para determinar cambios o patrones de las comunidades de aves durante un amplio periodo de estudio.

Abstract Introduction: More and more studies include functional diversity to understand biodiversity patterns. However, in Tolima department, little research has been conducted on this aspect in bird communities, creating a knowledge gap to this important facet of biodiversity. Objective: To determine changes or patterns in the taxonomic and functional diversity of bird communities at the Centro Universitario Regional del Norte (CURDN) for eight years. Methods: The data were organized to identify changes in the bird community over time and during different climatic periods (high and low precipitation). Several indices of taxonomic and functional diversity (alpha and beta) were used. Non-Metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) and Non-Parametric Analysis of Similarity (ANOSIM) were applied to evaluate the impact of climatic periods and temporal variation. Results: During the sampling, 2 691 individuals were recorded. We found that there was no difference in the taxonomic and functional alpha diversity. However, the results of these two facets of biodiversity revealed opposing patterns that are structuring bird communities. The partitioning analysis of taxonomic beta diversity revealed a process of species turnover, while functional beta diversity revealed functional nestedness. Conclusions: Functional diversity suggested that anthropogenic activities in the CURDN act as filters that structure bird communities. These findings highlight the importance of considering these two facets of biodiversity to determine changes or patterns in bird communities over a long period.

Resumen Introducción: Las bahías bioluminiscentes en Puerto Rico desempeñan un papel socioeconómico importante y disminuciones del dinoflagelado bioluminiscente dominante Pyrodinium bahamense son preocupantes. Los estudios muestran proliferaciones erráticas débilmente correlacionadas con factores ambientales locales. Objetivos: Cuantificar cambios en la densidad de dinoflagelados a largo plazo en la Laguna Grande de Fajardo (LGF), comprender cómo el ambiente marino modula esos cambios y determinar los impactos de eventos climáticos extremos en la densidad de dinoflagelados. Métodos: Se recolectaron muestras bimestrales del 2016-2021 en tres sitios de la LGF. La densidad se estimó mediante el conteo de células de Sedgewick Rafter. Condiciones ambientales se obtuvieron de la estación Río Fajardo 5007100 y de la boya NOAA 41056. El clima marino y los indicadores bióticos se obtuvieron por mediciones de teledetección. Se utilizaron correlaciones Kruskal Wallis, Spearman y las correlaciones cruzadas en los registros de campo corto y proxy largos para evaluar los controles ambientales en las proliferaciones de dinoflagelados LGF. Resultados: En seis años de monitoreo se encontraron densidades bajas entre el 2016-2017 y proliferaciones frecuentes e intensas en 2018-2021 marcadas por huracanes. Se registraron valores bajos a finales del invierno, en contraste con valores más altos a finales del verano (agosto-noviembre). Vientos ligeros y la respuesta de capas mixtas al calentamiento estacional en forma de mareas altas y baja salinidad, mantienen la reproducción de los dinoflagelados. Conclusiones: Los dinoflagelados bioluminiscentes son vitales para el turismo costero y requieren manejo de los recursos. En general: 1) los recuentos de dinoflagelados fluctúan ampliamente, 2) los dinoflagelados fluorescentes son sensibles a las condiciones ambientales debido a su estacionalidad limitada y estrecho rango fisiológico, 3) los huracanes juegan un rol de rastrillar y refrescar la laguna costera para su posterior reproducción, y 4) fluctuaciones intra-estacionales se relacionan con las condiciones termodinámicas aire-mar, el balance de salinidad y el nivel del mar.

Abstract Introduction: Bio bays in Puerto Rico play an important socio-economic role and declines in dominant bioluminescent dinoflagellate Pyrodinium bahamense are concerning. Studies show erratic blooms with is weak correlation to in situ environmental factors. Our study examines shorter field and longer proxy records on dinoflagellate density at Laguna Grande de Fajardo (LGF). Objectives: To quantify temporal changes in dinoflagellate density in a long-term monitoring study, understand how the marine environment modulates those changes, and determine the wider impacts of a fluctuating climate and extreme events on proxies for dinoflagellate density. Methods: Bimonthly samples were collected from 2016 to 2021 at three sampling sites in LGF. Dinoflagellates density was estimated by Sedgewick Rafter counting cells. Environmental conditions were obtained from Rio Fajardo 5007100 station and NOAA buoy 41056. Marine climate and biotic proxies were obtained from remote sensing measurements. Kruskal Wallis, Spearman correlations and cross-correlations in the shorter field and longer proxy records were used to evaluate environmental controls on LGF dinoflagellate blooms. Results: Six years of field monitoring densities found a low period in 2016-2017, frequent and intense blooms in 2018-2021 punctuated by hurricanes. Generally low values were recorded in late winter in contrast with higher values in late summer (Aug-Nov). Light winds and mixed layer response to seasonal warming in the form of high tides and low salinity, were found to sustain dinoflagellate reproduction. Conclusions: Bioluminescent dinoflagellates are vital to coastal tourism and require resource management. LGF results show that: 1) dinoflagellate counts fluctuate widely, 2) fluorescing dinoflagellates are sensitive to environmental conditions because of limited seasonality and narrow physiological range, 3) hurricanes play a role by ‘raking and refreshing’ the coastal lagoon for subsequent biotic reproduction, and 4) intra-seasonal fluctuations of density and proxies relate to air-sea thermodynamic conditions, the salinity budget and sea level.

