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Abstract Background Evidence shows that motivational practices focused on utility, importance, and autonomy shape university students’ motivational orientation toward learning. On the other hand, the relationship between these variables and motivational orientation toward learning is not linear and requires models that describe their behavior over time. Method In this study, mathematical modeling based on system dynamics methodology is used to simulate in health students the temporal dynamics of the motivational orientation toward learning based on the behavior of these variables in different scenarios. Results The results indicate that a) Mastery is sensitive to changes in frequency when importance and autonomy practices are performed; b) the development of Mastery is critical in the first three semesters of academic life, but its loss is hardly recoverable even when practices are incorporated in subsequent semesters; c) Utility-focused motivational practices have no significant effect on the development of learning-oriented motivation. Conclusion These findings have significant practical implications for higher education. Understanding the critical role of Mastery in the early stages of academic life and the limited potential for recovery if lost can help raise awareness of the importance of early implementation of motivational practices focused on relevance and autonomy.

Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) are a group of parasites that are globally distributed and are the most prevalent neglected disease (NTD) in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC); their presence is associated with health and development problems. In Argentina, their distribution is heterogenous, and there are highly endemic areas in the north of the country. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the mass deworming of children as a first-line strategy for the prevention and control of STHs and recently also encourage the development of more sensitive diagnostic tests. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of STHs in Tartagal (Salta, Argentina) after four years of deworming interruption with albendazole and ivermectin. A total of 437 fecal samples were analyzed using standard coprological techniques, a subset of which were selected to molecularly typify protozoan parasites; 257 blood samples were analyzed for the presence of specific antibodies to the STH Strongyloides stercoralis. The most prevalent protozoan species were G. intestinalis (19.6–49.2%) and B. hominis (19.1–38.5%). Molecular characterization allowed us to evidence possible zoonotic or human-to-human transmission pathways for Giardia intestinalis or Blastocystis spp., while serology for S. stercoralis proved to be a useful screening tool for monitoring this parasite after treatment. In general, a decrease in the prevalence of STHs was observed in the area, from 60% to 2.9–20% for hookworms and from 51% to 1–9.3% for S. stercoralis four years after treatment, demonstrating the effectiveness and duration of anthelmintic treatment with these two drugs.

BackgroundThe quality assessment of the home-based isolation and care program (HBIC) relies heavily on patient satisfaction and length of stay. COVID-19 patients who were isolated and received HBIC were monitored through telephone consultations (TC), in-person TC visits, and a self-reporting application. By evaluating patient satisfaction and length of stay in HBIC, healthcare providers could gauge the effectiveness and efficiency of the HBIC program.MethodsA cross-sectional study design enrolled 444 HBIC patients who answered a structured questionnaire. A binary logistic regression model assessed the association between independent variables and patient satisfaction. The length of stay in HBIC was analyzed using Cox regression analysis. The data collection started on April (1–30), 2022, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.ResultsThe median age was 34, and 247 (55.6%) were females. A greater proportion (313, 70.5%) of the participants had high satisfaction. Higher frequency of calls (>3 calls) (AOR = 2.827, 95% CI = 1.798, 4.443, p = 0.000) and those who were symptomatic (AOR = 2.001, 95% CI = 1.289, 3.106, p = 0.002) were found to be significant factors for high user satisfaction. Higher frequency of calls (>3 calls) (AHR = 0.537, 95% CI = 0.415, 0.696, p = 0.000) and more in-person visits (>1 visit) (AHR = 0.495, 95% CI = 0.322, 0.762, p = 0.001) had greater chances to reduce the length of stay in the COVID-19 HBIC.Conclusion70.5% of the participants had high satisfaction with the system, and frequent phone call follow-ups on patients’ clinical status can significantly improve their satisfaction and length of recovery. An in-person visit is also an invaluable factor in a patient’s recovery.

Abstract Background Despite the fact that prison inmates are a population at higher risk than other groups of suffering from intestinal parasite infections in relation to their living conditions, information about these diseases in prison environments is still scarce. Herein, we analyze the status of intestinal parasite infections in a Spanish prison. Methods A cross-sectional study involving 528 inmates was conducted from April to June 2022 among inmates at Centro Penitenciario Picassent (Valencia, Spain). Stool specimens were examined using the direct wet mount technique, the formol-ether concentration technique, and the Ziehl-Neelsen staining method. We used STATA 16.1 for data analysis. We consider a p-value less than 0.05 significant at a 95% confidence level. Results Of the 528 inmates (471 men and 57 women; a mean age of 41.94 years) enrolled in the study, 83 (15.7%) were infected. Only six species of protozoa were detected. The gut potential microeukaryotic pathobiont Blastocystis sp. was the predominant parasite, accounting for 37 (44.6%) of the infections. Gut parasite amebas (6.6%) and pathobionts (5.3%) were more prevalent than flagellates (2.3%). The prevalence of infection with pathogenic species (8.9%) was similar to that of non-pathogenic species (8.7%). Infection among men (15.2%) was higher than in women (0.6%) (p

Objective: Longitudinal evaluation of thyroid function throughout pregnancy in the same subject could offer precise information about its dynamics as a physiological mechanism of adaption to the requirements. In this study, we evaluated longitudinal trajectories of maternal thyroid function during pregnancy by a latent class growth analysis and explored their association with maternal–fetal outcomes. Methods: A prospective observational study was carried out, including 414 healthy pregnant women, from the first trimester to delivery. Thyroid function and autoimmunity were measured in the three trimesters. Clinical data during pregnancy were obtained. Longitudinal mixed model techniques were performed to explore trajectories of gestational thyroid function. Results: Three different longitudinal trajectories were obtained from maternal thyrotropin (TSH) levels: low-increasing TSH (class 1) in 86% of cases, high-increasing TSH (class 2) in 9.7%, and decreasing TSH (class 3) in 4.3%. No statistical differences in free thyroxine levels were found among the three classes. Differences in maternal age (P = 0.027) and initial maternal weight (P = 0.043) were observed among the groups. In logistic regression analysis, maternal age correlated with longitudinal trajectories. The three longitudinal classes remain when women with thyroid autoimmunity (TAI) are excluded. Multinomial logistic regression showed maternal age correlated with longitudinal trajectories independently of TAI status. Conclusions: Three differentiated TSH trajectories were found in healthy pregnant women living in Catalonia, as previously described. No association with obstetric outcomes was observed in these different chronological thyroid pathways, but maternal age might condition the longitudinal mechanism of thyroid function regulation throughout pregnancy.

