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

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

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

Perfil de óbitos por dengue (2015-2023) em cidade paulista: desafios para a saúde pública / Dengue death profile (2015-2023) in a são paulo municipality: challenges for public health / Perfil de muertes por dengue (2015-2023) en una ciudad del interior del estado de são paulo: desafíos para la salud pública

O número de casos de dengue no continente americano, no primeiro semestre de 2023, superou o total de casos de 2022 e o Brasil lidera com 2,3 milhões de ocorrências da doença e 769 mortes. A dengue se expande no mundo e já é considerada endêmica em mais de 100 países. Este estudo objetiva caracterizar o perfil dos óbitos por dengue, no período de 2015 a 2023, em uma cidade do interior do estado de São Paulo. Este é um estudo transversal, retrospectivo e descritivo, com análise de dados secundários do Sistema Nacional de Notificação (Sinan), Sistema de Mortalidade (SIM) e banco de dados dos óbitos por dengue, do comitê de mortalidade da vigilância epidemiológica municipal. A capacidade das equipes de saúde em identificar os sinais e sintomas ocorreu em apenas 42,9% dos casos antes da internação e do óbito, seguida por no dia do óbito (11,7%) e após o óbito (8,8%). A mortalidade por dengue predominou em indivíduos do sexo masculino (51,4%), com idade mediana de 74 anos. A análise dos dados demonstrou que o manejo clínico da dengue ainda é desafiador para a equipe de saúde, que precisa se manter permanentemente capacitada para o reconhecimento dos sintomas, sinais de alarme e gravidade, para a correta condução de cada caso, visando a redução da mortalidade.

In the first half of 2023, the number of dengue cases in the Americas surpassed the total for 2022, with Brazil leading the list with 2.3 million disease occurrences and 769 deaths. Dengue is expanding globally and is already considered endemic in more than 100 countries. This study characterizes the profile of dengue deaths from 2015 to 2023 in a municipality of São Paulo. A cross-sectional, retrospective, and descriptive study was conducted with secondary data obtained from the National Notification System (SINAN), Mortality System (SIM), and dengue death database of the municipal epidemiological surveillance mortality committee. Only in 42.9% of cases were the health teams able to identify the signs and symptoms before hospitalization and death, followed by after death (8.8%) and on the day of death (11.7%). Dengue mortality predominated among male individuals (51.4%) with a median age of 74 years. Data analysis showed that the clinical management of dengue remains challenging for health teams, who needs continuous training to recognize the signs and symptoms, warning signs, and severity for correct management of each case, aiming to reduce mortality.

Los casos de dengue en las Américas superaron en el primer semestre de 2023 al total de casos de 2022, en el cual lidera Brasil con 2,3 millones de notificaciones de la enfermedad y 769 muertes. El dengue se expande por el mundo, y más de 100 países ya lo consideran una endemia. Este estudio tiene como objetivo caracterizar el perfil de las muertes por dengue en el período de 2015 a 2023, en una ciudad del interior del estado de São Paulo. Se trata de un estudio transversal, retrospectivo y descriptivo con análisis de datos secundarios del Sistema Nacional de Notificación (SINAN), del Sistema de Mortalidad (SIM) y de la Base de Datos de Muertes por Dengue del Comité de Mortalidad de la Vigilancia Epidemiológica Municipal. Los equipos de salud fueron capaces de identificar los signos y síntomas en solo el 42,9% de los casos antes de la hospitalización y de la muerte, seguida del día de la muerte (11,7%) y tras la muerte (8,8%). La mortalidad por dengue predominó en individuos del sexo masculino (51,4%) con una edad media de 74 años. El análisis de datos demostró que el manejo clínico del dengue sigue siendo un desafío para el equipo de salud, quien necesita mantenerse capacitado continuamente para detectar los signos y síntomas, señales de alarma y gravedad, para la correcta conducción de cada caso, con el objetivo de reducir la mortalidad.

Correlato neurobiológico de los síntomas premotores del parkinson: el origen en la teoría de Braak / Neurobiological correlate of parkinson's premotor symptoms: the origin in Braak's theory / Correlação neurobiológica dos sintomas pré-motores de parkinson: a origem na teoria de Braak

El diagnóstico de enfermedad de Parkinson (ED) se basa en las principales manifestaciones motoras: bradicinesia en combinación con temblor en reposo, rigidez o ambos. Cuando se realiza el diagnóstico basado en la sintomatología motora clínica típica ya se han perdido hasta el 60 % de las neuronas dopaminérgicas de la sustancia negra pars compacta mesencefálica. La identificación de los síntomas premotores son un marcador temprano para sospechar la aparición futura de la enfermedad, así como su progresión y gravedad. La hipótesis sobre la patogénesis que mejor expone la progresión de la enfermedad es la teoría de Braak. Esta se basa en la aparición y presencia de cuerpos de Lewy en diferentes estructuras anatómicas, las cuales representadas en cada uno de sus seis estadios y podrían ser la explicación biológica de los síntomas premotores, motores y no motores. La detección temprana de los síntomas premotores puede tener repercusiones positivas en el enfoque, seguimiento, diagnóstico y tratamiento de la EP. El propósito de este artículo es identificar las aproximaciones neurológicas descritas por la teoría de Braak para los síntomas premotores de la enfermedad de Parkinson de acuerdo con la literatura publicada en los últimos 20 años.

The diagnosis of Parkinson's disease (PD) is based on the main motor manifestations: bradykinesia in combination with tremor at rest, rigidity, or both. When the diagnosis is made based on typical clinical motor symptoms, up to 60 % of the dopaminergic neurons of the mesencephalic substantia nigra pars compacta have already been lost. The identification of premotor symptoms is an early marker to suspect the future appearance of the disease, as well as its progression and severity. The hypothesis about the pathogenesis that best exposes the progression of the disease is Braak's theory. It is based on the appearance and presence of Lewy bodies in different anatomical structures, which are represented in each of its six stages and could be the biological explanation biological of premotor, motor, and non-motor symptoms. Early detection of premotor symptoms can have positive repercussions in the approach, follow-up, diagnosis and treatment of PD. The purpose of this article is to identify the neurological approaches described by Braak's theory for the premotor symptoms of Parkinson's disease according to the literature published in the last 20 years.

