Simulation of the electrical stimulation of the rat brain using sleep frequencies: A finite element modeling approach.

A realistic rat brain model was used to simulate current density and electric field distributions under frequencies characteristic of sleeping states (0.8, 5, and 12 Hz). Two anode-electrode setups were simulated: plate vs. screws-anode, both with a cephalic cathode. Our simulations showed that these frequencies have limited impact on electric field and current density; however, the highest frequency evidenced higher values for both variables. The type of electrode setup had a greater effect on current distribution and induced fields. In that sense, the screws setup resulted in higher values of the modeled variables. The numeric results obtained are within the range of available data for rodent models using the finite elements method. These modeled effects should be analyzed regarding anatomical consequences (depth of penetration of the currents) and purpose of the experiment (i.e., entrainment of brain oscillations) in the context of sleep research.

Putting interactions on the map.

A method called functional connectivity mapping helps model some of the complex interactions between multiple ecosystem services.

Losac and lopap recombinant proteins from Lonomia obliqua bristles positively modulate the myoblast proliferation process

The pursuit of better therapies for disorders creating deficiencies in skeletal muscle regeneration is in progress, and several biotoxins are used in skeletal muscle research. Since recombinant proteins derived from Lonomia obliqua bristles, recombinant Lonomia obliqua Stuart-factor activator (rLosac) and recombinant Lonomia obliqua prothrombin activator protease (rLopap) act as cytoprotective agents and promote cell survival, we hypothesize that both rLosac and rLopap favour the skeletal muscle regeneration process. In the present work, we investigate the ability of these recombinant proteins rLosac and rLopap to modulate the production of key mediators of the myogenic process. The expression of myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs), cell proliferation, the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and the protein expression of cyclooxygenases COX-1 and COX-2 were evaluated in C2C12 mouse myoblasts pre-treated with rLosac and rLopap. We found an increased proliferation of myoblasts, stimulated by both recombinant proteins. Moreover, these proteins modulated PGE2 release and MRFs activities. We also found an increased expression of the EP4 receptor in the proliferative phase of C2C12 cells, suggesting the involvement of this receptor in the effects of PGE2 in these cells. Moreover, the recombinant proteins inhibited the release of IL-6 and PGE2, which is induced by an inflammatory stimulus by IL-1β. This work reveals rLopap and rLosac as promising proteins to modulate processes involving tissue regeneration as occurs during skeletal muscle injury.

Lonomia obliqua envenoming and innovative research / Lonomia obliqua envenenamento e pesquisa Inovadora

As a tribute to Butantan Institute in its 120th anniversary, this review describes some of the scientific research efforts carried out in the study of Lonomia envenoming in Brazil, a country where accidents with caterpillars reach over 42,000 individuals per year (especially in South and Southeast Brazil). Thus, the promising data regarding the studies with Lonomia’s toxins contributed to the creation of new research centers specialized in toxinology based at Butantan Institute, as well as to the production of the antilonomic serum (ALS), actions which are in line with the Butantan Institute mission “to research, develop, manufacture, and provide products and services for the health of the population”. In addition, the study of the components of the Lonomia obliqua bristle extract led to the discovery of new molecules with peculiar properties, opening a field of knowledge that could lead to the development and innovation of new drugs aimed at cell regeneration and inflammatory diseases.

Catalytically active phospholipase A2 myotoxin from Crotalus durissus terrificus induces proliferation and differentiation of myoblasts dependent on prostaglandins produced by both COX-1 and COX-2 pathways

