Discovering the fish fauna of a lagoon from the southeast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, using DNA barcodes.

Background: Aquatic ecosystems in the tropics are typically environments with a high species richness of fishes. These systems are also among the most vulnerable in the world, threatening the overall biodiversity of tropical regions. As a first step, it is important to enumerate the species in any ecosystem to promote its conservation. This study aims to inventory the ichthyofauna in the Chile Verde Lagoon, Quintana Roo, on the Yucatan Peninsula, a system fortunately well protected in Mexico, based on faunal surveys backed up with mtDNA barcodes. Methods: We collected larvae, juveniles, and adults of fishes in the lagoon with a variety of sampling gear targeting various life stages. Species were identified using both morphology and DNA barcodes. The abundance of species and ichthyoplankton biomass (wet weight, suction technique) were calculated from 43 samples. Results: We collected 197 adult and juvenile fishes and 3,722 larvae, of which 306 specimens were DNA-sequenced with a success rate of 96.7%. We identified 13 families, 24 genera, and 27 species in our inventory. The species number was estimated to comprise 75% of the potential total richness using the Chao 1 richness estimator. Clupeids and gobiids accounted for 87.9% of the total abundance of fishes, and, together with cyprinodontids, also accounted for the highest ichthyoplankton biomass. Conclusion: Adult and juvenile fishes were identified by morphology and meristic values, however larvae required DNA barcoding to identify species. The high biomass and abundance of larvae of clupeids, gobiids and cyprinodontids suggests that the Chile Verde Lagoon may be important for reproduction of these species in the region. Microgobius microlepis, a marine goby species, is reported for the first time in an inland oligohaline system. This study provides a basis for future environmental assessment and biomonitoring of the Chile Verde Lagoon in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.

Taxonomic insights into Panopeuslacustris Desbonne (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura) based on morphological and molecular data.

The genus Panopeus belongs to the family Panopeidae and comprises a group of brachyuran crabs native to the American continent (except for P.africanus). However, taxonomic problems related to the presence of cryptic species have made it difficult to recognize the species and advance the biological knowledge of this group. Herein, a detailed description based on morphological and molecular data is provided for the species P.lacustris for the first time. Additionally, new morphological characters are proposed for the discrimination of the species. It is strongly suggested to increase the knowledge of the gene pool of the group, explore new morphological characters, and update the species descriptions to advance the group's knowledge. This proposal will serve as a reference for future studies aimed at clarifying the taxonomic, conservation and ecological status of the species of Panopeus.

Generation of host-directed and virus-specific antivirals using targeted protein degradation promoted by small molecules and viral RNA mimics.

Targeted protein degradation (TPD), as exemplified by proteolysis-targeting chimera (PROTAC), is an emerging drug discovery platform. PROTAC molecules, which typically contain a target protein ligand linked to an E3 ligase ligand, recruit a target protein to the E3 ligase to induce its ubiquitination and degradation. Here, we applied PROTAC approaches to develop broad-spectrum antivirals targeting key host factors for many viruses and virus-specific antivirals targeting unique viral proteins. For host-directed antivirals, we identified a small-molecule degrader, FM-74-103, that elicits selective degradation of human GSPT1, a translation termination factor. FM-74-103-mediated GSPT1 degradation inhibits both RNA and DNA viruses. Among virus-specific antivirals, we developed viral RNA oligonucleotide-based bifunctional molecules (Destroyers). As a proof of principle, RNA mimics of viral promoter sequences were used as heterobifunctional molecules to recruit and target influenza viral polymerase for degradation. This work highlights the broad utility of TPD to rationally design and develop next-generation antivirals.

Breathing-induced forces influence lung cell fate.

Respiration exerts a mechanical strain on the lungs, which has an unclear effect on epithelial cell fate. Now in Cell, Shiraishi et al.1 reveal the crucial role of mechanotransduction in maintaining lung epithelial cell fate, representing a significant milestone in understanding how mechanical factors regulate differentiation.

Effect of Cadmium on Macro and Micronutrient Uptake and Translocation by Leucaena leucocephala.

Environmental contamination with Cadmium (Cd) is of great concern due to its hazardous effects on living organisms.Query In the present research, Leucaena leucocephala plants were exposed to Cd concentrations of 5, 10, and 15 mg/L to determine their potential use in Cd remediation. Different parameters including Cd uptake, macro/micronutrient content, chlorophyl, and catalase production were determined. Results indicated that Cd uptake by L. leucocephala roots did not show a significant difference between treatments. However, a significant increase in Cd content (Tukey´s HSD) was observed in stems as Cd levels in the media augmented. The highest Cd content (830 ± 20 mg/kg) was determined in stems of plants exposed to 15 mg/L Cd, and no Cd was detected in leaves. Data showed that as Cd concentration increased in the media, Ca, Mg, K, Zn, and Mn decreased. Moreover, while the presence of Cd reduced catalase activity in roots, chlorophyll production was not affected.

Gamification in the microbiology classroom for biology students during the COVID-19 pandemic / Gamificación en el aula de microbiología para estudiantes de Biologia durante la pandemia COVID-19 / Gamificação na sala de aula de microbiologia para estudantes de biologia durante a pandemia da COVID-19

ABSTRACT Gamification is an underdeveloped didactic method in the microbiology classroom, mainly due to teachers' limited experience with ICT. However, it can positively influence learning, especially in virtual environments such as those established by the COVID-19 pandemic. This work aimed to analyze the effects of gamification applied to microbiology classes in Biology students in blended and online modalities under the current context. A focus group of students, who experienced the didactics of gamification, Problem-Based Learning, and Project-Based Learning, was surveyed to determine the effects of these methods on its learning. Teachers and graduates also approached gamification, and their responses were analyzed. Students considered that gamification contributed to their engagement in the learning process, increasing the interest in classroom activities. The results also indicated that the three didactic approaches complemented each other and can be integrated into the face-to-face curriculum. Evidence denoted that gamification can indeed enhance cognitive, metacognitive, praxeological, and attitudinal skills, thereby bettering the learning experience.

