Search

This study compares the Melbourne Decision-Making Questionnaire (MDMQ) and the General Decision-Making Style questionnaire (GDMS), two of the most widely used decision-making questionnaires in the literature, in a large age- and sex-weighted general population sample of 714 men (45.7%) and 848 women (54.3%) between 18 and 90 years old. The objective was to evaluate the convergent and construct validity between several aspects of these decision-making style questionnaires. The results indicate that the two questionnaires replicate the factorial structure of four and five factors reported in the original studies, respectively, through exploratory and confirmatory procedures in our cross-cultural context. The domains of both questionnaires that represent a strong or large correlation are Vigilance with Rational (0.50), and Hypervigilance, Buck-passing, and Procrastination with Avoidant (0.45, 0.52, and 0.60). A Structural Equations Model (SEM) between both questionnaires indicates that both latent factors formed by the domains of the MDMQ and the GDMS obtain a correlation of 0.96. It is concluded that the two questionnaires measure similar aspects of the decision-making construct.

Background This study aimed to determine the optimal time point, either 30 or 60 minutes, at which muscle reactivity to caffeine administration is highest. Unlike previous studies that focused on the nervous system response, we employed tensiomyography (TMG) to directly assess the effects of caffeine on muscle fibers.Methods TMG measurements were performed on the gastrocnemius medialis muscle of 42 male athletes who regularly consumed caffeine. Participants received a dose of 6 mg/kg body weight and TMG measurements were taken prior to caffeine intake, as well as 30 and 60 minutes afterward.Results Analysis of TMG parameters including time to contraction (Tc), time delay (Td), and maximal displacement (Dm) revealed that muscles exhibited faster contractions and greater stiffness at the 30-minute mark compared to both pre-caffeine intake and the 60-minute time point. Time exerted a significant main effect on Tc (F(2, 246) = 12.09, p

Background This study was designed to examine the prevalence and relationships between the Internet gaming disorder (IGD) behaviors, suggested by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), and personality traits. Participants and procedure A sample community of 1,548 subjects, 707 men and 841 women, with a mean age of 40.90 and 38.89 years, respectively, was evaluated. Results The results showed that only 7 subjects (0.5%) exceeded the cut-off point of 75 points to be classed as “disordered gamers” proposed by Fuster et al. (2016) in Spain. This study demonstrates the unidimensionality of the IGD-20, so it can be used as an ordinal dimensional measure to study the relationship between IGD symptoms and other related variables such as per-sonality in community samples. A multiple linear regression analysis revealed that up to 8% of the variance of the Internet Gaming Disorder-20 scale (IGD-20), as a dimensional scale, can be explained by low activity, high aggressiveness, introver-sion, non-planning impulsivity, sensation seeking, neuroticism and impulsiveness (attention impulsivity) using the Alterna-tive Five Factor Model (AFFM) of personality and the Barratt Impulsivity Scale (BIS-11). Conclusions This study shows that the prevalence of IGD in the Spanish population is similar to that of other Western countries. The unidimensionality of the IGD-20 allows its use in correlational studies to examine the relationship between Internet gam-bling behaviors and personality variables. The implications of these personality profiles are discussed in relation to the psy-chological and clinical mechanisms involved in Internet gaming disorder.

Background: MECP2 duplication syndrome (MDS) (MIM#300260) is a rare X-linked neurodevelopmental disorder. This study aims to (1) develop a specific clinical severity scale, (2) explore its correlation with clinical and molecular variables, and (3) automate diagnosis using the Face2gene platform. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on genetically confirmed MDS patients who were evaluated at a pediatric hospital between 2012 and 2024. Epidemiological, clinical, and molecular data were collected. A standardized clinical questionnaire was collaboratively developed with input from physicians and parents. Patient photographs were used to train Face2Gene. Results: Thirty-five patients (0–24 years, 30 males) were included. Key features in males comprised intellectual disability (100%), hypotonia (93%), autism spectrum disorder (77%) and developmental regression (52%). Recurrent respiratory infections (79%), dysphagia (73%), constipation (73%) and gastroesophageal reflux (57%) were common. Seizures occurred in 53%, with 33% being treatment-refractory. The Face2Gene algorithm was successfully trained to identify MDS. A specific clinical severity scale (MECPDup) was developed and validated, correlating with the MBA (a scale developed for Rett syndrome). The MECPDup score was significantly higher in males (p < 0.001) and those with early death (p = 0.003). It showed significant positive correlations with age (p < 0.001) and duplication size (p = 0.044). Conclusions: This study expands the understanding of MDS through comprehensive clinical and molecular insights. The integration of AI-based facial recognition technology and the development of the MECPDup severity scale hold promise for enhancing diagnostic accuracy, monitoring disease progression, and evaluating treatment responses in individuals affected by MDS.

La implementación y generalización de la modalidad de Educación a Distancia durante el período de la pandemia Covid 19, demostró su incuestionable importancia en todos los niveles educativos, con énfasis en la Educación Superior, tanto en la formación de pregrado como de posgrado. En cambio, una de las problemáticas que se revela, entre los docentes al emplear esta modalidad, se relaciona con la diversidad de criterios en cómo evaluar el diseño y la calidad de los cursos a distancia. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo, fundamentar un modelo de diseño y evaluación de la calidad de la educación a distancia para contribuir a perfeccionar la calidad del proceso formativo en la Universidad de Oriente. Este modelo contiene los indicadores para evaluar la calidad de los cursos en línea y las aulas virtuales soportados en la plataforma Moodle, cuya pertinencia fue constatada mediante la inducción-deducción, la observación, el análisis estadístico presentado en una escala valorativa, talleres de reflexión metodológica y técnicas de la estadística descriptiva. Se propone un modelo que constituye una herramienta metodológica para la autoevaluación y evaluación del proceso de montaje de los cursos y de su gestión pedagógica en la plataforma Moodle. Su implementación da cuenta de la efectividad de sus resultados, evidentes en la superioridad de los niveles del contenido alcanzados por los estudiantes en las diferentes disciplinas y el desarrollo de habilidades por los docentes en el empleo de la metodología y recursos tecnológicos que impone esta modalidad con el uso de las aulas virtuales.

