Preliminary Investigation of Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis: LC-MS/MS Chemical Profiling, In Vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory Properties, Cytotoxicity, and In Silico Analysis against COX-2.

The search results offer comprehensive insights into the phenolic compounds, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic effects, LC-MS/MS analysis, molecular docking, and MD simulation of the identified phenolic compounds in the Astragalus arpilobus subsp. hauarensis extract (AAH). The analysis revealed substantial levels of total phenolic content (TPC), with a measured value of 191 ± 0.03 mg GAE/g DM. This high TPC was primarily attributed to two key phenolic compounds: total flavonoid content (TFC) and total tannin content (TTC), quantified at 80.82 ± 0.02 mg QE/g DM and 51.91 ± 0.01 mg CE/g DM, respectively. LC-MS/MS analysis identified 28 phenolic compounds, with gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, catechin, and others. In the DPPH scavenging assay, the IC50 value for the extract was determined to be 19.44 ± 0.04 µg/mL, comparable to standard antioxidants like BHA, BHT, ascorbic acid, and α-tocopherol. Regarding anti-inflammatory activity, the extract demonstrated a notably lower IC50 value compared to both diclofenac and ketoprofen, with values of 35.73 µg/mL, 63.78 µg/mL, and 164.79 µg/mL, respectively. Cytotoxicity analysis revealed significant cytotoxicity of the A. arpilobus extract, with an LC50 value of 28.84 µg/mL, which exceeded that of potassium dichromate (15.73 µg/mL), indicating its potential as a safer alternative for various applications. Molecular docking studies have highlighted chrysin as a promising COX-2 inhibitor, with favorable binding energies and interactions. Molecular dynamic simulations further support chrysin's potential, showing stable interactions with COX-2, comparable to the reference ligand S58. Overall, the study underscores the pharmacological potential of A. arpilobus extract, particularly chrysin, as a source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Further research is warranted to elucidate the therapeutic mechanisms and clinical implications of these natural compounds.

Feeding Dairy Goats Dehydrated Orange Pulp Improves Cheese Antioxidant Content.

Agroindustrial by-products constitute an alternative source of feed livestock, and their use contributes to the sustainability of livestock systems and the circular bioeconomy. The effects of replacing cereal (0%, 40%, and 80%) with dehydrated orange pulp (DOP) in the diet of goats on the antioxidant and fatty acid (FA) contents of cheeses were evaluated. For a more suitable understanding of the role of coagulant enzymes in establishing the properties of the cheese, the effect of milk-clotting with animal and vegetable rennet was also analysed. The rennet did not substantially affect the FA or the antioxidant compounds, and the use of DOP did not affect the FA contents. However, the α-tocopherol levels, total phenolic compounds (TPC), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in cheeses increased as the percentage of DOP replacing cereals increased. Moreover, the high correlation obtained between the TAC and the TPC (r = 0.73) and α-tocopherol (r = 0.62) contents indicated the important role played by these compounds in improving the antioxidant capacity of the cheese. In conclusion, DOP is a suitable alternative to cereals in the diet of goats and improves the antioxidant status of the cheese produced.

Anti-Cholinergic Effects of the Phenolic Extract from the Astragalus crenatus Plant: A Computational and Network Pharmacology Study.

Investigations into cholinesterase inhibition have received attention from researchers in recent years for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Cholinesterase enzymes, namely, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), hold pivotal significance in Alzheimer's disease (AD) treatment. In this study, we utilized the ethanolic extract of Astragalus crenatus followed by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS) to separate and identify at least 21 compounds in the extract. Rosmarinic acid exhibited the highest concentration (96.675 ± 1.3 mg/g extract), succeeded by hesperidin (79.613 ± 1.2 mg/g extract), hesperetin (75.102 ± 1.4 mg/g extract), rutin (68.156 ± 1.6 mg/g extract), chlorogenic acid (67.645 ± 1.5 mg/g extract), fisetin (66.647 ± 2.3 mg/g extract), and hyperoside (63.173 ± 1.5 mg/g extract). A. crenatus extract efficiently inhibited both AChE and BChE activities in a dosage-dependent manner. Molecular docking was employed to scrutinize the anticholinesterase mechanisms of the identified phytocompounds. Notably, a network pharmacology analysis was executed for the most efficacious compound. Based on binding energies, hesperidin emerged as the most potent inhibitor against both AChE and BChE, exhibiting scores of -10.5 Kcal/mol and -9.8 Kcal/mol, respectively. Due to its dual inhibition of AChE and BChE activities, hesperidin from Astragalus crenatus holds promise for the development of novel therapeutics aimed at neurological disorders, particularly AD.

