A spatial case-control study on symptomatic and inapparent primary dengue infections in an endemic city in Brazil

ABSTRACT We conducted a spatial case-control study nested in a dengue incidence cohort to explore the role of the spatial and socioeconomic factors in the proportion of symptomatic (cases) and inapparent primary dengue virus infections (controls). Cohort participants were children and adolescents (2 to 16 years of age) at the beginning of the follow-up. Case definitions were, for symptomatic cases, fever plus a positive lab result for acute dengue (NS1, RT-PCR, ELISA IgM/IgG), and for inapparent infection a positive result for dengue IgG (ELISA) in subjects without symptoms and with a previously negative result at baseline. The covariates included sociodemographic factors, residential location, and socioeconomic context variables of the census tracts of residence of cases and controls. We used principal component analysis to reduce the contextual covariates, with the component values assigned to each one based on their residences. The data were modeled in a Bayesian context, considering the spatial dependence. The final sample consisted of 692 children, 274 cases and 418 controls, from the first year of follow-up (2014-2015). Being male, older age, higher educational level of the head of the family and having a larger number of rooms in the household were associated with a greater chance of presenting dengue symptomatic infection at the individual level. The contextual covariates were not associated with the outcome. Inapparent dengue infection has extensive epidemiological consequences. Relying solely on notifications of symptomatic dengue infections underestimates the number of cases, preserves a silent source of the disease, potentially spreading the virus to unaffected areas.

Immunization against covid-19 and mortality in hospitalized patients: a retrospective cohort / Imunização contra covid-19 e mortalidade em pacientes hospitalizados: coorte retrospectiva

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effectiveness of vaccines developed against covid-19 in reducing mortality in people hospitalized with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) caused by SARS-CoV-2. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort that evaluated risk factors and the effectiveness of the two-dose vaccination schedule in reducing the mortality of people hospitalized for covid-19 in the state of Paraíba from February to November 2021. The explanatory variables were vaccination status, presence of comorbidities, socioeconomic and demographic characteristics. Descriptive analyses and bivariate and multivariable logistic regression were performed. RESULTS Most hospitalizations and deaths occurred until May 2021. The percentage of patients with a complete vaccination schedule was similar across patients admitted to public and private hospitals and higher in residents of less developed municipalities. Multivariable analysis demonstrated that women (OR = 0.896; 95%CI 0.830-0.967) and people admitted to private hospitals (OR = 0.756; 95%CI 0.679-0.842) were less likely to die. Presence of any comorbidity (OR = 1.627; 95%CI 1.500-1.765) and age ≥ 80 years (OR = 7.426; 95%CI 6.309-8.741) were risk factors for death. Patients with complete vaccination schedule at the time of admission were 41.7% less likely to die (OR = 0.583; 95% CI 0.501-0.679) from covid-19 in the adjusted analysis, as compared to unvaccinated patients. CONCLUSIONS The study reveals that immunization was effective in reducing the likelihood of death from covid-19. The results suggest that greater vaccination coverage in the first half of 2021 would prevent thousands of deaths in the country.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Avaliar a efetividade das vacinas desenvolvidas contra a covid-19 na redução da mortalidade em pessoas internadas com síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SRAG) causada pelo SARS-CoV-2. MÉTODOS Trata-se de uma coorte retrospectiva que avaliou fatores de riscos e a efetividade do esquema vacinal com duas doses na redução da mortalidade de pessoas internadas por covid-19 no estado da Paraíba entre fevereiro e novembro de 2021. As variáveis explicativas foram situação vacinal, presença de comorbidades, características socioeconômicas e demográficas. Foram realizadas análises descritivas e regressão logística bivariada e multivariável. RESULTADOS A maior parte das internações e óbitos ocorreram até maio de 2021. O percentual de pacientes com esquema vacinal completo foi similar entre pacientes internados em hospitais públicos e privados e superior em residentes de municípios com menor desenvolvimento. A análise multivariável demonstrou que mulheres (OR = 0,896; IC95% 0,830-0,967) e pessoas internadas em hospitais privados (OR = 0,756; IC95% 0,679-0,842) apresentaram menor chance de morte. A presença de alguma comorbidade (OR = 1,627; IC95% 1,500-1,765) e idade ≥ 80 anos (OR = 7,426; IC95% 6,309-8,741) foram fatores de risco de óbito. Pacientes com esquema vacinal completo no momento da internação apresentaram uma chance 41,7% menor de morte (OR = 0,583; IC95% 0,501-0,679) por covid-19 na análise ajustada, quando comparados com pacientes não vacinados. CONCLUSÕES O estudo revela que a imunização foi efetiva na redução da chance de óbito por covid-19. Os resultados sugerem que uma maior cobertura vacinal no primeiro semestre de 2021 evitaria milhares de mortes no país.

Efeito dos transtornos mentais comuns na gestação e seis a nove anos pós-parto para a tentativa de suicídio em mulheres / The effect of common mental disorders on suicidal attempts by women, during pregnancy and six to nine years after birth

Resumo Há escassez de dados globais sobre as tentativas de suicídio (TS). A maior frequência de adoecimento mental coloca as mulheres em maior risco de TS. Os transtornos mentais (TM) estão em primeiro lugar na carga global de doenças em termos de anos vividos com incapacidade (AVI). Entre os problemas de saúde mental que mais acometem mulheres estão os transtornos mentais comuns (TMC). O objetivo desta pesquisa foi investigar o impacto dos TMC na gravidez e seis a nove anos após o parto para a TS em mulheres cadastradas na Estratégia de Saúde da Família no Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil. O estudo engloba duas etapas de uma coorte prospectiva. Foram incluídas 643 mulheres adultas. A prevalência de TMC na etapa I (gestação) e sua incidência na etapa III (seis a nove anos após o parto) foram, respectivamente, 19,3% e 12,6%. A incidência da TS foi de 10,9%. A análise multivariada demonstrou efeito cumulativo dos TMC para a TS: TMC só na gestação (OR 5,4; IC95% 2,2-13,3); só na terceira etapa (OR 5,8; IC95% 2,3-14,9); e em ambas (OR 6,0; IC95% 2,5-14,4). O acúmulo dos TMC em mulheres aumenta a chance de TS, sendo importante a implementação de políticas públicas para a saúde das mulheres, principalmente com histórico de doença mental, hábitos não saudáveis e que sofrem violência.