Abstract Probiotics have shown a benefit in reducing necrotising enterocolitis in the premature infant, however the study of their effect on premature neonates’ neurodevelopment is limited. The aim of our study was to elucidate whether the effect of Bifidobacterium bifidum NCDO 2203 combined with Lactobacillus acidophilus NCDO 1748 could positively impact the neurodevelopment of the preterm neonates. Quasi-experimental comparative study with a combined treatment of probiotics in premature infants

Glioblastoma is a highly malignant brain tumor with a life expectancy of only 3–6 months without treatment. Detecting and predicting its survival and grade accurately are crucial. This study introduces a novel approach using transfer learning techniques. Various pre-trained networks, including EfficientNet, ResNet, VGG16, and Inception, were tested through exhaustive optimization to identify the most suitable architecture. Transfer learning was applied to fine-tune these models on a glioblastoma image dataset, aiming to achieve two objectives: survival and tumor grade prediction.The experimental results show 65% accuracy in survival prediction, classifying patients into short, medium, or long survival categories. Additionally, the prediction of tumor grade achieved an accuracy of 97%, accurately differentiating low-grade gliomas (LGG) and high-grade gliomas (HGG). The success of the approach is attributed to the effectiveness of transfer learning, surpassing the current state-of-the-art methods. In conclusion, this study presents a promising method for predicting the survival and grade of glioblastoma. Transfer learning demonstrates its potential in enhancing prediction models, particularly in scenarios with limited large datasets. These findings hold promise for improving diagnostic and treatment approaches for glioblastoma patients.

El modelo de liderazgo total y el uso del instrumento MLQ constituyen una de las formas más usadas estudiar el liderazgo a nivel mundial. Sin embargo, modelos como el de Jensen et al (2019) han criticado la forma en que se conceptualiza y se mide el liderazgo bajo esta postura. El objetivo de este estudio fue comprobar cuatro predicciones derivadas del modelo de Jensen et al (2019) en una muestra de líderes mexicanos (n = 100) con personal a cargo y con un año como mínimo en su puesto. Se aplicó el instrumento propuesto por Jensen et al (2019) (MMLTT) en conjunto con el MLQ-6s, en su versión validada al español. Los resultados indicaron que la dimensión de liderazgo transformacional, medida con el MMLTT, se correlacionó con todas las dimensiones de liderazgo transformacional medidas con el MLQ-6s. Finalmente, las dimensiones de liderazgo transaccional, medidas con el MMLTT, se correlacionaron con la dimensión de liderazgo transaccional medida con el MLQ-6s. Un algoritmo de aprendizaje no supervisado permitió agrupar a la muestra en tres grupos con estilos de liderazgo diferentes. Los resultados son discutidos en relación con su consistencia teórica con la propuesta de Jensen et al (2019) y con hallazgos previos en la literatura.

Background: The CAPE Vulnerability Index serves as a worldwide foreign policy indicator that implies which countries should get assistance first. It provides an evidence-based, well-structured, and well-reasoned strategy for employing aid in bilateral arrangements with mental health as a basis. Objective: The second edition of the CAPE VI has been developed to identify which nations should get priority foreign aid. Materials and Methods: We considered various indices or measures at the country level reflecting the average national health status or factors influencing public health. To make our choice, we used 26 internationally accessible and verified indicators. For the study, we have scored the countries according to these indices and prioritized those with the worst scores. Results: The CAPE Vulnerability Index is based on the number of times a country is ranked among the low-scoring nations. It is based on nine parameters and is an independent measure even though there may be a correlation with similar indices such as life expectancy, disability-adjusted life years(DALYs), physician numbers, and gross domestic product(GDP). Conclusion: We concluded that low-scoring countries were fragile or failed states, such as nations where governments lack complete oversight or power, are often oppressive and corrupt, have allegations of violations of human rights, or are marked by political turmoil in different forms, drawbacks from severe environmental damage, severe impoverishment, inequalities, cultural and racial divisions, cannot supply fundamental amenities, are victims of terrorism, and so on. To address these essential problems impacting fragile nations, administrations, aid donors, local organizations, mental health specialists, and associations should collaborate.

Drilling predation plays an important role in the evolution and diversification of organisms, and is one of the most studied biotic interactions in fossil and modern records. Marks of drilling predation on mollusc shells are proof of food activity and the selective pressure of one taxon on another. In this study, we explore drilling predation on preserved bivalve death assemblages (thanatocoenosis) at Playa Guardalavaca, Cuba. We characterize the taxonomic composition, relative abundance and incidence of drilling. Furthermore, geometric morphometric tools were used to test whether there was a preference for any particular form of shell. Forty-eight species were identified, and a little less than half (21) showed drilling predation marks. The families with the highest species richness were Lucinidae and Tellinidae, with 11 species each. A total of 1,726 valves were quantified, estimating an abundance of 863 specimens. 190 valves showed drilling marks (22% of the abundance). The most abundant species were Lucina sp. (464 shells), Divalinga quadrisulcata (328), Americardia media (242), Ctena imbricatula (156), and Chione spp. (117). However, the most predated species were Epicodakia sp. (100%), Acorylus gouldii (56%), and Eurytellina sp. (44%). The highest predation rate occurs on small and medium-sized valves (≤ 7 mm); however, according to the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, this result is only statistically significative in Lucina sp. (p < 0.001). The morphometric analysis showed predation preferences for species with semi-circular rather than elliptical shells. These results elucidate that drilling predation on bivalves is not only determined by the abundance of prey, but also by their external morphology and size, suggesting highly specialised feeding behaviour by predators. Received: 23.06.2022 Accepted: 17.01.2023 Editor: Carlos Rosas

The inclusion of women canoe in the Olympic Games reflects the growth and development that women have ahead of them in this modality. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore sex and performance level differences in muscle contractile properties through Tensiomyography (TMG), range of motion (ROM), strength, and canoe-specific functional electromechanical dynamometry (FEMD) performance and establish performance differences between international medalists and non-medalists. Twelve male and nine female canoeists from the Spanish and Portuguese national canoe teams were assessed through TMG, ROM, strength, and canoe-specific isometric and incremental FEMD tests. Few sex and performance level differences were found in TMG and ROM; however, significant sex differences were found in the strength and FEMD tests. Male canoeists had a greater Fmax in Leg Press, Pm and Pmax in canoe position cable row, 1RM bench press and bench pull, Fm and Fpeak canoe-specific isometric FEMD test and number of strokes, and Fpeak and Pmax on the incremental FEMD test than females. International medalists showed a lower time until reaching Vmax and Pmax in Leg Press on both sides and a greater number of strokes and Fpeak in the maximal incremental FEMD test than non-medalists. This study reinforces the utility of the use of TMG and FEMD for assessing and monitoring world-class athletes.

The electric vehicle deployment, due to the plans defined according to the energy transition objectives, produces new challenges for the electrical system. These challenges are associated with the charging infrastructure of these vehicles since they require a high current during specific periods, which can increase losses in the network, overload the lines, or cause voltage drops that affect the system’s stability. To solve these challenges, one of the possible solutions is the investment in new network infrastructure to face the increase in demand, such as the construction of new transformation centers or new medium and low-voltage lines. However, in the case of rural networks with a small number of users, these investments may not be viable. This article analyzes the possible impacts of connecting electric vehicles in a rural low-voltage network located in a Spanish municipality, as well as possible implementable solutions that do not require investment in new infrastructure. The number of connected vehicles has been calculated based on the national plan for 2030, and the network model used is based on actual data provided by the distribution company that operates in the area.

