RNAdvisor: a comprehensive benchmarking tool for the measure and prediction of RNA structural model quality.

RNA is a complex macromolecule that plays central roles in the cell. While it is well known that its structure is directly related to its functions, understanding and predicting RNA structures is challenging. Assessing the real or predictive quality of a structure is also at stake with the complex 3D possible conformations of RNAs. Metrics have been developed to measure model quality while scoring functions aim at assigning quality to guide the discrimination of structures without a known and solved reference. Throughout the years, many metrics and scoring functions have been developed, and no unique assessment is used nowadays. Each developed assessment method has its specificity and might be complementary to understanding structure quality. Therefore, to evaluate RNA 3D structure predictions, it would be important to calculate different metrics and/or scoring functions. For this purpose, we developed RNAdvisor, a comprehensive automated software that integrates and enhances the accessibility of existing metrics and scoring functions. In this paper, we present our RNAdvisor tool, as well as state-of-the-art existing metrics, scoring functions and a set of benchmarks we conducted for evaluating them. Source code is freely available on the EvryRNA platform: https://evryrna.ibisc.univ-evry.fr.

Family management structural model for children with atopic dermatitis.

PURPOSE: To construct a structural model of family management for children with atopic dermatitis. DESIGN AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Participants included primary caregivers of children aged 2-12 years who had received a medical diagnosis of atopic dermatitis and had been experiencing the condition for over three months. We used SPSS/WIN 26.0 to analyze the variables and AMOS 23.0 for structural equation modeling. RESULTS: Family functioning resilience, social support, and family coping had significant direct effects on family management. Illness severity, illness duration, and family life difficulty indirectly influenced family management, demonstrating significant total effects. The severity and duration of atopic dermatitis, family life difficulty, family functioning resilience, social support, and family coping explained 78.9% of the model. CONCLUSIONS: The final model was suitable for predicting family management for children with atopic dermatitis. By confirming mediating effects, this study contributes to enhancing family management through nursing interventions. These findings offer valuable insights for developing family-centered nursing strategies to improve family management for children with atopic dermatitis. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Nursing interventions targeting the alleviation of family management challenges and enhancement of family functioning resilience, social support, and family coping are pivotal for improving the well-being of children with atopic dermatitis. Furthermore, tailored intervention development must take into account not only the severity and illness duration of atopic dermatitis in children but also the characteristics of the family. Improving family nursing through such tailored interventions can help enhance children's health and quality of life.

Barriers and Implications of 5G Technology Adoption for Hospitals in Western China: Integrated Interpretive Structural Modeling and Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory Analysis.

BACKGROUND: 5G technology is gaining traction in Chinese hospitals for its potential to enhance patient care and internal management. However, various barriers hinder its implementation in clinical settings, and studies on their relevance and importance are scarce. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to identify critical barriers hampering the effective implementation of 5G in hospitals in Western China, to identify interaction relationships and priorities of the above-identified barriers, and to assess the intensity of the relationships and cause-and-effect relations between the adoption barriers. METHODS: This paper uses the Delphi expert consultation method to determine key barriers to 5G adoption in Western China hospitals, the interpretive structural modeling to uncover interaction relationships and priorities, and the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory method to reveal cause-and-effect relationships and their intensity levels. RESULTS: In total, 14 barriers were determined by literature review and the Delphi method. Among these, "lack of policies on ethics, rights, and responsibilities in core health care scenarios" emerged as the fundamental influencing factor in the entire system, as it was the only factor at the bottom level of the interpretive structural model. Overall, 8 barriers were classified as the "cause group," and 6 as the "effect group" by the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory method. "High expense" and "organizational barriers within hospitals" were determined as the most significant driving barrier (the highest R-C value of 1.361) and the most critical barrier (the highest R+C value of 4.317), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Promoting the integration of 5G in hospitals in Western China faces multiple complex and interrelated barriers. The study provides valuable quantitative evidence and a comprehensive approach for regulatory authorities, hospitals, and telecom operators, helping them develop strategic pathways for promoting widespread 5G adoption in health care. It is suggested that the stakeholders cooperate to explore and solve the problems in the 5G medical care era, aiming to achieve the coverage of 5G medical care across the country. To our best knowledge, this study is the first academic exploration systematically analyzing factors resisting 5G integration in Chinese hospitals, and it may give subsequent researchers a solid foundation for further studying the application and development of 5G in health care.

Exploring the effect of the structural model of active aging on the self-assessment of quality of life among older people: A cross-sectional and analytical study.

