Multidisciplinary & Health Education Journal

Universal Design for Mexican Learning Groups (DUgA-M): An Inclusion Proposal for the New Mexican School

David Vitte Viveros — 2026-06-16

In the context of the New Mexican School (NEM), education, understood in its deepest, most human, and transformative sense, can no longer be defined by traditional, homogeneous, and decontextualized pedagogical practices that serve foreign models and ignore the voices and subjectivities of diversity. In times of profound social inequality, persistent exclusion, and educational challenges, the need to rethink our pedagogical practices from a community-based perspective becomes urgent. This article analyzes the Universal Design for Mexican Learning Groups (DUgA-M) project, aiming to generate a profound reflection on its principles in order to envision it as an alternative for pedagogical work and provide a foundation for future research. The study adopts a socio-critical research approach centered on documentary analysis. The main findings reveal that the DUgA-M project is a proposal grounded in the epistemological rigor of the New Mexican Education Model (NEM). The consistency of its logical-theoretical structure can have a positive impact on student learning and holistic development. It offers a flexible, innovative, and viable framework for teachers to create inclusive experiences from a decolonial perspective. It contributes to the construction of a distinct pedagogical identity rooted in our Mexican realities.

A Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) Project: "Educational Management and Soft Skill Development"

Andrés Felipe Gallego-Hurtado — 2026-06-16

Within the context of globalization and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, internationalization strategies in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have become one of the most outstanding aspects in the field of education, as a response to the dynamics generated by the process of globalization. During 2024, a University from Peru and a University from Colombia designed, implemented, and evaluated the implementation of a project using the COIL methodology, based on knowledge exchange, experiences, soft skill development and competencies mediated by ICTs. The general objective was to develop competencies and skills in professionals in educational management in a COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) context. The idea was to promote continuous improvement in educational processes and foster collaboration and internationalization in the management of educational institutions. The study focuses on the collaborative construction of knowledge about skills, knowledge, and competencies in the practical course: "Practicum in Educational Management." Methodologically, the sample consisted of 41 students enrolled in the professional practicum. Due to the nature of the project, a qualitative research paradigm was applied to describe and explain the social phenomenon, using two data collection instruments: 1) documentary analysis, and 2) survey. During the project implementation, a strengthening of soft skills such as critical and reflective thinking, teamwork, creativity, empathy, and problem-solving, through participation in collaborative activities and intercultural exchanges was found among the participants. This fostered an environment of respect, appreciation of diversity, and the construction of harmonious and productive relationships in a globalized setting within a virtual learning environment. A finding of the COIL project was an effective strategy in shifting from traditional practices to the creation of innovative learning environments in Higher Education Institutions. This enhances the development of 21^st Century skills and competencies in future education professionals.

Exhalation Fraction of Nitric Oxide (FENO) as a biomarker of airway inflammation in asthmatic adults from Valencia, Venezuela, 2025

Milagro Nóbrega de Maggi — 2026-06-16

Background. Asthma is a heterogeneous disease characterized by chronic airway inflammation, the diagnosis of which is critical for the patient's favorable outcome. Since it can be confused with other conditions, recently, the determination of Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) has been used to identify the asthma subtype or to evaluate the therapy in place. Objective: To determine FeNO levels in a cohort of adult asthmatic patients seen at the Pulmonology clinic at the "La Viña" Polyclinic Center, Valencia, during the period September-October 2025. Material and Methods: Descriptive, observational, and cross-sectional study. Seventeen asthmatic patients were evaluated (61% women, 39% men) with ages ranging from 18 to 80 years. Measurements were carried out using the portable electrochemical device NObreath® following international standards. FeNO levels were categorized as: Low (<25 ppb), Intermediate (25-50 ppb), and High (>50 ppb). Results: 100% of patients had FeNO levels above 25 ppb. 35% (n=6) were in the intermediate range, while 65% (n=11) had high levels (>50 ppb), indicative of a significant eosinophilic inflammatory response. Conclusions: The high frequency of elevated FeNO levels in the sample suggests a persistence of airway inflammation, highlighting its usefulness for clinical monitoring and therapeutic adjustment in asthmatic patients in our setting.