Abstract The Continuous bright light conditions to which premature infants are subjected while hospitalized in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) can have deleterious effects in terms of growth and development. This study evaluates the benefits of a light/darkness cycle (LDC) in weight and early hospital discharge from the NICU. Subjects were recruited from three participating institutions in Mexico. Eligible patients (n = 294) were premature infants who were hospitalized in the low-risk and high-risk neonatal units classified as stable. The subjects randomized to the experimental group (n = 150) were allocated to LDC conditions are as follows: light from 07:00 to 19:00 and darkness (25 lx) from 19:00 to 07:00. The control group (n = 144) was kept under normal room light conditions (CBL) 24 h a day. Main outcome was weight gain and the effect of reducing the intensity of nocturnal light in development of premature infants. Infants to the LDC gained weight earlier, compared with those randomized to CBL, and had a significant reduction in length of hospital stay. These results highlight those premature infants subjected to a LDC exhibit improvements in physiological development, favoring earlier weight gain and consequently a decrease in hospital stays. ClinicalTrials.gov; 02/09/2020 ID: NCT05230706.

Una de las características más importantes del directivo es proporcionar retroalimentación y dar indicaciones a sus subordinados; sin embargo, muchos de los directivos no cuentan con el nivel requerido de estas habilidades. El objetivo de este estudio fue desarrollar un programa de capacitación basado en evidencias para el entrenamiento de habilidades de dirección de personal. Se utilizó como variable dependiente un índice de efectividad que medía el grado de entrega de reportes antes de la hora límite. El diseño utilizado fue una línea base múltiple con 5 sujetos. La intervención consistió en un paquete de tratamiento (control instruccional, lotería y retroalimentación). El tratamiento fue aplicado por el jefe directo de los subordinados, previamente entrenado. Los resultados indicaron un aumento en el índice de efectividad, respecto de la línea base pasando de un de un 31 % a un 77% en la fase de tratamiento. Se registró un tamaño del efecto grande en dos sujetos con una d de Cohen de 1.13 y 1.11. Los datos obtenidos muestran que las técnicas conductuales entrenadas tienen un efecto consistente en los indicadores de desempeño de los subordinados. Se recomienda la replicación de la intervención en otros contextos organizacionales.

Prenatal exposure to alcohol can cause Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) after birth, encompassing a spectrum of physical, cognitive, and behavioral abnormalities. FASD represents a severe non-genetic disability avoidable through alcohol abstinence during pregnancy and when planning it. Clinical severity depends on alcohol impact, symptomatology, and resulting disabilities. FASD is a permanent disability with no recognized specific medical care. Conversely, secondary FASD-related disabilities can be symptomatically treated. This integrative review aims to provide information about the novel pharmacological treatments of FASD-associated comorbidities by selecting the last ten years of studies carried out on animals and humans. PRISMA guidelines were followed to search human/animal model studies of pharmacological interventions on FASD comorbidities, using different databases (PubMed, Cochrane, etc.). From 1348 articles, 44 met the criteria after full-text analysis. Firstly, all the reported studies point out that early diagnosis and tailored interventions are the principal tools to reduce FASD-related secondary disabilities, due to the fact that there is currently no approved pharmacological treatment for the tissue damage which produces FASD. Despite limitations in study designs and small sample sizes, these review results highlight how the treatment strategies of children with FASD have changed. In the past, studies focused on treating symptoms, but in the last years, researchers have turned their attention to the prevention targeting central nervous system embryogenesis. Novel treatments like choline and natural antioxidants and nutritional supplements are the most investigated treatments in humans with promising results. More follow-up studies need to be performed, to confirm and generalize reported efficacy to a wide sample size.

The present study was planned to study the relationships between age, personality (according to Zuckerman’s and Gray’s psychobiological models) and decision-making styles in relation to risky driving behaviors. The participants were habitual drivers, 538 (54.3%) men and 453 (45.7%) women, with a mean age around 45 years and mainly of middle socioeconomic status. The results indicate that the youngest men and women reported more Lapses, Ordinary violations, and Aggressive violations than the oldest men and women. Women reported more Lapses (d = −0.40), and men more Ordinary (d = 0.33) and Aggressive violations (d = 0.28) when driving. Linear and non-linear analysis clearly support the role of both personality traits and decision-making styles in risky driving behaviors. Aggressiveness, Sensitivity to Reward, Sensation Seeking played the main role from personality traits, and Spontaneous and Rational decision-making style also accounted for some variance regarding risky driving behaviors. This pattern was broadly replicated in both genders. The discussion section analyses congruencies with previous literature and makes recommendations on the grounds of observed results.

Introduction Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) has revolutionized the surgical techniques for lower-third rectal cancer. The aim of the present study was to analyze the outcomes of quality indicators of TaTME for rectal cancer compared with laparoscopic TME (LaTME). Methods A cohort prospective study with 50 (14 female and 36 male) patients, with a mean age of 67 (range: 55.75 to 75.25) years, who underwent surgery for rectal cancer. In total, 20 patients underwent TaTME, and 30, LaTME. Every TaTME procedure was performed by experienced colorectal surgeons. The sample was divided into two groups (TaTME and LaTME), and the quality indicators of the surgery for rectal cancer were analyzed. Results There were no statistically significant differences regarding the patients and the main characteristics of the tumor (age, gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists [ASA] score, body mass index [BMI], tumoral stage, neoadjuvant therapy, and distance from the tumor to the external anal margin) between the two groups. The rates of: postoperative morbidity (TaTME: 35%; LaTME: 30%; p = 0.763); mortality (0%); anastomotic leak (TaTME: 10%; LaTME: 13%; p = 0.722); wound infection (TaTME: 0%; LaTME: 3.3%; p = 0.409); reoperation (TaTME: 5%; LaTME: 6.6%; p = 0.808); and readmission (TaTME: 5%; LaTME: 0%; p = 0.400), as well as the length of the hospital stay (TaTME: 13.5 days; LaTME: 11 days; p = 0.538), were similar in both groups. There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of positive circumferential resection margin (TaTME: 5%; LaTME: 3.3%; p = 0.989) and positive distal resection margin (TaTME: 0%; LaTME: 3.3%; p = 0.400), the completeness of the TME (TaTME: 100%; LaTME: 100%), and the number of lymph nodes harvested (TaTME: 15; LaTME: 15.5; p = 0.882) between two groups. Conclusion Transanal total mesorectal excision is a safe and feasible surgical procedure for middle/lower-third rectal cancer.

