ABSTRACT Objectives: This study, conducted by the Bladder Cancer in Latin America (BLATAM) group, aims to analyze epidemiological and therapeutic data on non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) in Latin American patients. It seeks to identify factors contributing to suboptimal responses to Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) therapy and assess areas for improvement in regional treatment practices. Materials and Methods: A multicenter retrospective study was carried out in collaboration with reference Urology Departments across Latin America. Data were collected using an electronic Case Report Form (CRF) from 2011 to 2021, capturing demographics, clinical presentation, treatment details, and follow-up of NMIBC patients treated with BCG. Statistical analyses included Kaplan-Meier survival analysis for relapse-free survival (RFS). Results: Data from 292 patients across five countries were analyzed, with a mean age of 70.3 years and a male prevalence of 74%. Smoking history was reported in 70.6% of patients. The mean time to the first BCG dose was 2.4 months post-TURBT, with 26.7% of patients exceeding the recommended 60-day window for induction initiation. While 84% of patients completed BCG induction, only 45.9% followed the recommended Lamm maintenance schedule. Delays in starting maintenance cycles were observed, with a median delay of over 36 days for the first cycle and 65 days for the second cycle. RFS at 1 year and 5 years for high-risk patients was 87.3% and 53.3%, respectively. Conclusions: This study highlights critical deviations from recommended NMIBC management protocols in Latin America, including delayed BCG initiation and inconsistencies in maintenance therapy. These findings emphasize the need for standardized treatment protocols and improved adherence to international guidelines, which could enhance NMIBC patient outcomes in the region. Collaborative efforts are essential to develop region-specific strategies, improve data collection, and ultimately provide better care for bladder cancer patients in Latin America.

The species Oryza sativa (rice) and Musa cavendishii (banana) are sources of cellulose-rich waste biomass in the Amazon region, Tocantins State. This research investigates the nanoscale production of cellulose through the interactions between three choline amino acid ionic liquids Ch[AA]IL and the respective fibers by pretreatment. To this end, the synthesis of three ILs was carried out: choline arginate Ch[Arg], choline glycinate Ch[Gly] and choline lysinate Ch[Lys], characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The samples resulting from the pretreatment were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). It was possible to infer from the SEM micrographs that Ch[Arg] caused greater fiber breakage than the other ILs. The TEM analyses identified fibers up to 16 nm in diameter. Positive effects were observed in the diffractograms, although no crystallinity was obtained in the pretreated samples. Thermogravimetry curves showed that the fibers treated with Ch[Arg] showed higher thermal stability.

Abstract Essential oils (EO) have the potential to control ectoparasites, being an alternative to the use of synthetic products. The essential oils of Baccharis trimera and Mimosa verrucosa were evaluated for lethality, residual efficacy, and repellence against the ectoparasite Ctenocephalides felis felis Bouché, and toxicity was using Saccharomyces cerevisiae eukaryote model. EOs were obtained by steam distillation and characterized by GC/FID/MS. Mortality at different immature stages and among adult fleas was measured through in vitro filter paper tests at different concentrations of EOs, as well as residual effect and repellent activity. The major compounds for B. trimera were carquejyl acetate (33.0%), carquejol (7.07%), and palustrol (6.99%), and for M. verrucosa, β-pinene (14.2%), (E)-caryophyllene (13.8%), and α-pinene (10.6%). Low toxicity was recorded for B. trimera and M. verrucosa EOs at 200 µg.mL-1. EOs recorded 100% efficacy against adult fleas at 800 µg.cm-2 (LC50 = 369.22 µg.cm-2) and residual effect for three days, B. trimera EO promoted 46.7% of mortality on the 3rd day of the exposition, and M. verrucosa EO 20% of mortality on the 3rd day of the exposition. The repellent activity was presented in the concentration of 40000 µg.mL-1 for B. trimera EO (80% at 12h) and M. verrucosa EO (75% at 6h). The results show great potential for developing alternative products from the essentials of B. trimera and M. verrucosa in control against C. felis felis, which show low toxicity and high activity.

