Artículos de revista - Aldizkari artikuluak

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Open Access
Cladding influence on the milling of low-stiffness aluminum alloy parts with local clamping
(Publicaciones DYNA, 2025-03-01) Casuso, Mikel; Rubio Mateos, Antonio; Silveira-Fernández, Elena; Veiga Suárez, Fernando; Lamikiz, Aitzol; Ingeniería; Ingeniaritza; Institute of Smart Cities - ISC
The milling of aeronautical skins on flexible and reconfigurable fixtures is a major industrial challenge due both to the low rigidity of the skins and to the configuration of these fixtures, which, although they provide a great versatility of use and are an efficient alternative to pollutant chemical milling, vibrations can easily occur in them that may impair the surface quality, increase the error of the final thickness and cause excessive cutting forces. Aiming to foster the use of flexible fixtures, a study of the natural frequencies and cutting forces obtained when milling thin parts has been carried out, with special emphasis on analyzing the influence of the cladding of aluminum alloy parts.
Open Access
The project book: a toolkit for stakeholder management in international development projects
(Universidad de Zaragoza, 2024-10-24) Romero de Miguel, Aida; Pérez Ezcurdia, Amaya; Gimena Ramos, Faustino; Ingeniería; Ingeniaritza; Sociología y Trabajo Social; Soziologia eta Gizarte Lana
En este artículo, se presenta una metodología de gestión de proyectos de cooperación internacional al desarrollo diseñada para agentes deslocalizados que, sobre una base tradicional de gestión de proyectos (fases y procesos), añade un sistema documental abierto (libro del proyecto) y la aplicación de técnicas de investigación-acción participativa. El libro del proyecto mejora la transparencia y, por tanto, la confianza y el compromiso. Con las técnicas de investigación-acción participativa, se apoya la gestión intercultural de los agentes de los proyectos. La metodología ha sido probada en tres sectores -«salud», «producción» y «educación»-, ejecutados en Colombia. La calidad y el éxito del proyecto tras su aplicación se caracteriza por una aceptación del 80 % de los agentes.
Open Access
Synergic removal of Aflatoxin B1 in oily matrices by focusing on the peroxidase-like nanozymes-driven strategies: mechanisms and intermediate toxicity, nutritional impact, advances and challenges
(Elsevier, 2025-09-01) Faraji, Ali Reza; Gil Bravo, Antonio; Farahanipour, Alireza; Tehrani, Elnaz; Khoramdareh, Niloufar Bakhshi; Dashtabadi, E.; Jafari, Seyede Zeynab; Shojaei, Najmeh; Hekmatian, Zahra; Saeedi, S.; Ciencias; Zientziak; Institute for Advanced Materials and Mathematics - INAMAT2; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa
Background: oilseeds and extracted oils, as the supplier of at least 40 % of calories, dietary essential fatty acids, and food flavor, due to insufficient cultivation-harvesting techniques, processing and long-term storage in improper conditions, and lack of adequate food-safety standards and/or official consideration, are prone to contamination by AFB1. Given its irreversible adverse effects on consumer health and food/feed safety due to various factors (e.g., high chemical stability of lipophilic AFB1, transformation to other toxic derivatives, and chemical interaction with oily matrices), developing a decontamination approach from a safety/efficiency perspective is imperative. Scope and approach: this review provides the recent progress on the AFB1 detoxification from oily matrices by focusing on the peroxidase-based nanozymes technologies and enzymatic-like mechanisms of reactive species in detail for the first time. Significantly, the superiority of enzymatic-like activity in capturing/detoxifying AFB1 from oily matrices, change in nutritional quality, organoleptic profiles, and physicochemical properties of oils, and mechanism of action are highlighted by a comparison with various edible oil remediation systems (i.e., physicochemical, physical, chemical, and biological). Key findings and conclusions: The peroxidase nanozyme-based technologies could be of primary importance in the remediation of AFB1 from oily matrices due to the unique merits of nanozymes (e.g., low-cost, size/surface-dependent properties, excellent efficiency and durability/stability, recoverability, biocompatibility, many capabilities to maintain the nutritional quality, and without require to any pre-treatment). Finally, this review aimed to provide several beneficial insights regarding safety, universality, finance, ecology, rapidity, selectivity, detoxification path, and toxicity/biological nature of transformed products in peroxidase-mimicking nanozyme technologies.
