Behind the Headset: Predictive Accuracy of Patient-Reported Outcome Measures for Voice Symptoms in Call Centers

Objective: This study examines factors predicting self-reported voice symptoms in call center workers. Methods: Multivariate analysis and predictive modeling assess personal, work-related, acoustic, and behavioral factors. Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves are employed. Results: Age and sleep patterns impacted voice quality and effort, while workplace factors influenced symptom perception. Unhealthy vocal behaviors related to tense voice and increased effort, while hydration was protective. Voice acoustics showed diagnostic potential, supported by ROC data. These findings emphasize voice symptom complexity in call center professionals, necessitating comprehensive assessment. Limitations: This study recognizes its limitations, including a moderate-sized convenience sample and reliance on PROM metrics. Future research should incorporate more objective measures in addition to self-reports and acoustic analysis. Value: This research provides novel insights into the interplay of personal, occupational, and voice-related factors in developing voice symptoms among call center workers. Predictive modeling enhances risk assessment and understanding of individual susceptibility to voice disorders. Conclusion: Results show associations between various factors and self-reported voice symptoms. Protective factors include sleeping more than six hours and consistent hydration, whereas risk factors include working conditions, such as location and behaviors like smoking. Diagnostic models indicate good accuracy for some voice symptom PROMs, emphasizing the need for comprehensive models considering work factors, vocal behaviors, and acoustic parameters to understand voice issues complexity.

Objetivo: Este estudio examina los factores que predicen los síntomas de voz en los trabajadores de call centers. Métodos: Se utilizan análisis multivariados y modelos predictivos para evaluar factores personales, laborales, acústicos y de comportamiento. Se emplean Modelos Lineales Generalizados (GLM) y curvas ROC. Resultados: La edad y los patrones de sueño afectaron la calidad vocal y el esfuerzo, mientras que los factores laborales influyeron en la percepción de síntomas. Los comportamientos vocales no saludables se relacionaron con voz tensa y mayor esfuerzo, mientras que la hidratación fue protectora. Los parámetros acústicos de voz mostraron potencial diagnóstico respaldado por datos de ROC. Los hallazgos subrayan complejidad de síntomas vocales en profesionales de centros de llamadas, requiriendo una evaluación integral. Limitaciones: Este estudio reconoce sus limitaciones, que incluyen una muestra de conveniencia de tamaño moderado y la dependencia de medidas PROMs. Futuras investigaciones deberían incorporar medidas objetivas, además de los autorreportes y análisis acústico. Importancia: Esta investigación aporta nuevos conocimientos sobre factores personales, laborales y síntomas de voz en trabajadores de call centers. El modelado predictivo mejora la evaluación de riesgos y la comprensión de la susceptibilidad individual a trastornos de la voz. Conclusión: Los resultados muestran asociaciones entre diversos factores y los síntomas vocales reportados. Los factores de protección incluyen dormir más de seis horas y una hidratación constante; los factores de riesgo incluyen las condiciones de trabajo, como la ubicación y comportamientos como fumar. Los modelos de diagnóstico indican una buena precisión para algunas PROMs de síntomas de la voz, lo que subraya la necesidad de modelos integrales que tengan en cuenta los factores laborales, los comportamientos vocales y los parámetros acústicos para comprender la complejidad de los problemas de la voz.

Factores predictivos de rotura de aneurismas intracraneales

Introducción: Un aneurisma intracraneal roto provoca una hemorragia subaracnoidea. La enfermedad presenta una alta mortalidad y morbilidad. Sin embargo, no todos se rompen. Mejorar la predicción de rotura permitirá un tratamiento quirúrgico preventivo en un grupo de pacientes y evitará una intervención quirúrgica con riesgos en otro grupo de enfermos. Es necesario identificar factores predictivos para mejorar la estratificación del riesgo de rotura y optimizar el tratamiento de los aneurismas intracraneales incidentales. Objetivo: Identificar factores predictivos de rotura de aneurismas intracraneales. Métodos: En una muestra de 152 pacientes espirituanos con aneurismas intracraneales saculares rotos (n = 138) y no rotos (n = 22) y 160 imágenes de angiografía por tomografía computarizada, se realizaron mensuraciones de los índices o factores morfológicos, los cuales se combinaron mediante análisis de regresión logística con variables demográficas y clínicas. Resultados: El grupo de edad con mayor frecuencia de presentación de aneurismas fue el de mayor de 65 años. La muestra estuvo representada, en su gran mayoría, por el sexo femenino. Se identificaron tres factores clínicos y cuatro factores morfológicos estadísticamente significativos, asociados con la rotura. El índice de no esfericidad (p = 0,002 y el sexo femenino (p = 0,02) fueron los de mayor significación estadística. Conclusiones: Se detectaron siete factores predictivos de rotura de aneurismas intracraneales estadísticamente significativos, de los cuales el índice de no esfericidad resultó el de mayor significación.

Introduction: A ruptured intracranial aneurysm causes a subarachnoid hemorrhage. The disease has high mortality and morbidity. However, not all of them break. Improving the rupture prediction will allow preventive surgical treatment in a group of patients and it will avoid risky surgical intervention in another group of patients. It is necessary to identify predictive factors to improve rupture risk stratification and to optimize treatment of incidental intracranial aneurysms. Objective: To identify rupture predictive factors for intracranial aneurysms. Methods: Measurements of the morphological indices or factors were performed in a sample of 152 patients from Sancti Spiritus with ruptured (n = 138) and unruptured (n = 22) saccular intracranial aneurysms and 160 computed tomography angiography images. They were combined using logistic regression analysis with demographic and clinical variables. Results: The age group with the highest frequency of aneurysm presentation was older than 65. The sample was represented, in its vast majority, by the female sex. Three clinical factors and four statistically significant morphological factors associated with rupture were identified. The non-sphericity index (p = 0.002) and the female sex (p = 0.02) were the most statistically significant. Conclusions: Seven statistically significant predictors of intracranial aneurysm rupture were detected, the non-sphericity index being the most significant.

