Tl(I) and Tl(III) induce reticulum stress in MDCK cells.

The effects of the exposure of proliferating MDCK cells to thallium [Tl(I) or Tl(III)] on cell viability and proliferation were investigated. Although Tl stopped cell proliferation, the viability was > 95%. After 3 h, two autophagy markers (SQSTM-1 expression and LC3ß localization) were altered, and at 48 h increased expression of SQSTM-1 (60%) and beclin-1 (50-100%) were found. At 24 h, the expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers ATF-6 and IRE-1 were increased in 100% and 150%, respectively, accompanied by XBP-1 splicing and nuclear translocation. At 48 h, major ultrastructure abnormalities were found, including ER enlargement and cytoplasmic vacuolation which was not prevented by protein synthesis inhibition. Increased PHB (85% and 40% for Tl(I) and Tl(III), respectively) and decreased ß-tubulin (45%) expression were found which may be related to the promotion of paraptosis. In summary, Tl(I) and Tl(III) promoted ER stress and probably paraptosis in MDCK cells, impairing their proliferation.

Estrés académico en estudiantes de Medicina diagnosticados en la Unidad de Orientación Estudiantil / Academic stress in Medicine students diagnosed in the Student Direction Unit i: en

Introducción: La educación universitaria constituye un proceso generador de muchas tensiones para los estudiantes de todo el mundo, que se ha asociado a altos niveles de estrés, ansiedad y depresión. Objetivo: Describir las manifestaciones de estrés académico en estudiantes del tercer año de la carrera de Medicina. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, transversal y retrospectivo de 10 estudiantes de la Facultad de Medicina No. 1 de Santiago de Cuba, diagnosticados con estrés académico en la Unidad de Orientación Estudiantil, desde enero hasta junio de 2022. Resultados: Predominó el estrés moderado en 70,0 % de los alumnos, con una primacía del sexo femenino (50,0 %). La frecuencia de intensidad de la preocupación fue expresada en el valor categorial mucho (70,0 %). Entre los principales factores estresores identificados figuraron: sobrecarga de tareas y trabajos, evaluaciones de los profesores y participación en clase, que en su totalidad forman parte de la dinámica del proceso formativo de la carrera. También prevaleció la diversidad de estrategias de afrontamiento a dicho estrés. Conclusiones: El estrés académico se presentó mayormente en las esferas afectiva y conductual de los estudiantes y se asoció a sucesos vivenciales como factores estresores.

Introduction: University education constitutes a process that generates many tensions for the students from all over the world, which has been associated with high stress levels, anxiety and depression. Objective: To describe the manifestations of academic stress in students from the third year of Medicine. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional and retrospective study of 10 students from the Medicine Faculty No. 1 was carried out in Santiago de Cuba, diagnosed with academic stress in the Student Direction Unit, from January to June, 2022. Results: The moderated stress prevailed in 70.0 % of the students, with a primacy of female sex (50.0 %). The frequency of intensity of the concern was expressed in the categorical value (70.0 %) as many. Among the main identified factors that cause stress we can mention: excess of tasks and works, professors evaluations and participation in class that are part of the dynamics in the training process of the career. Also, the diversity of strategies to face this stress prevailed. Conclusions: The academic stress was mostly present in the affective and behavioral spheres of the students and was associated with events experienced as factors that cause stress.

Satisfacción y calidad percibida en cirugía mayor ambulatoria

Fundamento: la calidad es uno de los temas que ha suscitado mayor interés en los investigadores de las más disimiles ramas de la producción, los servicios y las ciencias en los últimos años. Se ha demostrado la necesidad del estudio de la calidad percibida en el ámbito sanitario y, particularmente, en cirugía mayor ambulatoria. Objetivo: evaluar la satisfacción y calidad percibida por pacientes y familiares usuarios de cirugía mayor ambulatoria; determinar la existencia de diferencias en los criterios de pacientes y familiares. Métodos: estudio observacional descriptivo desde enero de 2018 a marzo de 2020 en el Servicio de Cirugía General del Hospital Provincial Arnaldo Milián Castro, de Santa Clara. Se aplicaron entrevistas por vía telefónica a 50 pacientes (intervenidos por cirugía mayor ambulatoria) y a un familiar que lo hubiese acompañado durante el proceso de atención. Resultados: se obtuvieron resultados favorables en la satisfacción y percepción de la calidad en los pacientes y familiares sin evidenciarse diferencias estadísticas significativas entre estos grupos. Conclusiones: la cirugía mayor ambulatoria es una modalidad asistencial bien aceptada por los pacientes y sus familiares acompañantes.

Background quality is one of the issues that has aroused the greatest interest in researchers from the most dissimilar branches of production, services and science in recent years. The need to study the perceived quality in the health field and, particularly, in major outpatient surgery has been demonstrated. Objective: to evaluate the satisfaction and quality perceived by patients and relatives who use major outpatient surgery; to determine the existence of differences in the patients and relatives' criteria. Methods: descriptive observational study from January 2018 to March 2020 at the General Surgery Service of the Arnaldo Milián Castro Provincial Hospital, in Santa Clara. Telephone interviews were applied to 50 patients (operated for major outpatient surgery) and a family member who had accompanied them during the care process. Results: favorable results were obtained in satisfaction and quality perception in patients and relatives without showing significant statistical differences between these groups. Conclusions: major ambulatory surgery is a care modality well accepted by patients and their accompanying families.

