Machine learning in predicting severe acute respiratory infection outbreaks / Aprendizado de máquina na previsão de surtos de síndrome respiratória aguda grave / Aprendizaje automático en la predicción de brotes de síndrome respiratorio agudo grave

Abstract: Severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) outbreaks occur annually, with seasonal peaks varying among geographic regions. Case notification is important to prepare healthcare networks for patient attendance and hospitalization. Thus, health managers need adequate resource planning tools for SARI seasons. This study aims to predict SARI outbreaks based on models generated with machine learning using SARI hospitalization notification data. In this study, data from the reporting of SARI hospitalization cases in Brazil from 2013 to 2020 were used, excluding SARI cases caused by COVID-19. These data were prepared to feed a neural network configured to generate predictive models for time series. The neural network was implemented with a pipeline tool. Models were generated for the five Brazilian regions and validated for different years of SARI outbreaks. By using neural networks, it was possible to generate predictive models for SARI peaks, volume of cases per season, and for the beginning of the pre-epidemic period, with good weekly incidence correlation (R2 = 0.97; 95%CI: 0.95-0.98, for the 2019 season in the Southeastern Brazil). The predictive models achieved a good prediction of the volume of reported cases of SARI; accordingly, 9,936 cases were observed in 2019 in Southern Brazil, and the prediction made by the models showed a median of 9,405 (95%CI: 9,105-9,738). The identification of the period of occurrence of a SARI outbreak is possible using predictive models generated with neural networks and algorithms that employ time series.

Resumo: Surtos de síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SRAG) ocorrem anualmente, com picos sazonais variando entre regiões geográficas. A notificação dos casos é importante para preparar as redes de atenção à saúde para o atendimento e internação dos pacientes. Portanto, os gestores de saúde precisam ter ferramentas adequadas de planejamento de recursos para as temporadas de SRAG. Este estudo tem como objetivo prever surtos de SRAG com base em modelos gerados com aprendizado de máquina usando dados de internação por SRAG. Foram incluídos dados sobre casos de hospitalização por SRAG no Brasil de 2013 a 2020, excluindo os casos causados pela COVID-19. Estes dados foram preparados para alimentar uma rede neural configurada para gerar modelos preditivos para séries temporais. A rede neural foi implementada com uma ferramenta de pipeline. Os modelos foram gerados para as cinco regiões brasileiras e validados para diferentes anos de surtos de SRAG. Com o uso de redes neurais, foi possível gerar modelos preditivos para picos de SRAG, volume de casos por temporada e para o início do período pré-epidêmico, com boa correlação de incidência semanal (R2 = 0,97; IC95%: 0,95-0,98, para a temporada de 2019 na Região Sudeste). Os modelos preditivos obtiveram uma boa previsão do volume de casos notificados de SRAG; dessa forma, foram observados 9.936 casos em 2019 na Região Sul, e a previsão feita pelos modelos mostrou uma mediana de 9.405 (IC95%: 9.105-9.738). A identificação do período de ocorrência de um surto de SRAG é possível por meio de modelos preditivos gerados com o uso de redes neurais e algoritmos que aplicam séries temporais.

Resumen: Brotes de síndrome respiratorio agudo grave (SRAG) ocurren todos los años, con picos estacionales que varían entre regiones geográficas. La notificación de los casos es importante para preparar las redes de atención a la salud para el cuidado y hospitalización de los pacientes. Por lo tanto, los gestores de salud deben tener herramientas adecuadas de planificación de recursos para las temporadas de SRAG. Este estudio tiene el objetivo de predecir brotes de SRAG con base en modelos generados con aprendizaje automático utilizando datos de hospitalización por SRAG. Se incluyeron datos sobre casos de hospitalización por SRAG en Brasil desde 2013 hasta 2020, salvo los casos causados por la COVID-19. Se prepararon estos datos para alimentar una red neural configurada para generar modelos predictivos para series temporales. Se implementó la red neural con una herramienta de canalización. Se generaron los modelos para las cinco regiones brasileñas y se validaron para diferentes años de brotes de SRAG. Con el uso de redes neurales, se pudo generar modelos predictivos para los picos de SRAG, el volumen de casos por temporada y para el inicio del periodo pre-epidémico, con una buena correlación de incidencia semanal (R2 = 0,97; IC95%: 0,95-0,98, para la temporada de 2019 en la Región Sudeste). Los modelos predictivos tuvieron una buena predicción del volumen de casos notificados de SRAG; así, se observaron 9.936 casos en 2019 en la Región Sur, y la predicción de los modelos mostró una mediana de 9.405 (IC95%: 9.105-9.738). La identificación del periodo de ocurrencia de un brote de SRAG es posible a través de modelos predictivos generados con el uso de redes neurales y algoritmos que aplican series temporales.

Factors associated with respiratory morbidity in the first year of life

Abstract Objectives: To investigate the association between socioeconomic and nutritional factors with respiratory morbidity in the first year of life in different regions of Brazil. Methodology: A nested case-control study within a randomized field trial was conducted in three capital cities (Porto Alegre, Manaus, and Salvador), representing different macro-regions of the country. Cases were defined as children with a reported previous diagnosis of asthma, bronchiolitis, or pneumonia. Corresponding controls were matched by age and sex in a 2:1 ratio, selected consecutively from the original cohort, resulting in a sample of 222 children. Bivariate analyses were performed to assess the association between sociodemographic and nutritional variables with respiratory morbidity outcomes, calculating odds ratios (OR) and their respective confidence intervals (95% CI). Values of p < 0.05 were considered significant. Potential confounding factors were adjusted through multivariate analysis (logistic regression). Results: Maternal smoking and breastfeeding for less than six months showed a significant association and increased risk of respiratory disease (OR=2.12 and 2.05, respectively). Children born in the Southern region of Brazil also demonstrated a higher association and risk of respiratory morbidity. The consumption of ultra-processed foods did not show a significant association or increased risk of respiratory disease. Conclusions: Maternal smoking, breastfeeding for less than six months, and being born in the Southern region of Brazil are risk factors for the development of respiratory morbidity in the first year of life. The consumption of ultra-processed foods does not appear to pose a risk, but it was prevalent in more than 80% of the population, limiting its discriminatory power of analysis.

