RESUMEN Una de las dificultades que afecta la salud ocupacional de los docentes universitarios en Ecuador son los riesgos laborales. El objetivo es analizar los riesgos laborales con la finalidad de fortalecer el bienestar ocupacional desde una mirada integral. Tipificamos los riesgos laborales en ergonómicos, psicosociales, y organizacionales para la toma de decisiones. Se sugieren políticas para la prevención de riesgos, creando un ambiente laboral adecuado, que den cuenta de una labor formativa de calidad. Se utilizaron métodos teóricos y empíricos del enfoque mixto de investigación, con una aproximación fáctica realizada por docentes de la Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo, Ecuador.

ABSTRACT One of the difficulties affecting the occupational health of university teachers in Ecuador is occupational hazards. The objective is to analyze occupational risks in order to strengthen occupational wellbeing from an integral point of view. We classify occupational risks into ergonomic, psychosocial, and organizational risks for decision-making. We suggest policies for risk prevention, creating an adequate work environment, which will provide quality training. Theoretical and empirical methods of the mixed research approach were used, with a factual approach carried out by teachers of the Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo, Ecuador.

Resumen El trabajo se apoya en las pruebas individuales del monitoreo ambulatorio de la presión arterial realizado a 5,089 cubanos adultos de ambos sexos, atendidos en la consulta de hipertensión arterial del Hospital Provincial Universitario Cardiocentro Ernesto “Che” Guevara de Villa Clara, entre los años 2012 y 2016, con el fin de estimar experimentalmente sus vulnerabilidades individuales y el peligro asociado a las condiciones meteorológicas influyentes durante las pruebas, para estimar el riesgo meteoro-trópico individual aplicando la metodología para el cálculo del riesgo de desastres, utilizada en los estudios cubanos de peligro, vulnerabilidad y riesgo. Las vulnerabilidades individuales se evaluaron mediante la relación entre los factores de riesgo no modificables de cada paciente y la ocurrencia de anomalías durante el monitoreo ambulatorio. De igual forma, la ocurrencia de estas anomalías se comparó con el comportamiento del estado del tiempo existente durante las pruebas, para definir el llamado “factor de impacto biotrópico” como índice del peligro asociado a cada elemento meteorológico. El estimado del riesgo meteoro-trópico individual se obtuvo como resultado del producto de las vulnerabilidades por los peligros individuales, siendo el riesgo promedio en los hombres un 15 % mayor que en las mujeres de la muestra y con máximos individuales muy altos en algunos individuos de ambos sexos. Los resultados son relevantes para la aplicación práctica de los pronósticos biometeorológicos en el sistema de salud pública del país.

Abstract The work is based on individual tests of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring carried out on 5,089 Cuban adults of both sexes, treated in the arterial hypertension consultation of the Provincial University Hospital Cardiocenter Ernesto “Che” Guevara of Villa Clara, between 2012 and 2016, in order to experimentally estimate their individual vulnerabilities and the danger associated with the meteorological conditions present during the tests. The estimation of the individual meteor-tropic risk was done applying the methodology for calculating disaster risk, used in Cuban studies of danger, vulnerability and risk. Individual vulnerabilities were assessed by the relationship between each patient's non-modifiable risk factors and the occurrence of anomalies during the ambulatory monitoring. Likewise, the occurrence of these anomalies was compared with the behavior of the existing weather conditions during the tests, to define the so-called “biotropic impact factor” as an index of the danger associated with each meteorological element. The evaluation of the individual meteor-tropic risk was reached, as a result of the product of the vulnerabilities and the individual hazards, being the average risk in men 15% higher than in the women of the sample and with very high individual maximums in some individuals of both sexes. The results are relevant for the practical application of biometeorological forecasts in the country's public health system.

