Autonomous University of Sinaloa

Computational analysis of nine designs of triphenylamine-based sensitizers with donator-π-bridge-acceptor (D-π-A) structure for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC) was carried out via density functional theory (DFT). The purpose of this work was the modification of dye CP-II to improve the properties in DSSC with a series of changes using halogens like fluorine and chlorine in the donor group and chalcogens in the π-bridge. M06/6-31G(d) and M06/6-31G(d) + DZVP levels of calculation were utilized to determine ground state geometry optimization, frontier molecular orbitals, and their energy levels. The LUMO levels ranged from − 2.402 to − 2.568 eV, making them suitable for electron injection into the TiO₂ conduction band. Chemical reactivity parameters such as chemical hardness (η), electrophilicity index (ω), electroaccepting power (ω⁺), and electrodonating power (ω⁻) were studied. After their analysis, these values proved suitable for use as sensitizers. The free energy of electron injection (∆Ginject) was calculated with values between 1.203 and 1.683 eV, indicating a sufficient driving force for electron injection. Light-harvesting efficiency (LHE) and excited-state lifetime (τ) were estimated and analyzed. Time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) with M06-2X/6-31G(d) and M06-2X/6-31G(d) + DZVP levels of calculation were used to determine the absorption wavelengths, oscillator strengths, and electron transitions. The incorporation of tellurium and selenium in the π-bridge reduced the HOMO–LUMO gap, enhanced charge transfer, and increased chemical stability. The best-performing sensitizer, MeTTe, exhibited a HOMO–LUMO gap of 2.715 eV, a high electrophilicity index (3.51 eV), and a long excited-state lifetime (9.73 ns).

Background Pain is a frequent symptom in cancer patients (CP), and its multidimensional assessment is essential for a comprehensive approach and to establish clinical prognoses. The Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) is an internationally recognized tool for the multidimensional assessment of pain, both in clinical and research settings. However, no studies have been reported in Latin America that determine its psychometric properties in CP and chronic pain. Objectives To determine the psychometric properties of the SF-MPQ in adult Mexican cancer patients with chronic pain. Methods An instrumental design was used with a non-probabilistic convenience sample of 222 cancer patients treated at the pain clinic of a tertiary care hospital. Analyses were conducted to evaluate factorial structure (exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis [CFA]), reliability (internal consistency), measurement invariance, and criterion validity (concurrent and divergent). Results CFA verified a 9-item structure divided into 2 factors: (1) Affective-Nociceptive and (2) Neuropathic. A global Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of .82 and a global McDonald’s Omega index of .82 were identified. Configural, metric, and scalar invariance (ΔCFI ≤ .01; ΔRMSEA ≤ .015) were confirmed regarding the sex variable. Finally, the SF-MPQ showed a positive correlation with the Numerical Rating Scale (rho = .436, p < .01) and a negative correlation with the EORTC-QLQ C30 (rho = −.396, p < .01). Significance of results The Mexican version of the SF-MPQ presented adequate psychometric properties and fit indices, making it a valid and reliable instrument for use in clinical and research settings in Mexico. Its use is recommended for the comprehensive assessment of pain in oncology in Mexico, as it allows for the understanding of pain characteristics beyond intensity, guiding the establishment of clinical prognoses.

Introduction: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common cancer in men worldwide, with significant incidence and mortality, particularly in Mexico, where diagnosis at advanced stages is common. Early detection through screening methods such as digital rectal examination and prostate-specific antigen testing is essential to improve outcomes. Despite current efforts, compliance with prostate screening (PS) remains low due to several barriers. This study aims to develop and validate a predictive model for PCa screening compliance in Mexican men. Materials and Methods: Retrospective observational design with data from the Mexican Health and Aging Study (MHAS). Participants were men aged 50–69 from three cohorts: development/internal validation, temporal validation, and external validation. Key predictors were identified using relaxed Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression, and model performance was assessed using the area under the curve (AUC) from receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses, along with calibration and decision curve analysis (DCA). A web nomogram was also developed. Results: The final model included seven key predictors. AUC values indicated good predictive performance: 0.783 for the training subgroup, 0.722 for the test subgroup, 0.748 for the time cohort, and 0.756 for the external cohort, with sensitivities of 73.5%. The DCA demonstrated the superior clinical utility of the model compared to the reference strategies. Conclusions: The predictive model developed for performance to PCa screening is robust across different cohorts and highlights critical factors influencing performance. The accompanying web-based nomogram enhances clinical applicability and supports interventions aimed at improving PCa screening rates among Mexican men.