Open Access
CITA GO-ON study: a community based multidomain lifestyle intervention to prevent cognitive decline: protocol design and recruitment process
(Frontiers Media, 2025-06-16) Tainta, Mikel; Ecay-Torres, Mirian; Barandiaran, Myriam; Estanga, Ainara; López, Carolina; Altuna Azkargorta, Miren; Iriondo, Ane; Saldias, Jon; García-Sebastián, Maite; Cañada, Marta; Arriba, Maria de; Reparaz Escudero, Imanol; López Sáez de Asteasu, Mikel; Izquierdo Redín, Mikel; Balluerka, Nekane; Gorostiaga, Arantxa; Ros, Naia; Soroa, Goretti; Domper, Jara; Gayoso, Lucía; Arrizabalaga-López, María; Etxeberria, Usune; Torres, María Inés; Alberdi, Elena; Capetillo-Zarate, Estibaliz; Mateo-Abad, Maider; Vergara, Itziar; Mar, Javier; Martínez-Lage, Pablo; Ciencias de la Salud; Osasun Zientziak
Introduction: Growing research suggests that dementia is a complex disorder with multiple risk factors and causes. The Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER) demonstrated that lifestyle interventions could confer cognitive benefits. Inspired by this, the GOIZ-ZAINDU (GZ) feasibility study adapted the FINGER approach to the Basque context. Building upon the GZ study, the CITA GO-ON trial aims to enhance and expand the evidence supporting dementia prevention through a multidomain intervention of risk factor management and resilience promotion. Methods: It is a two-year, population-based, randomized controlled trial to prevent cognitive decline in adults aged 60–85 years with Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Aging and Dementia (CAIDE) risk score ≥6, no dementia, and belowthan- expected performance on at least one of three cognitive screening tests. Participants are randomized (1:1) to receive either Regular Health Advice (RHA) or a Multidomain Intervention (MD-Int) that encompasses cognitive training, socio-emotional skills, multicomponent physical exercise, nutritional and culinary intervention, and monitoring for cardiovascular risks, pharmacological drug mismanagement, and comorbidities. The primary outcome is the efficacy of the intervention to reduce the risk of cognitive decline measured by the global composite z-score of the modified Neuropsychological Test Battery over two years. The secondary outcomes measure cost-effectiveness, quality of life, and functional abilities. Blood samples and brain imaging will also be collected to evaluate the effects of the intervention on brain structure and plasma biomarkers. Results: Recruitment has been completed with 1051 participants selected (mean age (standard deviation, SD) of 69.65 (6.36), 58,50 % female, and mean CAIDE (SD) of 7.62 (1.427). The final participant is expected to complete the last study visit by the autumn of 2026. Discussion: The CITA GO-ON Study, as a part of the World-Wide FINGERS network, is designed to validate the efficacy of a multidomain lifestyle intervention for dementia prevention and contribute valuable data to inform public health strategies fostering healthy, active aging.
Open Access
Slow ethics in an age of fast technology: the ethical implications of Industry 4.0 for social work
(Routledge, 2025-06-16) Banks, Sarah; Bertotti, Teresa; Forlenza, Daria; Gemara, Netanel; Reimer, Elizabeth; Segal, Michal; Shears, Jane; Sobocan, Ana M.; Strom, Kimberly; Úriz Pemán, María Jesús; Yamaguchi, Mai; Sociología y Trabajo Social; Soziologia eta Gizarte Lana; Institute for Advanced Social Research - ICOMMUNITAS
This paper brings together a range of perspectives on the ethicalimplications for social work of the growing use of digital technologies, big data, artificial intelligence and other features of¿Industry 4.0¿ (the fourth industrial revolution). Drawing on contributions to a workshop co-organised by the Ethics and Social Welfare journal, contributors explore: the nature and importance¿slow ethics¿ in an age of fast technological developments; ethical challenges for social work with the ultra-Orthodox Jewish community, which outlaws digital communications; the empowering effect of online meetings for a young person in Italy; and the possibilities and limitations of using algorithms in mental capacity assessments and in ethical decision-making more broadly. Stimulated by these examples, the concluding discussion considers how to maintain a person-centred approach in social work, being pro-active in developing positive uses and resisting the de-humanising and exclusionary impacts of digital technologies.