BACKGROUND: Although studies have examined the relationship between variables associated with active aging and quality of life (QoL), no studies have been identified to have investigated the effect of a structural model of active aging on QoL in a representative sample of older people in the community. OBJECTIVE: To measure the domains and facets of QoL in older people and identify the effect of the structural model of active aging on the self-assessment of QoL. DESIGN AND SETTING: This cross-sectional analytical study included 957 older people living in urban areas. Data were collected from households using validated instruments between March and June 2018. Descriptive, confirmatory factor, and structural equation modeling analyses were performed. RESULTS: Most older people self-rated their QoL as good (58.7%), and the highest mean scores were for the social relationships domain (70.12 ± 15.4) and the death and dying facet (75.43 ± 26.7). In contrast, the lowest mean scores were for the physical domains (64.41 ± 17.1) and social participation (67.20 ± 16.2) facets. It was found that active aging explained 50% of the variation in self-assessed QoL and directly and positively affected this outcome (λ = 0.70; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Active aging had a direct and positive effect on the self-assessment of QoL, indicating that the more individuals actively aged, the better the self-assessment of QoL.

Structural models of genome-wide covariance identify multiple common dimensions in autism.

Common genetic variation has been associated with multiple phenotypic features in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, our knowledge of shared genetic factor structures contributing to this highly heterogeneous phenotypic spectrum is limited. Here, we developed and implemented a structural equation modelling framework to directly model genomic covariance across core and non-core ASD phenotypes, studying autistic individuals of European descent with a case-only design. We identified three independent genetic factors most strongly linked to language performance, behaviour and developmental motor delay, respectively, studying an autism community sample (N = 5331). The three-factorial structure was largely confirmed in independent ASD-simplex families (N = 1946), although we uncovered, in addition, simplex-specific genetic overlap between behaviour and language phenotypes. Multivariate models across cohorts revealed novel associations, including links between language and early mastering of self-feeding. Thus, the common genetic architecture in ASD is multi-dimensional with overarching genetic factors contributing, in combination with ascertainment-specific patterns, to phenotypic heterogeneity.

A structural model of EFL teachers' physical activity, emotion regulation, and competence for online teaching.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a rapid shift to online teaching, placing unprecedented demands on educators' physical and mental well-being. However, the relationship between English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers' physical activity, emotion regulation, and competence for online teaching remains underexplored. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the interplay between EFL teachers' physical activity, emotion regulation strategies, and competence for online teaching. RESULTS: Structural equation modeling revealed significant direct and indirect effects, indicating that physical activity positively influences emotion regulation, which, in turn, enhances teachers' competence for online instruction. Furthermore, emotion regulation was found to mediate the relationship between physical activity and online teaching competence. CONCLUSIONS: These findings underscore the importance of promoting physical activity among EFL teachers as a means to enhance their emotion regulation skills and competence for online teaching, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. IMPLICATIONS: The study highlights the need for targeted interventions aimed at supporting EFL teachers' well-being and professional development, with implications for educational policies, teacher training programs, and institutional support structures in the digital learning landscape.

A delimitação da escuta psicanalítica com referências a Aristófanes / Determination of psychoanalytic listening based on Aristophanes / La Delimitación de la escucha psicoanalítica con referencias a Aristófanes

Apresentamos, neste texto, alguns elementos específicos da escuta psicanalítica para caracterizar, segundo modelo estrutural, sua posição a respeito da linguagem. Considerando indicações técnicas em diferentes momentos da obra de Freud e também os aportes de Lacan, descrevemos aspectos fundamentais da escuta clínica, assim como seus princípios linguísticos norteadores. Observamos a importância da reserva do analista - a abstinência de críticas -, avaliamos o papel da temporalidade no uso da língua e as duas figuras retóricas que são representantes fundamentais operadoras do psiquismo. Após esta delimitação, situamos a perspectiva da escuta numa dimensão histórica a partir da qual interrogamos o lugar do saber na maiêutica socrática segundo texto Teeteto de Platão. Posteriormente, abordamos aspectos antigos da escuta a partir das descrições feitas na comédia de Aristófanes, o que nos permite comprovar que elementos fundamentais da maiêutica ainda estão presentes na escuta clínica contemporânea, operando no discurso do analista, como um fator sincrônico possibilitado pela linguagem...(AU)

This text presents some specific elements of psychoanalytic listening to characterize its position regarding the language according to the structural model. Considering the technical indications at different moments in Freud's work and in Lacan's contributions, we describe the fundamental aspects of clinical listening, as well as its guiding linguistic principles. We observe the importance of the analyst's reserve ─ the abstinence of criticism ─ and evaluated the role of temporality in the use of language and the two rhetorical figures that are fundamental representatives of psychism. After having established this, we situate the perspective of listening in a historical dimension from which we question the role of knowledge in the Socratic maieutic method according to Plato's Theaetetus text. We then approach old aspects of listening based on descriptions made in Aristophanes' comedy, which allowed to prove how fundamental elements of maieutics are still present in contemporary clinical listening, operating in the discourse of the analyst as a synchronic factor that was made possible by language...(AU)