Early Results of Type I Tympanoplasty in Underprivileged Nepalese Children and Factors Influencing the Surgical Outcomes

Abstract Introduction Type I Tympanoplasty is a common ear surgery performed in Nepalese children, but no studies have been published about the success rate of the procedure and the factors affecting surgical outcomes. Objectives To find out the surgical outcome of type I tympanoplasty and to evaluate the factors affecting the success of the surgery in Nepalese children. Methods This is a retrospective study conducted by analyzing the medical records of a five-year period. Children aged 8-16 years who underwent type I tympanoplasty were included in the study. Surgical pro-forma and records of pre and post-operative pure tone audiometry were documented. Outcome of the surgery was considered a success in terms of graft uptake and hearing improvement six months after surgery. Results Out of 629 children who underwent type I tympanoplasty, anatomical success was observed in 93.32% (n = 587) and functional success in 76% (n = 478). Factors such as age, site and size of the perforation, status of the middle ear and contralateral ear, surgical approach, and the graft used were not the predictors of the surgical outcome. Conclusions The surgical outcome of type I tympanoplasty in Nepalese children was good. Although surgical outcome was better with older children, post-aural approach, temporalis fascia, inferiorly positioned perforations, and in children with dry middle ear mucosa, none of the parameters considered in this study were found to be a significant predictive factor of the surgical outcome.

Factores predictivos de mortalidad por cardiopatía ateroesclerótica en ancianos / Predictive factors of mortality due to atherosclerotic heart disease in elderly: en

Introducción: Las enfermedades cardiovasculares constituyen la primera causa de muerte en Cuba y el mundo. Objetivo: Identificar los factores predictivos de defunciones por enfermedad cardiovascular aterosclerótica en personas de edad avanzada. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio analítico, de tipo caso-control, que incluyó a 237 pacientes fallecidos a causa de cardiopatía ateroesclerótica (casos) y 711 ancianos vivos (controles), pertenecientes a 3 áreas de salud del municipio de Santiago de Cuba, desde enero hasta diciembre de 2021. Resultados: Los factores predictivos que formaron parte del modelo fueron el tabaquismo, la dieta poco saludable, el sedentarismo, la diabetes mellitus, la enfermedad renal crónica, la fragilidad, el deterioro cognitivo y la multimorbilidad. Conclusiones: Los factores de riesgo tradicionales seleccionados en este estudio, combinados con otras condiciones potenciales, mejoraron la predicción de la mortalidad por cardiopatías en ancianos y facilitaron la orientación de las intervenciones preventivas en este grupo poblacional.

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases constitute the first death cause in Cuba and the world. Objective: To identify the predictive factors of deaths due to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in elderly people. Methods: An analytic case-control type study was carried out that included 237 dead patients due to atherosclerotic heart disease (cases) and 711 living elderly (control), belonging to 3 health areas of Santiago de Cuba municipality, from January to December, 2021. Results: The predictive factors that were part of the model were nicotine addiction, not very healthy diet, physical inactivity, diabetes mellitus, chronic renal disease, fragility, cognitive deterioration and multimorbidity. Conclusions: The traditional risk factors selected in this study, combined with other potential conditions, improved the prediction of mortality due to heart disease in elderly and facilitated the orientation of preventive interventions in this population group.

Progress in the study of predictors of tumor regression grade after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for gastric cancer / 国际肿瘤学杂志

The overall efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced gastric cancer has been recognized. However, neoadjuvant chemotherapy is ineffective in a subset of patients due to tumor heterogeneity. The tumor regression grade (TRG) has unique advantages in assessing the efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for gastric cancer. Nonetheless, since TRG is dependent on postoperative pathology, it becomes a significant topic today to mine TRG predictors to more accurately select appropriate patients for neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Therefore, to understand the relevant research progress and current research challenges of TRG predictors after neoadjuvant chemotherapy for gastric cancer from the aspects of biomarkers, immunity, inflammatory indicators, body composition, imaging indicators, etc., is conducive to further clinical research and practice.

Analysis of Predictive Factors for Efficacy of Yiqi Yangxue Prescription Combined with Western Medicine in Treatment of Aplastic Anemia in Non-elderly Adults / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo explore the predictive factors for the efficacy of Yiqi Yangxue prescription combined with western medicine in treating aplastic anemia （AA） in non-elderly adults， so as to provide a reference for predicting the prognosis of this therapy. MethodA retrospective study was conducted with the clinical data of non-elderly adult AA patients who visited 19 hospitals including Xiyuan Hospital of the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences from September 2018 to March 2021 and were treated with Yiqi Yangxue Prescription combined with western medicine. According to the efficacy evaluation results at the 6th month of treatment， the patients were assigned into effective and ineffective groups. The two groups were compared in terms of the gender， age， disease classification ［non-severe aplastic anemia （NSAA）/severe aplastic anemia （SAA）］， course of disease， family history， complications， history of drug allergy， baseline blood routine examination ［hemoglobin （HGB）， white blood cell （WBC）， neutrophil （ANC）， platelet （PLT）， and reticulocyte （Ret）］， T lymphocyte subsets， degree of proliferation of nucleated cells in bone marrow， and expression of T-bet and GATA-3. ResultA total of 101 non-elderly adult AA patients were enrolled in this study， including 81 in the effective group and 20 in the ineffective group. The effective group had a higher proportion of the patients without a history of drug allergy than the ineffective group （P<0.05）. The body height， body weight， gender， age， disease classification， course of disease， family history， and complications showed no significant differences between two groups. The effective group had higher levels of ANC and PLT before treatment （P<0.05） and higher proportion of patients with ANC≥1.6×109/L and PLT≥25×109/L （P<0.05， P<0.01） than the ineffective group. The baseline levels of WBC， HGB， and Ret showed no significant statistical differences between two groups. The levels of CD3+HLA-DR+T cells in the effective group before treatment was higher than that in the ineffective group （P<0.05）. The levels of CD3+CD19-T cells， CD4+T cells， CD8+T cells， Th1 cells， Th2 cells， and CD3+CD25+T cells showed no significant statistical differences between two groups before treatment. The proportion of patients with active bone marrow nucleated cells proliferation in the effective group before treatment were significantly higher than that in the ineffective group, while the proportion of patients with reduced or extremely reduced proliferation were significantly lower than that in the ineffective group （P<0.05）. The expression levels of T-bet and GATA-3 genes had no significant differences between two groups before treatment. The multivariate binary logistic regression analysis showed that the ANC level before treatment and history of drug allergy were independent influencing factors for efficacy （P<0.05， P<0.01）， while other indicators were not influencing factors for efficacy. The receiver operating characteristic （ROC） curve was applied to analyze the predictive value of the ANC level before treatment in the treatment of AA in non-elderly adults with Yiqi Yangxue prescription combined with western medicine. The area under the curve was 0.679 （P<0.05）， with the critical value of 1.595×109/L， the sensitivity of 0.42， and the specificity of 0.95. ConclusionThe history of drug allergy， pre-treatment ANC， PLT， CD3+HLA-DR+ T cell levels， and proliferation of nucleated cells in bone marrow before treatment are predictive factors for the efficacy of Yiqi Yangxue prescription combined with western medicine in treating AA in non-elderly adults. This therapy tends to be more effective for the patients with no history of drug allergy， higher ANC and PLT levels before treatment， especially those with ANC≥1.6×109/L， PLT≥25×109/L， and higher CD3+ HLA-DR+T cell levels and the more active proliferation of nucleated cells in bone marrow before treatment.

