Albendazole metabolites excretion in human saliva as a biomarker to assess treatment compliance in mass drug administration (MDA) anthelmintic programs.

Soil-transmitted-helminth (STH) infections continue to be a persistent global public health problem. Control strategies for STH have been based on the use of mass drug administration (MDA). Coverage and compliance assessment is critical to understanding the true effectiveness of albendazole (ABZ) in those MDA programs. The aims of this work were to characterize the pattern of albendazole and metabolites excretion in human saliva, and to develop a saliva-based biomarker (HPLC drug/metabolite detection) useful to accurately estimate the coverage/compliance in MDA campaigns. The study subjects were 12 healthy volunteers treated with a single oral dose of ABZ (400 mg). Saliva and blood (dried blood spot, DBS) samples were taken previously and between 2 and 72 h post-treatment. The samples were analyzed by HPLC with UV detection, C18 reversed-phase column. ABZ sulphoxide was the main analyte recovered up to 72 h p.t. in blood and saliva. The concentration profiles measured in the blood (DBS samples) were higher (P < 0.05) than those in saliva, however, this ABZ-metabolite was recovered longer in saliva. The in vivo measurement of drugs/metabolites in saliva samples from ABZ-treated volunteers offers strong scientific evidence to support the use of saliva as a valid biological sample for assessing compliance in MDA programs.

Assessment of Diet-Related Changes on Albendazole Absorption, Systemic Exposure, and Pattern of Urinary Excretion in Treated Human Volunteers.

Soil-transmitted-helminth (STH) infections are a persistent global public health problem. Control strategies for STH have been based on the use of mass drug administration (MDA) mainly targeting preschool- and school-aged-children, although there is increasing interest in expanding treatment to include adults and others through community-wide MDA. Coverage assessment is critical to understanding the real effectiveness of albendazole (ALB) treatment in those MDA programs. The work described here aims to (i) evaluate the effect of type of diet (a heavy or light meal) and fasting before ALB treatment on the systemic disposition of ALB and its metabolites in treated human volunteers and (ii) evaluate the potential feasibility of detecting albendazole metabolites in urine. The data reported here demonstrate that the systemic availability of the active ALB-sulfoxide (ALBSO) metabolite was enhanced more than 2-fold after food ingestion (a heavy or light meal). ALB dissolution improvement related to the ingestion of food may modify the amount of drug/metabolites reaching the parasite, affecting drug efficacy and the overall success of MDA strategies. The measurement in urine samples of the amino-ALB-sulfone (NHALBSO2) derivative and ALBSO for up to 96 h suggests that it may be feasible to develop a noninvasive tool to evaluate compliance/adherence to ALB treatment.

Immunochemical and Physical Quantitation of Grass and Olive Pollen Allergens: Correlation With Asthma Admissions in Cáceres, Spain.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The association between pollen counts and allergen levels in the air is controversial. Objectives: The aims of the study were to quantify total and major allergen levels of Phleum pratense and Olea europaea and to analyze their correlation with grass and olive pollen counts and the number of asthma attacks attended at Complejo Hospitalario Universitario, Cáceres, Spain. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A volumetric air sampler and a Burkard spore trap were used for pollen and aeroallergen collection during April- June 2011. Filters were extracted, and major allergens were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: May was the main grass pollination period, with a maximum peak of 1362 grains/m3 (May 13). The main pollination period for olive was April 30-May 20, with a maximum peak of 851 grains/m3 (May 11). A moderate correlation was observed between asthma exacerbations and grass pollen counts or Phleum total allergen levels; this became stronger when a 3-day offset was introduced. A significant association was observed between asthma exacerbations and total olive allergen or olive pollen grain levels when a 1-day offset was introduced. The maximum correlation (moderate-high) was observed 4 days and 6 days away from the maximum olive pollen peak and the maximum Ole e 1 peak level, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals a significant correlation between grass and olive pollination and an increase in the number of visits to the emergency room for asthma attacks. The aerobiological pattern of allergen levels in the air is similar to that of pollen counts during the grass and olive pollination periods.

