Francisco de Paula Santander University

Acid mine drainage (AMD) is an important source of environmental pollution that affects water quality and biodiversity in areas near mining activities. This study evaluated the efficiency of the treatment of AMD with lime ash, through physicochemical analysis and toxicity tests on the bioindicator Pisum sativum L. Samples of AMD were collected in a mining area of Norte de Santander and characterized physicochemically in terms of Al, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Pb concentrations, as well as pH. The AMD was treated with lime ash to evaluate its ability to neutralize pH (2.3 ± 0.1–7.2 ± 0.7) and remove metals. Toxicity tests showed that the lime ash treatment was able to neutralize pH and significantly reduce metal concentrations, with removal efficiencies greater than 97.2%. In addition, P. sativum showed improved germination, root growth, mitotic index, and a reduction in the frequency of chromosomal abnormalities after treatment. This approach proves to be an effective strategy to reduce AMD contamination, improving physicochemical parameters and decreasing toxicity in model organisms. Further long-term studies are recommended to optimize the process and ensure its effectiveness in the restoration of ecosystems affected by mining.

The use of herbicides is increasing because they are essential to ensure food safety, especially in the increasing need for food production. However, their misapplication leads to significant environmental problems. This study aimed to determine the cytotoxic effect of picloram on the bioindicator L. culinaris. Nine doses of picloram (0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 5 mg/L) were evaluated for their impact on root growth, mitotic index, and frequency of chromosomal abnormalities. Treatment with 5 mg/L picloram significantly inhibited root growth (0.24 ± 0.1 cm, 0.4 ± 0.1 cm, and 0.5 ± 0.15 cm at 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively) and reduced the mitotic index (5.2 ± 10.8), evidencing an interference in cell division. The frequency of chromosomal abnormalities increased with higher concentrations of picloram, suggesting a genotoxic effect even at low concentrations. These findings highlight the need to thoroughly evaluate the effects of herbicides on various aspects of plant development and cellular integrity to gain a more complete understanding of their toxicity and the environmental risks associated with them. Graphical Abstract

Background Internal displacement and cross-country migration are an increasing global phenomenon drawing the attention of politicians and the public. Causes and effects on the migrants and receptor populations are varied and often shaped by immigration laws and how migrants and refugees are being dealt with by local conditions, policy frameworks and by the host population (receptors). The massive influx of Venezuelan migrants into Colombia for more than a decade has characteristics which warrant a systematic analysis to identify contextual and individual factors favouring and hindering the well-being of migrants and their new Colombian neighbours of the receptor population. Methods A household interview survey was conducted in two cities of the Colombo-Venezuelan border: Cucuta and Valledupar. The survey included 412 migrant families, comprising 1656 individuals, and 317 Colombian neighbour families, totalling 1077 individuals. Only migrants staying in the border area for more than 6 months and excluding “short term migrants” who cross the border only for getting treatment or schooling for their children. We used systematic sampling in neighbourhoods with the highest concentration of migrants. The sampling interval was set at every 7 and 6 migrant households. Ethical approval was obtained by the ethics committees of the three participating universities and the local health authority. Results Venezuelan migrants were younger than their Colombian neighbours (22.04 and 28.69 years respectively). The primary reason for migration among these individuals was economic (84.1%) and much less for political reasons (< 10%); about half of them had entered the country through an irregular crossings, known locally as “trochas”. Within this group, around 28% reported experiencing various forms of violence, particularly physical or verbal aggression, much less sexual assault. Following their arrival, irregular migrants had to go through a regulation (legalization) process in Colombia, with 48.1% having either initiated or completed this process. The target migrants have been living in Colombia for an average of 4.3 years, mostly in poor shelters, just as their Colombian neighbours (64.8% and 53% respectively). Both groups, but particularly the migrants, belonged to the lower socioeconomic strata according to their educational levels and occupations (street vendors including street musicians and entertainers; 21.6% of migrants and 10.6% of Colombian neighbours). They all had stressful life events recently, with economic hardship being the most significant one, especially among migrants. In terms of exposure to physical violence, the rates were almost equal for both groups. However, specific incidents such as theft, assault and intended homicide were more often experienced by the Colombian receptor population. Legal services were often sought by migrants, mostly in a special advice centre for migrants or from international organizations while their Colombian neighbours resorted mainly to national institutions including the police. For health issues migrants had often to go to private services with out-of-pocket payment while the Colombians accessed the health system through the subsidized or pre-paid health insurance. Emotional and psychological symptoms were frequent in both groups but more among migrants. The Colombian respondents had more frequently negative comments about migrants but acknowledged that they were exploited in Colombia and that they contribute to community activities and the local economy. Conclusion Both Venezuelan migrants and their Colombian neighbours suffer significantly from the consequences of poverty and stressful living conditions. As such, they require equal attention from policymakers and public services. This attention should encompass enhanced security in the public spaces, accessible legal advice, and comprehensive health support.