Resumen Los efectos desfavorables de las condiciones meteorológicas sobre la salud de la población cubana están aumentando en frecuencia e intensidad, debido a los impactos ya visibles del cambio climático sobre Cuba, problema que demanda realizar la evaluación de la vulnerabilidad de la población cubana ante los peligros regionales asociados a los procesos meteorológicos que influyen sobre el país. Se realiza una adaptación de la metodología utilizada en Cuba para los estudios de peligro, vulnerabilidad y riesgo, aplicada en este caso a la estimación del riesgo meteoro-trópico, a partir de establecer la línea base de la mortalidad general diaria en exceso para el período 2001-2020, como indicador de la vulnerabilidad de las poblaciones residentes en las mitades occidental y oriental de Cuba; para después estimar el peligro asociado a los procesos sinópticos de escala global y regional que influyen sobre esas mismas porciones del territorio. Se demuestra que existe una relación bien definida entre la mortalidad en exceso y los peligros analizados, lo cual permitió estimar satisfactoriamente la magnitud del riesgo meteoro-trópico diario y llegar a un modelo estadístico que facilita su pronóstico a corto plazo. Se comprueba la génesis meteoro-trópica de los días con mayor mortalidad en exceso, tanto en invierno como en verano, demostrando el relevante papel que tienen algunos procesos y condiciones meteorológicas sobre la salud de la población cubana, hecho que justifica la necesidad de su pronóstico y mitigación.

Abstract The unfavorable effects of meteorological conditions on the health of the Cuban population are increasing in frequency and intensity, due to the already visible impacts of climate change on Cuba, a problem that demands an evaluation of the vulnerability of the Cuban population to regional dangers. Associated with the meteorological processes that influence the country. An adaptation of the methodology used in Cuba for studies of danger, vulnerability and risk is carried out, applied in this case to the estimation of meteor-tropic risk, based on establishing the baseline of the general daily excess mortality for the period. 2001-2020, as an indicator of the vulnerability of the populations residing in the western and eastern halves of Cuba; to then estimate the danger associated with global and regional synoptic processes that influence those same portions of the territory. It is demonstrated that there is a well-defined relationship between excess mortality and the hazards analyzed, which allowed us to satisfactorily estimate the magnitude of the daily meteor-tropic risk and arrive at a statistical model that facilitates its short-term forecast. The meteor-tropic genesis of the days with the highest excess mortality is verified, both in winter and summer, demonstrating the relevant role that some meteorological processes and conditions have on the health of the Cuban population, a fact that justifies the need for its forecast and mitigation.

Resumen Introducción: La presencia de infecciones secundarias en pacientes críticos y la resistencia a los antibióticos suelen ser factores determinantes en la evolución clínica de estos pacientes. Objetivo: Describir los patógenos aislados en cultivos de sangre y de secreciones traqueales en pacientes de la UCI con COVID-19 y evaluar la relación entre la presencia de infecciones secundarias y la mortalidad a 60 días. Métodos: Estudio de cohorte analítico retrospectivo realizado en 273 adultos ingresados a la UCI con COVID-19 de la Subred Integrada de Servicios de Salud del Sur - Hospital El Tunal, Bogotá, Colombia entre abril y diciembre de 2020. Se obtuvieron los datos de los registros de cultivos en sangre y en secreciones de la tráquea. Se llevó a cabo un análisis bivariado mediante un modelo de riesgos proporcionales o regresión de Cox para evaluar la relación entre el desarrollo de infecciones secundarias y la mortalidad a 60 días. Resultados: Se reportó al menos un cultivo en sangre positivo en 96/511 (18.8%). De los 214 cultivos de sangre realizados dentro de las 48 horas siguientes al ingreso a la UCI, 7,7% resultaron positivos. Se aislaron en total 127 gérmenes en los cultivos en sangre, en su mayoría bacterias gramnegativas (61,4%) - seguido de hongos (25,2%). Adicionalmente, 39.5% fueron multirresistentes, siendo la resistencia los carbapenémicos el patrón de resistencia a los antibióticos más frecuente (33,3% de todos los aislados de bacterias gramnegativas). Finalmente, la presencia de infecciones secundarias en esta cohorte no se asoció con mortalidad a 60 días (HR: 1,012, IC 95%: 0,721-1,420; p= 0,946). Conclusiones: A pesar de que la prevalencia de super infecciones fue moderadamente alta, la prevalencia de coinfección fue baja. Las bacterias gramnegativas fueron las predominantes y casi un tercio de los gérmenes eran multirresistentes.