Vigilancia de Aedes aegypti y el dengue en tiempo de COVID-19

Introducción: Los programas de vigilancia entomológica de Aedes aegypti en el mundo tienen entre sus objetivos determinar cambios en la distribución geográfica del mosquito y obtener medidas relativas de sus poblaciones a través del tiempo. Objetivo: Evaluar el impacto provocado por las medidas de intervención de la COVID-19 en los programas de vigilancia y control de Aedes aegypti. Métodos: Se examinaron artículos originales y de revisión publicados en inglés y en español sobre el tema entre 2010 y 2022. Análisis y síntesis de la información: Los indicadores entomológicos que brinda la vigilancia se afectaron por la pandemia de COVID-19 debido a interrupciones en la ejecución de las actividades antivectoriales en el terreno, como las visitas a las viviendas, la aplicación de tipos de control, la reducción en el número de recursos humanos, la limitación de la participación de la comunidad o la negación, en algunos casos, por parte de población a la entrada del operario en sus viviendas. Se presenta un análisis del impacto de las medidas implementadas contra la COVID-19 que favorecieron el aumento de los casos de dengue. Conclusiones: En el escenario actual la atención debe centrarse en garantizar que la lucha contra el Aedes aegypti y el dengue continúen considerándose servicios esenciales, y que se mantengan las acciones previstas, aunque sea necesario aplicar medidas híbridas entre las actividades vectoriales y las relacionadas con el control de la COVID-19, adaptadas o descentralizadas según corresponda a cada contexto.

Introduction: The entomological surveillance programs of Aedes aegypti in the world have among their objectives to determine changes in the geographical distribution of the mosquito and to obtain relative measurements of their populations over time. Objective: To evaluate the impact of COVID-19 intervention measures on Aedes aegypti surveillance and control programs. Methods: Original and review articles published in English and Spanish on the topic between 2010 and 2022 were examined. Analysis and synthesis of information: The entomological indicators provided by surveillance were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic due to interruptions in the implementation of vector control activities in the field, such as visits to homes, application of control types, reduction in the number of human resources, limitation or denial of community participation, in some cases, by the population at the entrance of the operator in their homes. An analysis of the impact of the measures implemented against COVID-19 that favored the increase in dengue cases is presented. Conclusions: In the current scenario, the focus should be on ensuring that the fight against Aedes aegypti and dengue continues to be considered essential services, and that the planned actions are maintained, although it is necessary to apply hybrid measures between vector activities and those related to the control of COVID-19, adapting or decentralizing them as appropriate to each context.

Low miR-222 expression in human visceral adipose tissue is associated with insulin resistance and PTEN and p53 mRNA levels.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this is study was to analyse the expression of miR-193b, miR-378, miR-Let7-d, and miR-222 in human visceral adipose tissue (VAT), as well as their association with obesity, insulin resistance (IR), and their role in the regulation of genes controlling adipose tissue homeostasis, including adipocytokines, the phosphatase and tension homologue (PTEN), and tumour protein 53 (p53). MATERIAL AND METHODS: VAT was obtained from normal-weight (NW), overweight, and obese (OW/OB) subjects with and without IR. Stem-loop RT-qPCR was used to evaluate miRNA expression levels. miRTarBase 4.0, miRWalk, and DIANA-TarBase v8 were used for prediction of validated target gene of the miRNA analysed. A qPCR was used to evaluate PTEN, p53, leptin (LEP), and adiponectin (ADIPOQ) mRNA. RESULTS: miR-222 was lower in IR subjects, and miR-222 and miR-378 negatively correlated with HOMA-IR. PTEN and p53 are miR-222 direct targets according to databases. mRNA expression of PTEN and p53 was lower in OW/OB subjects with and without IR, compared to NW group and its levels positively associated with miR-222. Additionally, p53 and PTEN are positively associated with serum leptin levels. On the other hand, miR-193b and miR-378 negatively correlated with serum leptin but not with mRNA levels. Moreover, miR-Let-7d negatively correlated with serum adiponectin but not with adiponectin mRNA levels. CONCLUSIONS: Lower miR-222 levels are associated with IR, and PTEN and p53 expression; the implication of these genes in adipose tissue homeostasis needs more research.

Consecuencias psicológicas del sexting y relación con el estrés académico / Psychological consequences of sexting and relationship with the academic stress

Se presenta el caso de una estudiante de segundo año medicina, atendida en la Unidad de Orientación Estudiantil de la Facultad de Medicina No. 1 de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Santiago de Cuba, entre septiembre y diciembre de 2021, por presentar problemas académicos y manifestaciones de estrés debido a que fue víctima de acoso verbal y psicológico por parte de sus compañeros de grupo a partir de un acto de sexting por parte de su pareja. Teniendo en cuenta lo anterior se le dio seguimiento para un mejor estudio y se comparten los hallazgos con la comunidad científica en general.

