National Autonomous University of Nicaragua

About: National Autonomous University of Nicaragua is a education organization based out in Managua, Nicaragua. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Public health. The organization has 775 authors who have published 715 publications receiving 9791 citations.

Decreasing risk of hepatitis A infection in León, Nicaragua: evidence from cross-sectional and longitudinal seroepidemiology studies.

Abstract: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Nicaragua is highly endemic for hepatitis A. We aimed to provide an estimate of the change in the age-specific risk of hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection based on serological data from cross-sectional and longitudinal samples collected in Leon, Nicaragua, in 1995/96 (n = 979) and 2003 (n = 494). METHODS The observed age-specific prevalence of anti-HAV antibodies was correlated to the age-specific risk of infection by calculating the probability of freedom from infection at a specific age. RESULTS The proportion of seropositive children aged 1.5 to 6 years was 42% in 2003 compared to 67% in 1995/96. Estimated annual risk of infection for a 3-year old child was 30% (95% CI: 27.0%, 33.1%) in 1995 and 15.5% (95% CI: 12.4%, 19.0%) in 2003. There was good agreement between estimates based on cross-sectional and longitudinal data. The age-specific geometric mean of the quantified anti-HAV antibody levels assessed in 2003 was highest at age 4 and decreased steadily up to age 40. CONCLUSIONS The substantially lower risk of HAV infection in 2003 than in 1995 for young children indicates a beginning transition from high to intermediate endemicity in Leon, Nicaragua. Consecutive age-stratified serosurveys are useful to assess changes in risk of infection following public health interventions. The decreasing age-specific GMC of anti-HAV antibodies during adulthood in a country with endemic HAV indirectly suggests that ongoing HAV exposure in the community has marginal boosting effect on antibody levels once protective immunity has been established by natural infection.

Resistivity Imaging as a tool for groundwater studies at Santo Domingo, Central Nicaragua

Abstract: Electrical resistivity imaging has become a widely used technique for engineering and environmental investigations. The object of this work was to use the resistivity method to delimit weathered and quartz veins areas of the Tertiary terrain in central Nicaragua, Central America. The investigations were carried out within the framework of a multi disciplinary research and training programme funded by Sida/SAREC, with the aim of mapping groundwater systems in an area contaminated by mining activities.

What the Flip: Embracing Flipped Learning as a Mediated Approach in Teacher Education

Abstract: Given the abrupt shift to online learning when schools closed down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this chapter provides insights gained during the transition. The purpose of this chapter is to explore the use of flipped learning in teacher education courses as the courses transitioned to a virtual model. The authors discuss their participation in virtual professional learning communities (VPLCs) as well as efforts to engage students in VPLCs. This chapter offers perspectives of both instructors and students as well as insights gained while teaching in a teacher education program and while teaching at a Nicaraguan university. A primary focus within the chapter is the use of various technologies and the collaboration among colleagues in and out of the United States to instruct teachers candidates and practicing teachers from primary level through higher education programs. Practical guidance is offered to those looking to begin or further the virtual teaching and learning.

Reference spirometric values in healthy Nicaraguan male workers.

Abstract: The main objective was to derive reference equations for the FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC ratio for healthy Nicaraguan male workers without current occupational exposure to agents hazardous to the lungs. Age, height, and weight were included as independent variables in the analysis, but only age and height showed significant effects on the indices studied. A nonlinear relationship with age was observed for FVC and FEV1, with a shift in the slope at the age of 32 years. Linear, quadratic, and multiphase models were tested in order to assess the best reference equation. The multi-phase model most closely fitted the values measured. The FEV1/FVC ratio showed a significant linear negative correlation with age. A comparison between the equations derived from this material and those reported in other studies revealed substantial differences. Racial, genetic, nutritional, work and sociocultural factors could account for the differences.