Time warping between main epidemic time series in epidemiological surveillance.

The most common reported epidemic time series in epidemiological surveillance are the daily or weekly incidence of new cases, the hospital admission count, the ICU admission count, and the death toll, which played such a prominent role in the struggle to monitor the Covid-19 pandemic. We show that pairs of such curves are related to each other by a generalized renewal equation depending on a smooth time varying delay and a smooth ratio generalizing the reproduction number. Such a functional relation is also explored for pairs of simultaneous curves measuring the same indicator in two neighboring countries. Given two such simultaneous time series, we develop, based on a signal processing approach, an efficient numerical method for computing their time varying delay and ratio curves, and we verify that its results are consistent. Indeed, they experimentally verify symmetry and transitivity requirements and we also show, using realistic simulated data, that the method faithfully recovers time delays and ratios. We discuss several real examples where the method seems to display interpretable time delays and ratios. The proposed method generalizes and unifies many recent related attempts to take advantage of the plurality of these health data across regions or countries and time, providing a better understanding of the relationship between them. An implementation of the method is publicly available at the EpiInvert CRAN package.

l-carnitine enhances the kinematics and protects the sperm membranes of chilled and frozen-thawed Peruvian Paso horse spermatozoa.

l-carnitine (LC) transports fatty acids to the mitochondria for energy production, reducing lipid availability for peroxidation through ß-oxidation. This research examines the effect of LC supplementation to two skimmed milk-based extenders on the cryosurvival of chilled (5°C) and frozen-thawed Peruvian Paso horse spermatozoa .An initial experiment determined the optimal LC concentration (0, 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 mM) when added to INRA-96® and UHT (skimmed milk + 6% egg yolk) extenders, using nine ejaculates from three stallions chilled for up to 96 h. Subsequently, the effect of 25 mM LC supplementation (the optimal concentration) on chilling (INRA-96) and freezing (INRA-Freeze®) extenders was evaluated using eight pooled samples from sixteen ejaculates (2 ejaculates/pool) from four stallions. Results indicated that all LC concentrations produced significantly higher values (P<0.05) for kinematic variables (total [TM] and progressive motilities, curvilinear [VCL] and straight-line [VSL] velocity, and beat-cross frequency [BCF]), and the integrity of plasma/acrosome membranes (IPIA) compared to non-supplemented chilled sperm samples for up to 96 h with both extenders. Moreover, the use of 25 mM LC was more efficient (P<0.05) in preserving the post-chilled values of velocity, BCF, and IPIA for the long term than lower LC concentrations (1-10 mM). Post-thaw values of total motility, the amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH), and IPIA were significantly improved (P<0.05) when INRA-Freeze extender was supplemented with 25 mM LC. In conclusion, supplementation of l-carnitine to skimmed milk-based extenders enhanced kinematic variables and protected the membrane integrity in chilled and frozen-thawed Peruvian Paso horse spermatozoa.

The clinical manifestations of hyperostosis frontalis interna: A qualitative systematic review of cases.

Hyperostosis frontalis interna (HFI) is a condition defined as abnormal bone growth on the posterior aspect of the frontal bone. Despite uncertainties regarding its etiology and prognosis, clinicians typically consider HFI a benign pathology. There are no studies organizing all the possible manifestations of the disease. The present study aims to organize all the clinical manifestations of HFI within the current case report/series literature. A blinded PRISMA-guided search of HFI case reports and case series yielded 43 relevant articles and provided 110 patients for analysis. The symptoms presenting alongside HFI were extracted and tabulated. We found high-frequency clinical manifestations of HFI (>20% of patients) to include headaches, obesity, vertigo/dizziness symptoms, cognitive decline, and depression. An additional 15 symptoms were tabulated at frequencies found to be less than 20%. Based on our analysis, we suggest the constellation of high-frequency symptoms can offer a more comprehensive clinical picture of symptomatic HFI which may be valuable to consider for clinicians and future researchers in the field of HFI.

Hiatal Hernia of Stomach and Lesser Omentum in a Cadaver: Is It a Type III or IV?