Marcadores de oxigenación para la predicción de mortalidad por neumonía causada por la COVID-19

Introducción: En el Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto" no se ha evaluado el valor de los marcadores de oxígeno para la predicción de mortalidad por neumonía causada por la COVID-19. Objetivo: Determinar el valor de los marcadores de oxigenación para la predicción de mortalidad por neumonía causada por la COVID-19 en el Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto" de Guantánamo, Cuba, en el bienio 2020-2021. Método: Se realizó un estudio de una cohorte de 276 pacientes con neumonía causada por la COVID-19. Se estudiaron la saturación periférica de oxígeno (SpO2), saturación arterial de oxígeno (SaO2), diferencia alveolo-arterial de oxígeno (DA-aO2), relación presión arterial de oxígeno (PaO2) y fracción inspirada de oxígeno (FiO2) [PaO2/FiO2]. Se determinó la asociación entre variables y el egreso fallecido mediante la técnica de Ji cuadrado de independencia y el cálculo de Odds Ratio (OR). Resultados: La variable con mayor valor predictivo positivo fue la SpO2 (87,3 %) menor de 90 mmHg al momento del ingreso. El mayor valor predictivo negativo se registró para la variable DA-aO2 menor de 20 mmHg a las 48 h del ingreso (95,6 %). El riesgo atribuible fue superior para la relación PaO2/FiO2 menor de 300 mmHg (0,59) al momento del ingreso (0,52). El riesgo atribuible porcentual fue mayor para la variable DA-aO2 mayor o igual a 20 mmHg al momento del ingreso (95,8 %) y a las 48 h del ingreso (95,3 %). Conclusiones: La anormalidad de la DA-aO2, la relación PaO2/FiO2, la SaO2 y la SpO2, al momento del ingreso y a las 48 horas de este, son predictores de mortalidad en pacientes con COVID-19.

Introduction: The value of oxygen as a prognostic maker of mortality due to COVID-19 pneumonia has not been evaluated at the Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto". Objective: To identify the values of oxygenation markers for prognosing mortality caused by COVID-19 pneumonia at the Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto" de Guantánamo, Cuba, throughout period 2020-2021. Method: A cohort of 276 patients with COVID-19 pneumonia was studied. Peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2), the difference between the oxygen concentration in the alveoli and arterial system (DA-aO2), arterial oxygen pressure ratio (PaO2) and inspired oxygen fraction (FiO2) [PaO2/FiO2] were studied. The association between variables and deceased discharge was determined using the Chi-square technique and the Odds Ratio (OR) calculation. Results: The variable with the highest positive predictive value was SpO2 (87.3 %) with a value lower than 90 mmHg at admission. The highest negative predictive value was recorded for the DA-aO2 variable (95.6%), less than 20 mmHg at 48 hours after admission. Attributable risk was higher for PaO2/FiO2 ratio, less than 300 mmHg (0.59), at admission (0.52). Attributable risk percent was higher for the variable DA-aO2 ≥ 20 mmHg at admission (95.8 %) and at 48 hours after admission (95.3 %). Conclusions: Abnormal DA-aO2, PaO2/FiO2 ratio, SaO2 and SpO2, at admission and 48 hours after admission, are predictive markers of mortality in patients with COVID-19.

Introdução: No Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto" não avaliou o valor dos marcadores de oxigênio para a previsão de mortalidade por pneumonia causada pelo COVID-19. Objetivo: Determinar o valor dos marcadores de oxigenação para a predição de mortalidade por pneumonia causada por COVID-19 no Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto" de Guantánamo, Cuba, no biênio 2020-2021. Método: Foi realizado um estudo de coorte de 276 pacientes com pneumonia causada por COVID-19. Saturação periférica de oxigênio (SpO2), saturação arterial de oxigênio (SaO2), diferença alvéolo-arterial de oxigênio (DA-aO2), relação pressão arterial de oxigênio (PaO2) e fração inspirada de oxigênio (FiO2) [PaO2/FiO2]. A associação entre variáveis e alta por óbito foi determinada por meio da técnica Qui-quadrado de independência e cálculo de Odds Ratio (OR). Resultados: A variável com maior valor preditivo positivo foi SpO2 (87,3%) inferior a 90 mmHg no momento da admissão. O maior valor preditivo negativo foi registrado para a variável DA-aO2 inferior a 20 mmHg 48 h após a admissão (95,6%). O risco atribuível foi maior para relação PaO2/FiO2 inferior a 300 mmHg (0,59) no momento da admissão (0,52). O percentual de risco atribuível foi maior para a variável AD-aO2 maior ou igual a 20 mmHg no momento da admissão (95,8%) e 48 horas após a admissão (95,3%). Conclusões: A anormalidade da AD-aO2, da relação PaO2/FiO2, SaO2 e SpO2, no momento da admissão e 48 horas após a admissão, são preditores de mortalidade em pacientes com COVID-19.