La pandemia del COVID-19 provocó una paralización económica a nivel mundial, en la cual, el sector turístico no fue la excepción a partir de los primeros meses del año 2020 que genero un confinamiento de las personas, lo cual los viajes, las estadías, el gasto de los turistas se vieron reducidos. El objetivo es analizar los efectos generados por la pandemia COVID-19 en los indicadores turísticos en el destino turístico de Mazatlán, Sinaloa del periodo de 01 de enero de 2020 al 31 de diciembre de 2021. Utilizando una metodología cuantitativa con una técnica de recolección de datos documental y de buro, asimismo, con la aplicación de los tipos de estudios: descriptivos y explicativos, esta investigación se llevó a cabo del 1 de enero al 31 de diciembre de 2022. Algunos resultados de los indicadores son: la llegada de turistas creció en 54%, el porcentaje de ocupación aumento en 49%, la estadía promedio subió en 9% comparando el año 2020 contra el año 2021 a pesar de estar presente la pandemia. Para finalizar, se presentan conclusiones como: el turismo es una actividad económica multi y transdisciplinar, asimismo, dinámica y susceptible a cualquier periodo de crisis de salud, económica e inseguridad; además, los meses más críticos de la actividad turística fueron abril, mayo y junio del 2020 donde se observó que no llegaron turistas tanto nacionales y extranjeros a este destino debido al confinamiento de las personas en México, así como en Estados Unidos y Canadá principales mercados extranjeros.

Rationale The giant placental chorangioma is a non-trophoblastic tumor, characterized by vascular proliferation that invades the fetal side of the placenta. This can lead to uteroplacental insufficiency and a subsequent imbalance of proangiogenic and antiangiogenic factors, resulting in early-onset preeclampsia and becoming an imminent obstetric emergency. The diagnosis can be suspected during the prenatal stage through ultrasound and confirmed through histopathology. Patient concerns This case concerns a 23-year-old female patient who was admitted to our hospital at 32.6 weeks of gestation with a fetus in breech presentation in active labor and a placental tumor of undetermined origin. The placenta, measuring approximately 10 × 10 cm, with a mass, was sent to the pathology diagnosis. Diagnoses The histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of giant placental chorangioma. Interventions This case underscores the critical importance of prompt and comprehensive management in pregnant patients with placental tumors. Timely diagnosis and initiation of appropriate treatments, including antihypertensive medications and vigilant monitoring, played a crucial role in the successful resolution of the patient’s condition. The confirmation of a giant placental chorangioma through histopathology emphasizes the significance of considering rare placental pathologies in clinical decision-making. Outcomes This case contributes to the broader understanding of maternal-fetal health in the context of placental abnormalities and emphasizes the need for ongoing follow-up and management after discharge to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the infant. Lessons Early ultrasound detection of placental abnormalities allows for timely intervention. Multidisciplinary care is crucial for managing these rare tumors. Histopathology confirms the diagnosis, guiding treatment decisions. Postpartum follow-up ensures maternal and fetal well-being.

