Detection, Characterization and Sequencing of BTV Serotypes Circulating in Cuba in 2022.

In Cuba, despite a high sero-prevalence of bluetongue virus (BTV), circulating serotypes remain unknown. The aim of this study was to identify circulating BTV serotypes in farms throughout the western region of Cuba. Blood samples were collected from 200 young cattle and sheep between May and July 2022 for virological analyses (PCR, viral isolation and virus neutralization) and genome sequencing. The results confirmed viral circulation, with viro-prevalence of 25% for BTV. The virus was isolated from 18 blood samples and twelve BTV serotypes were identified by sequencing RT-PCR products targeting the segment 2 of the BTV genome (BTV-1, 2, 3, 6, 10, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 22 and 24). Finally, the full genome sequences of 17 Cuban BTV isolates were recovered using a Sequence Independent Single Primer Amplification (SISPA) approach combined to MinION Oxford Nanopore sequencing technology. All together, these results highlight the co-circulation of a wide diversity of BTV serotypes in a quite restricted area and emphasize the need for entomological and livestock surveillance, particularly in light of recent changes in the global distribution and nature of BTV infections.

Early-life sugar consumption and breastfeeding practices: a multicenter initiative in Latin America.

The aim of this multicenter study was to explore the early-life sugar consumption and dietary practices in Latin America as well as to investigate the association between breastfeeding duration and the age at which foods and beverages with added sugars are introduced. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 805 1- to 3-year-old children from 10 Latin American countries, as a complementary study to the Research Observatory for Dental Caries of the Latin American Region (OICAL). A Food Frequency Questionnaire previously tested in different countries was applied to children's mothers and data on breastfeeding and age at introduction of sugary foods and beverages was collected. Statistical analysis included the Kruskal-Wallis test and Poisson regression with robust variance, with the calculation of crude and adjusted mean ratios (MR) and 95% of confidence intervals (CI). The average age at introduction of sugary foods and beverages was 10.1 months (95%CI 9.7-10.4) and 9.6 (95%CI 9.2-9.9) months, respectively, with a significant variation between countries (p < 0.001). The average daily frequency of sugary foods-beverages was 3.3 times per day (95%CI 3.1-3.5) and varied significantly between countries (p = 0.004). Breastfeeding duration of over six months was associated with an increase in the age of introduction of sweet drinks (16%; MR 1.16; 95%CI 1.05-1.28) and foods (21%; MR 1.21; 95%CI 1.10-1.33). In conclusion, most children from vulnerable settings in Latin America start consuming sugary products in the first year of life and a high frequency of consumption was reported through early childhood. Additionally, breastfeeding contributes to a delay in the introduction of sugary products.

Situational diagnosis of policies in Latin American and Caribbean countries for the use of fluoride and reduction of sugar consumption.

Policy evaluation and guidance on fluoride use and sugar consumption in Latin American and Caribbean countries (LACC) may provide a scientific evidence basis for policymakers, dental professionals, civil society organizations and individuals committed to improving public oral health. A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the extent of implementation of policies/guidelines on fluoride use, and sugar consumption in LACC. The study had two stages. First a questionnaire covering four major areas was developed: fluoridation of public water supplies; salt fluoridation; fluoride dentifrices, and sugar consumption. Then, the questionnaire was applied to collect data among representative participants in public oral health from LACC. Ninety-six participants from 18 LACC answered the questionnaire. One-hundred seventy documents were attached, and 285 links of websites were provided by the respondents. Implementation of policies and guidelines on water and table salt fluoridation and processed and ultra-processed food consumption were found in most countries, with some issues in the consensus and coverage. Thus, differences were identified in the extent of implementation of public oral health strategies on sugar consumption and fluoridation among the countries. There is no consensus on the policies in LACC to reduce sugar consumption and for the use of fluoride. A few policies and guidelines were applied in isolated countries, with a variety of strategies and standards. For future actions, it will be important to encourage the development of strategies and public policies within countries, and to evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies in reducing dental caries and in improving oral health in LACC.

