Geographical and life-history traits associated with low and high species richness across angiosperm families.

Introduction: The phenomenal expansion of angiosperms has prompted many investigations into the factors driving their diversification, but there remain significant gaps in our understanding of flowering plant species diversity. Methods: Using the crown age of families from five studies, we used a maximum likelihood approach to classify families as having poor, predicted or high species richness (SR) using strict consensus criteria. Using these categories, we looked for associations between family SR and i) the presence of an inferred familial ancestral polyploidization event, ii) 23 life history and floral traits compiled from previously published datasets and papers, and iii) sexual system (dioecy) or genetically determined self-incompatibility (SI) mating system using an updated version of our own database and iv) geographic distribution using a new database describing the global distribution of plant species/families across realms and biomes and inferred range. Results: We find that more than a third of angiosperm families (65%) had predicted SR, a large proportion (30.2%) were species poor, while few (4.8%) had high SR. Families with poor SR were less likely to have undergone an ancestral polyploidization event, exhibited deficits in diverse traits, and were more likely to have unknown breeding systems and to be found in only one or few biomes and realms, especially the Afrotropics or Australasia. On the other hand, families with high SR were more likely to have animal mediated pollination or dispersal, are enriched for epiphytes and taxa with an annual life history, and were more likely to harbour sporophytic SI systems. Mapping the global distribution of georeferenced taxa by their family DR, we find evidence of regions dominated by taxa from lineages with high vs low SR. Discussion: These results are discussed within the context of the literature describing "depauperons" and the factors contributing to low and high biodiversity in angiosperm clades.

Factores que afectan el comportamiento de la arrancada en los velocistas escolares categoría 12-15 años

En la provincia Pinar del Río, en los últimos cinco años se ha notado cierto descenso de los rendimientos de los corredores de distancias cortas. Entre uno de los aspectos que incide en ello figura el pobre aprovechamiento de la arrancada. Esta investigación se realizó con el objetivo de analizar del comportamiento, en la arrancada de la carrera de 100 metros planos de los velocistas escolares categoría 12-15 años de la Escuela de Iniciación Deportiva de Pinar del Río. En la actualidad, se procura personalizar el tipo de arrancada a las características específicas de cada atleta, local para garantizar un aprovechamiento óptimo de sus características antropométricas, potencia muscular, distancia de carrera y ubicación en la pista. El estudio se llevó a cabo con los ocho atletas de la categoría 12-15 años, sexo masculino, matriculados en el área de velocidad en la Escuela de Iniciación Deportiva de Pinar del Río. Se realizó una revisión documental del proceso de entrenamiento de la arrancada baja que se lleva a cabo en los velocistas escolares, además de aplicar otros métodos empíricos como: la observación a los entrenamientos, la medición y la técnica de encuesta. Los resultados arrojados muestran que existen factores en el proceso de entrenamiento que atentan contra el éxito competitivo de estos atletas; esto genera necesidad de organizar acciones en un orden secuencial, lógica que permitan su perfeccionamiento en base al ajuste a los cambios de la condición de estos sujetos.

Na província de Pinar del Río, nos últimos cinco anos, notou-se uma certa diminuição no desempenho dos corredores de curta distância. Um dos aspectos que afeta isso é o mau aproveitamento da largada. Esta pesquisa foi realizada com o objetivo de analisar o comportamento na largada da corrida de 100 metros rasos de velocistas escolares da categoria 12-15 anos da Escola de Iniciação Esportiva Pinar del Río. Atualmente, são feitos esforços para personalizar o tipo de largada às características específicas de cada atleta local para garantir o aproveitamento ideal de suas características antropométricas, potência muscular, distância de corrida e localização na pista. O estudo foi realizado com oito atletas da categoria 12 a 15 anos, do sexo masculino, matriculados na área de velocidade da Escola de Iniciação Esportiva Pinar del Río. Foi realizada uma revisão documental do processo de treinamento low start realizado em velocistas escolares, além de aplicar outros métodos empíricos como: observação ao treinamento, medição e técnica de levantamento. Os resultados mostram que existem fatores no processo de treinamento que ameaçam o sucesso competitivo desses atletas; Isso gera a necessidade de organizar as ações em uma ordem sequencial e lógica que permita seu aprimoramento a partir do ajuste às mudanças na condição desses sujeitos.

SUMMARY In the Pinar del Río province, in the last five years a certain decrease in the performance of short distance runners has been noted. One of the aspects that affects this is the poor use of the start. This research was carried out with the objective of analyzing the behavior at the start of the 100-meter dash race of school sprinters in the 12-15-year category of the Pinar del Río Sports Initiation School. Currently, efforts are made to personalize the type of start to the specific characteristics of each local athlete to guarantee optimal use of their anthropometric characteristics, muscular power, race distance and location on the track. The study was carried out with eight athletes in the 12-15-year-old category, male, enrolled in the speed area at the Pinar del Río Sports Initiation School. A documentary review of the low start training process carried out in school sprinters was carried out, in addition to applying other empirical methods such as: observation to training, measurement and survey technique. The results show that there are factors in the training process that threaten the competitive success of these athletes; this generates the need to organize actions in a sequential, logical order that allows their improvement based on adjustment to changes in the condition of these subjects.