LC/MS-MS Analysis of Phenolic Compounds in Hyoscyamus albus L. Extract: In Vitro Antidiabetic Activity, In Silico Molecular Docking, and In Vivo Investigation against STZ-Induced Diabetic Mice.

This study aimed to investigate the chemical composition and antidiabetic properties of cultivated Hyoscyamus albus L. The ethanol extract was analyzed using LC-MS/MS, and 18 distinct phenolic compounds were identified. Among these, p-coumaric acid (6656.8 ± 3.4 µg/g), gallic acid (6516 ± 1.7 µg/g), luteolin (6251.9 ± 1.3 µg/g), apigenin (6209.9 ± 1.1 µg/g), and rutin (5213.9 ± 1.3 µg/g) were identified as the most abundant polyphenolic molecules. In the in vitro antidiabetic experiment, the ability of the plant extract to inhibit α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities was examined. The results indicated that the extract from H. albus L. exhibited a higher inhibitory effect on α-amylase compared to α-glucosidase, with an IC50 of 146.63 ± 1.1 µg/mL and 270.43 ± 1.1 µg/mL, respectively. Docking simulations revealed that luteolin, fisetin, and rutin exhibited the most promising inhibitory activity against both enzymes, as indicated by their high contrasting inhibition scores. To further investigate the in vivo antidiabetic effects of H. albus L., an experiment was conducted using STZ-induced diabetic mice. The results demonstrated that the plant extract effectively reduced the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. These findings suggest that H. albus L. may have therapeutic potential for managing hyperlipidemia, a common complication associated with diabetes. This highlights its potential as a natural remedy for diabetes and related conditions.

Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction, LC-MS/MS Analysis, Anticholinesterase, and Antioxidant Activities of Valuable Natural Metabolites from Astragalus armatus Willd.: In Silico Molecular Docking and In Vitro Enzymatic Studies.

The Astragalus armatus Willd. plant's phenolic constituent extraction and identification were optimized using the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method and the LC-MS/MS analysis, respectively. Additionally, cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), beta carotene, reducing power, DMSO alcalin, silver nanoparticle (SNP)-based method, phenanthroline, and hydroxyl radical tests were utilized to assess the extract's antioxidant capacity, while the neuroprotective effect was examined in vitro against acetylcholinesterase enzyme. This study accurately estimated the chemical bonding between the identified phenolic molecules derived from LC-MS/MS and the AChE. The extract was found to contain sixteen phenolic substances, and rosmarinic, protocatechuic, and chlorogenic acids, as well as 4-hydroxybenzoic, hyperoside, and hesperidin, were the most abundant substances in the extract. In all antioxidant experiments, the plant extract demonstrated strong antioxidant activity and a significant inhibitory impact against AChE (40.25 ± 1.41 µg/mL). According to molecular docking affinity to the enzyme AChE, the top-five molecules were found to be luteolin, quercetin, naringenin, rosmarinic acid, and kaempferol. Furthermore, these tested polyphenols satisfy the essential requirements for drug-like characteristics and Lipinski's rule of five. These results highlight the significance of the A. armatus plant in cosmetics, as food additives, and in the pharmaceutical industry due to its rosmarinic and chlorogenic acid content.

Technology and Quality of Life of Older People in Times of COVID: A Qualitative Study on Their Changed Digital Profile.

The situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic brought negative consequences such as social isolation, limited access to routine health and social care services, and lack of self-esteem, especially for older people. In this context, technology took on an important role as the main means of communication and service delivery. The main objective of this study is to analyze the situation of the elderly and their access to technological resources in the time of COVID-19. Based on a qualitative methodology, 58 semi-structured interviews were conducted with people between 65 and 90 years old in Portugal. The results reveal specific difficulties in the use of this type of digital devices and a change in the digital use profile of this age group, characterized by more frequent use of digital devices such as smartphones, the incorporation of certain services such as video calls, and uses associated with communication and entertainment. This study shows that attitudes toward technology among the elderly should be studied further, and these results should be considered to develop and implement training programs specially designed for this age group in order to contribute to their well-being and quality of life.