O diagnóstico da doença de Parkinson (DP) baseia-se nas principais manifestações motoras: bradicinesia combinada com tremor de repouso, rigidez ou ambos. Quando o diagnóstico é feito com base em sintomas clínicos motores típicos, até 60% dos neurônios dopaminérgicos da substância negra pars compacta mesencefálica já foram perdidos. A identificação de sintomas pré-motores é um marcador precoce para suspeitar do futuro aparecimento da doença, bem como da sua progressão e gravidade. A hipótese sobre a patogênese que melhor expõe a progressão da doença é a teoria de Braak. Isto se baseia no aparecimento e presença de corpos de Lewy em diferentes estruturas anatômicas, que estão representados em cada uma de suas seis etapas e podem ser a explicação biológica dos sintomas pré-motores, motores e não motores. A detecção precoce de sintomas pré-motores pode repercutir positivamente na abordagem, acompanhamento, diagnóstico e tratamento da DP. O objetivo deste artigo é identificar as abordagens neurológicas descritas pela teoria de Braak para os sintomas pré-motores da doença de Parkinson de acordo com a literatura publicada nos últimos 20 anos.

Elementos clínicos para el diagnóstico de apendicitis aguda en la atención primaria de salud

La apendicitis aguda se manifiesta, en ocasiones, con una variada e inespecífica presentación clínica, lo que dificulta su diagnóstico oportuno y favorece el riesgo de complicaciones. El objetivo es actualizar la información relacionada con las características clínicas de la apendicitis aguda, para lo que se realizó una revisión no sistemática de la literatura hasta abril del año 2022. Se revisaron artículos, libros especializados y citas bibliográficas de estudios elegidos, 20 de los cuales fueron seleccionados para la revisión. Mediante esta investigación se concluye que la primera y principal manifestación clínica es el dolor abdominal. El paciente debe someterse a una cuidadosa exploración física, incluyendo un examen rectal si lo precisa, y en las mujeres a un examen ginecológico si existiera duda diagnóstica.

Acute appendicitis is manifested, sometimes, with a varied and unspecific clinical presentation, which makes difficult its timely diagnosis and favors the complication risk. The objective is to update the information related to the clinical characteristics of acute appendicitis, for which a non-systematic review of the literature was carried out until April 2022. Articles, specialized books and bibliographic citations of selected studies were reviewed, 20 of which were chosen for the review. Through this research it is concluded that the first and main manifestation is abdominal pain. The patient should undergo a rigorous physical examination, including a rectal examination if necessary, and in the case of women, a gynecological examination if there is diagnostic doubt.

Primary Health Care nurses' role in treating Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction / Papel de la enfermera de Atención Primaria de Salud en el tratamiento de la Disfunción del Tracto Urinario Inferior / Atuação do enfermeiro da Atenção Primária à Saúde no tratamento da Disfunção do Trato Urinário Inferior

ABSTRACT Objective: To understand Primary Health Care nurses' role in treating Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction. Method: Cross-sectional multi-methodological research, composed of quantitative and qualitative steps, independently and sequentially. Data collected remotely, through a questionnaire and focus group, analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis by Braun and Clarke, respectively. The project was approved under Opinion 22691119.0.0000.0030. Results: A total of 145 nurses participated in the study in the quantitative step and 20 in the qualitative step, working in Primary Health Care in Brazil. Of the 93.1% nurses who reported having already cared for people with Urinary Tract Dysfunction, only 54.4% provided guidance, mainly for training the pelvic floor muscles. Conclusion: Even though they have legal support and access to demand, nurses do not have the knowledge to offer conservative treatment for Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction. Despite this, they were motivated to do so as long as they received specific training.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Comprender el papel del enfermero de Atención Primaria de Salud en el tratamiento de la Disfunción del Tracto Urinario Inferior. Método: Investigación transversal multimetodológica, compuesta por etapas cuantitativas y cualitativas, de forma independiente y secuencial. Datos recopilados de forma remota, a través de un cuestionario y un grupo focal, analizados mediante estadística descriptiva y análisis temático de Braun y Clarke, respectivamente. El proyecto fue aprobado bajo Opinión 22691119.0.0000.0030. Resultados: Participaron del estudio 145 enfermeros en la etapa cuantitativa y 20 en la cualitativa, actuando en la Atención Primaria de Salud en Brasil. Del 93,1% de los enfermeros que afirmaron haber atendido ya a personas con Disfunción del Tracto Urinario, sólo el 54,4% brindó orientación, principalmente para el entrenamiento de los músculos del suelo pélvico. Conclusión: Incluso con apoyo legal y acceso a la demanda, los enfermeros no tienen el conocimiento para ofrecer tratamiento conservador para la Disfunción del Tracto Urinario Inferior. Pese a ello, estaban motivados para hacerlo siempre que recibieran una formación específica.

RESUMO Objetivo: Compreender a atuação dos enfermeiros da Atenção Primaria à Saúde no tratamento da Disfunção do Trato Urinário Inferior. Método: Pesquisa transversal multi-metodológica, composta por etapas quantitativa e qualitativa, de forma independente e sequencial. Dados coletados de forma remota, por meio de questionário e grupo focal, analisados por estatística descritiva e análise temática de Braun e Clarke, respectivamente. O projeto foi aprovado sob Parecer no. 22691119.0.0000.0030. Resultados: Participaram do estudo 145 enfermeiros na etapa quantitativa e 20 na qualitativa, atuantes na Atenção Primária à Saúde do Brasil. Dos 93,1% enfermeiros que referiram já terem atendido pessoas com Disfunção do Trato Urinário, apenas 54,4% prestaram orientações, sendo principalmente para treinamento da musculatura do assoalho pélvico. Conclusão: Mesmo possuindo respaldo legal e acesso à demanda, os enfermeiros não têm conhecimento para oferecer tratamento conservador para Disfunção do Trato Urinário Inferior. Apesar disso, mostraram-se motivados para tal atuação desde que recebam capacitação específica.