Aims: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Masaya (Nicaragua) to estimate the prevalence of intestinal parasite (IP) infections in patients with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and to determine the associations between the types of NCDs and patients’ epidemiological characteristics of infection. Methods: A total of 157 preserved faecal samples were examined (direct wet mount, formalin/ethyl acetate concentration and modified Ziehl–Neelsen technique). Microscopically positive faecal sample identification was completed by conducting a molecular study. Results: The total prevalence of IP was 52% in NCD patients. Diabetic patients presented an IP prevalence of 42%. Blastocystis presented the highest prevalence (42%). A molecular analysis of Giardia intestinalis (prevalence of 1.3%) revealed 100% of sub-assemblage BIII and the Entamoeba complex (5%) was identified as E. dispar. Blastocystis ST1 appeared in 44% of those suffering from diabetes and ST3 in 66% of those suffering from hypertension, while ST2 only appeared in those suffering with several NCDs simultaneously. In diabetic patients, the risk of infection is associated with having pets (p = 0.021) and land-floor houses. The risk of infection appears to be statistically related (p = 0.019) in those with several NCDs having received a previous helminthic deworming treatment. Conclusions: Coordinated public health activities for IP and NCD screening and diagnosis are crucial to their successful control programmes.

This study compares the predictive ability of nine different types of motivational practices on the motivational orientation toward learning. Given the nature of undergraduate studies, identifying the most predictive motivational variables on learning orientation allows us to focus our efforts on those motivational practices to guide students to deploy their cognitive resources by focusing on learning and not only on obtaining good grades. The study included Chilean university students from health (n = 398) and education (n = 365) programs. A Bayesian multiple regression was carried out in both groups. The results show strong evidence of a specific effect of motivational practices on motivational orientation towards learning. Although the impact on motivational orientation toward learning may vary slightly across different fields of study, the primary predictors consistently are practices that emphasize importance and foster autonomy. The effect of utility-focused motivational practices is observed only within the predictive model for the group of health students.

BackgroundSoil-transmitted helminths (STHs) are widely distributed throughout the world. Various factors, including the environment, socioeconomic characteristics, and access to water and sanitation, play an important role in the spread and persistence of these parasites within communities. They, in turn, affect the growth and development of members of the community, especially children. Studies in the northern provinces of Argentina have shown variable prevalence of STHs, but the factors associated with their presence have not been completely elucidated. ObjectiveThis cross-sectional study aimed to identify the socioeconomic and environmental factors related to STH infection in indigenous villages located in Puerto Iguazú (Misiones), Argentina. MethodsBetween 2018 and 2019, stool samples were collected from individuals ≥1 year residing in 3 villages: Mini-Marangatú, Yriapú, and Fortín Mbororé. Standard parasitological methods were used to determine STH prevalence. Standardized questionnaires were used to assess participants’ habits, customs, and household characteristics, and environmental data were obtained through satellite imagery. Multilinear regression with Akaike information criterion stepwise variables was used to explore relevant associations. ResultsA total of 342 individuals from the 3 villages participated in this study. The prevalence of STHs varied across villages: 89.6% (43/48), in Mini-Marangatú, 80.8% (101/125) in Yriapú, and 68.5% (115/169) in Fortín Mbororé. Notably, there was a significant difference in hookworm infection among the villages (P=.02). The analysis highlighted the significant influence of specific environmental factors on STH presence and spatial distribution, particularly in relation to hookworm infection. Vegetation patterns represented by the Vegetation Heterogeneity Index, created ad hoc for this study, emerged as a critical factor, with 2 significant predictors related to it (P=.002 and P=.004) alongside impervious surface density with a significant predictor (P

Abstract There is a lack of epidemiological information concerning intestinal parasitic infections, and especially in soil-transmitted helminths, occurring in some departments of Nicaragua. Up to now, this is the first study involving two nearby areas (Puerto Cabezas and Siuna municipalities) of the Región Autónoma Atlántico Norte (R.A.A.N.). One stool sample was analyzed by Kato-Katz, formaldehyde-ethyl acetate concentration method and modified Ziehl–Neelsen technique, and a simple questionnaire concerning demographic, sanitary and behavioral data was distributed among 735 children and evaluated. Overall prevalence of infection reached 97.0%, being the highest prevalences detected in all Nicaragua. The higher protozoan prevalence appears in Siuna (94.5%), a rural interior municipality, with a typical tropical monsoon climate, while the higher helminths rates were reached in Puerto Cabezas (92.8%), the urbanized coastal capital, with a typical tropical rainforest climate. No statistical differences were found with regard to sex. However, the 6–11-year age-group children presented the highest prevalences. Most T. trichiura infections (59.4%) were of light intensity, while 51.7% of Ascaris lumbricoides were of moderate intensity. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that those who drink rainwater and walk barefoot were 2.9 and 2.5 times more likely to have helminth infections, respectively. Results from one geographical setting might not be applied to other nearby with different climatic conditions. The use of anthelmintic drugs only will not be sufficient to bring prevalence to low levels. It is necessary to design geographically more specific intervention, with communication and interaction between different disciplines (e.g. parasitology, biochemistry, molecular biology, epidemiology, public health, etc.) being imperative to reduce STH infection.

Abstract Background Intestinal parasites (IPs) are widely distributed worldwide and are one of the major contributors to gastrointestinal disease. Their prevalence is associated with poor access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). The objective of this study was to identify the prevalence of IPs, including soil-transmitted helminths (STH), and their relation to socioeconomic characteristics, as well as a first approach to molecularly characterize the types of Giardia intestinalis, Blastocystis spp. and Entamoeba histolytica present in an indigenous community from Puerto Iguazú, Misiones, Argentina. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in the rural settlement of Fortin Mbororé between January and March 2018. Socioeconomic variables, household characteristics, and stool and blood samples were collected. Standard coprological techniques were used to analyze stool samples, and a complete hemogram was performed on the blood samples. Giardia intestinalis microscopy-positive samples were genetically typed by the β-giardin (bg) gene. Molecular identification of Blastocystis spp. subtypes and E. histolytica were carried out by amplification and sequencing of a partial fragment of the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (SSU rDNA). Results The overall prevalence of IPs was 92.7%, with 72.0% specifically for hookworm. IPs were significantly more prevalent in preschool- and school-age children (P