The current global health and economic crisis caused by COVID-19 has opened the possibility of adopting new business cooperation models to adapt to the challenges presented by the environment, one of them is the so-called collaborative economy which is managing to consolidate an economic concept with a market value of more than 100 million euros, unlike Mexico, these schemes are hardly appreciated in the restaurant industry. Based on the grounded theory and with the objective of analyzing whether entrepreneurs recognize the concept of what the collaborative economy represents from a perspective of support for the benefit of the changes that have occurred in the industry, we have examined 4 representative CEOs of organizations positioned in the gastronomic sector of Sinaloa-Mexico. The methodology used is qualitative with a naturalistic approach and the main findings are that gastronomic companies with a vision in the collaborative economy develop a more inclusive and sustainable business model to benefit society since they combine social development and economic growth.

Freeze-drying and heat-drying (60–120 °C) experiments were performed with avocado peels, and changes in the phenolic profile of the peels were examined in relation to various activities, including antioxidant (ABTS and DPPH) activity; antibacterial activity against S. aureus, E. coli and P. aeruginosa; and inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase. Twenty-nine metabolites were identified as caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, procyanidins types A and B, and flavonoids. Freeze-drying preserved the highest levels of caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, procyanidins, total phenolic (TP) and total flavonoid (TF) contents; antioxidant and antibacterial activities; and inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase. Drying at 120 and 80 °C resulted in similar TP and TF contents, antioxidant activities and inhibitory activities against E. coli and P. aeruginosa, but these parameters were greater to those exhibited by samples dried at 100 and 60 °C. Nevertheless, more caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, procyanidins, and flavonoids were extracted from the samples dried at 120 °C, and a better inhibitory activity for S. aureus and α-glucosidase were obtained; the inhibition of S. aureus was comparable to that observed for freeze-dried peels. Therefore, compared to the other temperatures, drying at 120 °C was more effective in preserving the phenolic compounds and biological activities of avocado peels.

The effect of various K+ and Ca2+ nutrient solutions were evaluated to measure the growth rate, amount of reducing sugars and the production of Capsicum annuum Plants were grown directly in soil under shade house conditions in two separate experiments across two consecutive years. Nine nutrient solutions containing three levels of K+ (27, 35 and 43%) combined with three levels of Ca2+ (37, 45 and 53%) were used, along with the Steiner solution treatment as a control. Irrigation was calculated every week according to Kc, volumetric humidity and ETo, the experimental design was a block (furrows) with a 3(x)3 factorial arrangement. There was no interaction between growth rate, sugars and yield. Plants treated with the combination 27% of potassium with 53% of calcium presented a yield of 500 g/fruit greater than the control treatment (Steiner), and produced on average 2 more fruits per plant with a weight of 160 g/fruit (<0.05) higher than Steiner, the low potassium concentration (27%) induced a lower concentration of sugars with a value >3 mg/ml during the first crop cycle, it were analyzed during the flowering stage, and in the second agricultural cycle, during the fruiting stage it was < 4 mg/ml.

Sucralose, a commonly nonnutritive sweetener used in daily products of habitual diet, is related to impairing the gut microbiome by disrupting inflammatory response, promoting weight gain by increasing adipose tissue and promoting chronic inflammatory processes. Considering the impact of sucralose in the development of metabolic diseases, in this work, we focused on the impact of sucralose on the adipocyte differentiation process to determine if sucralose can promote adipogenesis and increase adipose tissue depots in PCS 210 010 human preadipocytes cell line. Sucralose at 25 (S25) and 100 ng/µL (S100) concentrations were tested against control with no edulcorant (NS) during the adipocyte differentiation process at 48 h and 96 h. The genetic expression of adipogenesis markers such as CEBP-α, PPARγ, EBF-2, UCP-1, and lipogenesis regulator ACC was determined by qPCR. A panel of human cytokines related to inflammatory response was measured by a flow cytometer using the kit Legend Plex Human Cytokine panel of BIOLUMINEX. Our results indicate that sucralose increased the expression of white adipocyte differentiation marker CEBP-α and lipogenesis regulator ACC at 96 h before complete differentiation. Also, sucralose triggers an inflammatory response by synthesizing adiponectin, resistin, IL-6, IL-8, and Il-1B. To summarize, sucralose stimulates the expression of genes related to adipogenesis and negatively affects the secretion of inflammatory cytokines and adipokines during preadipocyte differentiation.