Abstract There is scarcity of global data on suicide attempts (SA). The higher frequency of mental disorders places women at a higher risk for SA. Mental disorders (MD) are ranked first in the Global Burden of Diseases (GBD) in terms of years lived with disability (YLD) and common mental disorders (CMD) affect women the most. IN this light, the present study aimed to investigate the impact of CMD during pregnancy, as well as 6 to 9 years after birth, on SA in women who were registered in the Family Health Strategy from the town of Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil. This study consisted of two stages of a prospective cohort. 643 adult women were included. The prevalence of CMD in stage I (pregnancy) and in stage III (six to nine years after birth) were, respectively, 19.3% and 12.6%. The incidence of SA was 10.9%. The multivariate analysis demonstrated a cumulative effect of CMD for SA: only during pregnancy (OR 5.4; 95%CI 2.2-13.3); only in the third stage (OR 5.8; 95%CI 2.3-14.9); and in both stages (OR 6.0; 95%CI 2.5-14.4). The increase of CMD in women increases the chances of SA, hence the importance of implementing public policies for women's health, especially for those with a history of mental disorders and unhealthy habits, and those who suffer violence.

Association between sleep duration and latency, nocturnal awakenings, and body mass index among infants / Associação entre duração e latência do sono, despertares noturnos e índice de massa corporal de lactentes

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the association between sleep duration, nocturnal awakenings, and sleep latency with body mass index (BMI) at six and 12 months of age. Methods: 179 children from a birth cohort were enrolled. At six and 12 months of age, anthropometric data were obtained using standardized techniques and infants' mothers answered the Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire for sleep data. The association of BMI with the independent variables (sleep duration, latency, and nocturnal awakenings) was assessed by linear regression models. Analyses were adjusted for potential confounders and a p-value<0.05 was adopted to define statistical significance. Results: For each additional hour of sleep duration, BMI was reduced by 0.15 kg/m² (95% confidence interval [CI] -0.28; -0.01; p=0.03) and each additional minute of sleep latency increased BMI by 0.01 kg/m² (95%CI -0.00; 0.03; p=0.02). These associations were independent of gestational age, child sex, birth weight, duration of exclusive breastfeeding, smoking during pregnancy, and mother's BMI, education, and marital status. Nocturnal awakenings showed no association with the outcome. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that sleep duration and sleep latency time are associated with BMI in the first year of life. Insights into the influence of sleep early in life on weight status may be helpful to complement future nutritional recommendations and prevent and treat obesity.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar a associação entre duração do sono, despertares noturnos e latência do sono com o índice de massa corporal (IMC) aos seis e 12 meses de idade. Métodos: foram incluídas 179 crianças de uma coorte de nascimentos. Aos seis e 12 meses de idade, dados antropométricos foram obtidos por meio de técnicas padronizadas e as mães dos lactentes responderam ao Brief Infant Sleep Questionnaire para dados do sono. A associação do IMC com as variáveis independentes (duração do sono, latência e despertares noturnos) foi avaliada por modelos de regressão linear. As análises foram ajustadas para potenciais fatores de confusão e o p-valor<0,05 foi adotado para definir a significância estatística. Resultados: Para cada hora adicional de duração do sono, o IMC foi reduzido em 0,15 kg/m² (intervalo de confiança [IC]95% -0,28; -0,01; p=0,03) e cada minuto adicional no tempo de latência resultou em aumento de 0,01 kg/m² (IC95% -0,00; 0,03; p=0,02) no IMC. Essas associações foram independentes da idade gestacional, sexo da criança, peso ao nascer, duração do aleitamento materno exclusivo, tabagismo durante a gravidez e IMC, escolaridade e estado civil da mãe. Os despertares noturnos não apresentaram associação com o desfecho. Conclusões: Nossos achados sugerem que a duração e a latência do sono estão associadas ao IMC no primeiro ano de vida. Informações sobre a influência do sono no início da vida sobre o status do peso podem ser úteis para complementar futuras recomendações nutricionais e prevenir e tratar a obesidade.

Sociodemographic inequalities in the incidence of COVID-19 in National Household Sample Survey cohort, Brazil, 2020 / Desigualdades sociodemográficas na incidência de COVID-19 em coorte da Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílios, Brasil, 2020

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify the association between sociodemographic factors and the time until the occurrence of new cases of COVID-19 and positive tests for SARS-CoV-2 in Brazil, during the period from May to November 2020, based on a cohort of Brazilians participating in the COVID-19 National Household Sample Survey. Methods: A concurrent and closed cohort was created using monthly data from the PNAD COVID-19, carried out via telephone survey. A new case was defined based on the report of the occurrence of a flu-like syndrome, associated with loss of smell or taste; and positivity was defined based on the report of a positive test, among those who reported having been tested. Cox regression models were applied to verify associations. The analyzes took into account sample weighting, calibrated for age, gender and education distribution. Results: The cumulative incidence of cases in the overall fixed cohort was 2.4%, while that of positive tests in the fixed tested cohort was 27.1%. Higher incidences were observed in the North region, in females, in residents of urban areas and in individuals with black skin color. New positive tests occurred more frequently in individuals with less education and healthcare workers. Conclusion: The importance of prospective national surveys is highlighted, contributing to detailed analyzes of social inequalities in reports focused on public health policies.