RESUMEN La gamificación es un método didáctico poco desarrollado en el aula de microbiología debido principalmente al bajo dominio de herramientas TIC en los docentes. Sin embargo, puede tener efectos positivos en el aprendizaje, especialmente en entornos virtuales como los establecidos obligatoriamente por la pandemia COVID-19. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar los efectos de la gamificación aplicada al aprendizaje de las clases de microbiología en estudiantes de Biología en modalidad de alternancia y virtual bajo el contexto actual. Se encuestó a un grupo focal de estudiantes, quienes experimentaron las didácticas de gamificación, Aprendizaje Basado en Problemas y Aprendizaje Basado en Proyectos, para determinar los efectos sobre su aprendizaje. Docentes y egresados también fueron usuarios de la gamificación, y sus respuestas analizadas. Los estudiantes consideraron que la gamificación contribuyó con su proceso de aprendizaje al ayudar a potenciar su interés por las actividades de clase. Los resultados también indicaron que las didácticas son complementarias e incorporables en el curriculum presencial. La evidencia probó que la gamificación puede mejorar el desarrollo de habilidades cognitivas, metacognitivas, praxeológicas y actitudinales, además de mejorar la experiencia de aprendizaje.

RESUMO A gamificação é um método didático pouco desenvolvido na sala de aula de microbiologia, principalmente devido ao baixo domínio das ferramentas TIC pelos professores. No entanto, pode ter efeitos positivos na aprendizagem, especialmente em ambientes virtuais como os exigidos pela pandemia COVID-19. O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar os efeitos da gamificação aplicada à aprendizagem das classes da microbiologia em alunos de Biologia na modalidade semipresencial e virtual no contexto atual. Um grupo focal de alunos, que experimentou as didáticas da gamificação, Aprendizagem Baseada em Problemas e Aprendizagem Baseada em Projetos, foi entrevistado para determinar os efeitos em sua aprendizagem. Professores e graduados também foram usuários da gamificação e suas respostas analisadas. Os alunos consideraram que a gamificação contribuiu em seu processo de aprendizagem, ajudando a aumentar seu interesse nas atividades de aula. Os resultados também indicaram que as didáticas são complementares e podem ser incorporadas no curriculum presencial. As evidéncias mostraram que a gamificação pode aprimorar o desenvolvimento de habilidades cognitivas, metacognitivas, praxeológicas e atitudinais, além de aprimorar a experiéncia de aprendizagem.

Tendencias en la investigación sobre las prácticas profesionales en educación superior: revisión sistemática desde la Psicología Organizacional y del Trabajo -POT / Trends in research about professional practices in higher education: systematic review from Organizational and Work Psychology -POT / Tendências em pesquisa sobre estágio profissional no educação superior: revisão sistemática a partir da Psicologia Organizacional e do Trabalho -POT

Resumen Objetivo: Identificar y caracterizar las tendencias en investigación sobre las prácticas profesionales para contribuir al debate académico con relación a los problemas relevantes y actuales asociados a su desarrollo y como estrategia para la inserción laboral. Método: El siguiente artículo presenta una revisión sistemática de alcance descriptivo donde se buscaron publicaciones entre los años 2000 a 2020, relacionadas con el tema de prácticas profesionales, en las bases de datos Redalyc, Scielo y Dialnet. Inicialmente del total de 308 estudios obtenidos se procedió a filtrar por su pertinencia y relevancia, se obtuvieron finalmente 64 artículos empíricos, sistematizados y abordados desde el análisis temático. Resultados: Se encontró con relación a las competencias (21 %) y la formación profesional (11 %) como más recurrentes, seguido de la identidad (5 %), percepción (5 %), vinculación universidad-empresa (5 %), significados (3 %), experiencias, empleabilidad (2 %), contextos (2 %), representaciones (5 %), condiciones laborales (2 %), salud mental (2 %), precarización (2 %), y finalmente, de menor recurrencia, memoria colectiva (1 %), currículo (1 %), bioética (1 %), agrupadas en 4 tendencias. Respecto a los diseños metodológicos, se encontró de mayor aplicación los cuantitativos (45 %), seguido de los cualitativos (39 %) y los mixtos (16 %). Conclusiones: La identificación, caracterización y análisis de lo que se ha investigado sobre el tema de las prácticas profesionales, permitió reconocer las tendencias surgidas en los estudios, el reconocimiento de los cuestionamientos de la relación entre la formación y aplicación profesional, como abordaje investigativo futuro para la Psicología organizacional y del trabajo, en un contexto de las transformaciones que ha tenido el mundo del trabajo y el impacto de este mismo en las prácticas profesionales como mecanismo para la inserción laboral.

Abstract Objective: Identify and characterize the trends in research on internships in order to contribute to the academic debate regarding relevant and current problems associated with their development and as a strategy for labor market insertion. Method: The following article presents a systematic review of descriptive scope where we searched for publications between 2000 and 2020, related to the subject of professional practices, in the databases Redalyc, Scielo and Dialnet. Initially, of the total of 308 studies obtained, 64 empirical articles, systematized and approached from the thematic analysis, were filtered for their pertinence and relevance. Results: The following topics were found to be the most recurrent: competencies (21 %) and professional training (11 %), followed by identity (5 %), perception (5 %), university-business linkage (5 %), meanings (3 %), experiences, employability (2 %), contexts (2 %), representations (5 %), working conditions (2 %), mental health (2 %), precariousness (2 %), and finally, less frequently, collective memory (1 %), curriculum (1 %), bioethics (1 %), grouped in 4 tendencies. Regarding methodological designs, quantitative designs (45 %) were found to be more applicable, followed by qualitative (39 %) and mixed (16 %). Conclusions: The identification, characterization, and analysis of what has been researched on the subject of internships, allowed the recognition of the trends that have emerged in the studies, the recognition of the questions on the relationship between formation and professional application, as a future research approach for Organizational and Work Psychology, in a context of transformations in the world of work and its impact on the internship as a mechanism of labor insertion.

