Jose Miguel

ORLEN UniCRE a.s., Revoluční 1521/84, 400 01 Ústí nad Labem, Czech Republic

Zebrafish (Danio rerio) have emerged as a valuable animal model for neurobehavioral research, particularly in the study of anxiety-related states. This article explores the use of conceptual models to investigate stress, fear, and anxiety in zebrafish induced by bio-inspired mini-robotic fish with different components and designs. The objective is to optimize robotic biomimicry and its impact on fish welfare. Previous studies have focused on externally controlled fish models, whereas this study introduces prototypes of freely actuated swimming robots to examine interactions between a bio-inspired robot and individual zebrafish. By means of analysis of behavioral responses, certain robotic components have been identified as potential causes of anxiety in fish, which have provided insights that may be applicable to other species and future aquacultural robot designs.

This study describes the methodology and main results obtained after applying several geomatic techniques, based on the fusion of data acquired by several sensors, to document the recovery works carried out in an abandoned church. A century ago, the façade was moved to a museum to ensure its preservation. In addition to documentary purposes, a secondary goal is the virtual repositioning of a model of this element on that of the church. The method takes advantage of the potential of each technique, considering the acquisition of geometry based mainly on laser scanning techniques and radiometry on photogrammetry. The results include 3D models and orthoimages, which are used to perform a stratigraphic study. The 3D model of the façade has been repositioned in the general one, considering common geometries previously fitted in both models and repeating part of the photogrammetric process, using masks to define the image areas related to the church and the façade. Therefore, we obtained a 3D model with the façade included in it. This procedure has demonstrated its feasibility despite the existence of different environmental conditions in both areas. Using these results, we have also developed a BIM to allow for the management of future restoration works.

This article proposes a theoretical framework for STEM education. It begins by determining the epistemological (based on the Model of Educational Reconstruction and General Systems Theory) and pedagogical (grounded in Situated Learning Theory and co-teaching) alignments. Once these issues are established, a pedagogical model is proposed to facilitate the implementation of the STEM approach in the classroom. This is the IDEARR model, consisting of six phases (Initial, Deconstruction, Explanation, Application, Review, and Reporting) to address an ill-defined problem. This article concludes with a reflection on the educational implications that arise from adopting this theoretical framework for working on STEM education in classrooms, particularly those related to the organization and operation of educational institutions and the initial and ongoing training of teachers.

Collagen, a versatile family of proteins with 28 members and 44 genes, is pivotal in maintaining tissue integrity and function. It plays a crucial role in physiological processes like wound healing, hemostasis, and pathological conditions such as fibrosis and cancer. Collagen is a target in these processes. Direct methods for collagen modulation include enzymatic breakdown and molecular binding approaches. For instance, Clostridium histolyticum collagenase is effective in treating localized fibrosis. Polypeptides like collagen-binding domains offer promising avenues for tumor-specific immunotherapy and drug delivery. Indirect targeting of collagen involves regulating cellular processes essential for its synthesis and maturation, such as translation regulation and microRNA activity. Enzymes involved in collagen modification, such as prolyl-hydroxylases or lysyl-oxidases, are also indirect therapeutic targets. From another perspective, collagen is also a natural source of drugs. Enzymatic degradation of collagen generates bioactive fragments known as matrikines and matricryptins, which exhibit diverse pharmacological activities. Overall, collagen-derived peptides present significant therapeutic potential beyond tissue repair, offering various strategies for treating fibrosis, cancer, and genetic disorders. Continued research into specific collagen targeting and the application of collagen and its derivatives may lead to the development of novel treatments for a range of pathological conditions.

In Europe, sports food supplements (SSFs) are subject to specific laws and regulations. Up to 70% of athletes are highly influenced by the information on the label or the advertisement of the SSF, which often does not correspond to the scientific evidence, such as health claims. The aim is to analyze such claims relating to sports drinks (SDs) in commercial messages. To this end, an observational and cross-sectional study was conducted based on the analysis of the content and degree of adequacy of the health claims indicated on the labelling or technical data sheet of the SDs with those established by the European legislation in force according to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The SSFs were searched for via Amazon and Google Shopping. A total of 114 health claims were evaluated. No claim fully conformed with the recommendations. A total of 14 claims (n = 13 products) almost conformed to the recommendations; they were “Maintain endurance level in exercises requiring prolonged endurance”, “Improve water absorption during physical exercise”, and “Improved physical performance during high intensity, high duration physical exercise in trained adults”, representing 12.3% of the total (n = 114). The vast majority of the claims identified indicated an unproven cause–effect and should be modified or eliminated, which amounts to food fraud towards the consumer.

Instituto de Genética Humana “Dr. Enrique Corona Rivera”, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, 44340 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico

Author Notes Plant Physiology , kiae346, https://doi.org/10.1093/plphys/kiae346 Published:

This study rigorously investigates the effectiveness of nonlinear filters in CMOS for 2-D signal processing to enhance image quality. We comprehensively compare traditional linear filters' performance, which operate on the principle of linearity, with nonlinear filters, such as the median-median (Med-Med) approach, designed to handle nonlinear data. To ensure the validity of our findings, we use widely accepted metrics like normalized squared error (NSE), peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), and structural similarity index (SSIM) to quantify the differences. Our simulations and experiments, conducted under controlled conditions, demonstrate that nonlinear filters in CMOS outperform linear filters in removing impulse noise and enhancing images. We also address the challenges of implementing these algorithms at the hardware level, focusing on power consumption and chip area optimization. Additionally, we propose a new architecture for the Med-Med filter and validate its functionality through experiments using a 9-pixel image sensor array. Our findings highlight the potential of nonlinear filters in CMOS for real-time image quality enhancement and their applicability in various real-world imaging applications. This research contributes to visual technology by combining theoretical insights with practical implementations, paving the way for more efficient and adaptable imaging systems.

Fundación Cesefor, Calle C, E-42005 Soria, Spain iuFOR-EiFAB, Campus de Soria, Universidad de Valladolid, E-42004 Soria, Spain