RESUMO Objetivo: Verificar a associação entre fatores sociodemográficos e o tempo até a ocorrência de novos casos de COVID-19 e de testes positivos para Sars-CoV-2 no Brasil, durante o período de maio a novembro de 2020, com base em uma coorte dos brasileiros participantes da Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílios COVID-19. Métodos: Foi constituída uma coorte concorrente e fechada utilizando dados mensais da Pnad COVID-19, realizada por inquérito telefônico. Um caso novo foi definido com base no relato da ocorrência de um quadro de síndrome gripal, associado à perda de olfato ou paladar; e a positividade foi definida com base no relato de um teste positivo, entre os que referiram ter sido testados. Foram aplicados modelos de regressão de Cox para verificar associações, considerando a ponderação amostral, calibrada para a distribuição etária, de sexos e de escolaridade. Resultados: A incidência acumulada de casos na coorte fixa geral foi de 2,4%, enquanto a de testes positivos na coorte fixa testada foi de 27,1%. Verificou-se maiores riscos nas regiões Centro-Oeste, Norte e Nordeste, entre mulheres, residentes em áreas urbanas, pessoas com escolaridade até o ensino médio, com a cor da pele declarada como preta e trabalhadores da área da saúde. Indivíduos com menor escolaridade e profissionais de saúde apresentaram maior frequência de novos testes positivos. Novos testes positivos ocorreram com maior frequência em indivíduos com menor escolaridade e trabalhadores da área da saúde. Conclusão: Foram observados riscos desiguais entre os estratos populacionais comparados. Destaca-se a importância da realização de inquéritos nacionais prospectivos na investigação de iniquidades em saúde.

Cancer mortality in workers at risk of occupational exposure to ionizing radiation in a company in the nuclear sector headquarters in São Paulo / Mortalidade por câncer em trabalhadores com risco de exposição ocupacional à radiação ionizante em empresa do setor nuclear sediada em São Paulo

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare cancer mortality among workers exposed to gamma and X radiation and the general population of the city of São Paulo, as well as that of the subgroup monitored with those not monitored for gamma and X radiation in a work unit with ionizing radiation based in the city of São Paulo. Methods: Between 2016 and 2021, a retrospective open cohort study was carried out with workers who were employed from 08/31/1956 to 12/31/2016 based on data collected at the company and in official institutions. Standardized mortality ratios (SMR) were calculated by sex, age and calendar period of cancers grouped according to type, risk factor and organ system in two analyses: in the external analysis, the mortality of the study population was compared with that of the general population of the city of São Paulo; In the internal analysis, the mortality of the monitored subgroup was compared with that of the subgroup not monitored for gamma and X radiation. Results: The external mortality analysis showed SMR=0.224 (95%CI 0.208-0.240) and the healthy worker effect, while the internal mortality analysis showed SMR=0.685 (95%CI 0.618-0.758). Conclusion: This study showed lower cancer mortality among exposed workers when compared to mortality in the general population and the healthy worker effect. Among workers monitored for gamma and X radiation, cancer mortality was lower when compared to those not monitored.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar a mortalidade por câncer entre trabalhadores expostos à radiação gama e X e a população geral do município de São Paulo, bem como a do subgrupo monitorado com o não monitorado para radiação gama e X em uma unidade de trabalho sediada no município de São Paulo. Métodos: Entre 2016 e 2021 foi realizado estudo de coorte aberta retrospectiva com trabalhadores que tiveram vínculo empregatício desde 31/08/1956 até 31/12/2016 a partir de dados coletados na empresa e em instituições oficiais. Foram calculadas as razões de mortalidade padronizadas (RMP) por sexo, idade e período calendário de cânceres agrupados segundo o tipo, o fator de risco e o sistema orgânico em duas análises: na análise externa, comparou-se a mortalidade da população de estudo com a da população geral do município de São Paulo; já na análise interna, comparou-se a mortalidade do subgrupo monitorado com a do subgrupo não monitorado para radiação gama e X. Resultados: A análise externa de mortalidade mostrou RMP=0,224 (IC95% 0,208-0,240) e o efeito do trabalhador sadio, enquanto a análise interna de mortalidade mostrou RMP = 0,685 (IC95% 0,618-0,758). Conclusão: Este estudo mostrou menor mortalidade por câncer entre os trabalhadores expostos quando comparada com a mortalidade da população geral e o efeito do trabalhador sadio. Entre os trabalhadores monitorados para radiação gama e X, a mortalidade por câncer foi menor quando comparada com a dos não monitorados.

Assessing a cut-off point for the diagnosis of abnormal uterine bleeding using the Menstrual Bleeding Questionnaire (MBQ): a validation and cultural translation study with Brazilian women

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is a common condition, and the Menstrual Bleeding Questionnaire (MBQ) is used for its assessment. OBJECTIVES: To translate, assess the cut-off point for diagnosis, and explore psychometric properties of the MBQ for use in Brazilian Portuguese. DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective cohort study including 200 women (100 with and 100 without AUB) at a tertiary referral center. METHODS: MBQ translation involved a pilot-testing phase, instrument adjustment, data collection, and back-translation. Cut-off point was obtained using receiver operating curve analysis. Menstrual patterns, impact on quality of life due to AUB, internal consistency, test-retest, responsiveness, and discriminant validity were assessed. For construct validity, the Pictorial Blood Assessment Chart (PBAC) and World Health Organization Quality of Life - abbreviated version (WHOQOL-BREF) were applied. RESULTS: Women with AUB were older, had higher body mass indices, and had a worse quality of life during menstruation. Regarding the MBQ's psychometric variables, Cronbach's alpha coefficient was > 0.70 in all analyses, high intraclass correlation coefficient was found in both groups; no ceiling and floor effects were observed, and construct validity was demonstrated (correlation between MBQ score, PBAC score, and clinical menstrual cycle data). No difference between MBQ and PBAC scores were perceived after the test-retest. Significant differences were found between MBQ and PBAC scores before and after treatment. An MBQ score ≥ 24 was associated with a high probability of AUB; accuracy of 98%. CONCLUSION: The MBQ is a reliable questionnaire for Brazilian women. The cut-off ≥ 24 shows high accuracy to discriminate AUB.

