Prevalência de Influenza A, vírus sincicial respiratório eSARS-CoV-2 em pacientes com síndrome respiratóriaaguda grave em Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul / Prevalence of Influenza A, respiratory syncytial virus andSARS-CoV-2 in patients with severe acute respiratorysyndrome in Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul

A síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SRAG) é caracterizada por sintomas de febre alta, tosse e dispneia, e, na maioria dos casos, relacionada a uma quantidade reduzida de agentes infecciosos. O objetivo foi avaliar a prevalência dos vírus respiratórios Influenza A (FluA), vírus sincicial respiratório (RSV) e do novo coronavírus (SARS-CoV-2) em pacientes com internação hospitalar por SRAG. Estudo transversal, com pacientes em internação hospitalar com SRAG entre novembro de 2021 e maio de 2022. Dados sociodemográficos e clínicos e amostras da nasofaringe foram coletados/as, as quais foram submetidas à extração de RNA e testadas quanto à positividade para Influenza A, RSV e SARS-CoV-2 por meio da técnica de PCR em tempo real pelo método SYBR Green. Foram incluídos 42 pacientes, sendo 59,5% do sexo feminino, 57,1% idosos, 54,8% com ensino fundamental. A maior parte dos pacientes reportou hábito tabagista prévio ou atual (54,8%), não etilista (73,8%) e 83,3% deles apresentavam alguma comorbidade, sendo hipertensão arterial sistêmica e diabetes mellitus tipo 2 as mais prevalentes. Um total de 10,5% dos pacientes testou positivo para FluA, nenhuma amostra positiva para RSV e 76,3% positivos para SARS-CoV-2. Na população estudada, SRAG com agravo hospitalar foi observado em maior proporção, em mulheres, idosos e pessoas com comorbidades, embora sem significância estatística, sendo o novo coronavírus o agente etiológico mais relacionado, o que evidencia a patogenicidade desse agente e suas consequências ainda são evidentes após quase 2 anos de período pandêmico.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is characterized by symptoms of high fever, cough and dyspnea, and is in most cases related to a reduced amount of infectious agents. The objective was to assess the prevalence of respiratory viruses Influenza A (FluA), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in patients hospitalized for SARS. Cross-sectional study, with patients hospitalized with SARS between November 2021 and May 2022. Sociodemographic and clinical data and nasopharyngeal samples were collected, which were subjected to RNA extraction and tested for positivity for Influenza A, RSV and SARS-CoV-2 using the real-time PCR technique using the SYBR Green method. 42 patients were included, 59.5% female, 57.1% elderly, 54.8% with primary education. Most patients reported previous or current smoking habits (54.8%), non-drinkers (73.8) and 83.3% of them had some comorbidity, with systemic arterial hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus being the most prevalent. A total of 10.5% of patients tested positive for FluA, no samples positive for RSV, and 76.3% positive for SARS-CoV-2. In the studied population, SARS with hospital injury was observed more frequently in women and the elderly, with associated comorbidities, with the new coronavirus being the most related etiological agent, which shows, although not statistically significant, that the pathogenicity of this agent and its consequences are still evident after almost 2 years of period pandemic.

Estresse percebido e sofrimento psíquico em gestoresde saúde na pandemia da Covid-19 / Perceived stress and psychic suffering in healthmanagers in the Covid-19 pandemic

Objetivo: analisar o nível de estresse percebido e sofrimento psíquico em gestores de saúde na pandemia da Covid-19. Método: estudo descritivo, transversal com abordagem quantitativa. A coleta ocorreu de abril a setembro de 2021, com 40 gestores de serviço de saúde. Utilizou-se para a coleta de dados um instrumento para caracterização sociodemográfica e ocupacional e as escalas "Perceived Stress Scale-14" e "Self Reporting Questionnaire" para avaliação do estresse percebido e sofrimento psíquico. Os dados coletados foram analisados no Statistical Package for the Social Sciences versão 22.0. O presente estudo faz parte de um projeto intitulado "Trabalhadores dos Serviços de Saúde Frente à Pandemia de Covid-19", aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa sob CAAE número 35260620.9.0000.5231. Resultados: a maioria dos profissionais eram do sexo feminino (90%, N=36), casados (70%, N=28), com filhos (80%, N=32), com média de idade de 45 anos e com pós--graduação (47,5%, N=19). A média dos escores relacionados ao estresse percebido foi 31,13 pontos (DP=3,77) sendo o mínimo 24 e máximo de 42 pontos. Com relação ao sofrimento psíquico, (40%, N=16) os gestores apresentaram prováveis casos de transtornos. A prática de atividades físicas e de lazer (p<0,05) tem papel importante na diminuição do estresse percebido e do sofrimento psíquico. Conclusão: os gestores em saúde apresentaram, durante a pandemia, estresse e sofrimento psíquico, resultados esses que devem ser considerados para promoção de autocuidado aos gestores de saúde, enfatizando a necessidade da realização de atividades físicas e de lazer.