Research Training in High School: Benefits and Impact on Students' Academic Skills

Isabel Marina Anchundia Delgado — 2026-06-21

Research is a mandatory task at all levels of education, from the beginning of primary school to higher grades. Therefore, defining appropriate strategies for achieving these goals is linked to developing educational plans that meet these requirements. The overall objective of this research was to design strategies that promote research training in high school to enhance and improve students' academic skills. The research methodology is framed within the quantitative paradigm. A survey with a dichotomous questionnaire was used, with the options: agree/disagree. To achieve the study's objective, inclusion criteria were applied to the sample of 325 students from the Science High School. The population and sample consisted of 325 students from grades 1 through 3 at the Science High School. The results allowed us to infer that the development of skills and abilities in the investigative area is being limited by the absence of timely didactic strategies that lead to the establishment of purposeful investigative goals, so the competencies that students are expected to achieve will be proportional to the promotion of plans and methods by the teacher in charge of the instructional plan.

Smart Classrooms and Academic Performance in Medical Students at the Universidad Privada Abierta Latinoamericana in Cochabamba, Bolivia

Rommer Alex Ortega-Martínez — 2026-07-06

Introduction: Smart classrooms represent an educational innovation strategy aimed at integrating technological resources, pedagogical interaction, and more dynamic learning environments. However, their perceived usefulness and relationship with academic performance require context-specific evidence in medical education. This study aimed to evaluate the perceived usefulness of smart classrooms and its association with academic performance among medical students at a private university in Cochabamba, Bolivia. Methods: An observational, analytical, comparative, cross-sectional study was conducted among 153 medical students, distributed between smart classrooms n = 77 and traditional classrooms n = 76. A structured questionnaire with Likert-type items was administered to assess technological use, motivation, participation, perceived learning, satisfaction/recommendation, teaching innovation, and global usefulness. Academic performance was measured using the authorized final grade. Between-group comparisons, effect sizes, adjusted linear models, and logistic regression for high perceived usefulness were performed. Results: Students in smart classrooms showed higher mean scores across all perceptual dimensions. The largest differences were observed in technological use d = 1.149 and global usefulness d = 0.887. The proportion of students reporting high perceived usefulness was greater in smart classrooms than in traditional classrooms 75.3% vs. 51.3%, and this association remained significant after adjustment for age and sex adjusted OR = 2.57; 95% CI: 1.24-5.30; p = 0.011. No robust association was observed between classroom type and final grade. Discussion: Smart classrooms were associated with a better perception of educational usefulness, although no consistent evidence of improvement in academic performance was found.

Early vs Late Hybrid Percutaneous Tracheostomy in Intensive Care: A Bolivian Retrospective Cohort Study

Rommer Alex Ortega-Martinez — 2026-07-07

Introduction: Hybrid tracheostomy combines surgical and percutaneous techniques and is most commonly used in intensive care units with limited resources. However, uncertainty remains regarding the optimal timing of its placement. Objective: To evaluate whether early (≤ 7 days) versus late (> 7 days) hybrid tracheostomy is associated with in-hospital mortality, live discharge, and days alive out of the hospital (DAOH) in critically ill patients on mechanical ventilation. Materials and methods: Retrospective cohort study of consecutive adult patients on mechanical ventilation admitted to the intensive care unit of a tertiary hospital in Cochabamba, Bolivia. A total of 161 patients who underwent hybrid tracheostomy (single dilation, Blue Rhino type, Portex cannula, and Griggs clamp support) were included. The procedure was performed early or late, according to the treating team's judgment. The primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality, live discharge, 28- and 60-day long-term use of a tracheostomy tube (LTT), and tracheostomy-related complications. Results: Early tracheostomy was associated with a higher cumulative incidence of live discharge (subhazard ratio [sHR] 1.25; 95% CI 1.01–1.55) and an increased risk of in-hospital death (sHR 1.35; 95% CI 1.02–1.80). The complication rate was low. Long-term use of a LTT at 28 and 60 days was higher in the early group (LTT-60: 15.8 vs. 8.1 days). Discussion: Early hybrid tracheostomy is associated with faster resolution of the hospital stay and longer use of a LTT. Conclusion: The increased mortality may reflect indication bias in more severely ill patients. Decisions regarding the optimal timing should be individualized.