[Systematic review of digital technology acceptance in older adults. Perspective of TAM models]. / Revisión sistemática de aceptación de la tecnología digital en personas mayores. Perspectiva de los modelos TAM.

In this study, a systematic review of researches published about the determining factors in the intention of the use of devices and digital technology in older adults has been carried out. The technology acceptance model is the framework used. The main result of the analysis of 60 scientific articles published between 2010 and 2020 has been summarized after a bibliographic research and a subsequent selection process in the most important bibliographic databases: Web of Science (n=45), Scopus (n=66) and Google Scholar (n=224). It has been proved the predominance of quantitative studies with a prevalence of study factors that associate the intention to use technology with: Facilitating conditions, experience, health, social support, emotions, perceived enjoyment, perceived satisfaction in using technology, anxiety, perceived risk, motivation, cost, subjective norm and social influence. The results of the systematic review allow us to conclude the urgent need to incorporate new research on the identification and influence of these factors that stand between older adults and technology, as possible barriers or facilitators of use.

Revisión sistemática de aceptación de la tecnología digital en personas mayores. Perspectiva de los modelos TAM / Systematic review of digital technology acceptance in older adults. Perspective of TAM models

En el presente estudio se realiza una revisión sistemática de investigaciones publicadas sobre los factores determinantes en la intención de uso de dispositivos y tecnología digital en las personas mayores desde el enfoque de los modelos de aceptación tecnológica. Tras una búsqueda bibliográfica y un posterior proceso de selección en las principales bases de datos bibliográficas Web of Science (n=45), Scopus (n=66) y Google Scholar (n=224), se resumen los principales resultados de 60 artículos científicos publicados entre 2010 y 2020. Se comprueba el predominio de estudios cuantitativos con una prevalencia de factores de estudio que asocian la intención de uso tecnológico con: condiciones facilitadoras, experiencia, salud percibida, apoyo social, emociones, disfrute y satisfacción percibida al utilizar tecnología, ansiedad, riesgo percibido, motivación, coste, norma subjetiva e influencia social. Los resultados de la revisión sistemática permiten concluir la necesidad de valorar la identificación e influencia en la adaptación funcional de estos factores que se interponen entre los mayores y la tecnología, como posibles barreras o facilitadores de uso. (AU)

In this study, a systematic review of researches published about the determining factors in the intention of the use of devices and digital technology in older adults has been carried out. The technology acceptance model is the framework used. The main result of the analysis of 60 scientific articles published between 2010 and 2020 has been summarized after a bibliographic research and a subsequent selection process in the most important bibliographic databases: Web of Science (n=45), Scopus (n=66) and Google Scholar (n=224). It has been proved the predominance of quantitative studies with a prevalence of study factors that associate the intention to use technology with: Facilitating conditions, experience, health, social support, emotions, perceived enjoyment, perceived satisfaction in using technology, anxiety, perceived risk, motivation, cost, subjective norm and social influence. The results of the systematic review allow us to conclude the urgent need to incorporate new research on the identification and influence of these factors that stand between older adults and technology, as possible barriers or facilitators of use. (AU)

Factors Influencing Intention to Technological Use in Older Adults. The TAM Model Aplication.

The use of digital technology by older adults has improved in recent years in response to the need for their functional adaptation to an increasingly technological social context. Understanding this type of technological adaptation has recently become an important field of inquiry in both social and gerontological studies. Working within this framework, the aim of this study is to identify the main determinants that influence the intention of older people to use digital technology in their daily lives, using the Technological Acceptance Model. A study was carried out with the participation of 1155 people over 65 years of age in Spain. Confirmatory Factor Analysis and structural equation models (SEM) were performed. The results show that the TAM is a useful model to explain the intention of older adults to use Digital Technology, showing a high predictive power, highlighting Perceived Usefulness and Perceived Ease of Use as the main predictor variables.

Investigation of Photoprotective, Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant Capacities and LC-ESI-MS Phenolic Profile of Astragalus gombiformis Pomel.