Abstract Introduction: The presence of secondary infections in critically ill patients and antibiotic resistance are often determining factors in the clinical evolution of these patients. Objective: To describe the pathogens isolated in blood cultures and tracheal secretion cultures in ICU patients with COVID-19 and to evaluate the association between the presence of secondary infections and 60-day mortality. Methods: Retrospective analytical cohort study conducted in 273 adults admitted to the ICU with COVID-19 at the Subred Integrada de Servicios de Salud del Sur - Hospital El Tunal, Bogotá, Colombia between April and December 2020. Data from records of blood or tracheal secretion cultures were collected. A bivariate analysis was performed using a Cox proportional-hazards regression model to assess the association between the development of secondary infections and 60-day mortality. Results: At least one positive blood culture was reported in 96/511 patients (18.8%). Of the 214 blood cultures performed within 48 hours after ICU admission, 7.7% were positive. A total of 127 germs were isolated from blood cultures - mostly gram-negative bacteria (61.4%) - followed by fungi (25.2%). Additionally, 39.5% were multidrug-resistant, and carbapenem resistance was the most common antibiotic resistance pattern (33.3% of all gram-negative bacteria isolates). Finally, in this cohort, the presence of secondary infections was not associated with 60-day mortality (HR: 1.012, 95%CI: 0.7211.420; p= 0.946). Conclusions: Although the prevalence of superinfection was moderately high, the prevalence of coinfection was low. Gram-negative bacteria were predominant, and almost one third of the germs were multidrug-resistant.

Abstract Climate change crisis is a global concern for the humanity and for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). One of the solutions proposed is family planning which plays a dual role. Firstly, family planning must ensure gender equality (SDG 5) and good health (SDG 3) that “strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries” (SDG 13.1). Secondly, it would make it possible to contribute to the reduction in population growth, which will turn lead to a reduction in the levels of greenhouse gas emissions. This article analyzes this dual role to determine whether family planning could be an ethical solution for climate change and for contributing to sustainable development for a better future of humanity.

Resumen La crisis del cambio climático es una preocupación mundial para la humanidad y para la consecución de los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS). Una de las soluciones propuestas es la planificación familiar, que desempeña un doble papel. En primer lugar, la planificación familiar debe garantizar la igualdad de género (ODS 5) y una buena salud (ODS 3) que “refuerce la resiliencia y la capacidad de adaptación a los riesgos relacionados con el clima y los desastres naturales en todos los países” (ODS 13.1). En segundo lugar, permitiría contribuir a la reducción del crecimiento demográfico, lo que a su vez conllevaría una reducción de los niveles de emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero. Este artículo analiza esta doble función para determinar si la planificación familiar podría ser una solución ética para el cambio climático y para contribuir al desarrollo sostenible para un futuro mejor de la humanidad.

Abstract Introduction. Bariatric and metabolic surgery (BMS) has shown its efficacy in achieving short-term weight loss. However, there is limited evidence regarding long-term clinical and metabolic outcomes. Methods. Retrospective longitudinal study with patients who underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) interventions in Bogotá, Colombia, between 2013 and 2021. Weight change, comorbidity control, and metabolic outcomes were collected at the onset, 3-, 6-, and 12-month post-surgery, and annually up to the fifth year. Comorbidity control rates were assessed using the Kaplan-Meier test. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to evaluate the effect of covariates on weight regain. Results. Of 1092 patients with BMS (71.4% SG and 28.6% RYGB), 67% were women, with a median age of 48 years, BMI 35.5 kg/m2. After five years of follow-up, the control rate in diabetes mellitus was 65.5%, in hypertension 56.6%, and dyslipidemia 43.6%. The weight regain rate was 28% with no differences between SG vs RYGB (p=0.482). The mean time to nadir weight was 14 months. Age at the time of BMS was the best independent predictor of weight regain (HR=1.02, 95%CI: 1.01-1.04), but with a modest clinical effect. Conclusion. BMS is safe and shows long-term benefits in weight loss and control of comorbidities in Colombian population.

Resumen Introducción. La cirugía bariátrica y metabólica (CBM) es efectiva en lograr pérdida de peso a corto plazo. Sin embargo, existe evidencia limitada en desenlaces clínicos y metabólicos a largo plazo. Métodos. Estudio longitudinal retrospectivo con pacientes llevados a baipás gástrico en Y de Roux (BGYR) o gastrectomía en manga (MG) por laparoscopia en Bogotá, D.C., Colombia, entre 2013 y 2021. El cambio de peso, control de comorbilidades y resultados metabólicos se recopilaron al inicio del estudio, 3, 6 y 12 meses después de cirugía, y anualmente hasta el quinto año. Las tasas de control de comorbilidades se evaluaron mediante la prueba Kaplan-Meier. Se utilizó un modelo de riesgos proporcionales de Cox para evaluar el efecto de covariables en la reganancia de peso. Resultados. De 1092 pacientes con CBM (71,4 % MG y 28,6 % BGYR), 67 % eran mujeres, con mediana de edad 48 años e índice de masa corporal de 35,5 Kg/m2. Después de cinco años de seguimiento, la tasa de control en diabetes mellitus fue 65,5 %, en hipertensión 56,6 % y en dislipidemia 43,6 %. La tasa de reganancia de peso fue 28 %, sin diferencias entre MG vs BGYR (p=0,482). El tiempo promedio hasta peso nadir fue 14 meses. La edad al momento de CBM fue el mejor predictor independiente de reganancia (HR=1,02, IC95% 1,01-1,04), pero con efecto clínico modesto. Conclusión. La CBM es segura y muestra beneficios a largo plazo en la pérdida de peso y control de comorbilidades en población colombiana.