The parasympathetic effects of the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) on the cerebral vasculature provide a compelling rationale for its therapeutic application in cerebrovascular ischemia. In recent years, attempts have been made to stimulate the SPG to achieve beneficial effects on cerebral circulation. This review synthesizes the available publications on SPG stimulation. It critically evaluates the evidence from preclinical studies and clinical trials to assess its potential as a treatment for acute cerebrovascular disorders and outlines aspects that still require more study. The medical literature provides consistent evidence of the significant effects of stimulating the SPG on cerebrovascular circulation. In addition, considerable evidence supports the therapeutic role of SPG stimulation in patients with cerebral ischemia. Given the current understanding, future research could explore the potential of SPG stimulation as a non-reperfusion intervention to improve long-term outcomes for individuals with ischemic cerebrovascular conditions.

In the pursuit of enhancing the optoelectronic properties of perovskite thin films for photovoltaic applications, this study investigates the effects of Fe ion irradiation on methylammonium lead iodide bromide (MAPbI₂Br) thin films. Thin films of methylammonium lead iodide bromide, (CH3NH3PbI2Br, or MAPbI2Br) have been deposited by sol–gel dip coating technique. These films were irradiated with 300 keV Fe ions with flouncy of 2 × 10¹⁴ ions/cm². The prepared films all show the cubic crystal structure. However, the film irradiated with Fe ions has a larger grain size, according to XRD. The optical characteristics, such as refractive index, band gap energy, and extinction coefficients, are examined by UV–Vis analysis. Although both the films showed a direct bandgap, the film irradiated with Fe ions showed a lower value for the bandgap energy (1.76 eV) and high refractive index. The device structure used was FTO/TiO2/MAPbI2Br/spiro-OMeTAD/Au. The devices made with 300 keV Fe ions irradiated film has high current density of 10.86 mA cm⁻², fill factor of 0.80, an open circuit voltage of 1.06 V, and an efficiency of 9.93%. The findings emphasize the potential of Fe ion irradiation as a novel technique to improve grain structure and optoelectronic properties, advancing perovskite-based device technology for higher efficiency solar cells.

The total charm-quark production cross section per unit of rapidity $\textrm{d}\sigma ({{\textrm{c}}\overline{\textrm{c}}})/\textrm{d}y$, and the fragmentation fractions of charm quarks to different charm-hadron species $f(\textrm{c}\rightarrow {\textrm{h}}_{\textrm{c}})$, are measured for the first time in p–Pb collisions at $\sqrt{s_\textrm{NN}} = 5.02~\text {Te}\hspace{-1.00006pt}\textrm{V}$ at midrapidity ($-0.96<y<0.04$ in the centre-of-mass frame) using data collected by ALICE at the CERN LHC. The results are obtained based on all the available measurements of prompt production of ground-state charm-hadron species: $\textrm{D}^{0}$, $\textrm{D}^{+}$, $\textrm{D}_\textrm{s}^{+}$, and $\mathrm {J/\psi }$ mesons, and $\Lambda _\textrm{c}^{+}$ and $\Xi _\textrm{c}^{0}$ baryons. The resulting cross section is $\textrm{d}\sigma ({{\textrm{c}}\overline{\textrm{c}}})/\textrm{d}y =219.6 \pm 6.3\;(\mathrm {stat.}) {\;}_{-11.8}^{+10.5}\;(\mathrm {syst.}) {\;}_{-2.9}^{+8.3}\;(\mathrm {extr.})\pm 5.4\;(\textrm{BR})\pm 4.6\;(\mathrm {lumi.}) \pm 19.5\;(\text {rapidity shape})+15.0\;(\Omega _\textrm{c}^{0})\;\textrm{mb}$, which is consistent with a binary scaling of pQCD calculations from pp collisions. The measured fragmentation fractions are compatible with those measured in pp collisions at $\sqrt{s} = 5.02$ and 13 TeV, showing an increase in the relative production rates of charm baryons with respect to charm mesons in pp and p–Pb collisions compared with $\mathrm {e^{+}e^{-}}$ and $\mathrm {e^{-}p}$ collisions. The $p_\textrm{T}$-integrated nuclear modification factor of charm quarks, $R_\textrm{pPb}({\textrm{c}}\overline{\textrm{c}})= 0.91 \pm 0.04\;\mathrm{(stat.)} ^{+0.08}_{-0.09}\;\mathrm{(syst.)} ^{+0.05}_{-0.03}\;\mathrm{(extr.)} \pm 0.03\;\mathrm{(lumi.)}$, is found to be consistent with unity and with theoretical predictions including nuclear modifications of the parton distribution functions.