Randomized Controlled Trial Design Based on Patient Cohorts： Methods and Applications of Trials Within Cohorts / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Trials within cohorts （TwiCs） are design methods derived from randomized controlled trials （RCTS）. They have been widely used in chronic disease areas such as tumors and cardiovascular diseases. The basis of the TwiCs design is a prospective cohort of specific diseases. When RCTS need to be implemented， some patients meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria are randomly sampled from the cohort to receive "trial interventions"， while the remaining patients in the cohort who meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria continue to receive conventional treatment as control groups. By comparing the efficacy differences between the intervention measures of the trial group and the control group， the efficacy of intervention measures was evaluated. Within the cohort， the same process could be repeated to carry out multiple RCTS， so as to evaluate different intervention measures or compare the efficacy of different doses or timing of interventions. Compared with classical RCTS， TwiCs make it easier to recruit patients from the cohort and have higher external validity， providing a new research paradigm for improving the efficiency and applicability of RCTS in clinical practice. However， TwiCs may also face the challenge of poor compliance of patients in the cohort. Researchers need to take effective measures to control these patients in the design and operation of TwiCs. This article focused on the methodological key points during the implementation of TwiCs， including multi-stage informed consent （patients are informed of consent at three stages： entering the cohort， entering the trial group， and after the trial）， randomization procedures （only random sampling of patients from the cohort to receive "trial interventions"）， sample size calculation， and statistical analysis methods. The article also compared the differences between TwiCs and traditional RCTS and illustrated TwiCs research design and analysis with examples， so as to provide new research ideas and methods for clinical researchers.

The Effect of Modified Shugan Dingji Decoction （疏肝定悸汤） on the Occurrence of Endpoint Events in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation of Liver Constraint and Qi Stagnation： A Retrospective Cohort Study / 中医杂志

ObjectiveTo retrospectively analyze the effect of modified Shugan Dingji Decoction （疏肝定悸汤） on the occurrence of endpoint events in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation of liver constraint and qi stagnation. MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted using the electronic medical record database of Longhua Hospital affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine to screen and include patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation of liver constraint and qi stagnation from January 1st， 2018， to December 31th， 2021. The included patients were divided into an exposure group and a non-exposure group， each consisting of 100 cases， based on whether they received modified Shugan Dingji Decoction. General information of the patients including age， gender， body mass index， duration of illness and comorbidities， medication history， cardiac structure and function indicators such as left atrial diameter， left ventricular end-diastolic diameter， stroke volume and ejection fraction， and the occurrence of endpoint events assessed through 24-hour dynamic electrocardiography or electrocardiogram to determine the recurrence of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation were collected. Kaplan-Meier （K-M） curves and Log-Rank tests were used to conduct survival analysis on the occurrence of endpoint events in the two groups of patients. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to analyze the impact of various factors on entry into endpoint events. Additionally， a safety assessment was performed by comparing liver and kidney function indicators before and after treatment. ResultsIn the non-exposure group， a total of 49 cases （49.0%） experienced endpoint events， while in the exposure group， there were 26 cases （26.0%）. The Log-rank test indicated significant difference between the two groups （χ2=11.211， P=0.001）. Univariate Cox regression analysis showed that age， duration of illness， hypertension， diabetes， chronic heart failure， left atrial diameter， stroke volume， and the use of modified Shugan Dingji Decoction may be the influencing factors for the occurrence of endpoint events in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation of liver constraint and qi stagnation （P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that the risk of endpoint events in the exposure group was significantly lower than that in the non-exposure group （P＜0.01）. Patients with a duration of illness ＞12 months had a significantly higher risk of endpoint events compared to those with a duration of illness ≤12 months （P＜0.01）. Patients without concomitant hypertension had a lower risk of endpoint events compared to those with hypertension （P＜0.05）. Patients with left atrial diameter ＞40 mm had significantly higher risk of endpoint events than those with left atrial diameter ≤40 mm （P＜0.01）. There was no statistically significant difference in liver and kidney function indicators between the two groups before and after treatment （P＞0.05）. ConclusionThe use of modified Shugan Dingji Decoction is a protective factor for patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation of liver constraint and qi stagnation， which can help to reduce the recurrence and progression of atrial fibrillation. Long duration of illness， concomitant hypertension， and enlarged left atrial diameter are risk factors for patients to experience endpoint events.

Risk factors for executive function impairment in adolescence: an analysis of data from the 2004 Pelotas Birth Cohort study

Objective: To investigate risk factors associated with impaired attention-related executive functions (EFs) at age 11 and working memory at age 15. Methods: Data from participants of the population-based 2004 Pelotas Birth Cohort at ages 11 (n=3,582) and 15 (n=1,950) were analyzed. The study measured attentional control, cognitive flexibility, and selective attention using the Test of Everyday Attention for Children (TEA-Ch). Spatial working memory was assessed by the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB). Logistic regression was employed to explore the relationship between perinatal and childhood exposures and EF impairment. Results: Low maternal education had a significant negative impact on EFs. At age 11, it was associated with decreased attentional control (OR = 3.04; 95%CI 2.09-4.43), and at age 15, it was linked to impaired spatial working memory (OR = 2.21; 95%CI 1.58-3.09). Additional risk factors included low household income, black or brown maternal skin color, high parity, prematurity, low birth weight, and multiple siblings. Breastfeeding, regardless of duration, was found to be a protective factor against impaired cognitive flexibility (OR = 0.38; 95%CI 0.22-0.65). Conclusion: This study underscores the lasting impact of perinatal exposures on EF development. Policies that mitigate the negative effects of risk factors and promote EF development, especially among vulnerable populations, are needed.

