Environmentally Friendly UV Absorbers: Synthetic Characterization and Biosecurity Studies of the Host-Guest Supramolecular Complex.

Isoamyl 4-methoxycinnamate (IMC) is widely used in various fields because of its exceptional UV-filter properties. However, due to its cytotoxicity and anti-microbial degradability, the potential eco-environmental toxicity of IMC has become a focus of attention. In this study, we propose a host-guest supramolecule approach to enhance the functionality of IMC, resulting in a more environmentally friendly and high-performance materials. Sulfobutyl-ß-cyclodextrin sodium salt (SBE-ß-CD) was used as the host molecule. IMC-SBE-ß-CD supramolecular substances were prepared through the "saturated solution method", and their properties and biosecurity were evaluated. Meanwhile, we conducted the AOS tree evaluation system that surpasses existing evaluation approaches based on apoptosis, oxidative stress system, and signaling pathways to investigate the toxicological mechanisms of IMC-SBE-ß-CD within human hepatoma SMMC-7721 cells as model organisms. The AOS tree evaluation system aims to offer the comprehensive analysis of the cytotoxic effects of IMC-SBE-ß-CD. Our findings showed that IMC-SBE-ß-CD had an encapsulation rate of 84.45% and optimal stability at 30 °C. Further, IMC-SBE-ß-CD promoted cell growth and reproduction without compromising the integrity of mitochondria and nucleus or disrupting oxidative stress and apoptosis-related pathways. Compared to IMC, IMC-SBE-ß-CD is biologically safe and has improved water solubility with the UV absorption property maintained. Our study provides the foundation for the encapsulation of hydrophobic, low-toxicity organic compounds using cyclodextrins and offers valuable insights for future research in this field.

First findings of Sarcocystis species in game deer and feral pigs in Australia.

Several wild game meat species, including deer and feral pigs are hunted and consumed in Australia. Feral pigs and deer are not indigenous to Australia, but they have proliferated extensively and established their presence in every state and territory. Following the report of a sambar deer displaying Sarcocystis like white cysts in its rump muscles, the present study was conducted to explore the prevalence of Sarcocystis infections in wild deer and feral pigs in the southeastern regions of Australia. Oesophagus, diaphragm, and heart tissue from 90 deer and eight feral pigs were examined visually for sarcocysts. All results were negative. PCR testing of randomly selected deer and feral pigs yielded positive results, which were subsequently supported by histopathology. This is the first study to report the presence of Sarcocystis spp. in deer and feral pigs in Australia. As no visual cysts were found on the heart or oesophagus that came back positive with PCR, infected animals, particularly those reared free-range, could be passing through meat quality checks unidentified. If people consume this meat without cooking it properly, it may lead to a human infection of Sarcocystis. However, a more targeted study focused on determining the parasite's prevalence and assessing its risks is necessary to determine if it constitutes a food safety issue. As this species has been found not only in feral pigs but also in domestic pigs, the potential for infection spreading between feral pigs and pigs in free-range livestock systems is high, potentially posing a large problem for the Australian pork industry, particularly with the increased emphasis on free-range pig husbandry. Future studies should concentrate on determining the species of Sarcocystis in feral animals commonly consumed as game meat to determine potential zoonotic risks. This could also include a more in-depth look at the prevalence of Sarcocystis infections in other game animals. Identifying where these parasites are present and to what extent, are important areas for future studies.

Assessment of attributes for choosing a dental center in Trujillo, Peru: patients versus dentists / Valoración de los atributos para la elección de un centro odontológico en Trujillo, Perú: pacientes versus odontólogos

Objective: To determine the difference between patients and dentists regarding the assessment of attributes for choosing a dental center in Trujillo, Peru. Materials and Methods: A comparative cross-sectional observational study was conducted involving a sample of 162 dentists and 162 patients from the Trujillo province in Peru. The data was collected through a virtual questionnaire, validated by experts, and assessed for reliability. Statistical analysis was performed using the U-Mann Whitney and Spearman correlation tests, with a significance level set at 5%. Results: Patients, in comparison to dentists, demonstrated a greater preference for selecting a dental center where the practitioner is a recognized specialist (p<0.001). Similarly, patients showed a preference for centers offering expedited appointments, advanced technology, and equipment, providing affordable and flexible payment options, free consultations, and having convenient parking and comfortable facilities (p<0.05). Conversely, dentists perceived that the most valued attribute by patients is the recommendation of the dentist (p=0.031). Conclusions: When choosing a dental center, patients primarily value attributes related to both the professional responsible for care and administrative management. Conversely, dentists consider the main factor influencing a patient's choice of dental center to be recommendations of the dentist. Valoración de los atributos para la elección de un centro odontológico en Trujillo, Perú: pacientes versus odontólogos