Resumo A instabilidade econômica no Peru foi influenciada pelo período pós-pandemia, pela guerra entre Rússia e Ucrânia, bem como pelo confronto geopolítico entre Estados Unidos e China, que causou aumento nos preços dos fertilizantes. Foi investigado o motivo da influência da nutrição com chorume à base de composto de resíduos vegetais (leachate based on compost from vegeatable waste - LBCVW) nas características físicas, químicas e biológicas do rabanete. O objetivo foi analisar a influência da nutrição foliar com LBCVW nas características físicas, químicas e biológicas do rabanete. Este estudo teve como base uma pesquisa aplicada com abordagem experimental, por isso foi utilizado o modelo estatístico de Delineamento em Blocos Completamente Casualizados, que foi composto por três blocos e cinco tratamentos: T1 com 0, T2 com 2, T3 com 3, T4 com 4 e T5 com 5 litros de LBCVW/200 litros de água. A aplicação foi realizada aos 14 e 21 dias após a semeadura. Uma vez obtidos os dados de comprimento total da planta, peso da planta, produtividade comercial e diâmetro equatorial, esses dados foram processados por meio da análise de variância e teste de Duncan. Foram determinadas a concentração de nutrientes (nitrogênio, potássio, fósforo, cálcio, magnésio, enxofre, molibdênio, ferro, manganês, cobre, zinco, boro, cloretos e sódio), bem como a porcentagem de amido, a densidade estomática em folhas e a lucratividade. Os resultados determinaram que T5 se destacou em comprimento total de planta com 40,26 cm, peso de planta com 126,32 g, produtividade comercial com 39,445 t/ha e diâmetro equatorial com 4,72 cm. Em densidade estomática com 586 estômatos/mm2 e lucratividade com 338,6%, e T2 em concentração de nutrientes como magnésio, molibdênio, ferro, manganês, boro e porcentagem de amido com 4,55%. Conclui-se que T5 se destacou pela concentração de fósforo e cálcio, maior densidade estomática e menor porcentagem de amido nas folhas. Essas características influenciaram na otimização de reações bioquímicas como transpiração, fotossíntese, formação e translocação de carboidratos em direção à reserva (bulbo), entre outras. Como resultado, evidenciou-se maior resistência ao estresse nutricional e ambiental, alcançando maior produtividade de 39,445 t/ha, o que representa um aumento de 24,54% em relação ao tratamento T1.

Abstract The economic instability in Peru was influenced by the post-pandemic period, the war between Russia and Ukraine, and the geopolitical confrontation between the United States and China, which caused an increase in fertilizer prices. The reason why the influence of nutrition with leachate based on compost from vegetable waste (LBCVW) on the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of radish was investigated. The objective was to analyze the influence of foliar nutrition with LBCVW on the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the radish. It was based on applied research with an experimental approach, so the Completely Randomized Block Design statistical model was used, which consisted of 3 blocks and 5 treatments: T1 with 0, T2 with 2, T3 with 3, T4 with 4, and T5 with 5 liters of LBCVW/200 liters of water, and the application was made 14 and 21 days after sowing. Once the data on total plant length, plant weight, commercial yield, and equatorial diameter were obtained, they were processed using analysis of variance and Duncan's test. The concentration of nutrients (nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, molybdenum, iron, manganese, copper, zinc, boron, chlorides, and sodium), the starch percentage, the stomatal density in leaves, and the profitability were determined. The results determined that T5 stood out in total plant length with 40.26 cm, plant weight with 126.32 g, commercial yield with 39.445 t/ha, and equatorial diameter with 4.72 cm. In stomatal density with 586 stomata/mm2 and profitability with 338.6%, and T2 in nutrient concentration such as magnesium, molybdenum, iron, manganese, boron, and starch percentage with 4.55%. It concludes that T5 stood out for its concentration of phosphorus and calcium, higher stomatal density, and lower starch percentage in the leaves. These characteristics influenced the optimization of biochemical reactions such as transpiration, photosynthesis, and the formation and translocation of carbohydrates towards the reserve (bulb), among others. As a result, greater resistance to nutritional and environmental stress was evidenced, achieving a higher yield of 39.445 t/ha, which represents a 24.54% increase compared to T1.