Predictores de mortalidad en pacientes con exacerbación de enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica / Mortality predictors in patients with exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

RESUMEN Fundamento: La enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) es un problema de salud y constituye la tercera causa de defunción en el mundo. La mortalidad es mayor en los pacientes que presentan exacerbaciones de esa enfermedad. Objetivo: Determinar los factores predictores de mortalidad en pacientes hospitalizados con exacerbación de EPOC en una institución hospitalaria del segundo nivel de atención en Cuba. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio transversal en el Hospital General Provincial Camilo Cienfuegos de Sancti Spíritus, durante dos años. Se incluyeron 335 pacientes. Las variables recogidas se agruparon en sociodemográficas, clínicas, enfermedades crónicas asociadas y estado del paciente al egreso. Se elaboró un árbol de decisión mediante el método Chaid exhaustivo, la variable dependiente fue la mortalidad por EPOC. Resultados: Predominaron los pacientes del sexo femenino (55.2 %), con 60 años o más (79 %) y con más de 4 exacerbaciones en el último año (53.1 %). El modelo del árbol de decisión tuvo una sensibilidad de 97 %, especificidad de 89.3 % y un porcentaje global de pronóstico correcto del 93.1 %. Se identificaron seis variables predictores de mortalidad: insuficiencia respiratoria aguda, diagnóstico de neumonía, no utilización de antitrombóticos, tromboembolismo pulmonar, edad mayor de 60 años y el hábito de fumar. Conclusiones: La probabilidad más alta de fallecer durante una exacerbación de EPOC se da entre los pacientes con insuficiencia respiratoria aguda, los que son diagnosticados con neumonía durante el ingreso, los que no realizan tratamiento antitrombótico y los que tienen más de 60 años de edad.

ABSTRACT Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a health problem and the third cause of death in the world. Mortality is higher in patients who present exacerbations of this disease. Objective: To determine mortality predictors in hospitalized patients with exacerbation of COPD in a second care level hospital in Cuba. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Camilo Cienfuegos Provincial General Hospital in Sancti Spíritus, for two years. 335 patients were included. The variables collected were grouped into sociodemographic, clinical, associated chronic diseases and patient status at discharge. A decision tree was developed using the exhaustive Chaid method, the dependent variable was mortality from COPD. Results: Female patients (55.2 %), 60 years or older (79 %) and with more than 4 exacerbations in the last year (53.1 %) predominated. The decision tree model had a sensitivity of 97 %, a specificity of 89.3 %, and an overall percentage of correct diagnosis of 93.1 %. Six variables that predicted mortality were identified: acute respiratory failure, diagnosis of pneumonia, non-use of antithrombotics, pulmonary thromboembolism, age over 60 years, and smoking. Conclusions: The highest probability of dying during an exacerbation of COPD occurs among patients with acute respiratory failure, those who are diagnosed with pneumonia during admission, those who do not receive antithrombotic treatment and those who are over 60 years of age.

Clinicopathologic factors and preoperative ultrasonographic characteristics for predicting central lymph node metastasis in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma: a single center retrospective study / Fatores clínico-patológicos e características ultrassonográficas pré-operatórias na previsão de metástase em linfonodos centrais no microcarcinoma papilífero da tireoide: um estudo retrospectivo de centro único

Abstract Introduction The treatment of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma remains controversial. Central lymph node metastasis is common in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma and it is an important consideration in treatment strategy selection. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate clinicopathologic risk factors and thyroid nodule sonographic characteristics for central lymph node metastasis in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the data of 599 papillary thyroid microcarcinoma patients who underwent surgery from 2005 to 2017 at a single institution. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify the clinicopathologic factors and preoperative sonographic features of central lymph node metastasis. A receiver-operating characteristic, ROC curve analysis, was performed to identify the efficacy of ultrasonographic features in predicting central lymph node metastasis. A nomogram based on the risk factors was established to predict central lymph node metastasis. Results The incidence of central lymph node metastasis was 22.4%. The univariate and multivariate analyses suggested that gender, age, multifocality, extrathyroidal invasion, and lateral lymph node metastasis were independent risk factors for central lymph node metastasis. The univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that nodular shape, margin, and calcification were independently associated with central lymph node metastasis. The ROC curve analysis revealed that the combination of shape, margin and calcification had excellent accuracy in predicting central lymph node metastasis. The nomogram was developed based on the identified risk factors for predicting central lymph node metastasis, and the calibration plot analysis indicated the good performance and clinical utility of the nomogram. Conclusions Central lymph node metastasis is associated with male gender, younger age (<5 years), extrathyroidal invasion, multifocality and lateral lymph node metastasis in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma patients. The ultrasongraphic features, such as irregular shape, ill-defined margin and calcification, may improve the efficacy of predicting central lymph node metastasis. Surgeons and radiologists should pay close attention to the patients who have these risk factors. The nomogram may help guide surgical decision making in papillary thyroid microcarcinoma.

Resumo Introdução O tratamento do microcarcinoma papilífero de tireoide permanece controverso. A metástase em linfonodos centrais é comum e é uma consideração importante na seleção da estratégia de tratamento. Objetivo Investigar os fatores de risco clínico-patológicos e as características ultrassonográficas de nódulos tireoidianos para metástase em linfonodos centrais em microcarcinoma papilífero de tireoide. Método Foram analisados retrospectivamente os dados de 599 pacientes com microcarcinoma papilífero de tireoide submetidos à cirurgia de 2005 a 2017 em uma única instituição. Análises univariadas e multivariadas foram usadas para identificar os fatores clínico-patológicos e as características ultrassonográficas pré-operatórias das metástases em linfonodos centrais. Uma análise de curva ROC (receiver-operating characteristic) foi feita para identificar a eficácia das características ultrassonográficas na previsão dessas metástases. Um nomograma baseado nos fatores de risco foi estabelecido para prever a metástase em linfonodos centrais. Resultados A incidência de metástase em linfonodos centrais foi de 22,4%. As análises univariadas e multivariadas sugeriram que sexo, idade, multifocalidade, invasão extratireoidiana e metástase em linfonodos laterais eram fatores de risco independentes para a metástase em linfonodos centrais. As análises univariadas e multivariadas revelaram que o formato nodular, a margem e a calcificação estavam independentemente associadas à metástase em linfonodos centrais. A análise da curva ROC mostrou que a combinação do formato, margem e calcificação apresentou excelente precisão na previsão dessas metástases. O nomograma foi desenvolvido com base nos fatores de risco identificados para predizer a metástase em linfonodos centrais e a análise do gráfico de calibração indicou o bom desempenho e a utilidade clínica do nomograma. Conclusões Em pacientes com microcarcinoma papilífero de tireoide, metástase em linfonodos centrais está associado ao sexo masculino, menor idade ( < 45 anos), invasão extratireoidiana, multifocalidade e presença de metástase em linfonodos laterais. As características ultrassonográficas, como formato irregular, margem mal definida e calcificação, podem melhorar a eficácia da previsão de metástase em linfonodos centrais. Cirurgiões e radiologistas devem ficar mais atentos aos pacientes que apresentam esses fatores de risco. O nomograma pode ajudar a orientar a tomada de decisão cirúrgica para o microcarcinoma papilífero de tireoide.