Objetivo: Determinar la diferencia entre pacientes y odontólogos con respecto a la valoración de atributos para la elección de un centro odontológico en Trujillo. Materiales y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional transversal comparativo con una muestra de 162 odontólogos y 162 pacientes de la provincia Trujillo (Perú). La data fue recogida a través de un cuestionario virtual, sometido a validación por expertos y prueba de confiabilidad. El análisis estadístico se realizó mediante las pruebas U-Mann Whitney y correlación de Spearman, considerando un nivel de significancia del 5%. Resultado: Los pacientes, con respecto a los odontólogos, mostraron mayor valoración para la elección del centro odontológico cuando el profesional es especialista y reconocido (p<0.001); así mismo, cuando se le brindan citas rápidas, se usa tecnología y equipamiento adecuados, se brindan facilidades de pago con precios bajos y consultas gratuitas, y el centro cuenta con estacionamiento y espacios cómodos (p<0.05). Por su parte, los odontólogos consideran que el atributo más valorado por los pacientes es que el profesional sea recomendado (p=0.031). Conclusión: Para la elección del centro odontológico, los pacientes valoraron en mayor medida los atributos relacionados al profesional responsable de la atención y la gestión administrativa. Por otro lado, los odontólogos consideraron preferentemente que el atributo principal para la elección del centro odontológico por parte del paciente es que el odontólogo haya sido recomendado.

Evaluation of ATP bioluminescence for rapid determination of cleanliness of livestock trailers after a commercial wash.

Pathogens such as porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRSV), and E. coli are known to spread by contaminated vehicles and equipment. Pork producers have adopted trailer wash policies where each trailer is washed, disinfected, and dried before it can return to a farm. Cleanliness of livestock trailers after washing is determined by visual inspection rather than any objective method. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence is used in many industries to provide real-time feedback on surface cleanliness through the detection of ATP from organic sources. That same technology may provide trailer wash facilities a way of objectively characterizing a livestock trailer's suitability to return to a farm after washing. Two ATP luminometers (3M Clean-Trace and Neogen AccuPoint) were used to estimate the correlation between ATP bioluminescence readings and aerobic bacterial plate counts (APCs) from sampled surfaces and to determine locations within a livestock trailer that can accurately estimate surface cleanliness. Five locations in livestock trailers were evaluated. Those locations included the nose access door (NAD), back door flush gate, rear side access door (RSAD), belly flush gate (BFG), and belly side access door (BSAD). There was a positive log-log association between the two luminometers (r = 0.59, P < 0.01). Every log unit increase in one unit, resulted in a 0.42 log increase (P < 0.01) in the other unit. ATP can come from bacteria, yeasts, molds, and manure. There was a poor association (r ≥ 0.10, P ≥ 0.02) between APCs and the ATP luminometers. Still, an increase in relative light units (RLUs) resulted in a corresponding increase in colony-forming units. The greatest area of surface contamination measured by APC was the NAD. RLUs were also greater in the NAD compared to the RSAD, the BFG, and the BSAD (P ≤ 0.01). Because APCs and luminometer RLUs provided similar outcomes, statistical process control charts were developed to determine control limits for RLUs. This provides real-time feedback to trailer wash workers in determining cleanliness outcomes for livestock trailers. These data suggest that ATP bioluminescence can be a reliable method to monitor cleaning effectiveness in livestock trailers. Bioluminescence is a monitoring tool that should be used in conjunction with microbial methods to monitor procedures for cleaning and disinfection.

The whack-a-mole governance challenge for AI-enabled synthetic biology: literature review and emerging frameworks.

AI-enabled synthetic biology has tremendous potential but also significantly increases biorisks and brings about a new set of dual use concerns. The picture is complicated given the vast innovations envisioned to emerge by combining emerging technologies, as AI-enabled synthetic biology potentially scales up bioengineering into industrial biomanufacturing. However, the literature review indicates that goals such as maintaining a reasonable scope for innovation, or more ambitiously to foster a huge bioeconomy do not necessarily contrast with biosafety, but need to go hand in hand. This paper presents a literature review of the issues and describes emerging frameworks for policy and practice that transverse the options of command-and-control, stewardship, bottom-up, and laissez-faire governance. How to achieve early warning systems that enable prevention and mitigation of future AI-enabled biohazards from the lab, from deliberate misuse, or from the public realm, will constantly need to evolve, and adaptive, interactive approaches should emerge. Although biorisk is subject to an established governance regime, and scientists generally adhere to biosafety protocols, even experimental, but legitimate use by scientists could lead to unexpected developments. Recent advances in chatbots enabled by generative AI have revived fears that advanced biological insight can more easily get into the hands of malignant individuals or organizations. Given these sets of issues, society needs to rethink how AI-enabled synthetic biology should be governed. The suggested way to visualize the challenge at hand is whack-a-mole governance, although the emerging solutions are perhaps not so different either.

Cross-pathogenicity of Phytophthora palmivora associated with bud rot disease of oil palm and development of biomarkers for detection.

Phytophthora palmivora has caused disease in many crops including oil palm in the South America region. The pathogen has had a significant economic impact on oil palm cultivation in Colombia, and therefore poses a threat to oil palm cultivation in other regions of the World, especially in Southeast Asia, the largest producer of the crop. This study aimed to look at the ability of isolates from Malaysia, Colombia, and other regions to cross-infect Malaysian oil palm, durian, and cocoa and to develop specific biomarkers and assays for identification, detection, and diagnosis of P. palmivora as a key component for the oil palm biosecurity continuum in order to contain the disease especially at the ports of entry. We have developed specific molecular biomarkers to identify and detect Phytophthora palmivora using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time loop mediated isothermal amplification (rt-LAMP) in various sample types such as soil and plants. The limit of detection (DNA template, pure culture assay) for the PCR assay is 5.94 × 10-2 ng µl-1 and for rt-LAMP is 9.28 × 10-4 ng µl-1. Diagnosis using rt-LAMP can be achieved within 30 min of incubation. In addition, PCR primer pair AV3F/AV3R developed successfully distinguished the Colombian and Malaysian P. palmivora isolates.