Consenso colombiano de la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal pediátrica

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Introduction: Pediatric ulcerative colitis (CUP), pediatric Crohn's disease (PCD), and pediatric inflammatory bowel disease not classifiable (PIDNCID) have clinical and psychosocial particularities that differentiate them from those of adults and may condition different therapeutic approaches due to possible nutritional, growth and developmental repercussions, representing a challenge for the pediatrician and gastroenterologist. Objective: Develop expert consensus evidence-based recommendations for the timely and safe diagnosis and treatment of Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease (PID) in children under 18 years of age for professionals caring for these patients and healthcare payers. Methodology: Through a panel of experts from the Colombian College of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (COLGAHNP) and a multidisciplinary group, 35 questions were asked regarding the clinical picture, diagnosis, and treatment of PID. Through a critical review and analysis of the literature with particular emphasis on the main clinical practice guidelines (CPGs), randomized clinical trials (RCTs), and meta-analyses of the last ten years, from which the experts made 77 recommendations that responded to each of the research questions with their respective practical points. Subsequently, each of the statements was voted on within the developer group, including the statements that achieved > 80%. Results: All statements scored > 80%. PID has greater extension, severity, and evolution towards stenosis, perianal disease, extraintestinal manifestations, and growth retardation compared to adult patients, so its management should be performed by multidisciplinary groups led by pediatric gastroenterologists and prepare them for a transition to adulthood. Porto's criteria allow a practical classification of PID. In CPE, we should use the Paris classification and perform ileocolonoscopy and esophagogastroduodenoscopy, since 50% have upper involvement, using the SES-CD (UCEIS/Mayo in CUP) and taking multiple biopsies. Initial labs should include inflammatory markers and fecal calprotectin and rule out intestinal infections. Treatment, induction, and maintenance of PID should be individualized and decided according to risk stratification. Follow-up should use PCDAI and PUCAI for the last 48 hours. Immunologists and geneticists should evaluate patients with early and infantile PID. Conclusion: A consensus guideline is provided with evidence-based recommendations on timely and safe diagnosis and treatments in patients with ILD.

Initial oral microbiota and the impact of delivery mode and feeding practices in 0 to 2 month-old infants.

The aim of this study was to describe the initial oral microbiota and how delivery mode and feeding practices impact its diversity in 0-2-month-old infants. This was a cross-sectional study that consisted of one collection of saliva samples from 0-2-month infants at baseline. Ten pairs of mothers and infants were selected. Medical health history, pregnancy, birth, feeding practices (breastfeeding or milk formula), and infant health status was obtained. Pooled microbial samples were obtained from the oral surfaces using a sterile cotton swab. Infants did not receive any breast milk before sampling. After collection, each swab was analyzed through microbiological culture-based procedures, using selective mediums. Cultures were analyzed for the presence of Streptococci, Lactobacillus, Staphylococcus, Enterobacterium , and Candida albicans . Twenty percent of the samples were serially diluted (10-2) to assess the number of bacteria expressed as CFU. Bacillota was the leading phylogenetic group in the infant's pooled microbial sample. The most prevalent genera were Streptococcus, Lactobacillus , and Staphylococcus . Two participants had a positive growth of Candida albicans . The association between genus group, type of delivery, and feeding practices was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Lactobacillus genus was frequently present in the cesarean delivery group but with slightly higher counts in a vaginal delivery study subject. Exclusively breastfed infants showed presence of Streptococcus, Lactobacillus, Staphylococcus . The oral microbiome in infants (0-2 month-old) is highly heterogeneous and dynamic. Microbiota composition seems to be impacted by mode of delivery, with slight differences among groups. Breastmilk appears as an essential factor in maintaining the oral microbiome's stability and diversity.