Facteurs prédictifs de la surdité professionnelle induite par le bruit chez les travailleurs des centrales électriques / Predictive factors of occupational noise-induced hearing loss in power plant workers

Analyser le lien entre la surdité professionnelle induite par le bruit et les caractéristiques socioprofessionnelles des travailleurs. Méthodes: C'était une étude prospective et analytique, par enquête avec évaluation audiométrique du 1er août au 30 septembre 2020, concernant 92 travailleurs des deux centrales de la Société Nationale d'Electricité de N'Djamena.Les tests de khi2et de corrélation de Pearson étaient utilisés à la recherche d'un lien entre la surdité due au bruit et les facteurs socioprofessionnels; une différence était dite statistiquement significative si p <0,05. Résultats: L'échantillon était constitué de 96% d'hommes. L'âge variait de 23 à 64 ans avec une moyenne de 38,7 ± 9,0 ans. Quarante-sept (51%) employés étaient formés sur la sécurité en milieu professionnel. Les agents de quarts représentaient 45% des cas (n=41). La durée d'exposition moyenne au bruit était de 10,8 ± 8,5 ans. Le port des équipements de protection individuelle était régulier dans 86% des cas (n =79). La surdité professionnelle a été observée dans 55% des cas (n=51). L'âge (p <10-3) et la durée d'exposition au bruit (p=0,002) étaient les facteurs associés significativement à la surdité. Conclusion: L'âge et l'ancienneté sont les facteurs prédictifs de la surdité chez les travailleurs exposés aux bruits des centrales électriques de N'Djamena.

Predictive value of maximum ureteral wall thickness at stone bed position for extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy in the treatment of ureteral calculi / 中华泌尿外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the predictors of the efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) in the treatment of ureteral calculi, and to evaluate the predictive value of the maximum ureteral wall thickness (UWT) in the treatment of ureteral calculi with ESWL.Methods:The clinical data of 138 patients with ureteral calculi treated with ESWL in the Second People's Hospital of Hefei from January 2020 to December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. There were 91 males and 47 females. The age was (50.9±14.8) years old. The body mass index was (25.3±3.6) kg/m 2. The stones of 73 cases were located on the left side and 65 cases were on the right side. 70 cases had upper ureteral stones, 18 cases had middle ureteral stones, and 50 cases had lower ureteral stones. The median length of the stone was 8.5 (7.5, 10.5) mm. The CT value of the stone was 509 (343, 783) HU. The anteroposterior diameter of the renal pelvis was 12.0 (10.1, 16.0) mm, and UWT was (2.8 ± 0.8) mm. All patients underwent urinary non-contrast CT before lithotripsy, and the UWT of the stone bed was measured on the CT images. According to the stone removal situation 2 weeks after the operation, the patients were divided into a successful lithotripsy group and a failed lithotripsy group. Univariate analysis was used to compare the differences of various indicators between the two groups, and multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the independent predictors of ESWL in the treatment of ureteral calculi for the indicators. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to calculate the area under the curve (AUC) of each independent predictor, and the cut-off value, sensitivity and specificity were analyzed. Results:All operations were successfully completed, and the success rate of the first-stage lithotripsy was 71.7% (99/138). The results of univariate analysis showed that the stone length diameter, stone CT value, anteroposterior diameter of renal pelvis, stone skin distance, and UWT were significantly different between the successful lithotripsy group and the failure group ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in age, gender, body mass index, stone side and stone location ( P>0.05). The results of multivariate logistic analysis showed that stone length ( OR=1.393, P=0.015), stone CT value ( OR=1.002, P=0.043) and UWT ( OR=17.997, P<0.001) were all for the efficacy of ESWL in the treatment of ureteral stones. The ROC curve was used to compare the three independent predictors. The area under the UWT curve was the largest (AUC=0.898, P<0.001), followed by the length of the stone (AUC=0.744, P<0.001), and the CT value of the stone (AUC=0.672, P= 0.002). The cut-off value for UWT was 3.19 mm, which had a sensitivity of 91.9% and a specificity of 71.8% for predicting the success of ESWL lithotripsy. When dividing the patients into thin wall group (UWT ≤3.19 mm) and thick wall group (UWT>3.19 mm) according to the cut-off value, the success rates of one-stage lithotripsy in the two groups were 89.2% (91 / 102) and 22.2% (8/36), respectively ( P<0.05). Conclusions:UWT, calculus length and calculus CT value are independent predictors of the efficacy of ESWL in the treatment of ureteral calculi, and UWT has the best predictive value. When UWT≤3.19 mm, the success rate of ESWL in the treatment of ureteral calculi is higher.