Resumen Introducción: La Familia Chironomidae es reconocida por su gran abundancia y diversidad en los ecosistemas de agua dulce alrededor del mundo. Sin embargo, el conocimiento taxonómico de esta familia es limitado, particularmente en Colombia. Objetivos: Estimar la abundancia y diversidad a nivel de género de la Familia Chironomidae y su dinámica espacio-temporal en tres quebradas, afluentes del Río Combeima en el centro de Colombia. Métodos: Este estudio describe la evaluación taxonómica y ecológica de las larvas de quironómidos presentes en tres quebradas altoandinas (Tolima, Colombia), denominadas Las Perlas (PE), La Plata (PL) y Cay (CA). Entre 2015-2016 se realizaron seis campañas de muestreo en periodos climáticos contrastantes, en nueve puntos de muestreo (tres por quebrada: parte alta, media, y baja). Las recolectas se realizaron con red Surber en diferentes sustratos. Resultados: Se registraron 15 594 larvas, correspondientes a tres subfamilias y 20 géneros. La más abundante fue Orthocladiinae con 13 698 larvas (87.84 %), dominada por Cricotopus spp. (66.19 %), seguida de Chironominae con 1 367 individuos (8.77 %) y Polypedilum spp. (5.18 %), y Tanypodinae con 530 organismos (3.40 %) y Pentaneura spp. (2.91 %). La mayor abundancia se encontró en PL3 (parte baja; 27.84 %), seguido de CA2 (parte media; 20.47 %) y PE1 (parte alta; 1.93 %). Las tres quebradas presentaron la mayor abundancia durante febrero 2016 (25.93 %; transición a la época de lluvias), seguido de noviembre 2015 (20.59 %; precipitaciones bajas) y octubre 2015 (3.94 %; precipitaciones altas). Conclusiones: Los resultados obtenidos amplían las listas taxonómicas de quironómidos en zonas altoandinas (1 419-2 586 m), y la caracterización detallada de los 20 géneros registrados en las quebradas seleccionadas, que constituyen aportes relevantes para el reconocimiento de estos dípteros y su rol ecológico en los sistemas acuáticos de los Andes colombianos.

Abstract Introduction: The Family Chironomidae is recognized for its great abundance and diversity in freshwater ecosystems around the world. However, taxonomic knowledge of this family is limited, particularly in Colombia. Objectives: To estimate the abundance and diversity at the genus level and its spatiotemporal dynamics in three streams, tributaries of the Combeima River in central Colombia. Methods: This study describes the taxonomic and ecological evaluation of chironomid larvae present in three high Andean streams (Tolima, Colombia), called Las Perlas (PE), La Plata (PL) and Cay (CA). Between 2015-2016, six sampling campaigns were conducted in contrasting climatic periods, at nine sampling points (three per stream: upper, middle, and lower). The collections were made with Surber net on different substrates. Results: 15 594 larvae were recorded, corresponding to three subfamilies and 20 genera. The most abundant subfamily was Orthocladiinae with 13 698 larvae (87.84 %), dominated by Cricotopus spp. (66.19 %), followed by Chironominae with 1 367 individuals (8.77 %) and Polypedilum spp. (5.18 %), and Tanypodinae with 530 organisms (3.40 %) and Pentaneura spp. (2.91 %). The highest abundance was found in PL3 (lower part; 27.84 %), followed by CA2 (middle part; 20.47 %) and PE1 (upper part; 1.93 %). The three streams presented the highest abundance during February 2016 (25.93 %; transition to the rainy season), followed by November 2015 (20.59 %; low rainfall) and October 2015 (3.94 %; high rainfall). Conclusions: The results obtained expands the taxonomic lists of chironomids in high Andean areas (1 419-2 586 m), and the detailed characterization of the 20 genera recorded in the selected streams, which constitute relevant contributions for the recognition of these dipterans and their ecological role in the aquatic systems of the Colombian Andes.