In propositional logic, it is stated that “for if A is predicated for every B, and B for every C, A must necessarily be predicated of every C”. Following a similar logical process, it can be said that If A > B and B > C, then A > C, this is called transitive inference (TI). Piaget developed a verbal task to evaluate TI in children. Subsequent studies adapted this task for animals using a conditioned discrimination between five-terms sequence of stimuli A + B-, B + C-, C + D-, and D + E-. If subjects prefer B over D during test, it is assumed that TI has occurred. In this experiment, we analyzed the effects of task complexity on TI by using a five-terms sequence of stimuli associated with probabilistic outcomes during training, in pigeons. Thus, both stimuli are reinforced in each pair but with different probability, 0.8 for + stimulus and 0.2 for the—stimulus. We found that performance during C + D- pair is impaired and preference in the test pair BD is affected. However, this impairment is dependent on individual differences in performance in C + D- pair. We compare our findings with previous research and conclude that Pavlovian mechanisms, as well as ordering of stimuli, can account for our findings.

Recently, several studies on Cuban marine molluscs have been developed. However, it is necessary to conduct studies on their distribution, particularly in the poorly studied eastern coasts. In the present work, we collected and identified marine molluscs from the northeastern coast of Cuba. A checklist with 88 species, which are new records to the area, is presented; 59 species are gastropods, 27 are bivalves and two are chitons. Conside- ring previous studies, 375 species have been recorded from this region. The localities with the higher number of recorded species are Playa Esmeralda - Playa Guardalavaca (232 species, 46 new records) and Bahía de Naranjo (107 species, 17 new records). Further stu- dies have to be conducted in other localities of the area, particularly in coral lagoons and bays, and focused on micromolluscs, sea slugs and families with a high number of local endemics (Columbellidae, Marginellidae, and Cystiscidae). Received: 16-12-2021 Accepted: 07-06-2022 Editor: José A. Pérez-García

Introduction The Covid-19 pandemic has had an important impact on colorectal cancer surgery, for hospital resources had to be redistributed in favour of Covid-19 patients. The aim of the present study is to analyze our results in colorectal oncologic surgery during the Covid-19 pandemic in patients with and without perioperative SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods In total, 32 patients (19 male and 13 female patients), with a mean age of 64 years (range: 57.2 to 69.5 years) with colorectal cancer underwent surgery under the recommendations of surgical societies included in a protocol. Data collection included clinical characteristics (gender, age, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, tumor location, preoperative staging, lymphopenia), data related to SARS-CoV-2 infection (postoperative symptoms, diagnostic tests), operative details (surgical procedure, approach, duration, stoma), pathological outcomes (tumor stage, number of lymph nodes harvested, distal and circumferential radial margins, quality of the total mesorectal excision), and surgical outcomes (morbidity, mortality, hospital stay, and the rates of reoperation and readmission). Results A total of 3 (9.4%) patients who underwent colorectal surgery during the Covid-19 pandemic were infected by SARS-CoV-2 in the postoperative period. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was associated with Covid-19 (6.2% versus 33.3%; p = 0.042), and surgical morbidity was higher among Covid-19 patients (100% versus 37.9%; p = 0.039). There were not significant differences between COVID-19 patients and non-COVID-19 patients in relation to the rest of the analyzed outcomes. Conclusion During the Covid-19 pandemic, colorectal cancer surgery should be performed according to the recommendations of surgical societies. However, Covid-19 patients could present a higher morbidity rate.

This article provides an extensive examination of the interconnectedness between energy and water in island regions, particularly those heavily reliant on tourism, as exemplified by the present case. This study explores the present state and trends of research in this field with the objective of attaining a sustainable system in future scenarios. Specifically, this analysis delves into the water–energy–CO2 nexus of the Colombian island of San Andrés. Currently, there is no energy generation from the water sector, with 76.18% of water consumption directed towards the cooling of thermal power plants and a mere 1.54% of the energy employed for water extraction, desalination, and purification. In 2019, the island’s total energy consumption reached 138 ktoe (kilotons of oil equivalent), and renewable energies have yet to contribute to the system. These findings emphasize the necessity for the island to implement measures that will bolster its sustainability, self-sufficiency, and resilience. This entails mitigating and managing the intensity of resource consumption, particularly in areas experiencing economic growth. According to the Sankey diagram obtained, some political implications and recommendations have been listed.

Breast cancer is a disease that affects women in different countries around the world. The real cause of breast cancer is particularly challenging to determine, and early detection of the disease is necessary for reducing the death rate, due to the high risks associated with breast cancer. Treatment in the early period can increase the life expectancy and quality of life for women. CAD (Computer Aided Diagnostic) systems can perform the diagnosis of the benign and malignant lesions of breast cancer using technologies and tools based on image processing, helping specialist doctors to obtain a more precise point of view with fewer processes when making their diagnosis by giving a second opinion. This study presents a novel CAD system for automated breast cancer diagnosis. The proposed method consists of different stages. In the preprocessing stage, an image is segmented, and a mask of a lesion is obtained; during the next stage, the extraction of the deep learning features is performed by a CNN—specifically, DenseNet 201. Additionally, handcrafted features (Histogram of Oriented Gradients (HOG)-based, ULBP-based, perimeter area, area, eccentricity, and circularity) are obtained from an image. The designed hybrid system uses CNN architecture for extracting deep learning features, along with traditional methods which perform several handcraft features, following the medical properties of the disease with the purpose of later fusion via proposed statistical criteria. During the fusion stage, where deep learning and handcrafted features are analyzed, the genetic algorithms as well as mutual information selection algorithm, followed by several classifiers (XGBoost, AdaBoost, Multilayer perceptron (MLP)) based on stochastic measures, are applied to choose the most sensible information group among the features. In the experimental validation of two modalities of the CAD design, which performed two types of medical studies—mammography (MG) and ultrasound (US)—the databases mini-DDSM (Digital Database for Screening Mammography) and BUSI (Breast Ultrasound Images Dataset) were used. Novel CAD systems were evaluated and compared with recent state-of-the-art systems, demonstrating better performance in commonly used criteria, obtaining ACC of 97.6%, PRE of 98%, Recall of 98%, F1-Score of 98%, and IBA of 95% for the abovementioned datasets.