Initial oral microbiota and the impact of delivery mode and feeding practices in 0 to 2 month-old infants

Abstract The aim of this study was to describe the initial oral microbiota and how delivery mode and feeding practices impact its diversity in 0-2-month-old infants. This was a cross-sectional study that consisted of one collection of saliva samples from 0-2-month infants at baseline. Ten pairs of mothers and infants were selected. Medical health history, pregnancy, birth, feeding practices (breastfeeding or milk formula), and infant health status was obtained. Pooled microbial samples were obtained from the oral surfaces using a sterile cotton swab. Infants did not receive any breast milk before sampling. After collection, each swab was analyzed through microbiological culture-based procedures, using selective mediums. Cultures were analyzed for the presence of Streptococci, Lactobacillus, Staphylococcus, Enterobacterium , and Candida albicans . Twenty percent of the samples were serially diluted (10-2) to assess the number of bacteria expressed as CFU. Bacillota was the leading phylogenetic group in the infant's pooled microbial sample. The most prevalent genera were Streptococcus, Lactobacillus , and Staphylococcus . Two participants had a positive growth of Candida albicans . The association between genus group, type of delivery, and feeding practices was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Lactobacillus genus was frequently present in the cesarean delivery group but with slightly higher counts in a vaginal delivery study subject. Exclusively breastfed infants showed presence of Streptococcus, Lactobacillus, Staphylococcus . The oral microbiome in infants (0-2 month-old) is highly heterogeneous and dynamic. Microbiota composition seems to be impacted by mode of delivery, with slight differences among groups. Breastmilk appears as an essential factor in maintaining the oral microbiome's stability and diversity.

Early-life sugar consumption and breastfeeding practices: a multicenter initiative in Latin America

Abstract The aim of this multicenter study was to explore the early-life sugar consumption and dietary practices in Latin America as well as to investigate the association between breastfeeding duration and the age at which foods and beverages with added sugars are introduced. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 805 1- to 3-year-old children from 10 Latin American countries, as a complementary study to the Research Observatory for Dental Caries of the Latin American Region (OICAL). A Food Frequency Questionnaire previously tested in different countries was applied to children's mothers and data on breastfeeding and age at introduction of sugary foods and beverages was collected. Statistical analysis included the Kruskal-Wallis test and Poisson regression with robust variance, with the calculation of crude and adjusted mean ratios (MR) and 95% of confidence intervals (CI). The average age at introduction of sugary foods and beverages was 10.1 months (95%CI 9.7-10.4) and 9.6 (95%CI 9.2-9.9) months, respectively, with a significant variation between countries (p < 0.001). The average daily frequency of sugary foods-beverages was 3.3 times per day (95%CI 3.1-3.5) and varied significantly between countries (p = 0.004). Breastfeeding duration of over six months was associated with an increase in the age of introduction of sweet drinks (16%; MR 1.16; 95%CI 1.05-1.28) and foods (21%; MR 1.21; 95%CI 1.10-1.33). In conclusion, most children from vulnerable settings in Latin America start consuming sugary products in the first year of life and a high frequency of consumption was reported through early childhood. Additionally, breastfeeding contributes to a delay in the introduction of sugary products.

Situational diagnosis of policies in Latin American and Caribbean countries for the use of fluoride and reduction of sugar consumption

Abstract Policy evaluation and guidance on fluoride use and sugar consumption in Latin American and Caribbean countries (LACC) may provide a scientific evidence basis for policymakers, dental professionals, civil society organizations and individuals committed to improving public oral health. A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the extent of implementation of policies/guidelines on fluoride use, and sugar consumption in LACC. The study had two stages. First a questionnaire covering four major areas was developed: fluoridation of public water supplies; salt fluoridation; fluoride dentifrices, and sugar consumption. Then, the questionnaire was applied to collect data among representative participants in public oral health from LACC. Ninety-six participants from 18 LACC answered the questionnaire. One-hundred seventy documents were attached, and 285 links of websites were provided by the respondents. Implementation of policies and guidelines on water and table salt fluoridation and processed and ultra-processed food consumption were found in most countries, with some issues in the consensus and coverage. Thus, differences were identified in the extent of implementation of public oral health strategies on sugar consumption and fluoridation among the countries. There is no consensus on the policies in LACC to reduce sugar consumption and for the use of fluoride. A few policies and guidelines were applied in isolated countries, with a variety of strategies and standards. For future actions, it will be important to encourage the development of strategies and public policies within countries, and to evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies in reducing dental caries and in improving oral health in LACC.

Impact on oral health-quality of life in infants: Multicenter study in Latin American countries.