The recent publication entitled “Possible zoonotic implications of the discovery of the advanced third stage larva of Gnathostoma turgidum (Spirurida: Gnathostomatidae) in a Mexican fish species” by Mosqueda-Cabrera et al ., appeared in Helminthologia, 2023; 60(1): 112–116. was extremely interesting and informative showing potential zoonotic natue of G. turgidum . However, discovery of only one larva from one out of 17 fish rather indicate that this fish is an accidental host of G. turgidum . Whether this and other fish act as the second intermediate host in the life cycle of G. turgidum requires more field survey using both compression and digestion methods. Also, many biological events of G. turgidum such as intrahepatic maturation in the final hosts and the seasonal changes with self cure are remained unsolved. More extensive survey on intermediate and paratenic hosts for G. turgidum and biological research on unique features of G. turgidum is necessary.

Employed sol-gel synthesis to fabricate undoped and (2, 4 wt.%) Al-doped MAPbI2Br films for perovskite solar cells. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the cubic structure of MAPbI2Br. The 2 wt.% Al-doped film exhibited a larger crystallite size. UV–Vis spectroscopy revealed a small bandgap energy of 1.95 eV and a high refractive index at 2 wt.% Al doping. These films were integrated into perovskite solar cells. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) demonstrated a significant decrease in recombination rate with Al doping. Incorporating 2 wt.% aluminum (Al) doping into MAPbI2Br led to a higher conduction band minimum (CBM) compared to pristine perovskite, suppressing interfacial recombination and increasing Voc in solar cells. Our investigation highlighted that optimal 2 wt.% Al doping reduced carrier concentration while enhancing carrier mobility, thereby improving the charge collection efficiency of photoexcited electrons at the FTO electrode and increasing short-circuit current density (Jsc). The resulting 2 wt.% Al-doped MAPbI2Br achieved maximum values of Jsc = 10.97 mA-cm−2, fill factor (FF) = 0.773, Voc = 1.09 V, and efficiency = 8.99%, showcasing its potential for low-cost perovskite technology. These findings offer valuable insights for identifying and developing new photovoltaic materials.

During parasitological surveys of marine fishes and zooplankton in localities of the Northwestern Pacific coast of Mexico, 28 Gafftopsail pompano (Trachinotus rhodopus Gill) and 50 mysid crustaceans (Metamysidopsis frankfiersi Hendrickx & Hernández-Payán) we identified to be infected with adults and cystacanths, respectively of an acanthocephalan morphologically corresponding to the genus Rhadinorhynchus Lühe, 1911. DNA sequences of the small (SSU) and large (LSU) subunits of ribosomal DNA, and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox 1) from mitochondrial DNA were obtained. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that the newly sequenced individuals in a clade with Rhadinorhynchus sp. from carangids in other localities of the Pacific coast of Mexico; together, all these individuals formed an independent lineage that is recognized herein as a new species, Rhadinorhynchus trachinotin. sp. The new species is morphologically distinguished from the other 38 congeners by having a long and cylindrical proboscis armed with 12 longitudinal rows bearing 16–18 hooks each. The ecological information gathered from the parasites, together with genetic evidence, confirms that the Gafftopsail pompano is the definitive host of R. trachinotin. sp., while mysid crustaceans serve as the intermediate host. Current records also indicate that R. trachinotin. sp. is distributed along the Pacific coast of Mexico, from Mazatlán, Sinaloa in the north to Puerto Angel, Oaxaca in the south. This distribution aligns with the Mexican Coastal Current, which extends from the Gulf of Tehuantepec in Oaxaca to the entrance of the Gulf of California and southern Baja California.

