La declinación de la autoridad docente en la contemporaneidad: una perspectiva psicoanalítica / The fall of the Teaching Tuthority in the Contemporary: a Psychoanalytic Perspective

Resumen Este artículo presenta una reflexión sobre la autoridad docente en el contexto de la cultura actual, marcada por los discursos del capitalismo y de la ciencia, de los cuales surge una nueva subjetividad. El objetivo de este trabajo es discurrir sobre la incidencia de los discursos del capitalismo y de la ciencia en la declinación de la autoridad docente. En un primer momento, se aborda el proyecto y la subjetividad moderna fundados en los productos de la razón; posteriormente, se indica cómo dicho proyecto entra en una fase de sospecha, por sus efectos en el siglo XX y por la crítica realizada por los maestros de la sospecha. Luego se desarrolla la declinación de la función del padre por la incidencia del discurso del capitalismo, continuando con las consecuencias subjetivas de la declinación de la autoridad docente que genera una nueva subjetividad basada en los derechos individuales hedonistas, para finalizar con la declinación de la autoridad docente, entendida desde dos perspectivas: empresarial y epistémica, que tienen por consecuencia la forclusión de la singularidad. Se concluye que el lugar de la autoridad docente es afectado por dos elementos: primero, por el discurso del capitalismo en su relación con el discurso de la ciencia porque borra la disimetría del lazo social, donde el vínculo docente-estudiante se torna simétrico marcado por el valor de laigualdad; y segundo, por el empuje al Uno de la estandarización del conocimiento dado por políticas educativas internacionales en las que el docente es un instrumento.

Abstract This article reflects on the teaching authority in the context of current culture, marked by the discourses of capitalism and science, from which a new subjectivity emerges from these discourses. The objective to be developed is the incidence of the discourses of capitalism and science in the decline of teaching authority. At first, the project and the modern subjectivity based on the products of reason are approached, later it is indicated how this project is under an initial phase of suspicion, due to its effects in the 20th century and the criticism exerted by the masters of the suspicion. To end with the decline of the teaching authority, understood from two perspectives: business and epistemic that result in the foreclosure of the singularity. It is concluded that the place of teaching authority is affected by two elements: first, by the discourse of capitalism in its relationship with the discourse of science because it erases the dissymmetry of the social bond, where teacher-student bond becomes symmetrical marked by the value of equality; and second, by the push to One of the standardization of knowledge given by international educational policies in which the teacher is an instrument.

Silymarin's defensive role against hepatotoxicity induced by amiodarone in albino rats / El efecto defensivo de silimarin contra la hepatotoxicidad inducida por amiodarona en ratas albinas

SUMMARY: Amiodarone (AMD), an orally powerful antidysrhythmic medication that has caused hepatotoxicity on long-term administration, is commonly used across the world. Silymarin ameliorative effects (SLM); this research elucidated the magnitude of the damage to the liver tissue in AMD. We divided 24 albino rats evenly into four groups given daily doses by gastric tube for eight weeks as follows; the 1st group acted as a control group; the 2nd group received SLM; the 3rd group received AMD; and the 4th group received AMD parallel to SLM. Liver tissues prepared for light, electron microscopic and serum samples screened for biomarkers (I)liver injury enzymes, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST); (II) oxidative and antioxidant stress, malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD); and (III) inflammatory markers, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). The findings showed that AMD caused hepatic histological changes that included congestion of the blood vessels, leucocytic infiltration and cytoplasmic vacuolation. Ultrastructural degeneration of the mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum swelling, nuclear pyknosis and increased fat droplets and lysosomes were observed. The biochemical findings showed an increase in the AMD group's ALT and AST activities. The group of rats treated with AMD and SLM, increased the improvements in histology and ultrastructure, while the ALT and AST levels were reduced. Our findings collectively agreed that SLM has a protective impact on AMD hepatotoxicity which can be due to its antioxidant properties.