Infección respiratoria baja en neonatos asociados a ventilación mecánica

Introducción: la infección respiratoria baja constituye una importante causa de mortalidad y morbilidad en el recién nacido. Objetivo: identificar los factores de riesgo para la infección respiratoria baja asociada a la ventilación mecánica artificial invasiva y no invasiva en los recién nacidos ingresados en la UCIN del servicio de Neonatología del Hospital General Docente Carlos Manuel de Céspedes de enero 2017 hasta diciembre del 2019. Métodos: se realizó un estudio analítico de casos y controles. Los grupos de estudio estuvieron conformados por 25 casos y 50 controles respectivamente. Resultados: las variables edad gestacional antes las 37 semanas de gestación, el bajo peso al nacer poseen dos veces o más riesgos de padecer una infección respiratoria baja asociada a la ventilación mecánica de forma significativa con una p<0,05; la estadía mayor de 3 días en ventilación mostró significancia con una p: 0,031; entre los diagnósticos que llevaron a la ventilación mecánica fue la enfermedad de la membrana hialina con una p: 0,025. Conclusiones: La edad gestacional menor de 37 semanas, el peso al nacer menor de 2 500 gramos, el tiempo ventilatorio de más de 3 días y el diagnóstico de la enfermedad de la membrana hialina fueron las variables significativas.

Introduction: lower respiratory infection is an important cause of mortality and morbidity in the newborn. Objective: to identify the risk factors for lower respiratory infection associated with invasive and non-invasive artificial mechanical ventilation in newborns admitted to the NICU of the Neonatology service of the Carlos Manuel de Céspedes Teaching General Hospital from January 2017 to December 2019. Methods: an analytical case-control study was conducted. The study groups consisted of 25 cases and 50 controls, respectively. Results: the variables gestational age before 37 weeks of gestation, low birth weight have twice or more risks of suffering a lower respiratory infection associated with mechanical ventilation significantly with a p<0.05; The stay longer than 3 days in ventilation showed significance with a p: 0.031; Among the diagnoses that led to mechanical ventilation was hyaline membrane disease with a p: 0.025. Conclusions: Gestational age less than 37 weeks, birth weight less than 2 500 grams, ventilatory time of more than 3 days and diagnosis of hyaline membrane disease were the significant variables.

Introdução: a infecção respiratória inferior é uma importante causa de mortalidade e morbidade no recém-nascido. Objetivo: identificar os fatores de risco para infecção respiratória inferior associados à ventilação mecânica artificial invasiva e não invasiva em recém-nascidos internados na UTIN do serviço de Neonatologia do Hospital Geral Universitário Carlos Manuel de Céspedes no período de janeiro de 2017 a dezembro de 2019. Métodos: foi realizado um estudo analítico caso-controle. Os grupos de estudo foram constituídos por 25 casos e 50 controles, respectivamente. Resultados: as variáveis idade gestacional antes de 37 semanas de gestação, baixo peso ao nascer apresentam duas ou mais vezes ou mais riscos de sofrer uma infecção respiratória inferior associada à ventilação mecânica significativamente com p<0,05; A permanência superior a 3 dias em ventilação mostrou significância com p: 0,031; Entre os diagnósticos que levaram à ventilação mecânica estava a doença da membrana hialina com p: 0,025. Conclusões: Idade gestacional inferior a 37 semanas, peso ao nascer inferior a 2.500 gramas, tempo ventilatório superior a 3 dias e diagnóstico de doença da membrana hialina foram as variáveis significativas.

Investigation of viral etiology with sever acute respiratory infection of hospitalized patients in Guangdong Province from 2019 to 2021 / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective To investigate the infection status and epidemiological characteristics of viral pathogens in hospitalized patients with severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) in Guangdong Province from 2019 to 2021, so as to provide reference for clinical diagnosis and prevention. Methods The respiratory tract samples of SARI patients collected from 2019 to 2021 were detected and analyzed for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus (ADV), human rhinovirus/enterovirus (HRV/EV), human metapneumonic virus (HMPV) and other common respiratory viruses using Luminex respiratory multi-pathogen detection technology. Results A total of 1 948 influenza-negative cases were collected, of which 24.28 % were positive detection of virus infection. HRV/EV was the highest (10.32%), followed by RSV (4.31%). The detection rates were statistically significantly different among different age groups (χ2=176.186，P2=0.042，P>0.05). The detection peaks of RSV were mainly concentrated in summer and autumn, while HMPV was prevalent in winter, and HRV/EV and ADV had no obvious seasonality. Mixed infection was found in 39 samples, and the mixed infection rate was 2.00%. In the mixed infection cases, HPIV and HRV/EV combined infection was the most common. Conclusion HRV/EV, RSV, HMPV and ADV are predominant viral pathogens in SARI influenza-negative hospitalized cases in Guangdong Province from 2019 to 2021. It is recommended to strengthen the surveillance of SARI cases in children under 5 years old.

Postinfectious Olfactory Complaints: A Follow-up Study

Abstract Introduction Acute upper respiratory infection (AURI) is the most common cause of postinfectious olfactory dysfunction (PIOD). Objective We investigated the prevalence of PIOD in a large group of patients reporting persistent smell impairment perception after the AURI resolution. Methods Olfactometry was performed within 1 month after the common cold resolution and after 1 year in 467 (299 males, mean age 41.7 years) outpatients. The Sniffin' Sticks olfactory test (Burghart instruments, Wedel, Germany) was used. Results Anosmia was documented in 28 (6%) patients, hyposmia in 33 (7%), and cacosmia in 55 (11.7%). After 1 year, PIOD improved in 82 (79.6%) patients re-tested. Conclusion The current study demonstrated that persistent olfactory dysfunction is a relevant symptom in patients with AURI, even though many patients had normal olfactometry. Thus, smell impairment deserves careful attention and requires objective documentation.

