Blasting the myth of predictive INR changes related to plasma transfusion: an academic institution's experience

Abstract Introduction Plasma transfusion is a common therapeutic strategy used to lower international normalized ratio (INR) values in the non-emergent setting. However, due to lack of evidence of its efficacy, standardized guidelines for this practice have not been well established. Methods This retrospective observational cohort study analyzed 276 inpatient encounters that involved plasma transfusions focusing on change in INR values from pre- to post-transfusion, with respect to the following predictor variables: vitamin K co-administration, number of plasma units transfused, order indication and body mass index (BMI). Results The overall average change in the INR was 1.35. Patients who received vitamin K showed an average change of 2.51, while patients that did not receive vitamin K demonstrated an average change of 0.70. Increased numbers of plasma units transfused showed benefit up to three-unit orders. Greater decreases in the INR were observed for patients requiring plasma for anticoagulation reversal or active bleeding. There was no significant difference in the change in INR based on the BMI. By multivariate and regression analyses, the stepwise addition of each successive predictor variable demonstrated an increase in the shared variance in the outcome of the post-transfusion INR: the pre-transfusion INR and vitamin K co-administration alone was not significant (p= 0.45); the additional number of plasma units transfused was significant (R² = 0.13, p < 0.001), and; the subsequent additional plasma order indications (R² = 0.19, p < 0.001) and BMI (R² = 0.18, p < 0.001) were increasingly significant. Conclusion Taking into consideration the combination of multiple predictive factors may aid in a more efficient use of plasma products.

Comparación del desempeño de dos pruebas para la evaluación del neurodesarrollo infantil en un hospital pediátrico de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires / Comparison of the performance of two tests for the assessment of child neurodevelopment in a children's hospital in the City of Buenos Aires

Introducción. La detección precoz de los trastornos del desarrollo permite aplicar acciones que mejoren su evolución y pronóstico. En nuestro país, la Prueba Nacional de Pesquisa (PRUNAPE) requiere de un profesional certificado. El Instrumento de Observación del Desarrollo Infantil (IODI) es una herramienta de vigilancia sistematizada del desarrollo que no requiere especialización para su aplicación. La utilización del IODI como herramienta de evaluación del neurodesarrollo sería de utilidad por su fácil aplicabilidad. Objetivo. Evaluar el desempeño del IODI como prueba de vigilancia de trastornos del desarrollo utilizando la PRUNAPE como patrón de oro. Población y métodos. Estudio prospectivo analítico de prueba diagnóstica. Se incluyeron de forma aleatoria pacientes de 1 mes a 4 años, cuyos padres dieron el consentimiento para participar. Se evaluó el desempeño del IODI usando la PRUNAPE como patrón de oro. Se estimaron los valores de clivaje de sensibilidad (S), especificidad (E), valores predictivos positivo y negativo (VPP y VPN), y las razones de verosimilitud positiva y negativa (RVP y RVN, respectivamente). Resultados. Se evaluaron 91 pacientes; 24 no pasaron la PRUNAPE, de los cuales 21 tampoco pasaron el IODI (sensibilidad: 87,5 %; especificidad: 79,1 %; valor predictivo positivo: 60,1 %; valor predictivo negativo: 94,6 %). Razón de verosimilitud positiva: 4,2; negativa: 0,2. Conclusión. El IODI mostró un desempeño aceptable como prueba de vigilancia de trastornos del desarrollo en comparación con la PRUNAPE.

Introduction. An early detection of developmental disorders allows to implement actions to improve their course and prognosis. In Argentina, the administration of the National Screening Test (Prueba Nacional de Pesquisa, PRUNAPE) requires a certified professional. The Child Development Observation Instrument (Instrumento de Observación del Desarrollo Infantil, IODI) is a systematized developmental surveillance tool that does not require specialization for its administration. The use of the IODI as a neurodevelopmental assessment tool would be useful because of its easy applicability. Objective. To assess the performance of the IODI as a surveillance test for developmental disorders using the PRUNAPE as a gold standard. Population and methods. Analytical, prospective study with a diagnostic test. Patients aged 1 month to 4 years, whose parents gave consent to participate, were included randomly. The IODI performance was assessed using the PRUNAPE as the gold standard. Sensitivity (S), specificity (Sp), positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV), and positive and negative likelihood ratios (PLR and NLR) were estimated. Results. Ninety-one patients were assessed; 24 failed the PRUNAPE, of these, 21 also failed the IODI (S: 87.5%, Sp: 79.1%, PPV: 60.1%, NPV: 94.6%). PLR: 4.2, NLR: 0.2. Conclusion. The IODI showed an acceptable performance as a developmental disorders surveillance test compared to the PRUNAPE.

Detección rápida de antígenos de Streptococcus pyogenes en pacientes de 0 a 14 años asistidos en dos servicios de urgencia pediátrica (14/2/2018-13/4/2018) / Rapid detection of Streptococcus pyogenes' antigens in patients of 0 to 14 years of age, assisted in two pediatric emergency wards (2/14/2018-4/13/2018) / Detecção rápida de antígenos de Streptococcus pyogenes em pacientes de 0 a 14 anos de idade assistidos por emergência pediátrica (14/2/2018-13/4/2018)

Introducción: las infecciones estreptocócicas pueden presentarse con fiebre, inflamación faringoamigdalina con o sin exudados, petequias en el paladar, adenitis cervical, exantema escarlatiniforme y / o dolor abdominal. Resulta útil en área de urgencia disponer de pruebas de detección rápida de antígenos de S. pyogenes (DRASP) de alta especificidad y sensibilidad algo menor. Objetivos: conocer la utilidad de un test de DRASP en 2 servicios de Urgencia Pediátrica, describiendo las características clínicas y epidemiológicas de los pacientes estudiados durante el período de la investigación y su correlación con el cultivo de exudado faríngeo mediante el cálculo de sensibilidad (S), especificidad (E), valor predictivo positivo (VPP) y valor predictivo negativo (VPN). Material y métodos: estudio prospectivo, observacional, transversal en dos servicios de emergencia pediátrica. Se incluyeron niños a los que se les realizó DRASP y exudado faríngeo (EF) entre el 14 de febrero y el 13 de abril de 2018. Se registró: sexo, edad, motivo de consulta, diagnóstico, tratamiento, destino, resultado del test y de cultivo faríngeo. Se calcularon S, E, VPP y VPN. Resultados: n=241 niños. Rango 8 meses - 14 años, media 6 años. Consultaron por fiebre 103 niños (42,7%); por odinofagia 48, por erupción 11 y 47 por otros síntomas. Al 95% de los niños se le otorgó el alta. DRASP negativos 87,6% (N: 211) y positivos 12,9% (N: 31). EF negativos 80,1% (n: 193) y positivos para SßHGA en 13,7% (n: 33). La sensibilidad de la prueba fue del 52% y su especificidad del 93%. El VPP 55% y el negativo 92%. El diagnóstico más frecuente fue faringitis viral 132 (54,7%). Conclusiones: el test se aplicó fundamentalmente a escolares febriles, algunos con odinofagia. Contribuye a diferenciar en forma rápida la etiología y habilita a no usar antibióticos en caso de resultado negativo. Estos resultados avalan el uso de DRASP en la urgencia pediátrica.