Molecular characterization and incidence of new tospovirus: Soybean Vein Necrosis Virus (SVNV) in Egypt / Caracterização molecular e incidência de novo tospovírus: Vírus da Necrose da Veia da Soja (SVNV) no Egito

Abstract Field survey study was conducted season (2017). Soybeans and weeds were weekly sampled randomly. Thrips adults were identified and counted. Detection of the virus isolate and the natural incidence was determined using; Mechanical transmission, host range, DAS-ELISA, RT-PCR. The natural incidence thrips individuals was detected depending on the SVNV% in thrips individuals and weeds hosts. Ten thrips species were associated with soybean plants in the field. The most abundant species was T. tabaci, average 256.5 average no.of individuals, followed by F. occidentalis (142.5 average no. of individuals), then N. variabilis (86.6/ average no. of individuals). Fourteen thrips species occurred on 5 legumes field crops and 41 weed plant species within soybean field. The highest average number 40.6.of individuals were recorded on Ammi majus. While the lowest one 3.3 average no. of individuals were on Urtica urens. Only 21diagnostic plant species were susceptible to infection with SVNV. G. max and Vigna radiate, were the highest percentage of infection 80% followed by V. unguilata & N. benthamiana, 75%. Egyptian isolate of Soybean vein necrosis virus (SVNV) in this study showed a high degree of similarity and it is closely related to TSWV from Egypt (DQ479968) and TCSV from USA (KY820965) with nucleotide sequence identity of 78%. Four thrips species transmitted SVNV (F. fusca 4.0%, F. schultzei 4.3%, F. tritici 3.3% and N. variabilis 68.0% transmission). Both C. phaseoli and M. sjostedti can acquire the virus but unable to transmit it. The following species; T. tabaci, F. occidentalis, S. dorsallis and T. palmi cannot acquire or transmit SVNV. The incidence of SVNV in the field started by the end of July then increased gradualy from 12.7 to 71.3% by the end of the season. In conclusion, few thrips individuals invaded soybean crops are enough to transmit high rate of SVNV within the crop. Furthermore, several vector species are also abundant on weeds, which are the major sources of soybean viruses transmitted to the crops. This information might be important for control and reduce the incidence of SVNV infection.

Resumo O estudo de pesquisa de campo foi realizado na temporada (2017). A soja e as ervas daninhas foram amostradas semanalmente de forma aleatória. Tripes adultos foram identificados e contados. A detecção do vírus isolado e a incidência natural foram determinadas usando transmissão mecânica, gama de hospedeiros, DAS-ELISA, RT-PCR. A incidência natural de tripes em indivíduos foi detectada dependendo da % de SVNV em tripes e hospedeiros infestantes. Dez espécies de tripes foram associadas a plantas de soja no campo. A espécie mais abundante foi T. tabaci, com média de 256,5 número médio de indivíduos, seguida por F. occidentalis (142,5) e N. variabilis (86,6 / número médio de indivíduos). Catorze espécies de tripes ocorreram em 5 culturas de leguminosas e 41 espécies de plantas daninhas dentro de campos de soja. O maior número médio de 40,6 indivíduos foi registrado em Ammi majus. Enquanto o mais baixo, 3,3 número médio de indivíduos, foi no Urtica urens. Apenas 21 espécies de plantas diagnosticadas foram suscetíveis à infecção com SVNV. G. max e Vigna radiate foram os maiores percentuais de infecção, 80%, seguidos por V. unguilata e N. benthamiana, 75%. O isolado egípcio neste estudo mostrou um alto grau de similaridade e está intimamente relacionado ao TSWV do Egito (DQ479968) e ao TCSV dos EUA (KY820965), com identidade de sequência de nucleotídeos de 78%. Quatro espécies de tripes transmitiram SVNV (F. fusca 4,0%, F. schultzei 4,3%, F. tritici 3,3% e N. variabilis 68,0% de transmissão). Tanto C. phaseoli quanto M. sjostedti podem adquirir o vírus, mas não podem transmiti-lo. As seguintes espécies, T. tabaci, F. occidentalis, S. dorsallis e T. palmi não podem adquirir ou transmitir SVNV. A incidência de SVNV no campo, iniciada no final de julho, aumentou gradativamente de 12,7 para 71,3% no final da temporada. Em conclusão, poucos indivíduos de tripes invadiram a cultura da soja e são suficientes para transmitir alta taxa de SVNV dentro da cultura. Além disso, várias espécies de vetores também abundam em ervas daninhas, que são as principais fontes dos vírus da soja transmitidos às lavouras. Essas informações podem ser importantes para controlar e reduzir a incidência de infecção por SVNV.

Cadmium toxicity symptoms and uptake mechanism in plants: a review / Sintomas de toxicidade de cádmio e mecanismo de absorção em plantas: uma revisão

Cadmium (Cd) is one of non-essential heavy metals which is released into environment naturally or anthropogenically. It is highly persistent toxic metals that are exceptionally distressing industrial and agriculture activities by contaminating soil, water and food. Its long-duration endurance in soil and water results in accumulation and uptake into plants, leading to the food chain. This becomes a serious global problem threatening humans and animals as food chain components. Living organisms, especially humans, are exposed to Cd through plants as one of the main vegetative food sources. This review paper is concentrated on the symptoms of the plants affected by Cd toxicity. The absorption of Cd triggers several seen and unseen symptoms by polluted plants such as stunted growth, chlorosis, necrosis and wilting. Apart from that, factors that affect the uptake and translocation of Cd in plants are elaborated to understand the mechanism that contributes to its accumulation. By insight of Cd accumulation, this review also discussed the phytoremediation techniques-phytoextraction, phytostimulation, phytostabilization, phytovolatization and rhizofiltration in bioremediating the Cd.

O cádmio (Cd) é um dos metais pesados ​​não essenciais que é liberado no meio ambiente de forma natural ou antropogênica. São metais tóxicos altamente persistentes que prejudicam excepcionalmente as atividades industriais e agrícolas, contaminando o solo, a água e os alimentos. Sua resistência de longa duração no solo e na água resulta em acúmulo e absorção pelas plantas, levando à cadeia alimentar. Isso se torna um sério problema global que ameaça humanos e animais como componentes da cadeia alimentar. Os organismos vivos, principalmente os humanos, são expostos ao Cd através das plantas como uma das principais fontes de alimento vegetativo. Este artigo de revisão concentra-se nos sintomas das plantas afetadas pela toxicidade do Cd. A absorção de Cd desencadeia vários sintomas visíveis e invisíveis por plantas poluídas, como crescimento atrofiado, clorose, necrose e murcha. Além disso, são elaborados fatores que afetam a absorção e translocação de Cd nas plantas para entender o mecanismo que contribui para o seu acúmulo. A partir do conhecimento do acúmulo de Cd, esta revisão também discutiu as técnicas de fitorremediação - fitoextração, fitoestimulação, fitoestabilização, fitovolatização e rizofiltração na biorremediação do Cd.

