Accuracy of the Verbal Autopsy questionnaire in the diagnosis of COVID-19 deaths in a Brazilian capital

ABSTRACT The Verbal Autopsy (VA) is a questionnaire about the circumstances surrounding a death. It was widely used in Brazil to assist in postmortem diagnoses and investigate excess mortality during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study aimed to determine the accuracy of investigating acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) using VA. This is a cross-sectional study with prospective data collected from January 2020 to August 2021 at the Death Verification Service of Sao Luis city, Brazil. VA was performed for suspected COVID-19 deaths, and one day of the week was randomly chosen to collect samples from patients without suspected COVID-19. Two swabs were collected after death and subjected to reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for SARS-CoV-2 detection. Of the 250 cases included, the VA questionnaire identified COVID-19-related ARDS in 67.2% (52.98% were positive for COVID-19). The sensitivity of the VA questionnaire was 0.53 (0.45-0.61), the specificity was 0.75 (0.64-0.84), the positive predictive value was 0.81 (0.72-0.88), and the negative predictive value was 0.44 (0.36-0.53). The VA had a lower-than-expected accuracy for detecting COVID-19 deaths; however, because it is an easily accessible and cost-effective tool, it can be combined with more accurate methods to improve its performance.

Evaluation of Brazilian women's participation in the CNPQ in the field of medical research / Avaliação da participação das mulheres brasileiras no CNPQ na área de pesquisa médica

Abstract Introduction: Brazilian scientific production has shown substantial growth and achieved international visibility. However, in general, the participation of women in scientific activities remains limited. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the indicators of scientific productivity of women fellows of the Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) in the field of Medicine. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 541 (211 women, 39%) researchers registered as recipients of CNPq research productivity (PQ) scholarships in Medicine according to a list provided in December 2022. Results: There was a predominance of male researchers (n=330; 61%). In both the male and female groups, most researchers were at level 2, with 62.5% women and 47.2% men (p=0.018). All 211 female PQ scholars were distributed among 37 different institutions and published 34,969 papers in scientific journals, averaging 165.7 articles per researcher. In the last five years of the study period (from 2018 to 2022), 9,679 papers were published. Over their careers, the 211 researchers supervised 5,440 undergraduate research students, 4,144 master's degree students, and 2,923 PhD candidates. There was a significant difference between the scholarship levels for the development of human resources in undergraduate research (p=0.040), master's degree (p=0.027), and PhD. (p<0.001). Conclusion: There are still less women participating in CNPq medical research than men. However, we observed a substantial participation of women in all the assessed items, including technical and scientific production and the human resources training.

Resumo Introdução: A produção científica brasileira apresentou crescimento substancial e visibilidade internacional. Contudo, em geral, a participação das mulheres em atividades científicas ainda é limitada. Objetivo: Este estudo objetivou avaliar os indicadores de produtividade científica de mulheres bolsistas do Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) na área de medicina. Método: Foi realizado estudo transversal com 541 (211 mulheres, 39%) pesquisadores cadastrados como bolsistas de produtividade em medicina do CNPq conforme lista disponibilizada em dezembro de 2022. Resultado: Houve predomínio de pesquisadores do sexo masculino (n = 330; 61%). Em ambos os grupos, masculino e feminino, a maioria dos investigadores encontra-se no nível 2, sendo 62,5% mulheres e 47,2% homens (p = 0,018). Todos os 211 pesquisadores foram distribuídos em 37 instituições diferentes e publicaram 34.969 artigos em revistas científicas, com média de 165,7 artigos por pesquisador. De 2018 a 2022, foram publicados 9.679 artigos. Ao longo de suas carreiras, os 211 pesquisadores orientaram 5.440 alunos de iniciação científica, 4.144 alunos de mestrado e 2.923 alunos de doutorado. Houve diferença significativa entre os níveis de bolsas quanto ao desenvolvimento de recursos humanos em iniciação científica (p = 0,040), mestrado (p = 0,027) e doutorado (p < 0,001). Conclusão: Ainda há menor participação de mulheres do que de homens entre os pesquisadores médicos do CNPq. Contudo, foi possível observar participação substancial das mulheres em todos os quesitos avaliados, incluindo a produção técnica e científica e a formação de recursos humanos.