Immunochemical and physical quantitation of grass and olive pollen allergens: correlation with asthma admissions in Cáceres, Spain

BACKGROUND: The association between pollen counts and allergen levels in the air is controversial. OBJECTIVES: The aims of the study were to quantify total and major allergen levels of Phleum pratense and Olea europaea and to analyze their correlation with grass and olive pollen counts and the number of asthma attacks attended at Complejo Hospitalario Universitario, Cáceres, Spain. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A volumetric air sampler and a Burkard spore trap were used for pollen and aeroallergen collection during April- June 2011. Filters were extracted, and major allergens were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: May was the main grass pollination period, with a maximum peak of 1362 grains/m3 (May 13). The main pollination period for olive was April 30-May 20, with a maximum peak of 851 grains/m3 (May 11). A moderate correlation was observed between asthma exacerbations and grass pollen counts or Phleum total allergen levels; this became stronger when a 3-day offset was introduced. A significant association was observed between asthma exacerbations and total olive allergen or olive pollen grain levels when a 1-day offset was introduced. The maximum correlation (moderate-high) was observed 4 days and 6 days away from the maximum olive pollen peak and the maximum Ole e 1 peak level, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This study reveals a significant correlation between grass and olive pollination and an increase in the number of visits to the emergency room for asthma attacks. The aerobiological pattern of allergen levels in the air is similar to that of pollen counts during the grass and olive pollination periods

ANTECEDENTES: La relación entre los niveles de pólenes en el aire y los niveles de alérgenos es controvertida. OBJETIVOS: El objetivo de este estudio fue cuantificar los niveles de alérgenos principales y totales de Phleum pratense y Olea europaea, y analizar su relación con los niveles de pólenes y el número de crisis asmáticas atendidas en el Complejo Hospitalario de Cáceres, España. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Se captaron pólenes y aeroalérgenos durante Abril-Junio de 2011, utilizando un colector de aire volumétrico y una trampa Burkard. Se extrajeron los alérgenos de los filtros y se cuantificaron mediante ELISA. RESULTADOS: Mayo fue el periodo de mayor polinización, (13 de Mayo, pico máximo de 1.362 granos de polen de gramíneas/m3). El mayor periodo de polinización del olivo fue del 30 de Abril al 20 de Mayo, (11 de Mayo, pico máximo: 851 granos de polen de olivo/m3). Se observó una correlación moderada entre los niveles de polen o alérgenos totales y exacerbaciones de asma, que aumentó al introducir un desfase de 3 días (Phleum), y de 1 día (olivo). La máxima correlación se observó a los 4 y 6 días del pico máximo de polen y de Ole e 1, respectivamente. CONCLUSIONES: Este estudio muestra una correlación significativa entre la polinización de gramíneas y olivo y el aumento del número de visitas a urgencias debidas a crisis asmáticas. Los patrones aerobiológicos de los niveles de alérgenos en el aire son comparables a los recuentos de pólenes durante los periodos de polinización de gramíneas y olivo

Rápida cicatrización de la úlcera venosa con técnica TAPIRS-LF con láser, espuma y vendajes multicapa / Fast Healing of venous ulcers with Terminal, Axial and Perforator Interruption of the Reflux Source (TAPIRS-LF) with Laser- Foam and multilayer bandage

Introducción: Las técnicas quirúrgicas usadas para el control de la hipertensión venosa poco a poco se han remplazado por procedimientos mínimamente invasivos (térmicos y tumescentes) como el láser intravenoso (no térmicos, no tumescentes) como escleroterapia con espuma ecoguiada. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar el tiempo de cicatrización de la úlcera venosa (UV) con un protocolo Terminal, Axial and Perforator Interruption of the Reflux Source with Laser and Foam más curas con vendaje multicapa hasta cicatrización de la herida. Material y métodos: Ensayo no controlado en pacientes con UV (CEAP C6) realizado en la consulta externa de cirugía vascular, durante 2015-2016. Se incluye a 27 pacientes mayores de 18 años, portadores de una UV con eje axial insuficiente e índice tobillo-brazo mayor a 0,8. Se analizaron en total 27 extremidades. Se realizó láser endoluminal 1470 nm en eje axial, inyección de escleroespuma (técnica de Tessari) usando polidocanol al 3% en el sistema venoso superficial con oclusión del eje venoso axial, perforantes y terminal asociados al lecho de la úlcera, junto con aplicación de vendaje multicapa y curas según las condiciones de la herida. Se realizaron controles clínicos y fotográficos en cada cura, aplicación de vendaje multicapa hasta el cierre de la UV y controles ecográficos a la semanas 4, 12 y 24. Resultados: El promedio de edad fue de 59,6 años, la duración de la úlcera activa previo al tratamiento fue de 11,7 meses, con diámetro 15,06 cm2 y se obtuvo un 92,5% de cicatrización de UV a la semana 8. Conclusión: La oclusión endoluminal venosa usando la técnica Terminal, Axial and Perforator Interruption of the Reflux Source with Laser and Foam (cierre de los ejes axiales, perforantes y terminales insuficientes) usando una técnica mixta de láser endoluminal y espuma, junto la aplicación de vendaje multicapa es una técnica que favorece la rápida cicatrización de las UV

