Difficult-to-treat (DTR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa harboring Verona-Integron metallo-ß-lactamase (blaVIM): infection management and molecular analysis.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa harboring Verona Integron-encoded metallo-ß-lactamase enzymes (VIM-CRPA) have been associated with infection outbreaks in several parts of the world. In the US, however, VIM-CRPA remain rare. Starting in December 2018, we identified a cluster of cases in our institution. Herein, we present our epidemiological investigation and strategies to control/manage these challenging infections. This study was conducted in a large academic healthcare system in Miami, FL, between December 2018 and January 2022. Patients were prospectively identified via rapid molecular diagnostics when cultures revealed carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa. Alerts were received in real time by the antimicrobial stewardship program and infection prevention teams. Upon alert recognition, a series of interventions were performed as a coordinated effort. A retrospective chart review was conducted to collect patient demographics, antimicrobial therapy, and clinical outcomes. Thirty-nine VIM-CRPA isolates led to infection in 21 patients. The majority were male (76.2%); the median age was 52 years. The majority were mechanically ventilated (n = 15/21; 71.4%); 47.6% (n = 10/21) received renal replacement therapy at the time of index culture. Respiratory (n = 20/39; 51.3%) or bloodstream (n = 13/39; 33.3%) were the most common sources. Most infections (n = 23/37; 62.2%) were treated with an aztreonam-avibactam regimen. Six patients (28.6%) expired within 30 days of index VIM-CRPA infection. Fourteen isolates were selected for whole genome sequencing. Most of them belonged to ST111 (12/14), and they all carried blaVIM-2 chromosomally. This report describes the clinical experience treating serious VIM-CRPA infections with either aztreonam-ceftazidime/avibactam or cefiderocol in combination with other agents. The importance of implementing infection prevention strategies to curb VIM-CRPA outbreaks is also demonstrated.

A molecular toolbox for fast and convenient diagnosis of emerging and reemerging bacterial pathogens causing fever of intermediate duration.

PURPOSE: Fever of intermediate duration (FID) is defined as a fever in the community without a specific origin or focus, with a duration between 7 and 28 days. FID is often caused by pathogens associated with animal contact or their arthropods parasites, such as ticks, fleas, or lice. The purpose of this work is to design a collection of molecular tools to promptly and accurately detect common bacterial pathogens causing FID, including bacteria belonging to genera Rickettsia, Bartonella, Anaplasma, and Ehrlichia, as well as Coxiella burnetii. METHODS: Reference DNA sequences from a collection of Rickettsia, Bartonella, Anaplasma, and Ehrlichia species were used to design genus-specific primers and FRET probes targeted to conserved genomic regions. For C. burnetii, primers previously described were used, in combination with a newly designed specific probe. Real-time PCR assays were optimized using reference bacterial genomic DNA in a background of human genomic DNA. RESULTS: The four real-time PCR assays can detect as few as ten copies of target DNA from those five genera of FDI-causing bacteria in a background of 300 ng of human genomic DNA, mimicking the low microbial load generally found in patient's blood. CONCLUSION: These assays constitute a fast and convenient "toolbox" that can be easily implemented in diagnostic laboratories to provide timely and accurate detection of bacterial pathogens that are typical etiological causes of febrile syndromes such as FID in humans.

Protocol for neurogenin-2-mediated induction of human stem cell-derived neural progenitor cells.

Human pluripotent stem cell-derived neural progenitor cells (NPCs) are an essential tool for the study of brain development and developmental disorders such as autism. Here, we present a protocol to generate NPCs rapidly and reproducibly from human stem cells using dual-SMAD inhibition coupled with a brief pulse of mouse neurogenin-2 (Ngn2) overexpression. We detail the 48-h induction scheme deployed to produce these cells-termed stem cell-derived Ngn2-accelerated progenitor cells-followed by steps for expansion, purification, banking, and quality assessment. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Wells et al.1.

Recent advances on the structure and the function relationships of the TRPV4 ion channel.

The members of the superfamily of Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) ion channels are physiologically important molecules that have been studied for many years and are still being intensively researched. Among the vanilloid TRP subfamily, the TRPV4 ion channel is an interesting protein due to its involvement in several essential physiological processes and in the development of various diseases. As in other proteins, changes in its function that lead to the development of pathological states, have been closely associated with modification of its regulation by different molecules, but also by the appearance of mutations which affect the structure and gating of the channel. In the last few years, some structures for the TRPV4 channel have been solved. Due to the importance of this protein in physiology, here we discuss the recent progress in determining the structure of the TRPV4 channel, which has been achieved in three species of animals (Xenopus tropicalis, Mus musculus, and Homo sapiens), highlighting conserved features as well as key differences among them and emphasizing the binding sites for some ligands that play crucial roles in its regulation.