Although crotoxin B (CB) is a well-established catalytically active secretory phospholipase A2 group IIA (sPLA2-IIA) myotoxin, we investigated its potential stimulatory effect on myogenesis with the involvement of prostaglandins (PGs) produced by cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and -2 pathways. Myoblast C2C12 were cultured in proliferation or commitment protocols and incubated with CB followed by lumiracoxib (selective COX-2 inhibitor) or valeryl salicylate (selective COX-1 inhibitor) and subjected to analysis of PG release, cell proliferation and activation of myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs). Our data showed that CB in non-cytotoxic concentrations induces an increase of COX-2 protein expression and stimulates the activity of both COX isoforms to produce PGE2, PGD2 and 15d-PGJ2. CB induced an increase in the proliferation of C2C12 myoblast cells dependent on PGs from both COX-1 and COX-2 pathways. In addition, CB stimulated the activity of Pax7, MyoD, Myf5 and myogenin in proliferated cells. Otherwise, CB increased myogenin activity but not MyoD in committed cells. Our findings evidence the role of COX-1- and COX-2-derived PGs in modulating CB-induced activation of MRFs. This study contributes to the knowledge that CB promote early myogenic events via regulatory mechanisms on PG-dependent COX pathways, showing new concepts about the effect of sPLA2-IIA in skeletal muscle repair.

IL-1β and TNF-α modulation of proliferated and committed myoblasts: IL-6 and COX-2-derived prostaglandins as key actors in the mechanisms involved

In this study, we investigated the effects and mechanisms of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α on the proliferation and commitment phases of myoblast differentiation. C2C12 mouse myoblast cells were cultured to reach a proliferated or committed status and were incubated with these cytokines for the evaluation of cell proliferation, cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) expression, release of prostaglandins (PGs) and myokines, and activation of myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs). We found that inhibition of the IL-6 receptor reduced IL-1β- and TNF-α-induced cell proliferation, and that the IL-1β effect also involved COX-2-derived PGs. Both cytokines modulated the release of the myokines myostatin, irisin, osteonectin, and IL-15. TNF-α and IL-6 reduced the activity of Pax7 in proliferated cells and reduced MyoD and myogenin activity at both proliferative and commitment stages. Otherwise, IL-1β increased myogenin activity only in committed cells. Our data reveal a key role of IL-6 and COX-2-derived PGs in IL-1β and TNF-α-induced myoblast proliferation and support the link between TNF-α and IL-6 and the activation of MRFs. We concluded that IL-1β and TNF-α induce similar effects at the initial stages of muscle regeneration but found critical differences between their effects with the progression of the process, bringing new insights into inflammatory signalling in skeletal muscle regeneration

Role of aspirin-triggered lipoxin A4, aspirin, and salicylic acid in the modulation of the oxidative and inflammatory responses induced by plasma from women with pre-eclampsia

Problem Oxidative stress and inflammation are key events leading to pre-eclampsia, involved in several maternal deaths. Low doses of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) are used in the prevention and treatment of pre-eclampsia. The synthesis of aspirin-triggered lipoxin (ATL) by cyclooxygenase-2 acetylation is an alternative mechanism of ASA, which could explain the effectiveness of ASA treatments. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of ASA, salicylates, and ATL in the modulation of the oxidative and inflammatory responses induced by plasma from women with pre-eclampsia. Method of study Plasma from 14 women with pre-eclampsia and 17 normotensive pregnant women was probed for inducing oxidative and inflammatory responses on endothelial cells and U937 promonocytes. The role of ATL, ASA, and salicylic acid (SA) on these events was evaluated. Results Plasma from women with pre-eclampsia induced TBARS and nitrotyrosine production on endothelial and U937 cells. Pre-treatment with both ATL and ASA decreased the TBARS production, while ATL decreased the nitrotyrosine. Pre-eclamptic plasma augmented the translocation of NF-kB on U937 cells, which decreased by a high dose of ASA and SA. Finally, the pre-eclamptic plasma increased the adhesion of leukocytes—PMN and monocytes—to endothelium, and we were able to determine a state of resolution of inflammation, since ATL decreased the PMN adhesion, and conversely, it increased the monocytes adhesion to endothelium. Conclusion Together, these results suggest that ATL could explain the beneficial actions of ASA and support further research on mechanisms, real efficacy, and rational use of ASA in pre-eclampsia.