La superación de los profesionales de la Cultura Física, desde la extensión universitaria

El perfeccionamiento de los tres procesos sustantivos de la universidad, la docencia, la investigación y la extensión universitaria ha sido una prioridad para la educación superior cubana que ha desarrollado una serie de cambios y transformaciones en aras de garantizar una excelente formación de los profesionales que egresan de ella. En este sentido, la investigación abordó el tema de la extensión universitaria en la superación profesional y tuvo como objetivo favorecer la superación de los docentes universitarios y su vinculación con los avances científicos en un curso de posgrado para la Licenciatura en Cultura Física y Deportes, desde la extensión universitaria. El proceso investigativo se rigió por el método dialectico-materialista y se emplearon métodos del nivel teórico como el histórico-lógico y el análisis-síntesis y del nivel empírico el análisis documental, la entrevista en profundidad y la encuesta, para interpretar los resultados obtenidos en cada etapa de la investigación. Los resultados mostraron como principales debilidades el insuficiente reconocimiento de la importancia de la extensión universitaria en el contexto docente, así como la poca producción científica relacionada con la temática. Del estudio realizado se concluye que la extensión universitaria en la superación de este profesional constituye una vía expedita para un mejor conocimiento, gestión, preservación y difusión de actividades intra- y extracurriculares y en la mejora de la calidad de vida, con el fin de contribuir a formar ciudadanos capaces de ser, conocer, hacer y convivir juntos.

A melhoria dos três processos substantivos da universidade, o ensino, a pesquisa e a extensão universitária, tem sido uma prioridade para o ensino superior cubano, que tem desenvolvido uma série de mudanças e transformações a fim de garantir uma excelente formação dos profissionais que nela se graduam. Nesse sentido, a pesquisa abordou a questão da extensão universitária no desenvolvimento profissional e seu objetivo foi promover o desenvolvimento dos professores universitários e sua vinculação com os avanços científicos em um curso de pós-graduação para o Bacharelado em Cultura Física e Esportes, a partir da perspectiva da extensão universitária. O processo de pesquisa foi regido pelo método dialético-materialista, utilizando métodos teóricos como o histórico-lógico e a análise-síntese e métodos empíricos como a análise documental, a entrevista em profundidade e o survey, para interpretar os resultados obtidos em cada etapa da pesquisa. Os resultados apontaram como principais fragilidades o insuficiente reconhecimento da importância da extensão universitária no contexto do ensino, bem como a pouca produção científica relacionada ao tema. A partir do estudo realizado, conclui-se que a extensão universitária no aprimoramento desse profissional constitui um caminho expedito para um melhor conhecimento, gerenciamento, preservação e divulgação das atividades intra e extracurriculares e na melhoria da qualidade de vida, com o objetivo de contribuir para formar cidadãos capazes de ser, saber, fazer e conviver.

The improvement of the three substantive processes of the university, teaching, research and university extension has been a priority for Cuban higher education that has developed a series of changes and transformations in order to guarantee an excellent training of the professionals who graduate from it. In this sense, the research addressed the issue of university extension in professional upgrading and had the objective of promoting the improvement of university teachers and their link with scientific advances in a postgraduate course for the Degree in Physical Culture and Sports, from the university extension. The research process was governed by the dialectical-materialist method; theoretical level methods such as historical-logical and analysis-synthesis and empirical level ones as documentary analysis, in-depth interview and survey were used to interpret the results obtained in each stage of the research. The results showed as main weaknesses the insufficient recognition of the importance of university extension in the teaching context, as well as the little scientific production related to the subject. From the study carried out, it is concluded that the university extension in the improvement of this professional constitutes an expeditious way for a better knowledge, management, preservation and dissemination of intra- and extracurricular activities and in the improvement of the quality of life, in order to contribute to form citizens capable of being, knowing, doing and living together.

Análisis comportamental del líbero en la categoría juvenil masculino de voleibol

Entre los innumerables cambios ocurridos en el voleibol contemporáneo, se encuentra la aparición del jugador líbero. Se trata de un jugador meramente defensivo que puede entrar y salir continuamente del campo y sustituir a cualquiera de los otros jugadores cuando por rotación se encuentran en defensa. La investigación que se presenta tiene como objetivo valorar el comportamiento técnico-táctico del jugador líbero en la categoría juvenil masculino de voleibol; para ello, se utilizaron métodos científicos del nivel teórico y empírico como la revisión documental, la observación y la entrevista que garantizaron el estudio de los 16 atletas loberos que participaron en el campeonato nacional juvenil 2022. Los resultados obtenidos ofrecen una serie de datos importantes sobre las particularidades individuales y colectivas de los atletas estudiados, para direccionar la programación del entrenamiento.

Entre as inúmeras mudanças que ocorreram no vôlei contemporâneo está o surgimento do jogador líbero. Trata-se de um jogador puramente defensivo que pode entrar e sair continuamente da quadra e substituir qualquer um dos outros jogadores quando estes estiverem na defesa em rodízio. A pesquisa aqui apresentada tem como objetivo avaliar o comportamento técnico-tático do jogador líbero na categoria juvenil masculina de voleibol; para isso, foram utilizados métodos científicos de nível teórico e empírico como a revisão documental, a observação e a entrevista que garantiram o estudo dos 16 atletas líberos que participaram do campeonato nacional juvenil de 2022. Os resultados obtidos oferecem uma série de dados importantes sobre as particularidades individuais e coletivas dos atletas estudados, para direcionar a programação do treinamento.