Identificación de agentes virales en niños con infección respiratoria aguda

Introducción: Las infecciones respiratorias agudas representan un problema de salud en niños, con elevadas cifras de morbilidad y elevado índice de mortalidad. Objetivo: Determinar la circulación de virus respiratorios en niños ingresados con diagnóstico de infección respiratoria aguda, negativos para COVID-19. Métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo en 119 niños con infección respiratoria aguda, entre 0 y 6 años e ingreso hospitalario entre octubre de 2021-abril de 2022. Se tomaron muestras de exudado nasofaríngeo para estudio virológico (reacción en cadena de la polimerasa en tiempo real). Las variables estudiadas fueron: edad, sexo, diagnóstico clínico, período de ocurrencia y aislamiento de virus respiratorios. Resultados: Predominó el sexo femenino con 51 % y la edad correspondiente al período neonatal con 50 %, seguidos por lactantes entre 1 y 11 meses (40 %), solo 10 % entre 1 y 6 años de edad. Resultaron positivas 42 % de las muestras con predominio del CoV229E (78 %); se aislaron otros virus como influenza A (6 %), sincitial respiratorio (6 %), CoVOC43 (2 %) y rinovirus (2 %). El CoV229E fue frecuente en pacientes con infección respiratoria aguda alta (48,7 %), seguido de infección respiratoria aguda grave (20,5 %) y bronquiolitis (28,2 %). Se detectó coinfección viral solo en infección respiratoria aguda grave, específicamente por IFA/CoV229E (4 %) y CoV229E/bocavirus (2 %). Conclusiones: Se destaca la importancia de la biología molecular para el aislamiento viral. El coronavirus CoV229E tiene relevancia en los casos de infección respiratoria aguda alta y grave principalmente en los menores de 1 año.

Introduction: Acute respiratory infections represent a health problem in children, with high morbidity and high mortality rates. Objective: To determine the circulation of respiratory viruses in children admitted with a diagnosis of acute respiratory infection, negative to COVID-19. Methods: Descriptive observational study in 119 children with acute respiratory infection, in the ages from 0 to 6, and with hospital admission in the period from October 2021 to April 2022. Nasopharyngeal exudate samples were taken for virological study (real-time polymerase chain reaction). The variables studied were: age, sex, clinical diagnosis, period of occurrence and isolation of respiratory viruses. Results: The female sex predominated with 51% and the age corresponding to the neonatal period with 50 %, followed by infants between 1 and 11 months (40%), and only 10% in the ages from 1 to 6 years. 42 % of the samples with a predominance of CoV229E (78%) were positive; other viruses such as influenza A (6 %), respiratory syncytial (6 %), CoVOC43 (2%) and rhinovirus (2%) were isolated. CoV229E was common in patients with high acute respiratory infection (48.7%), followed by severe acute respiratory infection (20.5%) and bronchiolitis (28.2%). Viral co-infection was detected only in severe acute respiratory infection, specifically by IFA/CoV229E (4%) and CoV229E/bocavirus (2%). Conclusions: The importance of molecular biology for viral isolation is highlighted. The Coronavirus CoV229E has relevance in cases of acute high and severe respiratory infection mainly in children under 1 year old.

Bronquiolitis obliterante y SARS-CoV-2: el inicio de una asociación

La infección por SARS-CoV-2 en la población pediátrica gene-ralmente se manifiesta con síntomas leves; sin embargo, en pacientes con co-morbilidades puede haber compromiso pulmonar grave. Se presenta el caso de un lactante de tres meses de edad con una infección por SARS-CoV-2, con sintomatología respiratoria persistente por 8 semanas después de la infección inicial, con RPC persistentemente positiva, requiriendo varias hospitalizaciones, oxígeno suplementario y ventilación mecánica invasiva. Se encontraron hallazgos clínicos y radiológicos compatibles con una bronquiolitis obliterante asociada a la infección por SARS-CoV-2. Hubo una adecuada respuesta clínica, después del inicio de tratamiento de primera línea para bronquiolitis obliterante, y una evolución favorable durante el seguimiento hasta la fecha, evidenciando la importancia de tener en cuenta esta asociación en la práctica clínica.

SARS-CoV-2 infection in the pediatric population usually manifests with mild symptoms; however, in patients with comorbidities, there may be a severe pulmonary compromise. We present the case of a 3-month-old patient with acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, with persistent respiratory symptoms up to 8 weeks after the initial infection, with a persistently positive PCR test, requiring several hospitalizations, supplemental oxygen, and even invasive mechanical ventilation. Clinical and radiological manifestations were found consistent with bronchiolitis obliterans associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection. An adequate clinical response was documented after starting first-line treatment for bronchiolitis obliterans with satisfactory evolution during follow-up to date, evidencing the importance of considering this association in clinical practice.

Morbilidad por infecciones respiratorias agudas altas en menores de 5 años / Morbidity from acute upper respiratory infections in children under 5 years of age / Morbidade de infecções respiratórias superiores agudas em crianças menores de 5 anos de idade

RESUMEN Introducción: las infecciones respiratorias agudas (IRA) constituyen la causa más frecuente en las consultas de pediatría. Objetivo: caracterizar el comportamiento de la morbilidad por infecciones respiratorias altas en menores de 5 años, en el servicio de respiratorio del Hospital Pediátrico Docente "General Luis Ángel Milanés Tamayo, desde enero a marzo de 2019. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal. El universo estuvo constituido por 172 niños que ingresaron en este periodo y la muestra después de aplicados los criterios de inclusión y exclusión quedó conformada por 74 niños. El procesamiento de los datos se realizó mediante el programa EPIDAT versión 3.1, como procesador de texto, se utilizaron los métodos teóricos, empíricos y estadísticos. Resultados: predominaron los niños menores de 1 año (51,3%), el sexo masculino(64,8%), la estadía hospitalaria fue generalmente menos de 3 días(64,8%) la procedencia urbana (67,5%), la rinofaringitis aguda como la IRAA más frecuente (74,3%) y la exposición al humo pasivo como principal factor predisponente(56,7%). Conclusiones: se concluyó que en el estudio predominaron los niños menores de 1 año, el sexo masculino , la estadía hospitalaria fue generalmente menos de 3 días, la procedencia urbana, la rinofaringitis aguda como la IRAA más frecuente , la exposición al humo pasivo como principal factor de riesgo asociado.