Hiatal hernias, protrusions of abdominal viscera through the esophageal hiatus, are classified into four types. Types I and II involve ascent of the stomach without affecting the gastroesophageal junction. Types III and IV involve the gastroesophageal junction. Type IV specifically may have stomach as well as other abdominal organ involvement, such as pancreas or omentum. Among these types, type IV is the most complex and rare form, accounting for only 0.1% of all cases of hiatal hernias. This report presents a case of a type IV hiatal hernia involving the lesser omentum and a significant portion of the stomach in an 86-year-old male cadaver with a history of mediastinal surgery. To our knowledge, this presentation in a cadaver has not previously been reported in the literature.  This case highlights classification inconsistencies in the literature, particularly regarding type IV hiatal hernias. It is unclear given the current classification system, whether this presentation would be considered a type III or type IV hiatal hernia as it fits both criteria and there are several interpretations of the criteria of a type IV hiatal hernia. Inconsistencies in the classification system may impede standardization of care. This report highlights the need for a more precise classification system that better accounts for anatomical changes and clinical presentation.

Interaction between bacterial microbiota and nematode parasite communities in sheep's gastrointestinal tract.

The economic impact of gastrointestinal (GI) nematode infections on livestock production is well documented worldwide. Increasing evidence supports the hypothesis that parasite colonization induces significant changes in the GI tract environment and, therefore, in the landscape where the microbiota and parasites occur. Understanding the interactions between bacterial and parasite populations in the digestive tract of livestock may be useful to design parasite control strategies based on microbiota modification. The aims of this work were to investigate the impact of the oxytetracycline-mediated manipulation of the gut microbial community on the composition of GI nematode populations in naturally infected sheep and to explore changes in the GI microbial communities after nematode population treatment with the anthelmintic compound monepantel. Extensive manipulation of the GI microbiota with a therapeutic dose of the long-acting oxytetracycline formulation did not induce significant changes in the GI nematode burden. The gut microbiota of treated animals returned to control levels 17 days after treatment, suggesting strong resilience of the sheep microbial community to antibiotic-mediated microbiota perturbation. A significant decrease of the bacterial Mycoplasmataceae family (Log2FC = -4, Padj = 0.001) and a marked increase of the Methanobacteriaceae family (Log2FC = 2.9, Padj = 0.018) were observed in the abomasum of sheep receiving the monepantel treatment. While a comprehensive evaluation of the interactions among GI mycoplasma, methanobacteria and nematode populations deserves further assessment, the bacteria-nematode population interactions should be included in future control programs in livestock production. Understanding how bacteria and parasites may influence each other in the GI tract environment may substantially contribute to the knowledge of the role of microbiota composition in nematode parasite establishment and the role of the parasites in the microbiota composition.

Barcode-style lateral flow immunochromatographic strip for the semi-quantitative detection of ochratoxin A in coffee samples.

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin contaminating agricultural products produced by fungi, associated with important toxic effects. Thus, the development of fast, sensitive, and economical approaches for OTA detection is crucial. In this study, a barcode-style lateral flow assay for the semi-quantitative detection of OTA in coffee samples was developed. To achieve this goal, a BSA-OTA complex was immobilized in three test zones to compete with OTA molecules in the sample for binding with anti-OTA antibodies labeled with gold nanoparticles. Different concentrations of OTA in the sample produced distinct colour patterns, allowing semi-quantification of the analyte. The assay exhibited high sensitivity, with a limit of detection of 2.5 µg.L-1, and high reproducibility, with variation coefficient values between 2% and 13%. Moreover, the colour patterns obtained in the analysis with coffee samples were similar to the results obtained with standard OTA solutions, demonstrating a reliable applicability in real samples.

Anthelmintic resistance of gastrointestinal nematodes in cattle in Brazil and Argentina - current status and global perspectives.

This review outlines the current state of anthelmintic resistance (AHR) of gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) among cattle in Argentina and Brazil, emphasizing the economic repercussions, animal health and welfare. The analysis explores factors associated with AHR and proposes a potential solution: the use of drug combinations. Both countries are grappling with a severe AHR scenario in cattle, having progressed through incipient, established, and advanced phases, leading to extreme cases of animal mortality due to ineffective control strategies. Genera such as Cooperia and Haemonchus have the highest reports of resistance, with Oesophagostomum radiatum also posing significant problems. While oral benzimidazoles and levamisole remain effective in most herds, moxidectin is entering an advanced resistance phase, and avermectins are increasingly deemed ineffective. The review explores the impact ofclimate, mixed grazing, animal movement and other husbandry practices, and the relationship between ectoparasite control and the emergence of resistant helminths. Notably, the discussion includes the strategic use of drug combinations as a valuable approach to address resistant GINs control in livestock, highlighting its significant potential to mitigate the challenges posed by AHR in the cattle industry of these countries.

