Artículos

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://docta.ucm.es/handle/20.500.14352/15

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Evaluation of podiatric disorders in a sample of children with intellectual disabilities: an analytical cross-sectional study
(Sao Paulo Medical Journal, 2018) Cala Pérez, Laura; Losa Iglesias, Marta Elena; Rodríguez Sanz, David; Calvo Lobo, César; López López, Daniel; Becerro De Bengoa Vallejo, Ricardo
BACKGROUND: Intellectual disabilities (IDs) usually derive from neurodevelopmental disabilities. They limit intellectual functioning and cause adaptive behaviors and orthopedic problems. These disabilities have harmful effects on health, everyday practical skills and social functioning, and they diminish quality of life. The goal of our research was to perform podiatric evaluations on schoolchildren with and without ID and ascertain their records of foot disorders. DESIGN AND SETTING: Analytical cross-sectional study conducted at a podiatric clinic in the city of Piedras Blancas, province of Asturias, Spain. METHODS: An analytical cross-sectional study on 82 schoolchildren affected by ID, compared with 117 healthy schoolchildren, was conducted at a podiatric clinic. Demographic data, clinical characteristics and measurements relating to podiatric examinations were recorded among the participants who completed all phases of the tool that was used in the study process. RESULTS: Almost 90% of the schoolchildren with and without ID presented foot disorders relating to smaller toes, nail disorders, flat feet or lower-limb alterations. CONCLUSIONS: The participants showed elevated prevalence of foot disorders. Podiatric evaluations are a significant means for preventing the appearance of medical conditions and/or foot problems, and they also improve general health.
De proyecto científico a palanca de medro personal : el «Diálogo del tabaco» de Bartolomé Marradón
(Atalaya : Revue d'Études Médiévales Romanes, 2025) Blanco Gómez, Emilio Francisco
RESUMEN: El «Diálogo del uso del tabaco» de Bartolomé Marradón (Sevilla, 1618) es uno de los primeros textos publicados en Europa y en lengua romance sobre esta sustancia procedente de las Indias. Este artículo analiza la condición profesional del autor a la luz de nuevos datos (que parecen indicar que no era médico), las circunstancias de la publicación del opúsculo a través de los preliminares (que testimonian un evidente afán de medro cortesano desde Sevilla), el carácter de los tres personajes intervinientes en el coloquio, al igual que la naturaleza de este así como sus fuentes, y especialmente el carácter peculiar del cierre de la pieza, que rompe el hilo argumental –pretendidamente científico, pese al género literario empleado– para concluir con un elogio del rey Felipe III, en consonancia con las apetencias áulicas del autor.
Zaltoprofen and its novel analogues exhibit dual targeting of COX-2 and PPAR-γ, providing a strategy to alleviate lipopolysaccharide – induced acute lung injury.
(Biochemical Pharmacology, 2025) Lu, Qirong; Zhao, Yongxia; Xu, Xiaoqing; Guo, Pu; Ares Lombán, Irma; Martínez Caballero, Marta; López Torres, Bernardo; Martínez Larrañaga, María Rosa; Anadón Navarro, Arturo Ramón; Pan, Yuanhu; Wang, Xu; Martínez Caballero, María Aranzazu
Acute lung injury (ALI) is a multi-system and multifactorial disease, which is characterised by an uncontrolled inflammatory response and high mortality. Zaltoprofen (ZPF), is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with powerful anti-inflammatory effects, as well as an analgesic action on inflammatory pain. Therefore, this research study aims to explore whether ZPF, its main metabolite M2 (S-oxide-zaltoprofen) and novel analogues can alleviate ALI through multiple targets. Based on molecular docking, the similar topological structure binding properties of protein targets (STSBPT) strategy, the cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS), for first time, this study found that cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) are dual targets of ZPF and M2. Based on this outcome, novel analogues related to ZPF and M2 were designed. The present research study also examined the effect and the cellular and molecular mechanisms of ZPF, M2 and the novel analogues on LPS-induced ALI in vitro and in vivo, through the dual targets of COX-2 and PPAR-γ. The findings of this study suggest that the STSBPT strategy could assist as a probable multi-target medicinal drug screening strategy, and ZPF, its main metabolite M2 and its novel analogues could serve as potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of ALI, through the both COX-2 and PPAR-γ molecular signalling targets.