Introduction: The traditional surgical techniques are being replaced by minimally invasive procedures, such as Endovenous Laser (Thermal, Tumescent), and ultrasound foam sclerotherapy (Non-Thermal, Non-Tumescent). The aim of this study was to determine the healing time and rate of venous ulcers (VU) using a Terminal, Axial and Perforator Interruption of the Reflux Source (TAPIRS-LF) protocol. This included Endovascular Laser Treatment and endoluminal venous occlusion with ultrasound-guided foam and a multilayer bandage system until ulcer healing was achieved. Material and methods: A prospective non-controlled trial was conducted on patients with chronic venous leg ulcers (CEAP [clinical, etiological, anatomical and pathological elements] classification C6) during 2015 and 2016. A total of 27 patients aged 18 years and over, presenting with venous insufficiency, VU, and an ankle-brachial index greater than 0.8, were included, with a total of 27 extremities being analysed. All of the patients were subjected to thermal and non-thermal endoluminal occlusion, with endovenous laser treatment in axial venous system, with ultrasound-guided foam in the distal axial superficial venous system and perforator and terminal veins near to the ulcer, using the Tessari method with 3% polidocanol. Follow-up was carried out every week and a Doppler test was performed after 4, 12, and 24 weeks. Results: The mean age of the patients was 59.6 years. The active ulcer duration prior to treatment was 11.7 months. The mean VU diameter was 15.06 cm2, and 92.5% VU were seen to be healing at 8 weeks. Conclusions: The minimally invasive ablation using Terminal, Axial and Perforator Reflux with compression in patients with active VU results in a faster healing during the treatment of chronic venous ulcers

Upregulation of TET activity with ascorbic acid induces epigenetic modulation of lymphoma cells.

The Ten Eleven Translocation (TET) enzymes have been found to be mutated in both diffuse large B-cell (DLBCL) and peripheral T-cell (PTCL) lymphomas resulting in DNA hypermethylation. Recent studies in embryonal stem cells showed that ascorbic acid (AA) is a cofactor for TET with a binding site at the catalytic domain, and enhances TET activity. We hypothesized that AA could potentially enhance TET activity in lymphoma cells to cause DNA demethylation, reactivate expression of tumor suppressor genes and enhance chemosensitivity. We demonstrate in vitro that AA treatment of DLBCL and PTCL cells using AA concentrations achievable intravenously increased TET activity leading to DNA demethylation. This epigenetic effect is independent of hydrogen peroxide. AA treatment increased the expression of SMAD1, a tumor suppressor gene known to be suppressed by methylation, and increased chemosensitivity of lymphoma cells. Twenty-nine percent (10/34) of unselected lymphoma patients had plasma AA levels that were deficient suggesting an additional clinical mechanism of TET hypofunction. These data indicate that AA has the potential to modify TET function in lymphoma and enhance chemosensitivity. In addition, the AA deficiency seen in some patients may further impair TET function and contribute to resistance. Clinical trials testing intravenous AA with chemotherapy are warranted.

Rápida cicatrización de la úlcera venosa con técnica TAPIRS (ecoesclerosis del eje axial, perforantes y terminal insuficientes) más vendaje multicapa. Ensayo clínico / Rapid healing of venous ulcers with terminal, axial and perforator interruption of the reflux source (TAPIRS) plus multilayer bandage: A clinical trial