Ovarian Sex Cord Stromal Tumor in a Free-Ranging Brown Bear (Ursus arctos).

Reports on neoplasms in bears are scarce, especially concerning ovarian tumors. A large primary ovarian neoplasm with multiple metastasis was found during the necropsy of a 14-year-old free-ranging Eurasian brown bear (Ursus arctos) from Northwestern Spain. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry allowed for the diagnosis of a sex cord stromal tumor. This is a complex group of neoplasms which differ in the predominant cell morphology and immunohistochemical features. The microscopic examination revealed two types of cells, one with eosinophilic cytoplasm, intermingled with larger vacuolated cells rich in lipids. The evaluation of the immunoreactivity to different markers, frequently used in the characterization of gonadal tumors (INHA, inhibin-alpha; PLAP, placental alkaline phosphatase; Ki-67; α-SMA, actin alpha-smooth muscle) and inflammation patterns (IBA1, ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule for macrophages; CD3 for T lymphocytes; CD20 for B lymphocytes), displayed significant INHA positive immunostaining of neoplastic cells, as well as inflammatory cell infiltration, mainly composed of macrophages and B lymphocytes. These findings were consistent with a malignant ovarian steroid cell tumor, not otherwise specified. The present study characterizes an unusual type of neoplasm, and also represents the first report of an ovarian sex cord stromal tumor in Ursidae.

In vivo Assessment of AMP2, a Novel Ceramic-Binding BMP-2, in Ovine Lumbar Interbody Fusion.

STUDY DESIGN: Assessment of bone formation in an ovine interbody fusion study. OBJECTIVE: To compare OsteoAdapt SP which consists of AMP-2, a modified variant of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein (rhBMP-2) bound to a tricalcium phosphate-containing carrier, to autologous iliac crest bone graft (ICBG) in a lumbar interbody fusion model. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Treatment of lumbar disc degeneration often involves spinal fusion to reduce pain and motion at the affected spinal segment by insertion of a cage containing bone graft material. Three graft materials were compared in this study - ICBG and OsteoAdapt SP (low or high dose). METHODS: Sheep underwent lateral lumbar fusion surgery with PEEK or Titanium interbody cages packed with OsteoAdapt SP (low or high dose) or ICBG. Outcomes were evaluated at 8-, 16- and 26- weeks. Newly formed bone quality, bone mineralization, and fusion were assessed by manual palpation, qualitative and semi-quantitative histopathology, histomorphometry, computed tomography (CT) and microCT (mCT) analysis. RESULTS: OsteoAdapt SP was implanted into 43 animals and ICBG into 21 animals (L3-L4). No group showed evidence of systemic toxicity by multiple assessments. All levels were fused by manual palpation at 26-weeks. Serial CT scans showed increasing fusion scores over time. Both doses of OsteoAdapt SP resulted in robust new bone formation and progression of fusion in the interbody cage. Range of motion tests for treatment groups were lower compared to ICBG at 8- and 16-weeks. Similarly, histology at 8-weeks demonstrated more robust new bone formation for both OsteoAdapt SP groups compared to autograft. CONCLUSION: We have demonstrated the preclinical safety and efficacy of OsteoAdapt SP in a clinically relevant large animal model; supporting faster and more robust new bone formation within the interbody cage, comparable to or better than the gold standard, ICBG, in all measures.

Sequencing and description of the genome of a strain of Stenotrophomonas geniculata isolated from a patient infected with COVID-19 at Hospital Regional No.1 de Charo, Michoacán, México.

Stenotrophomonas is a bacterial genus that can be found in various environments, such as water, soil, and clinical samples. Due to their high genetic and phenotypic diversity, it is difficult to properly identify and classify all isolates. The COVID-19 pandemic caused an increase in nosocomial infections, which played a major role in the high mortality rate among patients in intensive care. This is the first report of the identification of S. geniculata as a nosocomial opportunistic pathogen isolated from a patient with COVID-19. Their genome was isolated, sequenced, and assembled, and it consists of 4,488,090 bp in 24 contigs, 4,103 coding sequences, and a G+C content of 66.58%.