Plant-derived compounds have recently been gaining popularity as skincare factors due to their ability to absorb ultraviolet radiations and their anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. In this light, this work aimed to evaluate in vitro the pharmacological activities of the butanolic extract prepared from the aerial parts of Astragalus gombiformis Pomel, an endemic species to southern Algeria. The sun protection factor was used to assess the photoprotective effect (SPF), the protein denaturation method to determine the anti-inflammatory activity, and brine shrimp nauplii and OxHLIA assay, respectively, to assess the cytotoxicity and antioxidant capacity of A. gombiformis. In addition, LC-ESI-MS analysis was employed for the characterization of the phenolic constituents of A. gombiformis. The results showed that A. gombiformis had high capacity for absorbing UV radiations with an SPF of 37.78 ± 0.85 and significant anti-inflammatory activity with a percentage inhibition of 75.38% which is close to that of diclofenac and ketoprofen. In addition, A. gombiformis was found to have effective cytotoxicity against Artemia nauplii with a DC50 value of about 44.7 µg/mL, but a weak hemolytic effect against human erythrocytes. LC-ESI-MS results detected the presence of 17 phenolic compounds with a predominance of cirsiliol, silymarin, quercitrin (quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside), and kaempferol. Taken together, these results suggest that A. gombiformis extract could be used as a skincare agent in cosmetic formulations, providing excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection, allowing the treatment of skin conditions, as well as a pharmaceutical agent with multidimensional applications.

Inoculation with rumen fluid in early life accelerates the rumen microbial development and favours the weaning process in goats.

BACKGROUND: Newborn ruminants possess an underdeveloped rumen which is colonized by microorganisms acquired from adult animals and the surrounding environment. This microbial transfer can be limited in dairy systems in which newborns are separated from their dams at birth. This study explores whether the direct inoculation of fresh or autoclaved rumen fluid from adult goats to newborn kids has a beneficial effect on rumen microbial development and function. RESULTS: Repetitive inoculation of young kids with fresh rumen fluid from adult goats adapted to forage (RFF) or concentrate diets (RFC) accelerated microbial colonization of the rumen during the pre-weaning period leading to high protozoal numbers, a greater diversity of bacterial (+ 234 OTUs), methanogens (+ 6 OTUs) and protozoal communities (+ 25 OTUs) than observed in control kids (CTL) without inoculation. This inoculation also increased the size of the core bacterial and methanogens community and the abundance of key rumen bacteria (Ruminococcaceae, Fibrobacteres, Veillonellaceae, Rikenellaceae, Tenericutes), methanogens (Methanobrevibacter ruminantium, Methanomicrobium mobile and Group 9), anaerobic fungi (Piromyces and Orpinomyces) and protozoal taxa (Enoploplastron, Diplodinium, Polyplastron, Ophryoscolex, Isotricha and Dasytricha) before weaning whereas CTL kids remained protozoa-free through the study. Most of these taxa were positively correlated with indicators of the rumen microbiological and physiological development (higher forage and concentrate intakes and animal growth during the post-weaning period) favoring the weaning process in RFF and RFC kids in comparison to CTL kids. Some of these microbiological differences tended to decrease during the post-weaning period, although RFF and RFC kids retained a more complex and matured rumen microbial ecosystem than CTL kids. Inoculation with autoclaved rumen fluid promoted lower development of the bacterial and protozoal communities during the pre-weaning period than using fresh inocula, but it favored a more rapid microbial development during the post-weaning than observed for CTL kids. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that inoculation of young ruminants with fresh rumen fluid from adult animals accelerated the rumen microbial colonization which was associated with an earlier rumen functional development. This strategy facilitated a smoother transition from milk to solid feed favoring the animal performance during post-weaning and minimizing stress.