Introduction: streptococcal infections can show fever, pharyngotonsillar inflammation with or without swabs, palatal petechiae, cervical adenitis, scarlatiniform rash and/or abdominal pain. Rapid detection tests for S. pyogenes antigens (DRASP) with high specificity and somewhat lower sensitivity are a useful at the Emergency Ward. Objectives: know the usefulness of a DRASP test in 2 Pediatric Emergency, describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of the patients studied during the research period and its correlation with the culture of pharyngeal exudates by calculating sensitivity (S) , specificity (S), positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV). Material and Methods: prospective, observational, cross-sectional study carried out in two pediatric emergency wards. We included children who underwent DRASP and pharyngeal swab (PS) between February 14 and April 13, 2018. The following data were recorded: sex, age, reason for consultation, diagnosis, treatment, destination, test results and throat cultures. S, S, PPV and NPV were calculated. Results: n=241 children. Range 8 months - 14 years, average 6 years. 103 children (42.7%) consulted due to fever; 48 due to sore throat, 11 due to rash and 47 due to other symptoms. 95% of children were discharged. DRASP negative 87.6% (N: 211) and positive 12.9% (N: 31). Negative EP 80.1% (n: 193) and positive for SßHGA in 13.7% (n: 33). The test sensitivity was 52% and specificity 93%. The PPV 55% and the negative 92%. The most frequent diagnosis was viral pharyngitis 132 (54.7%). Conclusions: the test was applied mainly to febrile schoolchildren, some with odynophagia. A quick etiology differentiation is helpful, since it prevents antibiotics from being used in the event of a negative result. These results support the use of DRASP in pediatric emergency wards.

Introdução: as infecções estreptocócicas manifestam-se com febre, inflamação faringotonsilar com ou sem exsudado, petéquias palatinas, adenite cervical, erupção cutânea escarlatiniforme e/ou dor abdominal. Nos serviços de emergência é útil realizar testes de detecção rápida para antígenos de S. pyogenes (DRASP) com alta especificidade e sensibilidade um pouco mais baixa Objetivos: conhecer a utilidade do teste DRASP em 2 Emergências Pediátricas, descrever as características clínicas e epidemiológicas dos pacientes estudados durante o período da pesquisa e sua correlação com a cultura de exsudatos faríngeos por meio do cálculo de sensibilidade (S) , especificidade (S), positivo valor preditivo (VPP) e valor preditivo negativo (VPN). Material e métodos: estudo prospectivo, observacional, transversal, realizado em duas unidades de emergência pediátrica. Foram incluídas crianças que realizaram DRASP e swab faríngeo (PS) entre 14 de fevereiro e 13 de abril de 2018. Foram registrados os seguintes dados: sexo, idade, motivo da consulta, diagnóstico, tratamento, destino, resultados de exames e culturas de garganta. S, S, VPP e VPN foram calculados. Resultados: n=241 crianças. Faixa 8 meses - 14 anos, média 6 anos. 103 crianças (42,7%) consultadas por febre; 48 por dor de garganta, 11 por erupção cutânea e 47 por outros sintomas. 95% das crianças receberam alta. DRASP negativo 87,6% (N: 211) e positivo 12,9% (N: 31). EP negativo 80,1% (n: 193) e positivo para SßHGA em 13,7% (n: 33). A sensibilidade do teste foi de 52% e a especificidade de 93%. O PPV 55% e o negativo 92%. O diagnóstico mais frequente foi faringite viral 132 (54,7%). Conclusões: o teste foi aplicado principalmente em escolares febris, alguns com odinofagia. A rápida diferenciação etiológica é útil, pois evita o uso de antibióticos em caso de resultado negativo. Esses resultados apoiam o uso do DRASP em enfermarias de emergência pediátrica.

Diseño y validación de una herramienta para la predicción de desenlaces adversos en pacientes con obstrucción intestinal por bridas: La escala HALVIC / Design and validation of a predicting adverse outcomes toll for patients with adhesive small bowel obstruction: HALVIC score

Introducción. La obstrucción intestinal por bridas representa una causa común de consulta a los servicios de urgencias, pero hay poca claridad sobre qué pacientes tienen mayor riesgo de desarrollar complicaciones. El objetivo de este estudio fue diseñar y validar una escala de predicción de riesgo de desenlaces adversos en pacientes con obstrucción intestinal por bridas. Métodos. Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo realizado a partir de la base de datos MIMIC-IV. Se incluyeron pacientes adultos admitidos al servicio de urgencias entre 2008 y 2019, con diagnóstico de obstrucción intestinal por bridas. El desenlace principal fue el compuesto de resección intestinal, ingreso a unidad de cuidados intensivos y mortalidad por cualquier causa. Se diseñó una escala de predicción de riesgo asignando un puntaje a cada variable. Resultados. Se incluyeron 513 pacientes, 63,7 % hombres. El desenlace compuesto se presentó en el 25,7 % de los casos. La edad, historia de insuficiencia cardiaca y enfermedad arterial periférica, nivel de hemoglobina, recuento de leucocitos e INR constituyeron el mejor modelo de predicción de estos desenlaces (AUC 0,75). A partir de este modelo, se creó la escala simplificada HALVIC, clasificando el riesgo del desenlace compuesto en bajo (0-2 puntos), medio (3-4 puntos) y alto (5-7 puntos). Conclusión. La escala HALVIC es una herramienta de predicción simple y fácilmente aplicable. Puede identificar de manera precisa los pacientes con obstrucción intestinal por bridas con alto riesgo de complicaciones, permitiendo el ajuste individualizado de las estrategias de manejo para mejorar los desenlaces