Introduction: The Skin Picking Impact Scale (SPIS) is a self-report rating scale that assess the psychosocial impact of excoriation disorder. In this study the SPIS was translated into Spanish and its reliability was measured. Similarly, its short version (SPIS-S) has been translated and tested. Methodology: The recruitment has been performed through a survey launched on social media. All subjects were older than18 years and self-reported being diagnosed with an excoriation disorder. 281 individuals were rated for the validation analysis. SPIS has been translated into Spanish and validated through an. Exploratory and confirmatory factorial analysis. Participants have been also scored with the Skin Picking Scale-Revised (SPS-R). Results: On factor at the exploratory factorial analysis has a raw eigenvalue greater than 1, with 65.5% of total variance. The confirmatory analysis confirmed that the scale is one-dimensional. Cronbach’s alpha also confirmed a good internal consistency (?=0.934 for the SPIS and ?=0.882 for the SPIS-S). Scores between the two scales (SPIS and the SPS-R) have shown a good convergence (r=0.592, p

Actualmente existen alrededor de 537 millones de personas afectadas por diabetes mellitus en el mundo y se estima que para el 2030 serán 643 millones. El objetivo de esta investigación fue estimar el riesgo de desarrollar diabetes mellitus tipo 2 en los próximos 10 años, en pacientes de la consulta externa del Hospital Nacional de Jutiapa. Se estudiaron 341 pacientes, seleccionados en forma aleatoria simple, se aplicó el puntaje Findrisc. La edad mediana fue 38 (18-78) años; el 63.9% (218/341) mujeres; la mediana de peso 66 (40-115) Kg, índice de masa corporal (IMC) 27.19 (17.14 – 48.68) y de circunferencia abdominal 91 (67-125) cm. De acuerdo al Findrisc, 19.3% (IC 95% 15.5% - 23.8%) (66/341) tenía riesgo alto o muy alto de desarrollar diabetes. El 51.8% (113/218) de las mujeres presentó riesgo moderado a muy alto, en tanto el 80.6% (99/123) de los varones tenía entre bajo y ligeramente elevado (p < .001). El 68.8% (156/227) de los menores de 45 años presentaron riesgo bajo o ligeramente elevado, mientras que el 63.8% (37/58) de los comprendidos entre los 45 a 54 años presentaba riesgo moderado a muy alto (p < .001). En conclusión, existe incremento del riesgo de desarrollar prediabetes y diabetes en los próximos 10 años en la población estudiada y el riesgo más alto es para mujeres y personas mayores de 45 años, por lo que es necesario establecer estrategias necesarias de prevención para reducir dicho riesgo.

Introducción: el cine puede ser una herramienta útil para la educación médica. En la Psiquiatría, específicamente, el cine permite explorar las representaciones de diferentes trastornos mentales, cómo es vivir con una enfermedad mental, el estigma, la ética médica, la relación psiquiatra/paciente, entre otros. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la presencia de algún tipo de psicopatología en películas producidas en Paraguay, con el fin de que las mismas puedan ser utilizadas como herramientas didácticas en la enseñanza de la Psicopatología. Metodología: el diseño de esta investigación fue de tipo cualitativo exploratorio. Se seleccionaron, por conveniencia, 10 películas paraguayas, producidas entre los años 2010 y 2019. Las películas se eligieron tomando en cuenta su disponibilidad de visualización en las plataformas Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO GO, Apple TV+, YouTube, y en formato DVD. Resultados: se analizaron en busca de Psicopatología las siguientes películas Universo Servilleta (2010), Cuchillo de Palo (2010), 7 cajas (2012), La Enamorada (2012), Latas Vacías (2014), La Chiperita (2015), Los Buscadores (2017), Leal (2018), Las Herederas (2018), y El Supremo Manuscrito (2019). En las películas seleccionadas se encontraron personajes con signos y síntomas que pueden resultar útiles para enseñar algunos de los principales síndromes psiquiátricos: trastornos depresivos, ansiedad, intentos de suicidio, rasgos obsesivo-compulsivos, trastornos de la personalidad, ideas delirantes, alteraciones del control de los impulsos y adicciones. Conclusión: el cine paraguayo, cada vez más rico y diverso, además de ser una fuente de inspiración y entretenimiento, puede ayudar en la enseñanza de la Medicina en general, y de la Psiquiatría en particular.

Este trabajo realiza un análisis del estado de la adopción de las aulas virtuales de la Universidad de Oriente para acercarse a las posibles causas de sus limitaciones. Se tienen en cuenta indicadores como: el soporte tecnológico, la organización de la preparación de los docentes, lo usuarios registrados, las aulas vacías, las actividades y los recursos que se emplean, la actitud hacia las tecnologías y las creencias tecnológicas. El análisis reveló algunos de los retos que tiene la institución frente a la digitalización de sus procesos.

El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar las opiniones que tiene el personal de salud de un hospital de tercer nivel sobre el maltrato infantil. El estudio fue observacional, descriptivo, temporalmente prospectivo, con muestreo no probabilístico de casos consecutivos. Se encuestó a personal de salud que prestaba servicios en el Hospital de Clínicas de la Universidad Nacional de Asunción, por medio de un cuestionario estandarizado. Se entrevistó a 77 profesionales. En lo que hace a los resultados acerca de las creencias sobre los hijos, las opciones “no mostrarle afecto” y “no atender sus necesidades básicas” fueron significativamente más graves para las mujeres. En cuanto a las creencias relacionadas con los padres, los comportamientos más observados en la vida cotidiana fueron “gritos” y “amenazas”. En cuanto a la gravedad y frecuencia de la conducta, se observó que el mayor acuerdo estuvo en que “los padres que usan drogas tienen más probabilidades de maltratar a sus hijos”. Para hacer frente a la problemática del maltrato infantil, desde el ámbito de la salud pública, es fundamental conocer si los profesionales tienen las herramientas y conocimientos suficientes para abordar esta situación, y establecer planes para mejorar dichos conocimientos. En Paraguay, el maltrato infantil no es infrecuente. La negligencia o abandono es el maltrato más frecuente, seguido por abuso sexual.

La inserción de las tecnologías en el proceso docente educativo exige de un docente mejor preparado académicamente y que esté dotado de las habilidades profesionales que le permitan utilizar los recursos didácticos que se encuentran en la red universitaria sustentado por el portal académico. Los docentes universitarios deben ofrecer las Tecnologías de Aprendizaje y el Conocimiento (TAC) como reorientación de las Tecnologías de la Información y las Comunicaciones no solo en el uso de estos servicios como herramienta de apoyo a la docencia, su implementación y uso debe imbricar el trabajo del docente-estudiante para que los trabajos con los recursos didácticos, enriquezcan los conocimientos y procederes durante el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje de forma más dinámica y profunda. Usar adecuadamente las TAC, los softwares educativos, los entornos virtuales de aprendizaje, unido a otros recursos tecnológicos que se encuentran en la red universitaria imponen de nuevos modos para su explotación en la formación inicial. El acceso y utilización de estos medios didácticos contemporáneos de manera coherente en los procesos cognitivos y pedagógicos potencian el empleo del discurso tecnológico en los docentes universitarios.