SUMMARY: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a complex structure relying on bones, muscles, ligaments, and an articular disc for smooth functioning. Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) development can be attributed to changes in TMJ anatomy. Several factors, including age, gender, chewing side preference, dentition status, cephalometric relationship, and orthodontic treatment or orthognathic surgery, contributed to the structural and positional changes of the TMJ components. This review article summarizes the association between TMDs and the changes in morphology and position of the mandibular condyle, articular eminence, and glenoid fossa from various factors. Extensive electronic search was performed in PubMed and Scopus databases with appropriate search filters. After the deduplication process and screening of titles, abstracts, and full texts, sixty studies underwent a thorough full-text reading process and were included in this review. Patients with TMDs symptoms tend to have flattened and angled condylar shapes and frequently exhibit a posteriorly positioned condylar head. The steeper inclination of the articular eminence appears to be a notable characteristic of certain TMDs. However, given the multifactorial nature of TMDs, determining a single factor as a primary cause can be challenging. Therefore, recognizing all potential risk factors beyond anatomy-related factors is crucial for accurate diagnosis and successful management of TMDs.

RESUMEN: La articulación temporomandibular (ATM) es una estructura compleja que depende de huesos, músculos, ligamentos y un disco articular para su adecuado funcionamiento. El desarrollo de los trastornos temporomandibulares (TTM) se puede atribuir a cambios en la anatomía de la ATM. Varios factores, entre ellos la edad, el sexo, la preferencia del lado de masticación, el estado de la dentición, la relación cefalométrica y el tratamiento de ortodoncia o la cirugía ortognática, contribuyen a los cambios estructurales y posicionales de los componentes de la ATM. Este artículo de revisión resume la asociación entre los TTM y los cambios en la morfología y la posición del cóndilo mandibular, la eminencia articular y la fosa glenoidea debido a varios factores. Se realizó una búsqueda electrónica exhaustiva en las bases de datos PubMed y Scopus con los filtros de búsqueda apropiados. Después del proceso de deduplicación y la selección de títulos, resúmenes y textos completos, sesenta estudios se sometieron a un proceso de lectura de texto completo exhaustivo y se incluyeron en esta revisión. Los pacientes con síntomas de TTM tienden a tener formas condilares aplanadas y anguladas y con frecuencia presentan una cabeza condilar posicionada posteriormente. La inclinación más pronunciada de la eminencia articular parece ser una característica notable de ciertos TTM. Sin embargo, dada la naturaleza multifactorial de los TTM, determinar un solo factor como causa primaria puede ser un desafío. Por lo tanto, reconocer todos los factores de riesgo potenciales más allá de los factores relacionados con la anatomía es fundamental para el diagnóstico preciso y el manejo exitoso de los TTM.

Resumo: Objetivos: Analisar a configuração, distribuição e equidade de recursos humanos de enfermagem na Província de Sichuan, China, fornecendo uma referência para o futuro desenvolvimento de cuidados de enfermagem na região. Materiais e Métodos: Foi realizada uma análise descritiva da situação atual de configuração de recursos humanos de enfermagem na Província de Sichuan em 2010, 2015 e 2020. Curva Lorenz, coeficiente Gini, índice de densidade de recursos de saúde e mapas de densidade da distribuição foram utilizados para avaliar as mudanças e equidade na configuração de recursos humanos de enfermagem. Resultados: A proporção enfermeiro-população foi 1,17, 2,09 e 3,42 em 2010, 2015 e 2020, respectivamente, com a equipe de enfermagem representando 24%, 49% e 35% do pessoal técnico de cuidados à saúde. A proporção enfermeiromédico foi 1:0,72, 1:1,05 e 1:1,22 nos três anos, respectivamente. Os coeficientes de alocação de recursos de enfermagem para a população permanente e área foram 0,24, 0,20 e 0,12 e 0,74, 0,72 e 0,72, respectivamente. O índice de densidade de recursos de enfermagem foi 0,50, 0,91 e 1,42, respectivamente. Conclusão: O estudo mostra que a equidade de recursos de enfermagem com base na população aumentou enquanto a equidade com base na região ainda apresentava disparidade, com um contínuo aumento na densidade de recursos humanos de enfermagem ao longo dos anos de 2010 a 2020. Todavia, há necessidade de continuar aumentando o número de enfermeiros e melhorar a acessibilidade a cuidados de enfermagem.