Introduction. Adhesive Small Bowel Obstruction (ASBO) represents a common cause of consultation to the emergency department. Currently there is little clarity about which patients with ASBO are at increased risk of developing complications, potentially benefiting from early surgical management. The present study aims to design and validate a risk prediction scale for adverse outcomes in patients with ASBO. Methods. Retrospective cohort study performed from the MIMIC-IV database between 2008 and 2019. Adult patients admitted to the emergency department with a diagnosis of ASBO were included. The primary outcome was the composite of bowel resection, intensive care unit admission, and all-cause mortality. A risk prediction scale was designed by assigning a score to each variable according to the measure of association obtained in the logistic regression model. All analyses were performed in R statistical software (version 3.5.3). Results. Five-hundred-thirteen patients were included (men 63.7%, median age: 61 years). Composite outcome was present in 25.7% of cases. Age, history of heart failure and peripheral arterial disease, hemoglobin level, leukocyte count, and INR were the best predictors of these outcomes (AUC 0.75). Based on this model, the simplified HALVIC scale was created, classifying the risk of the composite outcome as low (0-2 points), medium (3-4 points) and high (5-7 points). Conclussion. The HALVIC scale is presented as a simple and easily applicable predictive tool in the clinical setting, which can accurately identify patients with ASBO at high risk of complications, allowing the surgeon to adjust management strategies individually and potentially improving the outcomes of these patients

Pruebas diagnósticas de tamizaje / Diagnostic screening tests

Introducción. Las pruebas diagnósticas de tamizaje son aquellas pruebas que son capaces de identificar un factor de riesgo o mutaciones genéticas que predicen el inicio ulterior de la enfermedad, así como también las pruebas que ponen de manifiesto alteraciones estructurales de la enfermedad antes que la enfermedad progrese y se vuelva sintomática. Métodos. Se hizo una revisión de la literatura para establecer los fundamentos teóricos científicos que sustentan a las pruebas de diagnóstico de tamizaje y las condiciones y requisitos que se deben cumplir para introducirlas en el ámbito clínico o como programas de salud pública. Resultados. Se estableció la diferencia conceptual entre la detección precoz y el diagnóstico temprano y la diferencia entre tamizaje de prevalencia y tamizaje de incidencia. Se dieron a conocer las indicaciones y criterios científicos para la realización de las pruebas de tamizaje. Se puntualizó la importancia de la duración del tiempo de adelanto en la eficacia de las pruebas diagnósticas de detección precoz. Se argumentaron las razones por las cuales era necesario la realización de experimentos clínicos aleatorizados para evaluar la eficacia de las pruebas diagnósticas de detección precoz en la prevención secundaria de la enfermedad. Conclusiones. Las pruebas diagnósticas de tamizaje hacen posible la introducción de intervenciones en el ámbito de la prevención primaria, como también en el escenario de la prevención secundaria de las enfermedades.

Introduction. Screening diagnostic tests are those tests that help to identify a risk factor or genetic mutations that predict the subsequent onset of the disease, as well as tests that reveal structural alterations of the disease before the disease progresses and becomes symptomatic. Methods. A literature review was performed to establish the scientific theoretical fundamentals that support diagnostic screening tests and the conditions and requirements that must be met to introduce them in the clinical setting or as public health programs. Results. The conceptual difference between early detection and early diagnosis and the difference between prevalence screening and incidence screening was established. Indications and scientific criteria for conducting screening tests were presented. The importance of the duration of the lead time in the efficacy of early detection diagnostic tests was pointed out. The reasons why it was necessary to carry out a randomized clinical experiment to evaluate the efficacy of early detection diagnostic tests for early diagnosis in the secondary prevention of the disease were confronted. Conclusions. Screening diagnostic tests make it possible to introduce interventions in the field of primary prevention, as well as in the setting of secondary prevention of diseases.

Aporte de la centellografía con trazadores tecneciados fosfatados al diagnóstico de amiloidosis cardíaca / Contribution of scintigraphy with technetium phosphated tracers to the diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis / Contribuição da cintilografia com traçadores fosfatados com tecnécio para o diagnóstico de amiloidose cardíaca

Las amiloidosis son enfermedades causadas por el depósito patológico extracelular de un material proteico fibrilar e insoluble denominado amiloide, que puede estar vinculado a cadenas livianas (AL) o transtirretina (TTR). La amiloidosis cardíaca provoca una cardiomiopatía restrictiva de carácter progresivo caracterizada por falla cardíaca con función sistólica relativamente preservada, que se asocia a elevada mortalidad. Aunque el diagnóstico definitivo tradicionalmente se basa en la biopsia endomiocárdica, los avances en imagenología han mejorado su abordaje y la reciente introducción de terapias especificas permiten augurar cambios significativos en el pronóstico. El tratamiento difiere según el tipo de amiloide involucrado y su resultado depende de la instauración precoz de este, por lo cual resulta esencial un diagnóstico preciso y temprano. El centellograma cardíaco con fosfatos marcados (99mTc-PYP u otros), ampliamente disponible y de relativo bajo costo, se considera en la actualidad como una "biopsia molecular no invasiva" para el diagnóstico de la amiloidosis tipo ATTR, que debe ser usado en conjunto con la investigación de proteínas monoclonales en pacientes con sospecha clínica de la enfermedad.

Amyloidoses are diseases caused by the extracellular deposition of a fibrillar and insoluble protein material called amyloid, which can be linked either to light chains (AL) or transthyretin (TTR). Cardiac amyloidosis causes a progressive restrictive cardiomyopathy characterized by heart failure with relatively preserved systolic function, which is associated with high mortality. Although a definitive diagnosis is traditionally based on endomyocardial biopsy, advances in cardiac imaging have improved its approach, and the recent introduction of specific therapies predicts significant changes in prognosis. Since treatment differs according to the type of amyloid involved and the results depend on a prompt implementation, an accurate and early diagnosis is essential. Cardiac scintigraphy with labeled phosphates (99mTc-PYP or others), widely available and relatively inexpensive, is currently considered a "noninvasive molecular biopsy" for the diagnosis of ATTR type amyloidosis, which should be used in conjunction with investigation of monoclonal proteins in patients with clinical suspicion of the disease.