The development of technology led to the discovery of nanotechnology. Nanoparticles have been key for various applications, one example being environmental purification through photocatalysis. This manuscript presents the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles, taking advantage of the properties provided by Uncaria tomentosa for nanoparticle synthesis. The characterization results of the synthesized nanoparticles show that the organic contents of Uncaria tomentosa remain after the synthesis process. The nanoparticles formed in the wurtzite phase with a band gap of 2.56 eV and an average size of 28 nm. Photocatalytic tests showed degradation of MB dye in 150 min, MO in 30 min, and RB in 150 min.

Large quantities of by-products are generated after processing of rose snapper (Lutjanus guttatus), such as viscera, head, tail, skin, and bones, which are considered a potential source of valuable molecules. Therefore, the aim of the present study was the biochemical characterization of alkaline proteases isolated from the intestines of L. guttatus and the evaluation of their stability against different chemical denaturants (salts, surfactants/reducing agents, organic solvents, and commercial detergent formulations). In addition, the efficiency to hydrolyze proteins from rose snapper wastes (head, tail, skin, and muscle trimmings) by Alcalase® and alkaline protease extract (APE) isolated from Lutjanus guttatus intestine was evaluated. The APE exhibited a maximum activity at pH 12 and 45 °C and high stability at pH and temperature ranges from 9 to 12 and 10 to 40 °C, respectively. Assays with specific protease inhibitors indicated that trypsin and chymotrypsin are the main types of proteases in APE. An 80% of the proteolytic activity was retained in the presence of 25% NaCl and was stable in the presence of the reducing agent DTT; however, it lost around 70% of proteolytic activity in the presence of 2-mercaptoethanol. The enzymatic activity of APE was maintained above 60% in methanol, ethanol, and propanol as well as in liquid commercial detergents. Alkaline proteases from rose snapper exhibited higher hydrolytic efficiency, compared to the microbial enzyme Alcalase when protein from L. guttatus wastes were hydrolyzed. According to these results, the integral exploitation of rose snapper could be reached by proper usage of its by-products, creating a baseline to promote circular economy.

Introduction: The awareness concept can be associated with the decision-making process of young people regarding their health. Currently, there is not much precision in the literature on the use of empirical indicators that would help to understand their relevance in the field of health care. Nursing plays an important role by using objective tools that help promote healthy behaviors based on consciousness. Objective: Identify, through a systematic bibliographic search, the reliability and validity of measurement instruments based on consciousness seen as a cognitive process, perception, comprehension and projection in young people. Methodology: Systematic review according to the criteria established by PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses); the search was carried out in Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Citation Index, Social Sciences Citation Index and Ovid. It took place in the period ranged by June-September 2022, using the descriptors Adolescent and Tools and Awareness. From 923 potential articles found, a sample of 10 were selected, published in Spanish and English that addressed consciousness or one of its levels. Results: The articles were of a methodological type that made reference to the first level of consciousness, that is, perception. No studies were found that addressed comprehension and projection, substantive elements to know the state of consciousness in the health area. Conclusion: There is a need to have measurement tools that address consciousness in a comprehensive manner, that is, as a cognitive process that includes perception, comprehension and projection, essential elements for making decisions in young people with respect to their health.