Prevalence of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis in HIV-Positive and Diabetic Patients in Sinaloa, Mexico: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are among the main risk factors for the development of TB and increase the risk of drug-resistant TB developing (DR-TB). The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of DR-TB in patients with HIV or T2DM in Sinaloa, Mexico. This was an observational and cross-sectional study. The analysis was conducted using the clinical data of patients registered on the National Epidemiological Surveillance System for TB (SINAVE/PUI-TB) platform with a presumed diagnosis of TB during 2019 to 2021 in Sinaloa, Mexico. The prevalence of DR-TB was estimated in HIV and T2DM patients, as well as the odds ratios for their sociodemographic variables, using the Chi-square test. There were 2, 4, and 4 TB-HIV cases and 2, 6, and 9 TB-T2DM cases during 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively, whereas there were 2 and 1 DRTB-HIV and DRTB-T2DM cases, respectively. The results indicated that the WHO guidelines for DR-TB were not properly applied to this high-risk population. Hence, the appropriate application of guidelines for TB and DR-TB detection in these patients needs to be immediately implemented by the State health system.

Selective Bias Virtual Screening for Discovery of Promising Antimalarial Candidates targeting Plasmodium N-Myristoyltransferase.

Malaria remains a significant public health challenge, with Plasmodium vivax being the species responsible for the most prevalent form of the disease. Given the limited therapeutic options available, the search for new antimalarials against P. vivax is urgent. This study aims to identify new inhibitors for P. vivax N-myristoyltransferase (PvNMT), an essential drug target against malaria. Through a validated virtual screening campaign, we prioritized 23 candidates for further testing. In the yeast NMT system, seven compounds exhibit a potential inhibitor phenotype. In vitro antimalarial phenotypic assays confirmed the activity of four candidates while demonstrating an absence of cytotoxicity. Enzymatic assays reveal LabMol-394 as the most promising inhibitor, displaying selectivity against the parasite and a strong correlation within the yeast system. Furthermore, molecular dynamics simulations shed some light into its binding mode. This study constitutes a substantial contribution to the exploration of a selective quinoline scaffold and provides valuable insights into the development of new antimalarial candidates.

Unveiling the Antiviral Capabilities of Targeting Human Dihydroorotate Dehydrogenase against SARS-CoV-2.

The urgent need for effective treatments against emerging viral diseases, driven by drug-resistant strains and new viral variants, remains critical. We focus on inhibiting the human dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (HsDHODH), one of the main enzymes responsible for pyrimidine nucleotide synthesis. This strategy could impede viral replication without provoking resistance. We evaluated naphthoquinone fragments, discovering potent HsDHODH inhibition with IC50 ranging from 48 to 684 nM, and promising in vitro anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity with EC50 ranging from 1.2 to 2.3 µM. These compounds exhibited low toxicity, indicating potential for further development. Additionally, we employed computational tools such as molecular docking and quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models to analyze protein-ligand interactions, revealing that these naphthoquinones exhibit a protein binding pattern similar to brequinar, a potent HsDHODH inhibitor. These findings represent a significant step forward in the search for effective antiviral treatments and have great potential to impact the development of new broad-spectrum antiviral drugs.

Innovative Multistage ML-QSAR Models for Malaria: From Data to Discovery.

Malaria presents a significant challenge to global public health, with around 247 million cases estimated to occur annually worldwide. The growing resistance of Plasmodium parasites to existing therapies underscores the urgent need for new and innovative antimalarial drugs. This study leveraged artificial intelligence (AI) to tackle this complex challenge. We developed multistage Machine Learning Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship (ML-QSAR) models to effectively analyze large datasets and predict the efficacy of chemical compounds against multiple life cycle stages of Plasmodium parasites. We then selected 16 compounds for experimental evaluation, six of which showed at least dual-stage inhibitory activity and one inhibited all life cycle stages tested. Moreover, explainable AI (XAI) analysis provided insights into critical molecular features influencing model predictions, thereby enhancing our understanding of compound interactions. This study not only empowers the development of advanced predictive AI models but also accelerates the identification and optimization of potential antiplasmodial compounds.