Abstract: This research aims to analyze the configuration, distribution, and equity of nursing human resources in Sichuan Province, China, providing a reference for the future development of nursing care in the region. A descriptive analysis was conducted to describe the configuration of nursing human resources in 2010, 2015, and 2020. The Lorenz curve, Gini coefficient, health resource density index, and distribution density maps were used as resources and methodology to evaluate the changes and equity in the configuration of nursing human resources. The result of this research determined that the nurse-to-population ratio was 1.17, 2.09, and 3.42 in 2010, 2015, and 2020, and nursing staff accounted for 24%, 49%, and 35% of technical health personnel. The nurse-to-physician ratio was 1:0.72, 1:1.05, and 1:1.22 in the three years. The Gini coefficients of nursing resource allocation for permanent population and area were 0.24, 0.20, and 0.12 and 0.74, 0.72, and 0.72, respectively. The nursing resource density index was 0.50, 0.91, and 1.42, respectively. In conclusion, the study shows that the equity of nursing resources based on population increased, while the equity based on region still showed disparity, with a sustained increase in nursing human resource density from 2010 to 2020. However, it is necessary to continue increasing the number of nurses and improving the geographical accessibility of nursing care.

Resumen: Esta investigación tiene como objetivo analizar la configuración, distribución y equidad de los recursos humanos de enfermería en la provincia de Sichuan, China, proporcionando una referencia para el desarrollo futuro de la atención de enfermería en la región. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo para detallar la configuración de los recursos humanos de enfermería durante 2010, 2015 y 2020. Para evaluar los cambios y la equidad en la configuración de los recursos humanos de enfermería se utilizó como recurso metodológico la curva de Lorenz, el coeficiente de Gini, el índice de densidad de recursos de salud y los mapas de densidad de distribución. El resultado de esta investigación determinó que la relación enfermera-población fue de 1,17, 2,09 y 3,42 en 2010, 2015 y 2020, y el personal de enfermería representó el 24%, 49% y 35% del personal técnico de salud. La relación enfermera-médico fue de 1:0,72, 1:1,05 y 1:1,22 en los tres años. Los coeficientes de Gini de asignación de recursos de enfermería para población permanente y área fueron 0,24, 0,20 y 0,12 y 0,74, 0,72 y 0,72, respectivamente. El índice de densidad de recursos de enfermería fue 0,50, 0,91 y 1,42, respectivamente. En conclusión, el estudio muestra que la equidad de los recursos de enfermería en función de la población aumentó, mientras que la equidad en función de la región mostró disparidad, con un aumento sostenido en la densidad de recursos humanos de enfermería desde 2010 a 2020. Sin embargo, es necesario seguir aumentando el número de enfermeras y mejorando la accesibilidad geográfica de la atención de enfermería.

Abstract Agriculture is increasingly putting pressure on biodiversity resources in the fragile environment of the Semi-Arid Argentine Pampas, specifically in the Pampa Medanosa region. This region, affected by wind erosion and deforestation, includes the Caldén Biogeographic Corridor. The Caldén (Neltuma caldenia B.), an endemic and threatened tree species, gives the corridor its name. Recent studies have mentioned the reactivation of wind erosion processes in response to non-sustainable soil management and the advance of the agricultural frontier. Thus, land cover analysis could help monitor land use change. The aim of this research was to analyze the temporal and spatial evolution of land use change in the Pampa Medanosa Region, from 2006/07 to 2018/19, through observation of land cover. For the analysis a supervised classification by mean of Random Forest (RF) algorithm was conducted. It achieves class predictions through the majority voting of decision tree groups, and it allows the combination of spectral and topographic information. The results showed an increase in agricultural surface area, mainly represented by soybeans and corn, over the cattle grazing areas. The agricultural expansion in the study area occurred fundamentally since the 2007/08 cropping season. Random Forest, in conjunction with R and Landsat satellite images, has shown great potential as a diagnostic tool for monitoring changes in land cover, ecosystem modification, and soil degradation problems and also as a tool for applying public policies and land planning.