The case of a second year medicine student is presented, assisted in the Student Orientation Unit of Medicine Faculty No. 1 in the University of Medical Sciences from Santiago de Cuba, between September and December, 2021, due to academic problems and stress manifestations because she was victim of verbal and psychological harassment by her groupmates as a result of an act of sexting by her couple. Taking into account the above-mentioned she was followed up for a better study and findings are shared with the scientific community in general.

Actividad insecticida de aceites esenciales sobre Blatella germanica (Linneaus, 1767) (Dictyoptera: Blattellidae) / nsecticidal activity of essential oils against Blatella germanica (Linneaus, 1767) (Dictyoptera: Blattellidae)

Blattella germanica (Linneaus, 1767) es una especie de cucaracha considerada plaga de la salud pública por estar asociada a gran número de microorganismos causantes de enfermedades al hombre. Para su control se utilizan diferentes tipos de formulaciones a base de insecticidas sintéticos a los cuales en su gran mayoría es resistente. En este contexto existe un interés creciente por los insecticidas botánicos. En el siguiente trabajo se evaluaron los aceites de Citrus aurantium (L.,1753), Ocimum basilicum (L.,1753), Piper aduncum subsp ossanum (C.DC. Saralegui) y Eucalyptus globulus (Labill, 1800) mediante aplicación tópica de un microlitro en el primer esternito abdominal de los individuos. Los cuatro aceites mostraron actividad insecticida sobre adultos de B. germanica con CL50 que oscilaron entre 58 µg/µL para O. basilicum y 250 µg/µL para P. aduncum(AU)´

Blattella germanica (Linneaus, 1767) is a cockroach species considered a public health pest, since it is associated with a great number of disease-causing microorganisms in humans. For its control, different types of synthetic-based insecticidal formulations are used, to which it is mostly resistant. In this context, there is a growing interest in botanical insecticides. In this research, oils from Citrus aurantium (L., 1753), Ocimum basilicum (L., 1753), Piper aduncum subsp. ossanum (C.DC. Saralegui), and Eucalyptus globulus (Labill, 1800) were evaluated by topical application of 1 µL to the first abdominal sternum of the individuals. The four essential oils evaluated showed insecticidal activity against adult B. germanica with LC50 ranging from 58µg/µL for O. basilicum to 250µg/µL for P. aduncum(AU)´

Efectos de la competencia larvaria intraespecífica de Aedes aegypti y Aedes albopictus en condiciones de laboratorio / Effects of intraspecific larval competence of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus under laboratory conditions

RESUMEN Introducción: Aedes aegypti y Aedes albopictus constituyen dos de las especies más importantes de mosquitos, debido a que son vectores primarios de enfermedades emergentes y reemergentes que representan una amenaza significativa para la salud pública. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de la competencia larvaria intraespecífica causada por baja y alta densidad de dos poblaciones de Ae. aegypti y Ae. albopictus sobre aspectos de su ciclo de vida en condiciones de laboratorio. Métodos: Se utilizaron dos poblaciones de mosquitos, Ae. aegypti y Ae. albopictus, ambas colectadas en estado de larva en el Reparto Juan de Dios Fraga, La Lisa, La Habana, Cuba. Se establecieron condiciones de baja (70 larvas) y alta densidad larvaria (140 larvas) en cada réplica para cada una de las especies. Se emplearon larvas desde el primer estadio, que se siguieron hasta la formación de los adultos. Se evaluaron las variables duración del ciclo larvario, supervivencia larvaria, así como talla y supervivencia de hembras adultas, respectivamente. Resultados: Se encontró que las variables evaluadas no se afectaron en condiciones de baja densidad larvaria. Sin embargo, el efecto de la relación larvaria intraespecífica bajo condiciones de alta densidad presentada en los hábitats de Ae. aegypti y Ae. albopictus tuvo un efecto negativo en cada una de las variables del ciclo de vida evaluadas. Conclusiones: Estas alteraciones observadas son importantes dentro de los componentes de la capacidad vectorial, con implicaciones en la epidemiología de las enfermedades transmitidas por estos mosquitos. Los resultados pudieran extrapolarse al comportamiento de estos mosquitos en su entorno natural. Estas condiciones podrían aumentar los patrones de transmisión del virus del dengue, así como un mayor riesgo de infección para la población humana.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus are two of the most important mosquito species, since they are the main vector of emerging and re-emerging diseases that represent a significant threat to public health. Objective: To evaluate the effect of intraspecific larval competence caused by low and high density in two populations of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus on aspects of their life cycles under laboratory conditions. Methods: Two mosquitos populations were used, Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus, both collected during their larval stage in Juan de Dios Fraga town, La Lisa, Havana, Cuba. Low (70 larvae) and high (140 larvae) density conditions were established in each replication for each species. Larvae from the first stage were used and follow-up was established until adults emerged. Variables such as: larval cycle duration, larval survival, and adult female size and survival were evaluated. Results: The variables evaluated were not affected under low larval density conditions. However, the intraspecific larval relationship under high density conditions in Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus habitats had a negative effect in each of the variables of the life cycles. Conclusions: The observed alterations are important within the components of vectorial capacity, with implications for the epidemiology of these mosquitos-borne diseases. The results could be extended to the behavior of these mosquitoes in their natural environment. These conditions could increase the transmission patterns of dengue virus and the risk of infection for the human population.