To assess the impact of oral conditions on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in infants in ten Latin America countries (LAC). A cross-sectional study was conducted with 930 pairs of 1-to-3-year-old children/parents from 10 LAC, as a complementary study of the Research Observatory for Dental Caries of the Latin American Region. The scale ECOHIS, previously tested and valid in ten countries, was applied to parents/caregivers of children to measure OHRQoL. Statistical analysis included descriptive data analysis and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA-One-Way) were performed to compare age groups with OHRQoL. Bootstrapping procedures (1000 re-samplings; 95%CI Bca) were performed. The mean scores of the 'Child Impact' section in the LAC was 4.0(±8.3), in the 'Family Impact' section was 2.0(±4.0), and in overall ECOHIS score was 6.0(±12.0). In the 'Child Impact' section, Argentina 10.0(+2.4) and Venezuela 17.8(±17.5) demonstrated mean scores higher than the LAC total data. In the 'Family Impact' section, the countries with higher mean scores were Argentina 4.9(±2.0), Ecuador 2.1(±3.1) and Venezuela 7.9(±7.8). In the overall ECOHIS score, Argentina 15.1 (±4.1) and Venezuela 25.7(±25.2) has higher mean scores than the values of LAC. There is an association between children's age and parents' report of impact on the OHRQoL (p<0.001). Three-year-olds had a higher mean when compared to one- and two-year-olds, both in the Impact on the Child and Impact on the Family (p<0.001) sections, as well as in the overall ECOHIS (p<0.001). In conclusion, there are differences in OHRQoL among Latin American countries, impacting older children more significantly.

Impact on oral health-quality of life in infants: Multicenter study in Latin American countries

Abstract To assess the impact of oral conditions on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in infants in ten Latin America countries (LAC). A cross-sectional study was conducted with 930 pairs of 1-to-3-year-old children/parents from 10 LAC, as a complementary study of the Research Observatory for Dental Caries of the Latin American Region. The scale ECOHIS, previously tested and valid in ten countries, was applied to parents/caregivers of children to measure OHRQoL. Statistical analysis included descriptive data analysis and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA-One-Way) were performed to compare age groups with OHRQoL. Bootstrapping procedures (1000 re-samplings; 95%CI Bca) were performed. The mean scores of the 'Child Impact' section in the LAC was 4.0(±8.3), in the 'Family Impact' section was 2.0(±4.0), and in overall ECOHIS score was 6.0(±12.0). In the 'Child Impact' section, Argentina 10.0(+2.4) and Venezuela 17.8(±17.5) demonstrated mean scores higher than the LAC total data. In the 'Family Impact' section, the countries with higher mean scores were Argentina 4.9(±2.0), Ecuador 2.1(±3.1) and Venezuela 7.9(±7.8). In the overall ECOHIS score, Argentina 15.1 (±4.1) and Venezuela 25.7(±25.2) has higher mean scores than the values of LAC. There is an association between children's age and parents' report of impact on the OHRQoL (p<0.001). Three-year-olds had a higher mean when compared to one- and two-year-olds, both in the Impact on the Child and Impact on the Family (p<0.001) sections, as well as in the overall ECOHIS (p<0.001). In conclusion, there are differences in OHRQoL among Latin American countries, impacting older children more significantly.

Resumo Avaliar o impacto das condições bucais na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde bucal (QVRSB) em crianças de dez países da América Latina (AL). Foi realizado um estudo transversal com 930 pares de crianças/pais de 1 a 3 anos de 10 países da AL, como estudo complementar do Research Observatory for Dental Caries of the Latin American Region. A escala ECOHIS, previamente testada e validada em dez países, foi aplicada a pais/cuidadores de crianças para mensurar a QVRSB. A análise estatística incluiu análise descritiva de dados e análise de variância unidirecional (ANOVA-One-Way) para comparar grupos etários com QVRSB. Procedimentos de bootstrapping (1000 reamostragens; 95%IC Bca) foram realizados. A pontuação média da seção 'Impacto na Criança' na AL foi 4,0 (±8,3), na seção 'Impacto na Família' foi 2,0 (±4,0) e no escore total do ECOHIS foi 6,0 (±12,0). Na seção 'Impacto na Criança', Argentina 10,0(+2,4) e Venezuela 17,8(±17,5) demonstraram pontuações médias superiores aos dados totais da AL. Na seção 'Impacto na Família', os países com pontuações médias mais altas foram Argentina 4,9(±2,0), Equador 2,1(±3,1) e Venezuela 7,9(±7,8). No escore total do ECOHIS, Argentina 15,1 (±4,1) e Venezuela 25,7(±25,2) apresentaram escores médios superiores aos valores de AL. Houve associação entre a idade das crianças e o relato dos pais de impacto na QVRSB (p<0,001). As crianças de três anos tiveram média maior quando comparadas às de um e dois anos, tanto nas seções 'Impacto na Criança' e 'Impacto na Família' (p<0,001), quanto no escore total ECOHIS (p<0,001). Em conclusão, houveram diferenças na QVRSB entre os países da América Latina, impactando de forma mais significativa as crianças mais velhas.