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las úlceras venosas (UV) son las úlceras más frecuentes de las extremidades, y generan morbilidad importante y altos costos para los sistemas de salud. Las técnicas quirúrgicas usadas para el control de la hipertensión venosa han venido siendo remplazadas con mayor frecuencia por procedimientos mínimamente invasivos como la escleroespuma. OBJETIVO: Determinar el tiempo de cicatrización de la UV con un protocolo de manejo que incluyó la oclusión venosa endoluminal con escleroespuma ecoguiada del eje axial, perforantes y terminal insuficientes (técnica TAPIRS) más curaciones con vendaje multicapas (VM) hasta la cicatrización de la herida. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Ensayo clínico prospectivo no controlado (cuasiexperimental) en pacientes con UV (CEAP C6) realizado en la consulta externa de cirugía vascular, durante 2013-2014. Se incluye a 17 pacientes mayores de 18 años, portadores de una UV con eje axial insuficiente, e índice tobillo-brazo mayor a 0,8. Se analizaron en total 17 extremidades. Se realizó inyección de escleroespuma (técnica de Tessari) usando polidocanol al 3% en el sistema venoso superficial con oclusión del eje venoso axial, perforantes y terminal asociados al lecho de la úlcera, guiada por ecodoppler junto con aplicación de VM y curación según las condiciones de la herida. Se realizaron controles clínicos y fotográficos en cada curación, aplicación de VM hasta el cierre de la UV y controles ecográficos a la 4 y 12 semanas. RESULTADOS: El promedio de edad fue de 56,4 años, la duración de la úlcera activa previamente al tratamiento fue de 2,96 años, todas las UV cicatrizaron antes de las 7 semanas, con una tasa de cierre de 3,92 cm2/semana y el tiempo de cierre de la úlcera fue de 3,92 semanas (24 días). CONCLUSIÓN: La oclusión endoluminal venosa usando la técnica TAPIRS (cierre de los ejes axiales, perforantes y terminales insuficientes con escleroespuma ecoguiada) junto a la aplicación de VM es una técnica que favorece la rápida cicatrización de las UV

INTRODUCTION: Chronic venous ulcers (CVU) are the most common ulcers occurring in the lower limbs, having a high morbidity and place a high financial strain on the health system. The traditional surgical techniques are being replaced by minimally invasive procedures, such as foam sclerotherapy. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine CVU healing times and rates using the terminal, axial and perforator interruption of the reflux source (TAPIRS) protocol, which included an endoluminal venous occlusion with ultrasound-guided foam and a multilayer bandage system until achieving ulcer healing. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective uncontrolled trial was conducted on patients with chronic venous leg ulcers (CEAP [clinical, etiological, anatomical and pathological elements] C6) during 2013 and 2014. A total of 17 patients aged 18 years and over, presenting with venous insufficiency, CVU, and an ankle-brachial index greater than 0.8, were included, and total of 17 limbs were analysed. All of the patients were subjected to endoluminal occlusion with ultrasoundguided foam in the axial superficial venous system and perforator and terminal veins near to the ulcer, using Tessari method with 3% polidocanol. Follow-up was carried out at every week and a doppler test was conducted after 4 and 12 weeks. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 56.4 years. The active ulcer duration prior to treatment was 2.96 years. The study showed that all CVU were healing before 7 weeks, the healing rate was 3.92 cm2/week, and the time until the ulcer was healed was 3.53 weeks (24 days). CONCLUSIONS: The minimally invasive ablation of terminal, axial and perforator reflux with compression in patients is a technique that leads to faster healing times of CVU

Analysis of the Structure and Function of FOX-4 Cephamycinase.

Class C ß-lactamases poorly hydrolyze cephamycins (e.g., cefoxitin, cefotetan, and moxalactam). In the past 2 decades, a new family of plasmid-based AmpC ß-lactamases conferring resistance to cefoxitin, the FOX family, has grown to include nine unique members descended from the Aeromonas caviae chromosomal AmpC. To understand the basis for the unique cephamycinase activity in the FOX family, we determined the first X-ray crystal structures of FOX-4, apo enzyme and the acyl-enzyme with its namesake compound, cefoxitin, using the Y150F deacylation-deficient variant. Notably, recombinant expression of N-terminally tagged FOX-4 also yielded an inactive adenylylated enzyme form not previously observed in ß-lactamases. The posttranslational modification (PTM), which occurs on the active site Ser64, would not seem to provide a selective advantage, yet might present an opportunity for the design of novel antibacterial drugs. Substantial ligand-induced changes in the enzyme are seen in the acyl-enzyme complex, particularly the R2 loop and helix H10 (P289 to N297), with movement of F293 by 10.3 Å. Taken together, this study provides the first picture of this highly proficient class C cephamycinase, uncovers a novel PTM, and suggests a possible cephamycin resistance mechanism involving repositioning of the substrate due to the presence of S153P, N289P, and N346I substitutions in the ligand binding pocket.