Open Access
Synthesis of MOF@aluminum saline slag-based composites for CO2 capture at moderate temperatures
(Elsevier, 2025-09-01) Muñoz Alvear, Helir Joseph; Vicente, Miguel Ángel; Korili, Sophia A.; Gil Bravo, Antonio; Ciencias; Zientziak; Institute for Advanced Materials and Mathematics - INAMAT2; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa; Gobierno de Navarra / Nafarroako Gobernua
Combining metal–organic framework (MOF) materials and aluminum-containing saline slag residues opens a promising research avenue. This approach reduces the environmental impact of aluminum production by integrating industrial waste in the development of advanced materials that adhere to circular economy principles. It also addresses some inherent stability issues observed in pure MOFs. This study is the first to propose the use of this industrial by-product as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly modulator for controlling the phase transition between MIL-96(Al) and MIL-110(Al). For the first time, novel MOFs composites (MOF@RW1*-n; n = 25, 50, 75% waste) and saline slag waste (RW1*)—a by-product of initial aluminum extraction in an acidic medium—were synthesized in situ by preparing the MOF on RW1* via hydrothermal treatment and subsequently tested as CO2 adsorbents at up to 225 ◦C and 80 kPa. The optimized RW1* content in the composite proved critical in determining the formation of specific crystalline structures (MIL-96(Al) or MIL-110(Al)), ultimately yielding hybrid materials with enhanced textural properties and thermal stability.
Open Access
Comparative genomics of native plasmids from plant pathogenic Gammaproteobacteria
(Oxford University Press, 2025-04-01) Urriza Leoz, Miriam; Dimaria, Giulio; Oliveira, Luiz Orlando de; Catara, Vittoria; Murillo Martínez, Jesús; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute for Multidisciplinary Research in Applied Biology - IMAB; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa
Plasmids are key in the evolution and adaptation of plant pathogenic Gammaproteobacteria (PPG), yet their diversity and functional contributions remain underexplored. Here, comparative genomics revealed extensive variation in plasmid size, replicon types, mobility, and genetic content across PPG. Most plasmids are small (< 200 kb), except in Pantoea, exhibiting high coding densities (76% to 78%). Five ancestral replicon types were identifed across multiple orders, indicating vertical descent yet effcient horizontal transfer across taxa, although with limited genetic conservation. Virulence plasmids are widespread (56% to 68%) but differ in virulence gene content across orders: type III effector (T3E) genes are common in Pseudomonas and Xanthomonas, but rare in Enterobacterales and Xylella, aligning with their smaller effector repertoires. Plasmids frequently carry regulatory genes, highlighting their role in bacterial phenotype modulation. Distinct patterns were observed among orders: Enterobacterales plasmids often harbor thiamin biosynthesis operons and transcriptional regulators but lack post-transcriptional regulators, while most Pseudomonas and Xanthomonas plasmids are mobile, enriched in T3E genes, and exhibit high insertion sequence densities, fostering DNA mobility. Resistance to ultraviolet light is common, but not to antimicrobial compounds. These fndings highlight the dynamic role of plasmids in spreading adaptive traits, shaping virulence, and driving the evolution of plant pathogenic bacteria.
Open Access
Investigación pediátrica en España: desafíos y oportunidades
(Elsevier, 2025-07-01) Moreno Galarraga, Laura; García Vera, César; Rivero-Calle, Irene; Martinón-Torres, Federico; Díez López, Ignacio; Cabañas, Fernando; Calvo, Cristina; INVEST-AEP; Ciencias de la Salud; Osasun Zientziak
Introducción: La investigación pediátrica es clave para mejorar el diagnóstico, tratamiento y prevención de las enfermedades pediátricas. A pesar de su importancia, sigue infradotada y subrepresentada frente a la investigación en adultos en España y frente a la investigación pediátrica en otros países. Objetivo: Identificar las principales barreras de la investigación pediátrica en España y proponer estrategias para fortalecer su desarrollo y su integración en el sistema sanitario. Métodos: El grupo de trabajo INVEST-AEP realizó un análisis del estado actual de la investigación pediátrica en España. Se identificaron barreras en financiación, formación, carga asistencial y burocracia, y se proponen estrategias de mejora. Resultados: Las principales barreras incluyen la baja financiación (5% de las ayudas nacionales ISCIII), la escasa formación en investigación (tanto en pregrado como durante la residencia MIR), la elevada carga asistencial sin tiempo protegido para investigar y la escasez de redes colaborativas. La situación es aún más crítica en atención primaria. Actualmente la investigación carece del reconocimiento suficiente en las oposiciones y en la carrera profesional. Se identificaron modelos de éxito, como mejoras en la formación de estudiantes de medicina y residentes, consolidación de redes estructuradas, financiación específica, tiempo protegido para la investigación, centralización de los comités de ética y reconocimiento de la investigación en concursos y oposiciones. Conclusiones: Es urgente implementar estrategias para fortalecer la investigación pediátrica en España que incluyan mayor inversión, programas formativos y redes colaborativas. El pediatra debe integrar asistencia, docencia e investigación. Pediatras, instituciones, universidades y gobiernos deben impulsar la investigación pediátrica para mejorar la salud infantil y posicionar a España como referente.