Objective: to analyze the level of perceived stress and psychological suffering in health managers during the Covid-19 pandemic. Method: descriptive, cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. The collection took place from April to September 2021, with 40 health service managers. An instrument for socio-demographic and occupational characterization and the "Perceived Stress Scale-14" and "Self Reporting Questionnaire" scales were used for the assessment of perceived stress and psychic suffering. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 22.0. The present study is part of a project entitled "Health Service Workers in the Face of the Covid-19 Pandemic", approved by the Research Ethics Committee under CAAE number 35260620.9.0000.5231. Results: most professionals were female (90%, N=36), married (70%, N=28), with children (80%, N=32), with a mean age of 45 years and with a postgraduate degree. -graduation (47.5%, N=19). The average score related to perceived stress was 31.13 points (SD=3.77), with a minimum of 24 and a maximum of 42 points. With regard to psychic suffering, (40%, N=16) the managers presented probable cases of disorders. The practice of physical and leisure activities (p<0.05) plays an important role in reducing perceived stress and psychological distress. Conclusion: health managers presented, during the pandemic, stress and psychic suffering, results that should be considered for promoting self-care to health managers, emphasizing the need to carry out physical and leisure activities.Keywords: Health manager; Occupational stress; Covid-19; Coronavirus infections.

The Long-Term Loss of Smell and Taste in COVID-19 Patients ­ A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction: Olfactory symptoms have been reported as particular in COVID-19 patients. Objective: To synthesize and analyze the existing evidence on the monitoring loss of sense of smell and taste in COVID-19 patients, and for how long symptoms persist after the virus is no longer active in the organism. Methods: A search was implemented in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Science Direct, and Web of Science databases. This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to PRISMA, and the risk of bias was assessed through the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The review protocol is registered in PROSPERO. Results: Our systematic review included data from 14 articles with a total of 2143 participants. The most reported sensory symptom of COVID-19 was anosmia, which was detected in 1499 patients, being the only symptom to appear in all studies. Ageusia was detected in 595 patients, dysgeusia in 514 patients, and hyposmia in 209 patients. The studies provided the number of 729 patients with sensory symptoms during the acute COVID-19 infection of 15 days, and 1020 patients with lasting sensory symptoms, presenting sensory dysfunctions after the average latent period of 15 days of the acute COVID-19 infection. Conclusion: Evidence points to the loss or dysfunction of taste and smell as one of the symptoms of COVID-19 persisting for an average time of 15 days, with 44% of COVID-19 patients with persistent symptoms for more than 15 days. Nevertheless, most studies do not perform a follow-up with those patients. Therefore, further research on sensory symptoms and their follow-up is required.

Occupational stress and coping strategies of nursing staff in times of Covid-19

Introduction: The increase in the workload of health professionals and the degree of complexity of patients, attribute greater risk to psychosocial stress. Objective: To evaluate the associations between occupational stress, quality of life at work, and coping strategies by the hospital nursing team during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Cross sectional, quantitative study with convenience sampling, data collection from August to December 2020; in two units of the private hospital network, with sociodemographic, occupational and health questionnaires; visual analogue scale for assessing quality of life at work; Demand-Control-Support (DCS); Occupational Coping Scale. Results: The total sample consisted of 196 nursing professionals. There was significant certainty (negative, however, the dimension "Demand" of the DCS and QWL (<0.001, r=-0.367). Control over work-related work has a significant quality (but the "Control" dimension of the DCS and QWL (=0.025, r=0.160); and significantly negative, however, between the "Social Support" dimension of DCS and "Negative Equivalence" of Coping (p=0.003, r=-0.2013). Conclusion: The findings of this study allowed the correlation between occupational stress, coping and quality of life at work, showing that the lower the social support, the greater the use of avoidance strategies and consequently decline in quality of life at work. They also allowed us to identify the coping strategies used by the nursing staff and quality of life at work in the face of occupational stress during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Risk factors for acute kidney injury in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 / Fatores de risco para lesão renal aguda em pacientes hospitalizados com COVID-19