Clinical features and serum lipidomic profile of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and healthy individuals in the overweight population / 临床肝胆病杂志

objectiveTo investigate the differences in clinical indices and lipid metabolism between the patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease （NAFLD） and healthy individuals in the overweight population. MethodsIn this study， body mass index （BMI）>23 kg/m2 was defined as overweight. A total of 62 overweight patients with NAFLD who were admitted to Putuo Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from August 2020 to April 2021 were enrolled as overweight NAFLD group， and 50 overweight individuals who underwent physical examination during the same period of time were enrolled as control group. Clinical information and blood biochemical parameters were recorded for all subjects. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to analyze serum lipidomic profile， and principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis were used to perform the multivariate statistical analysis of lipidomic data. The chi-square test was used for comparison of categorical data between two groups， and the independent-samples t test or the Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used for comparison of continuous data between two groups. ResultsThe overweight NAFLD group had a significantly higher BMI than the overweight control group （Z=-2.365， P=0.018）. As for serological markers， compared with the overweight control group， the overweight NAFLD group had significantly higher levels of red blood cells， hemoglobin， hematocrit， uric acid， total protein， globulin， alkaline phosphatase， gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase， alanine aminotransferase， aspartate aminotransferase， cholinesterase， low-density lipoprotein， total cholesterol， triglyceride， apolipoprotein B， and blood glucose （all P<0.05）. The lipidomic analysis showed that there was a significant difference in lipid metabolism between the two groups， and a total of 493 differentially expressed lipids were identified （VIP value>1， P<0.05）， among which 143 lipids were significantly upregulated and 350 lipids were significantly downregulated in the overweight NAFLD group. The mean total fatty acid content in the overweight NAFLD group was 3.6 times that in the overweight control group. Compared with the overweight control group， the overweight NAFLD group had a significant reduction in the content of triglyceride with>3 unsaturated bonds （P<0.001） and a significant increase in the content of triglyceride with ≤3 unsaturated bonds （P<0.001）. ConclusionCompared with healthy overweight individuals， overweight NAFLD patients tend to have significant abnormalities in some biochemical parameters and lipid metabolites， with significant increases in the content of fatty acid in blood and the types of saturated fat chains in triglycerides.

Clinical features of critically ill pregnant and parturient women infected with chronic hepatitis B virus： An analysis of 41 cases / 临床肝胆病杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the clinical features and outcomes of critically ill pregnant and parturient women with chronic hepatitis B virus （HBV） infection， and to provide clinical experience for the rescue of critically ill pregnant and parturient women and the prevention and treatment of the severe exacerbation of liver disease. MethodsA total of 41 pregnant and parturient women with chronic HBV infection who were admitted to Department of Critical Care Medicine， Nanjing Second Hospital， from March 2013 to March 2023 were enrolled in this study， and their clinical data were collected through the electronic medical record system of hospital to summarize the main causes of transfer to the intensive care unit （ICU）， the causes of death， and treatment. The independent-samples t test was used for comparison of normally distributed continuous data between two groups， and the Mann-Whitney U test was used for comparison of non-normally distributed continuous data between two groups. The chi-square test was used for comparison of categorical data between two groups. ResultsAmong the 41 patients， 13 （31.71%） did not receive regular antenatal examination and 8 （19.51%） with a high viral load （HBV DNA ≥2×105 IU/mL） did not receive antiviral therapy. Cesarean section was the main mode of delivery in 32 patients （78.05%）； 23 patients （56.10%） had premature delivery， and 5 patients died （12.20%）. The top three causes of transfer to the ICU were liver failure， postpartum hemorrhage， and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Liver failure mainly occurred in late pregnancy， with hepatic encephalopathy as the most common complication （28.57%） and intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy as the most common comorbidity （21.43%）； among the 14 patients with liver failure， 6 （42.86%） received regular antenatal examination， and 13 （92.86%） did not receive antiviral therapy before admission. The mean length of ICU stay was 3.31±1.65 days for the patients with postpartum hemorrhage， among whom the patients with severe liver disease had coagulation disorders before delivery， which were difficult to correct after 48 hours of treatment. ConclusionPregnant and parturient women with chronic HBV infection tend to have complex conditions and a relatively high mortality rate. For pregnant and parturient women with chronic HBV infection， assessment of liver status， regular antenatal examination， and timely antiviral therapy are of vital importance to reduce severe exacerbation and mortality rate.

Encephalopathy in hospitalized patients with Coronavirus disease 2019: A single-center study

Objective@#This study aimed to determine the incidence of encephalopathy among hospitalized patients with COVID-19. @*Methods@#This was a retrospective observational study conducted in a tertiary hospital in Cebu City, Philippines. This study is a complete enumeration of all records of adult patients admitted for COVID-19 detected through polymerase chain reaction from March 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021. The cases were then classified as to the presence or absence of encephalopathy. @*Results@#The study determined that 6 in every 1000 admitted COVID-19 patients developed encephalopathy. The clinico-demographic profile of patients with encephalopathy were mostly elderly with a mean age of 67, males (55.7%), and obese stage I (61.1%). Encephalopathy was more likely to develop in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (80.1%) and coronary artery disease (40.0%). Most patients who did not have encephalopathy however had a history of CVD. Most patients (66.7%) who developed encephalopathy were dyspneic on presentation. Laboratory examination results showed an increase in fasting blood sugar and elevated levels of LDH, CRP, serum ferritin, procalcitonin, and D-dimer. Majority of patients (66.7%) with encephalopathy were intubated. Taking into consideration the stage of infection and the incidence of encephalopathy, most patients (66.6%) were in the hyperinflammatory stage. The number of hospitalization days and severity of illness did not have any association with developing encephalopathy. Dichotomous categorization of outcomes into deceased and discharged showed that clinical outcomes and the development of encephalopathy were significantly associated, with 66.7% of patients with encephalopathy expiring during their course of hospitalization.@*Conclusion@#The incidence of encephalopathy among admitted COVID-19 patients was 6 in every 1000 patients. Encephalopathy was more common in elderly males who were obese with type 2 diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease. The most common presentation of patients who developed encephalopathy was dyspnea. Collated laboratory results showed an increase in fasting blood sugar and elevated levels of LDH, CRP, serum ferritin, procalcitonin, and D-dimer. Majority of patients with encephalopathy were intubated and were in the hyperinflammatory stage of COVID-19 infection. Dichotomous categorization of outcomes into deceased and discharged showed that clinical outcomes and the development of encephalopathy were significantly associated, with most patients with encephalopathy expiring during their course of hospitalization.