Tratamiento de la úlcera venosa con escleroespuma frente a un método convencional. Ensayo clínico, prospectivo y aleatorizado / Venous ulcer treatment with sclerofoam versus a conventional treatment: randomized prospective clinical trial

INTRODUCCIÓN: Las úlceras venosas (UV) son las úlceras más frecuentes de la extremidad inferior, ellas generan alta morbilidad con importantes costos para los sistemas de salud. OBJETIVO: Determinar el porcentaje de curación de UV mediante un tratamiento convencional frente al mismo tratamiento más oclusión venosa endoluminal con escleroespuma ecoguiada. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Ensayo clínico prospectivo y aleatorizado, realizado en la consulta externa de cirugía vascular del Hospital Occidente de Kennedy-Bogotá, entre los años 2011 y 2012. Se incluye a 44 pacientes mayores de 18 años, portadores de una UV e índice tobillo-brazo mayor a 0,8. Se analizaron en total 48 extremidades. Los pacientes fueron aleatorizados en 2 grupos: a) control (cura local húmeda más vendaje no compresivo) y b) ensayo: al tratamiento del grupo control se asocia inyección de escleroespuma (técnica de Tessari) en el sistema venoso superficial insuficiente, guiado por ecodoppler. Se realizaron controles a las 3, 8, 12 y 24 semanas. RESULTADOS: Al final del seguimiento (24 semanas), la curación de UV fue del 83,3% (20 extremidades) en el grupo de oclusión endoluminal con espuma ecoguiada frente al 12,5% (3 extremidades) del grupo control o convencional (p = 0,0005). No se observaron complicaciones mayores, derivadas de los tratamientos, en ningún grupo. CONCLUSIÓN: La oclusión endoluminal venosa con escleroespuma ecoguiada es segura y efectiva. Las tasas de curación de UV con esta técnica, mínimamente invasiva, son superiores a las del tratamiento conservador con curas húmedas y vendaje no compresivo

INTRODUCTION: Venous ulcers (VU) are the most common ulcers of the lower limb. It has a high morbidity and is a financial strain on the health system. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the rate of healing VU with a conventional treatment versus the use of conventional treatment plus ultrasound-guided foam endoluminal occlusion. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective randomized clinical trial was conducted on patients attending the Vascular Surgery clinics in the Hospital Occidente de Kennedy-Bogotá during 2011-2012. A total of 44 patients age 18 years and over, with venous insufficiency, VU, and an ankle-brachial index greater than 0.8, were included. A total of 48 extremities were analyzed in the two groups; one group a) Control: (conventional treatment with non-compressive bandages, vaseline gauze, and wound care) and b) Study group: control treatment plus endoluminal occlusion with ultrasound-guided foam in the superficial venous system by Tessari method using 1% lapidium hydrochloride (sklerol). Follow-up was carried out at week 3, 8, 12 and 24. RESULTS: The healing rate of the ulcer at week 24 was 20 (83.3%) extremities healed by the endoluminal occlusion with ultrasound-guided foam group vs. 3 (12.5%) extremities healed in the group using the conventional treatment (P=.0005). No major complications arising from treatment were observed in either group. CONCLUSION: The healing rates of the VU after endoluminal occlusion with ultrasound-guided foam is safe and effective. This minimally invasive technique is far superior to conventional treatment with non-compressive bandages, vaseline gauze, and wound care, exclusively. Registration number of this study: NCT01594658 in clinical trials

Robustness to mechanical perturbations of center-launching technique for transparent board-to-board and data server interconnects.

Center-launching technique appears as a promising method to allow single-mode propagation in multi-mode fibers, guaranteeing full transparency to the transmitted optical signal also for applications in board-to-board and data server interconnects. In this paper we show that this technique is robust to mechanical perturbations up to about 1 kHz, demonstrating that the vibrations do not affect the transmission performances. Different experimental configurations are tested in order to exclude multimode propagation and to confirm the only fundamental mode propagation. Finally, a theoretical discussion comments the experimental results.

Sandfly saliva of Lutzomyia ovallesi (Diptera: Psychodidae) as a possible marker for the transmission of Leishmania in Venezuela Andes region.

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES: The saliva of the Phlebotominae is highly immunogenic to the vertebrate host and is a determining factor in the Leishmania infection. The aim of this work was to study the saliva of Lutzomyia ovallesi as a possible risk marker for the transmission of Leishmania. METHODS: Two populations of L. ovallesi from different geographical areas and subjected to different environmental conditions were compared by geometric morphometry of the wings, by protein profile analysis of salivary glands and by assessing the presence of anti-saliva protein in human sera confronted with laboratory L. ovallesi saliva. RESULTS: The results showed differences in the isometric size and structure of the wings but no allometric effects. Protein profiles of salivary glands of both the L. ovallesi populations studied were found to be similar, based on 11 protein bands with molecular weights ranging from 16 to 99 kDa. Anti-saliva antibodies were present in human sera, but human sera infected and uninfected with leishmaniasis could not be differentiated. INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSION: We conclude that the saliva of laboratory-reared L. ovallesi is representative of that of the wild population. It is suggested to study the presence of anti-saliva antibodies in other species of sandflies and mosquitoes.