As amiloidoses são doenças causadas pela deposição patológica extracelular de um material proteico fibrilar e insolúvel, denominado amiloide, que pode estar ligado a cadeias leves (AL) ou transtirretina (TTR). A amiloidose cardíaca causa cardiomiopatia restritiva progressiva caracterizada por insuficiência cardíaca com função sistólica relativamente preservada, que está associada a alta mortalidade. Embora o diagnóstico definitivo seja tradicionalmente baseado na biópsia endomiocárdica, os avanços nos exames de imagem aprimoraram sua abordagem e a recente introdução de terapias específicas pode predizer mudanças significativas no prognóstico. O tratamento varia de acordo com o tipo de amiloide envolvida e seu resultado depende do início precoce, por isso um diagnóstico preciso e precoce é essencial. A cintilografia cardíaca com fosfatos marcados (99mTc-PYP ou outros), amplamente disponível e relativamente econômico, é atualmente considerada uma "biópsia molecular não invasiva" para o diagnóstico de amiloidose do tipo ATTR, que deve ser usada em conjunto com a investigação de proteínas monoclonais em pacientes com suspeita clínica da doença.

Tumor de ovario borderline: concordancia entre biopsia contemporánea y biopsia definitiva / Borderline tumor of the ovary: accuracy of intraoperative frozen section and definitive biopsy

OBJETIVO: Los tumores de ovario borderline (BOT) son un grupo de lesiones neoplásicas de origen epitelial del ovario que presentan características de tumores malignos, pero sin invasión del estroma, y se caracterizan por tener un buen pronóstico. El objetivo del estudio es determinar la concordancia diagnóstica entre biopsia contemporánea y definitiva de los BOT en nuestro centro hospitalario. MÉTODO: Se realizó un estudio analítico retrospectivo de corte transversal de las biopsias contemporáneas y definitivas de BOT en la base de datos de anatomía patológica del Hospital Padre Hurtado, entre los años 2010 y 2019. El análisis estadístico de concordancia se realizó mediante test de kappa. RESULTADOS: Se revisaron 4546 informes de biopsias entre los años 2010 y 2019. Se pesquisaron 163 tumores malignos de ovario, de los cuales 69 (42,33%) correspondieron a BOT. De estos, 39 fueron serosos (56,2%), 28 mucinosos (40,57%) y 2 (2,8%) de tipo endometrioide. El resultado de concordancia diagnóstica de BOT seroso es moderada, del 75,71% con un índice de kappa de 0,5143 (p = 0,000), y el de BOT mucinoso es débil, del 65,71% con un índice de kappa de 0,2398 (p = 0,0222). CONCLUSIONES: Los BOT corresponden a un gran porcentaje dentro de los tumores malignos del ovario, siendo el subtipo seroso el más común. La concordancia entre biopsia contemporánea y definitiva es de débil a moderada.

OBJECTIVE: Borderline ovarian tumors (BOT) are a group of neoplastic lesions of epithelial origin of the ovary that present characteristics of malignant tumors but without stromal invasion and are characterized by having a good prognosis. The objective of the study is to determine the concordance between frozen section and definitive biopsy of BOT in our hospital center. METHOD: A retrospective, cross-sectional analytical study of the frozen section and definitive BOT biopsies was performed in the pathological anatomy database of the Padre Hurtado Hospital during the years 2010 and 2019. The statistical and concordance analysis was performed using kappa tests. RESULTS: 4546 biopsy reports were reviewed during 2010 and 2018. A total of 163 malignant ovarian tumors were investigated, of which 69 (42%) corresponded to BOT. Of these, the most common subtypes were 39 (56.2%) serous, 28 (40.57%) mucinous and 2 (2.8%) endometroid. The concordance results of serous BOT is moderate, 75.71% with a kappa index of 0.5143 (p = 0.000), and mucinous BOT have fair concordance, 65.71% with a kappa index of 0.2398 (p = 0.0222). CONCLUSIONS: BOT correspond to a large percentage of malignant tumors of the ovary, with the serous subtype being the most common. The concordance between contemporary and definitive biopsy is between fair and moderate.

Parámetros del líquido amniótico para diagnóstico de respuesta inflamatoria en parto pretérmino / Amniotic fluid parameters for the diagnosis of inflammatory response in preterm delivery

OBJETIVO: Evaluar el rendimiento del Gram, la glucosa y los leucocitos en líquido amniótico para el diagnóstico de respuesta inflamatoria fetal y materna en pacientes con parto pretérmino. MÉTODO: Estudio de rendimiento de pruebas diagnósticas. Se incluyeron 63 pacientes a quienes se les realizó amniocentesis por sospecha de infección intraamniótica. Se estudió la placenta y se comparó con el Gram, la glucosa y el recuento de leucocitos en líquido amniótico para ver su relación con la respuesta inflamatoria. Se evaluaron la sensibilidad, la especificidad, las razones de verosimilitud (LR, likelihood ratio), los valores predictivos y el valor de kappa. RESULTADOS: Las pruebas con mejor rendimiento fueron en conjunto la glucosa 50/mm3 en líquido amniótico, con una especificidad del 94,3% (intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%]: 84,6-98,1), LR + 8,83 (IC95%: 2,5-31,2) y kappa de 0,48 (IC95%: 0,15-0,82). También se consideró la propuesta de un nuevo punto de corte para el recuento de leucocitos en líquido amniótico en la respuesta inflamatoria fetal. CONCLUSIONES: La combinación del recuento de leucocitos en líquido amniótico y los valores de glucosa mejora el rendimiento para el diagnóstico de respuesta inflamatoria fetal en comparación con la histopatología de la placenta, lo que proporciona información útil para el enfoque de los recién nacidos.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the performance of Gram, glucose and leukocytes in amniotic fluid for the diagnosis of fetal and maternal inflammatory response in patients with preterm delivery. METHOD: A diagnostic performance test study was carried out. Sixty-three patients with preterm labor were included who underwent amniocentesis due to suspected intra-amniotic infection. Histopathology of the placenta was studied and compared with the Gram result, glucose and leukocyte count in amniotic fluid, and their relationship with the maternal and fetal inflammatory response. Sensitivity, specificity, likelihood ratios, predictive values, and kappa were evaluated. RESULTS: The tests with the best performance were overall glucose 50/mm3 in amniotic fluid for the diagnosis of the fetal inflammatory response, with a specificity of 94.3% (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 84.6-98.1%), likelihood positive ratio 8.83 (95% CI: 2.5-31.2) and kappa of 0.48 (95% CI: 0.15-0.82). A new cut-off point for leukocyte count in amniotic fluid to diagnose fetal inflammatory response was proposed. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of amniotic fluid leukocyte count and amniotic fluid glucose values improves performance for the diagnosis of inflammatory response compared with placental histopathology, providing useful information for newborns approach.