Resumo As plantas produzem pectina como um biopolímero versátil, proveniente de suas paredes celulares, onde demonstra importância em alimentos, além de produtos farmacêuticos e cosméticos, devido à sua capacidade de formação de gel e às suas características espessantes e estabilizantes. As técnicas de extração de pectina tradicionalmente demandam altas quantidades de energia, além de solventes perigosos, necessitando de longos períodos de processamento. O desenvolvimento de tecnologias emergentes de extração verde (ET) proporciona metodologias de extração sustentáveis e eficientes. Esta análise conduz uma avaliação sistemática de diferentes ETs para extração de pectina, examinando a EAU juntamente com a MAE, e inclui a avaliação de métodos de extração com CO2 supercrítico, HPP e PEF. Esses métodos apresentam vantagens como maior desempenho de extração com menor consumo de energia, bem como melhores propriedades reológicas da pectina, que aumentam tanto a força do gel quanto a viscosidade. As ETs mantêm ou ampliam efetivamente as propriedades funcionais da pectina, o que aumenta seu potencial para usos de alta qualidade em alimentos, suplementos e cosméticos. Essas tecnologias proporcionam um método ambientalmente benéfico através da sua reduzida dependência de solventes e da redução da criação de resíduos. A investigação, juntamente com o progresso tecnológico, espera resolver os obstáculos existentes associados aos custos dos equipamentos e à escalabilidade, porque esses obstáculos impedem atualmente a adoção generalizada desses métodos, mas as soluções permitirão a utilização à escala industrial. Existe uma oportunidade através de tecnologias de extração verde para criar um futuro sustentável para a produção industrial de pectina.

Abstract Plants produce pectin as a versatile biopolymer stemming from their cell walls where it shows importance in food together with pharmaceuticals and cosmetics because of its gel-forming ability and thickening and stabilizing traits. The extraction techniques for pectin traditionally demand high amounts of power alongside hazardous solvents while needing extended processing durations. The development of emerging green extraction technologies (ET) provides sustainable and efficient extraction methodologies. This analysis conducts a systematic assessment of different ETs for pectin extraction by examining UAE alongside MAE and includes evaluation of supercritical CO2, HPP, and PEF extraction methods. These methods present advantages such as higher extraction performance with lowered energy usage as well as better pectin rheological properties that enhance both gel strength and viscosity. ETs effectively maintain or magnify functional properties in pectin which increases its potential for high-end uses in food items and supplements and cosmetics. These technologies provide an environmentally beneficial method through their reduced reliance on solvents and reduced creation of waste products. Research alongside technological progress hopes to solve existing hurdles associated with equipment costs and scalability because these hurdles currently prevent widespread adoption of these methods, but the solutions will enable industrial-scale use. There exists an opportunity through green extraction technologies to create a sustainable future for industrial pectin production.

Resumo Atualmente, uma tendência importante na atividade agrícola é o desenvolvimento da agricultura biológica. Neste contexto, é avaliada a aplicação de um fertilizante derivado de um efluente da indústria de oleaginosas, à beterraba (Beta vulgaris L.), com o objetivo de melhorar as características agronômicas da beterraba e complementar a deficiência química do solo em MO e N. O efluente modificado é obtido a partir da água de lavagem do óleo de peixe, que contém nutrientes, destacando-se K, P e N. A experiência foi conduzida num campo de cultivo, utilizando o desenho de blocos completamente aleatórios, com cinco tratamentos: T1, T2, T3, T4 e T5 com doses de fertilizantes de 0, 2, 3, 4 e 5 L/ha, respectivamente, aplicados na beterraba. Os resultados mostram um efluente modificado com propriedades fertilizantes, nomeadamente pela sua elevada concentração de N (25,76 g/L) e pelo seu teor em K e P. Alterando o agente neutralizante e outros químicos complementares destinados a conferir propriedades fertilizantes ao efluente produzido no processo de refinação do petróleo, obteve-se um fertilizante que foi aplicado à cultura da beterraba em cinco tratamentos, destacando-se o quarto tratamento (T4) com uma produtividade de 23,97 t/ha.