Among the innumerable changes that have occurred in contemporary volleyball, is the appearance of the libero player. He is a purely defensive player who can continuously enter and leave the field and replace any of the other players when they are in defense due to rotation. The research presented aims to assess the technical-tactical behavior of the libero player in the male youth volleyball category; for this, scientific methods of the theoretical level such as, historical -logical and inductive-deductive, as well as documentary review, observation and interview of the empirical level were used, which guaranteed the study of the 16 wolves athletes who participated in the 2022 national youth championship. The results obtained offer a series of important data on the individual and collective particularities of the athletes studied, to direct the training schedule.

Solitary Extramedullary Plasmacytoma of the Head and Neck: A Report of Three Cases Treated With Curative Radiotherapy and a Review of the Dose-Control Relationship.

Solitary plasmacytoma is an uncommon hematologic malignancy characterized by the monoclonal proliferation of abnormal plasma cells in the bone or extramedullary tissues and the absence of other multiple myeloma-defining clinical characteristics. Mostly, solitary extramedullary plasmacytoma (SEP) occurs in the head and neck region, also called solitary extramedullary plasmacytoma of the head and neck (SEPHN). Although the standard of care for SEPHN is not well established, either a surgical approach or localized external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) can be used as a definitive treatment. Due to the high radiosensitivity of SEPHN, EBRT has been associated with adequate therapeutic effects in the management of SEP, with the advantage of being a noninvasive modality that yields high rates of local control with a reasonable toxicity profile. We present a case series of three patients with SEPHN treated with EBRT at our institution with clinical outcomes.

A comparative genomics examination of desiccation tolerance and sensitivity in two sister grass species.

Desiccation tolerance is an ancient and complex trait that spans all major lineages of life on earth. Although important in the evolution of land plants, the mechanisms that underlay this complex trait are poorly understood, especially for vegetative desiccation tolerance (VDT). The lack of suitable closely related plant models that offer a direct contrast between desiccation tolerance and sensitivity has hampered progress. We have assembled high-quality genomes for two closely related grasses, the desiccation-tolerant Sporobolus stapfianus and the desiccation-sensitive Sporobolus pyramidalis Both species are complex polyploids; S. stapfianus is primarily tetraploid, and S. pyramidalis is primarily hexaploid. S. pyramidalis undergoes a major transcriptome remodeling event during initial exposure to dehydration, while S. stapfianus has a muted early response, with peak remodeling during the transition between 1.5 and 1.0 grams of water (gH2O) g-1 dry weight (dw). Functionally, the dehydration transcriptome of S. stapfianus is unrelated to that for S. pyramidalis A comparative analysis of the transcriptomes of the hydrated controls for each species indicated that S. stapfianus is transcriptionally primed for desiccation. Cross-species comparative analyses indicated that VDT likely evolved from reprogramming of desiccation tolerance mechanisms that evolved in seeds and that the tolerance mechanism of S. stapfianus represents a recent evolution for VDT within the Chloridoideae. Orthogroup analyses of the significantly differentially abundant transcripts reconfirmed our present understanding of the response to dehydration, including the lack of an induction of senescence in resurrection angiosperms. The data also suggest that failure to maintain protein structure during dehydration is likely critical in rendering a plant desiccation sensitive.

Control of membrane protein homeostasis by a chaperone-like glial cell adhesion molecule at multiple subcellular locations.

The significance of crosstalks among constituents of plasma membrane protein clusters/complexes in cellular proteostasis and protein quality control (PQC) remains incompletely understood. Examining the glial (enriched) cell adhesion molecule (CAM), we demonstrate its chaperone-like role in the biosynthetic processing of the megalencephalic leukoencephalopathy with subcortical cyst 1 (MLC1)-heteromeric regulatory membrane protein complex, as well as the function of the GlialCAM/MLC1 signalling complex. We show that in the absence of GlialCAM, newly synthesized MLC1 molecules remain unfolded and are susceptible to polyubiquitination-dependent proteasomal degradation at the endoplasmic reticulum. At the plasma membrane, GlialCAM regulates the diffusional partitioning and endocytic dynamics of cluster members, including the ClC-2 chloride channel and MLC1. Impaired folding and/or expression of GlialCAM or MLC1 in the presence of diseases causing mutations, as well as plasma membrane tethering compromise the functional expression of the cluster, leading to compromised endo-lysosomal organellar identity. In addition, the enlarged endo-lysosomal compartments display accelerated acidification, ubiquitinated cargo-sorting and impaired endosomal recycling. Jointly, these observations indicate an essential and previously unrecognized role for CAM, where GliaCAM functions as a PQC factor for the MLC1 signalling complex biogenesis and possess a permissive role in the membrane dynamic and cargo sorting functions with implications in modulations of receptor signalling.

La fase excéntrica-concéntrica y el índice de fuerza reactiva en el salto con contra movimiento en voleibolistas / A fase excêntrica-concêntrica e o índice de força reativa no salto de contra-movimento nos jogadores de vôlei / The eccentric-concentric phase and the index of strength reactivates in the jump with counter movement in volleyball players

RESUMEN El trabajo que se presenta tiene como objetivo analizar la relación existente entre la fase excéntrica-concéntrica y el índice de fuerza reactiva en el salto vertical con contra movimiento del equipo de voleibol, de la primera categoría de La Habana. Para ello, se hace referencia al significado de los diferentes componentes de la contracción muscular en la actividad deportiva, así como otros tipos de contracciones musculares para el trabajo dinámico. Los métodos empleados fueron de nivel teórico y empírico, tales como histórico-lógico, inductivo-deductivo, análisis-síntesis, revisión documental, la medición y los matemáticos-estadísticos; estos últimos para la tabulación y arribo de resultados. Se utilizó el método de puntuación de McCall para determinar la evaluación de los indicadores seleccionados, donde se tiene en cuenta los valores observados por encima de la media, los cuales tienen puntuaciones estándar positivas, mientras que los valores por debajo de la media tienen puntuaciones estándar negativas. Se realiza una comparación con otras investigaciones, sobrepasando en el caso de los varones por 0.8 cm. Con respecto a la media cubana, hay una diferencia de 0.7 cm. con respecto a la media española de 0.13 cm. y al analizar la referencia internacional, la diferencia está entre 8 y 13 cm. La información alcanzada facilitó la correcta planificación y su intensificación en las cargas con pesas en la zona de fuerza máxima, rápida y explosiva para el incremento del salto vertical en los atletas de voleibol, reflejado en el resultado competitivo del equipo.