Differential Diagnosis of Hand Masses: Clinical Implications of a Tenosynovial Tumor Mimicking a Synovial Cyst

María Eugenia Rosales Omaña — 2026-06-18

Localized tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TGCT) is one of the most common benign neoplasms of the hand, often mimicking cystic lesions and posing diagnostic challenges in orthopedic practice. The aim of this study is to describe a clinical case and analyze the implications of differential diagnosis in soft tissue masses. A 51-year-old female patient presented with a space-occupying lesion in the right middle finger, initially suspected as a synovial cyst. During surgical excision, a solid mass was identified, and histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation confirmed a localized TGCT, with positivity for CD45 (70%) and CD68 (20%) and absence of malignancy markers. This case highlights that isolated clinical interpretation may lead to diagnostic bias, emphasizing the importance of complementary studies. As a limitation, this is a single-case descriptive study. It is concluded that clinicopathological and immunophenotypic integration improves diagnostic accuracy, guides surgical management, and reduces recurrence risk.

Teaching Science to 21st-Century Adolescents: An Innovative Perspective on Chemical Learning

Franklin Jesús López Gómez — 2026-06-15

This study highlights the importance of integrating science and education to motivate adolescents to use their scientific knowledge as a tool for social change, supported by important educational theories. Science in the 21st century faces unprecedented challenges that require more flexible and collaborative approaches. This academic article examines the goals of modern science and how it has evolved into a more interdisciplinary and accessible discipline, emphasizing its importance in the field of chemistry. Advances in technologies and documentary methodologies that allow scientists to address complex problems in innovative ways are explored. Chemistry benefits greatly from this, as researchers increasingly work with biologists, physicists, and engineers to develop comprehensive solutions to modern problems. Active scientific learning methods, the incorporation of technology, and the importance of fostering innate scientific curiosity are discussed. Overall, science education, and specifically chemistry education, for children and adolescents must evolve to reflect the demands of the 21st century. By adopting more active approaches, interactive technologies, and fostering scientific curiosity, educators can nurture young minds capable of meeting the diverse challenges of the future. Likewise, the urgent need to modernize chemistry education is highlighted to inspire and equip future generations with the skills necessary to address the scientific and environmental challenges of tomorrow.

Earth Day in Scientific Practice: A Holistic Perspective from the G.H.C.

Franklin Jesús López Gómez — 2026-06-15

Earth Day (April 22) represents a global milestone for reflecting on the relationship between humanity and the planet. Today, the planet has been a central element in human history, acting not only as a basic resource for subsistence but also as the foundation of social, economic, and cultural structures. This study aims to explore the importance of the Earth from various perspectives, drawing on ten theoretical frameworks that have addressed its meaning and impact on society. Its relevance in scientific practice is analyzed using a holistic-documentary methodology, integrating perspectives from Earth sciences, environmental education, and climate policy. Earth sciences (geology, meteorology, oceanography) provide critical evidence on climate change, biodiversity loss, and soil degradation (IPCC, 2021). Earth Day acts as a catalyst for: Science outreach: Data-driven campaigns (e.g., IPCC reports). Applied research: Studies on natural disaster mitigation (NOAA, 2020). This study examines the contributions of Earth Day to scientific research, outreach, and collective action, concluding with recommendations to strengthen its impact on global sustainability. It synthesizes, for the first time, the role of Earth Day in scientific research within a holistic framework, proposing connections between academia, policy, and civil society. The urgent need for conservation policies to protect these vital ecosystems is emphasized.

Migration in the context of human rights: From the perspective of the film Adu

Eladia Marcano de Blanco — 2026-06-15

The purpose of the following essay is to analyze migration in the context of human rights, from a critical perspective, based on the film Adú. It is a film directed by Salvador Calvo, with music by Roque Baños and photography by Sergio Villanova. Moustapha Oumarou stars in the film as Adú. This film takes place between Europe and África, specifically between Cameroon, Melilla and Spain. For the analysis, international instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) the Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (1966), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (1966), the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (1986), the European Commission on Human Rights (1953), the Convention on the Rights of Man (1789), and the conceptualization of migrants, refugees and asylum seekers were taken into account. It is an analytical documentary work. It was concluded that Adú's film sends a message to both citizens and countries that human rights must be respected, such as freedom, non-discrimination, the right to life, freedom of expression, as well as the international principles of interdependence, indivisibility, progressiveness, equality and dignity, since the film reflects a situation that occurs not only in Spain but in most states, where human rights are violated without taking into account international treaties and conventions on human rights.