Resumen La carretera Puyo-Tena es propensa a deslizamientos de tierra debido a la geodinámica, geomorfología y materiales geológicos de la zona (afloramientos y estratos inestables). En los últimos años, este problema ha provocado de forma persistente la inutilización parcial o total de la carretera en numerosas ocasiones. El objetivo de la investigación fue generar un modelo cartográfico de susceptibilidad a deslizamientos a partir de variables como la pendiente, las formaciones geológicas, la cobertura y uso de la tierra, así como las distancias a fallas, carretera y ríos. El grado de incidencia de deslizamientos se estimó como la combinación lineal de las variables ponderadas mediante el proceso de jerarquía analítica. La importancia de este método semicuantitativo radica en su capacidad para desagregar un problema de decisión complejo en un modelo de decisión más simple y coherente. El modelo cartográfico resultante se reclasificó en cinco categorías de susceptibilidad: muy baja, baja, moderada, alta y muy alta. Los resultados mostraron que 17 km de los 80 km de la carretera Puyo-Tena tienen una alta probabilidad a deslizamientos, lo que equivale a 21,25% de la carretera. Además, dentro de este porcentaje, se determinó que existen quince regiones con alta probabilidad de deslizamientos debido a su ubicación en zonas con fuertes pendientes, litología porosa y permeable, gran cantidad de ríos y suelos agrícolas. Para la verificación del modelo se utilizó el área bajo la curva (en inglés AUC) de la característica operativa del receptor (en inglés ROC). Los resultados de la verificación mostraron que el modelo cartográfico para el área de estudio tiene un valor de precisión de 83,7%. El modelo cartográfico de susceptibilidad a deslizamientos permitirá tomar las decisiones pertinentes para mitigar eventos potenciales que puedan poner en peligro a transportistas, bienes materiales y residentes de la zona.

Abstract The Puyo-Tena roadway is prone to landslides due to the geodynamics, geomorphology, and geological materials of the area (unstable outcrops and strata). In recent years, this problem has persistently caused the road to be partially or completely disabled on numerous occasions. The objective of the research was to generate a cartographic model of landslides susceptibility based on variables such as slope, geological formations, land cover and land use, as well as distances to faults, road, and rivers. The degree of landslides incidence was estimated as the linear combination of the weighted variables using the analytic hierarchy process. The importance of this semi-quantitative method lies in its ability to break down a complex decision problem into a simpler and more coherent decision model. The resulting cartographic model was classified into five susceptibility categories: very low, low, moderate, high, and very high. The results showed that 17 km out of the 80 km of the Puyo-Tena roadway have a high probability of landslides, which is equivalent to 21.25% of the road. Furthermore, within this percentage, it was determined that there are fifteen regions with a high probability of landslides due to their location in areas with steep slopes, porous and permeable lithology, a large number of rivers, and agricultural soils. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) was used for model verification. The verification results showed that the cartographic model for the study area has an accuracy value of 83.7%. The cartographic model of landslide susceptibility will enable relevant decisions to be made to mitigate potential hazards that may endanger transporters, material goods, and residents of the area.