Estudio descriptivo de técnicas empleadas por terapeutas ocupacionales para el tratamiento de la heminegligencia visuoespacial / Descriptive study of techniques used by occupational therapists for the treatment of visuospatial hemineglect

Objetivos: recoger y analizar las técnicas que usan los terapeutas ocupacionales en el tratamiento de la heminegligencia, para posteriormente comprobar si en la práctica clínica se utilizan técnicas con evidencia científica. Métodos: la realización de este estudio se ha llevado a cabo a través de una encuesta, la cual se ha difundido desde varios Colegios Oficiales de Terapeutas Ocupacionales. Resultados: se obtuvieron 85 respuestas y la técnica que mejor resultado proporcionó en el tratamiento de la heminegligencia es Entrenamiento en Actividades de la Vida Diaria. Aunque esta técnica de buenos resultados en la práctica clínica no tiene una evidencia sólida. La técnica que más evidencia tiene actualmente en el tratamiento de la heminegligencia es la Adaptación de Prismas. Conclusiones: se necesita investigar más desde Terapia Ocupacional para basar nuestra práctica clínica en la evidencia científica y poder obtener buenos resultados en la rehabilitación de la heminegligencia visuoespacial. (AU)

Objective: to collect and analyse the techniques used by occupational therapists in the treatment of visuospatial hemineglect, in order to subsequently check whether techniques with scientific evidence are used in clinical practice. Methods: this study has been carried out by means of a survey, which has been disseminated by several Official Associations of Occupational Therapists. Results: 85 responses were obtained and the technique that provided the best results in the treatment of hemineglect is Training in Activities of Daily Living. Although this technique has good results in clinical practice, there is no solid evidence. The technique that currently has the most evidence in the treatment of hemineglect is Prism Adaptation. Conclusions: more research is needed from Occupational Therapy to base our clinical practice on scientific evidence and to obtain good results in the rehabilitation of visuospatial hemineglect. (AU)

Enseñanza y aprendizaje de la Biología Celular en la educación superior en contexto de virtualidad en la pandemia de COVID-19 / Teaching and learning of Cell Biology in higher education in the context of virtuality in the COVID-19 pandemic

El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar y comparar las estrategias de enseñanza aprendizaje implementadas en la enseñanza de la Biología Celular en la Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (UNC)-Argentina y en la Universidad de Granada (UGR)-España, con el fin de realizar revisión y ajuste curricular de la oferta académica en la Facultad de Odontolgia UNC y comparar las condiciones académicas de alumnos, en los ciclos lectivos 2020 y 2021, en ambas universidades. Las estrategias que se implementaron para continuar con los estudios superiores, de modalidad virtual, no son suficientes para que los alumnos comprendan y aprendan destrezas, conceptos y actitudes requeridas para los estudios universitarios. Si bien la modalidad híbrida, es decir el dictado de los conceptos teóricos en modalidad virtual y las prácticas de modalidad presencial, permitiría acceso a los estudios superiores a alumnos que tienen condiciones económicas desfavorables

Aportes científicos del Instituto de Medicina Tropical "Pedro Kouri" a la vigilancia de Aedes aegypti (Díptera: Culicidae) en Cuba, 1982-2020

RESUMEN Entre las enfermedades de mayor incidencia en el mundo transmitidas por los culícidos o mosquitos se encuentran las arbovirosis como dengue, chikungunya, zika y fiebre amarilla, las cuales el humano las adquiere a través de la picadura de Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) y Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894). Los programas de vigilancia entomológica de Ae. aegypti en el mundo tienen en común determinar cambios en la distribución geográfica del mosquito, obtener medidas relativas de sus poblaciones a lo largo del tiempo, evaluar la cobertura y el impacto de las intervenciones antivectoriales, así como monitorear la susceptibilidad y la resistencia de sus poblaciones a los principales insecticidas usados en el control vectorial. En este trabajo se resume los principales resultados de las investigaciones desarrolladas por el departamento de control de vectores del Instituto de Medicina Tropical ¨Pedro Kouri¨ (IPK) como Laboratorio Nacional de Referencia (LNR) para contribuir al fortalecimiento de la vigilancia entomológica de Ae. aegypti desde 1981 hasta el 2020. Con este artículo se destaca el trabajo realizado al cumplirse en el 2021, 40 años del inicio de la llamada campaña de erradicación de Ae. aegypti implementada a raíz de la epidemia de dengue hemorrágico (en la nueva clasificación denominada dengue severo) registrada en Cuba en 1981.