A Theoretical Approach to the Educational Praxis of Secondary School Teachers in Rural Contexts

Milagros Marcano — 2026-06-18

The educational praxis of secondary school teachers in rural contexts faces a series of challenges and opportunities that are fundamental to the comprehensive education of students and the development of local communities. Education in rural settings must be adapted to the realities and needs of the community, integrating local culture, traditions, and economic activities such as agriculture, livestock farming, and handicrafts. These elements enable more relevant and meaningful learning, provided that teachers are adequately trained to address them. However, rural communities often face challenges in accessing quality education, making it necessary to implement inclusive educational strategies that address and integrate cultural diversity, local traditions, and economic conditions. In this regard, the main purpose of this research was to explore the educational practice of secondary school teachers in the Venezuelan rural context, specifically in the state of Aragua. The study was conducted using a qualitative approach under the post-positivist paradigm and was guided by Van Manen’s (2003) hermeneutic phenomenological method. The analysis included coding, categorization, comparison and contrast, and interpretation of the findings. Triangulation was applied by integrating theoretical contributions, previous research findings, and the researcher’s perspective. The conclusions highlight the need to contextualize teacher training for rural educational settings and to integrate educational technologies that facilitate access to information and learning. It is also important to emphasize the relevance of educational policies in rural areas, which should promote a greater diversity of educational resources and increased investment in infrastructure. Furthermore, teacher training programs should focus on methodologies aligned with rural contexts in order to strengthen the theoretical foundations of rural teaching praxis.

Towards a Feeling-Thinking Epistemology of Communication

Eladia Marcano de Blanco — 2026-06-19

This essay aims to analyze the sentient-thinking epistemology of communication. It begins by examining the epistemological perspectives of philosophers such as Plato, Aristotle, René Descartes, David Hume, Immanuel Kant, Karl Popper, John Locke, Imre Lakatos, Larry Laudan, Hans Gadamer, Thomas Kuhn, and Paul Feyerabend. The essay then explains the general principles of epistemology, the origins of the term "sentient-thinking," the relationship between epistemology and communication, and paradigms of communication research. It concludes that communication is, ultimately, the space where we become human alongside others; therefore, we must defend its critical study, which means defending our own freedom to be and to feel in an increasingly automated world. Communication opens doors for us, and in this era, we cannot remain isolated; we must recognize others in order to forge new paths.

Relationship between Society, Law, Politics, State and Ethics, in the Context of Euthanasia and Eugen

Eladia Marcano de Blanco — 2026-06-21

This essay aims to critically analyze the relationship between society, law, politics, the state, and ethics in the context of euthanasia and eugenics, considering the specific circumstances of each country. To this end, the ethical positions of philosophers such as Thomas Aquinas and Aristotle were examined, along with dictionaries, documents, and legal foundations from countries including Colombia, Argentina, Spain, Mexico, China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Venezuela. An exhaustive search of relevant documents was conducted. This is a critical and reflective analytical essay, which concludes that euthanasia and eugenics are methods applied in some countries depending on legal regulations. Therefore, the state, law, politics, society, and ethics must all be involved. Opinions for and against both euthanasia and eugenics are diverse, and religions, in particular, do not accept these practices, considering them discriminatory.

Voices of Silence: The Phenomenological Categorization of the Research Experience among Nursing Students

Mauri Josefina León Meza — 2026-07-09

This phenomenological-hermeneutic qualitative study explores the lived experience of nursing students during their training as novice researchers. Through in-depth interviews and interpretive thematic analysis, four essential categories structuring this process were revealed: 1) The knot in the throat, disclosing the embodied dimension of the challenge; 2) The broken mirror, exposing the gap between the ideal researcher and the real self; 3) The crack in the system, uncovering criticisms of institutional structures; and 4) Weaving networks, identifying coping and resilience strategies. It is concluded that research training is an existential rite of passage demanding a comprehensive pedagogy of accompaniment in graduate studies, focused on emotional, identity, and social dimensions.