Open Access
Modeling and optimal sizing of thyristor rectifiers for high-power hydrogen electrolyzers
(IEEE, 2025-05-01) Iribarren Zabalegui, Álvaro; Barrios Rípodas, Ernesto; Sanchis Gúrpide, Pablo; Ursúa Rubio, Alfredo; Ingeniería Eléctrica, Electrónica y de Comunicación; Ingeniaritza Elektrikoa, Elektronikoa eta Telekomunikazio Ingeniaritza; Institute of Smart Cities - ISC; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa
Thyristor rectifiers are currently the most common solution for supplying high-power electrolyzers. These rectifiers typically include a dc inductance, which significantly increases system costs. However, this inductance can be avoided by relying solely on ac-side inductances, required for grid current harmonic filtering, although this approach introduces specific challenges. Traditional analytical models of thyristor rectifiers are unable to determine the electrolyzer operating point for a given firing angle and may lead to incorrect system sizing, ultimately preventing the converter from delivering nominal power. This limitation arises from the fact that existing models are formulated for inductive or constant-current loads, whereas electrolyzers exhibit electrical behavior closer to constant-voltage loads. In this paper, a novel analytical model of 6- and 12-pulse thyristor rectifiers with constant-voltage load is developed. The model enables the analysis and optimal sizing of thyristor rectifiers directly connected to electrolyzers without a dc-side inductance. Its accuracy has been validated through both simulations and experimentally using a laboratory-scale prototype. Furthermore, the model has been applied to optimally size a 12-pulse rectifier supplying a 5.5 MW electrolyzer, demonstrating its suitability for the design of thyristor rectifier systems in industrial-scale electrolysis applications and highlighting its advantages over traditional approaches.
Open Access
Comparación de pacientes reales y estandarizados en el Grado de Medicina: un estudio de intervención aleatorizado y controlado
(Elsevier, 2025-06-01) Díez, Nieves; Franchez, B.; Rodríguez Díez, María Cristina; Vidaurreta, Marta; Betés, Maite Teresa; Fernández, Secundino; Palacio, P.; Pueyo, Francisco Javier Olivera; Martín Calvo, Nerea; Ciencias de la Salud; Osasun Zientziak; Institute of Smart Cities - ISC
Introducción: Los escenarios clínicos simulados permiten a los estudiantes aprender en un entorno seguro. Aunque se recomienda la participación de pacientes estandarizados (PE) en estos escenarios, existen pocos estudios que comparen el impacto en la educación médica entre PE y pacientes reales (PR). Métodos: Se seleccionaron 40 estudiantes de medicina por curso (4.º, 5.º y 6.º) y se asignaron aleatoriamente (1:1) a dos grupos: escenario con PR o con PE. Los estudiantes y el observador externo desconocían el tipo de paciente que participaba en el escenario. Los estudiantes completaron cuestionarios de sensaciones y conocimientos, y los profesores responsables y el observador externo, cuestionarios de sensaciones. La información cualitativa se recogió mediante grupos focales con los estudiantes. Resultados: No se encontraron diferencias significativas entre ambos grupos en las sensaciones percibidas ni en los conocimientos adquiridos, pero sí en la probabilidad de identificar correctamente el tipo de paciente (p < 0,001). La mayoría de los estudiantes del escenario con PE lo identificaron como PR. Tampoco se encontraron diferencias entre grupos, en los cuestionarios completados por profesores y observador externo. Los estudiantes se preparan e involucran más si creen estar ante un PR y consideran que el feedback del paciente es enriquecedor, independientemente del tipo de paciente. Conclusiones: Los estudiantes de medicina no diferencian a los PE de los PR en los escenarios, y los evalúan de manera similar. Ante la dificultad de disponer de PR con diversas patologías y niveles de gravedad, el PE es una buena alternativa para la formación de los estudiantes de medicina.