Sistema de actividades metodológicas con enfoque de competencia didáctica para profesores de Farmacología I, de la carrera de Medicina: Matanzas / System of methodological activities with an approach of didactical competence for professors of Pharmacology I in the career of Medicine: in Matanzas

Se asumió como enfoque el de las competencias docentes del profesor universitario en el contexto de la universalización. Se utilizaron métodos teóricos, que posibilitaron el estudio en relación con la concepción de la competencia didáctica que se considera básica en los profesores, para sustentar la propuesta diseñada; los métodos empíricos, permitieron recoger información para fundamentar los resultados finales de la investigación. Como procedimientos estadísticos se tuvo en cuenta la estadística descriptiva con frecuencias y porcentajes. El resultado principal de la investigación fue el diseño de un sistema de actividades metodológicas con enfoque de competencia didáctica. Se consideró factible y pertinente la propuesta diseñada, como una de las vías para el desarrollo de competencia didáctica que redunde en el perfeccionamiento del desempeño docente de los profesores universitarios

We assumed as our approach the teaching competences of the university professor in the context of the universalization. We used theoretic methods, allowing the study in relation with the conception of the didactic competence, considered basic in professors, to support de designed proposition. The empirical methods allowed gathering information to sustain the final results of the investigation. As statistical procedure we took into account the descriptive statistics with frequencies and percentages. The main result of the investigation was the design of a system of methodological activities with a didactic competence approach. The designed proposal was considered feasible and pertinent, as a way to develop the didactical competence leading to the improvement of the teaching performance of the university professors

Sistema de actividades metodológicas con enfoque de competencia didáctica para profesores de Farmacología I, de la carrera de Medicina: Matanzas / System of methodological activities with an approach of didactical competence for professors of Pharmacology I in the career of Medicine: in Matanzas

Se asumió como enfoque el de las competencias docentes del profesor universitario en el contexto de la universalización. Se utilizaron métodos teóricos, que posibilitaron el estudio en relación con la concepción de la competencia didáctica que se considera básica en los profesores, para sustentar la propuesta diseñada; los métodos empíricos, permitieron recoger información para fundamentar los resultados finales de la investigación. Como procedimientos estadísticos se tuvo en cuenta la estadística descriptiva con frecuencias y porcentajes. El resultado principal de la investigación fue el diseño de un sistema de actividades metodológicas con enfoque de competencia didáctica. Se consideró factible y pertinente la propuesta diseñada, como una de las vías para el desarrollo de competencia didáctica que redunde en el perfeccionamiento del desempeño docente de los profesores universitarios(AU)

We assumed as our approach the teaching competences of the university professor in the context of the universalization. We used theoretic methods, allowing the study in relation with the conception of the didactic competence, considered basic in professors, to support de designed proposition. The empirical methods allowed gathering information to sustain the final results of the investigation. As statistical procedure we took into account the descriptive statistics with frequencies and percentages. The main result of the investigation was the design of a system of methodological activities with a didactic competence approach. The designed proposal was considered feasible and pertinent, as a way to develop the didactical competence leading to the improvement of the teaching performance of the university professors(AU)

La video clase y la multimedia como medio de enseñanza-aprendizaje de los contenidos morfológicos / The videoconference and multimedia as teaching-learning means for morphologic contents

En la última década, la videoconferencia y la multimedia están siendo percibidas como los medios con más posibilidades didácticas en contextos de enseñanza superior. En sus inicios, la videoconferencia suplió las limitaciones espacio-temporales de la educación a distancia. Progresivamente, este medio fue encontrando un reconocimiento en instituciones convencionales de enseñanza propiciado por el desarrollo de experiencias de calidad basadas en la incorporación de recursos externos al aula. Desde una perspectiva instrumentalista, los medios son soportes materiales de información que deben reflejar la realidad de la forma más perfecta posible. Responden a un modelo estándar de alumno y a una cultura escolar homogénea, y se consideran por sí mismos instrumentos generadores de aprendizajes. Las características del diseño didáctico y computacional de un entorno hipermedia para aprender se intenta conectar a la concepción de promover el aprendizaje utilizando la computadora. El entorno consiste en un conjunto de actividades basadas en andamiajes tendientes a inducir la construcción de significados mediante la activa participación del estudiante.