Aseguramiento y control de la calidad de los datos en un estudio de cohorte en Colombia

Introducción: La calidad de los datos facilita garantizar la fiabilidad de los estudios observacionales. Objetivo: Describir el aseguramiento y el control de calidad para mantener la fiabilidad y la validez del dato en un estudio de cohorte. Métodos: Presentar el manejo de datos implementado dentro de un seguimiento de enfermos renales crónicos cuya exposición fue un programa de protección renal comparado con el tratamiento convencional y su asociación con desenlaces clínicos. Se evaluó el cambio en la frecuencia de errores después de implementar el plan y la reproducibilidad del ingreso de registros a las bases de datos. Resultados: Se documentó una disminución progresiva en los errores cometidos en la captación de datos. El valor de Kappa entre los recolectores de la información para las variables clínicas más importantes fue 0,960 para la depuración de creatinina 150 mg/dL; 0,730 para la alteración del sedimento urinario; 0,956 para la asignación de estadio al ingreso. Los coeficientes de correlación intraclase para la identificación de las cifras de presión arterial sistólica fue 0,996; para la de presión arterial diastólica 0,993 y para los niveles de creatinina sérica al diagnóstico 0,995. Discusión: La calidad de los datos comienza con el reconocimiento de los retos y dificultades que implica su responsable captación, de ahí el aporte de la estandarización de los procesos y el personal que los lleve a cabo en forma idónea. Estudios evidencian que muchos procesos de mejora surgen en el desarrollo de la investigación sin protocolos preestablecidos. Conclusión: La reducción en la proporción y el tipo de error durante el proceso de captación de datos se debe a su identificación temprana y la corrección de instructivos, del instrumento de control de diligenciamiento y de la capacitación continua del personal. El análisis mostró una buena concordancia interevaluador.

Introduction: Data quality makes it easier to ensure that observational studies are reliable. Objective: To describe assurance and quality control to maintain data reliability and validity in a cohort study. Methodology: We present the data management strategies implemented in a study that followed patients of chronic kidney disease who were in a renal protection program and compared them with those undergoing conventional treatment to observe its association with clinical outcomes. We assessed the changes in error frequency after implementing the plan along with the reproducibility of the strategies for entering records into the databases. Results: We documented a progressive decrease of data collection errors. The Kappa values among data collectors for the most important variables were: 0.960 for creatinine clearance 150 mg/dl; 0.730 for urinary sediment alteration and 0.956 for stage allocation upon admission. The intraclass correlation coefficient for the identification of systolic blood pressure was 0.996; for diastolic blood pressure, the coefficient was 0.993 and for serum creatinine levels at diagnosis, the value was 0.995. Discussion: Data quality begins with the recognition of the challenges and difficulties involved in responsible data collection, hence the contribution of standardized processes and personnel to carry them out in a suitable manner. Studies show that many improvement processes arise in the development of research without pre-established protocols. Conclusion: The reduction in error ratio and type during the data collection process are the result of the early identification of erroneously entered or missing data, the correction of the guidelines for completing forms as well as of the instruments for detecting errors and continuous training of the staff. The analysis showed good inter-rater reliability.

Respuesta inmune humoral por exposición a antígenos de SARS-CoV-2 en adultos con riesgo cardiovascular: The COmmunity Cohort / SARS-CoV-2 humoral immune response in patients with cardiovascular risk factors: The COmmunity Cohort Study

A partir de las recomendaciones emanadas del Comité Asesor en Vacunas y el Programa Nacional de Inmunizaciones, Chile implementó precozmente un proceso de vacunación de la población con vacunas provenientes de diferentes laboratorios. El estudio de los niveles de anticuerpos neutralizantes en diferentes subgrupos poblacionales, contribuye al establecimiento de los correlatos de protección frente a infección por SARS-CoV-2. En 2022 y 2023 establecimos una cohorte comunitaria de 914 adultos con factores de riesgo cardiovascular. En esta cohorte estamos midiendo la respuesta inmune humoral frente a exposición a antígenos de SARS-CoV-2, ya sea por vacunas o por infección, así como la incidencia de COVID-19 y otros eventos adversos. Esta cohorte, que llamamos, nos está entregando valiosa información sobre los niveles de anticuerpos neutralizantes en estas personas y su grado de protección frente al COVID-19.

Based on the recommendations of the Vaccine Advisory Committee and the National Immunization Program, Chile implemented an early vaccination process of the population with vaccines from different laboratories. The study of neutralizing antibody levels in different population subgroups contributes to the establishment of correlates of protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection. In 2022 and 2023 we set up a community cohort of 914 adults with cardiovascular risk factors. In this cohort we are measuring the humoral immune response to exposure to SARS-CoV-2 antigens, either by vaccines or infection, as well as the incidence of COVID-19 and other adverse events. This cohort, which we call The COmmunity Cohort, is providing us with valuable information on the levels of neutralizing antibodies in these individuals and their degree of protection against COVID-19.

Changes and predictors of adolescent emotion regulation, self-esteem, and locus of control during the COVID-19 pandemic: 2004 Pelotas Birth Cohort

Objectives: There is growing interest in examining the impacts of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on adolescent socioemotional development. This study aimed to examine changes in adolescent emotion regulation (ER), self-esteem (SE), and locus of control (LoC) from before to during the pandemic in a Brazilian birth cohort, and to investigate the variables associated with changes in those socioemotional competences. Methods: 1,949 adolescents from the 2004 Pelotas Birth Cohort were assessed before (T1, November 2019 to March 2020) and during (T2, August to December 2021) the COVID-19 pandemic (mean ages [SD] = 15.69 [0.19] and 17.41 [0.26], respectively). Adolescents' socioemotional competences were assessed, including ER, SE, and LoC. Sociodemographic, pre-pandemic, and pandemic-related correlates were examined as predictors of change. Multivariate latent change score models were used in the analyses. Results: There were significant mean increases in adolescents' ER and SE (mean ER = 1.918, p < 0.001; mean SE = 1.561, p = 0.001) and a significant mean decrease (towards internalization) in LoC levels (MLoC = -0.497, p < 0.01) during the pandemic. Factors that predicted a lower competency increase included family conflicts, harsh parenting, and maternal depressive symptoms during the pandemic. Conclusion: Despite the stress imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the adolescents of this cohort showed positive development in their socioemotional competences. Family-related factors emerged as important predictors of adolescent socioemotional adjustment during the study period.

