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Localization of the Porion Landmark in Orthodontics: A Comparison of the Efficiency of NEMO-Ceph 2020 Software between Inexperienced and Expert Operators

2023 , Loaiza Martinez, Daniela , Llerena-Velasquez S.A. , Gallegos J. , Ferrando R.

This study discusses the utility of the NEMO-Ceph 2020 software in localizing the cephalometric landmark known as the Porion point (Po) and the Frankfurt plane in orthodontics. It highlights the challenges in locating the Porion point due to anatomical variations and external factors. The use of radiographs as a diagnostic method is mentioned, along with the need for new tools to aid in locating the Porion landmark. The study employed a database of 179 teleradiographs from the "UCAM DENTAL"database, processed using NEMO-Ceph 2020® software. Inexperienced operators (4th and 5th-year dentistry students) and an expert operator participated. Linear measurements and angular differences were analyzed using the software. Results revealed discrepancies in the Porion point's location among operators, with mean discrepancies of 2.42 mm (X-axis) and 2.23 mm (Y-axis). The mean discrepancy between Porion points was 2.47 mm, and with the Frankfurt point was 2.44 mm. No statistically significant correlation existed between discrepancies in the X and Y axes. The study concluded that there was a significant difference in Porion point location between inexperienced operators and the expert, and that NEMO-Ceph 2020® software required expert operators for accurate localization of cephalometric landmarks and could not predict the point independently. © 2023 IEEE.

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Body Composition Evaluation using Bioelectrical Impedance and its Impact on Academic Performance of Nursing Students

2023 , Romero Riaño, Paola , Camaño Carball, Lilian , Yánez-Rueda H. , Buele, Jorge

In the past, nutritional assessment relied on manual measurements that did not allow for the differentiation of body composition components. With technological advancements, the introduction of bioelectrical impedance has provided a more specific approach to obtaining results. This study aims to utilize this innovative method to assess the connection between body composition and academic performance in nursing students. The research focused on a representative sample of 89 participants, utilizing bioelectrical impedance to measure the primary bioelements of the human body. Strong and significant correlations were observed between height and weight, height and muscle mass, and muscle mass and weight. A moderate correlation was found between weight and fat, as well as significant weak correlations between age and fat, and between fat and body mass index. Additionally, a significant weak negative correlation was observed between height and fat. Of the participants, 42.2% of women and 48% of men were classified as overweight. However, the statistical analysis did not reveal significant correlations between academic performance and variables such as weight, muscle mass, fat, and body mass index. Based on this information, it was concluded that most students had a body mass index within the normal range, and no direct relationship between body composition and academic performance was identified. Continuous monitoring of overweight students using this technology is recommended to promote healthy nutritional practices. © 2023 IEEE.

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Psycho-pedagogical Recovery Tool Based on the User-Centered Design

2020 , Gordón, Jacqueline , Caicedo, Andrés , Salcedo, D. , Ron, G. , Quintero, G. , Cajas, N. , Narváez, S.

This paper refers to the construction of an interactive tool for digital learning environments. The application—Tití app‖ aims to reduce the quantity of errors in reading and writing processes of schoolchildren by solving tasks based on—Toro y Cervera test de análisis de lectura y escritura‖ in a contextualized and motivational digital scenario. The process of acquisition of reading and writing skills is complex, the elements of teaching play a decisive role in it, therefore it becomes significant to rethink the learning environment in which new technologies including mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets are employed as learning enhancement resources. For the development of the app, a user-centered methodology was utilized in order to improve the user’s experience in a different learning process. In addition, a review of the efforts made in the development of applications focused on the reduction of reading and writing errors with statistically significant results was conducted in order to ensure that—Tití app‖ will become a useful psycho-pedagogical resource with an interactive and attractive design. © Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2020.

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Methodological strategy for asynchronous learning mathematical operations with real numbers

2022 , Espinosa-Pinos C.A. , Nunez-Torres M.G. , Jordan-Buenano N. , Jordan-Buenano C.

Consolidating the skills to use concepts, properties, and procedures based on algorithms or heuristics and analysis to solve challenging situations is of great importance for students in their learning. This article aims to propose a methodological strategy based on adaptive learning to facilitate the solution of combined operations with real numbers in eighth-grade students of basic general education. The mixed method uses questionnaires applied to students and teachers to collect data. The diagnosis determines that students do not master the basic competencies to work basic operations with real numbers. The teachers agree with the need to apply innovative strategies that promote learning in mathematics. It is concluded that it is imperative to update the planning of content with activities that help motivate students to learn mathematics, considering that not everyone learns at the same pace. © 2022 IEEE.