RESUMO O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar a relação entre a fase excêntrica-concêntrica e o índice de força reativa no salto vertical com contra-movimento da equipe de vôlei da primeira categoria de Havana. Para este fim, é feita referência ao significado dos diferentes componentes da contração muscular na atividade esportiva, assim como outros tipos de contrações musculares para o trabalho dinâmico. Os métodos utilizados foram de nível teórico e empírico, tais como histórico-lógico, indutivo-dedutivo, análise-síntese, revisão documental, medição e matemática-estatística; este último para a tabulação e chegada dos resultados. O método de pontuação de McCall foi usado para determinar a avaliação dos indicadores selecionados, onde os valores observados acima da média são levados em consideração, que têm pontuação padrão positiva, enquanto os valores abaixo da média têm pontuação padrão negativa. É feita uma comparação com outras pesquisas, superando em 0,8 cm no caso dos homens. Em relação à média cubana, há uma diferença de 0,7 cm. em relação à média espanhola de 0,13 cm. e quando se analisa a referência internacional, a diferença está entre 8 e 13 cm. As informações obtidas facilitaram o planejamento correto e sua intensificação nas cargas com pesos na zona de força máxima, rápida e explosiva para o aumento do salto vertical em atletas de vôlei, refletido no resultado competitivo da equipe.

ABSTRACT The aim of this work is to analyze the relationship between the eccentric-concentric phase and the reactive strength index in the vertical jump with countermovement of the first category volleyball team in Havana. For this purpose, reference is made to the meaning of the different components of muscular contraction in sports activity, as well as other types of muscular contractions for dynamic work. The methods used were theoretical and empirical, such as historical-logical, inductive-deductive, analysis-synthesis, documentary review, measurement and mathematical-statistical; the latter for the tabulation and arrival of results. McCall's scoring method was used to determine the evaluation of the selected indicators, where the values observed above the mean are taken into account, which have positive standard scores, while the values below the mean have negative standard scores. A comparison is made with other research, exceeding in the case of males by 0.8 cm. With respect to the Cuban average, there is a difference of 0.7 cm. with respect to the Spanish average of 0.13 cm. and when analyzing the international reference, the difference is between 8 and 13 cm. The information achieved facilitated the correct planning and its intensification in the loads with weights in the zone of maximum, fast and explosive strength for the increase of the vertical jump in volleyball athletes, reflected in the competitive result of the team.

Mortalidad por hipertensión arterial en personas mayores cubanas: Estudio de causas múltiples en 582494 casos

RESUMEN Introducción: La hipertensión arterial (HTA) constituye un problema de salud. Mediante la codificación de causas múltiples se puede estimar su papel como causa de muerte. Objetivos: Definir la ganancia cuantitativa de la HTA para determinar su aporte relativo real como causa de muerte en las personas mayores en Cuba, cuando se compara por la metodología de causas múltiples con la causa básica. Método: Se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo de las 582 494 defunciones ocurridas en Cuba entre 2013 y 2019. Se evaluaron las Enfermedades Hipertensivas (I10-I15) como causa de defunción según la Clasificación Internacional de Enfermedades (CIE-10) y la frecuencia con que la HTA era informada como causa básica o no básica, y el total de menciones (causas múltiples). Resultados: Casi nueve de cada diez personas que fallecen con y por HTA en Cuba tienen 60 años y más, y el riesgo de morir por y con esta enfermedad evidencia un ascenso en los siete años analizados en este grupo poblacional. El análisis por causas múltiples muestra un aumento pronunciado de los casos de HTA. La razón entre causas múltiples y causa básica estuvo alrededor de 4; pero hubo un leve incremento del número absoluto de certificados de defunción donde se consideró la HTA como causa básica de muerte. La mortalidad proporcional por hipertensión, mediante el análisis de causas no básicas, fue tres veces mayor que por el análisis de causas básicas (diferencia absoluta promedio de 8,4%). Las enfermedades cerebrovasculares y del corazón son las causas básicas donde, con mayor frecuencia, aparece la enfermedad hipertensiva como padecimiento asociado. Conclusiones: La HTA, es una enfermedad de relativamente baja frecuencia como causa básica de muerte en las personas mayores en Cuba, pero muy frecuente como causa concurrente, lo que demuestra la importancia de su prevención y control en este grupo poblacional.