Resumo Objetivo: Identificar e caracterizar as tendências na pesquisa sobre estágios profissionais, a fim de contribuir para o debate acadêmico em relação aos problemas relevantes e atuais associados ao seu desenvolvimento e como estratégia de inserção laboral no mercado de trabalho Métodos: O artigo seguinte apresenta uma revisão sistemática do escopo descritivo onde as publicações entre os anos 2000 a 2020, relacionadas ao tema sobre estágios profissionais, foram pesquisadas nas bases de dados Redalyc, Scielo e Dialnet. Inicialmente, do total de 308 estudos obtidos, procedemos à filtragem por sua relevância e, finalmente, 64 artigos empíricos foram obtidos, sistematizados e abordados a partir da análise temática. Resultados: Foi encontrado em relação aos temas: competências (21 %) e formação profissional (11 %) como os mais recorrentes, seguidos pela identidade (5 %), percepção (5 %), vinculação universidade-empresa (5 %), significados (3 %), experiências, empregabilidade (2 %), contextos (2 %), representações (5 %), condições de trabalho (2 %), saúde mental (2 %), precariedade (2 %) e, finalmente, de menor recorrência, memória coletiva (1 %), currículo (1 %), bioética (1 %), agrupados em 4 tendências. Quanto aos desenhos metodológicos, quantitativos (45 %), seguidos pelos qualitativos (39 %) e mistos (16 %). Conclusões: A identificação, caracterização e análise do que foi pesquisado sobre o tema do estágios profissionais, permitiu o reconhecimento das tendências que surgiram nos estudos, o reconhecimento do questionamento da relação entre treinamento e aplicação profissional, como uma abordagem de pesquisa futura para a Psicologia Organizacional e do Trabalho, em um contexto de transformações no mundo do trabalho e seu impacto no processo de práticas como mecanismo de inserção laboral.

The genetic and morphological diversity of Haemogregarina infecting turtles in Colombia: Are mitochondrial markers useful as barcodes for these parasites?

Adeleorinid parasites commonly infect turtles and tortoises in nature. Currently, our knowledge about such parasites is extremely poor. Their characterization is based on morphological and molecular approaches using the 18S rDNA molecular marker. However, there is a limitation with the 18S rDNA due to its slow rate of evolution. For that reason, the goals of this study were to 1) design primers for new molecular mitochondrial markers to improve the phylogenetic reconstructions of adeleorinid parasites and 2) to determine the morphological and genetic diversity of Haemogregarina infecting turtles and tortoises in Colombia. Turtles from 16 species representing six families were examined for the presence of haemoparasites. We analyzed 457 samples using PCR, and 203 of them were also analyzed by microscopy. Using a mitochondrial genome of Haemogregarina sequenced in this study, we designed primers to amplify fragments of the cytochrome oxidase I (coxI), cytochrome oxidase III (coxIII), and cytochrome b (cytb) mitochondrial markers in adeleorinid parasites. Lineages obtained from nuclear and mitochondrial molecular markers clustered according to the turtle lineages from which they were isolated. It is noteworthy that we found different evolutionary lineages within the same morphotype, which may indicate heteroplasmy and/or cryptic diversity in Haemogregarina. Due to this situation, we could not make a species delimitation, even when integrating the different lines of evidence we had in this study. However, the primers presented here are useful for diagnosis and, moreover, according to the available information, all three genes retain phylogenetic signals; thereby fragments amplified can be used in reconstructing evolutionary relationships. This effort contributes to the knowledge of the diversity of these parasites infecting continental turtles from Colombia.

Validación del Cuestionario de Actitudes Socioculturales sobre la Apariencia (SATAQ-4) en población colombiana / Validation of the Sociocultural Attitudes Questionnaire on Appearance (SATAQ-4) in the Colombian population

Resumen El deseo de cumplir estándares modernos estéticos corporales no alcanzables afecta la salud mental, debido a que las personas internalizan los ideales de belleza y aceptan las presiones sociales acerca de la apariencia corporal incluso por encima de su bienestar. El objetivo del presente estudio instrumental fue evaluar las propiedades psicométricas del Cuestionario de actitudes socioculturales sobre la apariencia (SATAQ-4) en población colombiana, para lo cual se utilizó una muestra estratificada no aleatorizada conformada por 214 personas -138 mujeres y 76 hombres-, con un promedio de edad de 25.13 años (DE = 7.66). Se retomó la versión en español del instrumento validado en Argentina, que fue evaluada por jueces expertos para realizar la adaptación lingüística y que se aplicó a una muestra piloto antes de la aplicación definitiva, hecha bajo las normas éticas exigidas. Se realizó el análisis de las condiciones psicométricas desde la teoría de respuesta al ítem, mediante el modelo Rasch, y por medio del software WINSTEPS. Los resultados indican que la versión en español cumple las condiciones psicométricas adecuadas en las cinco dimensiones que componen el instrumento (.72-.94); y que el grado de dificultad y de habilidad alcanzan valores de ajuste apropiados, lo que indica que el cuestionario cuenta con adecuadas condiciones psicométricas y mantiene su estructura interna original. En conclusión, la versión final de esta adaptación del SATAQ-4 puede ser utilizada en población de similar procedencia, a fin de evaluar el efecto de los aspectos socioculturales en la satisfacción con la imagen corporal.