Abstract Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) occurs frequently in COVID-19 patients and is associated with greater morbidity and mortality. Knowing the risks of AKI allows for identification, prevention, and timely treatment. This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with AKI in hospitalized patients. Methods: A descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional, and analytical component study of adult patients hospitalized with COVID-19 from March 1 to December 31, 2020 was carried out. AKI was defined by the creatinine criteria of the KDIGO-AKI guidelines. Information, regarding risk factors, was obtained from electronic medical records. Results: Out of the 934 patients, 42.93% developed AKI, 60.59% KDIGO-1, and 9.9% required renal replacement therapy. Patients with AKI had longer hospital stay, higher mortality, and required more intensive care unit (ICU) admission, mechanical ventilation, and vasopressor support. Multivariate analysis showed that age (OR 1.03; 95% CI 1.02-1.04), male sex (OR 2.13; 95% CI 1.49-3.04), diabetes mellitus (DM) (OR 1.55; 95% CI 1.04-2.32), chronic kidney disease (CKD) (OR 2.07; 95% CI 1.06-4.04), C-reactive protein (CRP) (OR 1.02; 95% CI 1.00-1.03), ICU admission (OR 1.81; 95% CI 1.04-3.16), and vasopressor support (OR 7.46; 95% CI 3.34-16.64) were risk factors for AKI, and that bicarbonate (OR 0.89; 95% CI 0.84-0.94) and partial pressure arterial oxygen/inspired oxygen fraction index (OR 0.99; 95% CI 0.98-0.99) could be protective factors. Conclusions: A high frequency of AKI was documented in COVID-19 patients, with several predictors: age, male sex, DM, CKD, CRP, ICU admission, and vasopressor support. AKI occurred more frequently in patients with higher disease severity and was associated with higher mortality and worse outcomes.

RESUMO Introdução: Lesão renal aguda (LRA) ocorre frequentemente em pacientes com COVID-19 e associa-se a maior morbidade e mortalidade. Conhecer riscos da LRA permite a identificação, prevenção e tratamento oportuno. Este estudo teve como objetivo identificar fatores de risco associados à LRA em pacientes hospitalizados. Métodos: Realizou-se estudo descritivo, retrospectivo, transversal e de componente analítico de pacientes adultos hospitalizados com COVID-19 de 1º de março a 31 de dezembro, 2020. Definiu-se a LRA pelos critérios de creatinina das diretrizes KDIGO-LRA. Informações sobre fatores de risco foram obtidas de prontuários eletrônicos. Resultados: Dos 934 pacientes, 42,93% desenvolveram LRA, 60,59% KDIGO-1 e 9,9% necessitaram de terapia renal substitutiva. Pacientes com LRA apresentaram maior tempo de internação, maior mortalidade e necessitaram de mais internações em UTIs, ventilação mecânica e suporte vasopressor. A análise multivariada mostrou que idade (OR 1,03; IC 95% 1,02-1,04), sexo masculino (OR 2,13; IC 95% 1,49-3,04), diabetes mellitus (DM) (OR 1,55; IC 95% 1,04-2,32), doença renal crônica (DRC) (OR 2,07; IC 95% 1,06-4,04), proteína C reativa (PCR) (OR 1,02; IC 95% 1,00-1,03), admissão em UTI (OR 1,81; IC 95% 1,04-3,16) e suporte vasopressor (OR 7,46; IC 95% 3,34-16,64) foram fatores de risco para LRA, e que bicarbonato (OR 0,89; IC 95% 0,84-0,94) e índice de pressão parcial de oxigênio arterial/fração inspirada de oxigênio (OR 0,99; IC 95% 0,98-0,99) poderiam ser fatores de proteção. Conclusões: Documentou-se alta frequência de LRA em pacientes com COVID-19, com diversos preditores: idade, sexo masculino, DM, DRC, PCR, admissão em UTI e suporte vasopressor. LRA ocorreu mais frequentemente em pacientes com maior gravidade da doença e associou-se a maior mortalidade e piores desfechos.