RESUMEN: La amiodarona (AMD) es un fuerte medicamento antiarrítmico administrado por vía oral que ha causado hepatotoxicidad en la administración a largo plazo utilizado con frecuencia en todo el mundo. Efectos de mejora de la silimarina (SLM); esta investigación analizó la magnitud del daño al tejido hepático en la DMAE. Dividimos 24 ratas albinas de manera uniforme en cuatro grupos que recibieron dosis diarias por sonda gástrica durante ocho semanas de la siguiente manera; el primer grupo fue designado como grupo control; el segundo grupo recibió SLM; el tercer grupo recibió AMD; y el cuarto grupo recibió AMD en paralelo a SLM. Se prepararon tejidos hepáticos para muestras de suero, microscopía de luz y electrónica y se analizaron para biomarcadores (I) enzimas de daño hepático, alanina aminotransferasa (ALT) y aspartato aminotransferasa (AST); (II) estrés oxidativo y antioxidante, malondialdehído (MDA) y superóxido dismutasa (SOD); y (III) marcadores inflamatorios, factor de necrosis tumoral alfa (TNF-a) e interleucina-6 (IL-6). Los hallazgos mostraron que la DMAE genera cambios histológicos hepáticos que incluyen congestión de los vasos sanguíneos, infiltración leucocítica y vacuolación citoplásmica. Se observó una degeneración ultraestructural de las mitocondrias, aumento del retículo endoplásmico, picnosis nuclear y aumento de gotitas de grasa y lisosomas. Los hallazgos bioquímicos mostraron un aumento en las actividades de ALT y AST del grupo AMD. El grupo de ratas tratadas con AMD y SLM, aumentó las mejoras en histología y ultraestructura, mientras que se redujeron los niveles de ALT y AST. Nuestros hallazgos coincidieron colectivamente en que SLM tiene un impacto protector sobre la hepatotoxicidad de AMD debido a sus propiedades antioxidantes.

Antioxidant activity of selenium on bisphenol-induced apoptosis and testicular toxicity of Albino rats / Actividad antioxidante el selenio sobre la apoptosis inducid por bisfenol y toxicidad testicular en ratas albinas

SUMMARY: Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrial chemical widely used to make polycarbonate plastics for packaging and epoxy resins. This study sought to examine how selenium (Se) affects BPA toxicity in terms of albino rats' histological structure, antioxidant enzymes and reproductive organs (seminiferous tubules). Twenty-four adult male rats were divided into four experimental groups: Group 1: Control; Group 2: Orally administered BPA; Group 3: Orally administered sodium selenite; Group 4: Treated daily with BPA followed by selenium (Se). All experiment done for 4 weeks. BPA exposure caused changes in the testicular histological structure, which consists apoptosis, and led to changes in several biochemical markers: Malondialdehyde, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase. However, these BPA side effects may be ameliorated in rats treated with BPA-plus-Se. These protective effects of Se may attributable to its ability to remove potentially damaging oxidizing agents in living organisms. The results may confirm that Se countered the oxidant effects and increased the BPA-induced stress response in rats. So, Se promotes the healthy growth and development of mammals by protecting them from oxidative stress. As human are greatly exposed to BPA and it can accumulate in tissues, there is concern about human reproductive functions particularly for occupational workers exposed usually to greater levels of BPA. Thus, the use of BPA in multiple industries must be restricted and the inaccurate usage of plastic containers should be avoided to decrease the health hazards. Administration of Se may protect against the adverse effects of BPA on reproductive functions and structures.

RESUMEN: El bisfenol A (BPA) es un químico industrial ampliamente utilizado para fabricar plásticos de policarbonato para envases y resinas epoxi. Este estudio examinó el efecto de selenio (Se) en la toxicidad del BPA en términos de la estructura histológica, enzimas antioxidantes y los órganos reproductivos (túbulos seminíferos) de ratas albinas. Se dividieron veinticuatro ratas macho adultas en cuatro grupos experimentales: Grupo 1: control; Grupo 2: BPA administrado por vía oral; Grupo 3: BPA administrado por vía oral para; Grupo 4: tratado diariamente con BPA seguido de selenio (Se). El experimento se realizó durante cuatro semanas y se observó que la exposición al BPA provocó cambios en la estructura histológica testicular, incluyendo apoptosis, y alteraciones en varios marcadores bioquímicos:malondialdehído, catalasa, superóxido dismutasa y glutatión peroxidasa. Sin embargo, estos efectos secundarios del BPA pueden mejorar en ratas tratadas con BPA-plus-Se. Estos efectos protectores del Se pueden ser atribuidos a la capacidad de eliminar agentes oxidantes potencialmente dañinos en organismos vivos. Los resultados indicaron que se contrarrestaron los efectos oxidantes y aumentó la respuesta al estrés inducido por BPA en ratas, y favorece el crecimiento y desarrollo en los mamíferos al protegerlos del estrés oxidativo. Debido a la exposición al BPA en el ser humano, se puede acumular en los tejidos, por lo que existe una preocupación por el daño a las funciones reproductivas en particular de los trabajadores que generalmente están expuestos a niveles más altos de BPA. Por lo tanto, se debe restringir el uso de BPA en las industrias y evitar el uso incorrecto de envases de plástico para así disminuir los riesgos para la salud. La administración correcta de Se puede proteger contra los efectos adversos del BPA en las funciones y estructuras reproductivas.