Factores Psicosociales e Intervención Psicológica en Enfermedades Crónicas No Transmisibles / Psychosocial Factors and Psychological Intervention in Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases / Fatores Psicossociais e Intervenção Psicológica em Doenças Crônicas Não Transmissíveis

Los cambios que experimentan las personas diagnosticadas con Enfermedades Crónicas no Trasmisibles (ECNT) a nivel individual, familiar o social evidencian la importancia de la intervención psicológica desde el modelo cognoscitivo-conductual. En este artículo se recoge literatura que demuestra la efectividad de este modelo para facilitar ajustes en el estilo de vida, generar mayor adherencia al tratamiento, minimizar los riesgos de recaída y mantener el nivel de calidad de vida del paciente y de quienes lo rodean. Se concluye que es fundamental que la intervención psicológica se brinde con calidad, equidad, oportunidad y pertinencia, lo que reducirá a mediano plazo los costos instrumentales, temporales y profesionales en el manejo de las ECNT.

Changes experienced by people diagnosed with Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), at the individual, familial, or social levels show the importance of psychological interventions based on the cognitive-behavioral model. This article reviews literature showing the effectiveness of this model in facilitating adjustments in lifestyle, generating greater compliance with the treatment, minimizing risks of relapse, and maintaining the patients' and their families' quality of life level. The conclusion is that it is essential for psychological interventions to be carried out with quality, equality, timeliness, and pertinence, in order to reduce the instrumental, temporal, and professional costs of treating NCDs in the medium term.

As mudanças que as pessoas diagnosticadas com Doenças Crônicas não Transmissíveis (DCNT) experimentam no âmbito individual, familiar ou social, evidenciam a importância da intervenção psicológica a partir do modelo cognitivo-comportamental. Neste artigo, faz-se uso de literatura que demonstra a efetividade desse modelo para facilitar ajustes no estilo de vida, gerar maior comprometimento ao tratamento, minimizar riscos de recaída e manter o nível de qualidade de vida do paciente e dos que o rodeiam. Conclui-se que é fundamental que a intervenção psicológica seja oferecida com qualidade, equidade, oportunidade e pertinência, o que reduzirá em médio prazo os custos instrumentais, temporais e profissionais na administração das DCNT.

Programa de intervención cognoscitivo conductual en la calidad de sueño de cuidadores familiares / Cognitive-behavioral intervention program concerning the sleep quality of family caregivers

El objetivo principal del presente estudio fue diseñar un programa de intervención cognoscitivo conductual para mejorar la calidad del sueño de cuidadores familiares de personas con enfermedades crónicas. El programa y un manual de aplicación fue el resultado final del desarrollo tecnológico en este primer estudio. Los psicólogos profesionales, los practicantes del área de la Psicología de la Salud y los profesionales de la salud que trabajen en equipos interdisciplinarios y que estén interesados en velar por la calidad de vida de los cuidadores, podrán hacer uso de estos productos. Está conformado por ocho sesiones, formatos de registro y de tareas para la casa. En la primera y la última sesión se sugiere la aplicación de algunas pruebas (pre y postest); en ellas, se emplean: un formato de entrevista estructurada, el Índice de Calidad de Sueño de Pittsburgh, validado en Colombia por Escobar-Córdoba y Eslava-Schmalbach en el 2005, y la Escala Atenas de Insomnio, versión en español validada en México por Nenclares y Jiménez en el 2005, con el fin de realizar una comparación y contemplar las diferencias existentes entre las condiciones de entrada de los pacientes en los diferentes aspectos evaluados y lo que se observa después de aplicado el programa. A partir de la segunda sesión, se plantea el manejo de información sobre el papel del cuidador; el sueño y el compromiso que debe adquirirse para mejorar la calidad del sueño; el entrenamiento en higiene del sueño en técnicas de relajación; la realización de un plan estratégico del descanso y la utilización de reestructuración cognoscitiva. Finalmente el programa propone una etapa de seguimiento, que se plantea en tres momentos, el primero al mes de manera presencial, el segundo a los seis meses y, el tercero al año, por medio de una llamada telefónica. El seguimiento permitirá conocer el mantenimiento de los resultados después de concluido el programa. En el texto del estudio realizado por Orozco, Eustache y Grosso en el 2011, se presenta el programa y Manual completos.