Abstract Currently, an important trend in the agricultural activity is the development of organic agriculture. In this context, the application of a fertilizer derived from an effluent of the oilseed industry, to beet (Beta vulgaris L.), is evaluated, with the objective of improving the agronomic characteristics of beet and complementing the chemical deficiency of the soil in OM and N. The modified effluent is obtained from fish oil wash water, which contains nutrients, highlighting K, P and N. The experiment was conducted in a crop field, using completely randomized block design, with five treatments: T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 with fertilizer doses of 0, 2, 3, 3, 4, 5 L/ha, respectively, applied to the beterraga. The results show a modified effluent with fertilizer properties, particularly for its high concentration of N (25.76 g/L) and its content in K and P. By changing the neutralizing agent and other complementary chemicals intended to confer fertilizer properties to the effluent produced in the oil refining process, a fertilizer was obtained that was applied to the beet crop in five treatments, highlighting the fourth treatment T4 with a yield of 23.97 t/ha.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of high-intensity childhood games on cardiac autonomic regulation, obesity biomarkers, and body composition in overweight or obese children compared to moderate-intensity games. A single-blind, randomized controlled study was conducted including children aged 6 to 9 years with overweight or obesity. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: 33 in the moderate-intensity interval game group (MIIG) and 29 in the high-intensity interval game group (HIIG). The intervention lasted 16 weeks, with measurements conducted under double blinding. The study followed institutional ethical standards and was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (CT NCT05294601). A total of 74 children were recruited, with 7 excluded after sports medicine assessment, leaving 67 children randomized. Five participants dropped out during the study. HRV analysis revealed significant differences in frequency dominance in the HIIG group. High-frequency power, linked to parasympathetic dominance, increased from 59.3 to 65.8 nu (P=0.03), while low-frequency power, related to sympathetic activity, decreased from 40.6 to 34.13 nu (P=0.04). Salivary leptin concentrations decreased significantly from 0.33 to 0.32 ng/mL (P=0.008) in the MIIG group and from 0.35 to 0.32 ng/mL (P=0.004) in the HIIG group. Childhood games positively impacted anthropometry, HRV, and leptin concentrations in both intensity groups, indicating metabolic improvement. However, only the high-intensity strategy enhanced parasympathetic dominance and sympathetic-parasympathetic balance, potentially reducing long-term cardiovascular risk.

Resumen: El cultivo del cacao es muy susceptible a deficiencias nutrimentales y a la moniliasis ocasionada por el fitopatógeno Moniliophthora roreri. Una de las alternativas a los productos químicos sintéticos son los compuestos a base de silicio (Si). En la presente investigación se evaluó el efecto del silicio como bioestimulante en el cultivo de cacao y agente de control biológico de M. roreri. En el experimento se utilizaron cincos tratamientos de Si: T1 (4.00 kg ha-1), T2 (3.00 kg ha-1), T3 (2.00 kg ha-1) y T4 (1.5 kg ha-1) y un tratamiento control (sin aplicación). Se determinaron los indicadores de producción, número de mazorca, peso fresco y seco de almendras, peso seco de 100 almendras y el rendimiento del cultivo. Además, de la incidencia y severidad de la enfermedad a los 60, 120 y 180 días después de la aplicación del Si y la eficiencia de los tratamientos. Los resultados significativamente superiores para las variables: Producción, número mazorca, peso fresco y seco de almendra y peso seco de 100 almendra, se obtuvieron mediante la aplicación de 4 kg ha-1 de Si, todas las dosis de Si superaron al control (P ≤ 0.05) en las variables relacionas a la producción. En el control del fitopatógeno (M. roreri), la dosis de 4 kg ha-1 Si disminuyó la incidencia y la severidad de la enfermedad en más del 50%. La aplicación de Si puede ser una opción en el cultivo de cacao como bioestimulante y agente de control biológico de M. roreri.

Summary: The cocoa crop is very susceptible to nutritional deficiencies and moniliasis caused by the phytopathogen Moniliophthora roreri. One of the alternatives to synthetic chemicals are compounds based on silicon (Si). In the present investigation, the ef fect of silicon as a biostimulant in cocoa cultivation and as a biological control agent for M. roreri was evaluated. In the experiment, five Si treatments were used: T1 (4.00 kg ha-1), T2 (3.00 kg ha-1), T3 (2.00 kg ha-1) and T4 (1.5 kg ha-1) and a control treatment (without application). Production indicators, ear number, fresh and dry weight of almonds, dry weight of 100 almonds and crop yield were determined. In addition, the incidence and severity of the disease at 60, 120 and 180 days af ter the application of Si and the ef ficiency of the treatments. The significantly higher results for the variables: Production, ear number, fresh and dry weight of almond and dry weight of 100 almonds, were obtained by applying 4 kg ha-1 of Si, all doses of Si exceeded the control (P ≤ 0.05) in the variables related to production. In the control of the phytopathogen (M. roreri), the dose of 4 kg ha-1 Si decreased the incidence and severity of the disease by more than 50%. The application of Si can be an option in cocoa cultivation as a biostimulant and biological control agent for M. roreri.