ABSTRACT Introduction: acute respiratory infections (ARI) are the most frequent cause in paediatric consultations. Objective: to characterize the behavior of morbidity due to upper respiratory infections in children under 5 years of age, in the respiratory service of the Pediatric Teaching Hospital "General Luis Ángel Milanés Tamayo", from January to March 2019. Methods: an observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted. The universe consisted of 172 children who entered in this period and the sample after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria was made up of 74 children. The data processing was carried out using the EPIDAT version 3.1 program, as a word processor, theoretical, empirical and statistical methods were used. Results: children under 1 year of age (51.3%), male sex (64.8%), hospital stay was generally less than 3 days (64.8%) urban origin (67.5%), acute rhinopharyngitis as the most frequent HAA (74.3%) and exposure to secondhand smoke as the main predisposing factor (56.7%). Conclusions: it was concluded that in the study predominated children under 1 year, the male sex, the hospital stay was generally less than 3 days, urban origin, acute rhinopharyngitis as the most frequent HAIS, exposure to passive smoke as the main associated risk factor.

RESUMO Introdução: infecções respiratórias agudas (RV) são a causa mais frequente em consultas pediátricas. Objetivo: caracterizar o comportamento da morbidade devido a infecções respiratórias superiores em crianças menores de 5 anos, no serviço respiratório do Hospital Universitário Pediátrico "General Luis Ángel Milanés Tamayo", de janeiro a março de 2019. Métodos: foi realizado um estudo observacional, descritivo e transversal. O universo era composto por 172 crianças que ingressaram nesse período e a amostra após a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão foi composta por 74 crianças. O processamento dos dados foi realizado utilizando-se o programa EPIDAT versão 3.1, como processador de texto, métodos teóricos, empíricos e estatísticos. Resultados: crianças menores de 1 ano (51,3%), sexo masculino (64,8%), internação hospitalar foi geralmente inferior a 3 dias (64,8%) origem urbana (67,5%), rinofaringite aguda como a HAA mais frequente (74,3%) e exposiçãoao fumo de segunda mão como principal fator predisponente (56,7%). Conclusões: concluiu-se que no estudo predominaram as crianças menores de 1 ano, o sexo masculino, a internação hospitalar foi geralmente inferior a 3 dias, origem urbana, rinofaringite aguda como o HAIS mais frequente, exposição à fumaça passiva como principal fator de risco associado.

Pesquisa de virus respiratorios habituales en pacientes pediátricos ambulatorios, a dos años de la pandemia por COVID-19 / Screening for common respiratory viruses in pediatric outpatients 2 years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic

Introducción. Durante el 2020, la circulación de otros virus respiratorios fue inferior a lo acostumbrado. Es probable que, almodificarse las medidas de mitigación para la infección por el coronavirus 2019, dicha prevalencia haya aumentado en 2021. Objetivo. Estimar la prevalencia de virus respiratorioshabituales en pacientes de 0 a 5 años asistidos en Departamento de Urgencias de un hospital pediátrico de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires. Métodos. Estudio transversal con 348 pacientes que consultaronpor sospecha de enfermedad por el coronavirus 2019(COVID-19), en quienes se descartó dicha enfermedad y se realizó la pesquisa sistemática de virus respiratorios habitualesResultados. En el 40 % de los pacientes se identificó el virus sincicial respiratorio (VSR), un virus respiratorio habitual. La edad menor de 2 años se mostró como predictor independiente de VSR (razón de momios [OR]: 4,15; intervalos de confianza del 95 % [IC95 %]: 2,46-6,99). Conclusión. En la población estudiada, 40 % de los pacientes con sospecha de COVID-19 en quienes se descartó infección por SARS-CoV-2 presentaban infección por VSR.

Introduction. During 2020, circulation of other respiratory viruses was lower than usual. Most likely, as mitigation measures for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were modified, their prevalence in 2021 may have increased. Objective. To estimate the prevalence of common respiratory viruses among patients aged 0­5 years seen at the Emergency Department of a children's hospital in the City of Buenos Aires. Methods. Cross-sectional study of 348 patients consulting for suspected COVID-19 in whom SARS-CoV-2 infection was ruled out and routine screening for common respiratory viruses was performed. Results. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common respiratory virus, was identified in 40% of patients. Age younger than 2 years was an independent predictor of RSV (odds ratio [OR]: 4.15; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.46­6.99). Conclusion. In the study population, 40% of patients suspected of COVID-19 in whom SARS-CoV-2 infection was ruled out had RSV infection.