The Epistemic Value of Gain of Function Experiments.

The phrase "gain of function" (GOF) has recently acquired a negative connotation in experimental biology by its association with risky science. Whereas much of the discussion on the relative merits of GOF-type experiments has focused on their risk-benefit equation, relatively little has been said about their epistemic value. In this article, we recount how GOF experiments were critical for establishing DNA as the genetic material, the identification of cellular receptors, and the role of oncogenes in cancer research. Today, many of the products of the biomedical revolution such as synthetic insulin, growth factors, and monoclonal antibodies are the result of GOF experiments where cells were given the new function of synthesizing medically important products. GOF experiments and complementary loss of function experiments are epistemically powerful tools for establishing causality in biology.

Covid-19: fatores associados ao uso e adesão de equipamentos de proteção individual entre residentes no Brasil / Covid-19: factors associated with the use and adherence of personal protective equipment in Brazil among residents / Covid-19: factores asociados al uso y adherencia de equipos de protección personal entre los residentes en Brasil

Objetivo: analisar os fatores associados ao uso e a adesão aos equipamentos de proteção individual pelos profissionais pós-graduandos vinculados a programas de residência em saúde. Método: transversal com 227 residentes. Avaliadas variáveis relacionadas à adesão e uso adequado de equipamentos de proteção individual por meio de instrumento validado "E.P.I. covid-19 Brasil-versão adaptada para residentes". Realizou-se análise bivariada, teste qui-quadrado/exato de Fisher e cálculo da razão de prevalência. Pesquisa foi aprovada pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa com Seres Humanos. Resultados: realizaram atividades de capacitação sobre EPIs (59,9%).Associação entre uso de máscara cirúrgica(p≤0,01) e idade; área de concentração do programa e uso de gorro (p≤0,01) e máscara cirúrgica (p=0,04); realização de atividades de capacitação e uso de máscara cirúrgica (p=0,02) e N95 (p≤0,01). A adesão variou de 0% a 67%. Conclusão: fatores associados ao uso adequado, idade, área de concentração do programa e realização de atividades de capacitação. Houve fragilidades na adesão. Sugere-se o fortalecimento do tema biossegurança na residência.

Objective: to analyze the factors associated with the use and adherence to personal protective equipment by graduate professionals linked to residency programs in health. Method: cross-sectional study with 227 residents. E.P.I.covid-19 Brasil-adapted version for residents". Bivariate analysis, Fisher chi-square/exact test and calculation of the prevalence ratio were performed. Research was approved by the Ethics Committee for Research with Human Beings. Results: they carried out training activities on PPE (59.9%). Association between use of surgical mask (p≤0.01) and age; program concentration area and use of cap (p≤0.01) and surgical mask (p=0.04); performance of training activities and use of surgical mask (p=0.02) and N95 (p≤0.01). Adherence to PPE ranged from 0% to 67%. Conclusion: factors associated with the proper use of personal protective equipment were age, area of program concentration, and performance of training activities. There were weaknesses in adherence. It is suggested to strengthen the theme of biosafety in the residence.

Objetivos:analizar los factores asociados al uso y la adherencia a los equipos de protección personal (EPP) por parte de profesionales graduados vinculados a programas de residencia en salud. Método: estudio transversal con 227 residentes. Se utilizó la versión adaptada para residentes del «Cuestionario sobre EPI en la atención primaria de salud (EPS-APS) en el contexto de la COVID-19 en Brasil. Se realizaron análisis bivariados, prueba chi-cuadrado de Fisher/prueba exacta y cálculo de la razón de prevalencia. La investigación fue aprobada por el Comité de Ética para la Investigación con Seres Humanos. Resultados: se realizaron actividades de capacitación sobre EPI (59,9%). Se observó asociación entre el uso de mascarilla quirúrgica (p≤0,01) y la edad; área de concentración del programa y uso de cofia (p≤0,01) y mascarilla quirúrgica (p=0,04); realización de actividades de capacitación y uso de mascarilla quirúrgica (p=0,02) y N95 (p≤0,01). La adherencia a los EPI osciló entre el 0% y el 67%. Conclusión: los factores asociados al uso correcto de los EPI fueron la edad, el área de concentración del programa y la realización de actividades de capacitación. Se observaron debilidades en la adherencia. Se sugiere fortalecer el tema de la bioseguridad en la residencia.