Modernización de las administraciones y compra pública vinculada al mecanismo de recuperación y resiliencia: riesgos y debilidades en materia de integridad
(Revista Vasca de Gestión de Personas y Organizaciones Públicas, 2024) Gutiérrez David, María Estrella
Este trabajo pretende sistematizar algunas de las reformas e inversiones relacionadas con la compra pública vinculada al Componente C11 del Plan de Recuperación, Transformación y Resiliencia («PRTR»), «Modernización de las Administraciones Públicas», a fin de identificar los riesgos y debilidades para la integridad de la contratación vinculada a la ejecución del Plan. Para ello se ha considerado la metodología del Sistema Nacional de Integridad, los hitos y objetivos contenidos en las Decisiones de Ejecución del Consejo y las evaluaciones realizadas por las autoridades de control. A partir de este enfoque metodológico se han identificado algunos de los riesgos y debilidades (endógenos y exógenos) del sistema de contratación español vinculados a la ejecución de los fondos del PRTR. Entre los riesgos se incluyen la posible corrupción y el fraude, el incumplimiento de las normas en materia de contratación, los cuellos de botella en la ejecución de los fondos de Recuperación y Resiliencia o el rendimiento ineficiente del Plan. Las debilidades endógenas se refieren a patologías sistémicas de nuestro sistema de contratación en términos de competencia y eficiencia, limitaciones en la trazabilidad y transparencia de la contratación vinculada al Mecanismo de Recuperación y Resiliencia («MRR»), insuficiencias en la capacidad administrativa, o deficiencias en el propio diseño del PRTR y de sus mecanismos de control y evaluación del rendimiento. Entre los factores de riesgo exógenos estarían las limitaciones en el propio diseño del mecanismo de recuperación y resiliencia que habrían condicionado, en su caso, la configuración de los Planes nacionales.
Proprioceptive Stabilizer™ training of the abdominal wall muscles in healthy subjects: a quasi-experimental study
(Revista da Associacao Medica Brasileira, 2018) Morales, Carlos Romero; Rodríguez Sanz, David; Reguera, Mónica de la Cueva; Martínez, Silvia Fernández; González, Patricia Téllez; Pascual, Beatriz Martínez
The present quasi-experimental study aimed to assess the transversus abdominis (TrA), internal oblique (IO) and external oblique (EO) thickness in healthy subjects with the proprioceptive Stabilizer™ training in abdominal wall muscles. A sample of 41 healthy participants (age: 31.9 ± 4.5 y; height: 1.7 ± 0.1 m; weight: 68.3 ± 13.1 kg; body mass index, BMI: 22.9 ± 2.7 kg/m2) were recruited to participate in this study. Ultrasound images of the EO, IO, TrA, rectus anterior (RA) and interrecti distance (IRD) were measured and analyzed by the ImageJ software. Measurements were made at rest and during the abdominal drawing-maneuver (ADIM) developed by the patients with the Stabilizer™ located in the low back holding 40 mmHg for 10 seconds with a visual stimulus provided by a circular pressure marker. Ultrasound measurements for the abdominal wall muscles showed statistically significant differences (Π < .05) for a thickness decrease of the EO, IO and a thickness increase of TrA. A proprioceptive Stabilizer™ training produced a thickness increase in TrA muscle and a thickness decrease in EO and IO muscles in healthy subjects. These findings suggest that a proprioceptive Stabilizer™ training could be useful in individuals with low back pain and lumbopelvic pain.