INTRODUCTION: Dental assistants play a vital role in delivering four-handed dentistry and oral healthcare to patients. However, they face many risks and hazards at work that could negatively affect their physical and emotional health. These may range from mental health problems to chemical exposure, infectious diseases, and ergonomic issues OBJECTIVES: To explore the understanding of dental assisting students regarding potential occupational risks and hazards in the dental environment and to determine the awareness of perceived occupational risks and hazards using a self-administered questionnaire METHODS: This cross-sectional, descriptive study used qualitative and quantitative research methods to explore the perspectives of student dental assistants regarding occupational health risks and hazards for data collection through open-ended and short answers RESULTS: Seventy-six dental assistants participated in this study, yielding a (85.3%) response rate. The findings indicated that only 17% (n=13) of the participants had not received an orientation on occupational risks and hazards, and 59% (n=45) were unsure. Eighty-two percent (n=62) had been taught correct posture and sitting methods. Regarding psychological well-being, 53% (n=40) agreed to being stressed, over 34% (n=26) indicated that the university offered various mental health services, and 86.6% (n=66%) expressed satisfaction with the current training CONCLUSION: This study highlights the critical need for comprehensive education, better ergonomics at work, and more robust preventative measures to protect dental assistants' health and well-being

SUMMARY Introduction: The food sector includes a reasonable number of workers involved. Empirically, there is no doubt that this sector has work areas that by their nature involve a series of risk factors that can affect the health. Knowing and cataloguing these, in order to be able to draw up a preventive plan, is essential for the health of the worker (and the entity that employs him). This article aims to gather the main occupational risk factors/occupational risks, occupational diseases and recommended protective measures at kitchen workers. Methodology: This is a Scoping Review, initiated through a search carried out in the Medline database (via Pubmed), carried out during the month of November 2023, encompassing articles (in Portuguese and English), with the keywords "kitchen worker" and "occupational" in the title, with no time limit. The risk analysis tool "Online interactive risk assessment" of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work was used as a complement. Content: The main risk factors found are exposure to chemical agents (products used to clean facilities and/or fruit and vegetables, or by-products from cooking); ergonomic risks (maintained/forced postures; repetitive movements, manual handling of loads); accidents (falls at the same level or at different levels; handling of equipment/utensils that increase the risk of burns, cuts and/or amputations); contact with electrical equipment, noise, heat stress and psychosocial risks. The main occupational diseases refer to musculoskeletal, psychosocial or dermatological conditions. Each unit should, however, be evaluated individually, according to its intrinsic characteristics. Conclusions: The safety and health of kitchen workers are issues that deserve constant attention from employers, regulators and society at large. This article explored some of the main occupational hazards and listed the need for effective preventive measures. Reducing these risks is not only an ethical and legal responsibility, but a smart strategy to improve operational efficiency and quality of services, avoiding accidents, minimizing absenteeism, but also improving the productivity of companies. It would be pertinent to develop investigations that assess the national reality

RESUMO Introdução: O setor da alimentação coletiva inclui um número razoável de trabalhadores envolvidos. Empiricamente, não existem dúvidas de que este setor possui áreas de trabalho que pela sua natureza envolvem uma série de fatores de risco que podem afetar a saúde dos trabalhadores. Conhecer e catalogar os mesmos, de modo a poder elaborar um plano preventivo, é essencial para a saúde do trabalhador (e da entidade que o emprega). Este artigo objetiva reunir os principais fatores de risco/riscos ocupacionais, doenças profissionais associadas e medidas de proteção recomendadas. Metodologia: Trata-se de umaScoping Review, iniciada através de uma pesquisa realizada nas base de dados Medline (via Pubmed), realizada durante o mês de novembro de 2023, englobando artigos (em português e inglês), com as palavras-chave “kitchen worker” e “occupational” no título, sem limite temporal. Utilizou-se como complemento a ferramenta de análise de riscos “Online interactive risk assessment”, da Agência Europeia para a Segurança e Saúde no Trabalho. Conteúdo: Os principais fatores de risco encontrados são exposição a agentes químicos (produtos na higienização das instalações e/ou hortofrutícolas, ou subprodutos derivados da confeção); riscos ergonómicos (posturas mantidas/ forçadas; movimentos repetitivos, manuseamento manual de cargas); riscos de acidentes (quedas ao mesmo nível ou a níveis diferentes; manuseamento de equipamentos/utensílios que aumentem o risco de queimaduras, cortes e/ou amputações); contato com equipamentos elétricos, ruído, stress térmico e riscos psicossociais. As principais doenças profissionais referem-se a condições musculoesqueléticas, psicossociais ou dermatológicas. Cada unidade deverá, no entanto, ser avaliada individualmente, mediante as suas caraterísticas intrínsecas. Conclusões: A segurança e saúde dos trabalhadores das unidades de alimentação coletiva são questões que merecem atenção constante dos Empregadores, reguladores e da sociedade em geral. Este artigo explorou alguns dos principais riscos ocupacionais e listou a necessidade de medidas preventivas eficazes. A redução destes riscos não é apenas uma responsabilidade ética e legal, mas uma estratégia inteligente para melhorar a eficiência operacional e a qualidade dos serviços, evitando acidentes, minimizando o absentismo, mas também melhorando a produtividade das empresas. Seria pertinente desenvolver investigações que avaliassem a realidade nacional.