Medidas de bioseguridad contra la COVID-19 durante la atención odontológica, en una región del Perú

Introducción: La atención odontológica, por su propia naturaleza, implica un mayor riesgo de trasmisión del SARS-CoV-2. Por tanto, es esencial que el personal del centro odontológico extreme las medidas de bioseguridad durante y después de la crisis sanitaria. Objetivo: evaluar el cumplimiento de las medidas de bioseguridad contra la COVID-19 durante la atención odontológica, en una región del Perú. Materiales y métodos: Estudio transversal realizado en la región de Ica, en Perú. Participaron 304 odontólogos de la práctica pública y privada. Se recogieron características sociolaborales y de salud. El cumplimiento de medidas de bioseguridad fue evaluado con la Escala de Bioseguridad para COVID-19, diseñada y validada por los investigadores. Se realizó un análisis descriptivo y se evaluaron diferencias con la prueba chi-cuadrado. Resultados: El 72,7 % de los participantes incumplen las medidas de bioseguridad. Se observaron mayores proporciones de incumplimiento entre los odontólogos de 41 a 50 años de edad (76 %), sin segunda especialidad (76,4 %), y en quienes recibieron la primera (100 %) y la segunda dosis (90,4 %) de la vacuna contra la COVID-19. Asimismo, entre los odontólogos que laboran en el sector privado que no tienen segunda especialidad (75,3 %); entre los que recibieron la primera dosis de la vacuna contra la COVID-19 (100 %) y la segunda dosis (92,2 %) respectivamente; en quienes tuvieron dos veces (100 %) y más de dos veces (100 %) COVID-19, y en aquellos que no tuvieron familiar fallecido por el coronavirus. Todas estas diferencias alcanzaron significancia estadística (p < 0,05). Conclusión: Durante la atención odontológica se incumplen las medidas de bioseguridad. Existen ciertos factores como la edad entre 41 y 50 años, no tener segunda especialidad, entre otros, que podrían incrementar la probabilidad de incumplir estas medidas.

Introduction: Dental care, by its proper nature, implies a higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. It is therefore essential that the dental center staff carry to extremes biosecurity measures during and after the health crisis. Objective: To evaluate compliance with biosecurity measures against COVID-19 during dental care in a region of Peru. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study carried out in the region of Ica, in Peru. 304 dentists from public and private practice participated. Socio-occupational and health characteristics were collected. Compliance with biosecurity measures was evaluated with the Biosecurity Scale for COVID-19, designed and validated by the researchers. A descriptive analysis was performed and differences were evaluated with the chi-square test. Results: 72.7% of the participants fail to comply with the biosecurity measures. Higher proportions of non-compliance were found among the dentists from 41 to 50 years old (76%), without a second specialization (76.4%), and in those who received the first (100%) and the second (90.4%) doses of the vaccine against COVID-19. Likewise, among dentists who work in the private sector and do not have second specialty (75.3%); among those who received the first dose (100%) and the second dose (92.2%) of the vaccine against COVID-19 respectively; in those who had COVID-19 twice (100%) and more than twice (100%), and in those dentist who did not have relatives deceased by coronavirus. All these differences reached statistical significance (p < 0, 05). Conclusions: Biosafety measures are breached during dental care. There are several factors like age between 41 and 50 years, not having a second specialty among others that could increase the probability of failing to comply with these measures.

Capacitación en bioseguridad en las escuelas de Medicina en Venezuela: Análisis situacional y revisión de la literatura

El conocimiento y aplicación de las medidas de bioseguridad, en sus diferentes niveles, son de capital importancia en el ejercicio de las distintas profesiones relacionadas con atención en salud, y en la formación médica del trabajador sanitario resultan imprescindibles, para evitar la aparición de enfermedades infecciosas adquiribles durante el ejercicio profesional. Se revisaron las publicaciones y reglamentaciones acerca del tema, de manera general, y en el contexto de la realidad venezolana, se realizó la inspección del contenido en educación médica de los programas de las Facultades de Ciencias de la Salud de las Universidades venezolanas en relación con la oferta de conocimientos sobre los diferentes niveles de bioseguridad, medidas preventivas, uso de equipo de protección; habilidades y destrezas relacionadas con el tema, con base en la oferta y presencia de la asignatura Bioseguridad en los diseños curriculares de las diferentes Universidades.

The knowledge and application of biosafety measures, at their different levels, are of capital importance in the exercise of the different professions related to health care, and in the medical training of the health worker they are essential, to avoid the appearance of infectious diseases that can be acquirable during professional practice. The publications and regulations on the subject were reviewed, in a general way, and in the context of the Venezuelan reality, we performed an inspection of the content in medical education of the programs of the Faculties of Health Sciences of the Venezuelan Universities in relation to the offer of knowledge about the different levels of biosafety, preventive measures, use of protective equipment; abilities and skills related to the subject, based on the offer and presence of the Biosafety topic in the curricular designs of the different Universities

Biosseguridade na avicultura de corte: impactos na produção e alternativas para prevenção de doenças / Biosecurity in beef poultry: impacts on production and alternatives for disease prevention / Bioseguridad en avicultura: impactos en la producción y alternativas para la prevención de enfermedades