Living Senior Labs, ecosistemas de co-creación e innovación abierta con personas mayores: revisión sistemática de la literatura en Ciencias Sociales / Living Senior Labs, co-criação e ecossistemas de inovação aberta com idosos: revisão sistemática da literatura em Ciências Sociais / Living Senior Labs, ecosystems of co-creation and open innovation with older people: a systematic review on Social Science literature

Los Living Labs son experiencias colaborativas que buscan implicar a la ciudadanía en la gobernanza científica y la evaluación de tecnologías. A pesar de su interés, se sabe muy poco sobre estas comunidades, su funcionamiento, tipología y características. Por ello, se realizó una revisión sistemática de la literatura sobre de un tipo particular de Living Lab, orientado hacia las personas mayores: los Living Senior Labs. A partir de una búsqueda general en las principales bases de datos científicas (WOS y Scopus), y de la aplicación de criterios de inclusión preestablecidos tras la primera selección quedaron finalmente seleccionados 19 estudios sobre Senior Labs (2010 y 2021). Los resultados proporcionan un mejor conocimiento de este tipo de ecosistemas y crean una base firme para avanzar en el conocimiento de este campo. (AU)

Os Living Labs são experiências colaborativas que procuram envolver os cidadãos na governança científica e na avaliação tecnológica. Apesar de seu interesse, muito pouco se sabe sobre essas comunidades, seu funcionamento, tipologia e características. Portanto, foi realizada uma revisão sistemática da literatura sobre um tipo particular de Living Lab, orientado para os idosos: os Living Senior Labs. Com base em uma pesquisa geral nos principais bancos de dados científicos (WOS e Scopus) e na aplicação de critérios de inclusão pré-estabelecidos, foram selecionados 19 estudos sobre os Senior Labs (2010 a 2021). Os resultados proporcionam uma melhor compreensão deste tipo de ecossistema e criam uma base firme para o avanço do conhecimento neste campo. (AU)

Living Labs are collaborative experiences that seek to involve citizens in scientific governance and technology assessment. In spite of their interest, very little is known about these communities, their functioning, typology and characteristics. Thus, a systematic literature review was carried out about a particular type of Living Lab, oriented towards the elderly: Living Senior Labs. Based on a general search in the main scientific databases (WOS and Scopus), and the application of pre-established inclusion criteria, 19 studies about Senior Labs were selected (2010 to 2021). The results provide a more comprehensive understanding of this type of ecosystem and create a strong foundation for progress in the knowledge of this area. (AU)

Teoria da atividade: fundamento para estudo e desenho do blended learning / Théorie de lactivité: fondement de létude et de la conception du blended learning / Teoría de la actividad: fundamento para estudio y diseño del blended learning / Activity theory: fundamentals for study and design of blended learning

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo é explorar a teoria da atividade como um referencial teórico interdisciplinar adequado, situando os elementos sociais, pedagógicos e tecnológicos do blended learning no ensino superior, considerando a adoção e a efetividade do blended learning, que constitui a nova normalidade no atual contexto de presença e uso intensivo de tecnologias digitais na educação. Conclui-se a validade internacional da teoria da atividade e sua permanente transformação e evolução histórica, desde suas origens até os dias atuais, oferecendo transcender o caráter individual em direção a um caráter coletivo, representando adequadamente os elementos sociais, tecnológicos e histórico-culturais presentes em toda atividade formativa.

Résumé L'objectif de cette étude est d'explorer la théorie de l'activité comme cadre théorique interdisciplinaire approprié, tout en situant les éléments sociaux, pédagogiques et technologiques du blended learning dans l'enseignement supérieur et tenant compte que l'adoption du blended learning et son efficacité constituent la nouvelle normalité dans le contexte actuel d'usage intensif des technologies numériques dans l'éducation. La conclusion est que la validité internationale de la théorie de l'activité, avec sa transformation permanente et son évolution historique, depuis ses origines jusqu'à nos jours, nous permet de transcender son caractère individuel vers un caractère collectif et représenter adéquatement les éléments sociaux, technologiques et historico-culturels présents dans toute activité de formation.

Resumen El propósito es explorar la teoría de la actividad como referente teórico interdisciplinar adecuado, donde se sitúan los elementos sociales, pedagógicos y tecnológicos del blended learning en la educación superior, considerando que la adopción y efectividad del blended learning lo han constituido en el nuevo normal, en el actual contexto de presencia y uso intensivos de tecnologías digitales en educación. Se concluye en la validez internacional de la teoría de la actividad y su permanente transformación y evolución histórica desde sus orígenes hasta la época actual, ofrece transcender el carácter individual hacia un carácter colectivo, representando adecuadamente los elementos sociales, tecnológicos e histórico-culturales presentes en toda actividad formativa.