Genomic Profiling of Multidrug-Resistant Swine Escherichia coli and Clonal Relationship to Human Isolates in Peru.

The misuse of antibiotics is accelerating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Escherichia coli isolated from farm animals. The genomes of ten multidrug-resistant (MDR) E. coli isolates from pigs were analyzed to determine their sequence types, serotypes, virulence, and AMR genes (ARGs). Additionally, the relationship was evaluated adding all the available genomes of Peruvian E. coli from humans using the cgMLST + HierCC scheme. Two aEPEC O186:H11-ST29 were identified, of which H11 and ST29 are reported in aEPEC isolates from different sources. An isolate ETEC-O149:H10-ST100 was identified, considered a high-risk clone that is frequently reported in different countries as a cause of diarrhea in piglets. One ExPEC O101:H11-ST167 was identified, for which ST167 is an international high-risk clone related to urinary infections in humans. We identified many ARGs, including extended-spectrum ß-lactamase genes, and one ETEC harboring the mcr-1 gene. CgMLST + HierCC analysis differentiated three clusters, and in two, the human isolates were grouped with those of swine in the same cluster. We observed that Peruvian swine MDR E. coli cluster with Peruvian E. coli isolates from healthy humans and from clinical cases, which is of great public health concern and evidence that AMR surveillance should be strengthened based on the One Health approach.

Winds of change a tale of: asthma and microbiome.

The role of the microbiome in asthma is highlighted, considering its influence on immune responses and its connection to alterations in asthmatic patients. In this context, we review the variables influencing asthma phenotypes from a microbiome perspective and provide insights into the microbiome's role in asthma pathogenesis. Previous cohort studies in patients with asthma have shown that the presence of genera such as Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Faecalibacterium, and Bacteroides in the gut microbiome has been associated with protection against the disease. While, the presence of other genera such as Haemophilus, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Moraxella in the respiratory microbiome has been implicated in asthma pathogenesis, indicating a potential link between microbial dysbiosis and the development of asthma. Furthermore, respiratory infections have been demonstrated to impact the composition of the upper respiratory tract microbiota, increasing susceptibility to bacterial diseases and potentially triggering asthma exacerbations. By understanding the interplay between the microbiome and asthma, valuable insights into disease mechanisms can be gained, potentially leading to the development of novel therapeutic approaches.

Calidad de atención interhospitalaria: Revisión sistemática / Quality of interhospital care: Systematic review / Qualidade do atendimento inter-hospitalar: revisão sistemática

En la actualidad la calidad de atención durante los traslados interhospitalarios de pacientes es una tarea compleja, que desafía la capacidad del personal de salud para mantener un ambiente de cuidado alrededor de estos pacientes. Objetivo. Analizar la calidad de atención interhospitalaria. Metodología. Se realizó una revisión sistemática y se evalúa la calidad de atención interhospitalaria. En la búsqueda de información se utilizaron términos DeCS y operadores boleanos con algoritmos (calidad de atención) AND (Interhospitalaria); (Care quality) AND (Interhospital). Considerando estudios de 2017-2023, en bases de datos como PubMed se obtuvieron 48 artículos, PLoS one 5 artículos, Science Direct 11, Scielo 33 artículos, Sage Journals 6, Elsevier 7, Springer Link 5 artículos. De los 131 artículos en total, se eliminaron 70 en base a resúmenes incompletos y se excluyeron 34 artículos que no tenían información completa; obteniendo 17 artículos para realizar la extracción y el análisis de los datos. Conclusión. Existen estrategias para una adecuada atención interhospitalaria, tales como: oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea como una opción para transportar de forma segura a los pacientes con Síndrome de distrés respiratorio agudo grave, es fundamental garantizar medidas de higiene y el suministro de equipos de protección personal para prevenir propagación de enfermedades; asegurar adecuada comunicación e intercambio de información, a través de medios virtuales, tanto para los familiares y personal; es esencial tener un plan general para prevenir cualquier evento impredecible y agudo, mejoran la eficiencia de la prestación de atención médica, lo que finalmente se traduce en mejores resultados para los pacientes.