The purpose of this study was to design a cognitivebehavioral\r\nintervention program addressed to improve\r\nthe sleep quality of chronic diseases patient's family\r\ncaregivers. The program represents the final proposal\r\nof technological development, with the intervention\r\napplication manual designed for professional psychologists\r\nand practitioners in the area of Health Psychology.\r\nThe program comprises eight sessions, registration\r\nforms and homework; in the first and last session the\r\napplication of a pre-test and post-test is suggested and\r\nconducted using: a structured interview format, the\r\nPittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Colombian Version -\r\nvalidated by Escobar-Córdoba and Eslava-Schmalbach,\r\n2005 and Athens Insomnia Scale, Spanish Version -\r\nvalidated in Mexico by Nenclares and Jimenez, 2005,\r\nto make comparisons and appreciate the differences\r\nbetween the conditions of entry of patients evaluated\r\nin the different aspects and what is observed after\r\napplication of the program. Commencing with the\r\nsecond session the information processed is about the\r\nrole of the caregiver, the sleep and commitment of\r\nthe caregiver with the need to improve their quality\r\nof sleep; a training is implemented in terms of sleep\r\nhygiene, relaxation techniques, a strategic plan in the\r\nbenefit of rest and cognitive restructuring. At the end\r\na three time follow-up phase at one month (in person),\r\nsix and twelve months by a telephone call. In the\r\noriginal study by Orozco, Esutache y Grosso (2011)\r\nthe complete program and Manualsare available.

Pensar la psicología hoy / Thinking psychology today

Se presenta el texto de instalación del V Congreso Javeriano de Psicología “Pensar el presente: Psicología, Crítica y Tiempos de Globalización”, evento realizado en abril del 2008 en la ciudad de Bogotá. En la reflexión que se hace se invita a mirar la psicología en el presente y a interrogarse sobre las formas de vida que nos constituyen y que atraviesan las subjetividades en el mundo contemporáneo, en el marco de las condiciones económicas, culturales, sociales y políticas de nuestros países. También se invita a profundizar en las condiciones de emergencia de un sujeto que asuma el proyecto indefinido de la libertad.

The inauguration text of the V Congress of Psychology at the Javeriana University, “Thinking the Present: Psychology, Criticism, and Globalization Times”, is presented. This event took place in April, 2008, in Bogotá,Colombia. These thoughts invite to see Psychology in the present, and to ask oneself about the forms of life that we are built of and that go through subjectivities in today’s World, within the framework of the Economical,Cultural, Social and Political conditions of our countries, and they also invite to go in depth into the conditions of creation of a Subject that assumes the undefined project of freedom.

Los grupos juveniles universitarios y la formación ciudadana / University Student Groups and Citizen Education

El artículo presenta algunos avances del proyecto de investigación sobre Prácticas Juveniles como Expresiones Ciudadanas. A partir del análisis de tres grupos estudiantiles universitarios de la ciudad de Bogotá, los cuales forman parte de los 20 colectivos juveniles que se están estudiando con un método mixto que combina estrategias de aproximación etnográfica con el análisis narrativo y discursivo, se describen la trayectoria y las prácticas de estos grupos y se muestra de qué manera en ellos los jóvenes viven experiencias que les facilitan el desarrollo de diversas expresiones y competencias ciudadanas. El artículo concluye que el apoyo y el agenciamiento de estos grupos en las universidades constituyen un camino para impulsar la formación ciudadana, en torno al cual se formulan algunas recomendaciones.