Protective effect of dietary vitamin E (alpha; Tocopherol) on artemisinin induced oxidative liver tissue damage in rats / Efecto protector de la vitamina E en la dieta (alfa; tocoferol) sobre el daño oxidativo del tejido hepático inducido por artemisinina en ratas

This experiment was designed to study the effects of oral administration of artemether which is the most rapid-acting class of antimalarial drugs and the possible protective effect of vitamin E taken with it on the liver of albino rats. A total of twenty-four adult male albino rats were used in this study and were divided into four groups. Group one served as a control and rats in group two exposed to oral intake of artemether daily for fifteen days. The third and fourth groups treated with artemether plus low and high doses of vitamin E respectively. At the end of the experiment, the rats were sacrificed, and the livers were obtained and processed for histological, biochemical and statistical studies. Histological study of the hepatocytes of rats exposed to artemether showed nearly complete disintegration of most cellular contents except few numbers of mitochondria and rough endoplasmic reticulum. Also, the cytoplasm of these cells had few lysosomes, many vacuoles and irregular nuclei with abnormal distribution of chromatin and were shown. The hepatic sinusoids were dilated and filled with blood and vacuoles and bile ductules were abnormal in its structure. Treatment with low and high doses of vitamin E in concomitant with artemether ameliorated the hepatic histopathological lesions and its parenchyma attained nearly normal structure. As far as biochemical changes, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in rats treated with artemether were significantly elevated as compared to the control. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were significantly increased in the liver in rats treated with artemether. However, vitamin E ameliorated the rise in ALT and AST with decreased MDA concentration and levels of SOD as compared to the corresponding artemether group values. Results of the present suggest that artemether has a harmful and stressful effect on hepatic tissue and the treatment with vitamin E may alleviate this toxicity.

Este experimento fue diseñado para estudiar los efectos de la administración oral de arteméter, la clase de medicamentos antipalúdicos de acción rápida, y el posible efecto protector de la vitamina E en el hígado de ratas albinas. Se utilizaron un total de 24 ratas albinas machos adultas y se dividieron en cuatro grupos. El grupo uno sirvió como control y las ratas en el grupo dos recibieron la dosis oral de arteméter diariamente durante 15 días. Los grupos tres y cuatro fueron tratados con arteméter, más dosis bajas y altas de vitamina E, respectivamente. Al final del experimento, se sacrificaron las ratas y se obtuvieron y procesaron los hígados para estudios histológicos, bioquímicos y estadísticos. El estudio histológico de los hepatocitos de ratas expuestas a arteméter mostró una desintegración casi completa de la mayoría de los contenidos celulares, excepto algunos mitocondrias y retículo endoplásmico rugoso. Además, el citoplasma de estas células tenía pocos lisosomas, muchas vacuolas y núcleos irregulares con distribución anormal de cromatina. Los sinusoides hepáticos estaban dilatados y llenos de sangre y vacuolas, y los conductos biliares tenían una estructura anormal. El tratamiento con dosis bajas y altas de vitamina E en forma concomitante con arteméter mejoró las lesiones histopatológicas hepáticas y su parénquima alcanzó una estructura casi normal. En cuanto a los cambios bioquímicos, la alanina aminotransferasa (ALT) y la aspartato aminotransferasa (AST) en ratas tratadas con arteméter se elevaron significativamente en comparación con el control. Los niveles de superóxido dismutasa (SOD) y malondialdehído (MDA) aumentaron significativamente en el hígado en ratas tratadas con arteméter. Sin embargo, la vitamina E mejoró el aumento de ALT y AST con una disminución de la concentración de MDA y los niveles de SOD en comparación con los valores correspondientes del grupo de arteméter. Los resultados del presente estudio sugieren que el arteméter tiene un efecto dañino y estresante sobre el tejido hepático y el tratamiento con vitamina E puede aliviar esta toxicidad.