Abstract The desire to meet modern aesthetic but unattainable body standards affects mental health, because people internalize the ideals of beauty and accept social pressures about body appearance even beyond their well-being. The objective of this instrumental study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Sociocultural Attitude Questionnaire on Appearance (SATAQ-4) in the Colombian population, using a non-randomized stratified sample of 214 people, 138 women and 76 men, with an average age of 25.13 years (SD = 7.66). The Spanish version of the instrument validated in Argentina was used again, which was evaluated by expert judges to perform the linguistic adaptation and apply it to a pilot sample before the final application, made under the required ethical standards. The analysis of the psychometric conditions was carried out from the Item Response Theory, by using the Rasch model, and through the WINSTEPS software. The results indicate that the Spanish version fulfills the adequate psychometric conditions in the five dimensions that make up the instrument (.72-.94); and that the degree of difficulty and ability reach appropriate adjustment values, which indicates that the questionnaire has adequate psychometric conditions and maintains its original internal structure. In conclusion, the final version of this adaptation of SATAQ-4 can be used in a population of similar origin, in order to evaluate the effect of sociocultural aspects on satisfaction with body image.

Limitaciones y barreras en el uso del condón en jóvenes universitarios de Cali, Colombia / Limitations and barriers for condom use in college students from Cali, Colombia

Introducción: El condón es un método de prevención de las Infecciones de Transmisión Sexual (ITS) y del embarazo, sin embargo, su uso en jóvenes colombianos es bajo. Objetivo: Identificar las barreras y limitaciones individuales, culturales e institucionales, en el uso del condón en jóvenes universitarios. Materiales y métodos: Investigación cualitativa, con 4 grupos focales mixtos con jóvenes de 17 a 24 años. Se realizó codificación con el software ATLAS.TI y un análisis temático. Resultados: A nivel individual se evidencia baja intención de uso, la confianza en la pareja aleja el temor de una ITS y el embarazo es la principal preocupación que desplaza su uso por otro método anticonceptivo. A nivel cultural las relaciones de género refuerzan que la mujer es responsable de los anticonceptivos y el hombre del condón. A nivel institucional, las políticas y los servicios de salud limitan su acceso. La lógica mercantilista y el enfoque de riesgo limitan la distribución gratuita y masiva. Conclusiones: El reconocimiento de factores individuales y sociales que limitan el uso del condón, permite la promoción del cuidado de sí y del otro; además la orientación de estrategias para promover una adecuada atención en los servicios de Salud Sexual y Reproductiva.

Introduction: Condom is a method to prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and pregnancy. However, the use of condom by the young Colombian population is low. Objective: To identify individual, cultural, and institutional barriers and limitations of condom use in university students. Materials and methods: A qualitative research was developed with 4 mixed focus groups of young people aged from 17 to 24 years. Coding was carried out with ATLAS.TI together with a thematic analysis. Results: At the individual level, it was observed: a low intention of condom use; trust in partner that reduces the fear of STDs; and pregnancy is the main reason why condom is replaced by a different contraceptive method. At the cultural level, gender relationships reinforce the view that women and men are responsible for the use of contraceptives and condoms, respectively. At the institutional level, health policies and services restrict the access to condoms. Mercantilism logic and risk approach limit free and massive distribution of condoms. Conclusions: The recognition of individual and social factors that limit the use of condoms facilitates the promotion of care for one self and for others as well as the coordination of strategies to promote adequate sexual and reproductive health services.

Development of the brain functional connectome follows puberty-dependent nonlinear trajectories.

Adolescence is a developmental period that dramatically impacts body and behavior, with pubertal hormones playing an important role not only in the morphological changes in the body but also in brain structure and function. Understanding brain development during adolescence has become a priority in neuroscience because it coincides with the onset of many psychiatric and behavioral disorders. However, little is known about how puberty influences the brain functional connectome. In this study, taking a longitudinal human sample of typically developing children and adolescents (of both sexes), we demonstrate that the development of the brain functional connectome better fits pubertal status than chronological age. In particular, centrality, segregation, efficiency, and integration of the brain functional connectome increase after the onset of the pubertal markers. We found that these effects are stronger in attention and task control networks. Lastly, after controlling for this effect, we showed that functional connectivity between these networks is related to better performance in cognitive flexibility. This study points out the importance of considering longitudinal nonlinear trends when exploring developmental trajectories, and emphasizes the impact of puberty on the functional organization of the brain in adolescence.

Effects of nano-enabled agricultural strategies on food quality: Current knowledge and future research needs.

It is becoming more feasible to use nano-enabled agricultural products such as nanofertilizers and nanopesticides to improve the efficiency of agrochemical delivery to crop plants. Experimental results have shown that nano-agrochemicals have great potential for reducing the environmental impact of traditional agrochemicals while simultaneously significantly increasing crop production. However, emerging data suggest that nano-enabled products are not only capable of increasing yield, but also result in alterations in crop quality. Variation in proteins, sugars, starch content, as well as in metallic essential elements have been reported. Verbi gratia, albumin, globulin, and prolamin have been significantly increased in rice exposed to CeO2 engineered nanoparticles (ENPs), while CeO2, CuO, and ZnO ENPs have increased Ca, Mg, and P in several crops. Conversely, reductions in Mo and Ni have been reported in cucumber and kidney beans exposed to CeO2 and ZnO engineered nanomaterials, respectively. However, reports on specific effects in human health due to the consumption of agricultural products obtained from plants exposed to nano-agrochemicals are still missing.