Eficacia de la impronta citológica peritoneal para decidir cuándo detener los lavados peritoneales programados / Efficacy of Peritoneal Cytological Imprinting in Deciding When to Stop Scheduled Peritoneal Lavages

Introducción: La no existencia de un parámetro preestablecido que permita determinar el momento preciso para suspender los lavados peritoneales programados, conlleva a que muchas veces se realice un número insuficiente de ellos, o tal vez estos se prolonguen de forma innecesaria y aumentan las probabilidades de fallecimiento del paciente. Objetivo: Determinar la eficacia de la impronta citológica peritoneal para decidir cuándo detener los lavados peritoneales programados. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de exactitud diagnóstica, en una serie de casos, con recogida prospectiva de datos desde enero de 2010 hasta diciembre de 2014, en el Hospital Provincial Clínico-Quirúrgico Docente "Celia Sánchez Manduley. La muestra quedó conformada por 42 pacientes que fueron tratados por peritonitis secundaria persistente. Se clasificaron según cuatro categorías de correlación y se tomó como estándar de referencia a la biopsia por parafina. Resultados: Las muestras con inflamación aguda peritoneal y curación de la inflamación peritoneal se identificaron correctamente en 39/42 casos, por lo tanto, el porcentaje predictivo global de la impronta citológica fue del 92,86 por ciento. La sensibilidad en el diagnóstico de inflamación aguda peritoneal fue del 100 por ciento, la especificidad del 92,68 por ciento, el valor predictivo positivo fue del 24,99 por ciento y el valor predictivo negativo del 100 por ciento. Las razones de verosimilitudes positiva y negativa fueron 13,67 y 0, respectivamente. El coeficiente (κ) fue de 0,376. Conclusiones: La impronta citológica peritoneal constituye un método diagnóstico eficaz para descartar inflamación aguda peritoneal cuando el resultado es negativo y se consideró de gran utilidad para detener los lavados peritoneales programados(AU)

Introduction: The lack of a pre-established parameter that allows determining the precise moment to suspend the scheduled peritoneal lavages, often leads to performing insufficient number of them, or perhaps these are unnecessarily prolonged, increasing the probability of the patient´s death. Objective: To determine the efficacy of peritoneal cytological imprinting in deciding when to stop scheduled peritoneal lavages. Methods: A descriptive study of diagnostic accuracy was carried out, in a series of cases, with prospective data collection in the five-year period from 2010 to 2014 at Celia Sánchez Manduley Provincial Clinical-Surgical Teaching Hospital. The sample was made up of 42 patients who were treated for persistent secondary peritonitis. They were classified according to four correlation categories, taking paraffin biopsy as reference standard. Results: Samples with acute peritoneal inflammation and healing of peritoneal inflammation were correctly identified in 39/42 cases. Therefore, the global predictive percentage of the cytological imprint was 92.86 percent. The sensitivity in the diagnosis of acute peritoneal inflammation was 100 percent, the specificity was 92.68 percent, the positive predictive value was 24.99 percent, and the negative predictive value was 100 percent. The positive and negative likelihood ratios were 13.67 and 0, respectively. Cohen's kappa coefficient (κ) was 0.376. Conclusions: The peritoneal cytological imprint is an effective diagnostic method to rule out acute peritoneal inflammation when the result is negative and it was considered very useful to stop scheduled peritoneal lavages(AU)

Validation of the Grace Risk Score to Predict In-Hospital and 6-Month Post-Discharge Mortality in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome

Abstract Background The wide range of clinical presentations of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) makes it indispensible to use tools for risk stratification and for appropriate risks management; thus, the use of prognosis scores is recommended in the immediat clinical decision-making. Objective To validate the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) score as a predictor of in-hospital and 6-month post-discharge mortality in a population diagnosed with ACS. Methods This is a prospective cohort study of consecutive patients diagnosed with ACS between May and December 2018. GRACE scores were calculated, as well as their predictive value for in-hospital and 6-month post-discharge mortality. The validity of the model was assessed by two techniques: discriminative power using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and goodness-of-fit, using the Hosmer-Lemeshow (HL) test, at the 5% level of significance. Results A total of 160 patients were included, mean age 64 (±10.9) years; of which 60% were men. The risk model showed to have satisfactory ability to predict both in-hospital mortality, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.76 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.57-0.95; p = 0.014), and 6-month post-discharge mortality, with AUC of 0.78 (95%CI, 0.62-0.94), p = 0.002. The HL test indicated good-fit for both models of the GRACE score. Conclusion In this study, the GRACE risk score for predicting mortality was appropriately validated in patients with ACS, with good discriminative power and goodness-of-fit. The results suggest that the GRACE score is appropriate for clinical use in our setting.

Validación externa y reproducibilidad del cuestionario PUMA para el diagnóstico de EPOC en una población latinoamericana: validación externa del cuestionario PUMA / External validation and reproducibility of the PUMA questionnaire for the diagnosis of COPD in a Latin American population: external validation of the PUMA questionnaire

Resumen El uso de escalas de predicción clínica puede incrementar la detección temprana de enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC). Su rendimiento en población latinoamericana ha sido pobremente estudiado. Nuestro objetivo fue determinar la validez y reproducibilidad del cuestionario PUMA, como herramienta de tamización en atención primaria en población colombiana, mediante un estudio tipo corte transversal; donde se establecieron las características operativas del cuestionario, área bajo la curva de características operativas del receptor (ACOR) y el mejor punto de corte para esta población. 1.980 sujetos fueron incluidos en el análisis. La prevalencia de EPOC correspondió a 18,9%. La capacidad discriminatoria del cuestionario fue de 0,69 (IC95%: 0,66-0,72), para un punto de corte óptimo mayor de 5, con una sensibilidad del 60%, especificidad 66% y un valor predictivo negativo de 88%. La escala PUMA para tamizaje de pacientes en riesgo de EPOC tiene una capacidad discriminatoria moderada y una excelente reproducibilidad en la población estudiada.