Open Access
Clinical outcomes of out-of-office versus in-office blood pressure monitoring in adults with hypertension
(Wiley, 2025-05-06) Roncal Belzunce, Victoria; Ramón Espinoza, Fernanda; Gutiérrez Valencia, Marta; Leache, Leire; Saiz Fernández, Luis Carlos; Erviti López, Juan; Ciencias de la Salud; Osasun Zientziak
This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (intervention). The objectives are as follows: to assess the effects of out-of-office compared to in-office blood pressure (BP) monitoring for improving clinical outcomes in adults with hypertension.
Open Access
Single-pixel compressive terahertz 3D imaging
(IEEE, 2025-04-24) Ndagijimana, Adolphe; Ederra Urzainqui, Íñigo; Heredia Conde, Miguel; Ingeniería Eléctrica, Electrónica y de Comunicación; Ingeniaritza Elektrikoa, Elektronikoa eta Telekomunikazio Ingeniaritza; Institute of Smart Cities - ISC
Terahertz (THz) imaging contends with the lack of cost-effective, off-the-shelf high-resolution array detectors and the slow acquisition speeds associated with pixel-by-pixel raster scanning. Single-pixel imaging with Compressive Sensing (CS) represents a potential solution for resolution and acquisition speed in a cost-efficient manner. Our paper introduces a novel approach for extending 2D single-pixel THz imaging systems to 3D using a single frequency. By leveraging the single-pixel approach, we achieve 3D resolution while avoiding mechanical scanning, and the use of a single frequency eliminates the need for bandwidth, a significant limitation of conventional techniques, where design of THz sources and detectors with large bandwidth remains challenging and typically complex. The Order Recursive Matching Pursuit (ORMP) algorithm is used as the sparse recovery method to exploit the sparsity/compressibility of the 3D THz signal and enable sampling at a rate far lower than that required by the Nyquist Theorem. The 2D sensing matrix is obtained by analyzing the diffracted propagation of THz imaging systems on a 2D surface perpendicular to the optical axis. Moreover, the 3D sensing matrix is based on the diffracted propagation of 2D surfaces at different sampling depth positions. Our system can quickly capture the reflective properties of every point in a 3D space using a single-pixel camera setup that leverages CS, making it a simple and efficient method for creating a fast 3D THz imaging system, particularly suited to high-frequency THz sources that operate efficiently at a single frequency or at small bandwidth.
Open Access
Gastrosquisis simple complicada con múltiples perforaciones, abdomen congelado y pérdida de dominio abdominal
(Gobierno de Navarra, 2025-02-13) Cayetano Cabrera, Diana Alondra; Zalles Vidal, Cristian; Peñarrieta Daher, Alejandro Alberto; Moreno Alfonso, Julio César; Bautista Jiménez, Katherine; Meléndez Roque, María Lourdes; Ciencias de la Salud; Osasun Zientziak
La gastrosquisis es una malformación congénita caracterizada por una hernia visceral que representa una de las principales causas de síndrome de intestino corto de las series pediátricas. Puede ser secundaria a intestino corto congénito, pero también derivarse de complicaciones asociadas al manejo del defecto de pared abdominal. Presentamos el caso de un recién nacido a término con gastrosquisis simple que presentó múltiples complicaciones gastrointestinales adquiridas durante el manejo inicial. Ingresó en nuestra institución con abdomen abierto, congelado, con fístulas entero-atmosféricas y pérdida de dominio abdominal. Durante tres meses se emplearon distintas técnicas combinadas (suturas primarias intestinales, yeyunostomías con realimentación del estoma distal, toxina botulínica, construcción de silo de polipropileno) en respuesta a la aparición de complicaciones hasta la reconstrucción abdominal total. Tras una evolución favorable, el paciente fue dado de alta a los cinco meses de vida, con tolerancia oral y ganancia pondoestatural adecuada.