Emerging antibiotic contaminants in water is a global problem because bacterial strains resistant to these antibiotics arise, risking human health. This study describes the use of poly[(4-vinylbenzyl) trimethylammonium chloride] and N-alkylated chitosan, two cationic polymers with different natures and structures to remove nalidixic acid. Both contain ammonium salt as a functional group. One of them is a synthetic polymer, and the other is a modified artificial polymer. The removal of the antibiotic was investigated under various experimental conditions (pH, ionic strength, and antibiotic concentration) using the technique of liquid-phase polymer-based retention (LPR). In addition, a stochastic algorithm provided by Fukui’s functions is used. It was shown that alkylated N-chitosan presents 65.0% removal at pH 7, while poly[(4-vinylbenzyl)trimethylammonium chloride] removes 75.0% at pH 9. The interaction mechanisms that predominate the removal processes are electrostatic interactions, π–π interactions, and hydrogen bonding. The polymers reached maximum retention capacities of 1605 mg g−1 for poly[(4-vinylbenzyl) trimethylammonium chloride] and 561 mg g−1 of antibiotic per gram for alkylated poly(N-chitosan). In conclusion, the presence of aromatic groups improves the capacity and polymer–antibiotic interactions.

This study describes family beliefs and practices surrounding early literacy in households from disadvantaged backgrounds and involved 79 families of children aged between 1.5 and 5 years of age from six educational facilities in two regions in southern Chile. Participants answered a questionnaire that aimed to explore family beliefs and practices relating to emergent literacy. The results show high exposure to television during free time and the use of language to regulate behavior. As far as reading practices are concerned, most of those surveyed reported explicitly and systematically teaching their children letters, but most state that they do not read for pleasure. The results support the idea of working in networks with families and developing parental practices that promote early childhood literacy in the home.

Based on a reflection on the tensions between play, education, and learning in early childhood, this article aims to identify and analyze the factors that limit or negatively condition the possibilities for play at school during the transition between early childhood education and primary education in Chile. The study was conducted in four Chilean schools, with the transition levels of Chilean early childhood education (children aged 4 and 5) and the first two levels of primary education (children aged 6 and 7). Based on an ethnographic approach, we combined 22 ethnographic observation days spread over two consecutive years and 59 interviews of various types with children, educators, and parents. The results show structural and material limitations on school play that mainly affect children in primary education. Beyond, factors associated with routines, indications, and statements governing functioning and participation in this level tend to limit or prevent play, often considered a “non-legitimate” activity. Conclusions highlight the potentialities that children’s restricted or resisted play can present in terms of learning.

Los neuromitos son creencias sobre el cerebro y su funcionamiento, basadas en argumentaciones pseudocientíficas o malinterpretaciones de ciertos hallazgos. Estas ideas equivocadas pueden tener su origen, entre otros, en la transmisión de información errónea o mal explicada a través de medios masivos de comunicación, en el desconocimiento del lenguaje técnico utilizado en las neurociencias o el acceso limitado a fuentes primarias. Con el objeto de examinar si los resultados de investigaciones previas se replicaban en una muestra de habla hispana de futuro profesorado y así, evaluar el nivel de consciencia sobre neuromitos en esta población, se aplicó una versión traducida al español del cuestionario creado por Dekker et al. (2012). La muestra estuvo compuesta por 99 estudiantes de pedagogía de Chile y España. El instrumento contenía 32 aseveraciones sobre el cerebro y el aprendizaje, 12 de las cuales correspondían a neuromitos. Los resultados muestran una alta adhesión a neuromitos en ambos grupos de futuro personal docente. A pesar de la creciente evidencia que refuta varias de estas concepciones erróneas, los resultados permiten concluir que persiste una brecha de conocimiento neurocientífico en estos grupos. Las consecuencias de una incomprensión o tergiversación del conocimiento científico vigente en la práctica pedagógica nos impelen a insistir en una educación basada en la evidencia. No solo la lectura, sino también la selección e inclusión cuidadosa de fuentes científicas en la formación inicial de docentes son esenciales para formar docentes que lean crítica y reflexivamente para que puedan tomar decisiones pedagógicas fundadas en la evidencia científica disponible.

Este artículo presenta el resultado de una metasíntesis cualitativa de experiencias educativas de la niñez migrante en Chile, realizada a partir del análisis de los principales estándares de cumplimiento de los derechos de los niños y niñas, específicamente de los principios derivados del derecho a la educación. Durante septiembre de 2019 se realizó una revisión sistemática de artículos en las bases de datos Ebscohost, SciELO, Dialnet y Redalyc, principalmente. Se incluyeron artículos originales derivados de investigaciones realizadas en Chile sobre niñez migrante y educación. Los resultados indican que, si bien los principios de acceso y disponibilidad están más bien resueltos en materia de educación, los desafíos radican en fortalecer procesos de inclusión educativa desde una perspectiva intercultural.

Abstract Background The cytokine interleukin-25 (IL-25) is recognized as the most relevant initiator of protective T helper 2 (Th2) responses in intestinal helminth infections. This cytokine induces resistance against several species of intestinal helminths, including the trematode Echinostoma caproni. E. caproni has been extensively used as an experimental model to study the factors determining resistance to intestinal infections. In the study reported here, we assessed the role of IL-25 in the generation of resistance in mice infected with E. caproni. Methods The factors that determine the production of IL-25 in mice experimentally infected with E. caproni were determined, as were the consequences of IL-25 production in terms of polarization of the immune response and resistance to infection. Results Our results show that the role of IL-25 in the polarization of the immune response differs between the primary and secondary immune responses. IL-25 is required for the development of a Th2 phenotype in primary E. caproni infections, but it can also promote the differentiation to Th2 memory cell subsets that enhance type-2 immunity in memory responses. However, the development of Th2 responses does not induce resistance to infection. The Th2 phenotype does not elicit resistance, and IL-25 is responsible for the resistance regardless of its type-2 cytokine activity and activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT6). Alternative activation of macrophages induced by IL-25 can be implicated in the resistance to infection. Conclusions In contrast to primary infection, secondary infection elicits a type-2 immune response even in the absence of IL-25 expression. Despite the development of a type-2 response, mice are susceptible to secondary infection associated with the lack of IL-25. Resistance to infection is due to the production of IL-25, which acts autonomously from Th2 response in terms of parasite clearance.