ABSTRACT Arbovirus infections such as dengue, chikungunya, zika and yellow fever are among the mosquito-borne diseases with the highest incidence worldwide. These conditions are transmitted by the bite of Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762) and Aedes albopictus (Skuse, 1894) mosquitoes. Common goals of entomological surveillance programs for Ae. aegypti in the world are to determine changes in the geographic distribution of the mosquito, obtain data concerning their populations throughout time, evaluate the coverage and impact of antivector interventions, and monitor the susceptibility and resistance of mosquito populations to the main insecticides used for vector control. The paper summarizes the main results of studies conducted from 1981 to 2020 by the Vector Control Department at Pedro Kourí Tropical Medicine Institute (IPK) as a National Reference Laboratory (NRL), to contribute to the strengthening of entomological surveillance of Ae. aegypti. Recognition is also made of the work done for forty years as part of the so-called Ae. aegypti eradication campaign implemented in response to the dengue hemorrhagic fever epidemic (severe dengue in the new classification) occurring in Cuba in 1981.

Rapid and Accurate Detection of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae Strains Susceptible/Resistant to Cotrimoxazole through Evaluation of Cell Elongation.

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is a well-known antibiotic that inhibits folic acid synthesis, a topic of renewed interest. Since resistant strains are increasingly more common, an early and accurate discrimination of susceptibility may assure confident therapy. Two morphological assays were performed in Escherichia coli (n = 50; 27 non-susceptible) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 52; 18 non-susceptible). First, the strains were incubated with the CLSI breakpoint of cotrimoxazole for 150 min, which induced cell lengthening in the susceptible strains. Second, the bacteria were incubated with mitomycin C (MMC) (0.5 mg/L) for 120 min to induce a SOS-linked cell enlargement higher than that obtained by cotrimoxazole alone. When cotrimoxazole was added 30 min before MMC, the inhibition of folic acid synthesis in the susceptible strain resulted in the suppression of MMC-induced extra elongation. In the non-susceptible strains, folic acid synthesis continued despite the antibiotic, so that the MMC-induced extra cell lengthening could not be impeded. Whereas the first assay resulted in five false negatives and four false positives of resistance, the results of the second assay matched those of the conventional antibiogram. This simple morphological procedure is performed in 2 h and 45 min and may allow a rapid selection of useful and relatively inexpensive therapy, thereby preserving the newer broad-spectrum antibiotics.

SARS-COV-2 Infection and Specific Antibody Detection on Health Care Workers from a Military Hospital in Madrid, Spain.

This study aims to assess the COVID-19 seroprevalence in HCW at the Hospital Central de la Defensa Gómez Ulla (HCDGU) (Madrid). From 27 April to 10 June 2020 nasopharyngeal swab and serum samples from employees were processed in order to evaluate their seroprevalence and infective situation. Employees were classified according to their exposure to SARS-CoV-2 infection as high, moderate, and low exposure groups (level 1, level 2, and level 3, respectively). A specific real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was run to diagnose each patient, whereas the qualitative detection of IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 was performed by means of an immunoassay. In total, 2781 HCW were screened. From this sample, 30 employees (1.1%) were infected with SARS-CoV-2 and 450 (16.2%) were positive to SARS-CoV-2-IgG antibodies. The seroprevalence was higher in the high exposure group.The seroprevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 among employees without any COVID-19 training was higher than in those who received COVID-19 training (14.5% vs 18.6%, P = 0.035). The seroprevalence in military and civilian personnel in level 1 was 18.2% and 20.0%, respectively (P = 0.4616), while in level 2 it was 6.0% and 16.0% (P = 0.0008) and in level 3 it was 16.7% and 10.2% (P = 0.0315). The results from the present study have shown that the high exposure group and HCW not receiving specific training against COVID-19 showed higher seroprevalence. Furthermore, the military employees from this hospital presented low percentage of seroprevalence.

Aplicación de propuestas para el perfeccionamiento de la atención en cirugía mayor ambulatoria y de corta estadía / Application of proposals for the ambulatory and short-stay major surgery improvement of care

RESUMEN Fundamento: se han evidenciado dificultades en la coordinación entre los niveles primario y secundario de salud en el proceso de atención a pacientes en la cirugía mayor ambulatoria y la cirugía de corta estadía. En respuesta a esta situación se diseñaron propuestas asistenciales (un modelo teórico-asistencial, un manual para la organización procedimental y un modelo de historia clínica) en etapas investigativas anteriores. Objetivo: evaluar la satisfacción y calidad percibida por pacientes y familiares con la aplicación de un modelo asistencial, un manual de procedimientos y un modelo de historia clínica para el perfeccionamiento asistencial en cirugía mayor ambulatoria y cirugía de corta estadía. Métodos: desde el 4 de enero de 2016 hasta el 28 de diciembre de 2017 se efectuó un estudio cuasi-experimental para evaluar la satisfacción y calidad percibida por pacientes sin experiencia en cirugía mayor ambulatoria o de corta estadía y un familiar acompañante en cada caso. Se aplicó un diseño con un grupo experimental y otro de control solo con post-prueba para pacientes y familiares. Los grupos experimentales estuvieron constituidos por 50 pacientes y 50 familiares respectivamente y los grupos de control por 67 pacientes y 67 familiares. La satisfacción y calidad percibida fueron evaluadas mediante escalas ascendentes de 1 hasta 5 puntos. Resultados: se obtuvieron niveles más favorables en la satisfacción y percepción de la calidad en los pacientes y familiares de los grupos experimentales. Conclusiones: la aplicación de las propuestas asistenciales contribuyó al logro de elevados niveles de satisfacción y calidad percibida en los usuarios.