During the last decade, the videoconference and multimedia are being perceived as the means with more didactic possibilities in the context of the high education. At the beginning, the videoconference helped avoiding limitations of the distance learning. Progressively, this means began to be recognized in conventional teaching institutions because of the development of qualitative experiences based on the usage of out-class resources. From an instrumentalist perspective, the means are material supports of the information that should express the reality in the most possible perfect way. They answer to a standard model of students and to a homogeneous school culture, and are considered, by themselves, as instruments generating learning. The characteristics of a computational and didactic design of a hypermedia setting to learn are intended to be linked to a conception of promoting learning using computers. The setting is a group of activities based on structures tending to induce the construction of meanings through the active participation of the student.

La video clase y la multimedia como medio de enseñanza-aprendizaje de los contenidos morfológicos / The videoconference and multimedia as teaching-learning means for morphologic contents

En la última década, la videoconferencia y la multimedia están siendo percibidas como los medios con más posibilidades didácticas en contextos de enseñanza superior. En sus inicios, la videoconferencia suplió las limitaciones espacio-temporales de la educación a distancia. Progresivamente, este medio fue encontrando un reconocimiento en instituciones convencionales de enseñanza propiciado por el desarrollo de experiencias de calidad basadas en la incorporación de recursos externos al aula. Desde una perspectiva instrumentalista, los medios son soportes materiales de información que deben reflejar la realidad de la forma más perfecta posible. Responden a un modelo estándar de alumno y a una cultura escolar homogénea, y se consideran por sí mismos instrumentos generadores de aprendizajes. Las características del diseño didáctico y computacional de un entorno hipermedia para aprender se intenta conectar a la concepción de promover el aprendizaje utilizando la computadora. El entorno consiste en un conjunto de actividades basadas en andamiajes tendientes a inducir la construcción de significados mediante la activa participación del estudiante(AU)

During the last decade, the videoconference and multimedia are being perceived as the means with more didactic possibilities in the context of the high education. At the beginning, the videoconference helped avoiding limitations of the distance learning. Progressively, this means began to be recognized in conventional teaching institutions because of the development of qualitative experiences based on the usage of out-class resources. From an instrumentalist perspective, the means are material supports of the information that should express the reality in the most possible perfect way. They answer to a standard model of students and to a homogeneous school culture, and are considered, by themselves, as instruments generating learning. The characteristics of a computational and didactic design of a hypermedia setting to learn are intended to be linked to a conception of promoting learning using computers. The setting is a group of activities based on structures tending to induce the construction of meanings through the active participation of the student(AU)

Las TICs para la formación y desarrollo de habilidades intelectuales de la asignatura Histología I en el Policlínico Universitario

La evaluación de las habilidades Describir y Comparar muestra que las Nuevas Tecnologías de la Información y las Comunicaciones pueden ser incorporadas al proceso docente para fortalecer y hacer eficientes y efectivas la apropiación de los contenidos a pesar de ser impartidas por profesores noveles que aún tienen deficiencias en su preparación científico metodológica. Introducción. A partir del curso 2004 2005 una manifestación muy actual y revolucionaria dentro de la Universalización de la Educación Superior se pone de manifiesto en el proceso de enseñanza aprendizaje de las Ciencias Médicas con el proyecto Policlínico Universidad (PU).(1) .(2) (3)(4)Como ciencia morfológica, la Histología se basa en la estructura como elemento fundamental y tiene como fuente de información la imagen, por lo que resulta indispensable en su comprensión, la utilización de recursos e instrumentos que faciliten la observación de estas. La observación constituye, por lo tanto, el método de estudio fundamental de la disciplina. El objetivo que los autores del trabajo se han propuesto es explorar el nivel de desarrollo de la habilidad describir y comparar en los estudiantes de Medicina de los Policlínicos Universitarios en el curso 2005 -06

Integración de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación al proceso docente educativo en la Educación Superior / Integration of Information and Communication technologies to the educational teaching process in Higher Education Level