A avicultura de corte levou ao Brasil a ser o no líder exportador de carne de frango, desde 2011, e o terceiro produtor global desta proteína. Portanto, é importante que todo produtor possua e mantenha um programa de biosseguridade continuado, respeitando rigorosamente cada etapa ou prática de manejo a fim de obter o sucesso econômico de sua produção. Sustentado pela medicina veterinária preventiva, um programa de biosseguridade deve apresentar aspectos direcionados a cada sistema de proteção em particular, para prevenir e controlar a presença e/ou introdução de microrganismos patogênicos nos rebanhos. O objetivo deste trabalho e apresentar uma revisão atualizada de literatura sobre programas de biosseguridade para evitar a proliferação de agentes patogênicos na avicultura de corte como os dois tipos de Salmonella que causam riscos à saúde pública e à dos animais. A pesquisa é qualitativa de cunho exploratório bibliográfico-documental, com pesquisa em sites como o Google Acadêmico, da revista de veterinária da Unipar, SCIELO, portal CAPES e sites governamentais. O resultado da pesquisa apresentou um panorama real sobre emprego de programas de biosseguridade no Brasil, direcionados à avicultura de corte, demonstrando que os produtores estão se conscientizando sobre a importância destes programas, devido à pressão do mercado exportador global. Conclui-se que ainda falta uma maior conscientização por parte de todos os produtores brasileiros, para evitar que o plantel produzido seja contaminado por agentes patogênicos, principalmente a Salmonella, evitando que a saúde pública e animal esteja comprometida. Somente desta maneira, o Brasil conseguirá manter e expandir mais o mercado avícola a nível global.(AU)

Poultry farming has led Brazil to be the leading exporter of chicken meat, since 2011, and the third global producer of this protein. Therefore, it is important that every producer has and maintains a continuous biosecurity program, strictly respecting each stage or management practice in order to obtain the economic success of their production. Supported by preventive veterinary medicine, a biosecurity program must present aspects directed to each protection system in particular, to prevent and control the presence and/or introduction of pathogenic microorganisms in herds. The objective of this work is to present an updated review of the literature on biosecurity programs to prevent the proliferation of pathogenic agents in poultry farming, such as the two types of Salmonella that pose risks to public and animal health. The research is qualitative, bibliographical-documentary exploratory, with research on sites such as Google Scholar, Unipar's veterinary magazine, SCIELO, CAPES portal and government sites. The result of the research presented a real panorama on the use of biosecurity programs in Brazil, directed to poultry production, demonstrating that producers are becoming aware of the importance of these programs, due to the pressure of the global export market. It is concluded that there is still a lack of greater awareness on the part of all Brazilian producers, to prevent the produced herd from being contaminated by pathogenic agents, mainly Salmonella, preventing public and animal health from being compromised. Only in this way will Brazil be able to maintain and further expand the poultry market at a global level.(AU)

La avicultura llevó a Brasil a ser el principal exportador de carne de pollo, desde 2011, y el tercer productor mundial de esta proteína. Por ello, es importante que todo productor cuente y mantenga un programa de bioseguridad continuo, respetando estrictamente cada etapa o práctica de manejo para obtener el éxito económico de su producción. Apoyado en la medicina veterinaria preventiva, un programa de bioseguridad debe presentar aspectos dirigidos a cada sistema de protección en particular, para prevenir y controlar la presencia y/o introducción de microorganismos patógenos en los rebaños. El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar una revisión actualizada de la literatura sobre programas de bioseguridad para prevenir la proliferación de agentes patógenos en la avicultura, como los dos tipos de Salmonella que presentan riesgos para la salud pública y animal. La investigación es cualitativa, bibliográfico-documental exploratoria, con pesquisa en sitios como Google Scholar, revista veterinaria de la Unipar, SCIELO, portal de la CAPES y sitios gubernamentales. El resultado de la investigación presentó un panorama real sobre el uso de programas de bioseguridad en Brasil, dirigidos a la producción avícola, demostrando que los productores están tomando conciencia de la importancia de estos programas, debido a la presión del mercado mundial de exportación. Se concluye que aún falta una mayor conciencia por parte de todos los productores brasileños, para evitar que el hato producido sea contaminado por agentes patógenos, principalmente Salmonella, evitando que se comprometa la salud pública y animal. Solo así Brasil podrá mantener y expandir aún más el mercado avícola a nivel mundial.(AU)

¿Los pacientes odontológicos están dispuestos a pagar por medidas de bioseguridad ante COVID-19? Variaciones en el tipo de tratamiento y la presencia de comorbilidades / ¿Are dental patients willing to pay for biosecurity measures against COVID-19? Variations in the type of treatment and the presence of comorbidities

Resumen Objetivo: Estimar si los pacientes odontológicos están dispuestos a pagar (DAP) más por sus citas sabiendo que la clínica donde asisten implementó medidas de bioseguridad para evitar el contagio del COVID-19. De igual manera, si dicho pago varía dependiendo del tipo de tratamiento odontológico, así como si el paciente presenta algún tipo de comorbilidad. Materiales y métodos: Desarrollo y aplicación de encuestas en línea a una muestra de 423 pacientes odontológicos en México con diferentes tratamientos y presencia de comorbilidad si estuvieran dispuestos a pagar por su atención ante la emergencia COVID por las medidas de bioseguridad utilizando un análisis estadístico de medias. La encuesta se aplicó en los meses de septiembre a noviembre de 2020. Resultados: Se estimó que aproximadamente el 32% cancelaría sus citas dentales por miedo a contraer COVID-19; sin embargo, casi un 45% estarían DAP un monto extra en la cita, si el consultorio o clínica implementa estrictas medidas de bioseguridad. Estos porcentajes, tanto de la cancelación de cita, como de la disponibilidad a pagar adicional, se incrementa si el paciente presenta alguna comorbilidad. Conclusiones: Los pacientes de la muestra están dispuestos a pagar un monto excedente por sus citas sabiendo que los consultorios implementaron medidas de bioseguridad, y más si son pacientes que presentan alguna comorbilidad. Así mismo, dichos consultorios podrían recibir algún apoyo del Gobierno para el bienestar de toda la sociedad.