Analysis of Nostoc muscorum biomass production in a hydroponic system / Análisis de la producción de biomasa de Nostoc muscorum en sistema hidropónico / Análise da produção de biomassa de Nostoc muscorum num sistema hidropônico

Abstract Nostoc is a genus of filamentous cyanobacteria with biotechnological applications in human nutrition, biomedicine, biofertilization and commercial production of biofuels. However, the low growth rate in liquid medium due to its periphytic nature and its tendency to form biofilms, limits its large-scale production. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the biomass production of Nostoc muscorum in a modified hydroponic system. Cultures of N. muscorum were made by triplicate, in a hydroponic system under semicontrolled conditions of temperature (29 ± 13 °C), light intensity (32 ± 54 µmol/m2/s) and photoperiod (12 hours), for a total of 23 days inside a greenhouse. Temperature, pH, conductivity and dry biomass production were monitored on alternating days. The results showed that the maximum dry biomass production was 0.2276 ± 0.0114 g/m2/day, and the average productivity was 0.4149 ± 0.0207 g/m2/day. The maximum biomass production of N. muscorum was achieved on day thirteen with 0.3185 ± 0.0159 g/m2/day. The correlation statistical analysis of environmental variables did not show significant differences; thus, temperature, pH and electrical conductivity did not affect the biomass production of N. muscorum. Consequently, the algal growth was influenced by the species physiology only. The support used in the hydroponic system allowed the adhesion and development of the algae mucilaginous layer without requiring drying periods as in conventional crops. The hydroponic system provided a continuous flow of nutrients hat could prevent the attack of opportunistic bacteria and fungi, generating a high growth rate of N. muscorum. The hydroponic system represents a viable alternative for the production of N. muscorum biomass under greenhouse conditions at large scale.

Resumen Nostoc es un género de cianobacterias filamentosas con aplicaciones biotecnológicas en nutrición humana, biomedicina, biofertilización y producción comercial de biocombustibles. Sin embargo, su baja tasa de crecimiento en medio líquido por su naturaleza perifítica y su tendencia a formar biofilms, limita su producción a gran escala. Por lo tanto, el objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la producción de biomasa de Nostoc muscorum en un sistema hidropónico modificado. Para ello, se realizaron cultivos de N. muscorum por triplicado, en un sistema hidropónico bajo condiciones semicontroladas de temperatura (29 ± 13°C), intensidad lumínica (32 ± 54 µmol/m2/s) y fotoperiodo (12 horas), durante 23 días en un invernadero. La temperatura, el pH, la conductividad eléctrica y la producción de biomasa seca, fueron monitoreados en días alternados. Los resultados arrojaron que la producción máxima de biomasa seca fue de 0.2276 ± 0.0114 g/m2/día, y la productividad promedio fue de 0.4149 ± 0.0207 g/m2/día. A su vez, la producción máxima de biomasa de N. muscorum se obtuvo el día trece con 0.3185 ± 0.0159 g/m2/día. El análisis estadístico de correlación de variables ambientales no arrojó diferencias significativas, por lo que la temperatura, el pH y la conductividad eléctrica no afectaron la producción de biomasa de N. muscorum. Consecuentemente, el crecimiento algal fue influenciado por la fisiología de la especie. El soporte empleado en el sistema hidropónico permitió la adherencia y el desarrollo de la capa mucilaginosa de la cianobacteria sin requerir períodos de desecación como en los cultivos convencionales. El sistema hidropónico proporcionó un flujo continuo de nutrientes que podría prevenir el ataque de bacterias y hongos oportunistas, generando una alta tasa de crecimiento. De este modo, este sistema hidropónico representa una alternativa viable para la producción de biomasa de N. muscorum en condiciones de invernadero a gran escala.

Resumo Nostoc é um gênero de cianobactérias filamentosas com aplicações biotecnológicas em nutrição humana, biomedicina, biofertilização e produção comercial de biocombustíveis. Entretanto, sua baixa taxa de crescimento em meio líquido, devido à sua natureza perifítica e sua tendência a formar biofilmes, limita sua produção em larga escala. Portanto, o objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a produção de biomassa de Nostoc muscorum num sistema hidropônico modificado. Para isso, foram realizadas culturas de N. muscorum em triplicata num sistema hidropônico sob temperatura (29 ± 13°C) e intensidade da luz (32 ± 54 µmol/m2 /s) semicontroladas com fotoperíodo de 12 horas durante 23 dias numa estufa. A temperatura, o pH, a condutividade elétrica e a biomassa seca foram monitorados em dias alternados. Os resultados mostraram que a produção máxima de biomassa seca foi de 0,2276 ± 0,0114 g/m2 /dia e a produtividade média foi de 0,4149 ± 0,0207 g/ m2 /dia. No entanto, a produção máxima de biomassa de N. muscorum foi obtida no dia treze com 0,3185 ± 0,0159 g/m / dia. A análise estatística da correlação de variáveis ambientais não mostrou nenhuma diferença significativa, de modo que a temperatura, o pH e a condutividade eléctrica não afetaram a produção de biomassa de N. muscorum e o crescimento foi influenciado pela fisiologia da espécie. O suporte utilizado permitiu a adesão e desenvolvimento da camada mucilaginosa das algas sem a necessidade de períodos de secagem como nas culturas convencionais. O sistema hidropônico proporcionou um fluxo contínuo de nutrientes que impede o ataque de bactérias e fungos oportunistas, gerando uma alta taxa de crescimento. Portanto, este sistema hidropônico representa uma alternativa viável para a produção de biomassa de N. muscorum em larga escala sob condições de estufa.

Chlorella, ¿un potencial biofertilizante? / Chlorella, a potential biofertilizer? / Chlorella, um potencial biofertilizante?