Review and Evaluation of European National Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Treatment and Management of Active Charcot Neuro‐Osteoarthropathy in Diabetes Using the AGREE‐II Tool Identifies an Absence of Evidence‐Based Recommendations
(Journal of Diabetes Research, 2024) Renwick, Nichola; Pallin, Jennifer; Bo Jansen, Rasmus; Gooday, Catherine; Tardaguila García, Aroa; Sanz Corbalán, Irene; Tentolouris, Anastasios; Jirkovská, Alexandra; Koller, Armin; Korzon Burakowska, Anna; Petrova, Nina; Game, Frances
Background Charcot neuro-osteoarthropathy (CNO) is a rare but devastating complication of diabetes associated with high rates of morbidity; yet, many nonfoot specialists are unaware of it, resulting in missed and delayed diagnosis. Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) have proven useful in improving quality of care and standardizing practice in diabetes and diabetic foot care. However, little is known about the consistency in recommendations for identification and management of active CNO. Aim The aim of this study is to review European national diabetes CPGs for the diagnosis and management of active CNO and to assess their methodological rigor and transparency. Methods A systematic search was performed to identify diabetes national CPGs across Europe. Guidelines in any language were reviewed to explore whether they provided a definition for active CNO and recommendations for diagnosis, monitoring, and management. Methodological rigor and transparency were assessed using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE-II) tool, which comprises 23 key items organized within six domains with an overall guideline assessment score of ≥ 60% considered to be of adequate quality to recommend use. Each guideline was assessed by two reviewers, and inter-rater agreement (Kendall’s W) was calculated for AGREE-II scores. Results Seventeen CPGs met the inclusion criteria. Breadth of CNO content varied across guidelines (median (IQR) word count: 327; Q1 = 151; Q3 = 790), and 53% provided a definition for active CNO. Recommendations for diagnosis and monitoring were provided by 82% and 53%, respectively, with offloading being the most common management recommendation (88%). Four guidelines (24%) reached threshold for recommendation for use in clinical practice (≥ 60%) with the scope and purpose domain scoring highest (mean (SD): 67%, ± 23%). The remaining domains had average scores ranging between 19% and 53%. Inter-rater agreement was strong (W = 0.882; p < 0.001). Conclusions: European national CPGs for diabetes provide limited recommendations on active CNO. All guidelines showcased deficits in their methodology, suggesting that more rigorous methods should be employed for diabetes CPG development across Europe.
«Nihil ingrediatur mali» : puertas y portones en la literatura emblemática barroca
(e-Spania : Revue Interdisciplinaire d’Études Hispaniques Médiévales et Modernes, 2021) Blanco Gómez, Emilio Francisco
RESUMEN: La literatura emblemática del Barroco recurrió a todo tipo de elementos arquitectónicos. La puerta no es uno de los motivos más recurrentes, pese a su presencia reiterada en las imágenes de los emblemas. Aun así, puede aislarse un número significativo de ejemplos que permite estudiar un abanico de sentidos: moral, religioso, político e incluso erótico.
Lizard abundance in forest fragments: effects of patch size, patch shape, thermoregulation, and habitat quality
(Amphibia-Reptilia, 2024) Díaz González-Serrano, José Augusto; Santos Martínez, Tomás; Llanos Garrido, Alejandro
The effects of forest fragmentation on ecosystems are pervasive, but little is known about the factors that influence lizard abundance in fragmented landscapes. We studied the roles of patch size and shape, thermal quality, and refuge availability as predictors of the relative abundance of Psammodromus algirus lizards at deciduous or evergreen forest fragments surrounded by cereal fields. Relative abundance, based on time-controlled counts, decreased from the northeast (dominated by deciduous habitat) to the southwest (with a higher cover of croplands, and dominated by evergreen habitat). Refuge availability was correlated with this gradient, decreasing from the northeast to the southwest and being larger in deciduous than in evergreen fragments. After controlling for the effects of this environmental variation, lizard abundance increased as perimeter-to-area ratio (P/A) decreased (and consequently as fragment size increased). Although the effects of thermal quality as such were negligible, our results can be interpreted in the light of thermoregulatory requirements; given the low temperatures available at shaded locations, lizards should actively select sunlit patches while they try to minimize predation risk by basking as close as possible to the nearest refuge. Although use of fragment edges as basking sites is expected to increase with P/A ratio, lizards should avoid using them as basking sites, because both exposure to predators and risk of overheating are expected to be higher at edges and croplands than inside fragments. We conclude that long and narrow forest strips with high P/A ratios could act as ecological traps rather than as dispersion-promoting corridors.