Abstract The objective is to explore activity theory as a suitable interdisciplinary theoretical framework, where to place the social, pedagogical and technological elements of blended learning in higher education and considering the adoption and effectiveness of blended learning, constituting the new normality, in the current context of presence and intensive use of digital technologies in education. It concludes on the international validity of the theory of activity and its permanent transformation and historical evolution from its origins to the present day, it allows to transcend the individual character towards a collective character, adequately representing the social, technological and historical-cultural elements present throughout the formative activity.

Seasonal variations of heavy metals content in mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from Cala Iris offshore (Northern Morocco).

Heavy metal concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Zn, Co, and Pb were investigated in soft tissues of Mytilus galloprovincialis coming from an aquaculture farm in Cala Iris sea of AlHoceima. Mytilus galloprovincialis were collected monthly during the period January to December 2016. The seasonal variations were affected significantly the concentrations of metals (Cd, Fe and Cr) in M. galloprovincialis. The highest heavy metal concentrations were recorded in winter (0.89 mg/kg, 673.2 and 3.330 mg/kg; for Cd, Fe and Cr, respectively) and the lowest values were founded in summer for Cd (0.646 mg/kg), and in autumn for Fe (340.1 mg/kg) and Cr (1.959 mg/kg). A significant effect of seasons on metal concentrations can be attributed to a number of biological and environmental inter-related factors. Data from this study may provide information on the use of M. galloprovincialis as a bioindicator for heavy metals pollution in the Cala Iris Sea.

Analysis of the Rumen Microbiome and Metabolome to Study the Effect of an Antimethanogenic Treatment Applied in Early Life of Kid Goats.

This work aimed to gain insight into the transition from milk to solid feeding at weaning combining genomics and metabolomics on rumen contents from goat kids treated with a methanogenic inhibitor (bromochloromethane, BCM). Sixteen goats giving birth to two kids were used. Eight does were treated (D+) with BCM after giving birth and over 2 months. One kid per doe in both groups was treated with BCM (k+) for 3 months while the other was untreated (k-). Rumen samples were collected from kids at weaning (W) and 1 (W + 1) and 4 (W + 4) months after and from does at weaning and subjected to 16S pyrosequencing and metabolomics analyses combining GC/LC-MS. Results from pyrosequencing showed a clear effect of age of kids, with more diverse bacterial community as solid feed becomes more important after weaning. A number of specific OTUs were significantly different as a result of BCM treatment of the kid at W while at W + 1 and W + 4 less OTUs were significantly changed. At W + 1, Prevotella was increased and Butyrivibrio decreased in BCM treated kids. At W + 4 only the effect of treating mothers resulted in significant changes in the abundance of some OTUs: Ruminococcus, Butyrivibrio and Prevotella. The analysis of the OTUs shared by different treatments revealed that kids at weaning had the largest number of unique OTUs compared with kids at W + 1 (137), W + 4 (238), and does (D) (23). D + k+ kids consistently shared more OTUs with mothers than the other three groups at the three sampling times. The metalobomic study identified 473 different metabolites. In does, lipid super pathway included the highest number of metabolites that were modified by BCM, while in kids all super-pathways were evenly affected. The metabolomic profile of samples from kids at W was different in composition as compared to W + 1 and W + 4, which may be directly ascribed to the process of rumen maturation and changes in the solid diet. This study shows the complexity of the bacterial community and metabolome in the rumen before weaning, which clearly differ from that after weaning and highlight the importance of the dam in transmitting the primary bacterial community after birth.