Resumo As áreas costeiras são locais propícios para o desenvolvimento de cidades e o estabelecimento de populações vulneráveis expostas a ameaças naturais. As imagens de satélite são uma valiosa ferramenta para o estudo da cobertura do solo. Neste trabalho, foram selecionadas três áreas urbanas costeiras do Rio da Prata (Ribera de Quilmes, Punta Lara e Atalaya) com diferentes características territoriais e populacionais, para analisar a evolução das coberturas do solo, com ênfase na cobertura urbana no período de 1990 a 2020, utilizando imagens de satélite e a técnica de classificação supervisionada. Os resultados demonstraram boa separabilidade entre assinaturas espectrais, variabilidade entre locais, precisão acima de 87% e boa confiabilidade (Índice Kappa acima de 0,75) na classificação. Nas três áreas, a tendência foi o aumento da área urbana em detrimento de outras coberturas. A utilização de ferramentas de acesso livre para conhecer a evolução da cobertura do solo oferece a possibilidade de gerir territórios de forma sustentável em governos com recursos escassos.

Abstract Coastal areas are suitable sites for the development of cities and usually are occupied by vulnerable population, exposed to natural hazards. Satellite images are a valuable tool for the study of land cover. Three coastal urban areas of the Río de la Plata with different territorial and population conditions have been selected (Ribera de Quilmes, Punta Lara and Atalaya). Based on satellite images and the application of supervised classification technique, they were selected to identify and analyze the evolution of different land covers emphasizing urban coverage for the period 1990-2020. The results obtained good separability between spectral signatures, variability between sites, good precision (over 87%) and good reliability (Kappa index over 0.75) in the classification. In the three areas, the trend was an increase in urban cover to the detriment of the rest. Knowledge of land cover, and its evolution from open access images and software, allows in developing countries with limited resources to manage their territories in a sustainable manner.

Resumen Las áreas costeras son sitios favorables para el desarrollo de ciudades y el asentamiento de población vulnerable expuesta a amenazas naturales. Las imágenes satelitales constituyen una valiosa herramienta para el estudio de la cobertura del suelo. En este trabajo se han seleccionado tres áreas urbanas costeras al Río de la Plata (Ribera de Quilmes, Punta Lara y Atalaya) con distintas características territoriales y poblacionales, para analizar la evolución de las coberturas del suelo, con énfasis en la cobertura urbana en el período 1990-2020, utilizando imágenes satelitales y la técnica de clasificación supervisada. Los resultados demostraron buena separabilidad entre firmas espectrales, variabilidad entre sitios, precisión mayor al 87% y buena confiabilidad (Índice Kappa mayor a 0,75) en la clasificación. En las tres áreas, la tendencia fue el incremento del área urbana en desmedro de otras coberturas. La utilización de herramientas de acceso libre para conocer la evolución de la cobertura del suelo, brindan la posibilidad de gestionar territorios de manera sustentable en gobiernos con escasos recursos.

Abstract Currently, Costa Rica does not count with a rigorous methodology that considers the proper variables required to assess the structural health condition of bridges. Some institutions use different criteria in order to assign a rating to the evaluation of a structure and this generates different results when prioritizing interventions. The prioritization of road infrastructure projects is key to invest resources in the most efficient way possible. In this context, this article presents a proposal that seeks to standardize an index for the structural health condition of bridges, which allows prioritizing and allocating resources objectively. For this index, the evaluation of the structural condition of critical elements is used, as well as risk matrices related to seismic and hydrometeorological hazards. As a result, the design of this index involves the analysis of a large number of variables through technical and statistical criteria.

Resumen Actualmente, Costa Rica no cuenta con una metodología rigurosa que considere las variables requeridas para calificar la condición de la salud estructural de un puente o estructura de paso. Algunas instituciones utilizan criterios diversos para asignar una calificación a la evaluación de una estructura y esto genera que se obtengan resultados diferentes al priorizar intervenciones. La priorización de los proyectos de infraestructura vial es clave para invertir los recursos de la forma más eficiente posible. En este contexto, este artículo presenta una propuesta que busca estandarizar un índice de la condición de la salud estructural de un puente, que permita priorizar y asignar recursos de forma objetiva. Para este índice se utiliza la evaluación de la condición estructural de elementos críticos, así como matrices de riesgo relacionadas con amenazas sísmicas e hidrometeorológicas. Como resultado, el diseño de este índice involucra el análisis de una gran cantidad de variables mediante criterios técnicos y estadísticos.