A step forward in fishway engineering: Validation and implementation of advanced algorithms for effective stepped fishway design, modeling, and retrofitting.

Stepped fishways are the main alternative to allow fish migration in river obstacles. Their design is a multidisciplinary process, where civil engineering meets biology. This can bias the fishway design towards one discipline, which may cause low efficiencies or inadequate solutions. Likewise, it is often challenging to incorporate new discoveries into well-established design principles. To solve these problems, we have developed a novel tool named "Escalas". Escalas is a multipurpose platform for the assisted design, 1D simulation, assessment, and correction of stepped fishways. Escalas architecture allows fishway assessment during different hydraulic scenarios in the river (i.e., different water levels and discharges in the river), automatic dimensioning considering fish's physical needs, the study of any type of stepped fishway, to test solutions for malfunctioning or to assess fishway retrofitting. This is achieved by a modular variable definition during fishway design or definition, which allows multiple combinations of connections within and/or between cross-walls and independent discharge equation definition. This work aims to introduce Escalas to the research and engineering community, describe its algorithms, and show and validate its performance by its use in real and practical cases. Among others, results demonstrate how the tool can reproduce uniform and non-uniform performances on stepped fishways and allows fishway retrofitting to make hydraulic conditions compatible with fish usage during different river scenarios. Therefore, this work represents a step forward in the fishway engineering discipline by applying methods of engineering informatics and providing a technical and scientific base to make engineering decision-making more reliable and accessible as well as to incorporate new advances in fishway research into the engineering design process.

Experimental and computational evidence that Calpain-10 binds to the carboxy terminus of NaV1.2 and NaV1.6.

Voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV) are pivotal proteins responsible for initiating and transmitting action potentials. Emerging evidence suggests that proteolytic cleavage of sodium channels by calpains is pivotal in diverse physiological scenarios, including ischemia, brain injury, and neuropathic pain associated with diabetes. Despite this significance, the precise mechanism by which calpains recognize sodium channels, especially given the multiple calpain isoforms expressed in neurons, remains elusive. In this work, we show the interaction of Calpain-10 with NaV's C-terminus through a yeast 2-hybrid assay screening of a mouse brain cDNA library and in vitro by GST-pulldown. Later, we also obtained a structural and dynamic hypothesis of this interaction by modeling, docking, and molecular dynamics simulation. These results indicate that Calpain-10 interacts differentially with the C-terminus of NaV1.2 and NaV1.6. Calpain-10 interacts with NaV1.2 through domains III and T in a stable manner. In contrast, its interaction with NaV1.6 involves domains II and III, which could promote proteolysis through the Cys-catalytic site and C2 motifs.

Osteomesopyknosis associated with a novel ALOX5 variant that impacts the RANKL pathway.

BACKGROUND: Bone tissue homeostasis relies on the coordinated activity of the bone-forming osteoblasts and bone-resorbing osteoclasts. Osteomesopyknosis is considered a distinctive rare sclerosing skeletal disorder of unelucidated pathophysiology and presumably autosomal dominant transmission. However, the causal genes are unknown. METHODS: We present a case report encompassing clinical assessments, imaging studies, and whole-exome sequencing analysis, complemented by functional in vitro experiments. RESULTS: This new case of osteomesopyknosis was associated with a missense ALOX5 variant predicted to induce protein misfolding and proteasomal degradation. Transfection experiments demonstrated that the variant was associated with reduced protein levels restored by proteasomal inhibition with bortezomib. Likewise, gene expression analysis showed that the mutated gene was associated with a decreased RANKL/OPG ratio, which is a critical driver of osteoclast precursor differentiation. CONCLUSION: Our data indicate impaired bone resorption as the underlying mechanism of this rare osteosclerosis, implicating ALOX5 pathogenic variants as potential etiological factors.

Clinical evaluation of a new chemically-cured bulk-fill composite in posterior restorations: 6-month multicenter double-blind randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the postoperative sensitivity (POS), as well as the clinical performance of posterior restorations using a new chemically-cured bulk-fill composite (Stela Automix and Stela Capsule, SDI) comparing with a light-cured bulk-fill composite after 6 months. METHODS: Fifty-five participants with at least three posterior teeth needing restoration were recruited. A total of 165 restorations were performed on Class I or Class II cavities. After the application of Stela primer, the chemically-cured composite (Stela Automix or Stela Capsule) was inserted. For the light-cured composite group, a universal adhesive (Scotchbond Universal) was applied with a bulk-fill composite (Filtek One). Participants were evaluated for spontaneous and stimulated POS in the baseline, after 48 h, 7 days, and 6 months. Additionally, each restoration was assessed using the updated version of FDI criteria after 6 months. The differences in the proportions of the groups were compared by Cochran test statistics (α = 0.05). RESULTS: Both chemically-cured composites showed a lower risk of POS compared to the light-cured composite at baseline and up to 48 h (p < 0.04). A significantly lower surface luster and texture was observed for the Stela Capsule composite compared to the light-cured bulk-fill composite (baseline and 6 months; p = 0.03). A significant color mismatch was observed for the light-cured bulk-fill composite compared to the chemically-cured composites (baseline and 6 months; p = 0.03). No significant differences were observed in any other item evaluations (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Chemically-cured composites exhibit lower postoperative sensitivity and less color mismatch compared to a light-cured bulk-fill composite after 6 months of clinical service. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The chemically-cured composites appear to be an appealing option for restoring posterior teeth, as they exhibit lower postoperative sensitivity compared to a light-cured bulk-fill composite, both at baseline and up to 48 h, and less color mismatch.