ABSTRACT Background: difficulties have been evidenced in the coordination between the primary and secondary health levels in the process of caring for patients in major outpatient surgery and short-stay surgery. In answer to this situation, healthcare proposals (a theoretical-healthcare model, a manual for procedural organization and a clinical history model) were designed in previous research stages. Objective: to evaluate the satisfaction and quality perceived by patients and relatives with the application of a care model, a procedure manual and a clinical history model for major outpatient surgery and short-stay surgery improvement of care. Methods: from January the 4th, 2016 to December the 28th, 2017, a quasi-experimental study was carried out to evaluate the satisfaction and quality perceived by patients with no experience in major outpatient or short-stay surgery and a companion relative in each case. A design was applied with an experimental group and a control group only with post-test for patients and relatives. The experimental groups consisted of 50 patients and 50 relatives respectively and the control groups of 67 patients and 67 relatives. Satisfaction and perceived quality were evaluated using ascending scales from 1 to 5 points. Results: more favorable levels of satisfaction and perception of quality were obtained in patients and relatives of the experimental groups. Conclusions: the application of the healthcare proposals contributed to the achievement of high levels of satisfaction and perceived quality in the users.

[Assessment of nutritional-dietary status, body composition, eating behavior, and perceived image in rhythmic gymnastics athletes]. / Valoración del estado dietético-nutricional, la composición corporal, el comportamiento alimentario y la percepción de la imagen en deportistas de gimnasia rítmica.

INTRODUCTION: Introduction: among adolescent gymnasts some concern for body weight has been observed, with diets inadequate in energy and some nutrients in the search for maximum performance. Objective: the aim of this study was to evaluate the dietary-nutritional status, body composition, eating behavior, and perceived body image concerns of female gymnasts at sub-national competition levels. In addition, to study the relationship between the prevalence of the risk of eating disorders and variables such as substance use, irregular menstruation, fatigue, and hours of sleep. Materials and method: a total of 33 female subelite gymnasts participated (age: M = 14.52, SD = 1.85), with age ranging from 11 to 18 years. Anthropometric evaluations (restricted profile) were made, the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) and Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) were administered, and the subjects were then interviewed for collecting sociodemographic, socio-sports, health, and food intake data. Results: the results showed that their diet was deficient, among other micro- and macro-nutrients, in water, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins D and E, fiber, iron and calcium, whereas they ingested an excess of vitamin A and sodium. These athletes had normal weight, high muscle mass values, low fat mass levels, and intermediate somatotype components (balanced endomorph with a tendency to central). Two cases at risk for an eating disorder, and concerns related to perceived body image in a quarter of the sample were identified. Conclusion: the risk of having an eating disorder is related to the consumption of prohibited drugs or addictive substances, irregular menstruation, tiredness, and fewer hours of sleep.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Introducción: entre las gimnastas adolescentes se ha observado cierta preocupación por el peso, con dietas insuficientes en energía y algunos nutrientes en búsqueda del máximo rendimiento. Esta preocupación puede estar relacionada con trastornos de la conducta alimentaria, menstruación irregular, cansancio y descanso insuficiente. Objetivos: evaluar el estado diétético-nutricional, la composición corporal, el comportamiento alimentario y la preocupación por la imagen corporal de las gimnastas de competición. Métodos: estudio observacional y transveral en el que participaron 33 gimnastas femeninas (edad: M = 14,52, DT = 1,85), subélite, de entre 11 y 18 años de edad. Se realizaron valoraciones antropométricas, se les aplicó un test de actitudes alimentarias (EAT-26) y un cuestionario sobre la figura corporal (BSQ), y se las entrevistó, recogiéndose datos sociodemográficos, sociodeportivos, de salud y sobre la ingesta. Resultados: la dieta de las deportistas es principalmente deficitaria en agua, carbohidratos, proteínas, vitaminas D y E, fibra, hierro y calcio, con sobreingesta de vitamina A y sodio. Las deportistas presentan normopeso y valores altos de masa muscular, bajos de masa grasa y medios de los componentes del somatotipo (endomorfo equilibrado con tendencia a central). Se detectaron dos casos de riesgo de trastorno de la conducta alimentaria (TCA) y preocupación por la imagen corporal percibida en un cuarto de la muestra. Conclusiones: el riesgo de padecer un TCA se relaciona con el consumo de fármacos prohibidos o sustancias adictivas, la menstruación irregular, el cansancio y dormir menos horas.

Down-regulation of COX-2 activity by 1α,25(OH)2D3 is VDR dependent in endothelial cells transformed by Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus G protein-coupled receptor.