Validación del instrumento para medir los factores ambientales asociados a neumonía en niños menores de 5 años / Validation of the instrument to measure environmental factors associated with pneumonia in children under 5 years of age

La neumonía es una infección respiratoria que afecta a los pulmones y puede llevar a la muerte. Los niños menores de 5 años pueden adquirir la enfermedad a través de bacterias, virus y hongos, lo cual puede generarse por ciertos factores ambientales no propicios. Objetivos: Validar el instrumento para medir los factores ambientales asociados a neumonía en niños menores de 5 años que acuden a consulta externa del hospital Martin Icaza del Cantón Babahoyo, julio - diciembre 2020; determinar la confiabilidad del instrumento para medir los factores ambientales asociados a neumonía en niños menores de 5 años. Materiales y métodos: Se utiliza un diseño no experimental, con enfoque mixto, método deductivo, de tipo transversal, de campo, prospectivo. Se aplicó un plan piloto con el fin de identificar la validez, coherencia y pertinencia del instrumento, y a su vez determinar la confiabilidad del mismo con base al criterio de expertos. El componente cuantitativo constó de un plan piloto a 16 padres, donde 8 niños padecían neumonía, mientras los 8 restantes no; en tanto que la entrevista se realizó a dos representantes de niños con neumonía. Resultados: La validación de los instrumentos vino dada por tres profesionales que fueron seleccionados por su experiencia y prestigio, estos calificaron la validez, pertinencia y coherencia donde se obtuvo la ponderación de muy confiable. Los resultados mostraron que la enfermedad se transmite por contacto con personas que padecen estas enfermedades (62.5%), los principales síntomas son la tos, fiebre y dolor de garganta (50.0%), las personas viven con 4 o 5 personas en la misma casa (56.3%) y poseen animales (75.0%). Se identificó efectos emocionales negativos, tales como desesperación, ansiedad, tristeza, depresión e impotencia. Conclusión: El instrumento analizado es válido, coherente y pertinente, siendo muy confiable para su aplicación(AU)

Pneumonia is a respiratory infection that affects the lungs and can lead to death. Children under 5 years of age can acquire the disease through bacteria, viruses and fungi, which can be generated by certain unfavorable environmental factors. Objectives: To validate the instrument to measure the environmental factors associated with pneumonia in children under 5 years of age who attend the outpatient clinic of the Martin Icaza hospital in Babahoyo Canton, July - December 2020; determine the reliability of the instrument to measure the environmental factors associated with pneumonia in children under 5 years of age. Materials and methods: A non-experimental design is used, with a mixed approach, deductive method, cross-sectional, field, prospective. A pilot plan was applied in order to identify the validity, coherence and relevance of the instrument, and in turn determine its reliability based on expert criteria. The quantitative component consisted of a pilot plan for 16 parents, where 8 children suffered from pneumonia, while the remaining 8 did not; while the interview was conducted with two representatives of children with pneumonia. Results: The validation of the instruments was given by three professionals who were selected for their experience and prestige, they qualified the validity, relevance and coherence where the weighting of very reliable was obtained. The results showed that the disease is transmitted by contact with people suffering from these diseases (62.5%), the main symptoms are cough, fever and sore throat (50.0%), people live with 4 or 5 people in the same house (56.3%) and own animals (75.0%). Negative emotional effects were identified, such as despair, anxiety, sadness, depression and helplessness. Conclusion: The analyzed instrument is valid, coherent and pertinent, being very reliable for its application(AU)

Clinical Profile of COVID-19 Illness in Children—Experience from a Tertiary Care Hospital

Objective To detail clinical profle and outcome in children infected with SARS-CoV-2. Methods This retrospective study was undertaken at a tertiary care pediatric teaching hospital in Northern India. The data on clinical characteristics and outcome of children (<18 y) with COVID-19 illness from April 2020–October 2020 were reviewed and analyzed. Results A total of 2919 children with suspected severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) illness were tested for novel COVID-19 virus in the fu emergency (n=1744), severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) ward (n=825), and non-COVID area (n=350) of the hospital. 8.73% (255/2919) children tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Of the 255 positive cases, 144 (56.47%) were managed on an outpatient basis and 100 (59 boys) required admission in COVID ward. The mortality rate of patients with SARS-CoV-2 was 11.4% (29/255). Majority of children admitted with COVID-19 had severe to critical illness due to the presence of malnutrition and underlying comorbidities. Conclusions Children of all age groups were susceptible to COVID-19 illness with a slight male preponderance. Amongst infected, two-third were asymptomatic or had mild symptoms that required outpatient management and home isolation. The adverse outcomes were more commonly seen in infants and children>10 y of age with malnutrition and comorbid illness.

Analysis of the prevalence of common respiratory pathogens in children in Beijing in 2020 / 中华微生物学和免疫学杂志

Objective:To investigate the changes in epidemiological characteristics of common respiratory pathogens in children in Beijing during COVID-19 epidemic.Methods:A total of 9 728 serum samples were collected from cases of acute respiratory infections in Beijing Children′s Hospital from January 2020 to December 2020. Indirect immunofluorescence antibody test was performed to detect IgM antibodies against eight common respiratory pathogens and the test results were statistically analyzed. The eight common respiratory pathogens were influenza virus A (FluA), influenza virus B (FluB), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), adenovirus (ADV), parainfluenza virus (PIV), Mycoplasma pneumoniae ( Mp), Chlamydia pneumoniae ( Cp) and Legionella pneumophila ( Lp). Results:The detection rate of respiratory pathogens in 9 728 cases was 41.71% (4 058/9 728) and respiratory viruses (FluA, FluB, RSV, ADV and PIV) accounted for 46.18%(2 343/5 074)of all detected pathogens. Mp, FluB and FluA accounted for 84.73%(4 299/5 074)of all detected pathogens, and the detection rates were 24.27% (2 361/9 728), 11.49% (1 118/9 728) and 8.43% (820/9 728), respectively. There were 846 cases positive for two kinds of pathogens, and the most common co-infection was Mp and FluB. The detection rates in male and female were 37.56% (2 089/5 562) and 47.26% (1 969/4 166), respectively. There were significant differences in the total detection rate and the positive rates of PIV and Mp between different sexes ( P<0.05). The detection rate in school-age children (6-12 years old) was the highest (52.26%, 1 535/2 937). The detection rates of respiratory pathogens in different months ranged from 30.12% (203/674) to 49.81% (268/538) with higher rates in autumn and winter [42.45% (1 304/3 072) and 43.29% (1 618/3 738)]. The detection rates of FluA and FluB were higher in summer [11.46% (195/1 701)] and winter [14.63% (547/3738)], respectively. Most of RSV infection occurred in summer [1.35% (23/1 701)], and Mp could be detected all year round, especially in winter and spring [27.21% (1 017/3 738) and 25.64% (312/1 217)]. The detection rate of respiratory pathogens in outpatient group was higher than that in inpatient group [46.48% (1 583/3 406) vs 39.15% (2 475/6 322)]. The detection rate in severe cases was 26.10% (71/272). The detection rates of total pathogens, FluB and Mp were higher in outpatients than in inpatients and the differences were statistically significant ( P<0.05). The detection rates of FluA, PIV and ADV were higher in inpatients than in outpatients and the differences were statistically significant ( P<0.05). The detection rates of total pathogens, FluB and Mp in mild cases were significantly higher than those in severe cases and the differences were statistically significant ( P<0.05). The detection rate of RSV in severe cases was significantly higher than that in mild cases and the difference was statistically significant ( P<0.05). Conclusions:The protective measures taken during the period of regular prevention and control of COVID-19 epidemic could better prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, having a certain impact on the population susceptible to respiratory pathogens and typical seasonal patterns, but had little effect on the prevention and control of Mp. New protective measures needed to be studied to prevent Mp infection in children during epidemical season.