ABSTRACT Introduction: High blood pressure (HBP) constitutes a health problem. Its role as a cause of death can be estimated by multiple-cause coding. Objectives: To define the quantitative gain of high blood pressure to determine its real relative contribution as a cause of death in the elderly in Cuba when compared by the multiple-cause methodology with the underlying cause of death. Methods: We conducted a descriptive observational study of 582 494 deaths in Cuba between 2013 and 2019. Hypertensive Diseases (I10-I15) were evaluated as a cause of death according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10), the frequency with which high blood pressure was reported as an underlying/contributory cause of death and the total number of times it was mentioned (multiple causes). Results: Almost nine out of every 10 persons who die with and due to high blood pressure in Cuba are 60 years of age and older, and the risk of dying with and due to this disease has increased in the seven years analyzed in this population group. The analysis by multiple causes shows a noticeable increase in the number of high blood pressure cases. The ratio between multiple causes and underlying cause of death was around 4; but there was a slight increase in the absolute number of death certificates where high blood pressure was considered the underlying cause of death. The proportional mortality due to high blood pressure, using the analysis of contributory causes, was three times higher than that of the analysis of underlying causes of death (average absolute difference of 8.4%). Cerebrovascular and heart disease are the underlying causes where hypertensive disease most frequently appears as an associated condition. Conclusions: High blood pressure is a disease of relatively low frequency as an underlying cause of death in the elderly in Cuba, but frequent as a concurrent or contributory cause, which demonstrates the importance of its prevention and control in this population group.

Riqueza vegetal en patios familiares del trópico mexicano: hallazgos desde la teoría de polos de desarrollo / Species richness in residential yards of the Mexican tropics: findings from development pole theory

Resumen La riqueza de especies existentes en el patio familiar es el resultado de la coincidencia de procesos sociales, económicos, culturales y ambientales, que suceden más allá de sus límites físicos. Una teoría aún vigente para comprender estos factores externos es la teoría de polos de desarrollo. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue conocer la riqueza de especies vegetales comestibles versus ornamentales en patios familiares de 13 comunidades de Paso de Ovejas, Veracruz y la influencia que tiene en ello el polo de desarrollo más cercano (cabecera municipal). Se aplicó una encuesta consistente en 443 cuestionarios, a través de un muestreo no probabilístico de tipo accidental. En el análisis de los datos se usó estadística descriptiva e inferencial (componentes principales) y los índices de familiaridad (IF), valor de uso (IVU) y consenso del informante (ICF). Los resultados obtenidos sugieren que la riqueza de especies ornamentales versus comestibles está relacionada con la lejanía o cercanía al polo de desarrollo. La influencia de este polo afecta la dinámica socioeconómica familiar, cuyos miembros, si bien evidencian un alto grado de familiaridad con las especies existentes en sus patios familiares, también expresan la generación de condiciones de posibilidad para que parte de ellas (especies comestibles) puedan ser progresivamente abandonadas en su uso y manejo, como sucede en una comunidad de la ruta 3. Se concluye que, en la determinación de la riqueza de especies del patio familiar interviene el polo de desarrollo, como un factor exógeno, el cual trastoca la dinámica familiar en las comunidades que lo circundan. Dicha información se considera relevante para los tomadores de decisiones en el diseño de estrategias de fortalecimiento de este agroecosistema tradicional.

Abstract The richness of plant species in residential yards is the result of the coincidence of social, economic, cultural and environmental processes that occur beyond their physical boundaries. A still relevant theory to understand these external factors is the Theory of Poles of Development. The objective of this research was to know the richness of edible versus ornamental plant species in residential yards of 13 communities in Paso de Ovejas, Veracruz, and the influence that the development pole (municipal head) has on it. 443 questionnaires were administered through a non-probabilistic accidental type sampling procedure. Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics (main components), and the application of indexes of Familiarity (IF), Use Value (IVU) and Informant Consensus (ICF). The results obtained suggest that the richness of ornamental versus edible species is influenced by the distance or proximity to the development pole. The influence of this development pole will affect family socioeconomic dynamics, whose members show a high degree of familiarity with the species existing in their family yards, but also express that the generation of conditions of possibility in such a way that part of edible species can be progressively abandoned in their use and management, as happens in a community on route 3. It is concluded that the determination of the species richness of residential yards is influenced by the development pole as an exogenous factor, which disrupts family dynamics in the surrounding communities. Such information is considered relevant for decision makers in the design of strategies to strengthen this traditional agroecosystem.

Five-year quality of life in patients with high-risk localized prostate cancer treated with external beam radiotherapy alone versus external beam radiotherapy with high-dose-rate brachytherapy boost: a prospective multicenter study.

PURPOSE: Brachytherapy (BT) and external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) are effective treatments for high-risk prostate cancer (PCa). However, the impact of these treatments on health-related quality of life (HRQL) remains unclear. In this study, we compared EBRT alone with EBRT plus a boost with high-dose rate (HDR)-BT to determine the impact on HRQL in patients with high-risk PCa. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Prospective, multicenter study comparing patients with high-risk PCa treated with EBRT alone or EBRT + HDR-BT from 2004 to 2006. HRQL was assessed at baseline (pre-treatment) and periodically over the 5-year follow-up, using the SF-36 (v.2), EPIC, and FACT-G and FACT-P questionnaires. RESULTS: A total of 129 patients were included in the study, of these, 41 received EBRT alone and 88 EBRT + HDR-BT. All patients received hormonotherapy. Baseline clinical characteristics were similar, except for a slightly higher mean number of comorbidities in the EBRT group. During follow-up, the only significant between-group difference was a greater worsening on EPIC hormonal domain in the EBRT alone group (p = 0.028). There were no significant differences in time and interaction of treatment in SF-36, and FACT-G and FACT-P questionnaires or EPIC urinary incontinence, urinary irritative-obstructive, and bowel and sexual domains over the 5-year follow-up. Oncological outcomes were similar in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: After five years of follow-up, EBRT alone or combined with HDR-BT boost had a similar impact on HRQL in patients with high-risk localized PCa. However, patients in the EBRT alone group experienced greater worsening of hormonal domain according to EPIC questionnaire.