Resumen En el frágil entorno de las Pampas Semiáridas Argentinas, específicamente en la región de Pampa Medanosa, la agricultura está ejerciendo cada vez más presión sobre el recurso suelo y la biodiversidad. Esta región, afectada por la erosión eólica y la deforestación, incluye el Corredor Biogeográfico de Caldén. El Caldén (Neltuma caldenia B.), es una especie arbórea endémica y amenazada, que da nombre al corredor. Estudios recientes han mencionado la reactivación de procesos de erosión eólica como respuesta al manejo no sustentable del suelo y al avance de la frontera agrícola. Por lo tanto, el análisis de la cobertura del suelo podría ser una herramienta útil para monitorear el cambio de uso del suelo. El objetivo de esta investigación fue analizar la evolución temporal y espacial del cambio de uso del suelo en la Región Pampa Medanosa, del 2006/07 al 2018/19. Para el análisis, se realizó una clasificación supervisada mediante el algoritmo Random Forest (RF) combinando información espectral y topográfica. Los resultados mostraron un aumento de la superficie agrícola, representada por soja y maíz principalmente, sobre las áreas de pastoreo ganadero. La expansión agrícola en el área de estudio se dio fundamentalmente a partir de la campaña agrícola 2007/08. Random Forest en conjunto con R e imágenes satelitales Landsat han mostrado un gran potencial como herramienta de diagnóstico para monitorear cambios en la cobertura del suelo, modificación de ecosistemas y problemas de degradación y también como herramienta para el seguimiento de políticas públicas y de ordenamiento territorial.

Abstract Introduction In clinical practice, patients with the same degree and configuration of hearing loss, or even with normal audiometric thresholds, present substantially different performances in terms of speech perception. This probably happens because other factors, in addition to auditory sensitivity, interfere with speech perception. Thus, studies are needed to investigate the performance of listeners in unfavorable listening conditions to identify the processes that interfere in the speech perception of these subjects. Objective To verify the influence of age, temporal processing, and working memory on speech recognition in noise. Methods Thirty-eight adult and elderly individuals with normal hearing thresholds participated in the study. Participants were divided into two groups: The adult group (G1), composed of 10 individuals aged 21 to 33 years, and the elderly group (G2), with 28 participants aged 60 to 81 years. They underwent audiological assessment with the Portuguese Sentence List Test, Gaps-in-Noise test, Digit Span Memory test, Running Span Task, Corsi Block-Tapping test, and Visual Pattern test. Results The Running Span Task score proved to be a statistically significant predictor of the listening-in-noise variable. This result showed that the difference in performance between groups G1 and G2 in relation to listening in noise is due not only to aging, but also to changes in working memory. Conclusion The study showed that working memory is a predictor of listening performance in noise in individuals with normal hearing, and that this task can provide important information for investigation in individuals who have difficulty hearing in unfavorable environments. practice loss factors sensitivity Thus subjects age processing Thirtyeight Thirty eight G1, G , (G1) 1 2 3 years G2, (G2) 6 8 Test GapsinNoise Gaps Noise test BlockTapping Block Tapping listeninginnoise variable aging environments (G1 (G2 (G

We present a series of 12 OSL/IRSL dates that revise and complete the chronology of the important Middle (MSA) and Later Stone Age (LSA) site Umbeli Belli in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. These dates shift the previous radiometric ages thousands of years older than earlier measurements and play a key role in revising the cultural stratigraphy of KwaZulu-Natal. We also discuss how these dates bring the chrono- and cultural stratigraphy of southern Africa into clearer focus. The Robberg sequence of Umbeli Belli is now firmly dated to 21 ± 2 ka, whereas the preceding Early LSA assemblage dates to ~32 ka, representing one of the earliest dates for this cultural expression in the broader region. The final MSA assemblages from Layer 7 to 9 now date to between 35 ka and 40 ka, overlapping more tightly with comparable assemblages from Sibhudu, Umhlatuzana and other sites. Layer 10, which was previously also assigned to the final MSA, now dates to ~47-54 ka, placing the assemblage within the temporal range of the Late MSA. The new dates provide a good explanation for the clear differences in material culture between Layer 10 and the younger layers. We also present two new ages for the deeper horizons 11b and 12 at Umbeli Belli, dating to 76 ± 9 ka and 80 ± 9 ka, respectively. SIGNIFICANCE: • Revised and new age estimates are given for the Middle and Later Stone Age sequence of Umbeli Belli. • These age changes allow new comparisons with nearby prehistoric sites. • They change our view of the regional variability of technologies and cultures between ca. 80 and 20 ka on the east coast of South Africa.