Dynamic and static ultrasound features predictive of vesicoureteral reflux and renal damage in children and adolescents with neurogenic bladder

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the diagnostic accuracy of dynamic and static ultrasound (DSUS) in detecting vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and renal scarring in a cohort of children with neurogenic bladder (NB). Materials and Methods: A retrospective, longitudinal, observational study was conducted using the Reporting Diagnostic Accuracy Studies guideline. The DSUS (index test) data were compared with voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) and renal scintigraphy 99mTc-dimercaptosuccinic (reference tests). Overall performance for predicting VUR and renal scarring was assessed using renal pelvic diameter (RPD)/distal ureteral diameter and renal parenchymal thinning on DSUS, respectively. Results: A total of 107 patients (66 girls, median age 9.6 years) participated. Seventeen patients (15.9%) presented VUR, eight bilateral. For overall reflux grade, the AUC was 0.624 for RPD and 0.630 for distal ureteral diameter. The diagnostic performance for detecting high-grade VUR was slightly better for DSUS parameters. The AUC was 0.666 for RPD and 0.691 for distal ureteral diameter. The cut-offs of 5 mm for RPD and 6.5 mm for distal ureteral diameter presented the best diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) to identify high-grade VUR. The increase of RPD during detrusor contractions showed an accuracy of 89.2%. The thinness of renal parenchyma presented an accuracy of 88% for renal scarring. Conclusion: DSUS predicts VUR and renal scarring in children with NB with fair to good accuracy, and all measurements exhibited a high negative predictive value (NPV). The increase in RPD during voiding or detrusor contractions proved to be the most accurate parameter for indicating the presence of VUR in this study.

Prejudice impairing quality of life in sickle cell disease patients in a developing country: faces of suffering

ABSTRACT Introduction: The perception of prejudice against, and stigmatization of, sickle cell disease (SCD) leads the patient to perceive a different treatment, due to the disease stigma and maybe related to a worse quality of life (QoL). Objectives: Describe and evaluate the perception of the prejudice against the disease and its impact on the quality of life of patients with sickle cell disease. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted between March 2019 and February 2020, with patients diagnosed with SCD. Patients were questioned about the perception of prejudice in any kind of situation, choosing between "Yes" or "No", not differentiating situations related to prejudice. To assess the QoL and impact of the disease, the volunteers answered a version of the SF-36 questionnaire translated and validated into Brazilian Portuguese. Results: In this study, 113 patients with SCD were followed up, 92% were classified as HbSS and the rest, divided between HbSC and HbS-β-0. Regarding the SF-36, the worst scores were in the summary of the physical components (mean 48.19 ± 21.51) and the physical aspect had the lowest mean (30.75 ± €42.65). When questioned if they had already perceived any kind of prejudice, including the SCD, 32.74% answered "Yes". For this comparison, there was a significant difference in the summary of the physical and mental components, with worse QoL for those who had already suffered prejudice. Conclusion: Patients diagnosed with SCD who reported perception of prejudice had statistically significant worse QoL, revealing the negative impact, that might lead to sadness and social isolation.

Assessment of pain and quality of life in patients undergoing cardiac surgery: a cohort study

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate postoperative pain and quality of life in patients undergoing median sternotomy. METHODS: A cohort study was carried out on a sample of 30 patients who underwent elective cardiac surgery by longitudinal median sternotomy. Patients were interviewed at Intensive Care Unit discharge and hospital discharge, when the Visual Numeric Scale and the Brief Pain Inventory were applied, and 2 weeks after hospital discharge, when the World Health Organization Quality of Life-Bref questionnaire was administered. The normality of the results was analyzed by the Shapiro-Wilk test, and Wilcoxon Rank Sum and McNemar tests were utilized for the analysis of numerical and categorical variables. For correlation between numerical variables, Spearman's linear correlation test was applied. To compare numerical variables, Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests were applied. Differences between groups were considered significant when the p-value was <0.05. RESULTS: Between Intensive Care Unit and hospital discharge, there was a reduction in median pain intensity assessed by the Visual Numeric Scale from 5.0 to 2.0 (p<0.001), as well as in eight Brief Pain Inventory parameters: worst pain intensity in the last 24 h (p=0.001), analgesic relief (p=0.035), and pain felt right now (p=0.009); and in interference in daily activities (p<0.001), mood (p=0.017), ability to walk (p<0.001), relationship with other people (p=0.005), and sleep (p=0.006). Higher pain intensity at Intensive Care Unit discharge was associated with worse performance in the psychological domain of quality of life at out-of-hospital follow-up. CONCLUSION: Proper management of post-sternotomy pain in the Intensive Care Unit may imply better quality of life at out-of-hospital follow-up.