Ameliorative effect of vitamin E on biochemical and ultrastructural changes in artemether-induced renal toxicity in rats / Efecto paliativo de la vitamina E sobre los cambios bioquímicos y ultraestructurales en la toxicidad renal inducida por arteméter en ratas

This experiment was designed to study the administration of normal doses of one of recent antimalarial drug and coadministration of vitamin E on the kidney tissue. A total twenty-four adult male albino rats were used and divided into four groups: the first one served as a control, the second received artemether orally for three days consecutively. The rats of the third and fourth groups received the same dose of artemether concomitantly with 50 and 100 mg/kg vitamin E orally daily for 2 weeks. After the last dose, the rats were sacrificed and the kidney tissues with blood samples obtained and processed for light, electron microscopic and biochemical analysis. Histologically, artemether treated kidneys showed atrophied glomeruli with widened urinary space and kidney tubules were degenerated with disturbed contour and some vacuoles inside it. Ultrastructurally, the glomeruli of this group showed hypertrophic endothelial cells, irregularity of its basement membrane, disrupted foot processes and filtration slits. The kidney tubule cells showed loss of basal infoldings, cytoplasmic vacuolation, polymorphic damaged swollen mitochondria a loss of its microvilli towards its capillary lumen. Artemether plus vitamin E of the rat kidney groups showed improvement of morphological changes compared to the changes seen in artemether alone. These data were confirmed by biochemical findings with marked improvement of blood urea and creatinine levels and increase of anti-oxidant enzyme activities of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase in the vitamin E treated groups. The results of this study revealed that vitamins E can improve the adverse changes of artemether of rat renal tissue.

Este proyecto fue diseñado para estudiar la administración de dosis normales de uno de los medicamentos antipalúdicos y de la administración de vitamina E en el tejido renal. Se utilizaron 24 ratas albinas machos adultas divididas en cuatro grupos: el primero sirvió como control, el segundo recibió arteméter por vía oral durante tres días consecutivos. Las ratas del tercer y cuarto grupos recibieron la misma dosis de arteméter concomitantemente con 50 y 100 mg / kg de vitamina E por vía oral diariamente durante 2 semanas. Después de la última dosis, las ratas fueron sacrificadas y se obtuvo el tejido renal de cada muestra los cuales fueron procesados para análisis con microscopías de luz y electrónica, además de exámenes bioquímicos. Histológicamente, los riñones tratados con arteméter mostraron atrofia glomerular con espacio urinario ensanchado y túbulos renales degenerados con contorno alterado y algunas vacuolas en su interior. Ultraestructuralmente, los glomérulos de este grupo mostraron células endoteliales hipertróficas, irregularidad de su membrana basal, procesos alterados del pie y hendiduras de filtración. Las células del túbulo renal mostraron pérdida de inflexiones basales, vacuolación citoplasmática, mitocondrias dañadas y pérdida de sus microvellosidades hacia la luz capilar. Arteméter más vitamina E en los grupos de riñón de rata mostraron una mejora de los cambios morfológicos, en comparación con los cambios observados en arteméter solamente. Estos datos fueron confirmados por hallazgos bioquímicos con una marcada mejoría de los niveles de urea y creatinina en sangre y un aumento de las actividades enzimáticas antioxidantes de la glutatión peroxidasa y la superóxido dismutasa en los grupos tratados con vitamina E. Los resultados de este estudio revelaron que la vitamina E puede mejorar los cambios adversos del arteméter del tejido renal de la rata.

Vitamin C administration attenuated artemether induced hepatic injury in rats / La aAdministración de vitamina C atenúa la lesión hepática inducida por artemeter en ratas

This research was designed to investigate the potential protective effect of vitamin C supplementation against hepatocyte ultrastructural alterations induced by artemether (antimalarial drug) administration. Twenty-four adult male albino rats were used in this study and were divided into four groups (n=6). Group I served as a control and rats in group II administrated artemether (4 mg/kg B.W) orally for three consecutive days. Group III administered artemether plus a low dose of vitamin C (2.86 mg/kg/l water) while group IV received artemether plusa high dose of vitamin C (8.56 mg/kg). At the end of the experimental period (14 days), the harvested liver tissues were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and blood samples were assayed for biomarkers of liver injury and oxidative stress. Artemether significantly (p<0.05) augmented biomarkers of liver injury such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and oxidative stress such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPX), and caused degeneration and damage of the rough endoplasmic reticulum and disrupted mitochondria. The blood sinusoids were also damaged with distortion of their canaliculi. Administration of vitamin C showed improvement of liver biomarkers, and liver parenchyma, especially in a high dose of vitamin C.We concludes that vitamin C is a partial protective agent against artemether-induced liver injury.