Comparación de la mortalidad en pacientes en quimioterapia o inmunoterapia durante y antes de la pandemia de COVID-19. Estudio multicéntrico de cohortes emparejadas en Argentina / Comparison of mortality in patients on chemotherapy or immunotherapy during and before COVID-19 pandemic. Multicenter matched cohort study in Argentina

RESUMEN Objetivos. Comparar la mortalidad por todas las causas de pacientes oncológicos no vacunados que recibieron quimioterapia o inmunoterapia durante la pandemia, con aquellos tratados antes de la pandemia. Materiales y métodos. Realizamos un estudio de cohortes en cuatro hospitales terciarios en Argentina. Pacientes ambulatorios con una neoplasia sólida de cualquier estadio en tratamiento citotóxico o inmune intravenoso fueron elegibles. La cohorte pandémica se enroló durante la fase inicial del brote y se comparó con una cohorte de un período anterior a la pandemia utilizando emparejamiento por puntuación de propensión (PSM, por sus siglas en inglés). Los sujetos se emparejaron por edad, sexo, seguro de salud, factores de riesgo para complicaciones graves por COVID-19, estado funcional, tipo de cáncer y tratamiento, línea de tratamiento e índice de masa corporal. La mortalidad por todas las causas se estimó en ambas cohortes después de seis meses de seguimiento. Resultados. 169 pacientes fueron reclutados entre abril y agosto de 2020 para la cohorte pandémica y 377 para la cohorte prepandémica en el mismo período de 2019, 168 pacientes fueron emparejados. Luego de la PSM, la mortalidad por todas las causas fue del 17,9% en la cohorte pandémica y del 18,5% en la cohorte prepandémica, Riesgo Relativo: 0,97 (intervalo de confianza al 95 %: 0,61-1,52; p=0,888). En la cohorte pandémica, 30/168 pacientes fallecieron, ninguno por infección por COVID-19. Conclusiones. No hemos observado un aumento de mortalidad en pacientes ambulatorios no vacunados en tratamiento oncológico endovenoso activo durante la pandemia por COVID-19.

ABSTRACT Objectives. To compare all-cause mortality of unvaccinated oncology patients who received chemotherapy or immunotherapy during the pandemic with those treated before the pandemic. Materials and methods. We conducted a cohort study in four tertiary hospitals in Argentina. Outpatients with a solid neoplasm of any stage under-going cytotoxic or intravenous immunotherapy were eligible. The pandemic cohort was enrolled during the initial phase of the outbreak and compared with a pre-pandemic cohort using propensity score matching (PSM). Subjects were matched for age, sex, health insurance, risk factors for severe COVID-19 complications, performance status, cancer type and treatment, line of treatment, and body mass index. All-cause mortality was estimated for both cohorts after 6 months of follow-up. Results. A total of 169 patients were recruited between April and August 2020 for the pandemic cohort and 377 for the pre-pandemic cohort in the same months of 2019; 168 patients were matched. After PSM, all-cause mortality was 17.9% in the pandemic cohort and 18.5% in the pre-pandemic cohort; the Relative Risk was 0.97 (95 % confidence interval: 0.61-1.52; p=0.888). In the pandemic cohort, 30/168 patients died, but none from COVID-19. Conclusions. Our findings show that the mortality rate of unvaccinated ambulatory patients on active intravenous oncology treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic did not increase.

Racial discrimination predicts the increase in body weight and BMI in Black individuals from ELSA-Brasil cohort / Discriminação racial prediz o aumento do peso corporal e do IMC em indivíduos pretos da coorte ELSA-Brasil

Abstract We investigated whether racial discrimination accelerates the weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) gain in Blacks and Browns participants of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil) in four years of follow-up. We compared body weight and BMI between the 1st (2008-2010) and 2nd visit (2012-2014) of 5,983 Blacks and Browns participants. Exposure to racial discrimination and covariates (age, sex, education, and research center) were obtained at the 1st visit. Linear mixed effects models stratified by race/skin color were used. Report of racial discrimination was more frequent among Blacks (32.1%) than Browns (6.3%). During the follow-up period, Blacks and Browns gained an average of 1.4kg and 1.2kg, respectively. This increase was greater among those who reported discrimination when compared to those who did not, both in Blacks (2.1kg vs.1.0kg, p < 0.001) and Browns (1.9kg vs. 1.1kg, p < 0.05). The results of the interaction between racial discrimination and time showed that Blacks, but not Browns, who reported racial discrimination had greater weight and BMI gains between visits. Our results suggest that reducing racial discrimination would contribute to prevent and/or control obesity increase in the country.

Resumo Investigou-se se a discriminação racial acelera o ganho de peso corporal e o Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC) em pretos e pardos participantes do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (ELSA-Brasil) em quatro anos de seguimento. Comparou-se o peso corporal e o IMC entre a 1ª (2008-2010) e a 2ª visita (2012-2014) de 5.983 participantes pretos e pardos. A exposição à discriminação racial e às covariáveis ​​(idade, sexo, escolaridade e centro de pesquisa) foram obtidas na 1ª visita. Foram utilizados modelos lineares de efeitos mistos estratificados por raça/cor da pele. O relato de discriminação racial foi mais frequente entre pretos (32,1%) do que em pardos (6,3%). Durante o período de acompanhamento, pretos e pardos ganharam uma média de 1,4kg e 1,2kg, respectivamente. Esse aumento foi maior entre os que relataram discriminação, quando comparados aos que não relataram, tanto em pretos (2,1 kg vs. 1,0 kg, p < 0,001) quanto em pardos (1,9kg vs. 1,1kg, p < 0,05). Após ajustes, os pretos, mas não os pardos, que relataram discriminação racial apresentaram maiores ganhos de peso e IMC entre as visitas. Nossos resultados sugerem que a redução da discriminação racial pode contribuir para prevenir e/ou controlar o aumento da obesidade no país.