On the antimicrobial properties and endurance of eugenol and 2-phenylphenol functionalized sol-gel coatings.

Preventing microbiological surface contamination in public spaces is nowadays of high priority. The proliferation of a microbial infection may arise through air, water, or direct contact with infected surfaces. Chemical sanitization is one of the most effective approaches to avoid the proliferation of microorganisms. However, extended contact with chemicals for cleaning purposes such as chlorine, hydrogen peroxide or ethanol may lead to long-term diseases as well as drowsiness or respiratory issues, not to mention environmental issues associated to their use. As a potentially safer alternative, in the present work, the efficacy and endurance of the antimicrobial activity of different sol-gel coatings were studied, where one or two biocides were added to the coating matrix resulting on active groups exposed on the surface. Specifically, the coating formulations were synthesized by the sol-gel method. Using the alkoxide route with acid catalysis a hybrid silica-titania-methacrylate matrix was obtained where aromatic liquid eugenol was added with a double function: as a complexing agent for the chelation of the reaction precursor titanium isopropoxide, and as a biocide. In addition, 2-Phenylphenol, ECHA approved biocide, has also been incorporated to the coating matrix. The antibacterial effect of these coatings was confirmed on Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli). Additionally, the coatings were non cyto-toxic and displayed virucidal activity. The coating chemical composition was characterized by 29Si NMR, and ATR-FTIR. Furthermore, the thickness and the mechanical properties were characterized by profilometry and nanoindentation, respectively. Finally, the durability of the coatings was studied with tribology tests. Overall, our data support the efficacy of the tested sol-gel coatings and suggest that added features may be required to improve endurance of the antimicrobial effects on operational conditions.

Identification and properties of TRPV4 mutant channels present in polycystic kidney disease patients.

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a disease characterized by enlargement of the kidney through cystic growth is the fourth leading cause of end-stage kidney disease world-wide. TRPV4, a calcium-permeable TRP, channel participates in kidney cell physiology and since TRPV4 forms complexes with another channel whose malfunction is associated to PKD, TRPP2 (or PKD2), we sought to determine whether patients with PKD, exhibit previously unknown mutations in TRPV4. Here, we report the presence of mutations in the TRPV4 gene in patients diagnosed with PKD and determine that they produce gain-of-function (GOF). Mutations in the sequence of the TRPV4 gene have been associated to a broad spectrum of neuropathies and skeletal dysplasias but not PKD, and their biophysical effects on channel function have not been elucidated. We identified and examined the functional behavior of a novel E6K mutant and of the previously known S94L and A217S mutant TRVP4 channels. The A217S mutation has been associated to mixed neuropathy and/or skeletal dysplasia phenotypes, however, the PKD carriers of these variants had not been diagnosed with these reported clinical manifestations. The presence of certain mutations in TRPV4 may influence the progression and severity of PKD through GOF mechanisms. PKD patients carrying TRVP4 mutations are putatively more likely to require dialysis or renal transplant as compared to those without these mutations.

Gut colonization and subsequent infection of neonates caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