Modelo predictivo de la intención de adopción de Blended learning en profesores universitarios / Predictive Model of the Intention to Adopt Blended Learning in a University Setting

El objetivo de este estudio es analizar la intención de uso de la modalidad instructiva blended learning por parte de profesores universitarios, a partir del diseño de un modelo predictivo, tomando como aportes teóricos la Teoría del Comportamiento Planificado (Theory of Planned Behavior), los modelos de aceptación tecnológica (TAM) y la Teoría de la Difusión de Innovaciones (Innovation Diffussion Theory). El modelo teórico planteado está constituido por seis constructos: Utilidad Percibida, Facilidad percibida de Uso, Compatibilidad, Imagen Social, Norma o Influencia Social e Intención de Uso. En el estudio participaron 486 profesores de diferentes universidades españolas. Para el tratamiento de los datos se realizaron Análisis Factorial Confirmatorio (AFC) y análisis causal, conforme al enfoque de ecuaciones estructurales (SEM) con estimación de parámetros, utilizando el método de Máxima Verosimilitud (ML) para el contraste de las relaciones estructurales propuestas. Los resultados revelan que los factores del modelo explican el 41% de la variabilidad de la intención de uso de blended learning en los profesores. Esta intención de adoptar b-learning está positivamente afectada por dos determinantes principales, de un lado, la utilidad percibida sobre la mejora de la práctica docente (valor estandarizado = 0.54, p < 0.001) y la existencia de condiciones favorables (recursos y equipamientos técnicos, humanos, etc.) de la propia universidad para su implementación (β = 0.26, p < 0.001).

The objective of this study is to analyze the intention of the use of the instructional modality blended learning to be used by academics as a predictive model using theoretical contributions from the Theory of Planned Behavior (Theory of Planned Behavior), models of acceptance technology (TAM) and the theory of diffusion of innovation (Innovation diffusion Theory). The theoretical model proposed consists of six constructs: Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, Compatibility Social Image, Social Influence and Intended Use. The study included 486 teachers from different Spanish universities. The data was analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Causal analysis was also utilized, conforming to structural equation approach (SEM), with parameter estimations using the maximum likelihood method (ML) for the contrast of the proposed structural relationships. The results reveal that the model factors explained 41% of the variability of the intended use of blended learning. The intention to adopt b-learning is positively affected by two main determinants, on one side the perceived usefulness of improving teaching practice (standardized value = 0.54, p <0.001) and on the other the existence of favorable conditions (resources and technical equipment, human, etc.) of the university for its implementation (β = 0.26, p < 0.001).

A comparison of different legume seeds as protein supplement to optimise the use of low quality forages by ruminants.

The potential of different legume seeds species, including recently new developed varieties (Vicia faba: a commercial variety and varieties Alameda, Palacio and Baraka; Lupinus angustifolius; Pisum sativum and Cicer arietinum: varieties Fardon and Zegri) as protein supplements to low quality forages was evaluated. First, the chemical composition, in vitro digestibility, in situ degradability and in vitro/in situ intestinal digestibility of legume seeds were determined. The chemical composition was rather similar within genus. Vicia faba beans contained more condensed tannins (35.8-56.4 g/kg DM) and less ether extract (12.8-9.5 g/kg DM) than the other legumes. The rumen degradability and intestinal digestibility of the undegraded protein in the rumen was very similar among the seeds, with exception of lupins, having a much higher degradation rate than the rest. Second, the fermentation characteristics of diets, which were based on two low quality forages (olive leaves and barley straw) and feed blocks without or with supplementation of legume seeds or soybean meal, were investigated by using single-flow continuous culture fermenters. In this trial, the fermentation parameters (ammonia, pH and volatile fatty acids), the microbial protein synthesis and the degradation of olive leaves and barley straw promoted by the different diets were studied. Compared to soybean meal, beans and peas showed similar suitability as protein supplements for sustaining in vitro fermentation of low-quality forages. However, our results suggest a significant interaction between the type of legume used as supplement and the type of forage used, which need to be further studied in vivo.

El Registro Nacional de Cáncer de Cuba: procedimientos y resultados / The National Cancer Registry of Cuba: process and result

El cáncer representa un problema de salud en Cuba debido a que desde 1958 constituye la segunda causa de muerte en nuestro país. El Registro Nacional de Cáncer fue creado en 1964 como un instrumento para el estudio estadístico epidemiológico de esta enfermedad. A partir de 1986 se han introducido cambios importantes en el Registro Nacional de Cáncer desde el punto de vista de la organización, procesamiento y validación de la información con la implementación del nuevo sistema de información automatizada, lográndose em 1990 el desarrollo de una versión en microcomputadora y en 1992 la descentralización del procesamiento de la información a todas las provincias del país (14 Registros Provinciales de Cáncer). Las estadísticas obtenidas a través del Registro muestran como principales localizaciones en incidencia: pulmón, piel y colon en ambos sexos; próstata y laringe en los hombres y mama y cuello de útero en las mujeres. En la mortalidad pulmón y colon en ambos sexos, próstata en los hombres y mama en las mujeres. La mejoría de la calidad de la información del Registro ha permitido usar los datos para realizar investigaciones que ayuden a planificar y controlar la marcha del Programa Nacional de Control del Cáncer(AU)