Factores predictivos de mortalidad en pacientes con hemorragia digestiva alta / Predictive factors of mortality in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding / Fatores preditivos de mortalidade em pacientes com sangramento gastrointestinal superior

RESUMEN Introducción: la hemorragia digestiva alta constituye toda pérdida hemática de volumen suficiente como para producir hematemesis, melena o ambas, cuyo origen se encuentra entre el esfínter esofágico superior y el ángulo de Treitz. Objetivo: determinar los factores predictivos de mortalidad en pacientes con hemorragia digestiva alta. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, analítico, de cohorte prospectiva. Se seleccionó una muestra de 456 pacientes mayores de 15 años con el diagnóstico clínico de hemorragia digestiva alta admitidos en el cuerpo de guardia de cirugía general y unidad de cuidados intensivos y emergentes del Hospital Celia Sánchez Manduley, Manzanillo, entre enero de 2020 a diciembre de 2021. Se identificó una cohorte de pacientes egresados vivos (n=415) y una cohorte de pacientes fallecidos (n=41). Se realizó un análisis bivariado y posteriormente un análisis multivariado. Resultados: el modelo más ajustado de los factores predictivos de mortalidad quedó constituido por las siguientes variables: edad mayor de 60 años, shock hipovolémico, insuficiencia cardíaca, insuficiencia hepática yhemorragia recidivante. Conclusiones: se obtuvo un modelo ajustado con los factores predictivos de mortalidad en pacientes con hemorragia digestiva alta. Por lo tanto, podremos egresar precozmente a un paciente con bajo riesgo de mortalidad, mientras que podemos considerar el ingreso de un paciente de alto riesgo en la unidad de cuidados intensivos.

ABSTRACT Introduction: upper gastrointestinal bleeding constitutes any blood loss of sufficient volume to produce hematemesis, melena or both, whose origin is between the upper esophageal sphincter and the angle of Treitz. Objective: to determine the predictive factors of mortality in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Methods: an observational, analytical, prospective cohort study was carried out. A sample of 456 patients older than 15 years with the clinical diagnosis of upper gastrointestinal bleeding admitted to the general surgery guardhouse and intensive and emergent care unit of the Celia Sánchez Manduley Hospital, Manzanillo, between January 2020 and December, was selected. 2021. A cohort of patients discharged alive (n = 415) and a cohort of deceased patients (n = 41) were identified. A bivariate analysis was performed and subsequently a multivariate analysis. Results: the most adjusted model of the predictive factors of mortality was made up of the following variables: age over 60 years, hypovolemic shock, heart failure, liver failure and recurrent bleeding. Conclusions: an adjusted model was obtained with the predictive factors of mortality in patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Therefore, we can discharge a patient with low risk of mortality early, while we can consider the admission of a high-risk patient to the intensive care unit.

RESUMO Introdução: o sangramento gastrointestinal superior constitui qualquer perda de sangue de volume suficiente para produzir hematêmese, melena ou ambas, cuja origem se encontra entre o esfíncter esofágico superior e o ângulo de Treitz. Objetivo: determinar os fatores preditivos de mortalidade em pacientes com hemorragia digestiva alta. Métodos: foi realizado um estudo observacional, analítico e de coorte prospectivo. Foi selecionada uma amostra de 456 pacientes maiores de 15 anos com diagnóstico clínico de hemorragia digestiva alta internados na enfermaria de cirurgia geral e unidade de terapia intensiva e emergente do Hospital Celia Sánchez Manduley, Manzanillo, entre janeiro de 2020 e dezembro. coorte de pacientes que receberam alta com vida (n = 415) e uma coorte de pacientes falecidos (n = 41). Foi realizada uma análise bivariada e posteriormente uma análise multivariada. Resultados: o modelo mais ajustado dos fatores preditivos de mortalidade foi composto pelas seguintes variáveis: idade acima de 60 anos, choque hipovolêmico, insuficiência cardíaca, insuficiência hepática e sangramento recorrente. Conclusões: foi obtido um modelo ajustado com os fatores preditivos de mortalidade em pacientes com hemorragia digestiva alta. Por tanto, podemos dar alta precoce a um paciente com baixo risco de mortalidade, en quanto podemos considerar a admissão de um paciente de alto risco à unidade de terapia intensiva.

Factores predictivos de mortalidad en el infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST / Predictive factors of mortality in ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction

RESUMEN Introducción: Las enfermedades cardiovasculares son la mayor causa de mortalidad del orbe. A pesar de que la incidencia del infarto de miocardio ha disminuido en Estados Unidos, sustancialmente en las últimas décadas, no han dejado de tener un fuerte impacto socioeconómico-laboral. Objetivo: Identificar los factores predictivos de mortalidad en los pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST (IMACEST). Método: Se realizó un estudio analítico con 118 pacientes, ingresados en dos hospitales de Santiago de Cuba, durante el período comprendido entre enero de 2017 y diciembre de 2019. El análisis de los datos se basó en la construcción de un modelo multivariado (regresión logística multivariable) para identificar los factores predictivos de la mortalidad. Resultados: Hubo un total de 15 fallecidos durante el período de hospitalización. En la investigación los hombres marcaron la diferencia, sin poder asociar estadísticamente la variable de género con la mortalidad; sin embargo, la edad mayor a 80 años (RR 7,89; IC 95%: 1,97-7,93; p<0,0001), el shock cardiogénico (RR 8,12; IC 95%: 2,85-9,18; p=0,001), no aplicar la trombólisis (RR 9,13; IC 95%: 3,32-9,45; p=0,001), la ventana terapéutica mayor de 6 horas (RR 16,96; IC 95%: 9,79-62,90; p<0,0001), y la localización inferior del infarto (RR 7,89; IC 95%: 1,97-7,93; p<0,0001), mostraron una asociación estadística muy significativa con la mortalidad. Conclusiones: Se identificaron algunos factores predictivos de mortalidad para el IMACEST, donde la edad mayor a los 80 años, el shock cardiogénico y una ventana terapéutica mayor de seis horas se erigen como los principales factores causales en la explicación fisiopatológica y estadística de la mortalidad.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are the top cause of mortality worldwide. Although the incidence of myocardial infarction has decreased substantially in the United States in recent decades, they have not ceased to have a strong socioeconomic and occupational impact. Objective: To identify predictive factors of mortality in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Method: An analytical study was carried out in 118 patients, admitted to two hospitals in Santiago de Cuba, from January 2017 to December 2019. Data analysis was based on the construction of a multivariate model (multivariable logistic regression) to identify predictors of mortality. Results: There were 15 deaths in total during hospitalization period. In the research, men marked the difference, without being able to statistically associate this gender variable with mortality; however, age over 80 years old (RR 7.89; 95% CI: 1.97-7.93; p<0.0001), cardiogenic shock (RR 8.12; CI 95%: 2.85-9.18; p=0.001), not applying thrombolysis (RR 9.13; CI 95%: 3.32-9.45; p=0.001), therapeutic window greater than six hours (RR 16.96; CI 95%: 9.79-62.90; p<0.0001), and the inferior wall myocardial infraction (RR 7.89; CI 95%: 1.97-7.93; p<0.0001), showed a highly significant statistical association with mortality. Conclusions: Some predictive factors of mortality were identified for STEMI, where age older than 80 years old, cardiogenic shock and a therapeutic window longer than six hours stand as the main causal factors in the pathophysiological and statistical explanation of mortality.