En este texto mostramos algunos elementos específicos de la escucha psicoanalítica para caracterizar, según el modelo estructural, su posición respecto al lenguaje. Considerando las indicaciones técnicas en diferentes momentos de la obra de Freud, y también los aportes de Lacan, describimos sus aspectos fundamentales, destacando la importancia de la reserva del analista y los principios lingüísticos orientadores de la escucha. Observamos la importancia de la reserva del analista - la abstinencia de críticas -, evaluamos el papel de la temporalidad en el uso del lenguaje y las dos figuras retóricas que son representantes fundamentales operadoras del psiquismo. Hecha esta delimitación, situamos la perspectiva de la escucha en una dimensión histórica y desde ella interrogamos el lugar del saber en la mayéutica socrática según la obra Teeteto de Platón. Posteriormente, abordamos los aspectos antiguos de la escucha a partir de las descripciones hechas en la comedia de Aristófanes, lo que nos permite comprobar qué elementos fundamentales de la mayéutica aún están presentes en la escucha clínica contemporánea, operando en el discurso del analista como un factor sincrónico del lenguaje...(AU)

Métodos actuales para asegurar la validez de los estudios de causalidad en Medicina / Current methods to assure the validity of the causality studies in Medicine

RESUMEN Fundamento: Los estudios de causalidad deben aportar resultados certeros, lo cual depende de la adecuación de los mismos, de ahí la necesidad de conocer los métodos que aseguren la validez de estas investigaciones. Objetivo: Sistematizar los métodos actuales para el estudio de causalidad en Medicina que incluye el diseño, los requerimientos que aseguran su validez y los métodos para el cumplimiento de estos requerimientos. Desarrollo: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica en bases de datos biomédicas, se seleccionó la literatura de mayor actualidad, integralidad y cientificidad con la cual se organizó una síntesis crítica, a la que se le agregó la experiencia de las autoras. Se presentan técnicas para la detección y tratamiento de la confusión y la interacción y para garantizar la comparabilidad entre grupos. Entre las técnicas se destacan la aleatorización mendeliana, el puntaje de susceptibilidad, los G-métodos, los modelos estructurales marginales y anidados, la lógica difusa y el análisis estadístico implicativo. Conclusiones: A pesar del avance en los métodos estadísticos es el investigador el encargado de garantizar la no confusión residual y discernir entre lo estadísticamente significativo y lo clínicamente aceptable.

ABSTRACT Background: Causality studies must provide accurate results, which depends on their adequacy, therefore the need of knowing the methods that ensure the validity of these investigations. Objective: To systematize the current methods for the study of causality in Medicine that includes the design, the requirements that ensure its validity and the methods for complying with these requirements. Development: It was carried out a bibliographic review in biomedical databases and selected the most current, comprehensive, scientific literature, with this, a critical synthesis was organized, with the experience of the authors. Techniques for the detection and treatment of confusion and interaction were presented, also to ensure comparability between groups. Among the techniques, Mendelian randomization, susceptibility score, G-methods, marginal and nested structural models, fuzzy logic and implicative statistical analysis stand out. Conclusions: Despite the progress in statistical methods, the researcher is responsible for guaranteeing residual non-confusion and distinguishing between statistically significant and clinically acceptable.

Contrastación de un modelo confirmatorio para el estudio del acoso laboral en climas y redes profesionales de servicios públicos de salud / Contrasting a confirmatory model for the study of workplace harassment in public health professional networks and environments

A menudo, el acoso laboral ha sido observado como parte de un proceso de violencia al interior de las organizaciones que se internaliza en ellas hasta formar perpetradores y víctimas, pero desde la óptica del clima y la red formativa laboral el presente trabajo se propuso especificar un modelo con la finalidad de estudiar el fenómeno en comento en instituciones de salud pública de alta especialidad y dedicadas a la creación del conocimiento, ya que en éstas prevalecen asimetrías entre investigadores y asistentes, así como por su condición de género o área de especialización. De este modo, se llevó a cabo un estudio no experimental con una selección no probabilística de 218 empleados de una institución de salud pública en el centro de México. A partir de un modelo estructural fue posible apreciar que, ante las consecuencias somáticas del acoso laboral, la intervención de la organización fue determinante para su reducción, aunque el porcentaje de la varianza total explicada sugiere la inclusión de otros factores en el modelo, se recomienda una línea de investigación relativa a la formación de redes institucionales para la prevención o atención inmediata de la problemática(AU)