ABSTRACT The objective of this work is to compare the quality of life of precarious quarry and brick-kiln workers in the municipality of San Luis Potosí and artisanal mercury mining in Camargo, Querétaro. Field work and non-participatory observation were carried out. During the field research period in 2019-2020, a questionnaire was applied to a total of 118 workers. The data were organized and processed with the Excel program (Microsoft Office 365) and analyzed within the framework of environmental anthropology and everyday-life approaches. In both contexts, it was found that the workers present a high level of marginalization, chronic diseases, physical inactivity, alcohol and tobacco consumption, in addition to the lack of protective equipment. According to the activity performed, they suffer from different occupational hazards. Furthermore, they are not employed under a labor contract, and their families also participate in the work. The identified situations of occupational precariousness presented various diagnosed chronic degenerative comorbidities, lack of protective equipment to perform their activities, occupational hazards and little access to health services. Therefore, multidisciplinary efforts and approaches are required to assess, address and draw attention to their conditions, in order to prevent, intervene and transform labor precariousness into decent work. Rev Arg Antrop Biol 26 (1), 2024. https://doi.org/10.24215/18536387e072

RESUMEN Este objetivo de este trabajo es comparar la calidad de vida de los trabajos precarios de cantera y ladrillo del municipio de San Luis Potosí y minería artesanal de mercurio en Camargo, Querétaro. Se realizó trabajo de campo y observación no participativa. Durante el periodo de investigación de campo en 2019-2020 se aplicó un cuestionario a un total de 118 trabajadores. Los datos fueron organizados y tratados con el programa Excel (versión Microsoft Office 365) y analizados dentro del marco de los enfoques de la antropología ambiental y de la vida cotidiana. En ambos contextos, se encontró que los trabajadores presentan un nivel alto de marginación, enfermedades crónicas, inactividad física, consumo de alcohol y tabaco, además de que no cuentan con equipo de protección, de acuerdo con la ocupación, tienen diferentes riesgos laborales. Además, no cuentan con contrato laboral. Aunado a ello, la familia participa en las labores. Los escenarios de precariedad laboral identificados presentaron algunas comorbilidades crónico-degenerativas diagnosticadas, nulo equipo de protección para realizar sus actividades, riesgos laborales y poco acceso a servicios de salud. Por lo tanto, requieren de esfuerzos y abordajes multidisciplinarios que permitan evaluar, atender y visibilizar sus condiciones con la finalidad de prevenir, intervenir y transformar la precariedad laboral en trabajo decente. Rev Arg Antrop Biol 26 (1), 2024. https://doi.org/10.24215/18536387e072

Abstract Under the turbulent environment of the 21st century, climate change emerges as a menacing and urgent crisis, especially in urban poverty-stricken areas, where its impacts are most acutely felt. Despite the importance of understanding public perceptions to foster effective climate change resilience, there still exists a notable gap in nuanced scholarship within the informal settlements of South Africa. This study employs a mixed-method approach to explore how cognitive, emotional, motivational and cultural factors affect these communities' resilience or vulnerability to climate-related hazards. The prevailing consensus in the literature suggests a general underestimation of climate change risks among residents. However, this paper contends that innovative, resource-constrained strategies observed in these communities suggest a significant degree of agency and preparedness to confront these challenges. This study sheds light on the interplay between individual actions, social networks, information channels, cultural practices, and power dynamics in shaping climate change perceptions. It recommends integrating local, costeffective adaptation measures into wider policy frameworks. In conclusion, the study emphasises the importance of educating informal settlement residents, harnessing community participation and utilising local adaptation knowledge and sustainable development techniques to forge a resilient and equitable future for the inhabitants of Buffalo City Municipality.