The use of clinical prediction scales may increase the early detection of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The performance characteristics of these scales in the Latin American population is poorly studied. We aimed to evaluate validity and reproducibility of PUMA questionnaire as a screening tool in primary care in a Colombian population. A cross-sectional study was performed. Operational characteristics of the questionnaire, the area under the received operator curve (AUROC), and the best cut-off point of the score were calculated. 1,980 individuals were included in this analysis. Prevalence of COPD was 18.9%. AUROC of the questionary was 0.69 (CI95%: 0.66-0.72), with an optimal cut-off point greater than 5 (sensitivity 60%, specificity 66%); predictive negative value was 88%. PUMA's scale for the screening of patients at risk of COPD has a moderate accuracy and an excellent reproducibility in the studied population.

Correlation between the anatomical morphology of palatal rugae and sex / Correlación entre la morfología anatómica de las rugas palatinas y el sexo

SUMMARY: To investigate the correlation between the anatomical morphology of palatal rugae and sex. The study sample consisted of 120 students studying from Shanxi Medical University, of which 60 were females and 60 were males. The digital model of the palatal rugae was obtained by the 3 Shape TRIOS intraoral scanner. And the shapes of palatal rugae were recorded. Association between palatal rugae shape and sex were tested using Chi-square analysis. And logistic regression analysis (LRA) was carried out to calculate the accuracy of gender prediction using rugae shapes. There was a statistically significant difference between males and females in terms of the distribution of wavy and circular palate rugae. The use of logistic regression analysis obtained a sex predictive value of 65 % when all the rugae shapes were analyzed. Digital images of the palatal rugae morphology contribute to more accurate and convenient for data collection and transformation. It was found that rugae patterns can moderately identify the sex of the specific population when multivariate statistics such as LRA is applied. The palatal rugae morphology can be utilized as an assistant measure for sex identification.

RESUMEN: Investigar la correlación entre la morfología anatómica de las rugas palatinas y el sexo. En la muestra de este estudio se incluyeron 120 estudiantes de la Universidad Médica de Shanxi, (60 mujeres y 60 hombres). El modelo digital de las rugas palatinas se obtuvo mediante escáner intraoral 3 Shape TRIOS, y se registraron las formas de las rugas palatinas. La asociación entre la forma de las rugas palatinas y el sexo se evaluó mediante un análisis de Chi-cuadrado; para calcular la precisión de la predicción de sexo se llevó a cabo un análisis de regresión logística (ARL) Se observó una diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre hombres y mujeres en términos de la distribución de las rugas palatinas onduladas y circulares. El uso de análisis de regresión logística obtuvo un valor predictivo de sexo del 65 % cuando se analizaron todas las formas de las rugas. Las imágenes digitales de la morfología de las rugas palatinas contribuyen a una recopilación de datos más precisa. En este análisis se determinó que los patrones de rugas pueden identificar relativamente el sexo de una población específica, cuando se aplican estadísticas multivariadas como ARL. La morfología de las rugas palatinas se puede utilizar como medida de ayuda para la identificación de sexo.

Comparison between Bruce and ramp protocols for exercise testing in the diagnosis of myocardial ischemia

BACKGROUND: Exercise tests are an important tool in the investigation of myocardial ischemia. The ramp protocol has gained increasing importance in clinical practice because of the possibility of individualizing its exercise intensity. OBJECTIVE: To assess and compare the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of Bruce and ramp protocols for exercise testing in the diagnosis of myocardial ischemia considering myocardial perfusion scintigraphy as the reference standard. Secondary objectives included the assessment of hemodynamic profiles, functional capacity, and the incidence of arrhythmias in each of the protocols. METHODS: Participants underwent exercise testing using the ramp and Bruce protocols, and the tests' diagnostic power was assessed. For testing the difference between data provided by both protocols, we used a paired Student's t-test or Wilcoxon test, depending on the assumption of data normality. The level of significance adopted for all tests was 5%. RESULTS: The ramp protocol showed sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy values of 55.6%, 82.4%, and 76.7%, respectively, whereas the Bruce protocol had results of 77.8%, 64.7%, and 67.4%, respectively. The maximum heart rate and double product at peak exercise were significantly higher in the Bruce protocol (p = 0.043 and p = 0.040, respectively). No differences were observed between the incidence of arrhythmias in both protocols. CONCLUSION: The Bruce protocol presented higher sensitivity for detecting ischemia on the exercise test, while the ramp protocol presented higher specificity and accuracy.

Do biomarkers have predictive value in the treatment modality of the patients diagnosed with bowel obstruction?

SUMMARY OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the ability of the biomarkers to predict the surgery treatment and mortality in patients above 18 years of age who were hospitalized with the diagnosis of bowel obstruction from the emergency department. METHODS: This is a 2-year retrospective study. The patients' demographic data, laboratory parameters on admission to emergency department, treatment modalities, and the length of hospital stay were recorded. Patients were divided into two groups: conservative and surgical treatment. Statistical analysis was performed to investigate the value of biomarkers in predicting mortality and the need for surgery. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 22. RESULTS: A total of 179 patients were included in this study. Of these, 105 (58.7%) patients were treated conservative and 74 (41.3%) were treated operatively. The elevated procalcitonin (PCT) level, C-reactive protein, blood urea nitrogen-to-albumin ratio, and lactate-to-albumin ratio were significantly correlated with surgical treatment, length of hospital stay, and mortality. procalcitonin threshold value of 0.13 ng/mL was able to predict the need for surgical treatment, with a sensitivity of 79% and a specificity of 70.3%. Procalcitonin threshold value of 0.65 ng/mL was able to predict the mortality rate of the patients, with a sensitivity of 92.9% and a specificity of 78.1%. CONCLUSIONS: Biomarkers, especially procalcitonin, may be useful in bowel obstruction treatment management and may predict mortality.