Incidence of cardioembolic stroke related to atrial fibrillation in Joinville, Brazil / Incidência de acidente vascular encefálico relacionado à fibrilaçao atrial em Joinville, Brasil

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an important cause of cardioembolic stroke, and population aging has increased its prevalence. Objective To evaluate the incidence of cardioembolic stroke caused by AF in the city of Joinville, Brazil, as well as previous diagnoses and use of medication. Methods Between 2017 and 2020 we extracted data from the population-based Joinville Stroke Registry. Demographic characteristics, diagnosis of AF, and patterns of medication use were collected, and the Trial of ORG 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST) system was used to classify the etiology. Results There were 3,303 cases of ischemic stroke, 593 of which were cardioembolic, and 360 had AF. Of the patients with AF, 258 (71.6%) had a previous diagnosis of the disease, and 102 (28.3%) were newly diagnosed after the stroke. Among patients with a previously-diagnosed AF, 170 (47.2%) were using anticoagulants, and 88 (24.4%) were using other medications. Conclusion During the analyzed period, ischemic stroke caused by AF was a significant burden on the population of Joinville, and a considerable number of patients had undiagnosed or untreated AF.

Resumo Antecedentes A fibrilação atrial (FA) é uma importante causa de acidente vascular cebebral (AVC) cardioembólico, e o envelhecimento populacional aumentou a sua prevalência. Objetivo Avaliar a incidência de AVC cardioembólico causado por FA em Joinville, além dos diagnósticos prévios e do uso de medicamentos. Métodos Entre 2017 e 2020, foram extraídos dados do registro de base populacional de AVC de Joinville. Características demográficas, diagnóstico de FA e padrões de uso de medicamentos foram coletados, e o sistema Trial of ORG 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST) foi utilizado para classificar a etiologia. Resultados Houve 3.303 casos de AVC isquêmico, sendo 593 cardioembólicos e 360 com FA. Dos pacientes com FA, 258 (71,6%) tinham diagnóstico prévio da doença, e 102 (28,3%) foram recém-diagnosticados após o AVC. Entre os pacientes com FA previamente diagnosticada, 170 (47,2%) estavam em uso de anticoagulante, e 88 (24,4%), em uso de outra medicação. Conclusão Durante o período analisado, o AVC isquêmico causado por FA foi um ônus significativo para a população de Joinville, e um número considerável de pacientes apresentava FA não diagnosticada ou não tratada.

Methodology for using the Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes-MAPS in the city of São Paulo / Metodologia de utilização do Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes-MAPS na cidade de São Paulo

The Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes-Global (MAPS Global) is an international instru-ment that aims to characterize the variability of pedestrian environments related to physical activity at the microscale level, being a reliable tool that allows comparisons between locations with different contexts. In this regard, the objective of the present study is to describe the methodological process adopted in the Health Survey of São Paulo or Inquérito de Saúde de São Paulo (ISA) in portu-guese ­ Physical Activity and Environment survey for the microscale environment assessment with the MAPS-Global instrument. The use of the method in São Paulo city involved several steps and adaptations relevant to the context of the study, such as: meetings with the group responsible for the validation of the method in Brazil, training of researchers for data collection, review of sections and questions and instrument hosting on Google forms, georeferencing of households and preparation of routes, training and certification of evaluators, and data collection procedures. The environment audit presented challenges, even though it was an exclusively online process, 25 months were required for all the stages development since the audit involved a considerable sample of 1,434 subjects, an increased evaluation coverage in cross-segment sections, and a team of seven evaluators. For future data collection it is suggested to consider the time available for auditing, the size of the team for the selected sample, as well as the possibility of adapting the instrument, such as the inclusion or removal of items according to the local context or reality of the study

O Microscale Audit of Pedestrian Streetscapes-Global (MAPS-Global) é um instrumento internacional que visa caracterizar a variabilidade de ambientes de pedestres relacionados à atividade física ao nível de microescala, sendo uma ferramenta confiável que permite comparações entre locais com diferentes contextos. Neste sentido, o objetivo do presente estudo é descrever o processo metodológico adotado na pesquisa Inquérito de Saúde de São Paulo (ISA) - Atividade Física e Ambiente para a avaliação da microescala do ambiente com o instrumento MAPS-Global. A utilização do método na cidade de São Paulo envolveu diversas etapas e adaptações relevantes para o contexto do estudo, inicialmente foram realizadas reuniões com o grupo responsável por validar o método no Brasil, treinamento dos pesquisadores para coletas de dados, revisão dos blocos e questões, hospedagem do instrumento no Google forms, georreferenciamento dos domicílios, elaboração das rotas, treinamento e certificação dos avaliadores e procedimentos de coletas de dados. A auditagem do ambiente apresentou desafios, mesmo se tratando de um processo exclusivamente online, foram necessários 25 meses para o desenvolvimento de todas as etapas do estudo, pois a avaliação envolveu 1.434 sujeitos, aumento da cobertura da avaliação nas seções dos segmentos e cruzamentos e uma equipe de sete avaliadores. Sugere-se para coletas futuras que seja observado o tempo disponível para auditagem, o tamanho da equipe para a amostra selecionada, bem como a possibilidade realizar adaptações no instrumento como a inclusão ou retirada de itens conforme contexto ou realidade local do estudo

Adesão dos enfermeiros à avaliação de risco de lesão por pressão com escala munro / Nurses' adherence to the munro scale pressure injury risk assessment / Adherencia de los enfermeros a la evaluación del riesgo de lesión por presión según la escala munro

RESUMO: Objetivo: medir a taxa de adesão ao registro eletrônico da escala Munro no perioperatório. Método: estudo de coorte retrospectivo baseado na análise de prontuários no ano de 2022, em hospital privado, filantrópico de grande porte no município de São Paulo -BR. Os dados de preenchimento foram extraídos em um relatório em Excel e analisados quanto ao preenchimento da escala. Resultados: 22.743 registros de escala Munro foram analisados, correspondendo a 11.892 prontuários eletrônicos. A taxa de adesão foi de 98,45% na fase pré-operatória, 61,73% na intraoperatória e 90,14% na pós-operatória, sendo a taxa média de 83,44%. As falhas de registro estavam relacionadas à ausência ou preenchimento parcial de itens da escala e execução da fase intra ou pós-operatória sem avaliação da fase anterior. Conclusão: este estudo contribui para a prática profissional, mostrando a necessidade de intervenções educativas e melhorias de processos no intraoperatório para aumentar a adesão à avaliação de risco.