Resumen Introducción: El trasplante renal continúa siendo la mejor opción de tratamiento para los pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica terminal. La escasez de órga nos y los largos tiempos de espera hacen que muchos pacientes lleguen al trasplante con un importante nivel de deterioro. El objetivo es analizar la relación entre variables socioeconómicas y el conocimiento sobre el trasplante renal preemptive en la consulta pretrasplante. Métodos: Estudio de corte transversal. Se analizó un grupo de pacientes mayores de 18 años que inició eva luación pre-trasplante renal en el período comprendido entre agosto 2021 y junio 2023. Se evaluaron variables socioeconómicas y se realizó una breve encuesta sobre seguimiento nefrológico e información sobre trasplante renal previo a diálisis (preemptive). Resultados: Se evaluaron 164 pacientes con (media ± DS) 57 ± 14 años. El 56 % (n = 92) tuvo seguimiento nefrológico prediálisis de 33 ± 66 meses, siendo superior a un año en el 41 % (n = 68). El tiempo en diálisis previo a la consulta pre-trasplante promedió los 20 ± 23 meses. No tenía información sobre trasplante renal previo a la diálisis el 72% (n = 118). Los pacientes con seguimiento nefrológico prediálisis tuvieron más probabilidad de tener información sobre el trasplante renal preemptive (OR 2.94; IC 1.30-6.63; p 0.009) Discusión: La derivación al centro de trasplante se posterga, aumentando el tiempo en diálisis. La mayoría de los pacientes no tienen conocimiento del trasplante renal preemptive. Estos hallazgos señalan la necesidad de implementar políticas de mejora en la educación del paciente, acceso a la información y derivación oportuna a los centros de implante.

Abstract Introduction: Kidney transplant continues to be the best treatment option for patients with end-stage chron ic renal failure. The shortage of organs and long waiting times mean that many patients arrive at the transplant with a significant level of deterioration. The objective was to analyze the relationship between socioeconomic variables and knowledge about pre-emptive kidney transplant in the pre-transplant consultation. Methods: Cross-sectional study. A group of patients over 18 years’ old who began pre-transplant evaluation was analyzed. Socioeconomic variables were evaluated and a brief survey on nephrological follow-up and in formation on kidney transplant prior to dialysis (pre-emptive) was carried out. Results: A total of 164 patients with (mean ± SD) 57 ± 14 years were evaluated. A 56% (n = 92) had a pre-dialysis nephrological follow-up of 33 ± 66 months, with 41% (n = 68) of more than one year. The time on dialysis before the pre-transplant consultation averaged 20 ± 23 months. Seventy-two % (n = 118) did not have information on pre-emptive kidney transplantation. Patients with predialysis nephrological follow-up were more likely to have information about pre-emptive kidney transplantation (OR 2.94; IC 1.30-6.63; p 0.009). Discussion: Referral to the transplant center is post poned by increasing the time on dialysis. Most patients are not aware of pre-emptive kidney transplantation. These findings point out the need to implement policies to improve patient education, access to information, and timely referral to transplant centers.