Open Access
Cavity-stacked filter in CLAF-SIW technology for millimeter waves
(Elsevier, 2025-03-01) Segura-Gómez, Cleofás; Biedma-Pérez, Andrés; Santiago Arriazu, David; Palomares-Caballero, Ángel; Arregui Padilla, Iván; Gómez Laso, Miguel Ángel; Padilla, Pablo; Ingeniería Eléctrica, Electrónica y de Comunicación; Ingeniaritza Elektrikoa, Elektronikoa eta Telekomunikazio Ingeniaritza; Institute of Smart Cities - ISC
This work presents the design of a cavity-stacked bandpass filter (BPF) using contactless air-filled substrate integrated waveguide (CLAF-SIW) technology for millimeter-wave frequencies. This technology is a variant of air-filled SIW technology, incorporating contactless techniques. It enables the reduction of dielectric losses in SIW filters while supporting multilayer structures with robust assembly. The cavity-stacked filter topology allows for very good frequency responses with a reduced footprint and no transitions needed. As an example, a 4th-order Chebyshev bandpass filter composed of four stacked cavities, coupled through irises, is shown. The iris layers are fabricated by metallizing the slot edges of a PCB, while the cavity layers are implemented using CLAF-SIW. The filter has been designed and manufactured to provide a passband response from 36 GHz to 37.5 GHz. A good agreement between measurement and simulation has been achieved. The losses in the proposed CLAF-SIW filter are primarily due to the metal roughness of the low-cost commercial laminates used.
Unknown
Chemerin is a new sex-specific target in aortic stenosis concomitant with diabetes regulated by the aldosterone/mineralocorticoid receptor axis
(American Physiological Society, 2025-01-20) Goñi Olóriz, Miriam; Garaikoetxea Zubillaga, Mattie; San Ildefonso-García, Susana; Fernández Celis, Amaya; Castillo, Paula; Navarro, Adela; Álvarez, Virginia ; Sádaba Sagredo, Rafael; Jover, Eva; Martín Núñez, Ernesto; López Andrés, Natalia; Ciencias de la Salud; Osasun Zientziak; Gobierno de Navarra / Nafarroako Gobernua
Diabetes mellitus (DM) increases the risk of aortic stenosis (AS) and worsens its pathophysiology in a sex-specific manner. Aldosterone/mineralocorticoid receptor (Aldo/MR) pathway participates in the early stages of AS and in other diabetic-related cardiovascular complications. We aim to identify new sex-specific Aldo/MR targets in AS complicated with DM. We performed discovery studies using Olink Proteomics technology in 87 AS patient-derived aortic valves (AVs) (N ¼ 28 and N ¼ 19 nondiabetic and diabetic men; N ¼ 32 and N ¼ 8 nondiabetic and diabetic women, respectively) and human cytokine array (N ¼ 24 AVs/sex/condition). Both approaches revealed chemerin as a target differentially upregulated in AVs from male diabetic patients, further validated in a cohort of stenotic AVs (N ¼ 283, 27.6% DM, 59.4% men). Valvular chemerin levels are directly correlated with valve interstitial cell (VIC) activation, MR, inflammation, angiogenesis, and calcification markers exclusively in diabetic men. In vitro, Aldo (10-8 M) treatment exclusively increased chemerin levels in valve interstitial cells (VICs) from male patients with DM. Aldo also upregulated inflammatory, angiogenic, and osteogenic markers in DM and non-DM donors¿ VICs, which were prevented by MR antagonism. Increased glucose levels in cell media upregulated chemerin in VICs from male diabetic patients. Overall, RARRES2-knockdown in male diabetic VICs resulted in the downregulation of inflammatory, angiogenic, and osteogenic markers and blocked Aldo-induced responses in high glucose conditions. These data suggest the Aldo/MR pathway selectively increases chemerin in VICs from diabetic men, promoting inflammation, angiogenesis, and calcification associated with AS progression.
Open Access
The Pearcey integral in the highly oscillatory region II
(Elsevier, 2025-08-01) Ferreira González, Chelo; López García, José Luis; Pérez Sinusía, Ester; Estadística, Informática y Matemáticas; Estatistika, Informatika eta Matematika; Institute for Advanced Materials and Mathematics - INAMAT2
We consider the Pearcey integral P(x, y) for large values of |x| and bounded values of |y|. The standard saddle point analysis is difficult to apply because the Pearcey integral is highly oscillating in this region. To overcome this problem we use the modified saddle point method introduced in López et al. (2009). A complete asymptotic analysis is possible with this method, and we derive a complete asymptotic expansion of P(x, y) for large |x|, accompanied by the exact location of the Stokes lines. There are two Stokes lines that divide the complex x−plane in two different sectors in which P(x, y) behaves differently when |x| is large. The asymptotic approximation is the sum of two asymptotic series whose terms are elementary functions of x and y. Both of them are of Poincaré type; one of them is given in terms of inverse powers of x; the other one in terms of inverse powers of x 1/2 , and it is multiplied by an exponential factor that behaves differently in the two mentioned sectors. Some numerical experiments illustrate the accuracy of the approximation.