Clinical and gene mutation features of cystic fibrosis: an analysis of 8 cases / 中国当代儿科杂志

OBJECTIVES@#To study the clinical features and gene mutation sites of children with cystic fibrosis (CF), in order to improve the understanding of CF to reduce misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis.@*METHODS@#A retrospective analysis was performed on the medical records of 8 children with CF who were diagnosed in Hebei Children's Hospital from 2018 to 2021.@*RESULTS@#Among the 8 children with CF, there were 5 boys and 3 girls, with an age of 3-48 months (median 8 months) at diagnosis, and the age of onset ranged from 0 to 24 months (median 2.5 months). Clinical manifestations included recurrent respiratory infection in 7 children, sinusitis in 3 children, bronchiectasis in 4 children, diarrhea in 8 children, fatty diarrhea in 3 children, suspected pancreatic insufficiency in 6 children, pancreatic cystic fibrosis in 1 child, malnutrition in 5 children, and pseudo-Bartter syndrome in 4 children. The most common respiratory pathogens were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (4 children). A total of 16 mutation sites were identified by high-throughput sequencing, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification, and Sanger sequencing, including 5 frameshift mutations, 4 nonsense mutations, 4 missense mutations, 2 exon deletions, and 1 splice mutation. CFTR mutations were found in all 8 children. p.G970D was the most common mutation (3 children), and F508del mutation was observed in one child. Four novel mutations were noted: deletion exon15, c.3796_3797dupGA(p.I1267Kfs*12), c.2328dupA(p.V777Sfs*2), and c.2950G>A(p.D984N).@*CONCLUSIONS@#p.G970D is the most common mutation type in children with CF. CF should be considered for children who have recurrent respiratory infection or test positive for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with or without digestive manifestations or pseudo-Bartter syndrome.

Association of temperament type and mother's emotional state with acute respiratory infection in children / 南方医科大学学报

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the correlation of temperament type and mother's emotional state with acute respiratory tract infections in children so as to provide evidence for comprehensive treatment of the infections.@*METHODS@#A total of 200 children aged between 3 and 6 were enrolled in this study from two kindergartens of Guangzhou and Hengyang. The mothers were invited to complete a questionnaire of the children's general information followed by assessment using children's temperament scale and the Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale.@*RESULTS@#The total incidence of acute respiratory infection was significantly higher in children with a hard- to-raise temperament than the easy- to-raise children (P < 0.05); the incidences of acute rhinitis, acute pharyngitis, acute laryngitis and acute bronchitis were all significantly higher in the hard-to-raise children (P < 0.05). A significant positive correlation was identified between the total number of episodes of acute respiratory tract infection in children and their mothers' stress and anxiety levels (P < 0.01). Acute rhinitis and acute tracheitis in the children were both positively correlated with the mothers' stress scores (P < 0.05), while acute pharyngitis and acute laryngitis were positively correlated with the mothers' anxiety scores (P < 0.05), while acute bronchitis was positively correlated with the mothers' stress and anxiety scores (P < 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis with the factors influencing the types of acute respiratory tract infections in children as the independent variables suggested that the easy-to-raise type of temperament was a protective factor against acute rhinitis in children (P < 0.05), while mothers' anxiety was a risk factor of acute laryngitis in children (P < 0.05); the mothers' stress was a risk factor for acute bronchitis in children (P < 0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#Acute respiratory tract infection in children is closely related to the temperament type of the children and the emotional state of the mothers, which are important therapeutic targets in comprehensive interventions of acute respiratory tract infection in children.

Research progress of nasal mucosal immunization vaccine against COVID-19 / 中国药科大学学报

@#Respiratory mucosal immune system is the body''s first line of defense against infection.Since the outbreak of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in 2019,nasal mucosal immune vaccine, with its ability to induce cellular, humoral and mucosal triple immune responses, has become a research hotspot.This article focuses on novel coronavirus, with an understanding of its structure and pathogenesis, a brief introduction to the immune mechanism of nasal mucosa, a summary of the different types of nasal mucosal immune vaccines and their clinical research, aiming to provide some theoretical reference for the development of new vaccines, and exploration of the best methods and strategies to combat COVID-19.