Abstract Objective: Estimate whether dental patients are willing to pay (DAP) more for their appointments knowing that the clinic where they attend implemented biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Similarly, if said payment varies depending on the type of dental treatment, as well as if the patient has some type of comorbidity. Materials and methods: Development and application of online surveys to a sample of 423 dental patients in Mexico with different treatments and presence of comorbidity if they were willing to pay for their care in the face of the COVID emergency for biosecurity measures using a statistical analysis of means . The survey was applied in the months of September to November 2020. Results: It was estimated that approximately 32% would cancel their dental appointments for fear of contracting COVID-19; however, almost 45% would be DAP an extra amount in the appointment, if the office or clinic implements strict biosecurity measures. These percentages, both for appointment cancellation and willingness to pay additional, are increased if the patient has any comorbidity. Conclusions: The patients in the sample are willing to pay an excess amount for their appointments knowing that the offices have implemented biosafety measures, and more so if they are patients with some comorbidity. Likewise, these clinics could receive some support from the Government for the well-being of the entire society.

Desinfección y reutilización de respiradores N95 durante pandemia por COVID-19 / Disinfection and reuse of N95 respirators during the COVID-19 pandemic

Introducción: Se está viviendo en un contexto de pandemia por COVID-19, en donde se evidencia la escasez de equipos de protección personal en salud y se prevé que continuará en el corto y mediano plazo. Por lo que considerar la reutilización o el uso prolongado de algunos equipos de protección personal, en especial de los respiradores, podría ser una alternativa a considerar. Objetivo: Revisar y dar a conocer, en base a evidencia científica, distintas formas de desinfección para poder reutilizar de manera segura y asequible los respiradores N95. Comentarios principales: Los respiradores N95 o sus equivalentes son de uso exclusivo del personal de salud para la atención de pacientes con sospecha o confirmación de COVID-19 y en procedimientos con generación de aerosoles. Su eficacia depende en gran medida del estado del respirador, de la capacidad de filtración, del sellado y de su uso adecuado. Son diversos los métodos para desinfectar, como la luz ultravioleta tipo C, el peróxido de hidrógeno, calor seco y húmedo, ozono, irradiación por microondas, etc. Si estos procedimientos no son realizados adecuadamente, podrían no ser efectivos. Comentarios globales: En escenarios de escasez de equipos de protección personal la reutilización es un procedimiento viable, económico, seguro, potencialmente escalable y fácil de realizar. Los respiradores N95 requieren un procedimiento especial de desinfección para preservar su capacidad de filtración y sellado. Existe un limitado número de ciclos de desinfección y reutilización. La estufa en calor seco podría ser el método más asequible en entornos privados(AU)

Introduction: We are living in a context of COVID-19 pandemic, where the shortage of personal protective equipment in health is evident and it is expected that it will continue in the short and medium term. So, considering the reuse or prolonged use of some personal protective equipment, especially respirators, could be an alternative to consider. Objective: To review and disseminate, based on scientific evidence, different forms of disinfection in order to safely and affordably reuse N95 respirators. Main comments: N95 respirators or their equivalents are for the exclusive use of health personnel for the care of patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 and in aerosol generation procedures. Its effectiveness depends to a large extent on the condition of the respirator, the filtration capacity, the sealing and its proper use. There are several methods to disinfect, such as ultraviolet light type C, hydrogen peroxide, dry and humid heat, ozone, microwave irradiation, etc. If these procedures are not performed properly, they may not be effective. Global feedback: In personal protective equipment shortage scenarios, reuse is a viable, economical, safe, potentially scalable and easy-to-perform procedure. N95 respirators require a special disinfection procedure to preserve their filtration and sealing capacity. There are a limited number of disinfection and reuse cycles. Dry heat stove might be the most affordable method in private settings(AU)

La COVID-19 y sus repercusiones en la práctica odontológica / COVID-19 and their repercussions on dental practice

La llegada del COVID-19 generó diversos cambios significativos en el área de la salud y particularmente en el área odontológica, donde se priorizaron los tratamientos de urgencia relegando los procedimientos menores y atención de citas a la vía virtual. Otras modificaciones se concentraron en el uso de equipos de protección personal y logística de atención tanto para el paciente como para el profesional, siguiendo las indicaciones de las normas diseñadas para esta función; adicionalmente se hicieron adecuaciones en las áreas de recepción y práctica odontológica, y se capacitó a los profesionales en temas relativos a la enfermedad. El objetivo del presente artículo es analizar las implicaciones generadas en la práctica odontológica durante la pandemia por COVID-19 en los ámbitos de triaje, infraestructura, normativa y capacitación (AU)

The arrival of COVID-19 produced a series of significant changes in the health area and particularly in the dental area where emergency treatments were prioritized, relegating minor procedures and appointment care to the virtual route, other modifications focused on the use of personal protective equipment and care logistics for both the patient and the professional following the indications of the standards designed for this function, additionally adjustments were made in the reception and dental practice areas, and professionals were trained on issues related to the disease. The objective of this article is to analyze the implications generated in dental practice during the COVID-19 pandemic in the areas of triage, infrastructure, regulations and training (AU)