Rapid microwave hydrothermal synthesis of rare Earth-modified ZnO photocatalysts: Enhanced activity and comprehensive structural analysis
(Surfaces and Interfaces, 2025) Bazta, Otman; Ramos Justicia, Juan Francisco; Urbieta Quiroga, Ana Irene; Trasobares, Susana; Fernández Sánchez, Paloma; Calvino, Jose Juan; Hungría, Ana Belén
This study demonstrates that, under the specific synthesis conditions applied, the addition of rare earth ions (Ce³⁺, Y³⁺, Eu³⁺) to ZnO does not lead to their incorporation into the lattice as dopants but instead results in their surface decoration, as revealed by advanced nanoscale characterization. ZnO and rare earth-modified ZnO photocatalysts (ZnO:RE = ZnO:Eu, ZnO:Y, ZnO:Ce) with a rare earth (RE) concentration of 2 at.% were synthesized via a rapid and environmentally friendly microwave-assisted hydrothermal method. The effect of adding different RE elements on the structural, morphological, and photocatalytic properties of the samples was systematically investigated. A thorough characterization was conducted using Xray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), high-angle annular dark field (HAADF)-scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) at various excitation wavelengths and temperatures. XRD analysis confirmed that all ZnO:RE samples retained the hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure of ZnO. FESEM images revealed that pure ZnO consisted of randomly distributed smooth nanosheets, while the addition of RE elements led to the formation of small particles dispersed over the nanosheet surfaces. A detailed structural analysis using STEM revealed that the rare earth elements formed structures decorating the surface of ZnO nanosheets rather than being fully incorporated into the ZnO lattice, indicating a dispersion of RE species over the ZnO matrix. This unique distribution significantly influenced the material’s properties. The photocatalytic performance of the ZnO:RE samples was evaluated through the degradation of methylene blue (MB), demonstrating superior activity compared to pure ZnO and TiO2-P25. Among the modified samples, the cerium-modified ZnO (ZnO:Ce) exhibited the highest MB degradation efficiency. Furthermore, PL spectroscopy combined with TEM analysis provided critical insights into the relationship between defect characteristics and photocatalytic activity, offering a deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving performance enhancement. These findings highlight the potential of rare earth surface structures-ZnO nanosheets heterojunctions as a strategy for optimizing the photocatalytic properties of ZnO-based materials.
¿Un alegato contra el derecho de conquista? La «Plática del villano del Danubio» de fray Antonio de Guevara
(e-Spania : Revue Interdisciplinaire d’Études Hispaniques Médiévales et Modernes, 2021) Blanco Gómez, Emilio Francisco
RESUMEN: El artículo revisa las distintas teorías emitidas sobre el pasaje más famoso de toda la producción literaria de fray Antonio de Guevara, el discurso del villano del Danubio. Se llama la atención sobre tres momentos de la recepción del texto: por un lado, los cortesanos del ambiente español coetáneo y quienes lo leen en América poco después de su publicación, a partir de 1535; por otro, los lectores modernos: hasta la segunda revisión de Américo Castro, el discurso no encontró referentes ultramarinos. Se repasan las distintas teorías sobre el posible significado y la intención de la arenga, y se apuesta de forma clara por la identificación del villano con el hombre salvaje de la literatura medieval, cuyas características iconográficas coinciden mayoritariamente con las de Mileno. Todo ello revela un texto polisémico en el que las críticas a la administración de justicia parecen predominar sobre otros considerandos relativos a América.