Esta investigación fue diseñada para investigar el posible efecto protector de la vitamina C contra las alteraciones ultraestructurales de los hepatocitos, inducidas por la administración de arteméter (medicamento antipalúdico). En el estudio se utilizaron 24 ratas albinas macho adultas y se dividieron en cuatro grupos (n = 6). El grupo I fue designado como control y las ratas en el grupo II se adminstró Arteméter (4 mg / kg de peso corporal) por vía oral durante tres días consecutivos. En el grupo III se administró arteméter, además de una dosis baja de vitamina C (2,86 mg / kg / l de agua) mientras que el grupo IV recibió arteméter más una dosis alta de vitamina C (8,56 mg / kg). Al final del período experimental (14 días), los tejidos hepáticos recolectados se examinaron por microscopía electrónica de transmisión (MET), y las muestras de sangre se analizaron en busca de biomarcadores de daño hepático y estrés oxidativo. El arteméter aumentó significativamente (p <0,05) los biomarcadores de daño hepático como alanina aminotransferasa (ALT), aspartato aminotransferasa (AST) y estrés oxidativo como superóxido dismutasa (SOD), glutatión peroxidasa (GPX) y causó degeneración y daño de la retículo endoplásmico rugoso y mitocondrias alteradas. Los sinusoides sanguíneos también fueron dañados con la distorsión de sus canalículos. La administración de vitamina C mostró una mejoría de los biomarcadores hepáticos y el parénquima hepático, especialmente en una dosis alta de vitamina C. Concluimos que la vitamina C es un agente protector parcial contra la lesión hepática inducida por arteméter.

Cultura contemporánea: ciencia y capitalismo, la cuestión de la subjetividad / Contemporary culture: science and capitalism, the question of subjectivity / Cultura contemporânea: ciência e capitalismo, a questão da subjetividade

Se abordará el mundo contemporáneo a través del discurso de la ciencia y el discurso del capitalismo para advertir las consecuencias sobre la subjetividad. El objetivo de este escrito es comprender cómo es forcluido el sujeto por el discurso de la ciencia, vía la ley universal científica y el capitalismo, vía la estandarización de los modos gozar a través de los mismos objetos de consumo. Ambos discursos suponen un "para todos", desconociendo la singularidad del sujeto. Se justifica pensar este asunto en tanto que implica una dimensión ética, ya que en el centro de la reflexión se encuentra el sujeto y su deseo. El tema se desarrolla en tres momentos: En el primero se conceptualizan las características de la ciencia y del sujeto moderno cartesiano, mostrando como desde el método de la ciencia se forcluye al sujeto, paradoja, porque el sujeto de la ciencias es condición de posibilidad para el sujeto del psicoanálisis; En un segundo momento se muestra cómo el discurso del capitalismo realiza un giro con respecto al discurso amo, que coloniza la subjetividad con los objetos de consumo, proponiendo a la diversidad de las satisfacciones humanas los mismos objetos, advirtiendo algunas consecuencias subjetivas. Concluyendo, el psicoanálisis, como reverso de los discursos contemporáneos, tiene como objetivo restituir la singularidad del sujeto, vía el dispositivo clínico, propuesto por Freud y formalizado por Lacan, que tiene como eje central de su experiencia el vínculo transferencial, como aquello que posibilita acoger lo más íntimo del sujeto.

By means of the discourse of science and capitalism the article will address the contemporary world in order to warn of its consequences on subjectivity. The objective of this text is to understand how the discourse of science forcludes the subject by means of the universal, scientific law, capitalism, the standardization of the modes of jouissance through consumer objects. Both discourses suppose a "for all", ignoring the subject's singularity. It is necessary to analyze this topic as it implies an ethical dimension, given that at its heart there is a reflection on the subject and its desire. The article will elaborate the thesis in three moments: in the first moment, the characteristics of science and the Cartesian, modern subject are conceptualized in order to show how the subject is forcluded in the scientific method, which is paradoxical considering that the sceintific subject is the condition that makes possible the psychoanalytic subject; the second moment demonstrates how the discourse of capitalism twists the master discourse, that colonizes the subjectivity with consumer objects as the solution to the diversity of human needs with concomitant subjective consequences; finally, psychoanalysis, the reverse of the contemporary discourses, has as its objective restituting the singularity of the subject by means of the clinical apparatus, proposed by Freud and formalized by Lacan, that has as its central axis of its experience the transferential bond, that permits accommodate the intimacy of the subject.