Os reflexos da pandemia do novo coronavírus na judicialização do direito à saúde perante o Supremo Tribunal Federal / The effects of the novel coronavirus pandemic on the judicialization of the right to health before the Federal Supreme Court / Las reflexiones de la pandemia del nuevo coronavirus sobre la judicialización del derecho a la salud ante la Suprema Corte Federal

Objetivo: identificar se a situação pandêmica interferiu na extensão e no modo como as questões referentes ao direito à saúde foram apreciadas pelo Supremo Tribunal Federal. Metodologia: foi realizada pesquisa documental, que, após consulta na base de dados do Supremo Tribunal Federal, com o filtro pelo termo "saúde", retornou um total de 1.178 acórdãos, sendo 447 do período pré-pandêmico e 731 do período pandêmico, os quais foram analisados e classificados conforme a pertinência temática. Após os descartes da etapa de classificação, identificaram-se 70 acórdãos no período pré-pandêmico e 167 acórdãos no pandêmico que versam efetivamente sobre o direito à saúde. Resultados: a pandemia impôs inúmeros desafios ao sistema de saúde, de modo que o Poder Judiciário foi instado a se manifestar ante às controvérsias ora instauradas. Nessas manifestações, identificou-se que houve aumento nas demandas de controle concentrado e no quantitativo absoluto de decisões envolvendo o direito à saúde, bem como que qualitativamente, em geral, o padrão decisório anterior foi mantido, embora novos temas tenham surgido. Conclusão: o estudo concluiu que a tendência da Suprema Corte permanece favorável ao reconhecimento de direitos sanitários, tendo, para tal, argumentos como a não ofensa à separação de poderes e a impossibilidade de arguir a reserva do possível para impedir sua concessão.

Objective: to identify whether the pandemic situation interfered with the extent and way in which issues relating to the right to health were assessed by the Federal Supreme Court. Methodology: documentary research was carried out, which, after consulting the Federal Supreme Court database, with the filter using the term "health", returned a total of 1,178 rulings, 447 from the pre-pandemic period and 731 from the pandemic period, which were analyzed and classified according to thematic relevance. After the classification stage discards, 70 rulings were identified in the pre-pandemic period and 167 rulings in the pandemic that effectively deal with the right to health. Results: the pandemic imposed numerous challenges on the health system, so that the Judiciary was urged to speak out in the face of the now established controversies. In these manifestations, it was identified that there was an increase in demands for concentrated control and in the absolute quantity of decisions involving the right to health, as well as that qualitatively, in general, the previous decision-making pattern was maintained, although new themes have emerged. Conclusion: the study concluded that the Supreme Court's tendency remains in favor of the recognition of health rights, using arguments such as the non-offense of the separation of powers and the impossibility of arguing on the possible reservation to prevent their granting.

Objetivo: identificar si la situación de pandemia interfirió en el alcance y la forma en que las cuestiones relativas al derecho a la salud fueron evaluadas por el Supremo Tribunal Federal. Metodología: se realizó una investigación documental que, consultada la base de datos del Supremo Tribunal Federal, con el filtro del término "salud", arrojó un total de 1.178 sentencias, 447 del período prepandemia y 731 del período pandémico, que fueron analizados y clasificados según relevancia temática. Descartada la etapa de clasificación, se identificaron 70 sentencias en el período prepandemia y 167 sentencias en la pandemia que abordan efectivamente el derecho a la salud. Resultados: la pandemia impuso numerosos desafíos al sistema de salud, por lo que se instó al Poder Judicial a pronunciarse ante las controversias ahora establecidas. En estas manifestaciones se identificó que hubo un aumento en las demandas de control concentrado y en la cantidad absoluta de decisiones que abordan el derecho a la salud, así como que cualitativamente, en general, se mantuvo el patrón de toma de decisiones anterior, aunque han surgido nuevos temas. Conclusión: el estudio concluyó que se mantiene la tendencia de la Corte Suprema a favor del reconocimiento de los derechos a la salud, utilizando argumentos como la no infracción de la separación de poderes y la imposibilidad de argumentar la reserva de lo posible para impedir su otorgamiento.