En todos los protocolos de receptores para trasplante renal es fundamental la valoración por un psiquiatra, de preferencia con experiencia en esta área en particular, con el fin de descartar alguna enfermedad mental grave (lo cual es contraindicación absoluta para la realización del trasplante renal). En la valoración del nivel y naturaleza de la salud mental y de la psicopatología del candidato se incluyen una serie de aspectos: la dimensión emocional y afectiva, el nivel de abstracción y capacidad de pensar, las capacidades de relación y comunicación con los demás y consigo mismo, las posibilidades de una adecuada adaptación al medio, el nivel de introyección de valores éticos, la motivación para el desarrollo personal y la preservación de la vida. En este artículo de revisión se exponen sucintamente conceptos relacionados a la valoración psiquiátrica y psicopatológica en el contexto del trasplante renal. Palabras clave: Trasplante renal; Valoración; Psiquiatría; Psicopatología. ABSTRACT Assessment by a psychiatrist, preferably with experience in this particular area, is essential in all kidney transplant recipient protocols, in order to rule out serious mental illness (which is an absolute contraindication to performing a kidney transplant). In the assessment of the level and nature of the candidate's mental health and psychopathology, a series of aspects are included: the emotional and affective dimension, the level of abstraction and ability to think, the capacities for relationship and communication with others and with oneself, the possibilities of an adequate adaptation to the environment, the level of introjection of ethical values, the motivation for personal development and the preservation of life. This review article briefly presents concepts related to psychiatric and psychopathological assessment in the context of kidney transplantation. Keywords: Kidney transplant; Assessment; Psychiatry; Psychopathology.

Throughout human history, bacteria and fungi have caused infections that are difficult to combat. For this reason, countless research groups have developed novel compounds to solve this problem. Thiazole and benzothiazole are present in different structures with interesting biological effects and are used to develop new effective antimicrobial agents. Moreover, nitrogen atoms that are present in this heterocycle allow for coordination with various metals, forming metal complexes that enhance the biological activity of organic ligands that are often used as commercial drugs. This bibliographical review summarizes the copper complexes that use thiazole and benzothiazole as ligands and that report efficient antimicrobial activity against different bacteria and fungi.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a heavy impact on daily life, leading to physical and psychosocial consequences. Nowadays, clinicians and health researchers are particularly interested in describing and facing the long-term effects of COVID-19, also known as “long-COVID syndrome”. Pandemic fatigue has been defined as a cluster of demotivation, tiredness, and psychological effects that emerge gradually over time after the infection or through the adoption of the recommended measures to combat it. In this study, we report the findings of a large survey conducted in South America involving 1448 participants (mean age: 33.9 ± 11.2 years old) from Argentina, Bolivia, Uruguay, Peru, and Paraguay. An online survey was launched through the common social media based on a specific assessment aimed to detect the prevalence of pandemic fatigue and associated factors. Socio-demographic characteristics, medical, and personal information were collected; the Pandemic Fatigue Scale (PFS) and the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) were also administered. We found mid-levels of pandemic fatigue among respondents (21.7 ± 7.95 score at PFS) as well as significant anxiety related to the COVID-19 pandemic (1.56 ± 2.76 score at CAS). In addition, pandemic fatigue was significantly associated with the experience of the loss of a relative/friend due to COVID-19, anxiety related to the infection, and reliance on social media as a primary source of information on the pandemic. Vaccination significantly reduced the levels of fatigue among respondents. Our findings may add to the international debate regarding the long-term health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and strategies to manage them in the general population of South America.

Industrial liquid/solid fluidized bed heat exchangers are commonly used with particle recycling systems to allow an increased superficial velocity and higher heat transfer rates. Here, experimental results are reported on a novel helical flow channel geometry for liquid/solid fluidized beds which allow higher heat transfer rates and reduced complexity by operating below the particle transport fluid velocity. This eliminates the complexity of particle recycle systems whilst still delivering a compact heat exchanger. The qualitative character of the fluidization was studied for a range of particle types and sizes under several inclinations of the helices and various hydraulic diameters. The best fluidization combinations were further studied to obtain heat transfer coefficients and pressure drops. Improvements over the heat exchange from a plain concentric tube in an annulus were obtained to the following degree: vertical fluidized bed, 27%; helical baffles, 34 to 54%; and fluidized bed with helical baffles, 69 to 89%.

Introduction: Long QT syndrome is the main arrhythmogenic disease responsible for sudden death in infants, especially in the first days of life. Performing an electrocardiogram in newborns could enable early diagnosis and adoption of therapeutic measures focused on preventing lethal arrhythmogenic events. However, the inclusion of an electrocardiogram in neonatal screening protocols still remains a matter of discussion. To comprehensively analyse the potential clinical value of performing an electrocardiogram and subsequent follow-up in a cohort of newborns.Methods: Electrocardiograms were performed in 685 neonates within the first week of life. One year follow-up was performed if QTc > 450 ms identified. Comprehensive genetic analysis using massive sequencing was performed in all cases with QTc > 470 ms.Results: We identified 54 neonates with QTc > 450 ms/ 480 ms at birth and, if persistent, pharmacological treatment was administrated during follow-up. A rare variant was identified as the potential cause of long QT syndrome in five cases. Three cases showed a family history of sudden arrhythmogenic death.Conclusions: Our prospective study identifies 0.14% of cases with a definite long QT, supporting implementation of electrocardiograms in routine pediatric protocols. It is an effective, simple and non-invasive approach that can help prevent sudden death in neonates and their relatives. Genetic analyses help to unravel the cause of arrhythmogenic disease in diagnosing neonates. Further, clinical assessment and genetic analysis of relatives allowed early identification of family members at risk of arrhythmias helping to adopt preventive personalized measures.

En la investigación organizacional se ha destacado que para que un directivo sea efectivo en su puesto debe saber tomar decisiones. Se ha señalado que esta habilidad está implicada en el éxito o fracaso de la organización. Pese a ello, aún no se cuenta con un instrumento que evalúe la toma de decisiones en las organizaciones enfocado en habilidades directivas. El objetivo de este estudio fue presentar la Escala de Toma de Decisiones en Directivos (ETDD), así como mostrar evidencia de confiabilidad y validez estadística. Se realizó un estudio transversal en donde participaron 235 directivos mexicanos. Se llevaron a cabo análisis de consistencia interna, un análisis factorial abierto (AFA) y cerrado (AFC). Los resultados mostraron un valor de confiabilidad aceptable (α= .884), un KMO=.909 y una X2=1684.057 (105), p

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to identify the biomedical signals of short-track athletes by evaluating the effects of monthly strength training on changes in their neuromuscular profile, strength, and power parameters of the lower limb muscles. Muscle asymmetry, which can cause a risk of injury, was also evaluated.Methods and resultsThis study involved female athletes, age 18.8 ± 2.7 years, with a height of 162 ± 2.4 cm, and weight of 55.9 ± 3.9 kg. Before and after the monthly preparatory period prior to the season, strength measurements were assessed through the Swift SpeedMat platform, and reactivity of the lower limb muscles was assessed with tensiomyography (TMG). The athletes were also tested before and after the recovery training period. In the test after strength training, all average countermovement jump (CMJ) results improved. Flight time showed an increase with a moderate to large effect, using both legs (5.21%). Among the TMG parameters, time contraction (Tc) changed globally with a decrease (-5.20%). Changes in the results of the test after recovery training were most often not significant.ConclusionA monthly period of strength training changes the neuromuscular profile of short-track female athletes, with no significant differences between the right and left lower limbs.