Revaluation of the COVID-19 pandemic impact on the epidemiology of syphilis in Brazil

Introduction: Due to the coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) pandemic, health systems worldwide have suffered interferences, with the interruption of sexual health clinics, limitation of ambulatory consults, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of several diseases, especially syphilis, altering their epidemiology.Objective: To investigate the impact of the pandemic on syphilis diagnosis in Brazil, the main goal of this study was to update and reevaluate data from the Brazilian Unified Health System on the number of syphilis cases reported in all five Brazilian geographic regions and verify the response of the Brazilian health care to the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The data were retrieved from the National Disease Notification System and the Department of Chronic Conditions Diseases and Sexually Transmitted Infections and represent syphilis diagnosis in Brazil, from March to December 2017 to 2019, 2020, and 2021. Results: The increase in the number of syphilis cases was minor compared to 2020, keeping the Southeast region as the most impacted (+146.1%) and an increase of 22,633 cases throughout Brazil (+54.3%). Conclusion:Syphilis disease control measures were ineffective in 2021 as the drop in the number of cases was irrelevant compared to the years before the pandemic. The association between the increase in syphilis cases in Brazil and the COVID-19 pandemic should be further investigated to assist in decision-making processes and in the programming of health actions in addition to finding measures to raise the control of this disease.

Introdução: Em consequência da pandemia de COVID-19, os sistemas de saúde em todo o mundo sofreram interferências, com interrupção de clínicas de saúde sexual, limitação de consultas ambulatoriais, de prevenção, diagnóstico e tratamento de diversas doenças, principalmente a sífilis, alterando sua epidemiologia. Objetivo: Para investigar o impacto da pandemia no diagnóstico da sífilis no Brasil, o objetivo principal do presente estudo foi atualizar e reavaliar os dados do Sistema Único de Saúde sobre o número de casos de sífilis notificados nas cinco regiões geográficas brasileiras e verificar a resposta da atenção básica à saúde brasileira diante da pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos: Os dados foram retirados do Sistema Nacional de Notificação de Agravos e do Departamento de Doenças Crônicas e Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis e representam o diagnóstico de sífilis no Brasil, de março a dezembro de 2017 a 2019, 2020 e 2021. Resultados: O aumento no número de casos de sífilis foi menor em relação a 2020, mantendo-se a Região Sudeste como a mais impactada (+146,1%) e havendo aumento de 22.633 casos em todo o Brasil (+54,3%). Conclusão: As medidas de controle da sífilis foram ineficazes em 2021, pois a queda no número de casos foi irrelevante em comparação aos anos anteriores à pandemia. A associação entre o aumento dos casos de sífilis no Brasil e a pandemia de COVID-19 deve ser mais bem investigada para auxiliar nos processos de tomada de decisão e na programação das ações de saúde, além de se encontrarem medidas para elevar o controle desta doença.

Detection of HPV DNA in vaginal samples self-collected by women living with HIV treated through the Brazilian public health system: Prevalence and analysis of risk factors