Efficacy and predictive factors of sacral neuromodulation on neurogenic bladder / 中华泌尿外科杂志

Objective:To explore the efficacy of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) in the treatment of neurogenic bladder (NB), and to analyze the predictive factors.Methods:The clinical data of 91 patients underwent SNM testing therapy from January 2012 to January 2020 in China Rehabilitation Research Center were reviewed. There were 53 males and 48 females with the average age of 36.5(28.0-52.5)years. Urinary diary, residual urine, neurogenic bowel dysfunction score (NBDS), video-urodynamic and pelvic floor electrophysiological examination before treatment were recorded. Among the 91 patients, 60 patients had symptoms of urinary storage period, including urgency, frequency and / or incontinence.The average number of voids/24 h was 13 (11, 18), the average volume per void was (123.0±45.9) ml, the average degree of urgency was (3.5±1.0), and the average 24-hour urine leakage was 100.0(50.0, 231.5) ml. 78 patients had chronic urinary retention symptoms, and the average post-void residual volume (PVR) was 200.0 (132.3, 300.0) ml. The neurogenic bowel dysfunction score (NBDs) of 91 patients was 11 (6.25, 13). The mean maximum cystometric capacity (MCC), maximum detrusor pressure (P detmax) and bladder compliance were 250 (117, 369) ml, 33 (17, 72) cmH 2O and 8.275 (4.540, 20.307) ml / cmH 2O, respectively. Pelvic floor electrophysiological examination showed that somatosensory evoked potential (SEP) was normal in 39 cases, abnormal in 19 cases and undetected in 33 cases. Bulbocavernosus reflex (BCR) was normal in 39 patients, abnormal in 23 patients and undetected in 29 patients. At the end of the test phase, the patient was re-evaluated. If " effective" or the patient willing to implant, permanent implantation of pulse generator was done. " Effective" was defined as improvement of more than 50% in at least one of the following conditions, including the number of voids in 24 hours, volume per void, degree of urgency, leakage volume in 24 hours, PVR. Quantitative values were compared using the t-test or non-parametric test. The potential risk factors were considered by logistic regression analysis. Results:The average test time was (18.7±6.7) days. 43/60 patients (71.7%) had improvement of more than 50% in at least one symptom of the storage period, and 21/78 patients (26.9%) had more than 50% improvement in urination symptoms. NBDS decreased from 11(6.25, 13) to 3(0, 8)( P < 0.05). During the filling period, MCC increased from 173.0(98.0, 326.0) ml to 300.0(201.0, 386.0) ml ( P<0.05), P detmax decreased from 40.0(27.0, 84.0) cmH 2O to 22.0(15.0, 60.0) cmH 2O ( P < 0.05), and bladder compliance increased from 6.84(3.75, 11.79) ml/cm H 2O to 19.23(4.95, 32) ml/cm H 2O ( P < 0.05). At the end of the test phase, 54 (59.3%) patients underwent permanent implantation. The median follow-up was 25.5 (11.5, 60.5) months. Four patients lost their curative effect, two patients developed grade 2 vesicoureteral reflux, and one patient underwent cystoplasty. Risk factors analysis showed that chronic urinary retention was a statistically significant variable ( P<0.05). Conclusions:SNM can not only improve the lower urinary tract symptoms of patients with neurogenic bladder, but also improve the urodynamic parameters and bowel function. Patients with chronic urinary retention symptoms before treatment experienced low efficiency at the end of the test phase.

Suicide and suicide attempts in adults: exploring suicide risk 24 months after a psychiatric emergency room visit

Objective: Suicide risk (including attempted and completed suicide) should be measured over short periods of time after contacting health services. The objective of this study was to identify the patterns of attempted and completed suicides within 24-months of a psychiatric emergency department visit, as well as to investigate predictive risk factors, including sociodemographic and clinical variables, previous suicidal behavior, and service utilization. Method: A convenience sample (n=147), recruited at a general hospital's psychiatric emergency room, included patients with suicidal ideation, suicidal plans or previous suicide attempts. These patients were followed for 24 months, focusing on two main outcomes: attempted and completed suicides. Results: After six months there were no completed suicides and 36 suicide attempts, while after 24 months there were seven completed suicides and 69 suicide attempts. A final logistic regression model for suicide attempts at 24 months identified somatic pathology and the number of previous psychiatric hospitalizations as predictive factors, with a good area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. Conclusions: The findings showed distinct patterns of attempted and completed suicides over time, indicating the importance of a systematic multidisciplinary suicide risk evaluation in psychiatric emergency rooms.

A prospective study on the predictors of mechanical ventilation in organophosphate poisoning

Background: Organophosphorus poisoning is one of the most common poisonings often requiring ICU care and ventilatory support. The objective and aim of this study are to identify the factors which predict the need for ventilation in these patients.Methods: 50 patients who were diagnosed to have consumed organophosphorus compound poison admitted in Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation who presented within 24 hours of consumption are included in the study. Patients with double poisonings, concomitant illnesses, chronic lung diseases and those treated outside are excluded from the study.Results: A total number of 50 patients were studied. 18(36%) patients required ventilation. Generalized fasciculations was a discernible feature in 66% of cases in this study. 69.2% of patients with a fasciculation score of ≥4 required ventilation. Ventilation was needed by 55% of patients who had a Glasgow Coma Scale score of ≤10.Conclusions: Patients who presented with higher fasciculation scores and/or lower GCS scores were more likely to require ventilation. Using GCS scores as a predictor for the requirement of ventilatory support in organophosphate poisoning, a GCS score ten or less was significantly associated with an increased need for ventilatory support.