Effects of Residential Proximity to Industrial Zone on Respiratory Symptoms among Residents in Parit Raja, Batu Pahat

@#Introduction: The industrial park in the district of Parit Raja, Batu Pahat resulted in rapid growth of the town during the last 20 years and has been a reason of concern that this park also has contributed greatly to the problem of air pollution. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between industrial air pollution and respiratory symptoms in adults living in the Parit Raja. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was undertaken among residents in the district of Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia. A total of 110 residents aged between 19 and 65 years were randomly selected and information on personal characteristics and respiratory symptoms was obtained through a validated questionnaire. The prevalence of respiratory symptoms was compared between residents recruited from the areas situated about 5km radius of the industrial park (exposed) and >5km radius from the industrial park (comparative). Results: A total of 34.5% and 25.5% of adults from the exposed group reported experiencing coughing for the last 3 months and chest tightness for the last 3 years. The logistic regression models showed that symptoms of coughing was associated with the exposed group (aOR=6.34, 95% CI=2.08-19.35), male respondents (aOR=3.18, 95% CI=1.10-9.16) and who stay in Part Raja for more than 14 years (aOR=3.16, 95% CI=1.14-8.79). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that long-term air pollution exposures are consistently associated with respiratory symptoms in residents living in the proximity of industrial parks. Therefore, public health initiatives that aim to provide more conducive environment are needed, especially for residents living near industrial parks.

Effectiveness of Tocilizumab in COVID-19 patients with pneumonia: A systematic review

Background and Objective@#COVID-19 contributes significantly to global morbidity and mortality. Age-related comorbidities elevate the risk of severe cases. Studies have recently demonstrated that widely available medications, including tocilizumab (TCZ), can manage severe symptoms. However, its effectiveness is unclear, particularly among the older population. Therefore, this review aimed to evaluate TCZ’s efficacy in managing severe pneumonia in individuals aged 50 and older.@*Methods@#We systematically search several databases and gray literature including Web of Science, CINAHL, Academic Search Complete, PsycINFO, PsycArticles, SocINDEX, CENTRAL/Cochrane Library, PubMed/MEDLINE for original research articles in English across several study designs published in the year 2020-2022. A narrative synthesis was conducted to summarize the evidence. We employed the NIH quality assessment tool for observational cohort studies to evaluate risk of bias. Additionally, we utilized GRADE to appraise the certainty of evidence.@*Results@#Among 539 screened articles, only five studies met the selection criteria. Tocilizumab's impact on severe COVID-19 pneumonia revealed a diverse effect on mortality rate, with 29% in the TCZ group, and 40% in the controls died within 30 days of intubation (OR 0.61; 95% CI, 0.27-1.36). It is also reported that TCZ was not associated with mortality, despite faster decline in pulmonary function and prolonged fever. Hospital mortality in the TCZ group was significantly lower than in the controls, and age over 60 was the only significant risk factor. Moreover, administering TCZ reduced mechanical ventilation needs, with 82% extubated compared to 53% in controls. However, 45% in TCZ group was associated with a higher ventilator-associated pneumonia rate than in the untreated group which was 20% (P < 0.001). Despite this, TCZ-treated patients had shorter hospital stays.@*Conclusions@#The effects of tocilizumab on reducing mortality risk and improving the survival rate of COVID-19 patients with pneumonia remained inconclusive. Yet, the majority of results suggested that giving tocilizumab leads to shorter hospital stays, lowers the requirement for mechanical ventilation, and decreases the likelihood of ICU transfer. Tocilizumab is linked to the incidence of secondary infections; hence, this medication should be closely monitored for side effects.

Clinical characteristics of patients with puerperal schizophrenia / 四川精神卫生

BackgroundWomen may develop severe symptoms of stress disorder following childbirth， which may be exposed to a risk of developing mental health problems， and even lead to the recurrence of the illness in female patients with schizophrenia， while comparatively limited research has been undertaken concerning the clinical characteristics and treatment of puerperal schizophrenia in China. ObjectiveTo explore the clinical characteristics of puerperal schizophrenia， so as to provide references for the clinical treatment. MethodsA total of 24 patients with puerperal schizophrenia who were hospitalized in the female ward of adult psychiatry department of the Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University from 2012 to 2020 and met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders， fourth edition （DSM-IV） diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia were included as puerperal group. Another 48 non-puerperal women with schizophrenia were concurrently enrolled as control group. Then the basic data， scores on Positive and Negative Symptom Scale （PANSS） and the discharge medication were recorded. ResultsThe percentages of newly onset and positive family history of psychosis in puerperal group were larger than those in control group， with statistical significance （χ2=9.321， 5.240， P<0.05 or 0.01）. Puerperal group scored higher on PANSS excitement factor （t=-2.220， P<0.05） and lower on negative factor （t=3.377， P<0.01） compared with control group. In terms of discharge medication， puerperal group reported a higher dosage of antipsychotic drugs （t=-2.095， P<0.05）， and a larger proportion of combined use of benzodiazepines or antidepressants （χ²=21.316， 5.114， P<0.05 or 0.01） compared with control group， with statistical significance. ConclusionPatients with puerperal schizophrenia display increased ratings of excitement symptoms and decreased ratings of negative symptoms， which necessitates the use of high doses of antipsychotic drugs， and combined use of benzodiazepines and antidepressants.

Relationship between metabolites of peripheral tryptophan-kynurenine metabolic pathway and clinical symptoms in patients with schizophrenia / 四川精神卫生

BackgroundSchizophrenia is a common severe mental disorder with complex pathogenesis. There are few studies on the correlation between kynurenine metabolites in peripheral serum and urine in schizophrenia. ObjectiveTo investigate the concentration of tryptophan-kynurenine metabolites and interleukin-6 （IL-6） in serum and urine in patients with schizophrenia， and their correlation with clinical symptoms， so as to explore potential biological characteristics related to schizophrenia. MethodsA total of 38 patients with schizophrenia who met the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders， fifth edition （DSM-5）， and were hospitalized or attended outpatient clinic at Hangzhou Seventh People's Hospital from December 2021 to December 2022 were included in the study. Additionally， 26 healthy individuals were concurrently recruited from the community of Hangzhou to serve as a control group. All participants were requested to complete the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale （PANSS）. The levels of tryptophan （TRP）， kynurenine （KYN）， kynurenic acid （KYNA）， quinolinic acid （QUIN）， picolinic acid （PIC）， xanthurenate and 5-hydroxytryptamine （5-HT） in both serum and urine were measured using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole linear ion trap mass spectrometry. Serum and urine IL-6 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to examine the correlation between serum and urinary KYN metabolites， as well as the correlation between metabolite levels and clinical symptoms in the patient group. ResultsPatients with schizophrenia had significantly higher level of IL-6 in serum （U=798.500， P<0.01） and lower level of PIC in urine （U=253.000， P=0.013） compared with the control group. Additionally， level of serum KYN was positively correlated with QUIN/KYNA ratio and QUIN/PIC ratio （r=0.562， 0.438， P<0.05） in patients with schizophrenia. 5-HT/KYN ratio in serum was positively correlated with PANSS total score and negative symptom subscale score （r=0.458， 0.455， P<0.01） in patients with schizophrenia. ConclusionSerum TRP-KYN pathway metabolite levels in patients with schizophrenia were associated with neurotoxic metabolite ratios in urine and the severity of negative symptoms. ［Funded by Zhejiang Medical and Health Science and Technology Program Exploratory （number， 2022KY990）］