Our previous reports showed that 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1α,25(OH)2D3) has antiproliferative actions in endothelial cells stably expressing viral G protein-coupled receptor (vGPCR) associated with the pathogenesis of Kaposi's sarcoma. It has been reported that COX-2 enzyme, involved in the tumorigenesis of many types of cancers, is induced by vGPCR. Therefore, we investigated whether COX-2 down-regulation is part of the growth inhibitory effects of 1α,25(OH)2D3. Proliferation was measured in presence of COX-2 inhibitor Celecoxib (10-20 µM) revealing a decreased in vGPCR cell number, displaying typically apoptotic features in a dose dependent manner similarly to 1α,25(OH)2D3. In addition, the reduced cell viability observed with 20 µM Celecoxib was enhanced in presence of 1α,25(OH)2D3. Remarkably, although COX-2 mRNA and protein levels were up-regulated after 1α,25(OH)2D3 treatment, COX-2 enzymatic activity was reduced in a VDR-dependent manner. Furthermore, an interaction between COX-2 and VDR was revealed through GST pull-down and computational analysis. Additionally, high-affinity prostanoid receptors (EP3 and EP4) were found down-regulated by 1α,25(OH)2D3. Altogether, these results suggest a down-regulation of COX-2 activity and of prostanoid receptors as part of the antineoplastic mechanism of 1α,25(OH)2D3 in endothelial cells transformed by vGPCR.

Riqueza de mosquitos en La Habana: su importancia para fomentar la participación comunitaria en su control / Species mosquito richness in Havana: its importance to promote community participation in its control

Introducción: La identificación de las especies de mosquitos a nivel de cada municipio forma parte del Programa de Vigilancia y Control de Aedes aegypti y Aedes albopictus vigente en Cuba. Objetivo: Identificar las especies de mosquitos en sitios de crías artificiales y naturales y relacionarlo con el papel de la comunidad en el control de sus poblaciones en la provincia La Habana. Métodos: Se identificaron las muestras larvarias de mosquitos enviadas al laboratorio provincial de Entomología, colectadas en depósitos artificiales y en sitios naturales en los municipios de La Habana desde enero del 2000 hasta el 2016. Resultados: En el estudio se identificaron un total de 48 especies de mosquitos. Aedes aegypti, Gymnometopa mediovittata, Culex quinquefasciatus y Culex nigripalpus, estuvieron presentes en todos los municipios de La Habana. Los depósitos abandonados en los alrededores de las viviendas y terrenos baldíos como: latas, bebederos, chatarra metálica, neumáticos de autos usados, entre otros, relacionados con actividades humanas, aportaron la mayor riqueza de especies al ecosistema urbano, seguido por los huecos de árboles y sitios de cría naturales. Los depósitos artificiales de almacenamiento de agua con fines domésticos en las viviendas, tales como: tanques, cisternas, cubos, entre otros, fueron los de menor riqueza, pero fundamentales para la presencia de Ae. aegypti. Conclusiones: Disponer de datos actualizados sobre la distribución de las especies de mosquitos y sus sitios de cría en La Habana constituyen una información valiosa para fomentar la participación de la comunidad en la eliminación de estos en momentos de epidemias en que se involucren estos vectores(AU)

Introduction: Identification of the mosquito species present in each municipality is part of the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus Surveillance and Control Program currently in place in Cuba. Objective: Identify the mosquito species in artificial and natural breeding sites and relate that information to the role played by the community in the control of their populations in the province of Havana. Methods: Identification was performed of mosquito larval samples submitted to the Provincial Entomology Laboratory and collected from artificial containers and natural breeding sites in Havana municipalities from January 2000 to 2016. Results: A total 48 mosquito species were identified in the study. Aedes aegypti, Gymnometopa mediovittata, Culex quinquefasciatus and Culex nigripalpus were found to be present in all Havana municipalities. Unused containers scattered around households and in uncultivated fields, such as cans, troughs, scrap metal and used car tires, among other items related to human activities, contribute the greatest species richness to the urban ecosystem, followed by tree holes and natural breeding sites. Artificial water storage containers in households, such as elevated and underground water tanks and buckets, among others, contributed lesser richness, but were fundamental for the presence of A. aegypti. Conclusions: Updated data about the distribution of mosquito species and their breeding sites in Havana is valuable information to foster community participation in their elimination in the event of epidemics involving these vectors(AU)

Avoidance behaviour of the shrimp Palaemon varians regarding a contaminant gradient of galaxolide and tonalide in seawater.