From an organizational climate and workplace training network perspective, this study proposes a model for the purpose of studying workplace harassment in highly specialized public health institutions dedicated to the generation of knowledge because, in these settings, there are asymmetries between researchers and their staff, as well as by gender and area of expertise. We conducted a non-experimental study in a convenience sample of 218 employees at a public health institution in central Mexico. Based on a structural model, we found that, in the presence of somatic consequences of workplace harassment, organizational interventions were decisive in reducing this form of workplace violence, although the percentage of the total variance explained by the model suggests there are other factors playing a role as well To prevent or immediately respond to workplace harassment, we recommend future research that examines the role of institutional networks in relation to this problem(AU)

Encuesta BIARE 2012: Análisis del bienestar subjetivo de los mexicanos y modelamiento estructural / BIARE survey 2012: subjective analysis related to mexican people well-being and structural modeling

Resumen Objetivo: El bienestar de una sociedad es un constructo considerado como multidimensional (componentes objetivos y subjetivos). La encuesta nacional de Bienestar Autorreportado (BIARE) se diseñó para evaluar el bienestar de la población mexicana. No obstante, no se ha explorado la estructura y relación que tienen los módulos (sub-escalas) para explicar el bienestar de los mexicanos. Así, el objetivo del estudio es explorar la estructura y relación que tienen los módulos en la encuesta BIARE, 2012 (Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía [INEGI], 2012) mediante modelamiento estructural. Método: Se realizó análisis de datos secundarios de la base BIARE, la cual es aleatoria y representativa a nivel nacional. Participaron 10.654 ciudadanos con un rango de edad entre 18 y 70 años; 5.967 eran mujeres y 4.687 hombres. Resultados: Se encontraron tres modelos. En un primer modelo se concibió la variable latente Bienestar general asociada con variables empíricas Solvencia, Felicidad, Satisfacción y Autodeterminación. En un segundo modelo se proponen dos variables latentes: 1) Bienestar percibido, asociada a tres variables empíricas; a) Satisfacción con la vida, b) Autodeterminación y c) Felicidad; 2) Socio-cultura, relacionada también con tres variables empíricas: a) Altruismo, b) Cultivado y c) Relaciones virtuales. Un tercer modelo de trayectorias para variables latentes mostró ajustes satisfactorios que explican relaciones entre la variable Felicidad con Solvencia, Satisfacción y Autodeterminación, consecutivamente. Conclusiones: La información que se puede obtener del cuestionario BIARE es relevante para evaluar la percepción de los ciudadanos y el entorno inmediato, como la familia. Pero no permite una evaluación precisa sobre la contribución de los factores meso y macro-sociales en el bienestar de los mexicanos. Es necesario que BIARE integre un modelo multidimensional de bienestar.

Abstract Objective: The National Self-Reported Well-being Survey (BIARE) was designed to assess well-being in mexican population, considering well-being of a society as a multidimensional construct (objective and subjective components). However, the structure and relationship between modules (sub-scales) to explain mexican well-being has not been explored yet. Thus, this study aims to explore the structure and relationship among those sub-scales based on the BIARE survey 2012 (INEGI, 2012) through structural modeling. Method: BIARE, Secondary data analysis, which is random and representative of Mexican people was conducted; 10.654 citizens, who were between 18 and 70 years were sampled; 5.967 women and 4.687 men. Results: As a result, three models were found. In a first model, the latent variable related to general well-being associated with empirical variables such as: solvency, happiness, satisfaction and self-determination were considered. In a second model, two latent variables are proposed: 1) Perceived well-being, associated with three empirical variables as follows: a) life Satisfaction b) Self-determination and c) Happiness; 2) Socioculture, also related to three empirical variables, which are: a) Selflessness, b) Cultivated relationships and c) Virtual relationships. A third model of trajectories for latent variables showed adjustments that explain relations among variable Happiness with Solvency, Satisfaction and Self-determination. Conclusions: The information that can be obtained from BIARE questionnaire is relevant to evaluate citizens´s perception and immediate environment, like family. But it does not allow for an accurate assessment about contribution of meso and macro-social factors on mexican´s well-being. It is necessary that BIARE integrate a multidimensional model of well-being.