Cut-off points for serum ferritin to identify low iron stores during the first year of life in a cohort of Mexican infants.

The aim of this study was to identify serum ferritin (SF) cut-off points (COPs) in a cohort of healthy full-term normal birth weight infants who had repeated measurements of SF and haemoglobin every 3 months during the first year of life. The study included 746 full-term infants with birth weight ≥2,500 g, having uncomplicated gestations and births. Participants received prophylactic iron supplementation (1 mg/day of iron element) from the first to the 12th month of life and did not develop anaemia during the first year of life. Two statistical methods were considered to identify COPs for low iron stores at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months of age: deviation from mean and cluster analysis. According to the K-means cluster analysis results by age and sex, COPs at 3 and 6 months for girls were 39 and 21 µg/L and for boys 23 and 11 µg/L, respectively. A single COP of 10 µg/L was identified, for girls and boys, at both 9 and 12 months. Given the physiological changes in SF concentration during the first year of life, our study identified dynamic COPs, which differed by sex in the first semester. Adequate SF COPs are necessary to identify low iron stores at an early stage of iron deficiency, which represents one of the most widespread public health problems around the world, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

A multivalent T-antigen-based vaccine for Group A Streptococcus.

Pili of Group A Streptococcus (GAS) are surface-exposed structures involved in adhesion and colonisation of the host during infection. The major protein component of the GAS pilus is the T-antigen, which multimerises to form the pilus shaft. There are currently no licenced vaccines against GAS infections and the T-antigen represents an attractive target for vaccination. We have generated a multivalent vaccine called TeeVax1, a recombinant protein that consists of a fusion of six T-antigen domains. Vaccination with TeeVax1 produces opsonophagocytic antibodies in rabbits and confers protective efficacy in mice against invasive disease. Two further recombinant proteins, TeeVax2 and TeeVax3 were constructed to cover 12 additional T-antigens. Combining TeeVax1-3 produced a robust antibody response in rabbits that was cross-reactive to a full panel of 21 T-antigens, expected to provide over 95% vaccine coverage. These results demonstrate the potential for a T-antigen-based vaccine to prevent GAS infections.

Estudio del comportamiento del salto en atletas juveniles de voleibol de playa / Estudo do comportamento do salto em atletas juniores de voleibol de praia / Study of the behavior of the jump in junior athletes of beach volleyball

Resumen En la búsqueda de una pertinencia en el contexto del perfeccionamiento de los componentes de la preparación física en los niveles del alto rendimiento para el volley de playa, es que se emprende esta investigación, que tiene como objetivo analizar elementos relacionados con el comportamiento del salto en los atletas juveniles de voleibol de playa de la Eide de Pinar del Río. Para ello, se tuvo en cuenta la utilización de métodos científicos, teóricos y empíricos, como la revisión documental y la medición, que garantizaron el cumplimiento de los objetivos propuestos. Los resultados obtenidos ofrecen una serie de datos importantes sobre las particularidades individuales y colectivas de los atletas estudiados, que propiciarán una valiosa información a los entrenadores que les permitirá direccionar el trabajo en el sentido de la programación del entrenamiento.

Resumo Na busca de uma pertinência no contexto do aperfeiçoamento dos componentes da preparação física nos niveles do alto rendimento para o voleibol de praia, es que se empreende esta investigação, que tiene como objectivo analisar elementos relacionados com o comportamento do salto nas atletas juvenis de vôlei de praia de la EIDE de Pinar del Río. Para além disso, é necessário ter em conta a utilização de métodos científicos, teóricos e empíricos, como a revisão documental e a meditação, que garantem o cumprimento dos objectivos de proteção do amianto. Os resultados obtidos permitiram a obtenção de uma série de dados importantes sobre as particularidades individuais e coletivas dos atletas estudados, que propiciará uma valiosa informação aos participantes que permitirão direcionar o trabajo no sentido do programa de entrada.

Abstract In the search for relevance in the context of improving the components of physical preparation at high performance levels for beach volleyball, this research is undertaken to analyse elements related to jumping behaviour in young beach volleyball athletes at the Eide in Pinar del Río. For this purpose, the use of scientific, theoretical and empirical methods was taken into account, such as document review and measurement, which guaranteed the fulfilment of the proposed objectives. The results obtained provide a series of important data on the individual and collective particularities of the athletes studied, which will provide valuable information to the coaches that will allow them to direct the work in the sense of training programming.

Acciones para la técnica top spin de revés, en atletas escolares de tenis de mesa / Ações para a técnica do backhand top spin em atletas escolais de tênis de mesa / Actions for the technical top setback spin in athletes of tennis of table

Resumen El presente trabajo se genera a partir del análisis de los resultados obtenidos por los atletas de tenis de mesa, de la categoría sub 13 años de la Eide de Pinar del Rio, en los campeonatos nacionales escolares 2017 y 2018, donde no se obtuvieron buenos resultados, presentándose dificultades en la efectividad durante los partidos efectuados. De ahí que, en la búsqueda de logros competitivos superiores, se planteó como objetivo: concebir un sistema de acciones estratégicas para el perfeccionamiento de la técnica top-spin de revés sobre el efecto abajo, en situaciones reales del juego que aumente la efectividad en los atletas de tenis de mesa, en la categoría sub 13 años de la Eide de Pinar del Río. Para ello, se aplicaron métodos científicos tales como: la observación, la entrevista, así como la revisión de diferentes fuentes bibliográficas, que permitieron, a partir del diagnóstico del fenómeno a estudiar, elaborar el sistema de acciones para enfrentar la solución de la problemática planteada.