This study developed a theoretical model for the determination of the Coke Anisotropy Quotient (CAQ) of semi-coke from the properties of its precursor coal. This is an useful parameter to define the resistance and reactivity of semi-coke in the blast furnace. For 36 semi-coke samples, a textural analysis was performed alongside a fluidity test to determine the real CAQ. The main textures observed were: isotropic and circular for high volatile bituminous coals (HVB); lenticular and fine ribbons for the medium volatile bituminous coals (MVB); and medium and thick ribbons for the low volatile bituminous coals (LVB). The CAQ varied in a range from 1 to 11. A principal component analysis (PCA) and multiple regression allowed to discriminated the importance of certain coal properties, in determining the CAQ to be recognized and to estimate parameters of the mathematical model. The statistical analysis suggested that CAQ can be best predicted from the fluidity, volatile matter, and Ro of the parent coals. The veracity of this model result was then tested using a second dataset from Poland. This work optimizes the usefulness of standard datasets in the prediction of CAQ's offering a means of quality control that could be implemented in Colombian coke production.

En el seno de la organización informal, se desarrollan componentes estructurales que presentan ciertos rasgos culturales específicos de este fenómeno social, razón por la cual el presente artículo tuvo como finalidad realizar una aproximación a las categorías conceptuales que comprenden los aspectos culturales del fenómeno de la organización informal. Para el desarrollo del estudio, se realizó una revisión sistemática sobre el fenómeno social de la organización informal en la literatura de administración y las organizaciones, se delimitó un marco de conceptos sobre el fenómeno de la cultura en las organizaciones. Los resultados obtenidos del análisis del contenido de las definiciones seleccionadas en la revisión de literatura permitieron categorizar el fenómeno de la organización informal en tres componentes estructurales que corresponden al liderazgo, la cooperación y la comunicación. Por otra parte, los aspectos culturales se pueden agrupar en las categorías de sistema social, la figura del líder, lazos y vínculos, contenidos y representaciones simbólicas. Los diversos conceptos analizados sobre la organización informal permitieron la identificación tanto de características relacionales como culturales de este fenómeno social en el interior de las organizaciones sociales; por lo que, la organización informal no se presenta meramente como una visión dicotómica de la empresa, sino que, se constituye en un elemento necesario para la comprensión de la realidad social que componen la organización.

Introduction: Any viral pandemic is a global health and mental health issue. The World Health Organization and mental health associations have warned that the current COVID-19 pandemic will lead to a drastic increase of stress-related conditions and mental health issues globally.Materials and Methods: An online web-based survey has been launched from 10 to 15 April 2020 in Paraguay in order to collect information regarding the stress related to the quarantine during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been spread through social media (“WhatsApp,” “Twitter,” and “Facebook”). Two thousand two hundred and six Paraguayan citizens, over 18 years of age, completed the survey voluntarily. Socio-demographics as well as ratings at Self-perceived Stress Scale have been collected and analyzed.Results: Two thousand two hundred and six subjects (74.12% men) aged between 18 and 75 with an average of 34 ± 11 years old completed the survey. 12.42% (276 subjects) of sample reported a preexisting diagnosis of mental disorder, and 175 participants (7.93%) reported an increase of preexisting symptoms with the onset of COVID-19 quarantine. 41.97% of them had anxiety and 54.38% did not receive any specific treatment. The general population rated 18.10 ± 5.99 at Self-perceived Stress Scale, which indicates a moderate level of self-perceived stress. Significant association was found between higher levels of stress and female sex, being single, or reporting preexisting mental disorder, above all anxiety and depression (p < 0.01). In fact, in 63.87% of mentally ill subjects (n = 175), the quarantine has worsened symptoms of preexisting mental disorders.Conclusion: This study suggests a stressful impact of COVID-19 pandemic, with the majority of participants reporting a moderate level of self-perceived stress. We suggest mental health services to provide a phone-based or web-based support to the general population in order to contrast the psychological impact of the pandemic. This approach may improve the accessibility to mental healthcare services in Paraguay, especially in times of social distancing.

Introduction: Eating disorders (EDs) have increased globally in women of childbearing age, related to the concern for body shape promoted in industrialized countries. Pregnancy may exacerbate a previous ED or conversely may be a chance for improving eating patterns due to the mother's concern for the unborn baby. EDs may impact pregnancy evolution and increase the risk of adverse outcomes such as miscarriage, preterm delivery, poor fetal growth, or malformations, but the knowledge on this topic is limited.Methods: We performed a systematic review of studies on humans in order to clarify the mechanisms underpinning the adverse pregnancy outcomes in patients with EDs.Results: Although unfavorable fetal development could be multifactorial, maternal malnutrition, altered hormonal pathways, low pre-pregnancy body mass index, and poor gestational weight gain, combined with maternal psychopathology and stress, may impair the evolution of pregnancy. Environmental factors such as malnutrition or substance of abuse may also induce epigenetic changes in the fetal epigenome, which mark lifelong health concerns in offspring.Conclusions: The precocious detection of dysfunctional eating behaviors in the pre-pregnancy period and an early multidisciplinary approach comprised of nutritional support, psychotherapeutic techniques, and the use of psychotropics if necessary, would prevent lifelong morbidity for both mother and fetus. Further prospective studies with large sample sizes are needed in order to design a structured intervention during every stage of pregnancy and in the postpartum period.

Prenatal alcohol exposure is associated to different physical, behavioral, cognitive, and neurological impairments collectively known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. The underlying mechanisms of ethanol toxicity are not completely understood. Experimental studies during human pregnancy to identify new diagnostic biomarkers are difficult to carry out beyond genetic or epigenetic analyses in biological matrices. Therefore, animal models are a useful tool to study the teratogenic effects of alcohol on the central nervous system and analyze the benefits of promising therapies. Animal models of alcohol spectrum disorder allow the analysis of key variables such as amount, timing and frequency of ethanol consumption to describe the harmful effects of prenatal alcohol exposure. In this review, we aim to synthetize neurodevelopmental disabilities in rodent fetal alcohol spectrum disorder phenotypes, considering facial dysmorphology and fetal growth restriction. We examine the different neurodevelopmental stages based on the most consistently implicated epigenetic mechanisms, cell types and molecular pathways, and assess the advantages and disadvantages of murine models in the study of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, the different routes of alcohol administration, and alcohol consumption patterns applied to rodents. Finally, we analyze a wide range of phenotypic features to identify fetal alcohol spectrum disorder phenotypes in murine models, exploring facial dysmorphology, neurodevelopmental deficits, and growth restriction, as well as the methodologies used to evaluate behavioral and anatomical alterations produced by prenatal alcohol exposure in rodents.