Hypothalamic orexinergic neuron changes during the hibernation of the Syrian hamster
(Frontiers in Neuroanatomy, 2022) López Redondo, Jesús María; Carballeira, Paula; Pozo, Javier; León Espinosa, Gonzalo; Muñoz Céspedes, Alberto
Hibernation in small mammals is a highly regulated process with periods of torpor involving drops in body temperature and metabolic rate, as well as a general decrease in neural activity, all of which proceed alongside complex brain adaptive changes that appear to protect the brain from extreme hypoxia and low temperatures. All these changes are rapidly reversed, with no apparent brain damage occurring, during the short periods of arousal, interspersed during torpor—characterized by transitory and partial rewarming and activity, including sleep activation, and feeding in some species. The orexins are neuropeptides synthesized in hypothalamic neurons that project to multiple brain regions and are known to participate in the regulation of a variety of processes including feeding behavior, the sleep-wake cycle, and autonomic functions such as brown adipose tissue thermogenesis. Using multiple immunohistochemical techniques and quantitative analysis, we have characterized the orexinergic system in the brain of the Syrian hamster—a facultative hibernator. Our results revealed that orexinergic neurons in this species consisted of a neuronal population restricted to the lateral hypothalamic area, whereas orexinergic fibers distribute throughout the rostrocaudal extent of the brain, particularly innervating catecholaminergic and serotonergic neuronal populations. We characterized the changes of orexinergic cells in the different phases of hibernation based on the intensity of immunostaining for the neuronal activity marker C-Fos and orexin A (OXA). During torpor, we found an increase in C-Fos immunostaining intensity in orexinergic neurons, accompanied by a decrease in OXA immunostaining. These changes were accompanied by a volume reduction and a fragmentation of the Golgi apparatus (GA) as well as a decrease in the colocalization of OXA and the GA marker GM-130. Importantly, during arousal, C-Fos and OXA expression in orexinergic neurons was highest and the structural appearance and the volume of the GA along with the colocalization of OXA/GM-130 reverted to euthermic levels. We discuss the involvement of orexinergic cells in the regulation of mammalian hibernation and, in particular, the possibility that the high activation of orexinergic cells during the arousal stage guides the rewarming as well as the feeding and sleep behaviors characteristic of this phase.
Biodiversity, Traditional Uses, and Pharmacological Potential of Medicinal Plants of Mozambique
(Agriculture, 2024) Henriques Razão, Emílio; Sánchez Gómez-Serranillos, Marta; Naval López, María Victoria; Gavilán García, Rosario Gloria; Gómez-Serranillos Cuadrado, María Pilar
Mozambique possesses great biological diversity, with approximately 5500 plant species. Around 90% of its population uses natural resources for food and traditional medicine, being miombo forests serving as key providers for rural communities. The trade of medicinal plants also constitutes a significant economic activity for both rural and urban households. This study aims to review ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological studies on medicinal plants in Mozambique and explore their agricultural and conservation potential. Articles published between 2010 and 2024 were included and identified 472 medicinal plant species, 400 of which were classified to species or genus level, spanning 277 genera and 93 botanical families. The most cited families include Leguminosae (61 species), Euphorbiaceae (20), and Combretaceae (17). Notable species are Momordica balsamina, Sclerocarya birrea, Annona senegalensis, and Cassia abbreviata. Sixteen in vitro studies explored medicinal plants’ antibacterial, antimycobacterial, antimicrobial, anticancer, and antimalarial properties. Prominent results were shown by Maerua edulis (tuberculosis), Tabernaemontana elegans (malaria), and Momordica balsamina (cancer). This work underscores the critical role of natural resources in Mozambique’s primary healthcare system and highlights their agricultural and economic potential. As the first comprehensive compilation of commonly used medicinal plants in the country, it calls for sustainable cultivation practices and further research to enhance their use and benefits.
El cuento musical: otra forma de contar un cuento
(Revista Padres y Maestros = Journal of Parents and Teachers, 2007) Toboso Ontoria, Susana; Viñuales, Natividad
Los seres humanos empleamos diferentes lenguajes, entre los que destacan el literario, el musical y el corporal. La unión de música y literatura se da en las canciones, pero también en los cuentos. En este artículo se exponen algunos tipos de cuentos musicales y los beneficios que tienen para los niños.