Primary somesthetic cortex involvement in fibromyalgia: review of neuroimage studies / Envolvimento do córtex somestésico primário na fibromialgia: revisão de estudos de neuroimagem

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The mechanisms underlying nociplastic pain, such as fibromyalgia (FM), are not fully understood, however, it is believed that altered sensory processing and pain modulation play prominent roles in the maintenance of nociplastic pain. The hypothesis is that changes in the primary somesthetic cortex (S1) contribute to the generalized pain character of FM. The objective of this study was to evaluate the involvement of the primary somesthetic cortex in humans with fibromyalgia, as well as to investigate possible associations between S1 changes and clinical signs and symptoms of FM. CONTENTS: For this integrative review, the following databases were used: Pubmed and Web of Science, including observational studies carried out in humans with FM. In total, 541 studies were identified and four were included. The majority of studies are case-control studies, published between 2016 and 2022. In total, data from 161 individuals were included in this review. It was identified that there are morphological changes, hyperactivation and increased functional connectivity between S1 and periaqueductal gray matter and between S1 and anterior cingulate cortex. CONCLUSION: Patients with FM present morphological changes and hyperactivation in S1, as well as increased functional connectivity between S1 and periaqueductal gray matter and S1 and limbic system. Furthermore, different bilateral somatotropic subregions (legs, chest, fingers, hands, face and back) showed reduced functional connectivity in patients with FM. These regions are often presented as "tender points" in FM.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: Os mecanismos subjacentes à dor nociplástica, como a fibromialgia (FM), não são totalmente compreendidos, contudo acredita-se que o processamento sensorial e a modulação da dor alterados desempenham papéis proeminentes para a manutenção da dor nociplástica. Com a hipótese de que alterações no córtex somestésico primário (S1) contribuam para o caráter de dor generalizada da FM, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o envolvimento do córtex somestésico primário em humanos com FM, bem como investigar possíveis associações entre alterações de S1 com sinais e sintomas clínicos da FM. CONTEÚDO: Para esta revisão integrativa, foram utilizadas as seguintes bases de dados: Pubmed e Web of Science, incluindo estudos observacionais realizados em humanos com FM. No total, 541 estudos foram identificados e quatro foram incluídos. A maioria dos estudos são do tipo caso-controle, publicados entre 2016 e 2022. Ao todo, dados de 161 indivíduos foram incluídos. Foi identificado que há alterações morfológicas, hiperativação e aumento da conectividade funcional entre S1 e substância cinzenta periaquedutal e entre S1 e córtex cingulado anterior. CONCLUSÃO: Pacientes com FM apresentam alterações morfológicas e hiperativação em S1, bem como aumento da conectividade funcional entre S1 e substância cinzenta periaquedutal e S1 e sistema límbico. Ademais, diferentes sub-regiões somatotrópicas bilaterais (pernas, tórax, dedos, mãos, face e costas) apresentaram redução da conectividade funcional em pacientes com FM. Essas regiões são frequentemente apresentadas como "tender points" na FM.

Molecular characterization and incidence of new tospovirus: Soybean Vein Necrosis Virus (SVNV) in Egypt

Abstract Field survey study was conducted season (2017). Soybeans and weeds were weekly sampled randomly. Thrips adults were identified and counted. Detection of the virus isolate and the natural incidence was determined using; Mechanical transmission, host range, DAS-ELISA, RT-PCR. The natural incidence thrips individuals was detected depending on the SVNV% in thrips individuals and weeds hosts. Ten thrips species were associated with soybean plants in the field. The most abundant species was T. tabaci, average 256.5 average no.of individuals, followed by F. occidentalis (142.5 average no. of individuals), then N. variabilis (86.6/ average no. of individuals). Fourteen thrips species occurred on 5 legumes field crops and 41 weed plant species within soybean field. The highest average number 40.6.of individuals were recorded on Ammi majus. While the lowest one 3.3 average no. of individuals were on Urtica urens. Only 21diagnostic plant species were susceptible to infection with SVNV. G. max and Vigna radiate, were the highest percentage of infection 80% followed by V. unguilata & N. benthamiana, 75%. Egyptian isolate of Soybean vein necrosis virus (SVNV) in this study showed a high degree of similarity and it is closely related to TSWV from Egypt (DQ479968) and TCSV from USA (KY820965) with nucleotide sequence identity of 78%. Four thrips species transmitted SVNV (F. fusca 4.0%, F. schultzei 4.3%, F. tritici 3.3% and N. variabilis 68.0% transmission). Both C. phaseoli and M. sjostedti can acquire the virus but unable to transmit it. The following species; T. tabaci, F. occidentalis, S. dorsallis and T. palmi cannot acquire or transmit SVNV. The incidence of SVNV in the field started by the end of July then increased gradualy from 12.7 to 71.3% by the end of the season. In conclusion, few thrips individuals invaded soybean crops are enough to transmit high rate of SVNV within the crop. Furthermore, several vector species are also abundant on weeds, which are the major sources of soybean viruses transmitted to the crops. This information might be important for control and reduce the incidence of SVNV infection.