Personal assistance for people with intellectual disabilities can contribute to the application of the new paradigms of self-determination and social inclusion and to an improvement in the quality of life. Through a literature review and analysis with professional experts, experts from experience and potential users, a brief model of personal assistance was developed to be executed by community agents with professional supervision. The model considers activities in the usual spaces of people and their families, with support for the use of community formal and informal resources and the reinforcement of social support networks that continue operating once the intervention ends. With duration of 9 months, the model is developed through a 3-stage process: 1) engagement and formulation of an individualized plan, 2) implementation of the plan, and 3) participants’ learning reinforcement and transfer to support networks. The feasibility of the model in Latin American countries and the need for studies to evaluate its implementation are discussed.

Abstract Background Echinostoma caproni (Trematoda: Echinostomatidae) is an intestinal trematode, which has been extensively used to investigate the factors that determine the rejection of intestinal helminths. In this sense, several studies have shown that IL-25 is critical for the development of resistance against E. caproni in mice. In fact, treatment of mice with recombinant IL-25 generates resistance against primary E. caproni infection. However, the mechanisms by which IL-25 induces resistance remain unknown. Methods To study the mechanisms responsible for resistance elicited by IL-25, we analyzed the ileal proteomic changes induced by IL-25 in mice and their potential role in resistance. To this purpose, we compared the protein expression profiles in the ileum of four experimental groups of mice: naïve controls; E. caproni-infected mice; rIL-25-treated mice; and rIL-25-treated mice exposed to E. caproni metacercariae. Results Quantitative comparison by 2D-DIGE showed significant changes in a total of 41 spots. Of these, 40 validated protein spots were identified by mass spectrometry corresponding to 24 proteins. Conclusions Our results indicate that resistance to infection is associated with the maintenance of the intestinal epithelial homeostasis and the regulation of proliferation and cell death. These results provide new insights into the proteins involved in the regulation of tissue homeostasis after intestinal infection and its transcendence in resistance.

BackgroundRwanda is a sub-Saharan country, where intestinal parasite infections, anemia and undernutrition coexist. The purpose of this research is to study the relationship between intestinal parasite infections and undernutrition/anemia to clarify the priorities of intervention in the rural area of Gakenke district in the Northern Province of Rwanda.Materials and methodsA total of 674 students from Nemba I School, participated in a cross-sectional study, in which their parasitological and nutritional status were analysed. Statistical analysis was performed by χ2 test, univariate analysis and Odds ratios (OR).ResultsA total of 95.3% of children presented intestinal parasitism, most of whom (94.5%) infected by protozoa and 36.1% infected by soil-transmitted helminths (STH), with Trichuris trichiura (27.3%) being the most prevalent. Multiple infections were found to be high (83.8%), with protozoa and STH co-infections in 30.6%. STH infections were mainly of low/moderate intensity. Neither infection nor STH infection of any intensity profile, was significantly related to anemia. In addition, STH infection, regardless of the intensity profile, was not associated with stunting, underweight or thinness. There was no difference between genders nor among ages in odds of anemia and nutritional status in STH-infected schoolchildren.ConclusionMultiparasitism remains high among Rwandan schoolchildren and is likely to cause nutritional problems. This work emphasizes the importance of keeping up health programs to reduce the prevalence of infection.

Aun cuando el juego ha sido ampliamente reconocido como práctica social y cultural en la que el niño aprende naturalmente, parece más bien estar ausente de las prácticas educativas. En este contexto, el presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo explorar la motivación de los profesores por la utilización del juego en contexto educativo. Para ello, se realizó un estudio en dos etapas. En la primera fueron encuestados 221 profesores de Educación Básica (primaria) por medio de la Escala de Motivación por el uso del Juego (EMJ), estructurada a partir del modelo motivacional de Expectativa / Valor; y, en una segunda etapa, se indagó acerca de las concepciones que sostienen estos profesores sobre el juego a través de cuatro grupos focales. Los resultados cuantitativos muestran, pese a la alta valoración en los distintos componentes de la motivación, diferencias significativas entre ellos, siendo la dimensión más valorada la de utilidad, mientras que las más descendidas corresponden a los componentes de expectativa y costo. Estos resultados son consistentes con los discursos de los profesores, en los que emergen el costo de tiempo que lleva la implementación del juego y la falta de conocimientos para esa implementación como los factores gravitantes para su inclusión efectiva en aula. Adicionalmente, se destaca una concepción de juego vaga e inespecífica, que, junto con los elementos anteriores, llama a formar de manera explícita a los futuros profesores en el uso e incorporación del juego como recurso educativo.

Three recent studies of Blastocystis epidemiology in mammalian hosts identified four novel sequences that appeared to share B. lapemi as the most similar sequence. However, full-length ssu rRNA gene sequences were not available to confirm the validity of these new subtypes. In the present study, Nanopore MinION sequencing was used to obtain full-length reference sequences for each of the new subtypes. Additionally, phylogenetic analyses and pairwise distance comparisons were performed to confirm the validity of each of these new subtypes. We propose that the novel sequences described in this study should be assigned the subtype designations ST35-ST38. The full-length reference sequences of ST35-ST38 will assist in accurate sequence descriptions in future studies of Blastocystis epidemiology and subtype diversity.

Nodular fascitis is a benign pseudosarcomatous self-limited fibroblastic and myofibroblastic cell neoplasia that occasionally can be found in pediatric patients, in who head and neck is reported to be a common location. Although nodular fascitis could be suspected by imaging, histologic review is mandatory to certificate the diagnosis and rule out malignant conditions of similar behavior. We report the case of an infant girl with a big, solid, left submandibular mass with a rapidly progressive growth that erodes mandibular body. The diagnosis is proven by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. The lesion does not respond to triamcinolone intralesional infiltration and is finally surgically resected by a transcervical approach with good results and no recurrence at follow-up.