Metabolomic Profiling, Antioxidant and Enzyme Inhibition Properties and Molecular Docking Analysis of Antarctic Lichens
(Molecules, 2022) Torres-Benítez, Alfredo; Ortega-Valencia, José Erick; Sánchez Gómez-Serranillos, Marta; Dulare Devi, Pradeep Divakar; Simirgiotis; Mario J.; Gómez-Serranillos Cuadrado, María Pilar
The lichen species Lecania brialmontii, Pseudephebe pubescens, and Sphaerophorus globosus are part of the prominent lichenoflora of the Antarctic territory. In this work, we report the metabolomic identification of ethanolic extracts of these species, their antioxidant and cholinesterase enzyme inhibitory activity, and conduct a molecular docking analysis with typical compounds. Eighteen compounds were identified by UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS in L. brialmontii, 18 compounds in P. pubescens, and 14 compounds in S. globosus. The content of phenolic compounds was variable among the species, ranging from 0.279 to 2.821 mg AG/g, and all three species showed high inhibition potential on the cholinesterase enzymes. Molecular docking showed important interactions between AChE and BChE with the selected compounds. This study evidences the chemical fingerprint of three species of the order Lecanorales that support the continuation of the study of other biological activities and their potential for medical research.
Comparative Analysis of the Chelating Capacity of Two Solutions Activated with Sonic and Ultrasonic Systems: HEBP Versus EDTA
(Applied Sciences, 2025) Lefevre, Chloé; Mena Gómez, Julia Mª; Martín Vacas, Andrea; Vera González, Vicente; Mena Álvarez, Jesús
The success of root canal treatment depends on the proper execution of each phase. However, the instrumentation and irrigation phase is especially important. During this phase the interior of the root canal system must be removed to facilitate the next phase, obturation, achieving the most airtight seal possible, resulting in the success of the endodontic treatment. This study aimed to compare the chelating capacity and smear layer removal effectiveness of two irrigants—17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and 9% hydroxyethylidene bisphosphonate (HEBP)—when activated using two different irrigant activation systems: sonic and ultrasonic. Additionally, the study assessed the relationship between these variables and the average diameter of dentinal tubules in the coronal, middle, and apical thirds of the root canal. A total of 105 single-rooted human teeth were decoronated and instrumented using a rotary system. Teeth were randomly assigned to four experimental groups based on the irrigant (EDTA or HEBP) and the activation method (sonic or ultrasonic). Final irrigation was performed with the corresponding protocol. Samples were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Smear layer removal was quantified using the Carvalho method, and dentinal tubule diameter was measured with image analysis software. Data were statistically analyzed using Kolmogorov–Smirnov and non-parametric tests, with a significance level set at α = 0.05. EDTA showed superior smear layer removal in the coronal and middle thirds, particularly when activated ultrasonically. In contrast, HEBP was more effective in the apical third, especially when used with sonic activation. There were no statistically significant differences in the overall tubule diameter between the two chelating agents; however, HEBP resulted in significantly larger tubule openings in the apical third. Activation systems played a critical role, with ultrasonic irrigation being more effective for EDTA and sonic irrigation favoring HEBP in specific canal regions. The combination of chelating agent and activation system influences both smear layer removal and dentinal tubule morphology. HEBP demonstrated promising results in the apical third with minimal structural damage, supporting its use as a viable alternative to EDTA in continuous chelation protocols.
Assessing the Heat Tolerance of Meiosis in Spanish Landraces of Tetraploid Wheat Triticum turgidum
(Plants, 2022) Naranjo Pompa, Tomás; Cuñado Rodríguez, Nieves; Santos Coloma, Juan Luis
Heat stress alters the number and distribution of meiotic crossovers in wild and cultivated plant species. Hence, global warming may have a negative impact on meiosis, fertility, and crop productions. Assessment of germplasm collections to identify heat-tolerant genotypes is a priority for future crop improvement. Durum wheat, Triticum turgidum, is an important cultivated cereal worldwide and given the genetic diversity of the durum wheat Spanish landraces core collection, we decided to analyse the heat stress effect on chiasma formation in a sample of 16 landraces of T. turgidum ssp. turgidum and T. turgidum ssp. durum, from localities with variable climate conditions. Plants of each landrace were grown at 18–22 °C and at 30 °C during the premeiotic temperature-sensitive stage. The number of chiasmata was not affected by heat stress in three genotypes, but decreased by 0.3–2 chiasmata in ten genotypes and more than two chiasmata in the remaining three ones. Both thermotolerant and temperature-sensitive genotypes were found in the two subspecies, and in some of the agroecological zones studied, which supports that genotypes conferring a heat tolerant meiotic phenotype are not dependent on subspecies or geographical origin. Implications of heat adaptive genotypes in future research and breeding are discussed.