Resumo O estudo de pesquisa de campo foi realizado na temporada (2017). A soja e as ervas daninhas foram amostradas semanalmente de forma aleatória. Tripes adultos foram identificados e contados. A detecção do vírus isolado e a incidência natural foram determinadas usando transmissão mecânica, gama de hospedeiros, DAS-ELISA, RT-PCR. A incidência natural de tripes em indivíduos foi detectada dependendo da % de SVNV em tripes e hospedeiros infestantes. Dez espécies de tripes foram associadas a plantas de soja no campo. A espécie mais abundante foi T. tabaci, com média de 256,5 número médio de indivíduos, seguida por F. occidentalis (142,5) e N. variabilis (86,6 / número médio de indivíduos). Catorze espécies de tripes ocorreram em 5 culturas de leguminosas e 41 espécies de plantas daninhas dentro de campos de soja. O maior número médio de 40,6 indivíduos foi registrado em Ammi majus. Enquanto o mais baixo, 3,3 número médio de indivíduos, foi no Urtica urens. Apenas 21 espécies de plantas diagnosticadas foram suscetíveis à infecção com SVNV. G. max e Vigna radiate foram os maiores percentuais de infecção, 80%, seguidos por V. unguilata e N. benthamiana, 75%. O isolado egípcio neste estudo mostrou um alto grau de similaridade e está intimamente relacionado ao TSWV do Egito (DQ479968) e ao TCSV dos EUA (KY820965), com identidade de sequência de nucleotídeos de 78%. Quatro espécies de tripes transmitiram SVNV (F. fusca 4,0%, F. schultzei 4,3%, F. tritici 3,3% e N. variabilis 68,0% de transmissão). Tanto C. phaseoli quanto M. sjostedti podem adquirir o vírus, mas não podem transmiti-lo. As seguintes espécies, T. tabaci, F. occidentalis, S. dorsallis e T. palmi não podem adquirir ou transmitir SVNV. A incidência de SVNV no campo, iniciada no final de julho, aumentou gradativamente de 12,7 para 71,3% no final da temporada. Em conclusão, poucos indivíduos de tripes invadiram a cultura da soja e são suficientes para transmitir alta taxa de SVNV dentro da cultura. Além disso, várias espécies de vetores também abundam em ervas daninhas, que são as principais fontes dos vírus da soja transmitidos às lavouras. Essas informações podem ser importantes para controlar e reduzir a incidência de infecção por SVNV.

Cadmium toxicity symptoms and uptake mechanism in plants: a review

Abstract Cadmium (Cd) is one of non-essential heavy metals which is released into environment naturally or anthropogenically. It is highly persistent toxic metals that are exceptionally distressing industrial and agriculture activities by contaminating soil, water and food. Its long-duration endurance in soil and water results in accumulation and uptake into plants, leading to the food chain. This becomes a serious global problem threatening humans and animals as food chain components. Living organisms, especially humans, are exposed to Cd through plants as one of the main vegetative food sources. This review paper is concentrated on the symptoms of the plants affected by Cd toxicity. The absorption of Cd triggers several seen and unseen symptoms by polluted plants such as stunted growth, chlorosis, necrosis and wilting. Apart from that, factors that affect the uptake and translocation of Cd in plants are elaborated to understand the mechanism that contributes to its accumulation. By insight of Cd accumulation, this review also discussed the phytoremediation techniques-phytoextraction, phytostimulation, phytostabilization, phytovolatization and rhizofiltration in bioremediating the Cd.

Resumo O cádmio (Cd) é um dos metais pesados não essenciais que é liberado no meio ambiente de forma natural ou antropogênica. São metais tóxicos altamente persistentes que prejudicam excepcionalmente as atividades industriais e agrícolas, contaminando o solo, a água e os alimentos. Sua resistência de longa duração no solo e na água resulta em acúmulo e absorção pelas plantas, levando à cadeia alimentar. Isso se torna um sério problema global que ameaça humanos e animais como componentes da cadeia alimentar. Os organismos vivos, principalmente os humanos, são expostos ao Cd através das plantas como uma das principais fontes de alimento vegetativo. Este artigo de revisão concentra-se nos sintomas das plantas afetadas pela toxicidade do Cd. A absorção de Cd desencadeia vários sintomas visíveis e invisíveis por plantas poluídas, como crescimento atrofiado, clorose, necrose e murcha. Além disso, são elaborados fatores que afetam a absorção e translocação de Cd nas plantas para entender o mecanismo que contribui para o seu acúmulo. A partir do conhecimento do acúmulo de Cd, esta revisão também discutiu as técnicas de fitorremediação - fitoextração, fitoestimulação, fitoestabilização, fitovolatização e rizofiltração na biorremediação do Cd.

Factores de riesgo asociados al agravamiento clínico de los pacientes ingresados con enfermedad de Alzhéimer

Introducción: La principal causa de demencia degenerativa es la enfermedad de Alzhéimer. En la población cubana, una de cada cuatro personas de 65 años y más fallece por esta enfermedad u otra forma de demencia. Objetivo : Identificar los factores de riesgo asociados al agravamiento clínico de los pacientes ingresados con enfermedad de Alzhéimer en el Hospital Psiquiátrico Universitario Rene Vallejo Ortiz entre enero de 2013 y diciembre de 2022. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal. El universo estuvo integrado por todos los pacientes ingresados en la mencionada institución asistencial y docente. La muestra no probabilística y a criterio de los autores la integraron 77 pacientes adultos con el diagnóstico de la enfermedad en el periodo de estudio señalado. Las historias clínicas fueron la fuente secundaria de información. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva e inferencial. La información se resumió en tablas y gráficos. Resultados: El 90,6 % presentaban más de 60 años y más de la mitad eran del sexo masculino (54,5 %). La mayoría de los pacientes presentaron diversos síntomas asociados. Lo trastornos de personalidad y orientación se constataron en el 75,3 % mientras que los de memoria en el 72,7 %. Conclusiones: El agravamiento clínico luego del ingreso hospitalario se acentuó en aquellos pacientes sin escolaridad, solteros, desocupados, con enfermedades cerebro vasculares y presencia de familias disfuncionales presentaron. Los pacientes anémicos o con signos de irritación cortical focal en región frontoparietal con generalización secundaria presentaron mayoritariamente un empeoramiento clínico.

Introduction: The main cause of degenerative dementia is Alzheimer's disease. In the Cuban population, one in four people aged 65 and over dies from this disease or another form of dementia. Objective: To identify the risk factors associated with the clinical worsening of patients admitted with Alzheimer's disease at the Rene Vallejo Ortiz University Psychiatric Hospital. Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out. The universe was made up of all patients admitted to the aforementioned healthcare and teaching institution. The non-probabilistic sample and at the discretion of the authors was made up of 77 adult patients with the diagnosis of the disease in the indicated study period between January 2013 and December 2022. Medical records were the secondary source of information. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used. The information was summarized in tables and graphics. Results: 90.6% were over 60 years old and more than half were male (54.5%). Most patients presented various associated symptoms. Personality and orientation disorders were found in 75.3%, while memory disorders were found in 72.7%. Conclusions: The clinical worsening after hospital admission was accentuated in those patients without schooling, single, unemployed, with cerebrovascular diseases and presence of dysfunctional families. Anemic patients or patients with signs of focal cortical irritation in the frontoparietal region with secondary generalization mostly presented clinical worsening.