ABSTRACT Background: Women living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (WLWH) are more likely to be infected with the oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV). We assessed the prevalence of high-risk (HR) (16/18/31/33/35/39/45/51/52/56/58/59/68/73/82), probable high-risk (pHR) (26/53/66), and low-risk (LR) (6/11/40/42/43/44/54/61/70) HPV types and their associated risk factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study of WLWH aged 18-64 years included one laboratory and eight HIV-specialty healthcare facilities in the pilot network. Descriptive statistics were used to assess sociodemographic and behavioral characteristics. Adjusted analyses were conducted to evaluate risk factors associated with HR and/or pHR HPV infection in WLWH. Results: From May/2021 to May/2022, 1,914 (92.5%) WLWH participated in the pilot study and had valid HPV-DNA results of self-collected vaginal samples. The median age of the participants was 45 years, 60.1% had ≥ 9 years of schooling, 80.5% were ≤ 18 years at first sexual intercourse, and 51.7% had > 4 sexual partners throughout life. The prevalence of any HPV type, HR HPV, pHR HPV, and LR HPV was 65.8%, 49.6%, 16.7%, and 40.0%, respectively. Age was inversely associated with pHR and/or HR-HPV (p < 0.001), and education level was inversely associated with HR-HPV (p = 0.003) types. Any HR or pHR was associated with being single (p = 0.029) and exchanging sex for drugs (p = 0.037). Conclusions: The prevalence of HPV, especially HR HPV, among WLWH is high in Brazil, highlighting the need for HPV screening in this population. Self-collection of vaginal samples is an important strategy for increasing testing access.

The continuous increase in the number of systemic lupus erythematosus cases in Brazil in the COVID-19 era

Abstract This study aims to reevaluate and compare the data from the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) on the number of diagnoses of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the pre-pandemic period with those in the pandemic period, as well as to compare the first year (2020) of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil with the last year (2021), to update the data, and to verify whether SLE disease control measures were effective in 2021. There was a consistent and significant increase in the incidence of SLE cases all over Brazil between the first and second pandemic years and between the pre-pandemic triennium and the second pandemic year. Therefore, it is inescapable to have larger clinical studies with different populations to better understand the relationship between these two conditions and find measures to improve the control of this disease.

Fatores associados à autoavaliação de saúde bucal por adultos em hemodiálise / Factors associated with self-rated oral health in adults with hemodialysis

Resumo Introdução Pacientes com insuficiência renal crônica podem apresentar prejuízos em sua saúde bucal em decorrência da própria doença, do tratamento e das alterações de estilo de vida associadas. Objetivo Avaliar os fatores associados à autoavaliação de saúde bucal ruim entre adultos com insuficiência renal crônica submetidos à hemodiálise. Método Estudo transversal com 243 adultos submetidos à hemodiálise em um hospital do sul de Minas Gerais nos anos de 2013 e 2014. O desfecho foi avaliado pelo autorrelato da condição bucal dicotomizada em boa (ótima/boa) e ruim (regular/ruim/péssima). As variáveis independentes incluíram condições sociodemográficas, saúde geral, saúde bucal e uso de serviços odontológicos, a partir de informações coletadas por meio de questionário. A associação entre o desfecho e as variáveis independentes foi testada por meio de modelos logísticos múltiplos com inclusão hierarquizada de variáveis. Resultados A prevalência de autoavaliação de saúde bucal ruim foi de 35,4%. Os mais jovens (p = 0,015), os que se submetem à hemodiálise há menos tempo (p = 0,016), têm halitose (p <0,001), necessitam de tratamento odontológico (p <0,001) e tiveram a última consulta odontológica por motivo diferente de dor (p = 0,027) expressaram maiores chances de autoavaliação de saúde bucal ruim, independentemente de condições sociodemográficas e de saúde. Conclusão Condições sociodemográficas, tempo em hemodiálise, agravos à saúde bucal e uso de serviços odontológicos influenciaram a autoavaliação da saúde bucal dos adultos submetidos à hemodiálise.

Abstract Background Patients with chronic renal failure may have their oral health impaired as a result of the disease itself, its treatment, and its associated lifestyle alterations. Objective To assess the factors associated with poor self-rated oral health among adults with chronic renal failure treated by hemodialysis. Method This is a cross-sectional study with 243 adults undergoing hemodialysis in a hospital in Minas Gerais, Brazil in 2013-2014. The outcome was assessed by the self-report of oral health categorized into good (excellent/good) and bad (fair/bad / very bad). The independent variables included sociodemographic conditions, general health, oral health, and the use of dental services were collected through a structured questionnaire. The association between the outcome and the independent variables was tested using multiple logistic models with hierarchical inclusion of variables. Results The prevalence of poor self-rated oral health was 35.4%. The youngest (p = 0.015), those who have undergone hemodialysis in the shortest time (p = 0.016), have halitosis (p <0.001), need dental treatment (p <0.001), and had their last dental appointment not for pain (p = 0.027) expressed higher odds of poor self-rated oral health, independently of sociodemographic and health conditions. Conclusion Sociodemographic conditions, time on hemodialysis, oral impairments, and use of dental services affected the oral health self-assessment among adults undergoing hemodialysis.