Resumo Num cenário marcado pela turbulência do século XXI, as alterações climáticas surgem como uma crise iminente e urgente, particularmente acentuada nas áreas urbanas afetadas pela pobreza, onde os seus impactos se manifestam de forma mais severa. Apesar da importância de compreender as perceções públicas para promover uma resiliência eficaz às alterações climáticas, há ainda uma lacuna considerável no que toca a investigação diferenciada nos aglomerados populacionais informais da África do Sul. Este estudo emprega uma abordagem de métodos mistos para explorar como os fatores cognitivos, emocionais, motivacionais e culturais influenciam a resiliência ou vulnerabilidade dessas comunidades aos riscos associados às alterações climáticas. O consenso predominante na literatura sugere uma tendência geral de subestimação dos riscos das alterações climáticas entre os residentes. No entanto, este artigo defende que as estratégias inovadoras e com recursos limitados observados nessas comunidades sugerem um grau significativo de capacidade de ação e preparação para enfrentar esses desafios. Este estudo revela a interação entre iniciativas individuais, redes sociais, canais de informação, práticas culturais e dinâmicas de poder na formação das perceções das alterações climáticas. É recomendada a integração de medidas de adaptação locais e económicas em enquadramentos políticos mais amplos. Em conclusão, o estudo sublinha a importância de educar os residentes de aglomerados populacionais informais, de promover a participação da comunidade e de utilizar os conhecimentos locais de adaptação e as técnicas de desenvolvimento sustentável para construir um futuro resiliente e equitativo para os habitantes do município de Buffalo City.

Resumen Antecedentes: El cáncer de mama (CM) representa un problema de salud pública entre las mujeres. A pesar de la incidencia y las disparidades en el estatus económico, el estado de Guerrero en México demuestra una tasa de mortalidad por cáncer de mama más baja. Objetivo: Este estudio investiga las características epidemiológicas, las modalidades de tratamiento y los resultados de supervivencia de los pacientes con CM en Guerrero y compara estos hallazgos con datos nacionales. Método: Se analizó una cohorte retrospectiva de 923 pacientes con CM atendidos en el Instituto Estatal de Cancerología Dr. Arturo Beltrán Ortega, del 2010 al 2018. Para determinar los factores pronósticos que afectan la supervivencia, empleamos el análisis de supervivencia general y el modelo de riesgos proporcionales de Cox. Resultados: La tasa de supervivencia a 5 años fue del 73% (IC 95%: 69-76). Los pacientes con BC ≤ 40 años mostraron tasas de supervivencia más bajas y un riesgo de mortalidad 1.5 veces mayor. Al comparar el subtipo triple negativo con los tumores HER2 positivos, no se observaron diferencias significativas en la reducción del riesgo de muerte. Conclusión: A pesar de una mayor prevalencia de subtipos moleculares agresivos en Guerrero, los pacientes comparten características clínicas y epidemiológicas con sus homólogos de otras regiones mexicanas.

Abstract Background: Breast cancer (BC) represents a public health concern among women. Despite the incidence and disparities in economic status, the state of Guerrero in Mexico demonstrates a lower BC mortality rate. Objective: This study investigates the epidemiological characteristics, treatment modalities, and survival outcomes of BC patients in Guerrero, and compares these findings with national data. Method: A retrospective cohort of 923 BC patients treated at the Instituto Estatal de Cancerología Dr. Arturo Beltrán Ortega, from 2010 to 2018 was analyzed. To determine the prognostic factors affecting survival, we employed overall survival analysis and the Cox proportional hazards model. Results: The 5-year survival rate was of 73% (CI 95%: 69-76). BC patients ≤ 40 years exhibited lower survival rates and a 1.5-fold higher risk of mortality. When comparing the triple-negative subtype to HER2-positive tumors, no significant differences in reducing the risk of death were observed. Conclusion: Despite a higher prevalence of aggressive molecular subtypes in Guerrero, patients share clinical and epidemiological features with their counterparts in other Mexican regions.

Abstract The Cluster WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) is one of the cornerstones of humanitarian action, and a key element for the promotion of health worldwide. The recent years demonstrated the pressure on this humanitarian cluster, as a result of climate change. At the same time, it is also clear that WASH actions have a potential to foster health promotion, preparedness, and resilience among communities affected by humanitarian crisis related to climate hazards. This aspect is visible in both the existing literature of the major international organisations and NGOs networks acting in this field. It is also visible in the best practices promoted in two countries looked at in the paper: Bangladesh and the United States. This comparative analysis allows us to extract conclusions that may be replicable in other national or local contexts. It contributes to a better comprehension of the links between the humanitarian indicators and actions, and the imperative of a work with communities in order to improve even more the preparedness of the health impact of climate change.