The first goal of this work was the description of a model addressed to quantify the carbon footprint in Spanish autochthonous dairy sheep farms (Manchega group), foreign dairy sheep farms (foreigners group: Lacaune and Assaf breeds), and Spanish autochthonous dairy goat farms (Florida group). The second objective was to analyze the GHG emission mitigation potential of 17 different livestock farming practices that were implemented by 36 different livestock farms, in terms of CO2e per hectare (ha), CO2e per livestock unit (LU), and CO2e per liter of fat- and protein-corrected milk (FPCM). The study showed the following results: 1.655 kg CO2e per ha, 6.397 kg CO2e per LU, and 3.78 kg CO2e per liter of FPCM in the Manchega group; 12.634 kg CO2e per ha, 7.810 CO2e kg per LU, and 2.77 kg CO2e per liter of FPCM in the Foreigners group and 1.198 kg CO2e per ha, 6.507 kg CO2e per LU, and 3.06 kg CO2e per liter of FPCM in Florida group. In summary, purchasing off-farm animal feed would increase emissions by up to 3.86%. Conversely, forage management, livestock inventory, electrical supply, and animal genetic improvement would reduce emissions by up to 6.29%, 4.3%, 3.52%, and 0.8%, respectively; finally, an average rise of 2 °C in room temperature would increase emissions by up to 0.62%.

Not only the geography but other environmental features of Cuenca province (Spain) makes it rich in plant species of very different origins, some of which have been attributed to different categories of protection. The purpose of this study was to select species that might help understand migratory or speciation processes, perhaps due to their scarcity and their unique distribution, and irrespective of whether they are included in any normative framework or not. As such, here we present the method used to elaborate an atlas of the relatively rare and threatened flora in this province, using Erodium macrocalyx (G. López) López Udias, Fabregat & Mateo as a model species.

Abstract Background Vaccination of mice with tumors treated with Doxorubicin promotes a T cell immunity that relies on dendritic cell (DC) activation and is responsible for tumor control in vaccinated animals. Despite Doxorubicin in combination with Cyclophosphamide (A/C) is widely used to treat breast cancer patients, the stimulating effect of A/C on T and APC compartments and its correlation with patient’s clinical response remains to be proved. Methods In this prospective study, we designed an in vitro system to monitor various immunological readouts in PBMCs obtained from a total of 17 breast cancer patients before, and after neoadjuvant anti-tumor therapy with A/C. Results The results show that before treatment, T cells and DCs, exhibit a marked unresponsiveness to in vitro stimulus: whereas T cells exhibit poor TCR internalization and limited expression of CD154 in response to anti-CD3/CD28/CD2 stimulation, DCs secrete low levels of IL-12p70 and limited CD83 expression in response to pro-inflammatory cytokines. Notably, after treatment the responsiveness of T and APC compartments was recovered, and furthermore, this recovery correlated with patients’ residual cancer burden stage. Conclusions Our results let us to argue that the model used here to monitor the T and APC compartments is suitable to survey the recovery of immune surveillance and to predict tumor response during A/C chemotherapy.

Context: Chitosan has received attention as a functional, sustainably renewable, nontoxic and biodegradable biopolymer for pharmaceutical applications. Aims: To evaluate the release of dibucaine hydrochloride from semisolid vehicles of oil/aqueous type emulsion and aqueous gels, stabilized by using chitosan (CH) or chitosan acetate (CHAc). Methods: Emulsions were developed by varying the emulsifying agent: polysorbate 80, CH or CHAc and by combining CH with polysorbate 80 or CHAc with polysorbate 80. The hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose F4M was added as a stabilizing agent in gel formulations. The release rates of model drug from semisolid vehicles were measured by using a dialysis sac. Drug release was also quantified by using a validated UV-VIS spectrophotometric method. Results: The pH values showed minimal changes for emulsion and gel formulations. The drug is a cationic salt, and it is not able to bind polymer cations by electrostatic repulsion. The rheological property of the vehicle type emulsion was adjusted to plastic and pseudo-plastic fluid to the gels. The drug release was independent of the viscosity of vehicles. Dibucaine release from both types of formulation was found to follow a square-root-of-time kinetic model, but a higher rate of release was obtained from gel formulations. Conclusions: It was shown that chitosan was adsorbed to the surface of polysorbate 80-coated droplets, and that the electrostatic attraction between the non-ionic surfactant and the drug retarded its release from a semisolid system. The multilayer emulsions showed more influence of the release of drug than CH or CHAc single layer emulsion.

Presenta los hallazgos del proyecto Ambientes filosóficos y lectura crítica para la enseñanza de la filosofía y el filosofar. Como objetivo general, se describen posibilidades de la lectura crítica en contextos filosóficos relacionados con la enseñanza de la filosofía y el libre pensamiento, con estudiantes de grado IX del Country Bilingüal School. Pregunta por la relación entre comprensión y enseñanza, es elaborada una propuesta que permite pensar la enseñanza de la filosofía con base en la lectura crítica. Procura mejorar procesos lectores en ambientes filosóficos. El procedimiento metodológico explora, de manera teórica y práctica, referentes teóricos y antecedentes investigativos, también observa y analiza dinámicas de lectura en diversos contextos, basado en la lógica de los participantes. Se proyecta la relación entre las exigencias de un saber y las condiciones en que es enseñado y aprendido. De esta manera, el desarrollo de la criticidad frente a las posibilidades de la enseñanza, supone decisión, empoderamiento y autonomía frente a procesos de lectura tradicionales, que fueron determinados desde la obligación y repetición de contenidos.

La denominada ‘Guerra de las Cien Horas’, en que se enfrentaron Honduras y El Salvador en 1969, es internacionalmente conocida como la ‘Guerra del Fútbol’, debido a que tuvo lugar mientras dichas naciones disputaban la clasificación al Mundial de Fútbol que se realizaría al año siguiente. Aunque el conflicto tuvo causas mucho más serias que una justa deportiva, en el imaginario popular fuera de Centroamérica parece haber quedado fija la imagen de dos países que se fueron a la guerra por un partido de fútbol. En este artículo se señalan las verdaderas causas que provocaron la conflagración y se analiza la memoria de este oscuro episodio de la historia contemporánea de Centroamérica. A pesar de que la guerra tuvo graves repercusiones para toda la región, se ha escrito relativamente poco sobre el tema. Entre otras cosas, echó abajo los planes de desarrollo económico regional materializados entonces en el Mercado Común Centroamericano y sirvió para consolidar a las dictaduras militares de ambos países. Las memorias nacionales tienden hacia el discurso patriótico; pero la ficción literaria ha tomado claramente distancia del conflicto.