Ultrassonografia intravascular para guiar a intervenção coronária percutânea: resultados do registro nacional português / Intravascular ultrasound in percutaneous coronary intervention guidance: results from Portuguese registry

Introdução: As diretrizes atuais recomendam o uso da ultrassonografia intravascular de coronárias como ferramenta adjuvante em situações difíceis. Objetivo: Caracterizar a utilização da ultrassonografia intravascular em Portugal e comparar os desfechos após intervenção coronária percutânea no tronco da coronária esquerda, guiada ou não por ultrassonografia intravascular. Métodos: Estudo observacional retrospectivo multicêntrico, que analisou pacientes submetidos à intervenção coronária percutânea entre janeiro de 2012 e dezembro de 2018, incluídos no Portuguese Registry on Interventional Cardiology da Sociedade Portuguesa de Cardiologia. Valor de p bicaudal <0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. Resultados: Este estudo demonstrou variação significativa na utilização da ultrassonografia intravascular em Portugal (valor de p qui-quadrado para tendência <0,001). O ano com maior utilização foi 2016 (2,4%). Houve aumento progressivo, nos últimos 7 anos, na utilização da ultrassonografia intravascular na intervenção coronária percutânea do tronco da coronária esquerda (valor de p qui-quadrado para tendência <0,001), com importantes diferenças regionais. A população submetida à intervenção coronária percutânea do tronco da coronária esquerda guiada por ultrassonografia intravascular era mais jovem, mas tinha maior prevalência de fatores de risco cardiovascular, disfunção sistólica ventricular e lesões coronárias complexas. Além disso, esse grupo de pacientes teve menor prevalência do desfecho primário intra-hospitalar (1,4% versus 3,9%; p=0,024). Porém, após análise multivariada ajustada para fatores de confusão, este estudo não demonstrou impacto significativo da utilização da ultrassonografia intravascular no desfecho intra-hospitalar. Conclusão: A utilização da ultrassonografia intravascular na intervenção coronária percutânea do tronco da coronária esquerda vem aumentando lentamente nos últimos 7 anos em Portugal. Neste estudo, a utilização desse método não teve impacto estatístico nos desfechos intra-hospitalares.

Background: Current guidelines recommend the use of coronary intravascular ultrasound as an adjunctive tool in challenging situations. Objective: To characterize the use of intravascular ultrasound in Portugal and compare outcomes after left main percutaneous coronary intervention, with or without intravascular ultrasound. Methods: A retrospective multicentric observational study analyzed patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention between January 2012 and December 2018 and were included in the Portuguese Registry on Interventional Cardiology of the Sociedade Portuguesa de Cardiologia. A two-sided p-value<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: This study revealed significant variation of intravascular ultrasound usage in Portugal over time (p-value Chi-squared for trend <0.001). The year with maximum use was 2016 (2.4%). Regarding left main percutaneous coronary intervention, there was a progressive increase in use of intravascular ultrasound (p-value Chi-squared for trend<0.001) in the last 7 years, with important regional differences. The population submitted to left main percutaneous coronary intervention with intravascular ultrasound was younger, but had a higher prevalence of some cardiovascular risk factors, ventricular systolic dysfunction, and complex coronary lesions. Moreover, this group of patients had lower prevalence of intrahospital primary endpoint (1.4% versus 3.9%; p=0.024). However, after multivariate analysis adjusted to confounding factors, this study did not demonstrate a significant impact of intravascular ultrasound on intrahospital endpoint. Conclusion: The overall use of intravascular ultrasound in left main percutaneous coronary intervention has been slowly increasing in the last seven years, in Portugal. In this study, the use of this method had no statistical impact in intrahospital endpoints.