La cosmovisión indígena en políticas públicas medioambientales para reducir la contaminación durante la pandemia del coronavirus / coronavirusIndigenous Worldview in Environmental Public Policies to Reduce Pollution during the Coronavirus Pandemic / A cosmovisão indígena nas políticas públicas ambientais de redução da poluição durante a pandemia do coronavírus

Introducción: consecuencia de la pandemia a causa del coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), desde el 2020 ha aumen-tado la generación de los residuos con riesgo biológico o infeccioso, usados en los protocolos de biosegu-ridad por parte de la ciudadanía en general y el talento humano en salud. Ello generó un alto riesgo para salud y un aumento en el índice de contaminación ambiental y degradación de los recursos naturales, que hasta el momento ha superado las expectativas para su mitigación. Desarrollo: para contrarrestar el impacto del aumento en el índice de contaminación ambiental, se reflexiona sobre la necesidad de buscar acciones medioambientales para mitigar el daño y ampliar el concepto sobre el medio ambiente y la importancia de la interacción y codependencia del ser humano con la naturaleza. Se plantea la idea de retomar elementos conceptuales del conocimiento de las culturas indígenas sobre la visión holística del ambiente, partiendo de una cosmovisión indígena del buen vivir, donde el ambiente y el ser humano se encuentran en constante equilibrio y armonía. Conclusión: se pretende encontrar, desde la cosmovisión indígena, posibles abordajes conceptuales que mitiguen el impacto de la contaminación ambiental a causa del coronavirus, así como la formulación de acciones estratégicas para la adecuada gestión de estos residuos

Introduction: Since 2020, due to the the Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, there has been an increase in generation of waste with biological or infectious risk used in biosafety protocols by the community and human resources in health, which, in turn, generates a high rate of pollution and environmental degradation of natural resources that has so far exceeded expectations for mitigation.Development: To reduce the impact of this problematic situation, a reflection was made to strengthen the current public policies and implement environmental actions that seek to mitigate the damage, but, above all, to change the concept of the environment and increase awareness about the importance of interac-tion and codependency of human beings with nature. The idea of retaking conceptual elements of the knowledge of indigenous cultures regarding the holistic vision of the environment is proposed, starting from a Quechua worldview of good living, where the environment and the human being are in constant balance and harmony. Conclusions:This study is intended to determine, from the indigenous worldview, the possible conceptual approaches that mitigate the environmental impact, as well as to formulate strategic actions for the adequate management of the resultant waste.

Introdução: como consequência da pandemia causada pelo Coronavírus (SARS-CoV-2), desde 2020 houve um aumento na geração de resíduos com risco biológico ou infeccioso utilizados em protocolos de bios-segurança pelo público em geral e talentos humanos em saúde; o que gerou um alto risco à saúde e um aumento no índice de contaminação ambiental e degradação dos recursos naturais que até agora tem superado as expectativas para sua mitigação. Desenvolvimento: para neutralizar o impacto do aumento do índice de contaminação ambiental, é feita uma reflexão sobre a necessidade de buscar ações ambien-tais para mitigar os danos, e ampliar o conceito de meio ambiente e a importância da interação e code-pendência do ser humano com a natureza. Propõe-se a ideia de retomar elementos conceituais do conhe-cimento das culturas indígenas sobre a visão holística do meio ambiente, partindo de uma cosmovisão indígena do bem viver, onde o meio ambiente e o ser humano estão em constante equilíbrio e harmonia. Conclusão: pretende-se encontrar a partir da visão de mundo indígena, possíveis abordagens conceituais que mitiguem o impacto da contaminação ambiental devido ao coronavírus, bem como a formulação de ações estratégicas para o gerenciamento adequado desses resíduos

Características clínicas e epidemiológicas das internações pediátricas por COVID-19 na Amazônia brasileira: um estudo observacional / Clinical and epidemiological characteristics of pediatric hospitalizations due to COVID-19 in the Brazilian Amazon: an observational study