Vai ser abordado o mundo contemporâneo através do discurso da ciência e o do captilalismo para perceber as consequências sobre a subjetividade. O objetivo deste escrito é compreender como é forcluído o sujeito pelo discurso da ciência por meio da lei universal e do capitalismo, por meio da estandardização dos modos de gozar através dos objetos de consumo. Ambos os discursos supõem um "para todos", desconhecendo a singularidade do sujeito. Pensar esse assunto é justificado na medida em que implica uma dimensão ética, já que no centro da reflexão se encontram o sujeito e seu desejo. O tema é desenvolvido em três momentos. No primeiro, são conceituadas as características da ciência e do sujeito moderno cartesiano, mostrando como a partir do método da ciência se foraclui o sujeito, paradoxo, porque o sujeito da ciência é condição de possibilidade para o sujeito da psicanálise. Em um segundo momento, mostra-se como o discurso do capitalismo faz um giro em relação ao discurso do mestre, que coloniza a subjetividade com os objetos de consumo, propondo à diversidade das satisfações humanas os mesmos objetos, informando algumas consequências subjetivas. Concluindo, a psicanálise, como avesso dos discursos contemporâneos, tem como objetivo restituir a singularidade do sujeito, por meio do dispositivo clínico, proposto por Freud e formalizado por Lacan, que tem como eixo central de sua experiência o vínculo transferencial como aquilo que possibilita acolher o mais íntimo do sujeito.

Ghrelin improves the fine structure of atrial natriuretic factor (ANF) granules and intercalated disc junctions in experimentally-induced myocardial infarction in rats / La grelina mejora las estructuras finas de los gránulos de factor natriurético atrial (ANF) y las uniones intercaladas de disco en el infarto de miocardio inducido experimentalmente en ratas

Ghrelin is a novel growth hormone-releasing peptide administered to treat myocardial infarction (MI). However, the underlying mechanism of its protective effects against MI remains unclear. A total of sixty healthy Sprague Dawley male rats were included. The first one is the sham-operated control group were the rats that underwent the same surgical used to induce MI but without tying the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) and received normal saline (0.5 ml) as vehicle; the second MI model group were rats with LAD ligation and received normal saline (0. 5 ml) and the third one is MI+ghrelin group were rats that were exposed to surgery to induce MI but received ghrelin (100 µ/kg, orally, 2x/day). At the end of the experiment after 21 days post-MI, rats were sacrificed and processed for ultrastructural demonstration. Our experiment showed that ghrelin inhibited cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Concomitant administration of ghrelin with MI treated rats of this study appeared to show a considerable protection of the atrial tissues. This study revealed that the sarcoplasm was occupied by normal myofibrils with clear striations and others appeared with minor disruption. Normal distribution of atrionatriuretic factor (ANF) granules and well preserved mitochondrial integrity (preserved cristae, normal size and shape), nucleus chromatin arrangement and striated pattern of clear bands (Z and H) compared to the MI group. Intact intercalated disc with clear identification of fully formed fascia adherence and desmosomes with a reconstruction of gap junction (nexus) was also noticed. Atrial myocytes after myocardial infarction is often associated with subsequent heart failure, which could lead to a fatal outcome. In a rat model of experimental myocardial infarction, peripheral ghrelin administration attenuated myocyte dysfunction, well-preserved desmosome, adherent and gap junction of the intercalated disc and normally distributed ANF granules.

La grelina es un nuevo péptido liberador de hormona de crecimiento administrado para tratar el infarto de miocardio (IM). Sin embargo, el mecanismo subyacente de sus efectos protectores contra el IM aún no se conocen. Se incluyeron un total de 60 ratas macho Sprague Dawley saludables. En el grupo control se incluyeron ratas que fueron sometidas a una cirugía utilizada para inducir el IM, pero sin ligar la arteria coronaria descendente anterior izquierda (ACDAI) y recibieron suero fisiológico normal (0,5 ml) como vehículo; el segundo grupo modelo de IM fueron ratas con ligadura de ACDAI y recibieron suero fisiológico normal (0,5 ml); el tercer grupo estuvo formado por ratas con IM + grelina, expuestas a la cirugía para inducir IM pero luego recibieron grelina (100 m/kg, oralmente, 2x/día). Al final del experimento, 21 días después del infarto de miocardio, los animales fueron sacrificados y procesados para el estudio ultraestructural. Nuestro experimento mostró que la grelina inhibe la apoptosis de los cardiomiocitos. La administración concomitante de grelina en ratas con IM parece indicar una protección considerable de los tejidos atriales. Además, el estudio reveló que el sarcoplasma estaba ocupado por miofibrillas normales con estriaciones claras y otras con una alteración menor. Se encontró una distribución normal de los gránulos del factor natriurético atrial (FNA) e integridad mitocondrial bien conservada (crestas conservadas, tamaño y forma normales), disposición de la cromatina del núcleo y patrón estriado de bandas claras (Z y H) en comparación con el grupo IM. También se observó un disco intercalado intacto con una clara identificación de la adherencia de la fascia completamente formada y desmosomas con una reconstrucción de la unión gap (nexo). Los miocitos atriales, después de un infarto de miocardio, a menudo se asocian con insuficiencia cardíaca posterior, que podría conducir a un desenlace fatal. En un modelo de rata de infarto de miocardio experimental, la administración de grelina periférica atenuó la disfunción de miocitos, con conservación del desmosoma, adherencia y unión de la brecha del disco intercalado y una distribución normal de los los gránulos de FNA.