Estudio morfométrico y ecuaciones de predicción del peso corporal en llamas (Lama glama) Ch'aku y Q'ara / Morphometric study and body weight prediction equations in llamas (Lama glama) Ch'aku and Q'ara

RESUMEN: En el estudio se utilizó una población de 180 llamas de ambos sexos (machos y hembras) clasificados por edades (dientes de leche; dos dientes y cuatro dientes). Se registraron datos del peso corporal y las siguientes medidas morfométricas: En la cabeza: Longitud de la cabeza (LC); ancho de cabeza (ACa) y longitud de oreja (LO). En el cuello: Longitud del cuello (LCU); Perímetro de cuello anterior (PCuA) y perímetro de cuello posterior (PCuP). En el tronco y extremidades: Altura a la cruz (AC); altura de la grupa (AGRU), diámetro dorso esternal (DDE), perímetro torácico (PT), longitud del cuerpo (LOCU), longitud de la cruz a la grupa (LCG), longitud de grupa (LGRU), perímetro de caña anterior (PCA); perímetro de caña posterior (PCP). Los datos fueron procesados utilizando el software estadístico R. Concluyendo que los rasgos de conformación en llamas (Lama glama) Ch'aku y Q'ara están influenciados por la edad, sexo y raza. Los modelos de regresión simple y múltiple para la predicción del peso corporal fueron significativos.

SUMMARY: The study used a population of 180 llamas of both sexes (males and females) classified by age (milk teeth; two teeth and four teeth). Body weight data and the following morphometric measurements were recorded: Head: Head length (CL); head width (ACa) and ear length (LO). On the neck: Neck length (LCU); anterior neck circumference (PCuA) and posterior neck circumference (PCuP). On the trunk and limbs: Height at withers (AC); height at rump (AGRU), sternal dorsal diameter (DDE), thoracic perimeter (PT), body length (LOCU), length from withers to rump (LCG), rump length (LGRU), anterior canine perimeter (PCA); posterior canine perimeter (PCP). The data were processed using R statistical software. It was concluded that conformation traits in Ch'aku and Q'ara llamas (Lama glama) are influenced by age, sex and breed. Simple and multiple regression models for body weight prediction were significant.

Adiposidad abdominal y resistencia a la insulina al finalizar el primer trimestre de la gestación / Abdominal Adiposity and Insulin Resistance at the End of the First Trimester of Gestation

Introducción: La adiposidad central como factor desencadenante de resistencia a la insulina precoz constituye una amenaza potencial de riesgo metabólico y cardiovascular en el embarazo. Objetivo: Determinar la capacidad discriminante de las grasas abdominales sobre la resistencia a la insulina, diagnosticada por el índice triglicéridos/glucosa-IMC al finalizar el primer trimestre del embarazo. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional analítico de 526 gestantes con embarazo simple y edad gestacional entre 12 y 13 semanas, entre los años 2016 y 2020. Se estudió el test de triglicéridos/glucosa-IMC y las grasas abdominales por ultrasonido. Se utilizaron las curvas ROC (Receiver operating characteristic Curve) para discriminar la resistencia a la insulina al finalizar el primer trimestre de la gestación, cuando aumentan las grasas abdominales. Resultados: La grasa subcutánea fue la que presentó mayor área bajo la curva en la discriminación de la resistencia a la insulina, con un nivel de sensibilidad y especificidad aceptable. Conclusiones: La grasa subcutánea, aunque con bajo valor discriminativo, puede considerarse como augurio de resistencia a la insulina y de diabetes gestacional. Se requiere profundizar en el estudio de las grasas abdominales dado el conocimiento de su impacto en los desórdenes metabólicos en el curso avanzado de la gestación(AU)

Introduction: Central adiposity as a triggering factor for early insulin resistance is a potential threat of metabolic and cardiovascular risk in pregnancy. Objective: To determine the discriminating capacity of abdominal fat over insulin resistance, diagnosed by the triglyceride/glucose-BMI index at the end of the first trimester of pregnancy. Methods: An analytical and observational study was carried out with 526 pregnant women of singleton pregnancy and gestational age between twelve and thirteen weeks, between 2016 and 2020. The triglyceride/glucose-BMI test was studied, together with abdominal fats by ultrasound. ROC (receiver operating characteristic) curves were used to discriminate insulin resistance at the end of the first trimester of gestation, when abdominal fats increase. Results: Subcutaneous fat presented the highest area under the curve in the discrimination of insulin resistance, with an acceptable level of sensitivity and specificity. Conclusions: Subcutaneous fat, although with low discriminative value, can be considered as a harbinger of insulin resistance and gestational diabetes. Further study of abdominal fat is required, given the knowledge of its impact on metabolic disorders in late gestation(AU)

Estudo de propriedades psicométricas do M-chat no Brasil / Study of M-chat psychometric proprieties in Brazil / Estudio de las propiedades psicométricas de M-chat en Brasil

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as propriedades psicométricas do Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-Chat) em crianças de 24 a 36 meses de idade com (Grupo 1/n = 88) e sem (Grupo 2/n = 1116) o transtorno do espectro do autismo (TEA). Avaliou-se a consistência interna e estimou-se a sensibilidade, especificidade, valor preditivo positivo (VPP), valor preditivo negativo (VPN). Além disso, construiu-se a curva Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC). Para avaliar a validade discriminante, comparou-se a proporção de falhas entre as crianças com e sem o TEA, utilizando o teste qui-quadrado ou teste Exato de Fisher. Comparou-se ainda o número de falhas segundo sexo, faixa etária e grupo do participante por meio do teste de Mann-Whitney. O M-Chat apresentou consistência interna elevada (0,78 e 0,86), reprodutibilidade satisfatória (Kappa de 0,6 a 0,79 e CCI = 0,87 e 0,89), alta sensibilidade (0,807 e 0,932), especificidade (0,927 e 0,706) e VPN (0,984 e 0,992), porém as estimativas do VPP (0,467 e 0,250) não foram satisfatórias. Quanto à validade discriminante, observou-se que a proporção de falhas foi significativamente maior no grupo de crianças com TEA. Observou-se também que o número de falhas foi maior entre as crianças do sexo masculino, com faixa etária de 25-36 meses e no grupo com TEA. A versão brasileira do M-Chat tem propriedades psicométricas adequadas no que se refere à confiabilidade, sensibilidade, especificidade, VPN e validade discriminante, o que torna recomendável sua aplicação para rastrear crianças com sinais do TEA.(AU)