Currently, the quality of care during interhospital transfers of patients is a complex task, which challenges the ability of health care personnel to maintain a caring environment around these patients. Objective. To analyze the quality of interhospital care. Methodology. A systematic review was carried out and the quality of interhospital care was evaluated. DeCS terms and Boolean operators with algorithms (Care quality) AND (Interhospital); (Care quality) AND (Interhospital) were used in the information search. Considering studies from 2017-2023, in databases such as PubMed 48 articles were obtained, PLoS one 5 articles, Science Direct 11, Scielo 33 articles, Sage Journals 6, Elsevier 7, Springer Link 5 articles. Of the 131 articles in total, 70 were eliminated based on incomplete abstracts and 34 articles that did not have complete information were excluded; obtaining 17 articles to perform data extraction and analysis. Conclusion. There are strategies for adequate interhospital care, such as: extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as an option to safely transport patients with Severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, it is essential to ensure hygiene measures and the provision of personal protective equipment to prevent the spread of disease; ensure adequate communication and exchange of information, through virtual means, both for family members and staff; it is essential to have a general plan to prevent any unpredictable and acute event, improve the efficiency of health care delivery, which ultimately translates into better outcomes for patients.

A qualidade do atendimento durante as transferências inter-hospitalares de pacientes é atualmente uma tarefa complexa, que desafia a capacidade da equipe de saúde de manter um ambiente de cuidado em torno desses pacientes. Objetivo. Analisar a qualidade do atendimento interhospitalar. Metodologia. Realizamos uma revisão sistemática e avaliamos a qualidade do atendimento inter-hospitalar. Na busca de informações, foram utilizados termos do DeCS e operadores booleanos com algoritmos (Care quality) AND (Interhospital); (Care quality) AND (Interhospital). Considerando estudos de 2017 a 2023, foram obtidos 48 artigos em bancos de dados como PubMed, 5 artigos em PLoS one, 11 artigos em Science Direct, 33 artigos em Scielo, 6 artigos em Sage Journals, 7 artigos em Elsevier e 5 artigos em Springer Link. Do total de 131 artigos, 70 artigos foram eliminados com base em resumos incompletos e 34 artigos foram excluídos por não terem informações completas, obtendo-se 17 artigos para extração e análise de dados. Conclusões. Existem estratégias para o atendimento inter-hospitalar adequado, tais como oxigenação por membrana extracorpórea como uma opção para o transporte seguro de pacientes com síndrome da angústia respiratória aguda grave; garantia de medidas de higiene e fornecimento de equipamentos de proteção individual para evitar a propagação de doenças; garantia de comunicação e troca de informações adequadas, por meios virtuais, tanto para os familiares quanto para a equipe; ter um plano geral para evitar qualquer evento imprevisível e agudo é essencial para melhorar a eficiência da prestação de serviços de saúde, o que, em última análise, se traduz em melhores resultados para os pacientes.

Sentidos y significados atribuidos al autoempleo por cuatro profesionistas de la psicología en el contexto mexicano

La flexibilización y precarización estructural del trabajo han llevado, entre otros trabajadores, a un grupo de profesionistas de la psicología a identificar en el autoempleo una forma viable para desempeñarse en la actualidad. Esta experiencia ha representado para ellos una actividad performática que los reta a reinventarse continuamente para adaptarse a los cambios del mercado laboral y que trasforma los sentidos y significados que atribuyen al autoempleo. Con el objetivo de conocer y comprender esos sentidos y significados atribuidos al autoempleo, por medio de un estudio cualitativo de las narrativas y asociaciones de tres psicólogas y un psicólogo autoempleados en México se realizó este estudio. Los resultados develan las experiencias de autoempleo como articulación entre nuevas libertades y dependencias, que significan el trabajo para las y los participantes y desmitifican algunas retóricas del autoempleo. Concluimos que es urgente que las políticas laborales y educativas correspondan a estas realidades actuales del ejercicio libre de las profesiones, no sólo de la psicología.

The flexibilization and structural precariousness of work have led, among other workers, a group of psychology professionals to identify self-employment as a viable way of working in today's world. This experience has represented for them a performative activity, challenging them to reinvent continually themselves in order to adapt to changes in the labor market and transforming the sense and meanings they attribute to self-employment. With the objective to know and understand the sense and meaning attributed to work, the narratives and associations of four self-employed psychologists in Mexico were analyzed through a qualitative study. The results disclose the experiences of self-employment as an articulation between new freedoms and dependencies, which signify work for the participants and demystify some self-employment rhetoric. There is an urgent need for labor and educational policies to adjust to the actual realities of free professionals' practice, not only in the field of psychology.