Cysticercosis is a parasitic infection caused by the metacestode larval stage (cysticercus) of Taenia solium. In humans, cysticercosis may infect the central nervous system and cause neurocysticercosis, which is responsible for over 50,000 deaths per year worldwide and is the major cause of preventable epilepsy cases, especially in low-income countries. Cysticercosis infection is endemic in many less developed countries where poor hygiene conditions and free-range pig management favor their transmission. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 680 children from a rural primary school in Gakenke district (Northern province of Rwanda). Stool samples were collected from participants and analyzed using the Kato-Katz method (KK), formol-ether concentration (FEC), and/or copro-antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (CoAg-ELISA) to detect taeniasis. Blood samples were collected and analyzed using enzyme-linked immunoelectrotransfer blot (EITB) and antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Ag-ELISA) to detect human cysticercosis. The overall proportion of taeniasis positivity was 0.3% (2/680), and both cases were also confirmed by CoAg-ELISA. A total of 13.3% (76/572) of the children studied were positive to cysticercosis (T. solium-specific serum antibodies detected by EITB), of whom 38.0% (27/71) had viable cysticercus (T. solium antigens by Ag-ELISA). This study provides evidence of the highest cysticercosis prevalence reported in Rwanda in children to date. Systematic investigations into porcine and human cysticercosis as well as health education and hygiene measures for T. solium control are needed in Gakenke district.

El presente análisis cuantitativo caracteriza y contrasta las lógicas bajo las cuales se otorga sentido a aprender en el contexto escolar chileno. Para realizarlo se consideró una muestra de 181 alumnos de ambos sexos de tercer año medio (K11), de nivel socioeconómico bajo y alto, de la ciudad de Santiago de Chile. Adicionalmente se consideró, para fines comparativos, una muestra de 207 profesores en formación y 297 en ejercicio. Se contrastaron los perfiles de estudiantes de nivel socioeconómico alto y bajo, y de ellos respecto a profesores. Los resultados muestran diferencias en los dos casos. Especialmente relevante es que estas se acentúan cuando se trata de alumnos de nivel socioeconómico bajo. Finalmente, se discuten estos hallazgos y las implicancias de las valoraciones disímiles entre profesores y estudiantes respecto a los motivos para aprender en la escuela.

Abstract Background Intestinal protozoan parasites are major contributors to the global burden of gastrointestinal disease causing significant socioeconomic consequences. Children living in resource-poor settings with restricted access to water and sanitary services are particularly at risk of these infections. Methods A prospective, community-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted in Paraná (southern Brazil) between May 2015 and May 2016. A total of 766 stool samples were individually collected from volunteers (male/female ratio: 0.99; age range: 0–76 years) and used for investigating the presence of intestinal helminth and protozoan species by routine microscopic procedures including the Kato-Katz and modified Ritchie concentration methods and the Ziehl-Neelsen stain technique. Quantitative real-time PCR confirmed microscopy-positive samples for Giardia duodenalis and the assemblages and sub-assemblages determined by multilocus sequence-based genotyping of the glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) and β-giardin (bg) genes of the parasite. Identification of Blastocystis subtypes was carried out by amplification and sequencing of a partial fragment of the small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene (SSU rDNA) of this heterokont microorganism. Results Overall, 46.1% (353/766) of the participants were infected/colonised by at least one intestinal parasite/commensal species. Protozoan and helminth species were detected in 42.7% and 10.1% of the surveyed population, respectively. Blastocystis sp. (28.2%), Endolimax nana (14.9%), and Giardia duodenalis (11.0%) were the most prevalent species found among protozoans and Ascaris lumbricoides (5.0%), Trichuris trichiura (4.6%) and hookworms (1.0%) among helminths. A total of 38 G. duodenalis-positive samples were genotyped at gdh and bg markers, revealing the presence of the sub-assemblages AII (47.4%), AII/AIII (2.6%), BIII (5.3%), BIV (26.3%) and BIII/BIV (13.1%). Two samples (5.3%) were only identified as assemblage B. AII was predominantly found in females aged 5–9 years and was associated with a higher likelihood of reporting gastrointestinal symptoms. A total of 102 Blastocystis-positive samples were successfully subtyped at the SSU rRNA gene revealing the presence of ST1 (36.3%), ST2 (15.7%), ST3 (41.2%), ST4 (2.9%), ST6 (1.0%) and ST8 (2.9%). Conclusions Data presented here indicate that enteric parasites still represent a pressing health concern in Paraná, Brazil, probably due to sub-optimal water, sanitation and hygiene conditions. A mostly anthroponotic origin is suspected for G. duodenalis and Blastocystis sp. infections.

Human populations living in the surrounding urban areas of large Brazilian cities have increased vulnerability to intestinal parasites. However, the epidemiological scenario of soil-transmitted helminths (STH) in Curitiba, Paraná’s main city, remains largely unknown. To bridge this gap of knowledge, this study aims to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and to investigate potential transmission pathways of the most prevalent species detected. We conducted a cross-sectional epidemiological study between July and September 2014 among schoolchildren in urban and peri-urban (deprived) areas of the municipality of Campo do Tenente, Curitiba. A total of 549 stool samples were used for coproparasitological diagnosis. Microscopy-positive samples of the most common species found were re-assessed by PCR and sequencing methods at the small subunit rRNA gene. Prevalence of infection by any given enteroparasite was 24.8%, but soil-transmitted helminths were only detected in 3.5% of the examined samples. Frequency of protozoan infections reached 90% and 97.8% in single and multiple infections, respectively. Blastocystis sp. (38.9%) was the most frequently species found in the surveyed schoolchildren population. A total of 41 Blastocystis-positive samples were unambiguously typed as ST1 (36.4%), ST2 (21.2%), ST3 (39.4%), and ST1 + ST3 mixed infection (3.0%). These results indicate that Blastocystis transmission is primarily anthroponotic in origin. This data highlights the importance of maintaining the anthelminthic control programs currently in place and of improving sanitary disposal of human excreta in poor-resource settings. Keywords: Schoolchildren, Soil-transmitted helminths, Blastocystis, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil

Dada la importancia de la lectura académica en la formación universitaria y que uno de los factores gravitantes en este tipo de tarea son los aspectos motivacionales, el presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo identificar los elementos, que según los propios protagonistas explicarían el incremento de su motivación por la lectura de textos académicos. El estudio de carácter mixto se realizó en dos fases. En una primera fase fueron identificados a partir de una muestra amplia (n=1205) estudiantes con alta motivación por la lectura académica y que hubiesen experimentado un cambio motivacional positivo (n=10). En una segunda fase, estos casos fueron sujetos de entrevistas en profundidad y el análisis de estas entrevistas se recogen en este artículo. Los resultados muestran como causas de la mejora de la motivación por la lectura académica, dinámicas vinculadas con el desafío, el ingreso a la lógica universitaria (desescolarización) y las proyecciones académico/profesionales de estos estudiantes; procesos que se encuentran vinculados a los primeros años de formación, favorecidos por docentes que promueven una dinámica académica en la formación. Se discuten finalmente las implicaciones de estas dinámicas para la formación universitaria.