Surgical Site Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance Following Resection and Reconstructive Surgery for Oral Cancers: Are We Ready for the Superbugs

Background: Surgical site infection (SSI) is the most common complication occurring in 19–47% of patients undergoing surgery for head-and-neck cancers. This study aims to assess the predictive factors of SSIs and antibiotic resistance patterns in patients undergoing resection and reconstructive surgery for oral cancers. Materials and Methods: The clinicopathological data of all patients who underwent surgery for oral cancers at our oncological referral center in South India between October 2014 and May 2019 were reviewed. The differences between groups were compared using independent samples t-test or Mann–Whitney U-test and categorical data were analyzed by Pearson’s Chisquare test, Fisher’s exact, or continuity correction where appropriate. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to find the cutoff levels for the various predictors of SSI, using the Youden’s index method. A linear regression analysis was done to define the cause-effect relationship of the categorical response variable with explanatory variables. Results: Of the 135 patients who were studied in our cohort, 43 patients (31.2%) developed SSI. The most commonly isolated organism was Staphylococcus aureus (11%; n = 15) followed by Enterococcus species (4.4%; n = 6) followed by coagulasenegative S. aureus (3%; n = 4) and Escherichia coli (37%; n = 5). In this study, univariate and multivariate analyses have showed that diabetes mellitus, body mass index (BMI) >25 or <18, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) >3.75, platelet-tolymphocyte ratio (PLR) >137.5, neoadjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy, prolonged operative duration, and prolonged anesthesia exposure may render patients more vulnerable to SSI. Moreover, among these parameters, a PLR >137.5, NLR >3.75, and BMI >25 or <18 were found to be highly predictive of SSI. The highly resistant organisms isolated were S. aureus and Enterococcus species in our study. Conclusion: The identification of these risk factors in patients undergoing surgery for oral cancers can help in the identification of patients who may be at a higher risk of developing SSI and therefore help in improving the overall outcome, especially in an LMIC setting.

Predictores académicos y sociodemográficos de ansiedad y bienestar psicológico en estudiantes mexicanos de medicina. Estudio transversal / Academic and sociodemographic predictors of anxiety and psychological well-being in Mexican medical students. A cross-sectional study

Resumen Introducción: Estudiantes de medicina reportan mayor ansiedad que estudiantes de otras carreras. El conocimiento sobre su bienestar psicológico es escaso. Objetivo: Identificar factores sociodemográficos y académicos predictores del nivel de ansiedad y bienestar psicológico en estudiantes mexicanos de medicina. Método: Estudio transversal de estudiantes mexicanos de medicina de primer (n = 59), tercer (n = 43) y quinto semestre (n = 59), que contestaron un cuestionario sociodemográfico, la Escala de Ansiedad de Beck, la Escala de Bienestar Psicológico para Adultos y la Escala de Evaluación de la Cohesión y la Adaptabilidad Familiar. Resultados: Las mujeres presentaron mayor ansiedad (p < 0.01). La ansiedad en hombres fue similar en los distintos semestres (p > 0.05); las mujeres de tercer y quinto semestre fueron más ansiosas que las del primero (p < 0.01). Ansiedad y bienestar psicológico correlacionaron negativamente (p < 0.001). Se identificaron los subgrupos “Menor ansiedad, mayor bienestar” y “Mayor ansiedad, menor bienestar”, y una regresión logística identificó que ser mujer (OR = 4.70) y no profesar alguna religión (OR = 2.49) son factores predictores de mayor ansiedad. Conclusiones: Las estudiantes de medicina constituyen una población de riesgo para mayor ansiedad y menor bienestar psicológico, lo que compromete su aprendizaje, calidad de vida y futuro ejercicio profesional.

Abstract Introduction: Medical students report higher levels of anxiety than students from other majors. Knowledge about their psychological well-being is scarce. Objective: To identify sociodemographic and academic factors that predict the level of anxiety and psychological well-being in Mexican medical students. Method: Cross-sectional study of Mexican medical students of first (n = 59), third (n = 43) and fifth semester (n = 59), who answered a sociodemographic questionnaire, Beck Anxiety Inventory, the Psychological Well-being Scale for adults and the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale. Results: Females showed higher levels of anxiety (p < 0.01). Anxiety in males was similar in the different semesters (p > 0.05); women of third and fifth semesters were more anxious than those at first semester (p < 0.01). Anxiety and psychological well-being were negatively correlated (p < 0.001). The “Less anxiety, higher level of well-being” and “More anxiety, lower level of well-being” subgroups were characterized, and a logistic regression identified that being a woman (OR = 4.70) and not practicing any religion (OR = 2.49) are predictive factors of higher levels of anxiety. Conclusions: Female medical students constitute a population at risk for higher levels of anxiety and less psychological well-being, which compromises their learning, quality of life and future professional practice.

Recurrencia de fibrilación auricular posablación de venas pulmonares. Identificación de factores predictores / Atrial fibrillation recurrence post pulmonary vein ablation. Identification of predictive factors / Recorrência da fibrilação atrial pós-ablação das veias pulmonares. Identificação de fatores preditivos

Resumen: La ablación de la fibrilación auricular mediante el aislamiento de las venas pulmonares, es una estrategia ampliamente utilizada en la actualidad. La recurrencia posablación es un problema frecuente. Se han investigado varios predictores de recurrencia con el fin de optimizar la elección del paciente que más se beneficia del procedimiento. Actualmente la evidencia es controvertida, siendo necesarios más estudios al respecto.

Summary: The ablation of atrial fibrillation based on pulmonary veins isolation, is a widely used strategy nowadays. Post ablation recurrence is a frequent problem. Several recurrence predictors have been researched, with the purpose of choosing the patient that would benefit the most from this procedure. Current evidence is controversial and more research is needed.