Oral Health and related inequalities among visual impairment people in a Brazil municipality / Saúde bucal e desigualdades relacionadas entre pessoas com deficiência visual em um município brasileiro

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the oral health and related factors among people with visual impairment in a municipality in southeastern Brazil. Methods: A cross-sectional and descriptive household study was carried out on a representative sample of people with visual impairments in a medium-sized city in Brazil. A clinical-dental examination was performed (evaluating tooth loss, caries, periodontal health, dental plaque use and need of prosthesis) and a semistructured questionnaire was applied, investigating the socioeconomic conditions (sex, age, marital status, skin color and income) and the use of dental services (reason, time since, and type of service used [private/public] in last dental visit). Descriptive and bivariate analysis were performed to asses the factors related to oral health. Results: The mean age of participants was 65 years (±15.05), with the majority women (70.9%). 53.1% of the interviewees were edentulous, but 58.2% had a good perception of oral health. The blind ones use less public services (p=0.038) and with a lower frequency (p=0.014) than subjects with low vision. Those with less schooling had higher tooth loss and lower periodontal problems (p <0.05). There was a reduction of dental plaque six months after the educational action (30.7%; p=0.01), especially among the low vision participants (p=0.01). Conclusion: Severe tooth loss and unsatisfactory hygiene contrast with self-perception of oral health. Visual acuity and schooling were related to access and oral health. Actions for promotion and equity are necessary to overcome the inequalities encountered.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a saúde bucal e fatores relacionados entre deficientes visuais em município do sudeste brasileiro. Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo domiciliar, transversal e descritivo em uma amostra representativa de pessoas com deficiência visual em uma cidade de médio porte do Brasil. Realizou-se o exame clínico bucal (avaliando perda dentária, cárie, saúde periodontal, placa dentária, uso e necessidade de prótese) e aplicou-se um questionário semiestruturado, investigando as condições socioeconômicas (sexo, idade, estado civil, cor da pele e renda) e o uso de serviços odontológicos (motivo, tempo decorrido e tipo de serviço utilizado [privado/público] na última consulta odontológica). Foram realizadas análises descritivas e bivariadas para avaliar os fatores associados à saúde bucal. Resultados: A idade média dos participantes foi de 65 anos (±15,05), com maioria de mulheres (70,9%). 53,1% dos entrevistados eram edêntulos, porém, 58,2% apresentaram percepção de saúde bucal boa. Os cegos usam menos os serviços públicos (p=0,038) e em menor frequência (p=0,014) que os sujeitos com baixa visão. Os menos escolarizados apresentam maiores perdas dentárias e menores problemas periodontais (p<0,05). Houve redução de placa dentária seis meses após ação educativa (30,7%; p=0,01), sobretudo entre os sujeitos com baixa visão (p=0,01). Conclusão: Elevada perda dentária e higienização insatisfatória contrastaram com autopercepção dos agravos bucais. Acuidade visual e escolaridade relacionaram-se ao acesso e saúde bucal. Ações de promoção e equidade são necessários para superar desigualdades encontradas.

Cardiomyopathy Induced by Artificial Cardiac Pacing: To Whom, When, Why, and How? Insights on Heart Failure Development

ABSTRACT Coordinated and harmonic (synchronous) ventricular electrical activation is essential for better left ventricular systolic function. Intraventricular conduction abnormalities, such as left bundle branch block due to artificial cardiac pacing, lead to electromechanical "dyssynchronopathy" with deleterious structural and clinical consequences. The aim of this review was to describe and improve the understanding of all the processes connecting the several mechanisms involved in the development of artificially induced ventricular dyssynchrony by cardiac pacing, most known as pacing-induced cardiomyopathy (PiCM). The chronic effect of abnormal impulse conduction and nonphysiological ectopic activation by artificial cardiac pacing is suspected to affect metabolism and myocardial perfusion, triggering regional differences in the activation/contraction processes that cause electrical and structural remodeling due to damage, inflammation, and fibrosis of the cardiac tissue. The effect of artificial cardiac pacing on ventricular function and structure can be multifactorial, and biological factors underlying PiCM could affect the time and probability of developing the condition. PiCM has not been included in the traditional classification of cardiomyopathies, which can hinder detection. This article reviews the available evidence for pacing-induced cardiovascular disease, the current understanding of its pathophysiology, and reinforces the adverse effects of right ventricular pacing, especially right ventricular pacing burden (commonly measured in percentage) and its repercussion on ventricular contraction (reflected by the impact on left ventricular systolic function). These effects might be the main defining criteria and determining mechanisms of the pathophysiology and the clinical repercussion seen on patients.