The Phenomenological–Hermeneutic Approach in Educational Research: An Application to the Study of Research Culture in Nursing

Mauri Josefina León Meza — 2026-07-09

This article analyzes the relevance of the phenomenological-hermeneutic approach for studying research culture in nursing education. Its philosophical framework and methodological procedures are examined, discussing its applicability for capturing the lived experience of novice researchers. The analysis reveals that this perspective provides a powerful framework for understanding subjective and emotional dimensions of the research training process, adding depth to a phenomenon traditionally approached from quantitative perspectives. It concludes by highlighting its value for informing mentorship and accompaniment designs in graduate studies

The Weakening of Critical Thinking in University Students in Contexts of Information Overload and Generative AI Use

Claudia Luz Navarro-Villarruel — 2026-06-16

This documentary research analyzes the relationship between the use of generative artificial intelligence and the development of critical thinking in higher education students, within a context characterized by information overload. A qualitative, documentary approach with a descriptive-interpretative scope and critical orientation was adopted, based on a systematic review of scientific literature published between 2018 and 2026 in indexed databases. The final corpus included 13 relevant studies, analyzed through thematic categorization focusing on critical thinking, digital literacy, artificial intelligence use, and cognitive offloading. Findings indicate that the relationship between artificial intelligence and critical thinking is neither linear nor deterministic, but rather mediated by variables such as digital literacy, academic self-efficacy, academic stress, and pedagogical practices. Evidence suggests that intensive and uncritical use of these technologies may promote technological dependence and cognitive offloading, reducing cognitive effort. It is concluded that the weakening of critical thinking is not solely attributable to artificial intelligence use, but to its integration within educational contexts that fail to promote reflective analysis. The study highlights the need to reconfigure pedagogical practices toward the development of higher-order cognitive skills.

Effectiveness of Breastfeeding as an Analgesic During Vaccination: A Systematic Review

Gabriela Alejandra Córdova Guzmán — 2026-06-17

Introduction: Vaccination is the most frequent and repeated painful procedure during infancy. The stress resulting from inadequate management of acute pain can trigger future anxiety and avoidance of healthcare. The objective of this study is to analyze the scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of breastfeeding as an analgesic strategy to mitigate pain caused by immunization in infants. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA statement guidelines. The search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, and SciELO databases, covering the period from 2015 to 2025. Randomized clinical trials and quasi-experimental studies using validated pain scales in children under six months of age weighing over 1 kg were included. Results: From 25 identified articles, 7 studies were selected, encompassing a total sample of 874 children. The most frequently used measurement scales were NIPS and MBPS. The evidence confirmed that breastfeeding significantly decreases pain scores and accelerates the stabilization of vital signs compared to control groups, even demonstrating superiority over methods such as music therapy or the administration of oral sucrose. Conclusions: Breastfeeding represents a safe, accessible, and highly effective non-pharmacological method for controlling pain induced by vaccination. Its routine implementation in pediatric clinical practice must be actively promoted.

Prevalence and associated factors of diaper dermatitis in the pediatric population: a systematic review 2020-2026

María Verónica Tauil Ortega — 2026-06-17

Diaper dermatitis remains one of the most common dermatological conditions in infants. Objective: To synthesize evidence from 2020–2026 regarding prevalence and associated factors of DD. Methods: A PRISMA‑guided systematic review was conducted using PubMed, SciELO, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Studies involving children aged 0–24 months and reporting prevalence or risk factors were included. Results: Prevalence ranged from 7% to 50%, with a peak at 6–12 months. Key factors included diaper‑changing frequency, hygiene, skin pH alterations, antibiotic exposure, and feeding practices. Conclusion: DD remains a highly prevalent condition despite technological advances in diapers. Prevention strategies and caregiver education remain essential.