This study aims to assess the psychometric properties of the instrument Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) in children from 24 to 36 months old with (Group 1/n = 88) and without (Group 2/n = 1116) Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Internal consistency was evaluated and sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were estimated. Also, the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was generated. To evaluate the discriminant validity, the proportion of flaws among children with and without ASD was assessed by applying the Chi-square test or by the Exact Fisher test. The number of flaws based on sex, age group, and participant's group was also compared with the Mann-Whitney Test. The M-CHAT showed high internal consistency (0.78 and 0.86), satisfactory reproductivity (Kappa 0.60 and 0.79 and ICC = 0.87 and 0.89), high sensibility (0.807 and 0.932), specificity (0.927 and 0.706), and NPV (0.984 and 0.992); however, PPV estimates (0.467 and 0.250) were not satisfactory. Regarding the discriminant validity, the proportion of flaws was significantly higher in the group of children with ASD. Moreover, the number of flaws was larger among boys, in the age group 25-36 months, and in the group with ASD. The Brazilian version of M-CHAT has adequate psychometric properties concerning reliability, sensitivity, specificity, NPV and discriminant validity, which makes its application recommendable to track children with ASD signs.(AU)

Ese estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar las propiedades psicométricas del Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) en niños de 24 a los 36 meses de edad con (grupo 1/n=88) y sin (grupo 2/n=1116) el trastorno del espectro autista (TEA). Fueron evaluadas la consistencia interna y estimadas la sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo (VPP), valor predictivo negativo (VPN). Además, se construyó la curva Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC). Para evaluar la validad discriminante se comparó la proporción de los fracasos entre los niños con y sin TEA, utilizando el examen chi-cuadrado o la prueba exacta de Fisher. Se compararon también el número de fracasos según el sexo, edad y grupo de participantes por medio del teste Mann-Whitney. El M-CHAT presentó consistencia interna elevada (0,78 y 0,86), reproductividad satisfactoria (Kappa de 0,60 a 0,79 e CCI = 0,87 e 0,89), alta sensibilidad (0,807 e 0,932), especificidad (0,927 e 0,706) y VPN (0,984 e 0,992), pero las estimativas del VPP (0,467 e 0,250) no fueron satisfactorias. Acerca de la validad discriminante, se observó que la proporción de fallas fue significativamente mayor en el grupo de niños con TEA. El número de fracasos fue mayor entre los niños varones, de 25 a 36 meses de edad y no en el grupo con TEA. La versión brasileña del M-CHAT tiene propiedades psicométricas adecuadas en lo que concierne a la confiabilidad, sensibilidad, especificidad, VPN y validad discriminante, lo que hace que su aplicación sea recomendada para rastrear los niños con señales de TEA.(AU)

Impacto da pandemia da Covid-19 na autopercepção vocal e fatores preditivos em professores / Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vocal self-perception and predictive factors in teachers

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar a autopercepção de esforço vocal, sinais e sintomas vocais e fadiga vocal em professores antes e durante a pandemia da COVID-19; e os fatores relacionados a dados sociodemograficos e ocupacionais que pudessem prever a autopercepção durante a pandemia. Métodos Participaram do estudo 263 professores brasileiros que estavam trabalhando em home office durante a pandemia. Eles responderam um questionário sobre dados sociodemográficos e ocupacionais, escala de Borg CR10-BR adaptada para classificação de esforço vocal, Lista de Sinais e Sintomas Vocais e Índice de Fadiga Vocal. Os questionários de autoavaliação vocal foram respondidos duas vezes, considerando antes e durante a pandemia. Resultados A autopercepção de esforço vocal, sinais e sintomas vocais e fadiga vocal durante a pandemia em professores foi menor do que antes da pandemia. Na comparação dos desfechos por queixa vocal, os professores sem queixa vocal apresentaram valores menores do que aqueles com queixa vocal. Professores com queixas vocais durante a pandemia apresentaram maior autopercepção de fadiga vocal. Professores de educação infantil, ensino fundamental e ensino médio relataram mais sinais e sintomas vocais antes do que durante a pandemia. Conclusão Em geral, os professores relatam diminuição do esforço vocal e dos sinais e sintomas vocais durante a pandemia de COVID-19. Professores com queixas vocais apresentam maior percepção de esforço vocal, sinais e sintomas vocais e fadiga vocal. A presença de queixas vocais e as variáveis relacionadas à demanda vocal durante a pandemia estão relacionadas à percepção de esforço vocal, sinais e sintomas vocais e fadiga vocal.

ABSTRACT Purpose This study aims to analyze the self-perception of vocal effort, vocal signs and symptoms, and vocal fatigue in teachers before and during the COVID-19 pandemic; and factors related to sociodemographic and occupational data that could predict self-perception during the pandemic Methods Participants were 263 Brazilian teachers working from in-home office during the pandemic. They answered a questionnaire on sociodemographic and occupational data, adapted Borg CR10-BR for vocal effort ratings, Vocal Signs and Symptoms List, and Vocal Fatigue Index. The vocal self-assessment questionnaires were answered twice, considering the period before and during the pandemic. Results The self-perception of vocal effort, vocal signs and symptoms, and vocal fatigue during the pandemic in teachers was lower than before the pandemic. In comparing outcomes due to vocal complaints, teachers with no vocal complaints presented lower values than those with vocal complaints. Teachers with vocal complaints during the pandemic showed greater self-perception of vocal fatigue. Teachers at early education, elementary, and high schools self-reported more vocal signs and symptoms before than during the pandemic. Conclusion In general, teachers report decreased vocal effort and vocal signs and symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Teachers with vocal complaints have a higher perception of vocal effort, vocal signs and symptoms, and vocal fatigue. The presence of vocal complaints and the variables related to vocal demand during the pandemic are related to the perception of vocal effort, vocal signs and symptoms, and vocal fatigue.

Index of microcirculatory resistance: state-of-the-art and potential applications in computational simulation of coronary artery disease / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

The dysfunction of coronary microcirculation is an important cause of coronary artery disease (CAD). The index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR) is a quantitative evaluation of coronary microcirculatory function, which provides a significant reference for the prediction, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of CAD. IMR also plays a key role in investigating the interaction between epicardial and microcirculatory dysfunctions, and is closely associated with coronary hemodynamic parameters such as flow rate, distal coronary pressure, and aortic pressure, which have been widely applied in computational studies of CAD. However, there is currently a lack of consensus across studies on the normal and pathological ranges of IMR. The relationships between IMR and coronary hemodynamic parameters have not been accurately quantified, which limits the application of IMR in computational CAD studies. In this paper, we discuss the research gaps between IMR and its potential applications in the computational simulation of CAD. Computational simulation based on the combination of IMR and other hemodynamic parameters is a promising technology to improve the diagnosis and guide clinical trials of CAD.