Resumen Las microalgas son organismos fotoautótrofos con un rápido crecimiento y la habilidad de adaptarse a diversos ambientes. Convierten el dióxido de carbono en biomasa y debido a esto, se considera que tienen gran potencial biotecnológico. La biomasa algal puede usarse en la industria alimenticia y de compuestos bioactivos, en la producción de biocombustibles, en la bioremediación y biofertilización. Como biofertilizantes, las microalgas clorofitas y cianofitas, producen polisacáridos (mucílago) que pueden evitar la erosión, mejorar la estructura y el contenido de material orgánica de los suelos, y aumentar la concentración de iones en los cultivos. Reduciendo de esta forma la necesidad de fertilizantes químicos convencionales. El uso de estas microalgas como biofertilizantes se denomina algalización. Durante este proceso se usan principalmente clorofitas por su alta tasa de crecimiento, la facilidad de su cultivo a gran escala, y su adaptación a las condiciones del suelo. El género Chlorella es de gran interés porque diversos estudios han mostrado que puede ayudar en la fijación del nitrógeno, mejorar las propiedades físicas y químicas del suelo, y producir sustancias que promueven el desarrollo de la planta y el control de infecciones. Por esta razón, las microalgas del género Chlorella representan una alternativa viable para la biofertilización, generando beneficios no solo para la producción agrícola sino también para el medio ambiente.

Abstract Microalgae are photoautotrophic organisms with fast growth and the ability to adapt to different environments. They convert carbon dioxide into biomass and are considered to have great biotechnological potential because of it. Algal biomass can be used in food and bioactive compounds industry, in biofuels production, in bioremediation and biofertilization. As biofertilizers, chlorophytes and cyanophytes microalgae produce polysaccharides (mucilage) that can avoid erosion, improve the structure and organic matter content in the soil, and increase the ions concentration for crop plants. Thus, reducing the need for conventional crop chemical fertilizers. The use of this microalgae as biofertilizers is called algalization. Algalization uses mainly chlorophytes due to their high growth rate, their simple large scale cultivation, and their adaptation to soil conditions. Chlorella genus is of special interest because research has shown that it can help with nitrogen fixation, improve physical and chemical properties of the soil, and produce substances that can promote plant development and infections control. Therefore, microalgae from Chlorella genus are a viable alternative for biofertilization, generating benefits for agricultural production and the environment.

Resumo As microalgas são organismos fotoautotróficos com crescimento rápido e capacidade de adaptação a diferentes ambientes. Eles convertem dióxido de carbono em biomassa e, por isso, são considerados com um grande potencial biotecnológico. A biomassa de algas pode ser usada na indústria alimentar e de compostos bioactivos, na produção de biocombustíveis, na biorremediação e biofertilização. Como biofertilizantes, as microalgas clorófitas e cianófitas produzem polissacarídeos (mucilagem) que podem evitar a erosão, melhorar a estrutura e o conteúdo de matéria orgânica do solo, e aumentar a concentração de iões nas culturas, reduzindo assim a necessidade de fertilizantes químicos convencionais. O uso dessas microalgas como biofertilizantes é chamado de algalização. Durante este processo, usam-se eles ​​principalmente clorofíceas por sua alta taxa de crescimento, facilidade de cultura em larga escala, e sua adaptação às condições do solo. A Chlorella é de grande interesse porque vários estudos têm mostrado que pode auxiliar na fixação do nitrogênio, melhorar as propriedades físicas e químicas do solo, e produzir substâncias que promovem o crescimento das plantas e o controle de infecções. Por esta razão, as microalgas do gênero Chlorella representam uma alternativa viável para a biofertilização, gerando benefícios não só para a produção agrícola, mas também para o meio ambiente.

Sensibilización ambiental con TIC: App "Ubica un primate" / Environmental awareness with ICT: App "Ubica un primate" / Sensibilização ambiental com TIC: App "Ubica un primate"

Resumen Las constantes amenazas y conflictos que afectan a los primates en ambientes urbanos ponen a sus poblaciones en declive. Esto se agrava por la falta de conocimiento de los habitantes sobre la fauna y la flora con la que coexisten. Con el objetivo de aumentar el conocimiento y sensibilizar a la población de Villavicencio sobre la importancia y distribución de primates en ecosistemas urbanos se desarrolló una aplicación móvil (app) gratuita. Inicialmente, se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas (n = 140) con residentes de cada zona (n = 28) de la ciudad de Villavicencio en la que se observaron primates, con el fin de generar un mapa de la distribución de primates diurnos. También se hizo la identificación de las especies presentes, siendo: Saimiri sciureus cassiquiarensis, Plecturocebus ornatus, Alouatta seniculus y Sapajus apella. Con los datos de distribución, conflictos y amenazas, se construyó una aplicación móvil en el sistema Android, donde tales datos están georreferenciados, con el fin de sensibilizar a la comunidad sobre las especies de primates presentes en la ciudad. La socialización de la app fue dirigida a las entidades gubernamentales y ONGs de la ciudad, obteniendo una evaluación positiva por el público. Trabajar con comunidades en proyectos de sensibilización ambiental que utilizan herramientas como las TICs tiene el potencial de transformar la dinámica sociocultural local, promoviendo una mayor preocupación con la biodiversidad y siendo una herramienta bien recibida por diferentes grupos de la población.

Abstract Constant threats and conflicts that affect primates in urban environments put their populations in decline. The situation is aggravated by the lack of knowledge of the community about the fauna and flora that they coexist with. Aiming to increase the knowledge and awareness of the people from Villavicencio on the importance and distribution of primates in urban ecosystems, a free mobile application (app) was developed. Initially, 140 semi-structured interviews were conducted with residents of each area of Villavicencio where primates were observed (n=28). As a result, a distribution map of diurnal primates was created. Identification of the present species was also made. The following species were found: Saimiri sciureus cassiquiarensis, Plecturocebus ornatus, Alouatta seniculus, and Sapajus apella. With distribution, conflicts and threats data, a mobile application was built in the Android system, georeferencing the information available, so the community could be sensitized about the primate species in the city. Socialization of the application was addressed to governmental entities and NGOs of the city, obtaining a positive evaluation by the public. Working with communities on environmental awareness projects that use tools such as ICTs has the potential to transform local socio-cultural dynamics, to promote greater concern about biodiversity, and it is a well-received tool by different groups of people.