The gut microbiota harbors diverse bacteria considered reservoirs for antimicrobial resistance genes. The global emergence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-PE) significantly contributes to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). We investigated the presence of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL-PEco) and ESBL-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (ESBL-PKpn) in neonatal patients' guts. Furthermore, we identified the factors contributing to the transition towards ESBL-PEco and ESBL-PKpn-associated healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). The study was conducted from August 2019 to February 2020, in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez. Rectal samples were obtained upon admission, on a weekly basis for a month, and then biweekly until discharge from the neonatology ward. Clinical data, culture results, and infection information were gathered. We conducted antimicrobial tests, multiplex PCR assay, and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) to determine the antimicrobial resistance profile and genetic relationships. A comparison between the group's controls and cases was performed using the Wilcoxon and Student t-tests. Of the 61 patients enrolled, 47 were included, and 203 rectal samples were collected, identifying 242 isolates. In 41/47 (87%) patients, colonization was due to ESBL-PEco or ESBL-PKpn. And nine of them developed HAIs (22%, 9/41). ESBL-PEco resistance to cephalosporins ranged from 25.4% to 100%, while ESBL-PKpn resistance varied from 3% to 99%, and both bacteria were susceptible to carbapenems, tigecillin, and colistin. The prevalent bla CTX-M-group-1 gene accounted for 77.2% in ESBL-PEco and 82.2% in ESBL-PKpn, followed by bla TEM 50% and bla OXA-1 43.8% in ESBL-PEco and bla TEM 80.2% and bla SHV 76.2% in ESBL-PKpn. Analysis of clonality revealed identical colonizing and infection isolates in only seven patients. Significant risk factors included hospital stay duration, duration of antibiotic treatment, and invasive device usage. Our findings suggest high ESBL-PEco and ESBL-PKpn rates of colonization often lead to infection in neonates. Attention should be paid to patients with ESBL-PE.

Prevalence of Dental Caries in Schoolchildren from the Galapagos Islands: ESSO-Gal Cohort Report.

Objective: Dental caries remains a prevalent disease worldwide. Several epidemiological studies have shown that it affects the oral health of the pediatric population, and the Galapagos population in Ecuador is no exception. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of dental caries and its association, based on baseline information from the Galapagos Oral Health Study (ESSO-Gal), in children of the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 804 children aged 2-11 years. The prevalence of dental caries was assessed using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS II) criteria, while the presence of dental biofilm was assessed using the Silness-Löe index. Descriptive statistics, including frequency analysis and measures of central tendency and dispersion, were performed. Inferential statistical analyses were conducted to identify associations between variables. Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS version 25.0 statistical program. Results: The caries prevalence rates based on ICDAS II codes 1-6, 1-2, and 3-6 were 98.01%, 96.9%, and 85%, respectively. A statistically significant difference was observed among the different islands regarding the cutoff point for ICDAS II codes 3-6 (p ≤ 0.001). Participants aged 6-11 years had the highest caries prevalence. Conclusions: The results show a high prevalence of dental caries among children in the Galapagos Islands, which increases with age. Contrary to expectations, the study did not find a significant correlation between the severity of dental caries and the presence of dental biofilm.

Nivel de conocimiento de Covid-19 entre estudiantes, docentes y personal administrativo que pertenecen a la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad Central del Ecuador

Introducción: Covid-19, una enfermedad letal que ha provocado estragos a nivel mundial causó una pandemia, afectando a casi todos los aspectos de la vida humana, por lo cual, se debe adquirir conocimientos sobre prevención, formar actitudes y comportamientos positivos para evitar más contagios y muertes. El objetivo fue determinar el nivel de conocimiento de Covid-19 entre estudiantes, docentes y personal administrativo que pertenecen a la Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad Central del Ecuador. Métodos: estudio observacional, analítico transversal, con una muestra conformada por 275 participantes entre docentes odontólogos, personal administrativo, estudiantes de pregrado y posgrado. Previo al estudio se realizó la traducción del cuestionario: Covid-19 Awareness Among Healthcare Students and Professionals in Mumbai Metropolitan Region: A Questionnaire-Based Survey, de inglés a español, siguiendo los debidos procesos de preparación, conciliación, retrotraducción, e informe final. Una vez establecida la fiabilidad del cuestionario (consistencia interna CCI= 0,89 y Alpha de Cronbach α= 0,63) se aplicó a la muestra total previo diseño en Google Forms y enviado a través de correo electrónico. Los datos fueron analizados en el programa estadístico SPSS v. 26 mediante la prueba de Chi-Cuadrado. Resultados: el promedio establecido del valor de la mediana mostró que los estudiantes de pregrado y los profesionales con un nivel educativo de tercer nivel tuvieron un mayor nivel de conocimientos que los otros grupos (p=0,014 y 0,012) respectivamente. Conclusiones: el grupo etario de 18 a 30 años, los estudiantes de universitarios de pregrado y los profesionales con el título de tercer nivel tuvieron un mejor nivel de conocimientos sobre Covid-19.