OBJETIVO: Apontar os aspectos clínicos e epidemiológicos de crianças internadas por COVID-19 em um hospital público situado em um estado da Amazônia Brasileira. MÉTODO: Estudo observacional, descritivo, retrospectivo e documental com uma abordagem quantitativa dos casos de internação pediátrica por COVID-19. RESULTADOS: No Hospital da Criança e Adolescente, foram registrados um total de 5016 casos suspeitos de COVID-19 em crianças. Destes, 666 foram confirmados com a doença e resultaram em 140 internações. Analisamos 136 notificações de crianças internadas por COVID-19. A maioria dos pacientes era lactente (39%) e pré-escolar (36%), com prevalência do sexo masculino (67,6%) e raça/cor preta/parda (86%). Além disso, 83,1% delas residem em área urbana. Quanto ao desfecho, 96,67% evoluíram para a cura e 3,33% resultaram em óbito. CONCLUSÃO: No contexto amazônico, a análise das características clínicas e epidemiológicas deste grupo etário é essencial para orientar os cuidados clínicos, prever a gravidade da doença e determinar o prognóstico.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the clinical and epidemiologic aspects of children hospitalized for COVID-19 in a public hospital located in a state in the Brazilian Amazon. METHODS: Observational, descriptive, retrospective, and documentary study with a quantitative approach to pediatric hospitalization cases due to COVID-19. RESULTS: In the Hospital for Children and Adolescents, a total of 5016 suspected cases of COVID-19 in children were recorded. Of these, 666 were confirmed with the disease, resulting in 140 hospitalizations. We analyzed 136 reports of children hospitalized for COVID-19. Most patients were infants (39%) and preschool children (36%), with a prevalence of males (67.6%) and black/brown race/color (86%). In addition, 83.1% live in urban areas. Regarding the outcome, 96.67% were cured, and 3.33% resulted in death. CONCLUSION: In the Amazonian context, the analysis of this age group's clinical and epidemiologic characteristics is essential to guide clinical care, predict the severity of the disease, and determine the prognosis.

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children in the context of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic / 中国当代儿科杂志

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a complex syndrome characterized by multi-organ involvement that has emerged in the context of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) outbreak. The clinical presentation of MIS-C is similar to Kawasaki disease but predominantly presents with fever and gastrointestinal symptoms, and severe cases can involve toxic shock and cardiac dysfunction. Epidemiological findings indicate that the majority of MIS-C patients test positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. The pathogenesis and pathophysiology of MIS-C remain unclear, though immune dysregulation following SARS-CoV-2 infection is considered a major contributing factor. Current treatment approaches for MIS-C primarily involve intravenous immunoglobulin therapy and symptomatic supportive care. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the definition, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of MIS-C.

Compatibility Theory of Yiqi Zengmian Prescription as Vaccine Adjuvant / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveThis study explored the application of Yiqi Zengmian prescription as a vaccine adjuvant， aiming to provide a new scheme for the prevention and control of corona virus disease 2019（COVID-19） with traditional Chinese medicine （TCM）. By analyzing the compatibility and efficacy， this paper examines the compatibility effect of Yiqi Zengmian prescription， which is modified from the classic tonifying agent Si Junzitang， as a vaccine adjuvant. MethodUsing the Database of Ancient Classical Prescriptions， this paper analyzed the composition of Yiqi Zengmian prescription and probed into the theoretical basis for the compatibility of this prescription from the properties， medicine combination， and efficacy. Furthermore， the compatibility effect of this prescription with vaccines was analyzed. ResultAs a TCM prescription， Yiqi Zengmian prescription focuses on the lung and spleen and enhances the Qi in the two organs. The lung governs Qi movement. The body breathes fresh air through the lungs and exchanges the turbid gas in the lungs， and the gas circulates alternately in the lungs to ensure the normal breathing of the human body. The spleen governing transportation and transformation is the hub for Qi movement， and Qi is the embodiment of metabolic function. By regulating qi movement and enhancing the functions of Qi and blood， Yiqi Zengmian prescription can enhance the immunogenicity of the vaccine， which provides a theoretical basis for enhancing the immune effects of vaccines. ConclusionYiqi Zengmian prescription has the effects of replenishing Qi and invigorating spleen， regulating Qi and drying dampness， and enhancing immunity. The in-depth analysis of the TCM theory of Yiqi Zengmian prescription as a vaccine adjuvant and the results of clinical and laboratory studies suggest that Yiqi Zengmian prescription may enhance the induction of immune response after vaccination and maintain the immune memory. However， the mechanism of Yiqi Zengmian prescription in regulating the complex immune network remains to be elucidated.