Association between Peripheral α-Defensins and Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review

Samuel Alejandro Lucano Tello — 2026-07-03

Background: Schizophrenia is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder whose pathophysiology extends beyond classical neurotransmitter dysfunction to include immune and inflammatory mechanisms. Among emerging biomarkers, peripheral α-defensins have attracted attention because of their role in innate immunity. Objective: To systematically summarize the available evidence regarding the association between peripheral α-defensins and schizophrenia and to assess their potential as neuroimmune biomarkers. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library were searched using terms related to schizophrenia, α-defensins, biomarkers, inflammation, and innate immunity. Observational studies involving human participants that evaluated peripheral α-defensins were included. Results: A total of 1,205 records were identified, but only one study met the predefined eligibility criteria. This study reported significantly increased peripheral α-defensin levels in patients with schizophrenia and intermediate concentrations in unaffected monozygotic twins, suggesting that these peptides may reflect biological susceptibility rather than disease activity alone. Indirect evidence involving other defensins further supports the contribution of innate immune dysregulation to severe mental disorders. Conclusions: Peripheral α-defensins appear to be promising candidate biomarkers for schizophrenia; however, current evidence remains scarce and is insufficient for clinical application. Additional well-designed prospective, multicenter, and longitudinal studies are required to validate their diagnostic and prognostic value and to clarify their role in the neuroimmune mechanisms underlying schizophrenia.

Diagnostic Errors and Delayed Diagnosis of Autoimmune Encephalitis in Young Patients: Focus on Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis

Samuel Alejandro Lucano Tello — 2026-07-04

Autoimmune encephalitis is an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system that is potentially reversible when recognized and treated promptly. Among its subtypes, anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis is one of the leading causes of autoimmune encephalitis in children, adolescents, and young adults; however, diagnosis is frequently delayed because early manifestations are predominantly psychiatric. The aim of this narrative review was to analyze the main causes of diagnostic errors and delayed recognition of this disorder while summarizing a practical clinical approach for its early identification. A review of recent literature, including narrative reviews, observational studies, and clinical practice recommendations, was conducted to evaluate diagnostic criteria, clinical manifestations, and therapeutic strategies. Current evidence indicates that misdiagnosis as a primary psychiatric disorder, delayed cerebrospinal fluid antibody testing, and underrecognition of neurological warning signs are the main contributors to delayed diagnosis. Early clinical suspicion and timely initiation of immunotherapy are consistently associated with improved functional recovery and reduced long-term neurological disability.

Artificial Intelligence in the Transformation of Nursing Education: A Critical Analysis from the Competency Model

Mauri Josefina León Meza — 2026-07-09

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in health sciences, specifically in nursing education, represents a disruptive milestone in professional training. This article provides a critical analysis of recent scientific literature regarding the use, challenges, and teaching perceptions of AI in educational environments. Through the interpretative lens of Patricia Benner's competency acquisition model, we reflect on how generative AI tools act as cognitive assistants. The methodology was based on a hermeneutic design of critical documentary review. It is concluded that while AI optimizes adaptive learning and decision-making, pedagogical practice must safeguard the ethics of care and reflective humanism, ensuring that technology enhances rather than replaces the critical thinking of future nurses.

Systemic Endothelial Dysfunction as a Common Pathophysiological Axis of Cardiovascular, Renal, and Metabolic Disease: From Subclinical Damage to Progressive Organ Failure

Samuel Alejandro Lucano Tello — 2026-07-10

Endothelial dysfunction is a central pathophysiological mechanism driving the progression of cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic diseases by promoting inflammation, oxidative stress, thrombogenicity, and vascular homeostasis impairment. This narrative review aimed to examine the role of the endothelium as the unifying axis of the cardio-renal-metabolic continuum, describing its molecular mechanisms, clinical manifestations, early biomarkers, and current therapeutic implications. A structured literature review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science, complemented by high-impact clinical guidelines and review articles. Current evidence indicates that reduced nitric oxide bioavailability, increased reactive oxygen species production, and activation of inflammatory pathways contribute to the concurrent development of atherosclerosis, chronic kidney disease, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. In addition, biomarkers such as albuminuria and endothelial adhesion molecules enable the early identification of subclinical vascular injury. Recognizing endothelial dysfunction as a systemic process provides a comprehensive framework for prevention, risk stratification, and therapeutic strategies aimed at preserving vascular integrity and delaying progression to overt organ failure.