Caries experience and associated risk factors in Venezuelan 6-12-year-old schoolchildren.

This research aims to provide updated information on caries experience and associated risk factors in children 6-12 years old. A cross-sectional and descriptive study design was carried out with a non-probabilistic, convenient sample of 209 children male and female. Clinical examinations were performed by calibrated dental students following WHO detection criteria. Caries indices dmft and DMFT were calculated. Caries Risk Assessment data was collected using an adapted CAMBRA instrument; following the International Caries Care guidelines. Descriptive statistics were performed to analyze the results and Chi-square test, Contingency Coefficient (C) and Corrected Typified Residues were calculated to determine the association between variables. 58% of the total population had dental caries lesions in its more severe stages (cavitation) and 42% were apparently healthy (AHS) without any cavitated lesions. The mean dmft index was 1.34 ± 1.93, and the mean DMFT index was 0.63 ± 1.22. Lesion severity remained between 1-2 teeth affected on both dentitions. A statistically significant association (p = 0.035) between the health condition and toothbrushing was stablished with a degree of dependence of C = 0.144. A positive standardized residual of 2.1 was evident for schoolchildren that experience caries lesion that never brush their teeth and AHS that brushed their teeth more than once. No association (p = 0.081) was found between health condition and intake of sugary snacks and beverages. A severe dental caries experience with a statistically significant association between the health condition and toothbrushing with fluoridated toothpaste 1450 ppm > 1 a day and a positive correlation in schoolchildren that experience caries lesion that never brush their teeth.

Caries experience and associated risk factors in Venezuelan 6-12-year-old schoolchildren

Abstract: This research aims to provide updated information on caries experience and associated risk factors in children 6-12 years old. A cross-sectional and descriptive study design was carried out with a non-probabilistic, convenient sample of 209 children male and female. Clinical examinations were performed by calibrated dental students following WHO detection criteria. Caries indices dmft and DMFT were calculated. Caries Risk Assessment data was collected using an adapted CAMBRA instrument; following the International Caries Care guidelines. Descriptive statistics were performed to analyze the results and Chi-square test, Contingency Coefficient (C) and Corrected Typified Residues were calculated to determine the association between variables. 58% of the total population had dental caries lesions in its more severe stages (cavitation) and 42% were apparently healthy (AHS) without any cavitated lesions. The mean dmft index was 1.34 ± 1.93, and the mean DMFT index was 0.63 ± 1.22. Lesion severity remained between 1-2 teeth affected on both dentitions. A statistically significant association (p = 0.035) between the health condition and toothbrushing was stablished with a degree of dependence of C = 0.144. A positive standardized residual of 2.1 was evident for schoolchildren that experience caries lesion that never brush their teeth and AHS that brushed their teeth more than once. No association (p = 0.081) was found between health condition and intake of sugary snacks and beverages. A severe dental caries experience with a statistically significant association between the health condition and toothbrushing with fluoridated toothpaste 1450 ppm > 1 a day and a positive correlation in schoolchildren that experience caries lesion that never brush their teeth.

Management of dental caries lesions in Latin American and Caribbean countries.