Posmodernidad, mirada y virtualidad: sujetos enredados, sujetos mirados / Posmodernity, look, and virtuality: in networking subjects, observed subjects

Resumen El presente artículo reflexivo pretende, desde una perspectiva interpretativa y crítica, realizar un acercamiento al concepto de imagen del mundo en la Posmodernidad y sus vínculos con la virtualidad y la mirada para advertir el tipo de subjetividad que se genera de estas intersecciones a partir del psicoanálisis. El texto presenta una introducción y reflexión inicial, un acápite sobre conceptos psicoanalíticos vinculados a la Posmodernidad y un acápite final sobre discusiones posibles.

Abstract From an interpretative and critical perspective, this paper seeks to make possible an approach to the image of the world concept in Postmodernism and its links with virtuality, as well as a view to warn the kind of subjectivity generated by these intersections from psychoanalysis. The text provides an introduction and an initial reflection, a section on psychoanalytic concepts related to postmodernism and a final subheading on possible discussions.

Radiofrequency catheter ablation of premature ventricular beats among Egyptians: predictors of success and recurrence

Background: Premature ventricular beats [PVBs] are early depolarization of the myocardium originating in the ventricle, the prognosis in patients with frequent PVBs and no obvious organic heart disease is usually very good. However, many patients are severely symptomatic with impaired quality of life

Aim of the study: We aimed at our study to assess the success of radiofrequency catheter ablation of monomorphic PVB and its impact on improvement of left ventricular [LV] systolic functions

Patients and Methods: The current study was conducted on 40 patients with frequent symptomatic monomorphic PVBs, candidate for PVB radiofrequency catheter ablation in cardiology department, Ain Shams University, between 2013 and 2015. All patients were subjected to thorough history taking, complete general and local examination, conventional 2D echocardiography and pre-procedural Holter ECG monitoring. Patients were divided to two groups [20 patients in each group] according to the presence or absence of structural heart disease. Electrophysiological mapping and ablation was done for all patients, and their clinical, electrophysiological and procedural aspects were analyzed. Follow up echocardiography and Holter ECG monitoring was done 3-6 months later to assess recurrence and impact on LV internal dimensions and systolic functions

Results: Acute success was achieved in 35 patients [87.5%], and long term success was achieved in 30 patients [75%], with elimination of PVBs and distressing symptoms among group of patients with procedural success. Presence of structural heart disease was not related statistically to procedural failure or long term recurrence. Magnitude of reduction of PVB burden had significant correlation with improvement of systolic functions [P=0.04]. Significant improvement of echocardiographic parameters was witnessed among group with baseline LV systolic dysfunction

Conclusions: Radiofrequency catheter ablation is an effective and safe therapeutic tool for frequent monomorphic PVBs and should be addressed as 1[st] line option for reversal of PVB induced LV systolic dysfunction

Leptospirosis in animals and human contacts in Egypt: broad range surveillance

INTRODUCTION: Leptospirosis is a re-emerging zoonotic disease of humans and animals worldwide. The disease is caused by pathogenic species of the genus Leptospira. These organisms are maintained in nature via chronic renal infection of carrier animals, which excrete the organisms in their urine. Humans become infected through direct or indirect exposure to infected animals and their urine or through contact with contaminated water and soil. This study was conducted to investigate Leptospira infections as a re-emerging zoonosis that has been neglected in Egypt. METHODS: Samples from 1,250 animals (270 rats, 168 dogs, 625 cows, 26 buffaloes, 99 sheep, 14 horses, 26 donkeys and 22 camels), 175 human contacts and 45 water sources were collected from different governorates in Egypt. The samples were collected from different body sites and prepared for culture, PCR and the microscopic agglutination test (MAT). RESULTS: The isolation rates of Leptospira serovars were 6.9%, 11.3% and 1.1% for rats, dogs and cows, respectively, whereas the PCR results revealed respective detection rates of 24%, 11.3% and 1.1% for rats, dogs and cows. Neither the other examined animal species nor humans yielded positive results via these two techniques. Only six Leptospira serovars (Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pomona, Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Celledoni and Pyrogenes) could be isolated from rats, dogs and cows. Moreover, the seroprevalence of leptospiral antibodies among the examined humans determined using MAT was 49.7%. CONCLUSIONS: The obtained results revealed that rats, dogs and cows were the most important animal reservoirs for leptospirosis in Egypt, and the high seroprevalence among human contacts highlights the public health implications of this neglected zoonosis. .