Labor docente asistencial de los profesionales de la estomatología en el enfrentamiento a la COVID-19 / Assistance teaching work of the stomatology professionals in the confrontation to COVID-19

Introducción: La COVID-19 es una enfermedad infecciosa causada por el virus SARS-CoV-2, de ahí que, específicamente en el caso de la estomatología, deben tomarse las medidas de bioseguridad imprescindibles para preservar la salud del personal médico y de los pacientes. Objetivo: Caracterizar la labor docente asistencial de los profesionales de la Clínica Estomatológica Provincial Docente Mártires del Moncada de Santiago de Cuba durante la COVID-19. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal, con recolección retrospectiva de la información entre marzo de 2020 y septiembre de 2021. Resultados: En la labor docente, de un total de 75 estudiantes de pregrado promovieron 41 en el examen estatal y 24 de posgrado; también cambiaron de categorías, tanto científica como docente, 15 profesores. En la labor asistencial predominaron las consultas de urgencias en los tres períodos (62,5 %), seguidas de las especializadas (28,5 %). Conclusiones: La labor docente asistencial en las diferentes etapas de la epidemia se caracterizó por alcanzar las diferentes promociones en los estudios de pregrado y de posgrado, así como por la atención a pacientes con urgencias estomatológicas, fundamentalmente provenientes de otras áreas de salud, siempre con las exigencias y el control sobre el cumplimiento del plan de medidas de bioseguridad.

Introduction: The COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, that is why, specifically in the case of stomatology, the indispensable biosecurity measures should be taken to preserve the health of the medical personnel and patients. Objective: To characterize the assistance teaching work of health professionals in Mártires del Moncada Provincial Teaching Stomatological Clinic from Santiago de Cuba during the COVID-19. Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out, with retrospective collection of the information between March, 2020 and September, 2021. Results: In the teaching work, from a total of 75 pregraduate degree students promoted 41 in the state exam and 24 of postgraduate degree students; also 15 professors changed categories, either scientific or teaching. In the assistance work the urgencies visits prevailed in the three periods (62.5 %), followed by the specialized visits (28.5 %). Conclusions: The assistance teaching work in the different stages of the epidemic was characterized to achieve the different promotions in the pregraduate degree and postgraduate degree studies, as well as for the care to patients with stomatological emergencies, fundamentally coming from other health areas, always with the demands and control on the fulfillment of the biosecurity measures plan.

Diversity of tick species (Acari: Ixodidae) in military training areas in Southeastern Brazil / Diversidade de espécies de carrapatos (Acari: Ixodidae) em áreas de instrução militar na região Sudeste do Brasil

Abstract Tick-borne pathogens belong to one of the two main groups of occupational biohazards, and occupational exposure to such agents puts soldiers at risk of zoonotic infections, such as those caused by rickettsiae. There are few studies on acarological fauna and occupational risk in military areas in Brazil. Thus, the present study aimed to analyze the diversity of ticks present in the military training areas of municipalities in the Southeast Region of Brazil. The ticks were collected from the selected areas using the dragging and flagging techniques as well as by visual detection on the operators' clothing, and environmental information was also recorded. A total of ten species were collected from the 66 surveyed areas, belonging to five genera and nine species: Amblyomma sculptum, Amblyomma dubitatum, Amblyomma brasiliense, Amblyomma longirostre, Amblyomma aureolatum, Dermacentor nitens, Rhipicephalus spp., Ixodes spp. and Haemaphysalis spp. The frequent presence of tick species in military training areas along with traces and sightings of wild animals, most commonly capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris), in most of the studied areas, indicates high levels of exposure of the military to tick vectors of spotted fever group rickettsiae and the possible occurrence of infections among the troops.

Resumo As doenças transmitidas por carrapatos estão entre os dois principais grupos de riscos biológicos ocupacionais. Tal exposição ocupacional de militares os colocam sob maior risco de adquirirem doenças zoonóticas, como infecções rickettsiais, entre outras. No Brasil, há raros estudos sobre fauna acarológica e o risco ocupacional em áreas militares. Neste sentido, o presente estudo teve por objetivo analisar a diversidade de carrapatos presentes em áreas de treinamento militar de municípios da região Sudeste do Brasil. Os carrapatos foram coletados nas áreas através de arrasto de flanela, bandeiramento e/ou coleta nas vestimentas do operador, sendo registradas também informações ambientais. Das 66 áreas pesquisadas, foram coletados 9.374 carrapatos, com uma diversidade de cinco gêneros, distribuídos em dez espécies: Amblyomma sculptum, Amblyomma dubitatum, Amblyomma brasiliense, Amblyomma longirostre, Amblyomma aureolatum, Amblyomma spp., Dermacentor nitens, Rhipicephalus spp., Ixodes spp. e Haemaphysalis spp. A presença frequente de espécies de carrapatos nas áreas de instrução militar, associada aos vestígios e à presença de animais silvestres, mais comumente de capivaras na maioria das áreas estudadas, evidencia uma grande exposição dos militares a carrapatos vetores de rickettsias do Grupo da Febre Maculosa e a possível ocorrência de casos humanos nas tropas.