Infecciones respiratorias agudas virales en pacientes menores de 5 años hospitalizados / Viral acute respiratory infections in hospitalized patients under 5 years

Introducción: Los virus constituyen las causas más frecuentes de infección respiratoria aguda, aunque el diagnóstico causal suele ser empírico dada la complejidad de su aislamiento. Objetivo: Caracterizar a pacientes menores de 5 años de edad con infecciones respiratorias agudas, según variables epidemiológicas, clínicas e imagenológicas. Métodos: Se efectuó una investigación descriptiva y transversal de 171 pacientes con infecciones respiratorias agudas y aislamiento viral mediante exudado nasofaríngeo profundo, egresados del Servicio de Neonatología del Hospital Docente Infantil Sur Antonio María Béguez César de Santiago de Cuba, desde el 2014 hasta el 2016, para lo cual se realizaron cálculos de frecuencias y porcentajes. Resultados: Predominaron los lactantes (57,9 %), el sexo masculino y los afectados con diagnósticos de neumonía (40,9 %) y bronquiolitis (28,0 %) por virus sincitial respiratorio y rinovirus. La supresión precoz de lactancia materna y tabaquismo fueron los factores de riesgo prevalentes. Tanto la fiebre como la tos y las secreciones nasales resultaron preponderantes, e infrecuentes las complicaciones. La consolidación alveolar prevaleció en pacientes con neumonía. Conclusiones: Se caracterizó epidemiológica y clínicamente a los pacientes con virus respiratorios y se evidenció discordancia con el predominio del patrón de infiltrado alveolar descrito en la bibliografía médica consultada.

Introduction: Viruses constitute the most frequent causes in acute respiratory infection, although the causal diagnosis is usually empiric given the complexity of its isolation. Objective: To characterize patients under 5 years with acute respiratory infections, according to epidemiological, clinical and imaging variables. Methods: A descriptive and cross-sectional investigation of 171 patients with acute respiratory infections and viral isolation was carried out by means of deep nasopharyngeal swab. They were discharged from the Neonatology Service of Antonio María Béguez César Southern Children Teaching Hospital in Santiago de Cuba, from 2014 to 2016, for which calculations of frequencies and percentages were carried out. Results: There was a prevalence of infants (57.9 %), the male sex and those affected patients with diagnosis of pneumonia (40.9 %) and bronchiolitis (28.0 %) due to respiratory syncytial virus and rhinovirus. The early suppression of breast feeding and nicotine addiction were the prevalent risk factors. Both fever and cough and the nasal secretions were preponderant, and the complications were infrequent. The alveolar consolidation prevailed in patients with pneumonia. Conclusions: Patients with respiratory virus were clinically and epidemiologically characterized and conflict with the pattern prevalence of alveolar infiltrates described in the consulted medical literature was evidenced.

Asociación entre hipoplasia del timo y disminución de inmunoglobulina A / Association between thymus hypoplasia and immunoglobulin A reduction

El sistema inmune madura gradualmente durante la infancia y el nacimiento es un momento crucial para este proceso. El paso por el canal del parto es el primer estímulo que el sistema inmunitario percibe para comenzar así su maduración progresiva. El timo como órgano linfoide primario, es el primero en aparecer entre todos los órganos linfoides; en este órgano ocurre la ontogenia, diferenciación y maduración de los linfocitos T que migran a los órganos linfoides secundarios como linfocitos T inmunocompetentes. La producción de IgA por los linfocitos B es uno de los mecanismos esenciales de respuesta inmune de las mucosas a las que protege en su forma de IgA secretoria. En el Instituto de Hematología e Inmunología, se atendieron en consulta 62 pacientes pediátricos entre uno y cinco años de edad, con antecedentes de infecciones respiratorias agudas frecuentes, con dos o más episodios en un mes, a los que se les diagnosticó por ultrasonografía una disminución del área tímica (hipoplasia). De ellos, 50 por ciento presentó además disminución de la concentración de IgA en suero. Estos resultados sugieren múltiples interrogantes. Consecuentemente, este trabajo tiene como objetivo presentar la asociación hallada entre la disminución del tamaño del timo y la disminución de la concentración en suero de IgA, en un grupo de niños de uno a cinco años, con antecedentes de infecciones respiratorias frecuentes, consultados en el Instituto de Hematología e Inmunología durante un año(AU)

The immune system gradually matures during childhood, and birth is a crucial moment in this process. Transit through the birth canal is the first stimulus perceived by the immune system to start its progressive maturation. The thymus, a primary lymphoid organ as it is, is the first lymphoid organ to appear. It is the site of the ontogeny, differentiation and maturation of the T-lymphocytes migrating to secondary lymphoid organs as immunocompetent T-lymphocytes. IgA production by B-lymphocytes is one of the essential immune response actions performed by mucosas, which they protect in the form of secretory IgA. A study was conducted of 62 pediatric patients aged 1-5 years attending consultation at the Institute of Hematology and Immunology who had a history of frequent acute respiratory infection, with two or more episodes in one month. These patients were ultrasonographically diagnosed with thymus size reduction (hypoplasia). Among them, 50 percent also presented a decrease in serum IgA concentration. These results pose many questions concerning the association between thymus hypoplasia and IgA reduction. The purpose of the study was therefore to present the association found between thymus size reduction and serum IgA concentration decrease in a group of children aged 1-5 years with a history of frequent respiratory infection attending the Institute of Hematology and Immunology during one year(AU)

Papel de la alimentación en la respuesta a infecciones respiratorias altas en atletas de élite / Role of nutrition in the response to upper respiratory infections in elite athletes

Las infecciones de las vías respiratorios altas (IVRA), son debilitantes para el potencial deportivo de los atletas de élite. El ejercicio físico activa múltiples vías moleculares y bioquímicas relacionadas con el sistema inmune, sensibles a influencias nutricionales. Sobre este contexto, la inmunonutrición está adquiriendo una nueva dirección orientada a conseguir el equilibrio inmunológico, contraponiéndose con algunas de las teorías que han sentado las bases de la inmunología del ejercicio durante las últimas décadas. Objetivo. Investigar los aspectos nutricionales que puedan mejorar la respuesta inmunológica en deportistas de elite. Estudiar los posibles beneficios del equilibrio inmunológico para mejorar el rendimiento, analizar los factores nutricionales que contribuyan al equilibrio de la respuesta inmunológica y extrapolar la evidencia actual en recomendaciones prácticas de alimentación/suplementación para mejorar la homeostasis de la respuesta inmunológica en atletas de élite, teniendo en cuenta las limitaciones existentes.Resultados. La evidencia científica apunta que se puede potenciar el equilibrio inmunológico y la respuesta inmune a través de la modificación de factores nutricionales. Dentro de los cuales, la vitamina D, los probióticos, la vitamina C y el cinc son los que cuentan con mayor evidencia. Conclusión. Los avances científicos resultan prometedores y de interés para los atletas de élite, debido a que pueden disminuir la incidencia de IVRA, mejorando el éxito deportivo de los mismos. Se requieren más estudios para su validación y aplicación(AU)