A flexibilidade e a precariedade estrutural do trabalho levaram, entre outros trabalhadores, um grupo de profissionais da psicologia a identificar no trabalho autônomo uma forma viável de atuar na atualidade. Esta experiência tem representado para eles uma atividade de desempenho que os desafia a reinventar-se continuamente para se adaptar às mudanças do mercado de trabalho e que transforma os sentidos e significados que atribuem ao trabalho por conta própria. Este estudo foi realizado com o objetivo de conhecer e compreender esses sentidos e significados atribuídos ao trabalho autônomo, através de um estudo qualitativo das narrativas e associações de três psicólogos e psicólogos autônomos no México. Os resultados revelam as vivências do trabalho autônomo como articulação entre novas liberdades e dependências, que significam trabalho para os participantes e desmistificam algumas retóricas do trabalho autônomo. Concluímos que é urgente que as políticas laborais e educativas correspondam a estas realidades atuais do livre exercício das profissões, não só da psicologia.

Influencias del confinamiento por COVID-19 sobre la salud mental en estudiantes de grado de terapia ocupacional / Influências do confinamento COVID-19 na saúde mental de estudantes de graduação em terapia ocupacional / Influences of COVID-19 lockdown on mental health in occupational therapy undergrad students

Resumen Introducción Los años de universidad son un periodo de desarrollo crucial para la transición de la adolescencia a la adultez, por eso existe una creciente preocupación sobre la salud mental de los estudiantes. El COVID-19 puso en situación de vulnerabilidad a esta población, con aumento del riesgo de depresión, ansiedad o estrés. Objetivo Aunque los estudios sobre los efectos de la pandemia y sus consecuencias sobre la salud mental se publican de manera exponencial, existen pocos centrados en estudiantes de ciencias de la salud. Por ello, se enfoca esta temática en estudiantes de Grado en Terapia Ocupacional para explorar los efectos sobre la salud mental en la etapa de confinamiento inicial. Método Partiendo de la hipótesis de que el confinamiento ha podido poner en situación vulnerable a los estudiantes universitarios, se realizó un estudio cuantitativo longitudinal con estudiantes del Grado de Terapia Ocupacional en base a los cuestionarios General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Escala de Felicidad Subjetiva (SHS) y la Escala de Desesperanza de Beck. Resultados Los resultados mostraron una mejoría en las diferentes escalas entre los años 2019 y 2020, con relaciones estadísticamente significativas entre el estado de confinamiento y una reducción del riesgo de depresión a su finalización. Conclusiones Esta relación sugiere dudas sobre la temporalidad y la medición de los resultados siendo posible queque el confinamiento tuviera aspectos positivos en algunas de las dimensiones de la salud mental, dada su relación con la falta de aislamiento social en muchos casos, el establecimiento de rutinas y la reincorporación a la docencia presencial.

Resumo Introdução Os anos universitários são um período de desenvolvimento crucial para a transição da adolescência para a idade adulta, razão pela qual é crescente a preocupação com a saúde mental dos estudantes. A COVID-19 coloca esta população numa situação vulnerável, com risco acrescido de depressão, ansiedade ou stress. Objetivo Embora estudos sobre os efeitos da pandemia e suas consequências na saúde mental sejam publicados de forma exponencial, poucos são os voltados para estudantes de ciências da saúde. Por este motivo, aborda-se esta temática em alunos de graduação em terapia ocupacional para explorar os efeitos na saúde mental em fase inicial de confinamento. Método Partindo da hipótese de que o confinamento tem sido capaz de colocar estudantes universitários em situação de vulnerabilidade, foi realizado um estudo quantitativo longitudinal com estudantes do Curso Graduação em Terapia Ocupacional com base no General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Escala de Felicidade Subjetiva (SHS) e Escala de Desesperança de Beck. Resultados Os resultados mostraram uma melhora nas diferentes escalas entre os anos de 2019 e 2020, com relações estatisticamente significativas entre o estado de confinamento e a redução do risco de depressão ao final. Conclusão Esta relação sugere dúvidas sobre a temporalidade e a mensuração dos resultados, sendo possível que o confinamento tenha tido aspectos positivos em algumas das dimensões da saúde mental, dada sua relação com a falta de isolamento social, em muitos casos, o estabelecimento de rotinas e o retorno ao ensino presencial.