Variation in the structure of the ichthyoplankton community in the lower Paraíba do Sul River

The Paraíba do Sul River is affected by extensive water collection for supply, organic and industrial pollution, and dams. Nonetheless, the ichthyofauna maintains biodiversity and sustains artisanal fisheries. This study analyzes the composition, abundance and distribution of fish larvae, an important approach to determine the reproductive period and spawning sites. The sampling occurred from August 2011 through February 2013 in five sites at a transect between the banks on the lower reach of the Paraíba do Sul River. A total of 5,412 larvae belonging to 20 taxa was captured. The predominant order was Characiformes. Larvae of Prochilodus spp. and Leporinus spp. were the most abundant; larvae of Brycon insignis, an endangered species, were present. Fewer larvae were collected in the second reproductive cycle during a severe drought. The absence of eggs indicates that the study area is not used for spawning, and highlights the need for studies in the main channel and in the tributaries of the Paraíba do Sul River. Fish larvae need to have access to the marginal lagoons along the lower stretch of the river, an area which is the object of disputes between fishermen and farmers.(AU)

O rio Paraíba do Sul é afetado por retirada de água para abastecimento, poluição orgânica e industrial e barramentos, mas mantém a biodiversidade de peixes e sustenta a pesca artesanal. Este estudo apresenta a composição, abundância e distribuição de larvas de peixes, abordagem importante para determinar o período de reprodução e locais de desova. A amostragem ocorreu entre agosto de 2011 e fevereiro de 2013 em cinco pontos de um transecto de 500 m entre as margens no trecho inferior do rio Paraíba do Sul. Um total de 5.412 larvas de 20 táxons foi capturado. Predominaram Characiformes, sendo que larvas de Prochilodus spp. e Leporinus spp. foram as mais abundantes. Larvas de Brycon insignis, espécie em extinção, foram registradas. Larvas foram menos abundantes no segundo ciclo reprodutivo, coincidindo com o início de uma seca severa na região. A ausência de ovos nas amostras indica que a área estudada não é utilizada para desova e aponta a necessidade de estudos no canal principal a montante e nos afluentes. Ressaltamos a necessidade de acesso das larvas às lagoas marginais no trecho inferior do rio Paraíba do Sul, área objeto de desentendimentos entre pescadores e agricultores.(AU)

Modelos de ecuaciones estructurales: Características, fases, construcción, aplicación y resultados / Structural equation modeling: Features, phases, construction, implementation and results

Se exponen las características y fases de los modelos de ecuaciones estructurales, así como las etapas de construcción, siendo estas la especificación, identificación, estimación de parámetros, evaluación del ajuste, reespecificación del modelo y la interpretación de resultados. Se presenta el análisis factorial exploratorio y confirmatorio como parte para la construcción de un modelo. Se detallan algunos paquetes computacionales como el LISREL, AMOS y SPSS. A modo de ejemplificar los modelos de ecuaciones estructurales, se realiza un estudio en la población docente de tiempo completo del departamento de ingeniería Industrial y Manufactura de una universidad pública de Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México. Se estudia el impacto de los factores socioculturales y ergoambientales en la satisfacción laboral, obteniendo un modelo resultante en el que se detallan las variables más y menos significativas. No se rechazan las cuatro hipótesis cuyos valores son 0,06, 0,06, 0,071, 0,074, respectivamente.

The characteristics and phases of structural equation modeling and construction phases, and these are the specification, identification, parameter estimation, assessment of adjustment, re-specification of the model and the interpretation of results are shown. The exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis as part for the construction of a model is presented. Some software packages like LISREL, AMOS and SPSS are detailed. By way of illustrating the structural equation modeling, a study was performed on the population of full-time faculty of the Department of Industrial Engineering and Manufacturing of a public university in Ciudad juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico. The impact of sociocultural and ergoambientales factors in getting a job satisfaction resulting model in which more and less significant variables detailed studied. The four scenarios whose values are 0,06, 0,06, 0,071, 0,074 respectively can not refuse.

Complejidad estructural de los manglares de Playa Blanca, Escondido y Rincón de Osa, Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica / Structural complexity of mangroves in Playa Blanca, Escondido and Rincón de Osa, Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica

Resumen Este estudio reporta las características estructurales y distribución de las especies en los bosques de mangle de Playa Blanca, Escondido y Rincón en Golfo Dulce, Pacífico Sur de Costa Rica. Se realizaron múltiples transectos en cada uno de los manglares. Cada 10m a lo largo de cada transecto se delimitaron parcelas cuadradas de 5x5m. En cada parcela se midió el diámetro a la altura del pecho y altura de los árboles de mangle y se tomaron muestras de sedimento y de agua intersticial (salinidad). Se determinó la densidad total y por especie para cada manglar, el área basal y valor de importancia por especie y la complejidad general entre los manglares. Las especies dominantes en los tres manglares estudiados fueron Rhizophora racemosa y Pelliciera rhizophorae. Los manglares de Playa Blanca y Rincón presentaron mayor similitud en la estructura del bosque entre sí que con el manglar de Escondido. Playa Blanca fue el bosque de mayor altura del dosel y menor densidad; mientras que Escondido presentó mayor densidad y menor altura, así como el menor número de especies y el único donde se encontró la especie Conocarpus erectus. La composición de especies presente en estos manglares coincide con la reportada para la región. Sin embargo, la variación en estructura y complejidad entre los tres manglares es mayor a las similitudes con otros de la región. El estudio histórico y topográfico de estos manglares puede aclarar las variaciones en estructura y complejidad encontrada actualmente entre ellos.