Self-management among heart failure patients

The purpose of this study was to describe heart failure patient's abilities to manage their disease. A descriptive corelational design was used in this study. A convenient sample of 120 adult patients with heart failure was surveyed using Self-Management of Heart Failure Tool as well as, the New York Heart Association [NYHA] Functional Classification to measure their functional status. The findings of this study showed that sixty percent of patient's age ranged from 50 to less than 60 years. Men accounted for 66.7% of the patient population and 33.3% were women. Most participants were married. The study revealed that recognizing a change in signs and symptoms was positively correlated with both implementing and evaluating treatment with statistical significance. in addition the results showed the statistical significant differences between levels of patients' education and both implementing and evaluating treatment. Finally, statistically significant differences were found between functional status of patients and their ability to recognize change as well as evaluate treatment. Findings of this study highlight the need for using the self management heart failure tool in practice to direct the medical and nursing staff towards the specific problem area for each patient

Development of needs assessment tool for patient undergoing cardiac surgery

Coronary heart disease is the principal type of heart disease. In 2005, 445, 687 people that died from coronary heart disease. That is about 68.3% of all heart disease deaths. It is estimated that about 47% of cardiac deaths occur before emergency services or transport to a hospital. Develop a tool to assess needs of patients undergoing cardiac surgery and test validity, reliability and applicability of the developed tool. This study was conducted in the cardio-surgery units, intensive care unit of cardio- surgery at Ain Shams University Hospital. Available adult patients from both sexes [75 patients], and seven members of jury group from Ain Shams University hospital, Faculty of nursing Ain Shams University. A designed interviewing questionnaire was developed by the researcher to assess needs for patients undergoing cardiac surgery, based on the literature review and expertise, it was validated, reliable and utilized by the researcher to collect the necessary data. This study revealed that the majority of jury group agreed upon face and content validity of the tool. Also showed that high reliability through Alpha Cronbach test, and highly construct validity through factor analysis test. Also the study revealed that the highest need is the psychosocial needs, and the second is spiritual need. This study concluded that it is crucial to assess needs of patients undergoing cardiac surgery, so, there is a continuous need for a valid, reliable, consistent and applicable needs assessment tool for patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Conduct outpatient classes for family members and patients undergoing cardiac surgery to reduce stress of surgery and hospitalization

Undergraduate nursing students' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors toward smoking

Nurses are expected not only to offer care for their patients, but also to model the advice they offer. Although nurses have an important role in health promotion and are well placed to see the harmful effects of tobacco smoking, Studies suggested that they smoke at much the same rate as other people of similar age and socio-economic status. The purpose of this study was to assess undergraduate nursing students' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors towards smoking. As well as to determine undergraduate nursing students' level of nicotine dependence. A descriptive cross sectional study design was used in this study. All undergraduate nursing students at a private University in Jordan were surveyed in academic year 2005/ 2006 by using the Smoking and Health Promotion Questionnaire and Fagerstrom test for nicotine dependence [FTND]. The findings of this study showed that more than half of the students [54.7%] were smokers and all of the smoker students were male. The majority of them commenced their smoking habit while in secondary school. Students had greater generic than specialized knowledge about the harmful effects of smoking on health. Non-smokers were more supportive of non-smokers' rights than those who continued to smoke. No statistically significant correlation was found between level of knowledge and attitudes towards smoking. Friends were an important influence on the decision to commence smoking. Most smokers wanted to cease smoking, and many had tried unsuccessfully to stop on one or more occasions. They conceded that the effects of stress, peer pressure and the pleasure they obtained from smoking acted as barriers to stopping. More than one third [39%] of the smokers had a high level of nicotine dependence as indicated by the total FTND score. Results of this study may provide base line data to develop an anti-smoking program for nursing students