Diagnostic Scales for Thyroid Storm in the Latin American Population: Clinical Utility, Limitations, and Regional Evidence. A Structured Narrative Review

Samuel Alejandro Lucano Tello — 2026-07-13

Thyroid storm is a rare but life-threatening endocrine emergency whose diagnosis continues to rely on the integration of clinical judgment and diagnostic scoring systems rather than on a single confirmatory test [1][2]. Over the past decades, the most widely used diagnostic tools have been the Burch-Wartofsky Point Scale (BWPS) and the Japanese Thyroid Association (JTA) criteria, both of which offer important conceptual strengths but also present limitations related to subjectivity, clinical heterogeneity, and the absence of a universally accepted reference standard [1][2]. The aim of this structured narrative review is to synthesize the available evidence regarding the clinical utility, applicability, and limitations of thyroid storm diagnostic scales in the Latin American population by integrating regional evidence with the international literature [1][2][3]. The review found that the Latin American scientific literature consists primarily of case series, retrospective cohorts, and case reports, which provide valuable information on patterns of scale utilization and agreement but do not support a formal assessment of diagnostic accuracy [4][5][6][7].

Knowledge and Practices Regarding Biosafety Measures Among Emergency Healthcare Professionals at the University Hospital of Maracaibo

Cesar A. Rosales-Araujo — 2026-06-17

Introduction: To determine the level of knowledge and practices regarding biosafety measures among physicians working in the Emergency Department of the University Hospital of Maracaibo. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, non-experimental, quantitative, and cross-sectional study was conducted in April 2026. The population consisted of 280 physicians, and a convenience sample of 50 physicians present during the study period was selected. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire to assess knowledge and an observational checklist to evaluate practices. Data were analyzed using frequencies and percentages. Results: A total of 58% of participants demonstrated deficient knowledge, while 18% showed good knowledge. In contrast, 70% exhibited adequate biosafety practices. The Internal Medicine Department had the highest proportion of physicians with good knowledge levels. Discussion: A discrepancy was observed between theoretical knowledge and actual practices, as well as variations among medical specialties when compared with findings from regional studies. Conclusions: Although most physicians demonstrated insufficient knowledge of biosafety measures, the majority complied with appropriate practices. Targeted educational interventions aimed at younger physicians are recommended.

Networked Minds: An Analysis of Social Plasticity and Mutual Support in Virtual Teacher Training Programs

Iván Gómez Samudio — 2026-06-22

Teacher training in virtual environments has historically underestimated the impact of social isolation on the brain architecture of educators. This article investigates the intersection between social neuroplasticity and virtual learning environments at the "Claustro Gómez" school. Through a qualitative methodology of experience systematization, it analyzes how spaces for emotional release act as neurochemical regulators. The results suggest that technology-mediated mutual support not only improves mental health but also optimizes synaptic connectivity by reducing allostatic load, proposing a new pedagogical paradigm based on the collective neural network.

The Decline of the Knowledge Monopoly: The Teacher as a Mediator and Communicator in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Iván Gómez Samudio — 2026-06-22

This article analyzes the crisis of pedagogical authority arising from the informational asymmetry between traditional educators and students equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI). Through qualitative observation in reserved teacher-training environments, it documents the gap between classic teaching techniques and real-time data verification by students. It argues that the new teaching profile must abandon the pretense of "absolute truth" to adopt a dual competence: technical mastery of digital tools and rhetorical mastery (persuasion). In doing so, the educator positions themselves as a critical mediator rather than a mere repository of information.

From Operational Calculation to Phenomenological Simulation: Redefining Physics Education in the 21st Century

Iván Gómez Samudio — 2026-06-22

This article challenges the hegemony of manual numerical calculation as the central axis of physics education. It argues that, in the 21st century, the mental agility derived from arithmetic operations is insufficient if it is not integrated with textual analysis and data interpretation. A disruptive four-stage methodology is proposed: Visualization, Exposition, Inquiry, and Mathematical Simulation. The objective is to transmute rote learning into meaningful learning, where the student is not merely a "calculator" but an interpreter of natural laws through the use of technological simulation tools.