Open Access
Building a pan-European network to bridge gaps in geriatric medicine education: the PROGRAMMING COST Action 21,122-a call for endorsement
(Springer, 2025-04-01) Duque, Sofía; Piotrowicz, Karolina; Masud, Tahir; Wissendorff Ekdahl, Anne; Herghelegiu, Anna Marie; Pavic, Tajana; Kravvariti, Evrydiki; Bogdanović, Nenad; Bonin-Guillaume, Sylvie; Martínez Velilla, Nicolás; Roller Wirnsberger, Regina; Vassallo, Michael; Kossioni, Anastassia; Frost, Rachael; Macijauskiene, Jurate; Koca, Meltem; Benetos, Athanase; Petrovic, Mirko ; Kotsani, Marina; Ciencias de la Salud; Osasun Zientziak
Background: The growing challenges of population aging create a pressing need for specialized geriatric medicine services to effectively address the complex health needs of older adults and influence supportive healthcare policies. Older patients may present clinical complexity with multimorbidity, disability, and/or frailty, necessitating a shift from the traditional organ-oriented clinical approach to a holistic, patient-centered care model. Rationale of the action: Despite recommendations from the World Health Organization and scientific and professional societies, geriatric medicine is not universally recognized as a distinct specialty in Europe, and education in this field remains heterogeneous. A notable discrepancy in the availability of geriatric services and education in this field across European countries can be found. Many healthcare professionals lack basic training in geriatric medicine, contributing to fragmented care and poorer health outcomes. To address these challenges, it is essential to integrate geriatric medicine into undergraduate and postgraduate curricula for all healthcare professionals. Expected outcomes: The COST Action 21,122 PROGRAMMING (PROmoting GeRiAtric Medicine in countries where it is still eMergING) initiative aims to promote geriatric medicine by developing targeted educational goals and programs and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. This initiative aims to assess the current state of geriatric medicine education and identify both global and local educational needs for developing clinical skills among healthcare professionals. In addition, it seeks to establish consensus on core curricula tailored to local contexts and disseminate findings and recommendations to stakeholders, policymakers, and the public. By uniting diverse stakeholders, PROGRAMMING aspires to create sustainable changes in geriatric care across Europe.
Open Access
Introducing the Trigemino-Vocal Reflex: new insights to assess brainstem connectivity under general anesthesia
(Elsevier, 2025-07-01) Urriza Mena, Francisco Javier; Fernandez-Conejero, Isabel ; Seidel, Kathleen ; Ulkatan, Sedat ; Ciencias de la Salud; Osasun Zientziak; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa
Objective: This descriptive study aims to provide evidence of a newly described reflex, the Trigemino-Vocal Reflex (TVcR). It confirms the functional connectivity between trigeminal and vagal systems in humans under anesthesia. Methods: We stimulated the mental branch of the trigeminal nerve at the mandibular foramen in 47 patients undergoing different surgeries and recorded vocal cord muscle responses. Stimulation consisted of either a single electrical pulse or a train of 2–4 pulses, based on anesthesia depth. The recording was made by using an adhesive tube electrode. Results: A bilateral response was observed in 41 patients, while 2 showed only a unilateral response. All 43 exhibited an early potential (R1) with a latency of about 30 ms, and 24 also displayed a late potential (R2) with a latency of around 65 ms. Conclusions: We demonstrate the potential to record the newly described TVcR, recording vagal motor responses in the vocal cords following stimulation of the trigeminal nerve at the mandibular foramen in anesthetized patients. Significance: We introduce a newly described reflex that may be valuable in intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring and could enhance our understanding of brainstem physiology.