Abstract This study reports the structural characteristics and distribution of species in the mangrove forests of Playa Blanca, Escondido and Rincón de Osa in Golfo Dulce, South Pacific of Costa Rica. Multiple lineal transects were carried out at each of the mangrove forests. Every 10 meters along each transect the diameter at breast height, basal area, and height was determined for all mangrove trees within a 5x5meter square plot. Sediment and interstitial water (salinity) samples were also collected at each plot. Total density of the stand was determined, as were the density of each mangrove species, the importance value and basal area per species, and general complexity indices for each mangrove forest. The dominant species at all three mangroves were Rhizophora racemosa and Pelliciera rhizophorae. Forest structure was more similar between Playa Blanca and Rincón mangroves than with Escondido. Playa Blanca was the forest with the tallest canopy height and lowest density, while Escondido had the highest density and the shortest canopy height. Escondido was also the forest with the least number of species and the only one where Conocarpus erectus was present. Species composition and dominance at these mangroves coincides with that reported for the region. However, the variation in structure and complexity among the three mangroves is greater than the commonalities with mangroves in the region. Topographical and historical analysis of these mangroves could further elucidate the present structure and complexity variation among them. Rev. Biol. Trop. 63 (Suppl. 1): 199-208. Epub 2015 April 01.

Metacognitive awareness inventory: tradução e validação a partir de uma análise fatorial confirmatória / Metacognitive awareness inventory: translation and validation from a confirmatory analysis / Metacognitive awareness inventory: traducción y validación de un análisis factorial confirmatirio

Este estudo teve o objetivo de traduzir e validar estatisticamente o Inventário de Consciência Metacognitiva (MAI), instrumento inédito na literatura em língua portuguesa. Foram coletadas 1058 respostas entre estudantes e profissionais de Administração na cidade Salvador, Bahia. A tradução adotou a metodologiaback translation e a validação estatística foi através da Análise Fatorial Confirmatória pelo Modelo de Equações Estruturais. O construto “Consciência Metacognitiva” relacionado ao MAI confirmou que as dimensões “Consciência do Conhecimento das Habilidades e Estratégias Metacognitivas” e “Consciência das Estratégias de Regulação Metacognitivas” apresentaram medidas de confiabilidade composta e a validade discriminante corroborou que as correlações entre estes indicadores e suas respectivas dimensões são mais fortes que as correlações entre as dimensões; ou seja, o construto “Consciência Metacognitiva” reúne validade discriminante, o que permite validar o instrumento traduzido.

This study aimed to translate and validate statistically the Metacognitive Awareness Inventory (MAI), new instrument in the literature in Portuguese. We collected 1058 responses from students and professionals in the city of Directors Salvador, Bahia. Translation adopted the methodology back translation and statistical validation was through Confirmatory Factor Analysis by Structural Equation Model. The construct “Metacognitive Awareness” related to MAI confirmed that the dimensions “Awareness Knowledge Skills and Strategies Metacognitive” and “Awareness of Metacognitive Strategies Setting” presented measures of composite reliability and discriminant validity confirmed that the correlations between these indicators and their dimensions are stronger than the correlations between dimensions, ie, the construct “Metacognitive Awareness” meets discriminant validity, which achieves validate the instrument translated.

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo traducir y validar estadísticamente el Inventario conciencia metacognitiva (MAI), nuevo instrumento en la literatura en lengua portuguesa. Se recogieron 1.058 respuestas de los estudiantes y profesionales de la ciudad de Administración de Salvador, Brazil. Traducción adoptó la traducción de vuelta metodología y validación estadística fue a través de análisis factorial confirmatorio mediante modelos de ecuaciones estructurales. La “conciencia metacognitiva” constructo relacionado con MAI confirmó que las dimensiones “habilidades de conciencia conocimientos y estrategias metacognitivas” y “Conciencia de estrategias metacognitivas Configuración” que se presentan las medidas de fiabilidad compuesta y la validez discriminante confirman que las correlaciones entre estos indicadores y sus dimensiones son más fuertes que las correlaciones entre las dimensiones, es decir, la “conciencia metacognitiva” constructo cumple la validez discriminante , que permite validar el instrumento traducido.