Resumo Este trabalho é gerado a partir da análise dos resultados obtidos por atletas de tênis de mesa, na categoria menores de 13 anos da Eide de Pinar del Rio, nos campeonatos escolares nacionais de 2017 e 2018, onde não foram obtidos bons resultados, apresentando dificuldades de eficácia durante as partidas disputadas. Assim, na busca por conquistas competitivas superiores, o objetivo foi: conceber um sistema de ações estratégicas para o aprimoramento da técnica do backhand top spin no efeito downward, em situações reais de jogo que aumente a eficácia em atletas de tênis de mesa, na categoria menores de 13 anos da Eide de Pinar del Río. Para tanto, foram aplicados métodos científicos como: observação, entrevista, bem como a revisão de diferentes fontes bibliográficas, o que permitiu, a partir do diagnóstico do fenômeno a ser estudado, desenvolver o sistema de ações para o enfrentamento da solução do problema levantado.

Abstract The work that sample the results of a study carried out in the development of the championships national school 2017 and 2018 is presented where the athletes of Tennis of Table of the category sub 13 years of the Eide of Pinar del Río they presented difficulties in the effectiveness during the made parties. With the result that in the search competitive achievements you outlines as objective for that investigation to improve the technical top setback spin in the school athletes of the EIDE of Pinegrove of the River, assisting to the current tendencies of the sport training. Such scientific methods were applied as the observations, the interview, as well as they revised it different bibliographical sources that facilitated to diagnose the phenomenon to study and their possible solution with a system of actions strategic altars of solving the deficiencies that it exists in the athletes of tennis of table of the county of Pinar del Río.

Análisis de la calidad de ejecución técnica de los golpeos de mano alta, en atletas de bádminton categoría escolar / Análise da qualidade da execução técnica dos golpes de mão alta, na categoria escolar badminton atletas / Analysis of the quality of technical execution of high hand strokes in school category badminton athletes

Resumen La práctica del bádminton, desde sus inicios, en el alto rendimiento en la provincia Pinar del Río, ha logrado mantener un trabajo sistemático y con resultados que avalan la estancia de atletas pinareños en la élite nacional, fundamentalmente en la modalidad de doble y doble mixto, sin embargo, en la evaluación de los resultados de los test pedagógicos-técnicos y evaluaciones de los objetivos pedagógicos a nivel nacional, actualmente están evaluados de Mal. Con el objetivo de conocer tal comportamiento, se realizó un minucioso estudio de las particularidades de la ejecución técnica de los golpeos de mano alta, la cual resulta ser la técnica más afectada según observaciones realizadas a sesiones de entrenamientos y desarrollo de competencias. La investigación se desarrolló en los siete atletas de la categoría escolar de la EIDE "Ormani Arenado Llorch" de Pinar del Río. A través de la entrevista y la observación como métodos científicos, se pudo constatar el nivel de ejecución técnico de los golpeos de mano alta en los atletas de bádminton categoría escolar, detectándose insuficiencias que atentan con la obtención de resultados competitivos superiores.

Resumo A prática do badminton, desde o seu início, no alto desempenho na província de Pinar del Río, conseguiu manter um trabalho sistemático e com resultados que garantem a permanência dos atletas de Pinar del Río na elite nacional, principalmente na modalidade dupla e mista, no entanto, na avaliação dos resultados dos testes pedagógico-técnicos e avaliações dos objetivos pedagógicos a nível nacional, são atualmente avaliados por Mal. A fim de compreender este comportamento, foi realizado um estudo detalhado sobre as particularidades da execução técnica dos golpes de mão alta, que é a técnica mais afetada de acordo com as observações feitas durante as sessões de formação e o desenvolvimento de competências. A investigação foi desenvolvida nos sete atletas da categoria escolar do EIDE "Ormani Arenado Llorch" em Pinar del Río. Através da entrevista e da observação como métodos científicos, foi possível verificar o nível de execução técnica dos golpes de mão alta nos atletas de Badminton da categoria escolar, detectando deficiências que tentam com a obtenção de resultados competitivos superiores.

Abstract The practice of badminton since its beginnings in the high performance in the province of Pinar del Río, has managed to maintain a systematic work and with results that guarantee the stay of Pinar del Río athletes in the national elite, mainly in the double and mixed modality, however in the evaluation of the results of the pedagogic-technical tests and evaluations of the pedagogic objectives at national level are currently evaluated from Mal. With the objective of knowing such behavior, a meticulous study was made of the particularities of the technical execution of high hand strikes, which turns out to be the technique most affected according to observations made in training sessions and development of competencies. The research was developed in the seven athletes of the school category of the EIDE "Ormani Arenado Llorch" from Pinar del Río. Through the interview and the observation as scientific methods, it was possible to verify the level of technical execution of high hand strokes in the badminton athletes of school category, detecting deficiencies that attempt to obtain superior competitive results.

Chimeric Virus-Like Particles and Capsomeres Induce Similar CD8+ T Cell Responses but Differ in Capacity to Induce CD4+ T Cell Responses and Antibody Responses.