Evaluation of the active concentration of two disinfectants based on glutaraldehyde and benzalkonium chloride and antimicrobial activity in vitro against Salmonella Heidelberg and Salmonella Typhimurium

Biosecurity, cleaning and disinfection of swine and poultry facilities are fundamental for the reduction of pathogenic microorganisms of importance for public and animal health. The objective of this work was to compare the levels of active ingredient described on the label and the real levels detected in high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) of two disinfectants., then evaluate the antimicrobial activity since, following the Germicidal Sanitizing Action and Disinfectant Detergent (Official Method AOAC 960.09) in four different dilutions with the presence of 3% organic matter during 15 min of contact, against Salmonella Heidelberg and Salmonella Typhimurium (ST). The product "A" presents active levels of agreement according to the label. The content of quantified assets for product "B" was lower than that recorded on the label. The disinfectant "A" was effective in microbiological evaluation while the disinfectant "B" had microbiocidal activity compromised by the deficit of assets.

Ammonia gas for bacterial control in poultry litter / Gás amônia para controle bacteriano em cama aviária

The current techniques used in the disinfection of reused poultry litter, such as lime addition, windrowing and plastic cover on the surface, do not guarantee the elimination of pathogenic microorganisms, causing damage to the environment and animal health. Gram negative bacteria, i.e., Salmonella and Escherichia coli, can be transmitted from one batch to another through reused litter, causing health damage to broilers and humans that consume food contaminated by these agents. Our study assessed the effectiveness of the methods plastic cover on the surface (PCS) and plastic cover on the surface with ammonia gas injection (PCSAI) in the control of Gram negative bacteria. The results obtained, both in laboratory conditions (Experiment 1) and in the field (Experiment 2), demonstrate that the method PCSAI with 0.22% ammonia gas had a significant reduction (P<0.05) of Gram negative bacteria in the period of 48 hours This new methodology for disinfecting poultry litter will allow its reuse in a practical and safe way, improving the preservation of the environment, of the health of broilers and consumers of poultry products.

O reaproveitamento de camas aviárias na criação de frangos de corte é uma prática muito utilizada no Brasil. Essa prática reduz custos de produção e contribui na conservação do meio ambiente. As técnicas atuais utilizadas na desinfecção de camas aviárias reaproveitadas, como adição de cal, enleiramento e lona na superfície, não garantem a eliminação de microrganismos patogênicos porque não geram quantidade suficiente de amônia. O gás amônia, em concentrações elevadas, tem efeito biocida. Bactérias Gram negativas, como as Salmonelas e Escherichia coli, podem ser transmitidas de um lote para outro através do reaproveitamento da cama, ocasionando prejuízos para a saúde das aves e dos humanos que consomem alimentos contaminados por estes agentes. Este trabalho avaliou a eficácia do método lona na superfície com injeção de gás amônia no controle de microrganismos Gram negativos. Os resultados obtidos demostraram que esse método controlou os microrganismos Gram negativos num período de 48 horas em camas de frangos de corte reaproveitadas. Assim, essa nova metodologia de desinfecção de camas de aviário permitirá sua reutilização de forma prática e segura, melhorando a saúde das aves e dos consumidores dos produtos avícolas.

Ammonia gas for bacterial control in poultry litter

ABSTRACT: The current techniques used in the disinfection of reused poultry litter, such as lime addition, windrowing and plastic cover on the surface, do not guarantee the elimination of pathogenic microorganisms, causing damage to the environment and animal health. Gram negative bacteria, i.e., Salmonella and Escherichia coli, can be transmitted from one batch to another through reused litter, causing health damage to broilers and humans that consume food contaminated by these agents. Our study assessed the effectiveness of the methods plastic cover on the surface (PCS) and plastic cover on the surface with ammonia gas injection (PCSAI) in the control of Gram negative bacteria. The results obtained, both in laboratory conditions (Experiment 1) and in the field (Experiment 2), demonstrate that the method PCSAI with 0.22% ammonia gas had a significant reduction (P 0.05) of Gram negative bacteria in the period of 48 hours This new methodology for disinfecting poultry litter will allow its reuse in a practical and safe way, improving the preservation of the environment, of the health of broilers and consumers of poultry products.

RESUMO: O reaproveitamento de camas aviárias na criação de frangos de corte é uma prática muito utilizada no Brasil. Essa prática reduz custos de produção e contribui na conservação do meio ambiente. As técnicas atuais utilizadas na desinfecção de camas aviárias reaproveitadas, como adição de cal, enleiramento e lona na superfície, não garantem a eliminação de microrganismos patogênicos porque não geram quantidade suficiente de amônia. O gás amônia, em concentrações elevadas, tem efeito biocida. Bactérias Gram negativas, como as Salmonelas e Escherichia coli, podem ser transmitidas de um lote para outro através do reaproveitamento da cama, ocasionando prejuízos para a saúde das aves e dos humanos que consomem alimentos contaminados por estes agentes. Este trabalho avaliou a eficácia do método lona na superfície com injeção de gás amônia no controle de microrganismos Gram negativos. Os resultados obtidos demostraram que esse método controlou os microrganismos Gram negativos num período de 48 horas em camas de frangos de corte reaproveitadas. Assim, essa nova metodologia de desinfecção de camas de aviário permitirá sua reutilização de forma prática e segura, melhorando a saúde das aves e dos consumidores dos produtos avícolas.