Cancer represents a health problem in Cuba, being the second cause of death in our country. TheNational Cancer Registry went created in 1964 as an instrument for the epidemiological studyof this disease. In 1986, important changes were introduced in the National Cancer Registry regardingorganization, process and validation of the information with the implementation of a new automationinformation system; in 1990 a PC version of the system was developed, and in 1992 the decentralization of the process of the information to all provinces of the country (fourteen provincial cancer registries) was accomplished. The data obtained through the registry shows as main sites of incidence: lung, skin and colon for both sexes; prostate and larynx for men, and breast and cervixuteri for women. As for mortality, lung and colon for both sexes, prostate for men and breast for women are the main sites. The improvement of the quality of the information of the registry haspermitted the use of the data for carrying out investigations that help to plan and assess the NationalCancer Control Program(AU)

Incidencia en Cuba del cáncer en la tercera edad / Incidence of cancer in the elderly in Cuba

El cáncer es considerado como una enfermedad de la tercera edad. Más del 65 porciento de las neoplasias malignas ocurren en este grupo, que representa solamente el 12 porciento de la población nacional. En el artículo se muestra la incidencia de cáncer en la tercera edad y por localizaciones en ambos sexos y se revisan los principales factores de riesgo y las acciones de diagnóstico que intervienen en la presentación de éste en Cuba. Los datos empleados corresponden a los casos de más de 60 años de edad, reportados al Registro Nacional de Cáncer de Cuba entre los años 1986 y 1990. Se observa en la incidencia una tendencia creciente en ambos sexos. Los tumores más frecuentes para este grupo fueron: pulmón, piel, próstata, colon-recto y mama. La tasa de incidencia de cáncer en el hombre es 1,5 veces mayor que en la mujer, así como el porcentaje que representa el número de casos del total, excede en un 15 porciento. El riesgo de cáncer se incrementa con la edad por causa de un período mayor de exposición a numerosos cancerígenos(AU)

Incidencia de las Leucemias y los Mielomas en Cuba (1986-1990) / Incidence of leukemias and myelomas in Cuba (1986-1990)

En Cuba, las leucemias y mielomas (L y M) se incluyen tradicionalmente en las listas de las 10 localizaciones más frecuentes tanto en la incidencia como en la mortalidad por cáncer. Se describe la incidencia de las L y M en Cuba entre los años 1986 y 1990 de acuerdo con las principales variables epidemiológicas: edad, sexo y variedad histológica. Se incluyeron todos los casos reportados al registro nacional de cáncer (RCN) por L y M entre 1986 y 1990. Fueron calculadas las tasas específicas para los grupos de edad y las tasas estandarizadas a la población mundial según el sexo y la variedad histológica. Fueron notificados al RCN 4 179 casos con L y M, unos 836 casos por año con una tasa cruda de 7,98. Las leucemias fueron la mayoría de estas neoplasias, siendo las más frecuentes las mieloides. Las leucemias linfoides agudas tuvieron el más alto índice de masculinidad y mostraron la típica curva bimodal de esta enfermedad. Para las leucemias linfoides crónicas, en el grupo de hombres enfermos de 85 años y más las tasas fueron más del doble del mismo grupo en el sexo femenino. Las leucemias mieloides mostraron un abrupto incremento de las tasas específicas después de los 45 años. Los mielomas representaron el 28,31 por ciento de todas las neoplasias estudiadas, la distribución por edades de sus tasas muestra un riesgo muy pequeño en la niñez y la juventud y un incremento considerable de las tasas a partir de los 45 años. Se sugiere un necesario salto positivo en la cobertura del RNC a los servicios hematológicos del país y en la calidad del diagnóstico diferencial de las L y M, actualmente más del 50 por ciento de los casos son reportados sólo a través de los certificados de defunción(AU)