Análisis factorial confirmatorio de los principales modelos propuestos para el Purpose-In-Life Test en una muestra de universitarios españoles / Confirmatory factor analysis of the main models proposed for the Purpose-In-Life Test in a sample of Spanish undergraduates / Análise fatorial confirmatório dos principais modelos propostos para o Purpose-In-Life Test em uma mostra de universitários espanhóis

En los últimos años varios trabajos han analizado la estructura factorial del Purpose-In-Life Test, instrumento que mide el logro de sentido de la vida desde los planteamientos de la logoterapia, con resultados muy heterogéneos. El objetivo del presente trabajo consistió en poner a prueba distintos modelos propuestos en la literatura anterior, con una muestra de 766 alumnos de dos universidades de la Comunidad Valenciana (España), de los que 220 son hombres y 546 son mujeres, con edades comprendidas entre los 18 y los 36 años (M = 21.96; DT = 3.56). Se realizaron análisis factoriales confirmatorios de dichos modelos y se compararon los valores de ajuste y las estructuras factoriales obtenidas, encontrando apoyo empírico para tres modelos bifactoriales.

In recent years several papers have examined the structure of the Purpose-In-Life Test, which measures the achievement of meaning in life from the approach of logotherapy, having found heterogeneous results. The aim of this study was to test different models proposed in previous literature with a sample of 766 Spanish undergraduates (220 males, 546 females) from two universities of the Valencia Community (Spain), aged between 18 and 36 (M = 21.96; SD = 3.56). Confirmatory factor analysis of these models was conducted. The adjustment values and the factorial structures obtained were compared, finding empirical support for three bi-factorial models.

Nos últimos anos vários trabalhos analisaram a estrutura fatorial do Purpose-In-Life Test, instrumento que mede o sucesso do sentido da vida desde as propostas da logoterapia, havendo sido obtidos resultados muito heterogêneos. O objetivo do presente trabalho consistiu em testar diferentes modelos propostos na literatura anterior, com uma mostra de 766 alunos de duas universidades da Comunidade Valenciana (Espanha), dos quais 220 são homens e 546 são mulheres, com idades compreendidas entre 18 e 36 anos (M = 21.96; DT = 3.56). Realizaram-se análises fatoriais confirmatórias desses modelos e foram comparados os valores de ajuste e as estruturas fatoriais obtidas, encontrando apoio empírico para três modelos bifatoriais.

Estudos biofísicos e de atividade de peptídeos correspondentes ao N-terminal das toxinas esticolisinais I e II - contribuição para a elucidação do mecanismo de ação / Biophysical and activity studies of peptides corresponding to the N-termini of sticholysins I and II - a contribution to the elucidation of the toxins' mechanism of action

Esticolisinas I e II, citolisinas purificadas da anêmona marinha Stichodactyla helianthus, agem lisando membranas biológicas e modelo. O mecanismo de ação proposto consiste na formação de um poro toroidal com o envolvimento do domínio N-terminal. Diferentes aspectos da interação entre peptídeos derivados do N-terminal das toxinas (StI1-31 and StI12-31 SELAGTIIDGASLTFEVLDKVLGELGKVSRK, e StII1-30 and StII11-30 ALAGTIIAGASLTFQVLDKVLEELGKVSRK) com membranas modelo - micelas e bicamadas - foram estudados com o objetivo de contribuir para a elucidação do mecanismo de ação das toxinas em nível molecular. O emprego dos peptídeos teve como base a hipótese de que fragmentos proteicos podem ser capazes de mimetizar a estrutura e atividade das proteínas inteiras. O análogo contendo o aminoácido paramagnético TOAC (N-TOAC-StII11-30) também foi estudado. Estudos conformacionais foram realizados empregando-se as técnicas espectroscópicas de dicroísmo circular (CD), ressonância paramagnética eletrônica (EPR) e fluorescência. Foram ainda realizados estudos de predição de estrutura e modelagem molecular. Espectros de CD mostraram que os peptídeos adquirem conformação em α-hélice ao interagir com membranas modelo, de acordo com a conformação observada nessa região para as toxinas. Variando a composição lipídica das membranas modelo estudadas, foi possível investigar a contribuição de forças eletrostáticas de de interações hidrofóbicas para a ligação do peptídeo. Ensaios de supressão de fluorescência de lípidos contendo grupamentos fluorescentes em diferentes posições pelo resíduo paramagnético TOAC e espectros de ressonância paramagnética eletrônica (EPR) permitiram localizar o resíduo TOAC na interface membrana-água, corroborando o modelo proposto do poro toroidal. A análise dos espectros de CD e EPR também permitiu obter as constantes de ligação dos peptídeos com micelas e bicamadas. Os peptídeos também foram capazes de mimetizar as toxinas do ponto de vista funcional, como mostrado por testes de vazamento de carboxifluoresceína e atividade hemolítica. Peptídeos curtos, contendo partes da sequência de StII1-30, sintetizados com o objetivo de examinar uma eventual atividade antimicrobiana, demonstraram baixa atividade, bem como ausência de atividade hemolítica e de toxicidade para células humanas