Introduction: Covid-19, a lethal disease that has wreaked havoc worldwide caused a pandemic, affecting almost all aspects of human life, therefore, it is necessary to acquire knowledge about prevention, form positive attitudes and behaviors to avoid more contagions and deaths. The objective was to determine the level of knowledge of Covid-19 among students, teachers and administrative personnel belonging to the Faculty of Dentistry of the Central University of Ecuador. Methods: observational, cross-sectional analytical study, with a sample of 275 participants including dental teachers, administrative personnel, undergraduate and graduate students. Prior to the study, the questionnaire Covid-19 Awareness Among Healthcare Students and Professionals in Mumbai Metropolitan Region: A Questionnaire-Based Survey was translated from English into Spanish, following the due processes of preparation, reconciliation, back-translation and final report. Once the reliability of the questionnaire was established (internal consistency CCI= 0,89 and Cronbach's Alpha α= 0,63), it was applied to the total sample after being designed in Google Forms and sent via e-mail. The data were analyzed in the SPSS v. 26 statistical program using the Chi-Square test. Results: the established average of the median value showed that undergraduate students and professionals with a third level education had a higher level of knowledge than the other groups (p=0,014 and 0,012) respectively. Conclusions: the age group 18-30 years, undergraduate university students and professionals with third level degree had a better level of knowledge about Covid-19.

Frecuencia de fuorosis dental y su asociación con el nivel socioeconómico en parroquia rural de Cotopaxi, Ecuador / Dental fuorosis frequency and its association with the socio- economic level at a rural area in Cotopaxi province, Ecuador

Objective: To determine dental fluorosis frequency by using the DEAN and TF Indexes on 4- and 15-years old children, and its correlation with the socioeconomic level reported by their parents. Methods: A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study were proposed and applied to a 115 students (4-15 years old) sample, enrolled in an educational institution located in Pujilí, Cotopaxi, Ecuador. After fulflling the inclusion criteria, underwent a clinical assessment of their four permanent incisors, registered by photographic examination using the DEAN and Thylstrup and Fejerskov (TF) Indexes, to detect the presence of dental fuorosis. Having the children's legal representatives flled out the INEC socio-economic survey, the collected data were analyzed through the statistical package SPSS v24. Results: Results showed the presence of fluorosis in low or moderate rates according to DEAN and 2 in TF without any diference in the fidelity detection between the two indexes; and no economic factor influence on the fluorosis causes was detected. Conclusions: There was not diference between the indexes used in the detection of fuorosis, with moderate rates found; the economic factor was not relevant.

Objetivo: determinar la frecuencia de fluorosis dental mediante el empleo del índice DEAN y TF en escolares entre 4 a 15 años, y su correlación con el nivel socioeconómico reportado por sus padres. Métodos: se plantea un estudio transversal descriptivo, en una muestra de 115 estudiantes entre 4 a 15 años, matriculados en una unidad educativa de Pujilí, Cotopaxi, Ecuador. Tras cumplimiento de los criterios de inclusión los menores fueron sometidos a una valoración clínica de sus cuatro incisivos permanentes, registrados mediante fotografías y estas evaluadas empleando los índices DEAN y Thylstrup and Fejerskov (TF), para detectar la presencia de fluorosis dental. Sus representantes legales llenaron la encuesta socio económica INEC. Los datos recolectados fueron analizados a través del paquete estadístico SPSS v24. Resultados: los resultados mostraron presencia de fluorosis en grados leves según DEAN y 2 en TF, sin una diferencia en cuanto a la fidelidad de detección entre los dos índices; la influencia del factor económico en la presencia de fluorosis no fue detectada. Conclusiones: no existió diferencia entre los índices empleados en la detección de fluorosis, encontrándose grados leves; el factor económico no fue relevante.

Prevalencia de fluorosis en menores de 4 a 15 años, según índice de Dean y su asociación con el nivel de flúor presente en el agua de consumo / Prevalence of fluorosis in children between 4 and 15 years of age according to Dean's index and its association with the level of fluoride present in drinking

Resumen Objetivo. Identificar la prevalencia de fluorosis en menores de 4 a 15 años de edad, según índice de Dean y su asociación con el nivel de flúor presente en el agua de consumo en la provincia de Cotopaxi. Previa una autorización de participación por parte de sus padres y aprobación del comité de la Universidad Central del Ecuador. Métodos. Fueron examinados 115 participantes en las edades de 4 a 15 años, siguiendo protocolos de registro fotográfico validados tras verificar y cumplimiento de criterios de inclusión. A su vez, se evaluaron muestras de agua de abastecimiento que fueron recolectadas según los protocolos adecuados y examinadas según la presencia de flúor. Las fotografías obtenidas fueron analizadas por tres evaluadores certificados y entrenados en la diferenciación de los grados de fluorosis según Dean mediante índice Kappa. Resultados. Los valores emitidos por cada evaluador fueron recolectados tabulados y procesados mediante el programa SPSS, y la prueba estadística de Chi cuadrado y correlación de Spearman, evidenciando ausencia de una relación estadísticamente significativa, entre las variables analizadas. Conclusión. La presencia de fluorosis de leve a moderada en la población analizada no guarda relación con el porcentaje de flúor presente en las aguas de consumo.