Resumen Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación realizada en Chile, cuyo objetivo fue, en primer lugar, testear la hipótesis de que profesores en formación de último año tienden, mayoritariamente, a concebir las estrategias motivacionales efectivas desde una lógica de entretención, por sobre otras vinculadas más directamente con la realización de la tarea o la motivación por aprendizaje; y en segundo lugar, caracterizar las estrategias motivacionales percibidas como posibles y efectivas, agrupándolas según su foco en estrategias orientadas al aprendizaje, realización de la tarea y a la entretención. En el estudio participaron 306 estudiantes de pedagogía chilenos, de ambos sexos, de distintas universidades de la Región de la Araucanía que cursan su último año de carrera. Los resultados muestran la confirmación de la hipótesis, evidenciando una preeminencia de una concepción de la motivación escolar que se organiza en torno a la idea de entretención. Más aún, se evidencia que esta lógica de la entretención invisibiliza, en muchos casos, una concepción de la motivación escolar centrada en favorecer el deseo de aprender. Finalmente, se discuten las implicancias de estos hallazgos para una mejor formación docente y para un ejercicio efectivo de la motivación en el aula, en donde se tomen en consideración los aspectos relacionados con la entretención y la realización de la tarea, pero donde prevalezca la motivación orientada a suscitar el deseo de aprender.

ABSTRACT The symptomatology of Blastocystis cannot be attributed to any particular subtype, although can be related to a high Blastocystis infection load. One stool sample from each of 217 schoolchildren of Vale de Sol Paranaguá Bay (Paraná, Brazil) was collected. Three milliliters of each fixed stool sample were processed applying the formalin-ether concentration technique. After obtaining the overall prevalence of intestinal parasites, quantification was carried out in Blastocystis positive samples. A total of 75/217 (34.6%) children suffered from intestinal symptoms (abdominal pain and/or persistent diarrhea), of whom 41.3% (31/75) presented moderate/heavy Blastocystis load with a statistically significant risk to present intestinal symptoms (OR 0.039 [0.006-0.15]; p

Abstract Background The intestinal epithelium plays a multifactorial role in mucosal defense. In this sense, augmented epithelial cell turnover appears as a potential effector mechanism for the rejection of intestinal-dwelling helminths. Methods A BrdU pulse-chase experiment was conducted to investigate the infection-induced alterations on epithelial cell kinetics in hosts of high (mouse) and low (rat) compatibility with the intestinal trematode Echinostoma caproni. Results High levels of crypt-cell proliferation and tissue hyperplasia were observed in the ileum of infected mice, coinciding with the establishment of chronic infections. In contrast, the cell migration rate was about two times higher in the ileum of infected rats compared with controls, with no changes in tissue structure, indicating that an accelerated cell turnover is associated with worm expulsion. Conclusion Our results indicate that E. caproni infection induces a rapid renewal of the intestinal epithelium in the low compatible host that may impair the establishment of proper, stable host-parasite interactions, facilitating worm clearance.

Helminth infections are among the most prevalent neglected tropical diseases, causing an enormous impact in global health and the socioeconomic growth of developing countries. In this context, the study of helminth biology, with emphasis on host-parasite interactions, appears as a promising approach for developing new tools to prevent and control these infections.The role that antibody responses have on helminth infections is still not well understood. To go in depth into this issue, work on the intestinal helminth Echinostoma caproni (Trematoda: Echinostomatidae) has been undertaken. Adult parasites were recovered from infected mice and cultured in vitro. Double indirect immunofluorescence at increasing culture times was done to show that in vivo-bound surface antibodies become trapped within a layer of excretory/secretory products that covers the parasite. Entrapped antibodies are then degraded by parasite-derived proteases, since protease inhibitors prevent for antibody loss in culture. Electron microscopy and immunogold-labelling of secreted proteins provide evidence that this mechanism is consistent with tegument dynamics and ultrastructure, hence it is feasible to occur in vivo. Secretory vesicles discharge their content to the outside and released products are deposited over the parasite surface enabling antibody trapping.At the site of infection, both parasite secretion and antibody binding occur simultaneously and constantly. The continuous entrapment of bound antibodies with newly secreted products may serve to minimize the deleterious effects of the antibody-mediated attack. This mechanism of immune evasion may aid to understand the limited effect that antibody responses have in helminth infections, and may contribute to the basis for vaccine development against these highly prevalent diseases.

Objetivo: analizar la relación entre vulnerabilidad social y conductas sexuales de riesgo en un grupo de adolescentes chilenos. Materiales y métodos: estudio transversal en adolescentes de la comuna Chiguayante, región del Bío-Bío, Chile, año 2009. La muestra fue de 297 adolescentes, 154 mujeres y 143 varones. Se utilizó la ficha CLAP OPS/OMS y un instrumento de vulnerabilidad social y conducta sexual. Se aplicó t-Student y Ji 2 (p < 0,05). Resultados: la edad promedio fue 16,5 ± 1,5 años en varones y 16,4 ± 1,5 mujeres. El 63% vive con ambos padres. El 74% describe sus relaciones familiares como buenas y excelentes. El 44% de los adolescentes que han iniciado actividad sexual definen sus relaciones familiares como regulares, malas o sin relación frente al 20% que no ha iniciado actividad sexual (p = 0,033); el 62% de los adolescentes que han iniciado actividad sexual percibe escaso o nulo apoyo familiar frente al 42% de los adolescentes que no han iniciado actividad sexual (p = 0,0031). El 51% señala que hay delincuencia en su entorno social próximo. No hubo diferencias significativas al asociar variables de vulnerabilidad social con uso de métodos anticonceptivos y el número de parejas sexuales. Las relaciones sexuales asociadas al consumo de alcohol y drogas fueron superiores en varones (21%) que en mujeres (10%) (p = 0,019); las relaciones sexuales sin protección fueron superiores en mujeres (35%) que en varones (20%) (p = 0,05). Conclusión: se reconoce la importancia de la familia en el proceso de formación de la conducta sexual de las y los adolescentes.