Evaluation of sinonasal-related quality of life of 49 patients undergoing endoscopic skull base surgery

Abstract Objective This study aimed to evaluate the sinonasal-related Quality of Life (QoL) in patients undergoing endoscopic skull base surgery. Methods A retrospective study was performed, including patients with benign and malignant tumors at a single institution. Each patient completed the 22-Item Sino-Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22) and the Empty Nose Syndrome 6 Item Questionnaires (ENS6Q) to assess their perceived QoL at least 2-months after treatment. Results Forty-nine patients were enrolled in this study. The average score was 25.1 (Stander Deviation [SD] 14.99) for SNOT-22 and 6.51 (SD = 5.58) for ENS6Q. Analysis of the overall results for the SNOT-22 showed that olfactory damage was the most serious syndrome. The most frequently reported high-severity sub-domains in SNOT-22 were nasal symptoms and sleep symptoms. Nasal crusting was the most severe item in ENS6Q according to the report. Nine patients (18.4%) had a score higher than 10.5 which indicates the high risk of Empty Nose Syndrome (ENS). SNOT-22 score was related to the history of radiotherapy (p < 0.05), while the ENS6Q score was not. Conclusions The possibility of patients suffering from ENS after nasal endoscopic skull base surgery is at a low level, although the nasal cavity structure is damaged to varying degrees. Meanwhile, patients undergoing endoscopic skull base surgery were likely to suffer nasal problems and sleep disorders. Patients who had received radiotherapy have a worse QoL than those without a history of radiotherapy. Level of evidence Level 3.

Alterações respiratórias em crianças expostas à poeira de resíduos de mineração em Brumadinho, Minas Gerais, Brasil: Projeto Bruminha / Respiratory changes in children exposed to dust from mining waste in Brumadinho, Minas Gerais State, Brazil: Bruminha Project / Alteraciones respiratorias en niños expuestos al polvo de residuos de la minería en Brumadinho, Minas Gerais, Brasil: Proyecto Bruminha

Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar a ocorrência de afecções respiratórias em crianças expostas à poeira de resíduos de mineração após o desastre do rompimento da barragem em Brumadinho, Minas Gerais, Brasil. A população de estudo incluiu crianças com idades entre 0 e 6 anos, residentes em três comunidades expostas à resíduos de poeira de mineração (Córrego do Feijão, Parque da Cachoeira e Tejuco) e uma comunidade não exposta (Aranha). A coleta de dados ocorreu entre 19 e 30 de julho de 2021, por meio de questionários que abordavam informações sociodemográficas e um inquérito recordatório sobre sinais, sintomas e doenças respiratórias. Foram avaliadas 217 crianças, sendo 119 das comunidades expostas e 98 da comunidade não exposta. Os residentes nas comunidades expostas relataram aumento na frequência de faxina em suas residências (p = 0,04) e no tráfego de veículos (p = 0,03). Entre as crianças de 4 anos, foi observada uma maior frequência de afecções das vias aéreas superiores (p = 0,01) e inferiores (p = 0,01), bem como de alergia respiratória (p = 0,05). O grupo exposto apresentou 1,5 vez mais relatos de alergia respiratória (75%; p = 0,02) em comparação com o não exposto (50,5%). Crianças que viviam nas comunidades expostas à poeira de resíduos apresentaram três vezes mais chance (OR ajustada = 3.63; IC95%: 1,37; 9,57) de ocorrência de alergia respiratória em comparação com as não expostas. Dois anos e seis meses após a ocorrência do desastre ambiental, as crianças das comunidades afetadas pelos resíduos das atividades de mineração e remediação permaneciam expostas à poeira com efeitos tóxicos sobre a saúde respiratória.

This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of respiratory diseases in children exposed to dust from mining waste after the Brumadinho dam disaster, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The study population included children aged 0-6 years, living in three communities exposed to mining waste dust (Córrego do Feijão, Parque da Cachoeira, and Tejuco) and one unexposed community (Aranha). Data were collected from July 19 to 30, 2021, using questionnaires that addressed sociodemographic information and a recall survey on signs, symptoms, and respiratory diseases. A total of 217 children were evaluated, 119 living in the exposed communities and 98 in the non-exposed community. The residents in the exposed communities reported an increase in the frequency of home cleaning (p = 0.04) and in vehicular traffic (p = 0.03). Among children aged four, a higher frequency of upper (p = 0.01) and lower (p = 0.01) airway disorders, as well as respiratory allergy (p = 0.05) was observed. The exposed group had 1.5 times more reports of respiratory allergy (75%; p = 0.02) compared to the non-exposed group (50.5%). Children living in communities exposed to waste dust were three times more likely (adjusted OR = 3.63; 95%CI: 1.37; 9.57) to have respiratory allergies than those not exposed. Two years and six months after the environmental disaster occurred, children living in the communities affected by waste from mining and remediation activities remained exposed to dust with harmful effects on respiratory health.

El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar la ocurrencia de enfermedades respiratorias en niños expuestos al polvo de residuos de la minería tras el desastre del colapso de la represa en Brumadinho, Minas Gerais, Brasil. La población de estudio incluyó niños que tenían entre 0 y 6 años, que viven en tres comunidades expuestas a residuos de polvo de la minería (Córrego do Feijão, Parque da Cachoeira y Tejuco) y una comunidad no expuesta (Aranha). Se recolectaron los datos entre el 19 y el 30 de julio de 2021, a través de cuestionarios que abordaban informaciones sociodemográficas y una encuesta recordatoria acerca de los señales, síntomas y enfermedades respiratorias. Se evaluaron 217 niños, de los cuales 119 viven en las comunidades expuestas y 98 viven en la comunidad no expuesta. Los residentes de las comunidades expuestas relataron un aumento en la frecuencia de limpieza de sus casas (p = 0,04) y en el tráfico de vehículos (p = 0,03). Entre los niños de 4 años, se observó una frecuencia más alta de enfermedades de las vías aéreas superiores (p = 0,01) e inferiores (p = 0,01), así como de alergia respiratoria (p = 0,05). El grupo expuesto presentó 1,5 veces más relatos de alergia respiratoria (el 75%; p = 0,02) en comparación con el grupo no expuesto (el 50,5%). Niños que vivían en las comunidades expuestas al polvo de residuos presentaron tres veces más probabilidad (OR ajustada = 3,63; IC95%: 1,37; 9,57) de ocurrencia de alergia respiratoria en comparación con los niños que no se expusieron. Dos años y seis meses tras el desastre ambiental, los niños que viven en las comunidades afectadas por los residuos de las actividades de minería y descontaminación permanecían expuestos al polvo con efectos tóxicos para la salud respiratoria.