Abstract Objective. Identify the prevalence of fluorosis in children between 4 and 15 years of age according to the Dean's index, and determine its association with the level of fluoride present in drinking water from Cotopaxi province. Subsequent to the authorization by their parents and approval by the committee of the Central University of Ecuador Methods. 115 participants between the ages of 4 to 15 years old were examined following validated photographic registration protocols, after verifying and fulfilling the inclusion criteria, along with the supply water samples were collected following the adequate protocols and examined for the presence of fluoride. The obtained photographs were analyzed by three certified evaluators, who were trained in the differentiation of the degrees of fluorosis according to Dean by means of the Kappa index. Results. The values emitted by each evaluator were tabulated and processed through the SPSS program, using the statistical test of Chi-square and Spearman's correlation. The absence of a statistically significant relationship between the variables was observed. Conclusion: The presence of mild to moderate fluorosis in the analyzed population is not related to the percentage of fluoride present in drinking water.

Covid-19 y la odontología latinoamericana para pacientes con necesidades especiales / Covid-19 and latin american dentistry for patients with special needs / Covid-19 and dental care for patients with special needs in Latin America

Resumen La región de América Latina se ha convertido en la más afectada del mundo por la pandemia del COVID-19. Y personas con necesidades especiales, población ya vulnerable, están sufriendo un impacto significativo de la crisis actual. Dado que estas personas no pueden dejar de ser protegidas y cuidadas, un grupo de profesores de 10 países de América Latina se reunió para analizar la situación de la odontología para pacientes con necesidades especiales en la región. En todos los países, se evidenció que el confinamiento y las restricciones de desplazamiento están interrumpiendo el acceso a bienes y servicios esenciales para ellos. En cuanto a la odontología, la disposición general es posponer los procedimientos de rutina, a menos que sean clínicamente urgentes o de emergencia; adoptar estrictas medidas de protección personal y evitar o minimizar las intervenciones que puedan producir aerosoles. La atención odontológica remota, teleodontología, se considera como una herramienta fundamental en este momento, ya que permite evaluar la necesidad de atención presencial y ofrecer soporte, información y seguridad a los pacientes y familias. La pandemia nos ha demostrado, a todos, que impulsar la Promoción de la Salud es el verdadero camino, y que no debemos esperar a que se presenten condiciones que afecten la calidad de vida.

Resumo: A região da América Latina tem se tornado a mais afetada do mundo pela pandemia do COVID-19. E as pessoas com necessidades especiais, população já vulnerável, estão sofrendo um impacto significativo da crise atual. Uma vez que essas pessoas não podem deixar de ser protegidas e cuidadas, um grupo de professores de 10 países de América Latina se reuniu para analisar a situação da odontologia para pacientes com necessidades especiais na região. Em todos os países se verificaram que o confinamento e restrições de movimento estavam interrompendo o acesso a bens e serviços essenciais para eles. Para a odontologia, a orientação geral é adiar procedimentos de rotina, a menos que seja clinicamente urgente ou emergencial; adotar medidas rígidas de proteção individual e evitar ou minimizar intervenções que possam produzir aerossóis. O atendimento odontológico à distância, teleodontología, é considerada uma ferramenta fundamental neste momento, pois permite avaliar a necessidade de atendimento presencial e oferecer suporte, informação e segurança aos pacientes e famílias. A pandemia tem demostrado, para todos, que trabalhar na Promoção da Saúde é o verdadeiro caminho, e que não devemos esperar por condições que afetem a qualidade de vida.

Abstract Latin America has become the most affected region by the COVID-19 pandemic in the world. People with special needs-an already vulnerable population-are suffering terrible consequences on account of this crisis. These people need to be protected and cared for at all times. Therefore, a group of lecturers from ten Latin American countries came together to analyze the regional situation of dental care for patients with special needs. Every country shows evidence that lockdowns and movement restrictions interrupt these people's access to essential goods and services. The general course of action regarding dental care is to postpone routine procedures unless they are clinically urgent or an emergency, implement strict personal protection measures and avoid or minimize processes that may produce aerosols. Remote dental care is considered essential these days since it allows practitioners to assess the need for face-to-face care and offer support, information, and safety to patients and families. The pandemic has shown us all that supporting health promotion is the true path and that we should not wait until conditions that affect people's quality of life appear to act.