We addressed genomic prediction accounting for partial correlation of marker effects, which entails the estimation of the partial correlation network/graph (PCN) and the precision matrix of an unobservable m‐dimensional random variable. To this end, we developed a set of statistical models and methods by extending the canonical model selection problem in Gaussian concentration, and directed acyclic graph models. Our frequentist formulations combined existing methods with the EM algorithm and were termed Glasso‐EM, Concord‐EM and CSCS‐EM, whereas our Bayesian formulations corresponded to hierarchical models termed Bayes G‐Sel and Bayes DAG‐Sel. We implemented our methods in a real bull fertility dataset and then carried out gene annotation of seven markers having the highest degrees in the estimated PCN. Our findings brought biological evidence supporting the usefulness of identifying genomic regions that are highly connected in the inferred PCN. Moreover, a simulation study showed that some of our methods can accurately recover the PCN (accuracy up to 0.98 using Concord‐EM), estimate the precision matrix (Concord‐EM yielded the best results) and predict breeding values (the best reliability was 0.85 for a trait with heritability of 0.5 using Glasso‐EM).

Fibers were extracted from the pseudostem of the plantain of the variety Hartón, belonging to the order Zingiberales, family Musaceae, genus Musa, species Musa paradisiaca. The fibers were exposed to alkaline treatment to improve their physicomechanical properties for use as reinforcement in green composites. NaOH solutions of 4 %, 5 %, and 6 % by weight were prepared. The fibers were immersed for 2 h in each solution. Fibers were washed with acetic acid to remove NaOH residues and dried at room temperature. Weight loss and lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose content were evaluated. FTIR, tensile, and elongation tests were performed. SEM images and EDS mapping allowed to conclude the phenomena that occurred in the treatments. The untreated fibers obtained a tensile strength of 37.23 MPa, in contrast to 104.26 MPa obtained by the fibers treated with 5 % NaOH solution. It was concluded that the partial elimination of impurities and waxes improved the mechanical behavior of the fibers by 180 %. Regarding elongation, the fibers treated with 4 % NaOH solution obtained the best result with 3.7 %. It was determined that the partial elimination of lignin favors elongation by 48 %. Excessive hemicellulose removal was found to cause fibril separation and detachment. Considerable contraction of vascular bundles occurred. Roughness in the fibers surface topography were improved.

The increasing presence of drugs in the environment has triggered a pollution crisis on a global scale, generating concern about their ecotoxicological effects on ecosystems. In this context, minoxidil, a vasodilator drug widely used in the treatment of androgenic alopecia, has been scarcely investigated in plant systems. Therefore, this study evaluated the morphological and cytotoxic effects of minoxidil on Phaseolus vulgaris L as a bioindicator. P. vulgaris seeds were exposed to different concentrations of minoxidil (0.0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, 1.25, 2.5 and 5 mg/L) and parameters such as germination, root growth, mitotic index and frequency of chromosomal abnormalities were assessed. The results showed a significant inhibition of germination (75–76%) and root growth (52.6–55.3%) at high concentrations of minoxidil (2.55 mg/L-5 mg/L). In addition, a decrease in the mitotic index (8.2) and an increase in the frequency of chromosomal abnormalities (10.2) were observed, suggesting a cytotoxic effect. These findings show that minoxidil, even at low concentrations, can have adverse effects on the morphology and cell division of P. vulgaris. This study demonstrates the potential of plants as tools to evaluate the phytotoxicity and cytotoxicity of drugs and highlights the need to implement measures to reduce the contamination of these drugs in the environment.