Caries management at the lesion level is dependent on the lesion activity, the presence of a cavitation (either cleanable or non-cleanable), and lesion depth as evaluated via radiographic examination. A variety of non-invasive, micro-invasive, and minimally invasive treatment (with or without restoration) options are available for primary and permanent teeth. Non-invasive strategies include oral hygiene instructions, dietary counseling, and personal as well as professional use of fluoridated products that reduce demineralization and increase re-mineralization. Micro-invasive procedures include the use of occlusal resin sealants and resin infiltrants, while minimally invasive strategies comprise those related to selective removal of caries tissues and placement of restorations. Deep caries management includes indirect pulp capping, while exposed pulp may be treated using direct pulp capping and partial or complete pulpotomy. The aim of the present study was to review available evidence on recommended preventive and restorative strategies for caries lesions in Latin American/Caribbean countries, and subsequently develop evidence-based recommendations for treatment options that take into consideration material availability, emphasize ways to adapt available treatments to the local context, and suggest ways in which dentists and health systems can adopt these treatments.

Management of dental caries lesions in Latin American and Caribbean countries

Abstract Caries management at the lesion level is dependent on the lesion activity, the presence of a cavitation (either cleanable or non-cleanable), and lesion depth as evaluated via radiographic examination. A variety of non-invasive, micro-invasive, and minimally invasive treatment (with or without restoration) options are available for primary and permanent teeth. Non-invasive strategies include oral hygiene instructions, dietary counseling, and personal as well as professional use of fluoridated products that reduce demineralization and increase re-mineralization. Micro-invasive procedures include the use of occlusal resin sealants and resin infiltrants, while minimally invasive strategies comprise those related to selective removal of caries tissues and placement of restorations. Deep caries management includes indirect pulp capping, while exposed pulp may be treated using direct pulp capping and partial or complete pulpotomy. The aim of the present study was to review available evidence on recommended preventive and restorative strategies for caries lesions in Latin American/Caribbean countries, and subsequently develop evidence-based recommendations for treatment options that take into consideration material availability, emphasize ways to adapt available treatments to the local context, and suggest ways in which dentists and health systems can adopt these treatments.

Difference in the duration of pediatric diabetic ketoacidosis: Comparison of new-onset to known type 1 diabetes.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the duration (hours until HCO3- ≥ 15 mmol/L) of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) episodes that are the first manifestation of new type 1 diabetes (NT1D) and those that are a complication in patients with previously diagnosed type 1 diabetes (PT1D). METHODS: A multicenter retrospective cohort study was designed. The duration of DKA was measured from the start of the treatment. The primary outcome was the comparison of the time needed in each group to reach HCO3- ≥ 15 mmol/L. The secondary outcomes were the comparison of the time to reach pH ≥ 7.3 and length of hospital stay in each group. Data were analyzed with a bivariate analysis of the variables vs primary outcome. Then, a regression model was analyzed. Results There were 305 episodes included (NT1D: 115, PT1D: 190). DKA in the NT1D group lasted longer (NT1D 20 (16-19) vs PT1D 12 (8-16), hours, P < .01) with a significant difference in each level of DKA severity. This group also took longer to reach pH ≥ 7.3 (NT1D 16 (12-22) vs PT1D 9 (6-12), hours, P < .01) and had a longer hospital stay (NT1D 9 (6-12) vs PT1D 7 (4-10), hours, P < .01). CONCLUSION: The duration of DKA is longer in patients with NT1D regardless of characteristics like DKA severity, duration of symptoms, and type of treatments received.

Comparison of the Detection of Early Occlusal Caries in Extracted Human Permanent Molar Teeth by Electrical Conductance and Biopsy Means.