Tratamiento exitoso con Remdesivir y corticoides en un paciente con neumonía asociada a COVID-19: reporte de un caso / Successful treatment with Remdesivir and corticosteroids in a patient with COVID-19-associated pneumonia: a case report

El síndrome respiratorio agudo grave coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) se ha diseminado rápidamente a lo largo del mundo causando una mortalidad significativa en pacientes de alto riesgo con manifestaciones severas. A la fecha, Remdesivir ha sido el único antiviral autorizado por la FDA para uso de emergencia. Una de las posibles complicaciones de esta infección es el desarrollo de tormenta de citoquinas, para la cual no existe un tratamiento óptimo. Presentamos el caso de un varón de 48 años sin antecedentes médicos que acudió al hospital con disnea, tos, fiebre subjetiva y diarrea durante 10 días. La reacción de cadena polimerasa nasofaríngea fue positiva para SARS-CoV-2. Su estado respiratorio empeoró rápidamente hasta el punto de requerir oxígeno suplementario a través cánula nasal de alto flujo con 80% de FiO2. La tomografía computarizada de tórax mostró opacidades confluyentes en vidrio esmerilado en los lóbulos superiores, acompañadas de opacidades irregulares alveolares en los lóbulos inferiores bilateralmente. Se inició terapia con hidroxicloroquina, la cual se cambió a Remdesivir cuando estuvo disponible. Luego se inició metilprednisolona como tratamiento de una posible tormenta de citoquinas. La oxigenación del paciente mejoró significativamente en los días posteriores y fue dado de alta sin requerir oxigeno adicional y saturando 96% en medio ambiente. Nuestro caso ilustra el papel de Remdesivir en el tratamiento de la neumonía grave por COVID-19. También observamos un posible beneficio clínico de los corticoides en tormenta de citoquinas. Se necesitan más estudios para evaluar la eficacia de esta estrategia terapéutica.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has rapidly spread throughout the world causing significant mortality in high risk patients with severe manifestations. To date, Remdesivir has been the only antiviral authorized by FDA as therapy for emergency use. One of the potential complications of this infection is cytokine storm, which optimal treatment remains unknown. We present the case of a 48-year-old man with no past medical history who presented to the hospital with dyspnea, cough, subjective fever, and diarrhea for 10 days. Nasopharyngeal PCR was positive for SARS-CoV-2. His respiratory status rapidly worsened to the point of requiring supplemental oxygen by high flow nasal cannula with FiO2 of 80%. Chest computed tomography showed confluent ground glass opacities in upper lobes accompanied by patchy airspace opacities in lower lobes bilaterally. He was started on hydroxychloroquine, which was switched to Remdesivir when it became available. Then, methylprednisolone was initiated for suspected cytokine storm. The patient's oxygenation improved significantly over the following days and he was discharged home with no oxygen supplementation and saturating 96% on room air. Our case illustrates the role of Remdesivir for the treatment of severe COVID-19 pneumonia. We also observed a possible clinical benefit of corticosteroids in the context of suspected cytokine storm. Further studies are needed to evaluate this therapeutic strategy.

Uso de bolsa adiposa de Bichat pediculada como recurso para el cierre de comunicaciones y fístulas bucoantrales: informe de caso / Use of pedicle Bichat fat pad as a resource for the closure of communications and oroantral fistulas: case report

Resumen Introducción: El uso de un colgajo de bolsa adiposa de Bichat en el cierre de comunicaciones buco sinusales y defectos óseos maxilares ha sido reportada en varios estudios con resultados positivos, al ser una técnica sencilla y bien tolerada, gracias a su riqueza vascular, volumen y versatilidad, mostrando una baja tasa de complicaciones. Objetivo: Reportar el caso clínico de un paciente que acudió a la clínica universitaria de la Universidad UTE con una comunicación buco sinusal y el tratamiento quirúrgico a través de un colgajo pediculado de la bolsa adiposa de Bichat, como alternativa satisfactoria en el cierre de la comunicación y corrección de los defectos óseos intraorales. Metodología: Se obtuvo un colgajo mucoperiostico trapezoidal de avance recto hasta el margen palatino, fue ejecutada una fistulectomía, y mediante una incisión horizontal se conseguió la exposición de la bolsa adiposa para obtener tejido suficiente para cerrar la comunicación. Conclusiones: El uso de un colgajo de bolsa adiposa de Bichat gracias a su riqueza vascular, volumen, versatilidad y capacidad para realizar una metaplasia a tejido epitelial, por la presencia de células madre, es muy confiable.

Abstract Introduction: The use of buccal fat pad flap in closure of oroantral communications and maxillary bone defects has been reported in several studies with positive results, being a simple and well-tolerated technique, thanks to its vascular richness, volume and versatility, showing a lower complication rate. Objective: Report the clinical case of a patient who went to university clinic of Universidad UTE with a sinus oral communication and surgical treatment through a pedicle flap of buccal fat pad, as a satisfactory alternative in the closure of the communication and correction of intraoral bone defects. Methods: A mucoperiosteal trapezoidal flap was made to reach the palatal margin, a fistulectomy was also performed, and using a horizontal incision the buccal fat pad was exposed in order to obtain enough tissue to close the oroantral communications. Conclusions: The use of the flap technique in the buccal fat pad seems reliable thanks to its vascular characteristics, volume, versatility and capacity to experience an epithelial metaplasia because of the presence of stem cells.