Open Access
Preservation of milk in liquid nitrogen during sample collection does not affect the RNA quality for RNA-seq analysis
(BMC, 2025-05-24) Jiménez Montenegro, Lucía; Alfonso Ruiz, Leopoldo; Soret Lafraya, Beatriz; Mendizábal Aizpuru, José Antonio; Urrutia Vera, Olaia; Agronomía, Biotecnología y Alimentación; Agronomia, Bioteknologia eta Elikadura; Institute on Innovation and Sustainable Development in Food Chain - ISFOOD; Universidad Pública de Navarra / Nafarroako Unibertsitate Publikoa; Gobierno de Navarra / Nafarroako Gobernua
Background. Standard procedures for milk sample collection for transcriptome analysis use ice as preservation method, which can afect the RNA stability and requires immediate sample processing. These problems would be eased if the milk samples could be snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen. This study describes the applicability of a new method for milk sample collection and subsequent RNA extraction from milk fat globules, determining whether the quality, integrity and quantity of the RNA extracts met the minimum requirements for downstream RNA-seq. Results. The quality of the extracts measured by A260/280 ratio and the Integrity and Quality (IQ) values obtained fulflled the reference values of 1.9 - 2.1 (P10.05) and failed to meet the RIN≥7 benchmark for RNA-seq (P>0.05). Milk fat globules contain low molecular-weight RNA fragments and minimal 18S and 28S rRNA, suggesting low RIN values were inherent to sample type. Likewise, the RNA concentration from milk fat globules were generally low (120.43±22.27 ng/µL, 102.87±15.64 ng/µL and 109.43±22.69 ng/µL, measured by Nanodrop, Qubit HS and QuanTI Ribogreen, respectively). Nevertheless, RNA-seq yielded 52.7 million paired-end reads per sample. The raw reads passed all quality control parameters having the same sequence-read lengths (151 bp), 100% base-coverage, 49% GC base content, and base quality scores of 36, enabling successful transcriptome profling. Moreover, milk proteins were identifed as the most abundant transcripts in MFG in the analysis of the most expressed genes, indicating that the sequenced reads would accurately refect the transcriptome of this milk fraction. Conclusions. Milk preservation in liquid nitrogen is a suitable sample collection method that overcomes the limitations of immediate sample processing required if ice is used. Thus, this procedure, together with the subsequent RNA isolation from milk fat globules and its sequencing by RNA-seq, would provide a practical and a non-invasive method for measuring the mammary epithelial cell transcriptome, improving the feasibility of conducting studies related to mammary gland and lactation physiology.
Open Access
Mediation of obesity-related variables in the association between physical fitness and cardiometabolic risk in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis
(BMJ, 2025-04-03) Castro Silveira, João Francisco de; López Gil, José Francisco; Reuter, Cézane Priscila; Sehn, Ana Paula; Borfe, Letícia; Carvas Junior, Nelson; Pfeiffer, Karin Allor; Guerra, Paulo Henrique; Andersen, Lars Bo; García Hermoso, Antonio; Gaya, Anelise; Ciencias de la Salud; Osasun Zientziak
Objective. To examine the mediation of obesity-related variables in the association between physical fitness and cardiometabolic risk in children and adolescents. Design. Systematic review and meta-analysis. Data sources. Studies from electronic databases from inception to 31 December 2023. Eligibility criteria for selecting studies. Included were 123 observational studies (cross-sectional and longitudinal) that assessed risk by constructing a continuous score incorporating cardiometabolic parameters. Studies were considered if they evaluated at least one fitness component as an exposure in children and adolescents (5–19 years). Thirty-one were included in the main meta-analyses. Results. Cross-sectional findings indicate that cardiorespiratory fitness is modestly but beneficially associated with cardiometabolic risk, either indirectly via obesity-related variables (indirect standardized beta coefficient [βIndirect]=−0.17; 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.23; −0.11; inconsistency index [I2]=94.4%) or directly and independently from obesity-related variables (r=−0.11; 95% CI −0.15; −0.07; I2=87.4%), whereas muscular fitness seems to be associated with risk only via obesity-related variables (βIndirect=−0.34; 95% CI −0.47; −0.20; I2=85.1%). There was no cross-sectional difference between biological sexes (p≥0.199). Longitudinal findings indicate no total (r=−0.12; 95% CI −0.24; 0.01; I2=23.1%) and direct (r=−0.03; 95% CI −0.08; 0.03; I2=0%) associations. Conclusion. The association between fitness and risk appears to take place either indirectly through the reduction of obesity-related levels or directly by influencing risk. The latter underscores that the inverse association extends beyond a mere reduction in obesity-related variables, encompassing specific enhancements linked to exercise training, including increased metabolic efficiency, and cardiovascular capacity. PROSPERO registration number. CRD42022354628.