Sticholysins I and II, cytolysins purified from the sea anemone Stichodactyla helianthus, act by lysing biological and model membranes. The proposed mechanism of action consists in the formation of a toroidal pore with the involvement of the N-terminal domain [1]. Different aspects of the interaction between peptides from the toxins' N-termini (StI1-31 and StI12-31 SELAGTIIDGASLTFEVLDKVLGELGKVSRK, and StII1-30 and StII11-30 ALAGTIIAGASLTFQVLDKVLEELGKVSRK) and model membranes - micelles and bilayers - have been studied to contribute to the elucidation of the toxins mechanism of action at the molecular level. The use of peptides was based on the hypothesis that potein fragments can eventually mimic the structure and activity of the whole protein. An analogue containing the paramagnetic amino acid TOAC (N-TOAC-StII11-30) was also studied. Conformational studies were performed making use of the spectroscopic techniques circular dichroism (CD), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and fluorescence. Studies of structure prediction and molecular modeling were also performed. CD spectra showed that the peptides acquired α-helical conformation upon interaction with model lipid membranes, in agreement with the conformation found for these segments in the whole proteins. Making use of membranes of variable lipid composition, it was possible to assess the contribution of electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions for peptide binding. Fluorescence quenching of labeled lipids by paramagnetic TOAC and EPR spectra allowed us to locate the TOAC residue at the membrane-water interface, corroborating the proposed model of the toroidal pore. The CD and EPR studies also allowed us to obtain the binding constants for the peptide-micelle and peptide-bilayer interaction. The peptides were also capable of mimicking the toxins function, as shown by assays of carboxyfluorescein leakage and hemolytic activity. Short peptides containing parts of StII1-30's sequence were synthesized with the aim of testing their antimicrobial activity. The peptides displayed low antimicrobial activity, as well as lack of hemolytic activity and toxicity against human cells

Effect of the number of abutments on biomechanics of Branemark prosthesis with straight and tilted distal implants

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the bending moments, and compressive and tensile forces in implant-supported prostheses with three, four or five abutments. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ten Pd-Ag frameworks were tested over two master models with: 1) parallel vertical implants, and 2) tilted distal implants. Strain gauges were fixed on the abutments of each master model to measure the deformation when a static load of 50 N was applied on the cantilever (15 mm). The deformation values were measured when the metallic frameworks were tested over three, four or five abutments, and transformed into force and bending moment values. Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test for multiple comparisons at 5 percent level of significance. RESULTS: Abutment #1 (adjacent to the cantilever) had the highest values of force and sagittal bending moment for all tests with three, four or five abutments. Independently from the number of abutments, axial force in abutment #1 was higher in the vertical model than in the tilted model. Total moment was higher with three abutments than with four or five abutments. Independently from the inclination of implants, the mean force with four or five abutments was lower than that with three abutments. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that in the set-ups with four or five abutments tilted distal implants reduced axial force and did not increase bending moments.

Configuration and integration of psychosocial components in mexican couple relations

El interés en la percepción y en las expectativas, conductas, reacciones, emociones y en el funcionamiento en general de pareja, ha estimulado una gran cantidad de investigaciones psicosociales en Occidente. A fin de describir dicha interacción en parejas mexicanas, se desarrolló y probó empíricamente un modelo estructural que integra en forma lógica, las variables insertas en el fenómeno. En este estudio participaron 459 parejas residentes de la Ciudad de México, quienes respondieron a un extenso cuestionario de auto-reporte construido para la presente investigación. El inventario incluía preguntas sobre demostración y percepción de amor, afecto, cariño, dependencia, conductas violentas, frecuencia y evaluación de vida sexual, emociones generadas por la interacción y razones para mantener la relación. Adicionalmente, se incluyeron los inventarios multidimensionales de celos (Díaz- Loving, Rivera Aragón & Flores Galaz, 1989), satisfacción marital (Cortes Martínez, Reyes Domínguez, Díaz-Loving, Rivera Aragón & Monjaraz Carrasco, 1994) y formas de interacción con la pareja (Díaz-Loving & Andrade Palos, 1996). La estructura empírica fue extraída de un análisis factorial de segundo orden del que resultaron cinco factores que describen al amor ideal, hostilidad, afecto y dependencia, frustración y temor y finalmente, interés personal en el caso de los hombres y cuatro factores de amor ideal, hostilidad-afecto, frustración- temor e interés personal en el caso de las mujeres. Las diferencias y las correlaciones entre las escalas por sexo