Restablecimiento oclusal mediante procedimientos multidisciplinarios / Occlusal restoration by multidisciplinary procedures

RESUMEN Introducción: El edentulismo es la pérdida total o parcial de dientes, ocasionado principalmente por la caries y la enfermedad periodontal; es un proceso gradual que está comúnmente asociado al aumento de edad. Actualmente es considerado una discapacidad debido a la limitación funcional que ocasiona en quien lo presenta. Objetivo: Exponer el tratamiento rehabilitador multidisciplinario, funcional y estético en un paciente con desarmonías oclusales. Presentación del caso: Paciente masculino de 74 años, diagnosticado con edentulismo parcial bimaxilar, mediante examen clínico y radiológico. Se sometió a terapia periodontal generalizada, cirugía preprotésica, restauración de plano oclusal de forma directa e indirecta y rehabilitación bucal con prótesis removibles total superior y parcial inferior; lo cual le permitió recuperar funcionalidad, estética y autoestima. Conclusiones: El edentulismo desencadena alteración en el estado funcional y emocional del paciente. Un diagnóstico integral y plan de tratamiento multidisciplinario y ordenado desencadenó éxito en el presente caso(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: Edentulism is total or partial tooth loss mainly caused by dental caries and periodontal disease. It is a gradual process often associated to aging. At present edentulism is considered to be a disability, due to the functional limitations undergone by sufferers. Objective: Describe the multidisciplinary, functional and esthetic rehabilitation treatment provided to a patient with occlusal disharmony. Case presentation: A 74-year-old male patient was diagnosed with bimaxillary partial edentulism based on clinical and radiographic examination. The patient underwent generalized periodontal therapy, pre-prosthetic surgery, direct and indirect occlusal plane restoration, and oral rehabilitation with total upper and partial lower removable prostheses, as a result of which he recovered his functionality, esthetic appearance and self-esteem. Conclusions: Edentulism triggers changes in the functional and emotional state of patients. Comprehensive diagnosis and orderly multidisciplinary treatment led to success in the case herein presented(AU)

Impacto de la fluorosis dental en la calidad de vida de adolescentes ecuatorianos de entre 11 a 14 años / Impact of dental fluorosis over the quality of life of ecuadorian teenagers between 11 and 14 years

Resumen El propósito de este estudio fue determinar el impacto de la fluorosis dental (FD) en la calidad de vida (CV) de adolescentes entre 11 a 14 años del cantón Latacunga, Cotopaxi, Ecuador. Materiales y métodos: Se plantea un estudio descriptivo, en una muestra de 128 adolescentes entre 11 a 14 años y sus respectivos padres, empleando como instrumentos de recolección de información, la encuesta INEN para determinar el nivel socioeconómico, el cuestionario CPQ11-14 para precisar calidad de vida, y un registro fotográfico intraoral de cada adolescente, analizado posteriormente por tres investigadores según el índice de Thylstrup y Fejerskov (TF). Un análisis químico sobre la concentración de flúor en las fuentes de abastecimiento de agua de consumo, fue ejecutado complementariamente. Resultados: La prevalencia de FD fue de 70,3% en los grados TF 1, 2,3. El análisis químico del agua mostró una media de flúor de 1,06 mg/l. Las pruebas estadísticas revelaron una relación de la CV con FD (p = 0,000) y con el nivel socioeconómico (p = 0,001). Conclusiones: La CV se ve afectada con la presencia de FD y el nivel socioeconómico, sin relación con la edad, sexo o la presencia de flúor en el agua de consumo.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of dental fluorosis (DF) over the quality of life (QoL) of adolescents between 11 and 14 years old, of Latacunga, Cotopaxi, Ecuador. Materials and methods: This descriptive study had a sample of 128 adolescents between 11 to 14 years old and their respective parents. The information was collected through, the INEN survey to determine socioeconomic status and the CPQ11-14 survey to determine adolescents' QoL. In addition, intraoral photographic records were obtained for DF detection according Thylstrup and Fejerskov index (TF) and the public water company accomplished chemical analysis of fluoride concentration in water sources. Results: The prevalence of DF was 70.3% corresponding to TF 1, 2, 3 index. Chemical analyzes of water showed an average of 1.06 mg / l on Fluoride levels. Statistical analysis showed correlation between QoL and Fluorosis presence (p = 0.000) and QoL to socio-economic level (p = 0.001). Conclusions: QoL relates to DF and the socio-economic level. However, it is not to age, sex or fluoride levels in consumption water. Key words: Teenagers, dental fluorosis, oral health, life quality, water fluoridation, epidemiology, dental health survey, public health dentistry.