Resumo As constantes ameaças e conflitos que afetam os primatas em ambientes urbanos colocam suas populações em declínio. Isso é agravado ainda pela falta de conhecimento dos habitantes sobre a fauna e a flora com a qual coexistem. Com o objetivo de aumentar o conhecimento e sensibilizar a população de Villavicencio sobre a importância e distribuição de primatas em ecossistemas urbanos foi desenvolvido um aplicativo móvel (app) gratuito. Inicialmente, foram realizadas entrevistas semi-estruturadas (n=140) com residentes de cada zona (n=28) da cidade de Villavicencio nas quais se observaram primatas a fim de gerar um mapa da distribuição de primatas diurnos. Também foi feita a identificação das espécies presentes, sendo: Saimiri sciureus cassiquiarensis, Plecturocebus ornatus, Alouatta seniculus e Sapajus apella. Com os dados de distribuição, conflitos e ameaças, foi construído um aplicativo móvel no sistema Android, onde tais dados estão georeferenciados, a fim de sensibilizar a comunidade sobre as espécies de primatas presentes na cidade. A socialização do app foi direcionada para as entidades governamentais e ONGs da cidade, obtendo uma avaliação positiva pelo público. Trabalhar com comunidades em projetos de sensibilização ambiental que utilizam ferramentas como as TICs tem o potencial de transformar a dinâmica sociocultural local, promovendo uma maior preocupação com a biodiversidade, sendo uma ferramenta bem recebida por diferentes grupos da população.

Using eDNA to biomonitor the fish community in a tropical oligotrophic lake.

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is an effective approach for detecting vertebrates and plants, especially in aquatic ecosystems, but prior studies have largely examined eDNA in cool temperate settings. By contrast, this study employs eDNA to survey the fish fauna in tropical Lake Bacalar (Mexico) with the additional goal of assessing the possible presence of invasive fishes, such as Amazon sailfin catfish and tilapia. Sediment and water samples were collected from eight stations in Lake Bacalar on three occasions over a 4-month interval. Each sample was stored in the presence or absence of lysis buffer to compare eDNA recovery. Short fragments (184-187 bp) of the cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene were amplified using fusion primers and then sequenced on Ion Torrent PGM or S5 before their source species were determined using a custom reference sequence database constructed on BOLD. In total, eDNA sequences were recovered from 75 species of vertebrates including 47 fishes, 15 birds, 7 mammals, 5 reptiles, and 1 amphibian. Although all species are known from this region, six fish species represent new records for the study area, while two require verification. Sequences for five species (2 birds, 2 mammals, 1 reptile) were only detected from sediments, while sequences from 52 species were only recovered from water. Because DNA from the Amazon sailfin catfish was not detected, we used a mock eDNA experiment to confirm our methods would enable its detection. In summary, we developed protocols that recovered eDNA from tropical oligotrophic aquatic ecosystems and confirmed their effectiveness in detecting fishes and diverse species of vertebrates.

Effect of the Riparian Vegetation on the Phytoperiphyton of Wetlands in the Colombian Orinoquía / Efecto de la vegetación riparia sobre el fitoperifiton de humedales en la orinoquía colombiana

RESUMEN La vegetación riparia es primordial para el funcionamiento de los ecosistemas acuáticos al aportar materia orgánica. Dado que el perifiton juega un rol indispensable en la dinámica de estos ecosistemas y existen pocos trabajos sobre su ecología en el Neotrópico, se planteó la pregunta: ¿Cómo afecta el tipo de cobertura vegetal de la zona riparia, la estructura del fitoperifiton de humedales de la Orinoquía? En noviembre de 2016 se estudiaron 15 humedales con cobertura boscosa y 15 humedales con vegetación herbácea en su zona riparia. Los humedales están ubicados en la zona periurbana de Villavicencio, Meta (Colombia). Se comparó la diversidad algal entre coberturas riparias y se realizaron análisis de Redundancia para determinar que variables ambientales explicaban la composición del fitoperifiton. Se encontraron 467 morfotipos de algas, el 36,2 % perteneció a la clase Zygnematophyceae, 35,3 % a Bacillariophyceae y 16 % a Chlorophyceae. En cuanto a las diatomeas, se encontraron 165 morfoespecies distribuidas en 30 géneros. Eunotia y Pinnularia fueron los más representativos. Los análisis multivariados indicaron que la composición de diatomeas se relacionó con la cobertura vegetal litoral y el carbono orgánico total. El resto del fitoperifiton fue explicado por la temperatura y la conductividad. Modelos de regresión lineal mostraron que la diversidad de diatomeas fue explicada por el número de sustratos, la temporalidad y la cobertura vegetal riparia. Los resultados permiten concluir que en humedales antropizados de la Orinoquía colombiana, el tipo de cobertura vegetal riparia afecta la composición y diversidad de las diatomeas.

ABSTRACT Riparian vegetation is essential for the functioning of aquatic ecosystems by providing organic matter. Given that periphyton plays an indispensable role in the dynamics of these ecosystems and there are few works on its ecology in the Neotropic our research question was: How does the riparian vegetation cover affect the structure of the phytoperiphyton in wetlands of the Orinoquía? In November 2016, we sampled 15 wetlands covered by forest and 15 wetlands covered by herbaceous vegetation in the riparian zone. The wetlands are located in the peri-urban area of Villavicencio, Meta (Colombia). The algal diversity between coverage types was compared and Redundancy Analyses were carried out to determine which environmental variables explain the phytoperiphyton composition. 467 morphotypes of microalgae were found, 36.2 % belonged to the Zygnematophyceae Class, 35.3 % to Bacillariophyceae, and 16 % to Chlorophyceae. 165 morpho-species of diatom distributed in 30 genera were found. Eunotia and Pinnularia were the most representative. The multivariate analyzes indicate that the composition of diatoms was related to the littoral vegetation coverage and the total organic carbon. The rest of the phytoperifiton was explained by temperature and conductivity. Linear regression models showed that the diversity of diatoms was explained by the number of substrates, temporality and the type of riparian coverage. We conclude that in anthropogenic wetlands of the Colombian Orinoquía, the type of riparian vegetation affects the composition and diversity of diatoms.