Abstract Introduction The university years are a crucial period of development for the transition from adolescence to adulthood, which is why there is a growing concern for the mental health of students. COVID-19 places this population in a vulnerable situation, with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, or stress. Objective Although studies on the effects of the pandemic and its consequences on mental health are published exponentially, few studies focus on students in health sciences. Therefore, we aimed the approach of these issues regarding undergraduates from the Degree of Occupational Therapy to explore the effects of the national lockdown on mental health. Method Based on the hypothesis that confinement may have made university students vulnerable, a quantitative longitudinal study was conducted with students of the Occupational Therapy Degree based on the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS) and Beck's Scale of Hopelessness (BSH). Results The results showed an improvement in the different scales between 2019 and 2020, with statistically significant relationships between the state of confinement and a reduction in the risk of depression at its end. Conclusions This relationship suggests doubts about the temporality and measurement of the results since it is possible that confinement had positive aspects in some of the dimensions of mental health, given its relationship with the lack of social isolation in many cases, the establishment of routines and the return to face-to-face teaching.

Cuando negocian los rebeldes colombianos: indicadores estratégicos del acuerdo de paz con las FARC

¿Porque grupos como las FARC firmaron un acuerdo de paz, mientras otros grupos como el ELN se niegan a hacerlo? La respuesta a este interrogante está ligada al concepto de punto de inflexión, que es el momento crucial en el que los acontecimientos giran hacia su resultado final. National Security Research Division (RAND) ha determinado indicadores comunes a los puntos de inflexión de ochenta y nueve conflictos contrainsurgentes, con el fin de promover e identificar la llegada de esta fase final del conflicto. Este trabajo presenta una metodología de análisis cualitativo basada en estos indicadores de debilitamiento de la insurgencia, que sugieren los posibles resultados de los conflictos contrainsurgentes. Estos indicadores se relacionan con la dinámica del conflicto colombiano, lo que permite validar determinadas condiciones estratégicas que posibilitaron la salida negociada al conflicto con las FARC (Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia). Las conclusiones incluyen ocho indicadores presentes en el curso del conflicto sin los cuales no hubiese sido posible el acuerdo de paz en el resultado tipo II: Gobierno Gana. El estudio propone criterios de evaluación y gestión del conflicto.

Why did groups like FARC sign a peace agreement while other groups like ELN refuse to do so? The answer to this question is linked to the concept of a tipping point, which is the point at which events take a crucial turn toward their outcome. The National Security Research Division (RAND) determined strategic indicators common to tipping points in 89 counterinsurgency conflicts to promote and identify the arrival of this final phase of the conflict. This work presents a qualitative analysis methodology based on these indicators of insurgency weakening that suggest possible outcomes of counterinsurgency conflicts. These indicators are related to information on the dynamics of the Colombian conflict, which allows validation of certain strategic conditions that enabled the negotiated exit from the conflict with FARC. The conclusions include eight indicators present in the course of the conflict without which the peace agreement would not have been possible in the Type II outcome: Government Wins. The study proposes criteria for conflict evaluation and management.

Por que grupos como as FARC assinaram um acordo de paz, enquanto outros grupos, como o ELN, se recusaram a fazê-lo? A resposta a essa pergunta está ligada ao conceito de ponto de inflexão, que é o momento crucial em que os eventos se voltam para seu resultado final. A National Security Research Division (RAND) identificou indicadores comuns aos pontos de inflexão de 89 conflitos de contrainsurgência para promover e identificar a chegada dessa fase final do conflito. Este documento apresenta uma metodologia de análise qualitativa com base nesses indicadores de enfraquecimento da insurgência, que sugerem os possíveis resultados dos conflitos de contrainsurgência. Esses indicadores estão relacionados à dinâmica do conflito colombiano, o que permite a validação de determinadas condições estratégicas que possibilitaram a solução negociada do conflito com as FARC (Forças Armadas Revolucionárias da Colômbia). As conclusões incluem oito indicadores presentes no curso do conflito, sem os quais o acordo de paz não teria sido possível no resultado do tipo II: vitórias do governo. O estudo propõe critérios para avaliação e gerenciamento de conflitos.