OBJECTIVES: An in vitro study was performed to detect occlusal caries lesions of extracted permanent human molars by electrical conductance measurement with the Ortek ECD™ electronic device, and each tooth was sectioned and biopsied to validate and evaluate results. METHODS: Thirty-nine permanent molars were extracted. Thirteen were freshly erupted and had little opportunity to develop lesions. Twenty-six were in the mouth longer and likely to be carious. After extraction and storage in a mild disinfectant, each tooth was thoroughly rinsed with distilled water and positioned upright to enable its electrical conductance measurement. Electrical conductance was measured in pits and fissures of carious and non-carious permanent molars with an Ortek ECD. Crowns were sectioned horizontally producing 630 µm thick slices and examined individually for demineralization by light microscopy and photography. Tooth biopsy was analyzed to ascertain the degree of tooth demineralization. RESULTS: Visual examination by light microscopy and photography of the sections of non-carious and carious teeth were analyzed. Noncarious teeth showed no mineral loss and showed an electrical conductance score of 0.0 µA. In carious teeth, this score ranged from 0.3 to 3.0. A significant (p < 0.001) correlation coefficient (r) of 0.914 was obtained. Electrical conductance versus biopsy resulted in high values for sensitivity (100%) and specificity (93%). It showed a positive predictive value (PPV) of 96% and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 100% for electrical conductance versus biopsy. CONCLUSIONS: Subject to in vivo clinical support, the Ortek ECD is likely to prove to be the best method for detection and evaluation of early occlusal caries.

Mirada del estudiante de enfermería sobre el aprendizaje y la aplicación del proceso de atención de enfermería / Nursing students’ view on learning and implementing the nursing process

Resumen:

Introducción: el proceso de atención de enfermería (PAE) es una herramienta para sistematizar y evaluar el cuidado a la persona; por ello, es imprescindible que durante el proceso formativo de los estudiantes de licenciatura de enfermería se promueva el desarrollo de competencias intelectuales, técnicas y relaciónales que les permitan la buena práctica de dicha herramienta. Objetivo: analizar los factores que favorecen o limitan el aprendizaje y la práctica del PAE a los estudiantes de licenciatura de enfermería.

Metodología: se realizó un abordaje mixto en dos fases: la fase cuantitativa descriptiva incluyó a 235 estudiantes de licenciatura en enfermería, procedentes de dos instituciones educativas; para esta, se estructuró una encuesta para la recolección de los datos. En la fase cualitativa se trabajó con dos grupos focales, cada grupo de siete estudiantes por institución educativa. Resultados: más del 50 % de los estudiantes tienen conocimientos de promoción de la salud, comunicación y teorías y modelos, entre otros aspectos. Consideran que una limitante es el tiempo que se dedica para realizar esas actividades y que saber utilizar las taxonomías les facilitó hacerlo. Al respecto, los estudiantes de los grupos focales coinciden al opinar que los profesores proporcionaron herramientas para realizar el proceso de enfermería; sin embargo, una limitante fue la metodología de enseñanza y los criterios de evaluación empleados por los profesores. Conclusión: se debe mejorar en el proceso educativo en cuanto a enseñanza y evaluación.

Abstract:

Introduction: Nursing Process (NP) is a tool to systematize and evaluate care to the individual, so it is essential that during the learning process of undergraduate nursing students the development of intellectual, technical and relationship skills is promoted to allow the good practice of this tool. Objective: To analyze the factors that favor or hinder learning and practicing of NP for undergraduate nursing students.

Methods: A mixed approach was conducted in two phases, descriptive quantitative phase included 235 undergraduate nursing students from two educational institutions; a survey for data collection was structured. In the qualitative phase, the work was developed with two focus groups, each group of seven students per school.

Results: More than 50 % of students have knowledge of health promotion, communication and theories and models, among others. They consider that a limitation is the time spent to do it, to know how to use taxonomies made easier for them to develop NP. In this regard, students in the focus groups agree to review that teachers provided tools to perform the nursing process; however, a limitation was teaching methodology and evaluation criteria used by teachers. Conclusion: Although the results with the two approaches are similar, it should be considered improvements in the educational process in regard to the teaching and assessment.