RESUMEN El objetivo del presente trabajo fue determinar los predictores de la ecología parasitaria de Centrocestus formosanus (Trematoda: Heterophyidae) en Melanoides tuberculata (Caenogastropoda: Thiaridae) en el humedal costero Los Pantanos de Villa (HCLPV), Lima, Perú. Se evaluaron 2532 especímenes de M. tuberculata en tres lagunas: «Las Delicias», «Mayor», y «Marvilla», con diferentes niveles de perturbación consignadas como de «alta», «media», y «baja», respectivamente, durante 2009 al 2011. El mayor tamaño de la longitud total (LT) de M. tuberculata se presentó en Marvilla. La prevalencia de C. formosanus fue en esporoquiste-redia (18.25%) y en la cercaria (24.64%). El orden decreciente de prevalencia para esporoquiste-redia y la cercaria para las lagunas fue Mayor > Marvilla > Las Delicias. El esporoquiste-redia presentó el mayor valor en verano y la cercaria lo registró en la primavera. La regresión logística mostró que la LT del caracol y la profundidad de la laguna fueron predictores significativos para la prevalencia de esporoquiste-redia y cercaria de C. formosanus. La temperatura superficial del agua de cada laguna solo fue predictor significativo para el esporoquiste-redia. Los gráficos de densidad condicional basados en el teorema de Bayes mostraron asociaciones significativas para la todas de las variables, a excepción de la cercaria con la temperatura para la laguna Las Delicias, la cercaria con la LT para laguna Mayor, esporoquisteredia con la profundidad de la laguna Las Delicias, y esporoquiste-redia con la LT para Lagunas Mayor y Marvilla. Se concluye que la LT del caracol, la profundidad y la temperatura del agua superficial de las lagunas fueron predictores significativos para la ecología parasitaria del esporoquiste-redia y de la cercaria de C. formosanus en M. tuberculata en el HCLPV, Lima, Perú.

ABSTRACT The aim of the present work was to determine the predictors of the parasitic ecology of Centrocestus formosanus (Trematoda: Heterophyidae) on Melanoides tuberculata (Caenogastropoda: Thiaridae) in the coastal wetland Los Pantanos de Villa (HCLPV), Lima, Peru. In total, 2532 specimens of M. tuberculata were evaluated in three lagoons: «Las Delicias», «Mayor», and «Marvilla», with different levels of disturbance recorded as «high», «medium», and «low», respectively, during 2009 to 2011. The largest total length (TL) of M. tuberculata occurred in Marvilla. The prevalence of C. formosanus was in sporocyst-redia (18.25%) and cercaria (24.64%). The decreasing order of prevalence for sporocyst-redia and cercaria for the lagoons was Mayor > Marvilla > Las Delicias. The sporocyst-redia presented the highest value in summer and the cercaria recorded it in the spring. Logistic regression showed that snail TL and lagoon depth were significant predictors for the prevalence of C. formosanus sporocyst-redia and cercariae. The surface water temperature of each lagoon was only a significant predictor for the sporocystredia. The conditional density graphs based on Bayes’ theorem showed significant associations for all the variables, except for cercaria with temperature for Laguna Las Delicias, cercaria with TL for Laguna Mayor, sporocyst-redia with depth from Las Delicias lagoon, and sporocyst-redia with the LT for Lagunas Mayor and Marvilla. It is concluded that the TL of the snail, the depth and the temperature of the surface water of the lagoons were significant predictors for the parasitic ecology of the sporocyst-redia and the cercariae of C. formosanus in M. tuberculata in the HCLPV, Lima, Peru.

Resumen La palma Mauritia flexuosa, dominante en los morichales, ofrece diversos servicios ecosistémicos que benefician a las comunidades humanas y la vida silvestre. Sin embargo, los impactos antrópicos afectan su integridad y, dada su potencialidad y uso como producto no maderable, se hace necesario el conocimiento de aspectos poblacionales para su conservación. Por tanto, se evaluó la estructura poblacional de M. flexuosa en un morichal conservado de la altillanura colombiana. Para ello, se establecieron seis transectos (20 x 50 m) en los que se midieron todos los individuos de la especie. Como resultado, se registraron 434 individuos, clasificados en cuatro clases de tamaño: plántulas (4 %), juveniles I (25 %), juveniles II (3 %) y adultos (68 %). Estos individuos presentaron una distribución espacial agregada y densidades entre 630 y 32 palmas/ha. La población refleja una tendencia hacia una baja regeneración natural y una disminución de las clases juveniles a medida que disminuye el nivel de saturación del suelo y aumenta el cierre del dosel.