ABSTRACT Objective: To measure the rate of adherence to the electronic recording of the Munro scale in the perioperative period. Method: Retrospective cohort study based on the analysis of medical records in 2022 in a large private philanthropic hospital in the city of São Paulo -BR. The completion data was extracted into an Excel report and analyzed for compliance with the scale. Results: 22,743 Munro scale records were analyzed, corresponding to 11,892 electronic medical records. The adherence rate was 98.45% in the preoperative phase, 61.73% in the intraoperative phase, and 90.14% in the postoperative phase, with an average rate of 83.44%. Failures to record were related to the absence or partial completion of items on the scale and carrying out the intraor post-operative phase without evaluating the previous phase. Conclusion: This study contributes to professional practice by showing the need for educational interventions and improvements in intraoperative processes to increase adherence to risk assessment.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Medir la tasa de adherencia al registro electrónico de la escala Munro en el periodo perioperatorio. Método: Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo basado en el análisis de historias clínicas en el año 2022, en un gran hospital privado filantrópico de la ciudad de São Paulo -BR. Los datos de cumplimentación se extrajeron en un informe de Excel y se analizaron en función de si se había cumplimentado la escala. Resultados: Se analizaron 22.743 registros de la escala Munro, correspondientes a 11.892 historias clínicas electrónicas. La tasa de adherencia fue del 98,45% en la fase preoperatoria, del 61,73% en la intraoperatoria y del 90,14% en la postoperatoria, con una tasa media del 83,44%. Los fallos en el registro estaban relacionados con la ausencia o cumplimentación parcial de los ítems de la escala y con la realización de la fase intra o postoperatoria sin evaluar la fase anterior. Conclusión: Este estudio contribuye a la práctica profesional al mostrar la necesidad de intervenciones educativas y mejoras en los procesos intraoperatorios para aumentar el cumplimiento de la evaluación de riesgos.

Prática de atividade física e desigualdades em idosos antes e após a COVID-19 / Physical activity and inequalities in older adults before and after COVID-19

O objetivo do estudo foi verificar modificações na prevalência de atividade física (AF) e desigual-dades em idosos acompanhados antes e após o período de distanciamento social causado pela CO-VID-19. Trata-se de estudo prospectivo conduzido na zona urbana da cidade de Pelotas-Rio Grande do Sul, onde idosos foram acompanhados no ano de 2019/20 e 2021/22. A prevalência de AF foi avaliada através do IPAQ nos domínios do lazer e deslocamento avaliados de forma conjunta. Foram classificados como ativos fisicamente aqueles que realizavam ≥ 150 min/sem. As covariáveis/estra-tificadores avaliadas foram sexo, idade, cor da pele, classe econômica, escolaridade e morbidades. As desigualdades simples foram avaliadas através das diferenças e das razões da prevalência de AF e as desigualdades complexas através do índice de desigualdade (SII) e o índice de concentração (CIX). Os resultados indicaram que houve redução da prevalência de AF de 2019/20 para 2021/22 e que essas modificações ocorreram em todos os grupos populacionais, variando em termos de magnitude de declínio. O SII mostrou aumento da desigualdade entre os mais pobres em comparação aos mais ricos e redução da desigualdade em relação à idade, escolaridade e morbidades. Concluiu-se que a redução da AF ocorreu em todos os grupos populacionais. Em termos de desigualdades, houve aumento em termos de classe econômica e, nos casos de redução da desigualdade, tal mudança foi em virtude da diminuição de AF entre as categorias que eram mais ativas, sendo necessário políticas de saúde para resgatar níveis adequados de AF na população estudada

This study aimed to verify the modification in the physical activity prevalence (PA) and possible inequalities in older individuals monitored before and after social distancing due to COVID-19. This is a prospective study conducted in the urban area of Pelotas-Rio Grande do Sul, where the elderly was followed up in 2019/20 and 2021/22. The prevalence of PA was assessed using the IPAQ in the domain of leisure time and commuting evaluated together. Older people who performed ≥150 min/week were classified as physically active. The covariates/stratifiers assessed were sex, age, skin color, economic class, schooling, and morbidity. Simple inequalities were assessed through differences and ratios for the prevalence of PA and complex ine-qualities through the inequality index (SII) and the concentration index (CIX). The results indicated that there was a reduction in the prevalence of PA among the participants from 2019/20 to 2021/22 and that these changes occurred regardless of population characteristics. The SII showed an increase in PA inequality among the poorest compared to the richest individuals and a reduction in inequalities about age, education, and morbidities. It is concluded that the reduction in PA occurred similarly regardless of the covariates/stratifiers evaluated, that there was an increase in inequality in PA among the less economically favored, and that the reduction in inequality occurred especially from the reduction in PA, requiring health policies to rescue adequate levels of PA in the studied population

Development and validation of the clinical report form for nodular thyroid pathologies

Abstract Objectives: The aim of this study is to develop and validate a novel clinical report form in the format of a structured interview to enable the characterization of the Portuguese population of the Baixo Vouga region with different subtypes of nodular thyroid pathologies (NTyPs). Materials and methods: A structured interview was developed and to the best of our knowledge, this is the first structured interview built and validated for that purpose in Portugal. Results: This structured interview enables the identification of possible correlations between each subtype of nodular lesions and sociodemographic data, consumption habits and lifestyle, endocrine history, and family predisposition. Conclusion: The novel structured interview will simultaneously, enable a detailed characterization of the group of patients with nodular thyroid lesions and will support future metabolomic studies.