The article presents some advances of the research project on Practices of the Youth as Citizen Expressions. From the analysis of three university student groups taken from the 20 groups of youths that participate in this mixed method combining ethnographic strategies with narrative and discursive analysis, the article describes the trajectory and the practices of these groups and shows how the students live experiences that ease the development of different citizen expressions and abilities. The conclusions state that the creation, support and agency of these groups in the universities represent a way to encourage the formation of citizens, and some suggestions are presented related to this topic.

La formación de psicólogas y psicólogos en Colombia / The formation of psychologists in Colombia

El contexto colombiano muestra duras realidades a nivel social, educativo y económico que se han convertido en temas predilectos de estudio en las universidades. Se presentan en este texto reflexiones sobre la formación de los psicólogos y las psicólogas en Colombia y la forma como se articula esta formación con las demandas del contexto colombiano. En esta reflexión se rescatan las posturas de autores como De Sousa Santos (2005) para sugerir que la formación de psicólogos y psicólogas debe tener en cuenta aspectos como el mantenimiento de la educación como un bien público, la defensa de la autonomía científica y pedagógica, y la construcción de un conocimiento pluriuniversitario. Con ese fin se sugiere la promoción de ciertas capacidades y conceptos en los estudiantes, tales como la instalación de la pregunta, el conocimiento histórico y geográficamente situado, la capacidad de moverse en contextos diferentes y la capacidad compasiva.

The Colombian context shows harsh social, educational, and economical realities which have become favorite topics of study at the Universities. This text presents reflections on the formation of psychologists in Colombia and the way this formation becomes articulated with the demands made by the Colombian context. In this reflection, standpoints such as De Sousa Santos’ (2005) are brought to the table, in order to suggest that the formation of Psychologists should take into account aspects such as keeping education as a public good, defending scientific and pedagogical autonomy, and building pluriuniversitary knowledge. In order to be able to attain those goals, it is suggested that certain student skills and concepts be fostered, such as the installation of the question, knowledge that is historical and geografically-linked, the ability to move in different contexts and the compassionate ability.

Influencia del rofecoxib en los niveles de pg-e2 e il-1B; el movimiento dentario y el dolor durante la retracción de caninos / Influence of Rofecoxib on pg-e2 and Il-1â on tooth movement and pain during canine retraction

El propósito de este estudio fue comparar la cantidad de movimiento dentario, el dolor y los niveles de Interleuquina 1B y prostaglandina E2 en el fluido crevicular durante la retracción de caninos superiores en pacientes con y sin ingesta de un AINE específico para la COX-2 (Rofecoxib). Se evaluaron diez pacientes mayores de 18 años, divididos en dos grupos, un grupo experimental de cinco pacientes, quienes dos días antes de iniciar la activación del sistema de retracción, tomaron Rofecoxib y un grupo control, de cinco pacientes que en el mismo periodo tomaron un placebo. En total se realizaron tres activaciones y tres tomas del medicamento, cada mes durante tres meses. Se tomaron muestra de fluido crevicular a nivel de los caninos superiores, dos días después de ingerido el medicamento y antes de activar el sistema, a la primera, las 24 y 48 horas después de la activación. El movimiento dentario se midió en modelos dentales a los tres meses de iniciada la retracción y el dolor fue evaluado por medio de una escala análoga de dolor. Los niveles de IL-1B y PgE2 no mostraron diferencias significativas entre el grupo control y el experimental en ninguno de los tiempos de medición y tampoco al comparar ambos grupos. El movimiento dentario promedio y el nivel del dolor en el grupo experimental fue menor que el control, sin embargo esta diferencia no fue estadísticamente significativa (p>0.05). Se concluyó que el Rofecoxib no tuvo influencia en el movimiento dentario, el dolor ni en los niveles de IL-1B y PgE2 en los pacientes que participaron en este estudio...