Basado en los registros de la literatura y datos obtenidos de nuestras colectas, discutimos la distribución actual de Liolaemus pictus. La comparación de los resultados indica que esta especie no ha sido detectada en la depresión intermedia de Chile desde 1934. Lo anterior implica que dichas poblaciones se han extinguido, seguramente como consecuencia de la deforestación. Al mismo tiempo, extendemos el límite sur de la distribución conocida de L. pictus hasta los 44 °S en la Región de Aysen.Based on literature records and data gathered during our fieldwork, we discuss the current distribution oí Liolaemus pictus. The comparison of results shows that this species has not been detected since 1934 in the southern Chilean intermedíate depression, implying populations' extinction associated to deforestation. In addition, we found individuáis of L. pictus in Aysén Región, extending its southern distribution up 44°S.

Leer es comprender, pero toda lectura comienza con la decodificación de los símbolos impresos. Gracias al descubrimiento del principio alfabético el lector se abre paso en el mundo: Aprendiendo a leer, aumenta su conocimiento del mundo y potencia sus habilidades verbales. Estas, a su vez, se ven reforzadas por la ejercitación de la lectura. La investigación, en los últimos 20 años, se ha centrado en dilucidar la relación entre comprensión de lectura y decodificación en la edad infantil, sin embargo los esfuerzos por extender esta línea hacia la edad adulta son recientes y aún contradictorios. El propósito de este artículo es revisar el concepto de decodificación y presentar evidencia empírica que nos permita elucidar los lazos que estas dos variables establecen tanto en la edad infantil como en la adultez. Se discuten asimismo las consecuencias de estos hallazgos para la práctica pedagógica y logopédica.

Antecedentes: En Chile aproximadamente 475.297 mujeres se encuentran expuestas al riesgo de embarazos no deseados y abortos provocados, ya sea porque usan anticonceptivos de baja eficacia o no los usan. Objetivos: Conocer el perfil biosocial de las usuarias que demandan la pildora de anticoncepción de emergencia, una vez que ésta estuvo disponible para las beneficiarías de los Consultorios de Atención Primaria del Servicio de Salud. Métodos: Se analizó las características sociodemográficas y antecedentes gineco-obstétricos de la totalidad de las 93 fichas de las mujeres que solicitaron anticoncepción de emergencia entre el segundo semestre de 2006 y el primer semestre de 2007, en un Consultorio de Atención Primaria de Salud del Servicio de Salud Metropolitano de Santiago. Resultados: El perfil obtenido es de una mujer joven de promedio de 23,6 años, soltera, estudiante, beneficiaría exenta de pago del sistema de salud público, con edad promedio de inicio de relaciones sexuales de 16,2 años, que ha tenido entre una y dos parejas sexuales, sin hijos, que no utiliza un método anticonceptivo habitual, que consulta por haber tenido una relación sexual no protegida en las últimas 24 horas. Conclusiones: El perfil identificado corresponde a una población de conducta sexual desprotegida, de alto riesgo de embarazo no deseado y de aborto inseguro, que deben ser incorporadas a los programas regulares de control de la fecundidad.Background: In Chile approximately 475,297 women are in risk of unwanted pregnancies and induced abor-tions, either because of low effectiveness contraceptive use or not use at all. Objective: To determine the biosocial profile of users who demand the pill of emergency contraception once they were available to the beneficiaries of a primary care health service. Method: This investigation analyzed sociodemographic cha-racteristics and background obstetric-gynecological of 93 medical files of women who requested emergency contraception in a Primary Care Health of the Central Región Metropolitan Santiago, between the second semester of 2006 at first semester of 2007. Results: The profile obtained was a young woman of 23.6 years, single, student, benefician/ exempt of paying in the public health system, with an age of onset sexual in-tercourse of 16.2 years, who has had between one and two sexual partners, without children, who are not using a regular contraceptive method, and who consults mainly by having unprotected sexual intercourse in the last 24 hours. Conclusions: The profile identified corresponds to a population of unprotected sexual conduct, with a high risk of unwanted pregnancy and unsafe abortion, which should be incorporated into regular programmes of fertility control.

BACKGROUND:Echinostoma caproni (Trematoda: Echinostomatidae) is an intestinal trematode that has been extensively used as experimental model to investigate the factors determining the expulsion of intestinal helminths or, in contrast, the development of chronic infections. Herein, we analyze the changes in protein expression induced by E. caproni infection in ICR mice, a host of high compatibility in which the parasites develop chronic infections. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS:To determine the changes in protein expression, a two-dimensional DIGE approach using protein extracts from the intestine of naïve and infected mice was employed; and spots showing significant differential expression were analyzed by mass spectrometry. A total of 37 spots were identified differentially expressed in infected mice (10 were found to be over-expressed and 27 down-regulated). These proteins were related to the restoration of the intestinal epithelium and the control of homeostatic dysregulation, concomitantly with mitochondrial and cytoskeletal proteins among others. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE:Our results suggests that changes in these processes in the ileal epithelium of ICR mice may facilitate the establishment of the parasite and the development of chronic infections. These results may serve to explain the factors determining the development of chronicity in intestinal helminth infection.

Critical thinking depends on the mastery degrees of some skills and on the will to activate them when reasoning. Traditionally, this second aspect has been focused from a disposition approach (Facione, 1990). However, this perspective demonstrates problems in theoretical as in practical level to explain and to develop critical thinking. For this, it is proposed to approach the problem from the Motivation perspective (Eccles and Wigfield, 2002). In this context, our research deals with the evaluation of the convenience to choose one perspective or another to explain the performance of critical thinking, both theoretically and in its predictive capacity. Thus, along with theoretically analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both approaches and it was compared measures of dispositions (CCTDI), motivation (EMPC) and critical thinking (CCTST) in a sample of Spanish university students. The results show that the variability in critical thinking performance is better explained by the motivation than by dispositional approach. Finally, the theoretical and practical convenience of motivational approach in this matter is discussed.

The competencies associated with academic reading, especially the motivational aspects, are essential to undergraduate students’ academic success. Motivation is an emerging issue that has given rise to many studies, yet motivation for academic reading remains a subject rarely addressed or studied. To effectively support the learning process, a diagnostic that is capable of providing precise, valid and reliable information on the motivational aspects of reading in an academic context is necessary. This article presents the results of the process of construction and validation of the Motivation Scale for Academic Reading (EMLA-acronym in Spanish), which was based on the Expectancy & Value model of Jacqueline Eccles and Allan Wigfield (2002), hereinafter EyV. This instrument provides clues for motivational intervention to incentivize reading in an academic context. Likewise, we also report on the structure of the instrument, its theoretical foundations, its factor structure and reliability—psychometric characteristics that make EMLA a solid, valid and reliable instrument.