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Validation of a Scale of Labor Skills in Crisis Situations

2023 , Guerra Guerra, Paulina

All organizations can have a crisis time, in recent years, some factors such as the pandemic, political and economic problems have shown that workers need to develop skills to manage new dynamics and create employment strategies. "The organization must have a good performance that is oriented towards the vision, mission, goals and objectives of the organization. For this we need qualified human resources, because good training and other supportive social spaces are needed to improve the quality of human resources"[1]. One of the key challenges for government organizations today is to deliver performance effectively and efficiently. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to validate the work skills scale in times of crisis, which can be used to find out the knowledge, skills, abilities and attitudes of employees to manage staff training in the future. Currently, only a few instruments allow measuring work skills during a crisis, this instrument measures orientation to results in different situations, building relationships, vision and foresight, decision-making, creativity, resilience, emotional intelligence, social networks in each question. This study validates the Competencies for Working in Crisis as a new psychometric tool. The scale was validated after collecting data from 401 SME (small and medium-sized enterprises) employees from different provinces in the Ecuador. It is a descriptive study, non-experimental and longitudinal. Factor structure, reliability and validity measures were also examined using SPSS-21 statistical procedure. Finally, for the analysis of internal consistency, Cronbach's Alpha coefficients were calculated with values (.78), which is considered acceptable [2]. © 2023 IEEE.

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The Impact of Health and Wellness Tourism on Tourists’ Physical, Mental, and Emotional Balance

2024 , Álvarez-Sánchez A. , Rojas-Lara G.A. , Vaca-González E.

Tourism focused on health and wellness has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, as more and more individuals seek to improve their physical, mental, and emotional health during their travels. This type of tourism fuses rest and relaxation with activities and services designed to promote the well-being of travelers. In this context, the research is based on a meticulous approach that incorporates the use of statistical techniques and data analysis. Data were collected from a sample of tourists and hotel professionals located in the coastal region of Ecuador. The variables examined covered aspects related to health and safety in health and wellness tourism destinations, as well as the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of tourists. The results highlighted the relevance of health protocols, health infrastructures, access to medical services, and other health and safety related factors in the well-being of tourists. The findings obtained have significant implications for the health and wellness tourism industry, as well as for tourism destination management. They indicate the need to adopt a new model of tourism consumption that promotes health and safety, especially valuing tourism resources in rural and sustainable areas, including nearby destinations. In addition, they highlight the importance of safety, health, and traveler satisfaction in the promotion of tourism destinations. This research provides valuable information for the tourism industry and decision-makers in developing strategies and policies related to health and wellness tourism. The results can be used to improve tourist experiences and encourage a healthier and safer approach to tourism. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2024.

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Young People with Asthma on Vacation at Aqua Park—Esmeraldas

2024 , Álvarez-Sánchez A. , Alquinga-Quinteros M.J. , González-Vega K.N.

This article focuses on providing general information about Esmeraldas, one of the twenty-four provinces that make up the Republic of Ecuador. It addresses various aspects of this region, including its gastronomy, geographic location, warm climate, and the activities that visitors can enjoy during their stay. In addition, it highlights a tourist site called “Aqua Park,” which offers an exciting option to spend a pleasant vacation in the company of friends and family. Also mentioned is an interesting aspect of Esmeraldas, its role as a medicinal forest that can be beneficial for asthmatic people. Reference is made to scientific reviews that highlight the anti-inflammatory properties of certain compounds of marine origin. These compounds have demonstrated their ability to target pathogenic molecular mechanisms similar to those involved in glucocorticoid-resistant asthma. In addition, some studies have investigated the protective effects of specific formulations containing marine-derived ingredients on the airways. Although these scientific summaries do not directly address possible side effects or associated risks, they suggest that marine-derived compounds may have therapeutic potential in reducing airway inflammation in people suffering from asthma. However, it is important to note that further research is required to fully understand the safety and efficacy of these compounds in the treatment of asthma. For young asthmatics, the need to take precautions to avoid common triggers such as tobacco smoke, pollen, and dust mites is emphasized. It is also advised to be attentive to weather conditions and to avoid exposure to the open air at times of high contamination or sudden temperature changes. Finally, a warning related to the water park is offered. Although it is presented as an exciting vacation option, it is suggested that there could be asthma triggers in the area, including those mentioned above, as well as the chemicals used for the maintenance of the tourist facilities. In summary, the article provides an overview of Esmeraldas and its attractions, as well as exploring the possibility of using marine compounds in the treatment of asthma. While this possibility is raised, the need for further research to fully understand its efficacy and safety is recognized. Emphasis is placed on the importance of taking precautions for those suffering from asthma, as they may be exposed to various triggers in different environments. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2024.