Dental caries experience in schoolchildren and the impact of non-cavitated lesions on the caries index

El objetivo de este artículo fue evaluar la experiencia de caries en escolares de 11 a 13 años de edad del Municipio Sucre y el impacto de las lesiones no cavitadas en el índice de caries. Seseleccionó una muestra a conveniencia de 12 escuelas ubicadas en el Municipio Sucre, Estado Miranda, Venezuela. Previo consentimiento informado, se examinaron 1484 niños utilizandoluz artificial, espejo #5 y explorador #23; siguiendo los criterios propuestos por Radike (1972), modificados por Acevedo et al (2005). La detección de las lesiones iniciales se realizó previaprofilaxis y secado del diente durante 5 segundos (con jeringa triple). Resultados: La prevalencia de caries fue de 94,07 por ciento y el índice CPOS promedio fue de 4,35±4,21 aumentandosignificativamente a 6,45±5,01 cuando se incorporaron las lesiones iníciales (p<0,05). De acuerdo al género, seobservó un CPOS mayor en las niñas (4,51±4,45) al compararlo con los varones (4,21±3,97), sin diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p>0,05). El mismo patrón se observó cuando seincorporaron las lesiones iníciales al CPOS, 6,67±5,15 para niñas y 6,26±4,88 para varones. Las lesiones no cavitadas representaron el 33 por ciento del total de lesiones cariosas. Conclusión: Los resultados indican una alta prevalencia de caries en lapoblación estudiada, así como la importancia de incluir las lesiones no cavitadas al índice CPOS.

Dental caries experience in schoolchildren and the impact of non-cavitated lesions on the caries index

El objetivo de este artículo fue evaluar la experiencia de caries en escolares de 11 a 13 años de edad del Municipio Sucre y el impacto de las lesiones no cavitadas en el índice de caries. Seseleccionó una muestra a conveniencia de 12 escuelas ubicadas en el Municipio Sucre, Estado Miranda, Venezuela. Previo consentimiento informado, se examinaron 1484 niños utilizandoluz artificial, espejo #5 y explorador #23; siguiendo los criterios propuestos por Radike (1972), modificados por Acevedo et al (2005). La detección de las lesiones iniciales se realizó previaprofilaxis y secado del diente durante 5 segundos (con jeringa triple). Resultados: La prevalencia de caries fue de 94,07 por ciento y el índice CPOS promedio fue de 4,35±4,21 aumentandosignificativamente a 6,45±5,01 cuando se incorporaron las lesiones iníciales (p<0,05). De acuerdo al género, seobservó un CPOS mayor en las niñas (4,51±4,45) al compararlo con los varones (4,21±3,97), sin diferencia estadísticamente significativa (p>0,05). El mismo patrón se observó cuando seincorporaron las lesiones iníciales al CPOS, 6,67±5,15 para niñas y 6,26±4,88 para varones. Las lesiones no cavitadas representaron el 33 por ciento del total de lesiones cariosas. Conclusión: Los resultados indican una alta prevalencia de caries en lapoblación estudiada, así como la importancia de incluir las lesiones no cavitadas al índice CPOS.(AU)

Detection of infectious bronchitis virus and Avian metapneumovirus by a duplex semi-nested reversetranscription–polymerase chain reaction assay / Detecção do vírus da bronquite infecciosa das galinhas e do metapneumovírus aviário utilizando uma reação de transcrição reversa com reação em cadeia pela polimerase duplex

Duplex RT-PCR assay is reported for the simultaneous detection of avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) and avian metapneumovirus (aMPV), the causative agents of major diseases in poultry. The duplex RT-PCR assay optimized showed a detection limit of 10-3 (101 EID50/50m L for IBV and 100.5 EID50/50m L for aMPV, respectively when two viruses were mixed and 10-1 for each one separated (103 EID50/50m L for IBV and 102.5 EID50/50m L for aMPV, respectively. It was specific, sensitive and applicable for the rapid detection of these viruses in clinical samples.

Descreve-se um ensaio de duplex RT-PCR assay para a detecção simultânea do vírus da bronquite infecciosa das galinhas (IBV) e do metapneumovirus aviário (aMPV), agentes etiológicos de doenças de elevada importância em avicultura. A duplex RT-PCR otimizada mostrou um limiar de detecção de 10-3 (101 EID50/50m L para IBV e 100.5 EID50/50m L para aMPV, respectivamente, quando da combinação dos dois vírus e 10-1 para cada um dos vírus em separado(103 EID50/50m L para IBV e 102.5 EID50/50m L para aMPV, respectivamente. O ensaio foi demonstrado como específico, sensível e aplicável à rápida detecção destes vírus em amostras clínicas.