The study of host-parasite interactions has increased considerably in the last decades, with many studies focusing on the identification of parasite molecules (i.e. surface or excretory/secretory proteins (ESP)) as potential targets for new specific treatments and/or diagnostic tools. In parallel, in the last few years there have been significant advances in the field of extracellular vesicles research. Among these vesicles, exosomes of endocytic origin, with a characteristic size ranging from 30-100 nm, carry several atypical secreted proteins in different organisms, including parasitic protozoa. Here, we present experimental evidence for the existence of exosome-like vesicles in parasitic helminths, specifically the trematodes Echinostoma caproni and Fasciola hepatica. These microvesicles are actively released by the parasites and are taken up by host cells. Trematode extracellular vesicles contain most of the proteins previously identified as components of ESP, as confirmed by proteomic, immunogold labeling and electron microscopy studies. In addition to parasitic proteins, we also identify host proteins in these structures. The existence of extracellular vesicles explains the secretion of atypical proteins in trematodes, and the demonstration of their uptake by host cells suggests an important role for these structures in host-parasite communication, as described for other infectious agents.

BACKGROUND: Strongyloidiasis is one of the most neglected diseases distributed worldwide with endemic areas in developed countries, where chronic infections are life threatening. Despite its impact, very little is known about the molecular biology of the parasite involved and its interplay with its hosts. Next generation sequencing technologies now provide unique opportunities to rapidly address these questions. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Here we present the first transcriptome of the third larval stage of S. stercoralis using 454 sequencing coupled with semi-automated bioinformatic analyses. 253,266 raw sequence reads were assembled into 11,250 contiguous sequences, most of which were novel. 8037 putative proteins were characterized based on homology, gene ontology and/or biochemical pathways. Comparison of the transcriptome of S. strongyloides with those of other nematodes, including S. ratti, revealed similarities in transcription of molecules inferred to have key roles in parasite-host interactions. Enzymatic proteins, like kinases and proteases, were abundant. 1213 putative excretory/secretory proteins were compiled using a new pipeline which included non-classical secretory proteins. Potential drug targets were also identified. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the present dataset should provide a solid foundation for future fundamental genomic, proteomic and metabolomic explorations of S. stercoralis, as well as a basis for applied outcomes, such as the development of novel methods of intervention against this neglected parasite.

Historical climate changes and orogenesis are two important factors that have shaped intraspecific biodiversity patterns worldwide. Although southern South America has experienced such complex events, there is a paucity of studies examining the effects on intraspecific diversification in this part of the world. Liolaemus pictus is the southernmost distributed lizard in the Chilean temperate forest, whose genetic structure has likely been influenced by Pleistocene glaciations. We conducted a phylogeographic study of L. pictus in Chile and Argentina based on one mitochondrial and two nuclear genes recovering two strongly divergent groups, Northern and Southern clades. The first group is distributed from the northernmost limit of the species to the Araucanía region while the second group is distributed throughout the Andes and the Chiloé archipelago in Southern Chile. Our results suggest that L. pictus originated 751 Kya, with divergence between the two clades occurring in the late Pleistocene. Demographic reconstructions for the Northern and Southern clades indicate a decrease in effective population sizes likely associated with Pleistocene glaciations. Surprisingly, patterns of genetic variation, clades age and historical gene flow in populations distributed within the limits of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) are not explained by recent colonization. We propose an "intra-Andean multiple refuge" hypothesis, along with the classical refuge hypothesis previously proposed for the biota of the Chilean Coastal range and Eastern Andean Cordillera. Our hypothesis is supported by niche modelling analysis suggesting the persistence of fragments of suitable habitat for the species within the limits of the LGM ice shield. This type of refuge hypothesis is proposed for the first time for an ectothermic species.

Two pillars of the curricula for primary education and early childhood education in Chile are, respectively, the formal teaching of reading and the promotion of the pleasure of reading. These two objectives depend, in part, on the relationship that teachers themselves establish with reading. Previous studies have been critical, suggesting that teachers seem to act as "false readers," endangering the formation of new readers. Under this premise, this research investigated the reading life of future teachers who are trained, among other things, to mediate subsequent learning, as well as the acquisition and development of committed readers. The study focused on the importance of reading, preservice teachers' motivation to read different types of texts, reading habits, and actual reading done during 1 year. The research participants were 365 prospective Chilean early childhood (n = 164) and primary education (n = 201) teachers, who responded to Likert-type and open-ended questions. In line with previous studies, we observed teachers' high reading valuation but low effective reading praxis. Regarding the importance of reading, we observe reading utility as a first dimension while "enjoyment" or "connecting with my history" are the least valuable dimensions. The implications of these findings for initial teacher training--and especially the role of children's literature in this framework--are discussed.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Determinar el nivel de negatividad de los estereotipos de la vejez en estudiantes de establecimientos rurales, Región de Ñuble, Chile. Metodología: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal sobre una muestra de 114 estudiantes de 5.º a 8.º básico de dos establecimientos rurales en Chile. La información fue recolectada mediante la aplicación del cuestionario de estereotipos negativos de la vejez (CENVE). Resultados: El 53,5% (n = 61) de los estudiantes obtuvo un alto nivel de estereotipo negativo, donde la dimensión más negativa fue salud en todas las variables estudiadas. Conclusión: Los estudiantes percibieron un alto nivel de estereotipo negativo hacia la vejez, por lo que resulta necesario realizar intervenciones que se enfoquen en cambiar la visión negativa que poseen respecto a este grupo etario y, de esta manera, lograr que los ancianos se sientan integrados y valorados en la sociedad actual.

RESUMEN: En este artículo se discute el concepto de “alfabetización micropolítica” (Micropolitical Literacy), el cual surge como una metáfora del proceso de inserción de docentes principiantes en la organización escolar, entendiendo este proceso como “aprender a leer y escribir en la micropolítica de la escuela”. Este concepto está focalizado desde la comprensión de la organización como relaciones de poder a través de diversos intereses que poseen quienes conforman dicha organización. Estas relaciones pueden ser vistas como antagonistas o también de colaboración. En el artículo se revisa la investigación realizada desde esta perspectiva y la necesidad de discutirla en el contexto de la formación inicial docente como un modo de mejorar la inserción del profesorado.