The coffee sector stands as a cornerstone of Colombia’s economy, ranking third in the nation’s export portfolio. Despite the Colombian coffee esteemed global reputation, it has yet to fully exploit its potential for diversification into differentiated products. Present agro-industrial paradigms emphasize trade and sustainable, efficient agricultural practices, underscoring the imperative for innovation across production, marketing, and distribution channels. This study aims to pinpoint the pivotal innovation factors within coffee farm production processes. To this end, a sample of 66 coffee farms was selected through simple random sampling. Drawing from the 2018 Oslo model, innovation types associated with sustainable specialty coffee certifications were delineated. Within this framework, seven fundamental factors emerged for investigation: economic, social, environmental, production, knowledge, technology, and change management. Through cluster analysis, it became evident that economic, environmental, knowledge, technological, and change management factors are indispensable for fortifying the coffee industry.

Background: Despite advancements in gender equality within neurosurgery, the field continues to encounter challenges related to the underrepresentation of women and reports of gender-based disparities. This study examines the impact of these disparities on the experiences, professional development, and well-being of female neurosurgery residents in Germany, identifying specific challenges within the neurosurgical community. Methods: An anonymous, questionnaire-based survey was conducted among female neurosurgery residents from various German training hospitals nationwide, utilizing a quantitative approach. Data were collected from June 2021 to January 2023. Results: A total of 63 female neurosurgery residents participated, representing about 19% of all female neurosurgery residents in Germany. Seventy percent reported experiencing incidents of discrimination during training, with 39% encountering "sometimes" emotional abuse, 20% physical abuse, and 17% "rarely" experiencing sexual harassment. Eighty-six percent did not report these incidents, primarily due to doubts about reporting effectiveness (24%) and the belief that reporting would not lead to change (24%). Discrimination significantly impacted job satisfaction (56%) and career progression (71%). Additionally, 60% reported frequent frustration, 52% experienced occasional depression, and burnout was common. Conclusions: The survey highlights gender disparities affecting female neurosurgery residents in Germany, negatively influencing job satisfaction and career advancement. Tackling gender discrimination and harassment requires a multi-faceted approach, and further studies are warranted to assess these methods. The neurosurgical community must ensure a supportive environment by adopting no-tolerance policies against discrimination for all residents, paving the way for a future where professional excellence and patient care are free from gender inequalities.

Ground water tanks are known to be preferred Aedes aegypti oviposition places providing opportunities for adult and larvae control. Therefore, a dual‐effect insecticidal coating (IC) (alphacypermethrin/ pyriproxyfen) with a slow‐release mechanism and safe for users could be applied within Aedes spp. breeding sites, representing a promising option. Bioassays were designed to determine the mortality and sterilizing effects on gravid mosquitoes exposed to IC. The effect of inhibition of emergence was evaluated in eggs, larvae and pupae exposed in different containers. For the water safety assessment concentrations of active ingredients were determined by reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) and the health risk was calculated. The IC applied to the interior walls of water‐holding containers showed efficacy against Ae. aegypti in terms of high gravid‐female mortality (81% at 24 h, p < 0.01), sterilizing effect (inhibition of oviposition by 63%, p < 0.01) and emergence inhibition (100% in eggs, L3 and L4; 97% in pupae). The offspring rate was reduced [only 0.15 (38/250) new adults emerged per exposed gravid females as against 11.90 per unexposed female (2976/250) at baseline]. Emergence inhibition was recorded up to 12 months and adult mortality >80% up to 6 months. The use of water stored in treated containers, either for washing or drinking, is not expected to pose a health risk to users. IC applied to domestic water containers has dual and complementary action that reduces Ae. aegypti densities (immature and adult stages). This represents baseline information for a cluster randomized efficacy trial in Colombia.

Crude palm oil (CPO) is commonly used in the oil industry. This study presents a comparison of the structural, rheological, and thermal properties of clarified CPO (CCPO) sample obtained using the conventional method and ultrasound-assisted (UA)-treated samples. These samples were obtained in the pressed (press liquor, PL), sifted (sifted liquor, SL), and clarification (outlet sludge, OS) stages. The frequencies used for the UA-treated samples were 40 and 80 kHz for 30 min. The PL and SL samples exhibited higher resistance to oxidative deterioration and nutritional quality than the CCPO sample did. The maximum oil extractability percentage (OEP) of the UA-treated samples relative to that of CCPO was 7.4 %. The bleachability index (DOBI) values of the UA-treated samples were higher (between 2.06 and 2.58) than that of the CCPO sample (1.43). However, the viscosity ( η ) displayed opposite trend. The thermal stability did not exhibit consistent patterns with increasing frequency.