Estudio exploratorio sobre las dificultades y/o barreras para la educación inclusiva a nivel de aula, desde la perspectiva de docentes en servicio de Educación Infantil y Primaria
(Revista Electrónica Interuniversitaria de Formación del Profesorado: REIFOP, 2024) Silva-Laguardia, María Martina; Alba Pastor, María Del Carmen
El objetivo del estudio es describir las dificultades y barreras percibidas por los docentes uruguayos en el aula y limitan la instrumentación de sus prácticas inclusivas. Para recoger la información, se utilizó un cuestionario ad hoc diseñado para ello. La muestra no probabilística, por conveniencia, incluyó a 116 docentes de educación inicial y primaria que trabajan en instituciones públicas y privadas. El análisis de los datos se realizó desde un enfoque cuantitativo, utilizando estadísticas descriptivas e inferenciales, de acuerdo con variables sociodemográficas definidas. Los resultados revelaron que las percepciones sobre las barreras varían en función del género, nivel de formación docente y del tipo de centro en el que se desempeñan. Asimismo, se destacó que una mayor formación profesional fortalece las competencias docentes para afrontar los desafíos de la educación inclusiva. En conclusión, se evidencia la necesidad de implementar estrategias que aborden estas diferencias y dirijan los esfuerzos en proporcionar mayor apoyo institucional, formación continua y recursos adecuados para permitir a los docentes desempeñar su labor de manera inclusiva y efectiva. Los hallazgos del estudio ofrecen valiosa información sobre los retos y las oportunidades para avanzar en la mejora de la formación del profesorado parala educación inclusiva en Uruguay.
In vitro mechanistic studies and potential health benefits of a standardized bilberry extract in low mood and cognitive enhancement
(Frontiers in Nutrition, 2025) Kara, Methap; Hasbal-Celikok, Gozde; Wilson, Jacob; Gómez-Serranillos Cuadrado, María Pilar; Yilmaz-Ozden, Tugba; Öztas, Ezgi; Özhan, Gul; Zengin, Özge Sultan; Sánchez Gómez-Serranillos, Marta; Owsianik, Claudia; Rabbani, Fazle; Tunç, Merve; Arda, Nazli; Memon, Nazia M.; Ujjan, Ikram; Hawkins, Kenny; Davis, Justine; Wilson, Gabriel; Petrangolini, Giovanna; Khan, Amjad
Background: Low mood and cognitive impairments are multifactorial conditions often linked to oxidative stress, neurotransmitter imbalances, and neuroinflammation. Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) extract, particularly rich in anthocyanins, has shown promising neuropharmacological properties in recent studies. Aims of the study: This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the biochemical, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties of a standardized bilberry extract (Mirtoselect™), alongside assessing its potential health benefits on mood and cognitive enhancement in a clinical setting. Methods: In vitro assays were conducted to explore the neuromodulatory, antioxidant, and cytoprotective properties of Bilberry extract. Enzyme inhibition assays targeted γ-Aminobutyric acid transaminase (GABA-T), monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE), while GABAA receptor binding was also evaluated. Antioxidant capacity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, ORAC, HORAC, and TAS assays. Neuroprotection was investigated using SH-SY5Y cells exposed to H2O2, assessing cell viability (MTT), membrane integrity (LDH release), and BDNF expression. Cytotoxicity was determined through the MTT assay in SH-SY5Y cells. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot clinical study was conducted on healthy adult subjects (n = 33) (aged 25–55 years) to evaluate the effects of Bilberry extract on mood (POMS) and cognitive function. Results: Bilberry extract demonstrated significant inhibition of GABA-T, MAO-A, and AChE, alongside moderate GABAA receptor binding. It exhibited robust antioxidant activity in DPPH (EC50: 9.24 ± 0.22 μg/mL), ABTS (EC50: 12.70 ± 0.11 μg/mL), FRAP, ORAC, HORAC, and TAS assays. Neuroprotective effects included enhanced cell viability, reduced LDH release, and upregulation of BDNF in SH-SY5Y cells under oxidative stress. Cytotoxicity tests confirmed a favorable safety profile. In the pilot study, Bilberry extract supplementation significantly improved mood parameters, including reduced tension, depression, and confusion scores (p < 0.05) compared to placebo, with minimal adverse effects. Conclusion: Bilberry extract exhibits potent antioxidant, neuromodulatory, and neuroprotective properties, supporting its potential as a natural intervention for managing low mood and cognitive health. The favorable safety profile and preliminary clinical benefits warrant further research.