El objetivo esencial de la Educación Superior en Cuba es garantizar profesionales con una sólida formación teórico-práctica que responda de manera creadora a problemas esenciales relacionados con su profesión. Constituye una necesidad insoslayable que el proceso de asimilación se desarrolle de forma productiva, mediante un sistema de acciones y actividades, estructuradas y organizadas, que condicionen favorablemente estos propósitos. A partir de este enfoque se evidencia que la enseñanza podrá responder a las demandas de la sociedad mediante el establecimiento de una relación dialéctica entre la lógica de la ciencia, la lógica de la profesión y la lógica de los instrumentos o etapas de realización de las tareas, a fin de lograr la óptima calidad en la formación del futuro profesional. El uso de la computación en la Medicina es una de las aplicaciones más veteranas que existe desde hace varias décadas; la misma ayuda a los profesionales de la Medicina en su lucha contra las enfermedades mediante exploraciones imagenológicas, en el campo de la investigación médico farmacéutica y bioquímica, aspectos todos ellos relacionados con la lucha de los profesionales del sistema por lograr un buen nivel de salud en la población. Es necesario motivar a profesores en la realización de estudios que prueben la efectividad del uso de la informática en el proceso docente y esto es posible capacitando a los profesores y vinculándolos a investigaciones multidisciplinarias sobre estos problemas, donde el componente pedagógico ocupe el lugar esencial que le corresponde...(AU)

A transition-state analogue reduces protein dynamics in hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase.

Hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT) is the key enzyme in purine base salvage in humans and in purine auxotrophs, including Plasmodium falciparum, the leading cause of malaria. Hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) exchange into amide bonds, quantitated by on-line HPLC and mass spectrometry, has been used to compare the dynamic and conformational properties of human HGPRT alone, the HGPRT-GMP-Mg(2+) complex, the HGPRT-IMP-MgPPi <==> HGPRT-Hx-MgPRPP equilibrating mixture, and the transition-state analogue complex HGPRT-ImmGP-MgPPi. The rate and extent of H/D exchange of 26 peptic peptides, spanning 91% of the primary structure, have been monitored. Human HGPRT has 207 amide H/D exchange sites. After 1 h in D2O, HGPRT alone exchanges 160, HGPRT-GMP-Mg(2+) exchanges 154, the equilibrium complex exchanges 139, and the transition-state analogue complex exchanges 126 of these amide protons. H/D exchange rates are correlated with structure for peptides in (1) catalytic site loops, (2) a connected peptide of the subunit interface of the tetramer, and (3) a loop buried in the catalytic site. Structural properties related to H/D exchange are defined from crystallographic studies of the HGPRT-GMP-Mg(2+) and HGPRT-ImmGP-MgPPi complexes. Transition-state analogue binding strengthens the interaction between subunits and tightens the catalytic site loops. The solvent exchange dynamics in specific peptides correlates with hydrogen bond patterns, solvent access, crystallographic B-factors, and ligand exchange rates. Solvent exchange reveals loop dynamics in the free enzyme, Michaelis complexes, and the complex with the bound transition-state analogue. Proton transfer paths, rather than dynamic motion, are required to explain exchange into a buried catalytic site peptide in the complex with the bound transition-state analogue.

Identification by mass spectrometry of a new alpha-tubulin isotype expressed in human breast and lung carcinoma cell lines.

The extensive C-terminal molecular heterogeneity of alpha- and beta-tubulin is a consequence of multiple isotypes, the products of distinct genes, that undergo several posttranslational modifications. These include polyglutamylation and polyglycylation of both subunits, reversible tyrosination and removal of the penultimate glutamate from alpha-tubulin, and phosphorylation of the beta III isotype. A mass spectrometry-based method has been developed for the analysis of the C-terminal diversity of tubulin from human cell lines. Total cell extracts are resolved by SDS--PAGE and transferred to nitrocellulose, and the region of the blot corresponding to tubulin (approximately 50 kDa) was excised and digested with CNBr to release the highly divergent C-terminal tubulin fragments. The masses of the human alpha- and beta-tubulin CNBr-derived C-terminal peptides are all in the 1500--4000 Da mass range and can be analyzed directly by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry in the negative ion mode without significant interference from other released peptides. In this study, the tubulin isotype diversity in MDA-MB-231, a human breast carcinoma cell line, and A549, a human non-small lung cancer cell line, is reported. The major tubulin isotypes present in both cell lines are k-alpha 1 and beta 1. Importantly, we report a previously unknown alpha isotype present at significant levels in both cell lines. Moreover, the degree of posttranslational modifications to all isotypes was limited. Glu-tubulin, in which the C-terminal tyrosine of alpha-tubulin is removed, was not detected. In contrast to mammalian neuronal tubulin which exhibits extensive polyglutamylation, only low-level monoglutamylation of the k-alpha 1 and beta 1 isotypes was observed in these two human cell lines.