Postural Hypervigilance and Perception of Correct Sitting Posture in Individuals With and Without Low Back Pain / Hipervigilância postural e percepção da postura correta sentada em indivíduos com e sem dor lombar

Abstract Objectives To verify if there is a difference in postural hypervigilance in sitting in individuals with and without low back pain. Additionally, to observe whether there is a difference in the perception of correct sitting posture between individuals with low back pain and without low back pain. Methods The present study has a cross-sectional observational design, as a sample size of 92 individuals, later divided equally into two groups (with low back pain and without low back pain). Two instruments were used: the hypervigilance scale to analyze the frequency that volunteers correct their sitting posture during the day, and posture scans to investigate the perception of volunteers about the correct sitting posture. The data were submitted to the Shapiro-Wilk Normality test. To compare the values of Hypervigilance Scale, the Mann-Whitney, Chi-Square, and Fisher Exact tests were used to assess correct sitting posture. Results There was no significant difference between postural hypervigilance in sitting between individuals with low back pain and without low back pain. There was no significant difference between the choice of correct sitting posture between the group of individuals with and without low back pain. Conclusion There is no difference between the choice of correct sitting posture and the amount of postural hypervigilance in individuals with or without low back pain.

Resumo Objetivos Verificar se há diferença na hipervigilância postural sentada em indivíduos com e sem dor lombar. Além disso, observar se há diferença na percepção da postura correta sentada entre indivíduos com dor lombar e sem dor lombar. Métodos O presente estudo possui delineamento observacional transversal, como tamanho amostral de 92 indivíduos, posteriormente divididos igualmente em dois grupos (com dor lombar e sem dor lombar). Foram utilizados dois instrumentos: a escala de hipervigilância para analisar a frequência que voluntários corrigem a postura sentada no dia; e o quadro de posturas para investigar a percepção dos voluntários sobre a postura correta sentada. Os dados foram submetidos ao teste de Normalidade de Shapiro-Wilk. Para comparar os valores da Escala de Hipervigilância foi utilizado o teste de Mann-Whitney e o teste Qui-quadrado e exato de Fisher para avaliação da postura correta sentada. Resultados Não houve diferença significativa entre a hipervigilância postural sentada entre indivíduos com dor lombar e sem dor lombar. Não houve diferença significativa entre a escolha da postura correta sentada entre o grupo de indivíduos com e sem dor lombar. Conclusão Não há diferença entre a escolha da postura correta sentada e quantidade de hipervigilância postural em indivíduos com ou sem dor lombar.

Protocolo estadual para atendimento de casos suspeitos ou confirmados de síndrome inflamatória multssistêmica em adultos (SIM-A) associada à covid-19 / State protocol for the care of suspected or confirmed cases of multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in adults (SIM-A) associated with covid-19

Desde abril de 2020, em vários países da Europa, América do Norte e inclusive no Brasil, foram identificados casos de crianças e adolescentes com uma nova apresentação clínica associada à Covid-19 e caracterizada por um quadro inflamatório tardio e exacerbado, denominada em português como Síndrome Inflamatória Multissistêmica Pediátrica (SIM-P). Evidências posteriores mostram que, em casos raros, indivíduos adultos (acima dos 20 anos) também podem desenvolver uma síndrome semelhante, associada à infecção atual ou anterior pelo SARS-CoV-2.1-3. Relatos desses pacientes destacam o reconhecimento de uma síndrome hiperinflamatória multissistêmica em adultos, com heterogeneidade de sinais e sintomas clínicos.4 A maioria dos pacientes apresenta febre e hipotensão e uma pequena parcela pode apresentar sintomas similares à síndrome de Kawasaki, síndrome de ativação macrofágica e síndrome do choque tóxico.5 No Brasil, a síndrome foi nomeada de Síndrome Inflamatória Multissistêmica em Adultos (SIM-A). Alguns casos suspeitos dessa condição já foram identificados no país e notificados voluntariamente pelos profissionais de saúde da assistência.