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) are debilitating for the athletic potential of elite athletes. Physical exercise in elite athletes activates multiple molecular and biochemical pathways related to the immune system, which, at the same time, are sensitive to nutritional influences. Based on this context, immunonutrition is taking a new direction aimed at achieving the immunological balance. Objective. To investigate the nutritional aspects that can improve the immune response in elite athletes. To study the potential benefits of immune balance to improve performance, to analyse nutritional factors that contribute to the balance of the immune response and to extrapolate current evidence into practical dietary/supplementation recommendations to improve the homeostasis of the immune response in elite athletes, considering existing limitations. Results. Scientific evidence suggests that immune balance and immune response can be enhanced through the modification of nutritional factors. Among which, vitamin D, probiotics, vitamin C and zinc are the micronutrients with most evidence. Conclusion. Scientific advances in this field are promising and of great interest to elite athletes since it could decrease the incidence of URTI and, as a consequence, it could improve their sporting success. However, more studies are still required for its validation and application(AU)

Vulnerabilidad de la Covid-19 por estratificación epidemiológica en policlínicos de Arroyo Naranjo, La Habana / Covid-19 vulnerability due to epidemiological stratification at community clinics in Arroyo Naranjo, Havana

Introducción: El SARS-CoV-2 es un coronavirus nuevo poco conocido, su puerta de entrada es la respiratoria. La vulnerabilidad espacial establece grados de riesgos para contraer la enfermedad, esto permite aplicar intervenciones radicales y diferentes, necesarias para enfrentar la pandemia. Objetivo: Determinar la vulnerabilidad espacial de la Covid-19 en policlínicos de Arroyo Naranjo, La Habana. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y transversal. Las siete áreas de salud del municipio Arroyo Naranjo. Con una población territorial. Se estudiaron adultos de 60 años y más, casos positivos y mortalidad por Covid-19, con infección respiratoria aguda, sintomatología y vulnerabilidad espacial. Los policlínicos se estratificaron en contextos vulnerables, medianamente vulnerables y menos vulnerables. La estratificación epidemiológica se realizó mediante el método de indicadores con ponderación fija, establecidos según criterios de expertos. Los datos se obtuvieron del departamento de estadística de los policlínicos y de la pesquisa diaria. Resultados: Los policlínicos estratificados como de contexto menos vulnerable fueron Capri, Managua y Eléctrico; mientras que como contexto medianamente vulnerable fueron Los Pinos, Mantilla y Grimau y de contexto vulnerable resultó el policlínico Párraga. Conclusiones: Existieron contextos vulnerables en el territorio, con una influencia negativa de los indicadores no bien controlados que favorecen la aparición de la Covid-19, lo que expresa el peligro de contraer la enfermedad o de un rebrote(AU)

Introduction: SARS-CoV-2 is a little-known new coronavirus, its entry point is the respiratory way. The spatial vulnerability establishes degrees of risks to contract the disease, this allows the application of radical and different interventions, necessary to face the pandemic. Objective: To determine Covid-19 spatial vulnerability at polyclinics in Arroyo Naranjo, Havana. Method: A descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out in the seven health areas at Arroyo Naranjo municipality, with territorial population. We studied adults aged 60 years and over, positive cases and mortality from Covid-19, with acute respiratory infection, symptoms and spatial vulnerability. The community clinics were stratified into vulnerable, moderately vulnerable and lesser vulnerable contexts. Epidemiological stratification was carried out using the method of indicators with fixed weights, established according to expert criteria. Data were obtained from the statistics department of the clinics and from the daily survey. Results: The community clinics stratified as having less vulnerable context were Capri, Managua and Eléctrico; while Los Pinos, Mantilla and Grimau were a moderately vulnerable context and Párraga clinic resulted as a vulnerable context. Conclusions: There were vulnerable contexts in the territory, with a negative influence of poorly controlled indicators that favor the appearance of Covid-19, which expresses the danger of contracting the disease or a regrowth(AU)

Rapid detection of Respiratory Pathogens using a Multiplex PCR assay among hospitalized children with Acute Respiratory Infection

Background@#Acute respiratory infection (ARI) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among children worldwide however, local data on the etiologic diagnosis of ARI are limited. @*Objectives@#To determine the prevalence and the most commonly detected respiratory pathogens using a multiplex PCR assay, known as the Respiratory Panel, among hospitalized children with ARI and compare their clinical and laboratory differences. @*Methods@#This is a cross sectional study of children with ARI who were tested with a multiplex PCR assay. Retrospective chart review was done on these patients admitted from January 2018 to February 2020. @*Results@#There were 47 charts reviewed, mean age was 4.2 years old. Out of 47 patients, 36 (76.6%) tested positive for a pathogen. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) being the most common followed by Influenza A/H1-2009 and Human metapneumovirus (hMPV). Two patients had viral co-infections and no bacteria were detected on all subjects. 61.7% patients were started on antibiotics on admission. Fever and cough were the most common sign and symptom, respectively. Normal WBC (68% with neutrophilic predominance) and platelet were detected in 72.3% and 70.2% of patients, respectively; 50% of patients had normal CRP and 60.5% had abnormal findings on chest x-ray. Only the presence of chest x-ray findings was found to have a higher probability of yielding a positive Respiratory Panel p=0.27. @*Conclusion@#Among admitted patients with ARI, 76.6% tested positive for a respiratory pathogen. All were caused by viruses presenting as nonspecific manifestations – fever and cough. Clinical manifestations, CBC and CRP showed no association with the Respiratory Panel result while abnormal chest x-ray had a higher probability of yielding a positive Respiratory Panel result.