Abstract The palm Mauritia flexuosa, which is dominant in morichales [palm swamps], offers diverse ecosystem services that benefit human communities and wildlife. However, anthropogenic impacts affect its integrity, and, given its potential and use as a non-timber product, knowledge of population aspects becomes necessary for its conservation. Therefore, the population structure of M. flexuosa was evaluated in a conserved morichal of the Colombian Altillanura. To this effect, six transects (20 x50 m) were established, in which all individuals of the species were measured. As a result, 434 individuals were recorded and classified into four size classes: seedlings (4%), juveniles I (25%), juveniles II (3%), and adults (68%). These individuals showed an aggregated spatial distribution and densities between 630 and 32 palms/ha. The population exhibits a trend towards low natural regeneration and a decrease in juvenile classes as the level of soil saturation decreases and the canopy closure increases.

Abstract Trichonephila clavipes is recorded for the first time in the department of Francisco Morazán, from a female specimen collected on the campus of the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras (CU-UNAH), in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. We also present additional records of males and females collected in the city of La Ceiba (department of Atlántida) and on the island of Útila (department of Islas de la Bahía). To complement the distribution, we included in a map 200 records obtained from the citizen science platform iNaturalist.

Resumen Trichonephila clavipes se registra por primera vez en el departamento de Francisco Morazán, a partir de un ejemplar hembra recolectado en el campus de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Honduras (CU-UNAH), en Tegucigalpa, Honduras. También presentamos registros adicionales de machos y hembras recolectados en la ciudad de La Ceiba (departamento de Atlántida), y en la isla de Útila (departamento de Islas de la Bahía). Para complementar la distribución, incluimos en un mapa 200 registros obtenidos de la plataforma de ciencia ciudadana iNaturalist.

RESUMEN La hidroponía es la tecnología de la agricultura sin suelo, en la que las plantas crecen en un medio acuático. Mientras que la acuaponía es un sistema de producción de alimentos en rápido crecimiento que integra la hidroponía con la acuicultura (cultivo de peces). El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la producción de acelga (Beta vulgaris var. Cicla L.) mediante un sistema hidropónico típico y un sistema acuapónico de producción de tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) en invernadero. Se utilizaron seis sistemas de recirculación independientes para comprobar la producción por triplicado. Un análisis de regresión lineal simple indicó que la tasa de producción de hojas difirió de forma significativa entre sistemas (p < 0.05), ya que en el hidropónico se obtuvieron 3.46 hojas semana-1, mientras que en el acuapónico fue de 1.53 hojas semana-1. La biomasa vegetal aumentó 53.91 g semana-1 en el tratamiento hidropónico y 38.24 g semana-1 en el acuapónico, aunque dichas tasas de producción no difirieron significativamente (p>0.05). No se detectaron diferencias significativas en las concentraciones de amonio (NH4 +), nitrito (NO2 -), y fosfato (PO4 +) en ambos tratamientos; pero se encontraron diferencias significativas para nitratos (NO3 -) entre sistemas (p < 0.05). La producción de acelgas en el sistema hidropónico fue mayor que en el sistema acuapónico en cuanto al número de hojas y la biomasa.

ABSTRACT Hydroponics is the technology of soil-less agriculture, in which plants are grown in an aquatic environment. While aquaponics is a fast-growing food production system that integrates hydroponics with aquaculture (fish farming). The objective of this study was to compare the production of chard (Beta vulgaris var. cicla L.) using a typical hydroponic system and an aquaponic system for tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) production in a greenhouse. Six independent recirculation systems were used to test production by triplicate. Simple linear regression analysis showed that leaf production rate differed significantly between systems (p < 0.05), where the hydroponic trial produced 3.46 leaves week-1 and the aquaponic trial 1.53 leaves week-1. Plant biomass increased by 53.91 g week-1 in the hydroponic and 38.24 g week-1 in the aquaponic treatment, although these production rates did not differ significantly (p > 0.05). No significant differences were detected in the concentrations of ammonium (NH4 +), nitrite (NO2 -), and phosphate (PO4 +) between the treatments; however, significant differences were found for nitrate (NO3 -) between the systems (p < 0.05). Chard production in the hydroponic system was higher than in the aquaponic system in terms of leaf number and biomass.