Electrospun nanofibers for localized drug release of a neuroprotective natural extract of Usnea ghattensis
(European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2024) Fernández Fernández, María De La Cabeza; Sánchez Gómez-Serranillos, Marta; Lozano-Chamizo, Laura; Abreu, Ana Cristina; Anguis-Morillas, Ana; Dulare Devi, Pradeep Divakar; Marciello, Marzia; Filice, Marco; Gonzalez-Rumayor, Victor; Fernandez, Ignacio; Contreras Cáceres, Rafael; Gómez-Serranillos Cuadrado, María Pilar
This research is based on the incorporation of the methanolic extract of the Usnea ghattensis into poly (caprolactone) (PCL) nanofibers (NFs) to investigate the capacity in reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS). PCL-NFs were fabricated by the electrospinning technique and are investigated as potential dressing material focused on the release of usnic acid (PCL-USNIC NFs), and its encapsulation efficiency and kinetic release were analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). This investigation was performed by analyzing the usnic acid concentration as a function of the distance from the mat center point. The kinetic release analysis is also developed with the usnea ghattensis extract (PCL-USNEA NFs), performing a metabolomic analysis of the released molecules as a function of time by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Usnic acid was revealed as the most relevant compound together with other molecules, such as sucrose, mannitol, arabitol or glycerol that generate a positive matrix effect on the release of usnic acid. Finally, we analize the cytotoxicity and the neuroprotective effect of PCL-USNEA and PCL-USNIC NFs using a human neuroblastoma cell line model. Negligible toxicity was appreciated for both polymeric systems, showing high protective effects in presence of highly oxidative environment (e.g. in presence of H2O2).
Antecedents of the intention to use implantable technologies for nonmedical purposes: a mixed-method evaluation
(Human Behavior and Emerging Technologies, 2024) Andrés Sánchez, Jorge de; Arias Oliva, Mario; Souto Romero, Mar
This study investigated the rise of implantable or cyborg technologies, also known as insideables, which offer the potential to improve health-related conditions and enhance the capabilities of healthy individuals. This research focused on the acceptance of insideables among university students in Spain, utilizing the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) framework along with analytical tools such as partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). The PLS-SEM analysis revealed that factors such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence positively influenced the intention to use insideables. However, the fsQCA revealed that no single variable is a necessary condition for explaining technology acceptance or rejection. Instead, a combination of constructs is needed to understand both intention to use and rejection. Configurational analysis emphasized the importance of factors such as performance expectancy, social influence, and hedonic motivation in explaining technology acceptance, whereas effort expectancy and perceived risk were less conclusive in their impact on behavioral intention. Moreover, the research revealed that the configurations related to the acceptance and rejection of insideables are asymmetrical. This study sheds light on the complex dynamics of implantable technology acceptance and provides valuable insights into the factors influencing its adoption. From a theoretical perspective, the sequential use of both correlational and configurational methods within the UTAUT framework allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the reasons behind the adoption of emerging technology rather than using only one data analysis methodology.

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