Relatório de recomendação para adoção de um protocolo estadual para atendimento de casos suspeitos ou confirmados de síndrome inflamatória multissistêmica em adultos (SIM-A) associada à covid-19 / Recommendation report for the adoption of a state protocol for the care of suspected or confirmed cases of multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in adults (SIM-A) associated with covid-19

Este relatório refere-se à análise crítica da Nota Técnica do Ministério da Saúde nº 38/2022-DEIDT/SVS/MS1 apresentada pela DIVE/SES/SC para a elaboração de um Protocolo Estadual de Atendimento para Casos Suspeitos ou Confirmados de Síndrome Inflamatória Multissistêmica em Adultos (SIM-A) associada à Covid-19. Na Nota Técnica emitida pelo Ministério da Saúde consta uma breve contextualização, objetivos da notificação, quadro clínico de SIM-A, definições de casos, exames complementares, exames específicos para COVID-19, manejo clínico, notificação e registro. Este relatório visa avaliar e emitir um parecer técnico embasado em evidências científicas sobre a disponibilização do medicamento Imunoglobulina Humana intravenosa (IGHIV) para o tratamento de SIM-A, fluxo de acesso ao medicamento e avaliação do impacto orçamentário, para posterior elaboração de um Protocolo Estadual para esta síndrome, destinado aos profissionais da saúde, pacientes e gestores do estado de Santa Catarina.

Prevalência de diabéticos, hipertensos e atividade física em Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul / Prevalencia de diabéticos, hipertensos y actividad física en Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul / Prevalence of diabetic, hypertensive, and physical activity in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul

Objetivo: identificar a prevalência de diabéticos e hipertensos, a partir dos 18 anos, de acordo com perfil sociodemográfico e de prática de atividade física, no município de Porto Alegre, capital do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Método: estudo com dados da Vigilância de Fatores de Risco e proteção para Doenças Crônicas por Inquérito Telefônico do ano de 2019, do tipo transversal, com análise bivariada. Resultados: dos 2.058 indivíduos, predominou o sexo feminino (65,5%), com mais de 60 anos (55,1%), escolaridade até o primeiro grau (31,2%) e que praticavam atividade física (93,4%). A prevalência de diabéticos foi de 279 (13,6%) e de hipertensos, 866 (42,1%). Idade, escolaridade, frequência e duração da atividade física foi associada à Hipertensão. E idade, e escolaridade, com Diabetes. Conclusão: houve alta prevalência de hipertensos e baixa frequência, na prática de atividade física.(AU)

Objective: to identify the prevalence of diabetic and hypertensive patients aged 18 years and over, according to the sociodemographic profile and physical activity practice, in the city of Porto Alegre, capital of the State of Rio Grande of Sul. Method: study with surveillance data of Risk and Protection Factors for Chronic Diseases by Telephone Survey of the year 2019, cross-sectional, with bivariate analysis. Results: of the 2,058 individuals, there was a predominance of females (65.5%), aged over 60 (55.1%), educated up to elementary school (31.2%) and practiced physical activity (93.4 %). The prevalence of diabetics was 279 (13.6%) and of hypertensive patients, 866 (42.1%). Age, education, frequency, and duration of physical activity were associated with Hypertension. And age, and education, with Diabetes. Conclusion: there was high prevalence of hypertensive and low frequency in the practice of physical activity.(AU)

Objetivo: identificar la prevalencia de pacientes diabéticos e hipertensos de 18 años y más, según perfil sociodemográfico y práctica de actividad física, en la ciudad de Porto Alegre, capital del estado de Rio Grande do Sul. Método: estudio con datos de vigilancia de Factores de Riesgo y Protección de Enfermedades Crónicas por Encuesta Telefónica del año 2019, transversal, con análisis bivariado. Resultados: de los 2.058 individuos, hubo predominio del sexo femenino (65,5%), mayores de 60 años (55,1%), con estudios hasta primaria (31,2%) y actividad física practicada (93,4%). La prevalencia de diabéticos fue 279 (13,6%) y de hipertensos, 866 (42,1%). La edad, la educación, la frecuencia y la duración de la actividad física se asociaron con la hipertensión. Y edad y educación, con la diabetes. Conclusión: hubo una alta prevalencia de hipertensos y baja frecuencia en la práctica de actividad física.(AU)