Despite extensive research, the development of an effective malaria vaccine remains elusive. The induction of robust and sustained T cell and antibody response by vaccination is an urgent unmet need. Chimeric virus-like particles (VLPs) are a promising vaccine platform. VLPs are composed of multiple subunit capsomeres which can be rapidly produced in a cost-effective manner, but the ability of capsomeres to induce antigen-specific cellular immune responses has not been thoroughly investigated. Accordingly, we have compared chimeric VLPs and their sub-unit capsomeres for capacity to induce CD8+ and CD4+ T cell and antibody responses. We produced chimeric murine polyomavirus VLPs and capsomeres each incorporating defined CD8+ T cell, CD4+ T cell or B cell repeat epitopes derived from Plasmodium yoelii CSP. VLPs and capsomeres were evaluated using both homologous or heterologous DNA prime/boost immunization regimens for T cell and antibody immunogenicity. Chimeric VLP and capsomere vaccine platforms induced robust CD8+ T cell responses at similar levels which was enhanced by a heterologous DNA prime. The capsomere platform was, however, more efficient at inducing CD4+ T cell responses and less efficient at inducing antigen-specific antibody responses. Our data suggest that capsomeres, which have significant manufacturing advantages over VLPs, should be considered for diseases where a T cell response is the desired outcome.

Prophage exotoxins enhance colonization fitness in epidemic scarlet fever-causing Streptococcus pyogenes.

The re-emergence of scarlet fever poses a new global public health threat. The capacity of North-East Asian serotype M12 (emm12) Streptococcus pyogenes (group A Streptococcus, GAS) to cause scarlet fever has been linked epidemiologically to the presence of novel prophages, including prophage ΦHKU.vir encoding the secreted superantigens SSA and SpeC and the DNase Spd1. Here, we report the molecular characterization of ΦHKU.vir-encoded exotoxins. We demonstrate that streptolysin O (SLO)-induced glutathione efflux from host cellular stores is a previously unappreciated GAS virulence mechanism that promotes SSA release and activity, representing the first description of a thiol-activated bacterial superantigen. Spd1 is required for resistance to neutrophil killing. Investigating single, double and triple isogenic knockout mutants of the ΦHKU.vir-encoded exotoxins, we find that SpeC and Spd1 act synergistically to facilitate nasopharyngeal colonization in a mouse model. These results offer insight into the pathogenesis of scarlet fever-causing GAS mediated by prophage ΦHKU.vir exotoxins.

Endocytosis in the adaptation to cellular stress.

Cellular life is challenged by a multitude of stress conditions, triggered for example by alterations in osmolarity, oxygen or nutrient supply. Hence, cells have developed sophisticated stress responses to cope with these challenges. Some of these stress programs such as the heat shock response are understood in great detail, while other aspects remain largely elusive including potential stress-dependent adaptations of the plasma membrane proteome. The plasma membrane is not only the first point of encounter for many types of environmental stress, but given the diversity of receptor proteins and their associated molecules also represents the site at which many cellular signal cascades originate. Since these signaling pathways affect virtually all aspects of cellular life, changes in the plasma membrane proteome appear ideally suited to contribute to the cellular adaptation to stress. The most rapid means to alter the cell surface proteome in response to stress is by alterations in endocytosis. Changes in the overall endocytic flux or in the endocytic regulation of select proteins conceivably can help to counteract adverse environmental conditions. In this review we summarize recent data regarding stress-induced changes in endocytosis and discuss how these changes might contribute to the cellular adaptation to stress in different systems. Future studies will be needed to uncover the underlying mechanisms in detail and to arrive at a coherent picture.

Vaccine-Induced Th1-Type Response Protects against Invasive Group A Streptococcus Infection in the Absence of Opsonizing Antibodies.

Recent global advocacy efforts have highlighted the importance of development of a vaccine against group A Streptococcus (GAS). Combo5 is a non-M protein-based vaccine that provides protection against GAS skin infection in mice and reduces the severity of pharyngitis in nonhuman primates. However, Combo5 with the addition of aluminum hydroxide (alum) as an adjuvant failed to protect against invasive GAS infection of mice. Here, we show that formulation of Combo5 with adjuvants containing saponin QS21 significantly improves protective efficacy, even though all 7 adjuvants tested generated high antigen-specific IgG antibody titers, including alum. Detailed characterization of Combo5 formulated with SMQ adjuvant, a squalene-in-water emulsion containing a TLR4 agonist and QS21, showed significant differences from the results obtained with alum in IgG subclasses generated following immunization, with an absence of GAS opsonizing antibodies. SMQ, but not alum, generated strong interleukin-6 (IL-6), gamma interferon (IFN-γ), and tumor necrosis alpha (TNF-α) responses. This work highlights the importance of adjuvant selection for non-M protein-based GAS vaccines to optimize immune responses and protective efficacy.IMPORTANCE Availability of a group A Streptococcus vaccine remains an unmet public health need. Here, we tested different adjuvant formulations to improve the protective efficacy of non-M protein vaccine Combo5 in an invasive disease model. We show that novel adjuvants can dramatically shape the type of immune response developed following immunization with Combo5 and significantly improve protection. In addition, protection afforded by Combo5 is not mediated by opsonizing antibodies, believed to be the main correlate of protection against GAS infections. Overall, this report highlights the importance of adjuvant selection in raising protective immune responses against GAS invasive infection. Adjuvants that can provide a more balanced Th1/Th2-type response may be required to optimize protection of GAS vaccines, particularly those based on non-M protein antigens.