Abstract: The ethnoarchaeological studies carried out since the 1980s in different sectors of the basin of Antofagasta de la Sierra, Puna de Catamarca, have accounted for a series of native plants and have allowed an approach to the perception and traditional knowledge of the flora of the area contributing to the understanding of the past and present of the region. With regard to the study of fire, it has conventionally been associated with species that are currently conceived as firewood. However, based on a review of the ethnoarchaeological records corresponding to the Southern Central Andes, we identified a larger set of what we call “fire plants” in allusion to taxa that arrive at fires for different reasons and therefore, can integrate the recovered plant records into archaeological combustion structures. Our objective is to review the categorizations of the plants in the area that are part of fires lit or that come to them for various purposes and analyze the variation registered in these categories to make visible the spectrum of practices that could be developed around fire and reduce interpretative biases that consider only the firewood category. At the same time, by reviewing these categories and the associated phytonymy, we explore meeting points and divergences in the native knowledge recorded on both, Western and Eastern sides of the Atacama area.

Resumen: Los estudios etnoarqueológicos realizados desde la década de 1980 en diferentes sectores de la cuenca de Antofagasta de la Sierra, Puna de Catamarca, han dado cuenta de una serie de plantas nativas y han permitido un acercamiento a la percepción y conocimiento tradicional de la flora del área, aportando a la comprensión del pasado y presente de la región. En lo que respecta al estudio del fuego, convencionalmente se le ha asociado a las especies que se conciben en la actualidad como leñas. No obstante, con base en una revisión de los registros etnoarqueológicos correspondientes a los Andes Centro-Sur y a la propia área de estudio, identificamos un conjunto mayor de lo que denominamos como “plantas del fuego” en alusión a taxones que llegan a los fuegos por diferentes motivos y, por lo tanto, pueden integrar los registros vegetales recuperados en estructuras de combustión arqueológicas. Nuestro objetivo es revisar las categorías y usos nativos de las plantas del área que forman parte de fuegos encendidos o que llegan a estos con fines diversos y analizar la variación registrada en estas categorías para visibilizar el espectro de prácticas que podrían desarrollarse en torno al fuego y reducir los sesgos interpretativos que consideran únicamente la categoría leña. A su vez, al revisar estas categorías y las fitonimias asociadas, exploramos puntos de encuentro y divergencias entre los saberes nativos del área atacameña en ambas vertientes cordilleranas.

RESUMEN Introducción: La ocurrencia de mecanismos mixtos de fractura en elementos mecánicos es frecuente, debido al accionar de múltiples factores que intervienen durante el diseño, la fabricación y el funcionamiento de los mismos. Objetivo: Establecer las causas de fallas en columnas de trípode sobre camión, en base a la caracterización del metal base y las uniones soldadas en la región de la falla. Materiales y Métodos: Fue realizada la inspección visual de las fallas, la caracterización química y microestructural por microscopía óptica de las columnas; así como ensayo de tensión del material base. Resultados y Discusión: Los análisis integrados de inspección visual y los resultados de caracterización química y metalográfica, revelan que el material de las columnas no es recomendado para estructuras soldadas y que no fueron tomadas medidas, como el precalentamiento y tratamiento térmico posterior a la soldadura. Por las características del acero y la ubicación de las grietas detectadas, pueden estar asociadas al agrietamiento por hidrógeno difusible. Conclusiones: La falla de las columnas fue resultado de la combinación de varios factores, destacando errores de diseño y fabricación en la selección de un material no recomendado y la no ejecución de medidas de atenuación durante la ejecución de la soldadura, unido también a factores como, posibles sobrecargas u operación inadecuada del equipo.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The occurrence of mixed fracture mechanisms in mechanical elements is frequent, due to the action of multiple factors that intervene during their design, manufacturing and operation. Objective: To establish the causes of failures in tripod columns on trucks, based on the characterization of the base metal and the welded joints in the failure region. Materials and Methods: Visual inspection of the failures, chemical and microstructural characterization by optical microscopy of the columns, as well as tensible test of the base material were carried out. Results and Discussion: The integrated visual inspection analysis and the results of chemical and metallographic characterization reveal that the material of the columns is not recommended for welded structures and that measures such as preheating and thermal treatment after welding were not taken. Due to the characteristics of the steel and the location of the detected cracks, they may be associated with diffusible hydrogen cracking. Conclusions: The failure of the columns was the result of a combination of several factors, highlighting design and manufacturing errors in the selection of a non-recommended material and the non-execution of attenuation measures during the execution of the welding, also linked to factors such as, possible overloads or improper operation of the equipment.