Estrategia de gestión ambiental basada en los servicios ecosistémicos del Caño Siete Vueltas (Villavicencio, Colombia) / Environmental management strategy based on the ecosystem services of Caño Siete Vueltas (Villavicencio, Colombia)

Introducción. Los servicios ecosistémicos (SE) representan la contribución de los ecosistemas al bienestar humano. Evaluar la percepción de las comunidades sobre los SE, junto con la aplicación de la Educación Ambiental (EA), permiten dar solución a la relación del hombre con la naturaleza y proteger el medio ambiente. Objetivo. Construir una estrategia de gestión ambiental en la comunidad de la Institución Educativa Catumare (IEC) de Villavicencio (Meta, Colombia), a partir de la percepción de los SE y basada en la EA, con el fin de apoyar la conservación del ecosistema del caño Siete Vueltas. Materiales y métodos. Se realizaron salidas de reconocimiento tanto de la zona de estudio como de la población relacionada, y encuestas estructuradas para obtener un diagnóstico de la percepción de los SE. A su vez, se desarrollaron talleres de capacitación donde se formuló una estrategia de gestión ambiental que consistió en campañas de limpieza y sensibilización. Los alcances de la estrategia se midieron con encuestas estructuradas y la aplicación de la Escala de Likert. Resultados. La contaminación ambiental con residuos sólidos afecta el caño Siete Vueltas. Existe en la comunidad una necesidad de sensibilización frente a los SE y los problemas ambientales del caño Siete Vueltas. Se destaca el interés, participación activa y sentido de pertenencia mostrado por la comunidad de la IEC durante las campañas de limpieza y sensibilización. El resultado más notorio fue el aumento de la percepción positiva y de beneficio por parte de los diferentes actores de la comunidad sobre los SE del caño Siete Vueltas tras la estrategia de gestión ambiental. Conclusión. Este estudio se podrá utilizar como base para emprender proyectos desde la IEC que contribuyan a la gestión integral de los recursos ecosistémicos, pero requiere de un trabajo permanente y dedicado a la conservación de este cuerpo de agua que involucre a las autoridades competentes, pero sobre todo a la comunidad residente.

Introduction: Ecosystem services (ES) represent the contribution of ecosystems to human well-being. Assessing the perception of communities about ES together with the application of Environmental Education (EE), allows solving the relationship of man with nature and with the protection of the environment. Objective. To build an environmental management strategy in the community of the Institución Educativa Catumare (IEC) in Villavicencio (Meta, Colombia), from their perception of ES and based on EE, in order to support the conservation of the Caño Siete Vueltas ecosystem. Materials and methods: Recognition trips were made from both, the studied area and the related population, and structured interviews were carried out to obtain a diagnosis of the perception of the ES. Training workshops were developed in which an environmental management strategy was developed that consisted of cleaning and awareness campaigns. The scope of the strategy was measured with structured interviews and the application of the Likert Scale. Results: Environmental contamination with solid waste affects Caño Siete Vueltas. There was a need for awareness regarding ES and the environmental problems of Caño Siete Vueltas. The interest, active participation and sense of belonging shown by the IEC community during the cleaning and awareness campaigns are highlighted. The most notorious result was the increase in the positive and beneficial perception of the different actors in the community about the ES of Caño Siete Vueltas after the environmental management strategy. Conclusion. This study can be used as a basis for undertaking projects from the IEC that contribute to the comprehensive management of ecosystem resources, but requires a permanent work and dedicated to the conservation of this body of water source that involves the competent authorities but, above all, the resident community.

The Journey to Accreditation of a Nurse Residency Program.

The purpose of this article is to describe the process from inception to accreditation of a post-baccalaureate nurse residency program between a VA Healthcare center and a university school of nursing so that other nurse educators can benefit from its development. Establishing a nurse residency program bridges the gap between education and practice and provides support to graduate nurses entering the workforce.

DNA barcode identification of commercial fish sold in Mexican markets.

The substitution of high-value fish species for those of lower value is common practice. Although numerous studies have addressed this issue, few have been conducted in Mexico. In this study, we sought to identify fresh fillets of fish, sharks, and rays using DNA barcodes. We analyzed material from "La Viga" in Mexico City, and other markets located on the Gulf and Caribbean coasts of Mexico. From 134 samples, we obtained sequences from 129, identified to 9 orders, 28 families, 38 genera, and 44 species. The most common species were Seriola dumerili, Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, Carcharhinus falciformis, Carcharhinus brevipinna, and Hypanus americanus. Pangasianodon hypophthalmus was most commonly used as a substitute for higher-value species. The substitution rate was 18% of the total. A review of the conservation status of the specimens identified against the IUNC list enabled us to establish that some species marketed in Mexico are threatened: Makaira nigricans, Lachnolaimus maximus, Hyporthodus flavolimbatus, and Isurus oxyrinchus are classified as vulnerable; Lopholatilus chamaeleonticeps and Sphyrna lewini are endangered; and the status of Hyporthodus nigritus is critical. These results will demonstrate to the Mexican authorities that DNA barcoding is a reliable tool for species identification, even when morphological identification is difficult or impossible.