The musk fragrances galaxolide (HHCB) and tonalide (AHTN) are compounds of emerging concern that have been found in various environmental compartments. The present study addressed the ability of HHCB and AHTN to elicit the avoidance response in the estuarine shrimp Palaemon varians and to predict the population immediate decline (PID) of P. varians when exposed to HHCB and AHTN by integrating both avoidance (non-forced exposure) and lethality (forced exposure) responses. The avoidance response was tested in a non-forced multi-compartmented static system, in which the shrimps could move freely among the compartments with different concentrations. The shrimps (n = 3 shrimps per compartment/concentration; 18 shrimps per system) were exposed to a gradient (0, 0.005, 0.05, 0.5, 5 and 50 µg/L) of both substances and their positions were checked at every 20 min for a 3 h period. The results from 24-h forced exposure showed no dose-response relationship and the highest percentage mortality was 17% for HHCB at 0.005 and 0.5 µg/L. In the 3-h non-forced exposure to a gradient of HHCB and AHTN, significant concentration-dependent spatial avoidance was observed for both substances. The shrimps avoided the lowest concentration of HHCB and AHTN (0.005 µg/L) by 15% and 16%. The avoidance increased significantly (p < 0.005) to a 61% and 57%, respectively, for the highest concentration (50 µg/L). The population immediate decline was driven by the avoidance behaviour of the shrimps rather than mortality. These results indicated that the aversiveness of HHCB and AHTN might have serious consequences for habitat selection processes by organisms.

Perfil microbiológico en servicio de Neonatología / Microbiological profile in the Neonatology service

RESUMEN Se realizó este estudio en el servicio de Neonatología del Hospital Universitario Pediátrico José Luis Miranda, de Santa Clara, en el período de junio 2015 - mayo 2016. Se analizaron los aislamientos de microorganismos en los cultivos realizados a los neonatos hospitalizados, con el objetivo de investigar la prevalencia y sensibilidad de estos gérmenes. Se confirmaron 69 aislamientos, en los cuales predominaron los gérmenes grampositivos; el estafilococo prevaleció de forma significativa y ofreció resistencia creciente a cefazolina. Dentro de los gramnegativos, la escherichia coli resultó el microorganismo con mayor aislamiento, mientras que el acinetobacter se comportó resistente a las cefalosporinas.

ABSTRACT A study was carried out in the Neonatology service at "José Luis Miranda" Pediatric University Hospital, in Santa Clara, from June, 2015 to May, 2016. The isolations of microorganisms in the cultures performed on hospitalized neonates were analyzed with the aim of investigating the prevalence and sensitivity of these germs. Sixty-nine isolates were confirmed, in which the gram-positive ones predominated; staphylococcus prevailed significantly and offered a high resistance to cefazolin. Escherichia coli was the microorganism with the highest isolation among the gram-negative bacteria, while acinetobacter exhibited resistant to cephalosporins.

Aplicación de un modelo asistencial para perfeccionar la atención en cirugía mayor ambulatoria y en la de corta estadía / Application of an assisting model to improve care in ambulatory major surgery and short stay

RESUMEN Fundamento: Se han evidenciado dificultades en la coordinación entre los niveles primario y secundario de salud en el proceso de atención a pacientes en la cirugía mayor ambulatoria y la cirugía de corta estadía. Objetivo: evaluar la satisfacción y calidad percibida por pacientes y familiares con la aplicación de un modelo asistencial, una guía de procedimientos y un modelo de historia clínica para el perfeccionamiento asistencial en la cirugía mayor ambulatoria y la cirugía de corta estadía. Métodos: se efectuó un estudio cuasi-experimental para evaluar la satisfacción y calidad percibida por pacientes con experiencia en cirugía mayor electiva ambulatoria o de corta estadía, y por sus familiares. El grupo experimental quedó conformado por 22 pacientes y 22 familiares, y el de control por 28 pacientes y 28 familiares. La satisfacción fue evaluada mediante una escala Likert. Para las comparaciones entre los grupos experimental y de control, se aplicó la Dócima U de Mann-Whitney para dos muestras independientes. Resultados: existió correspondencia entre ambos grupos de pacientes, el experimental y el control, con un comportamiento similar entre la satisfacción y los indicadores de calidad percibida. En los pacientes del grupo experimental, la satisfacción y los indicadores de calidad percibidos mostraron mejores resultados en la postprueba, con excepción del indicador accesibilidad. Conclusión: la aplicación de las propuestas asistenciales contribuyó al logro de elevados niveles de satisfacción y calidad percibida en pacientes y familiares.

ABSTRACT Foundation: Difficulties have been evidenced in the coordination between primary and secondary health levels in the process of patient care in ambulatory major surgery and short stay surgery. Objective: to evaluate the satisfaction and quality perceived by patients and family members with the application of an assisting model, a procedure guide and a clinical history model for care improvement in ambulatory major surgery and short stay surgery. Methods: a quasi-experimental study was conducted to evaluate the satisfaction and perceived quality of patients with their experience in ambulatory or short-stay elective major surgery, and by their relatives. The experimental group was constituted of 22 patients and 22 relatives, and the control group was composed of 28 patients and 28 relatives. Satisfaction was assessed using a Likert scale. The Mann-Whitney U-score was applied for comparisons between the experimental and control groups and for two independent samples. Results: there was correspondence between both groups of patients, experimental and control, with a similar behavior between satisfaction and indicators of perceived quality. In the patients of the experimental group, satisfaction and perceived quality indicators showed better results in the post-test, with the exception of the indicator accessibility. Conclusion: the application of assisting proposals contributed to the achievement of high levels of satisfaction and perceived quality in patients and relatives.