Recycled polypropylene (rPP)/crystalline cellulose (rPP/CC) composites are promising alternatives for reducing the detrimental environmental consequences of virgin PP. However, the incompatibility of the rPP/CC composites hinders their widespread application. In this study, PP functionalized with maleinized hyperbranched polyol polyester (PP‐ g ‐MHBP) was used as a compatibilizing and plasticizing agent for the rPP/CC composites. Furthermore, the effect of PP‐ g ‐MHBP content on the rheological, thermal, morphological, and mechanical properties of the rPP/CC composites was evaluated. The composites were prepared at a mixing speed of 50 rpm for 7 min and the PP‐ g ‐MHBP content was varied between 0 and 20 wt%. The torque stabilization time was less than 1 min. The activation energy of flow () decreased with increasing PP‐ g ‐MHBP content, with its values ranging from 0.78 × 10 ² to 1.42 × 10 ² kcal.mol ⁻¹ . The flow index () followed the opposite trend with values ranging from 0.55 ± 0.0030 to 0.85 ± 0.0010. PP‐ g ‐MHBP enhanced the processability, thermal stability and conductivity. The crystallinity, interactions between rPP and CC, and tensile modulus of the rPP/CC composites were also enhanced. Furthermore, it reduced the agglomeration of CC particles. Highlights The torque stabilization was lowest for all composites. The composites displayed low activation energy of flow. Recycled polypropylene and crystalline cellulose exhibited good interaction. The plasticizing effect was higher than that of compatibilization. The thermal stability and mechanical properties of the composites improved.

Stress–strain curve knowledge is of great interest due to the different parameters, conditions, and applications to which the materials are exposed in the different industrial sectors. The objective of this research work is to develop an experimental analysis of strain hardening on AISI 1045 and 304-grade materials, modifying the superficial mechanical properties through quenching and annealing heat treatments, and thus carry out the tensile tests considering the parameters established by the ASTM E−8 standard under different percentages of hardening by plastic deformation (20 and 40% strain hardening) using a total number of 45 samples for the general experimental set. The results exposed an improvement in the material’s mechanical properties as a function of the hardening percentage of the material, also related to the heat treatment. Finally, it was possible to find that the material’s yield stress increased significantly up to 100% (from 376 to 607 MPa) for 40% strain hardening to the original material (as received), related to the strain hardening capacity mathematically calculated.

Crime, in general, is at the base of crucial issues for many societies living in large cities worldwide. Indeed, crime and neighbourhood disorder may negatively impact the health of urban residents. Thus, the crime rate reduction is at the core of many local policies driven by active plans supported by police action and local authorities. Considering crime reports as a spatio-temporal point pattern, we propose spatio-temporal log-Gaussian Cox processes as a modelling framework for crimes in space and time. We model the spatial and temporal variation through generalized parametric additive and linear models, and a Gaussian space-time process approximates the residual variation. The inference is performed via Markov chain Monte Carlo through MALA algorithms. We provide short-term forecasts of future crimes and suggest a surveillance system that operates by reporting predictive probabilities. Our data come from the reported crimes in the locality of Kennedy (Bogota) over several years and several types of crimes. The police department may use our method to help allocate police resources and design crime prevention strategies and policies, such as surveillance, in specific zonal planning units.

Milk production in tropical regions plays a crucial role both economically and socially. Typically, animals are utilized for dual purposes and are genetically obtained by an intense crossbreeding between Zebu and/or locally adapted breeds, alongside specialized breeds for dairy production. However, uncontrolled mating and crossbreeding may affect the establishment of an effective animal breeding program. The objective of this study was to evaluate Genomic diversity of highly crossbred cattle population in a Low and Middle Tropical environment. All sampled animals were genotyped using the Genessek GGP Bovine 100 chip (n = 859) and public genomic information from eight breeds were employed as reference. The genetic structure of the population was estimated using a Principal Component, Bayesian clustering and a linkage disequilibrium analysis. PCA results revealed that PC1 explained 44.39% of the variation, associated with the indicus/taurus differentiation, and PC2 explained 14.6% of the variation, attributed to the differentiation of Creole and European components. This analysis underscored a low population structure, attributed to the absence of genealogical tracking and the implementation of non-directed crossbreeding. The clustering shows an average contribution of Zebu, Creole, and European Taurine components in the population was 53.26%, 27.60%, and 19.13%, respectively. While an average LD of 0.096 was obtained for a maximum distance of 400 kb. The LD value was low in this population, probably due to the almost no selection applied and the recombination events that occurred during its development. These findings underscore the value of crossbreeding in tropical dairy production but emphasize the importance of directing the mattings.