Recent advances in drug screening methods of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein / 药学学报

The pandemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused a serious impact on global public health and the economy. SARS-CoV-2 infiltrates host cells via its surface spike protein, which binds to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 on the host cell membrane. As a result, small molecules targeting spike protein have emerged as a hotspot in anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug research. Activity screening is an important step in seeking small molecule drugs. Therefore, this article aims to review the biological activity evaluation methods of small molecule inhibitors targeting SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, with the goal of laying the foundation for the discovery of new anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs.

Progress in the epidemiology of COVID-19 infections in children and adolescents / 中国学校卫生

Abstract@#The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a series of complex challenges. COVID-19 in children and adolescents is generally less severe than in adults and the elderly; however, some children and adolescents may experience severe complications and adverse health effects even after mild or asymptomatic COVID-19 infections. The article focuses on gathering the epidemic characteristics, health impact, risk factors, prevention and control measures, and vaccination status of children and adolescents with COVID-19 infection to provide recommendations for protecting children and adolescents in the post COVID-19 era.

Effects of traditional Chinese medicine on treatment outcomes in severe COVID-19 patients: a single-centre study / 中国天然药物

As the search for effective treatments for COVID-19 continues, the high mortality rate among critically ill patients in Intensive Care Units (ICU) presents a profound challenge. This study explores the potential benefits of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a supplementary treatment for severe COVID-19. A total of 110 critically ill COVID-19 patients at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Vulcan Hill Hospital between Feb., 2020, and April, 2020 (Wuhan, China) participated in this observational study. All patients received standard supportive care protocols, with a subset of 81 also receiving TCM as an adjunct treatment. Clinical characteristics during the treatment period and the clinical outcome of each patient were closely monitored and analysed. Our findings indicated that the TCM group exhibited a significantly lower mortality rate compared with the non-TCM group (16 of 81 vs 24 of 29; 0.3 vs 2.3 person/month). In the adjusted Cox proportional hazards models, TCM treatment was associated with improved survival odds (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the analysis also revealed that TCM treatment could partially mitigate inflammatory responses, as evidenced by the reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines, and contribute to the recovery of multiple organic functions, thereby potentially increasing the survival rate of critically ill COVID-19 patients.

Hospitalização de idosos por COVID-19 no Paraná: uma análise de fatores associados / Hospitalización de personas mayores por COVID-19 en Paraná: un análisis de factores asociados / Hospitalization of elderly people due to COVID-19 in the State of Paraná, Brazil: analysis of associated factors

Resumo Objetivo Analisar a prevalência e os fatores associados à hospitalização de idosos com COVID-19 no estado do Paraná, PR, Brasil. Métodos Estudo transversal vinculado à coorte "Acompanhamento Longitudinal de adultos e idosos que receberam alta da internação hospitalar por COVID-19", realizado por meio de informações contidas nas fichas de notificação compulsória do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação. As análises foram realizadas através de frequências relativas e absolutas, com aplicação do teste de qui-quadrado adotado no modelo de regressão logística. A população do estudo englobou pessoas residentes no Estado do Paraná com idade de 60 anos ou mais, hospitalizadas por COVID-19 no período de março de 2020 a setembro de 2021. Resultados Foi identificada maior prevalência de hospitalização entre idosos com escolaridade igual ou maior a oito anos. Indivíduos não vacinados contra COVID-19 apresentaram maior chance de internação. O sexo masculino apresentou mais chance de admissão em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva em comparação com o sexo feminino. Doenças cardiovasculares, pneumopatia e obesidade aumentaram a prevalência da forma grave da doença. Conclusão Fatores tais como escolaridade e não adesão à vacinação contra COVID-19 podem aumentar o risco de hospitalização pela doença. Pessoas idosas do sexo masculino apresentam maior chance de hospitalização na UTI se comparadas às do sexo feminino; além disso, a não utilização de antivirais pode contribuir para o agravamento do estado de saúde.

Resumen Objetivo Analizar la prevalencia y los factores asociados a la hospitalización de personas mayores por COVID-19 en el estado de Paraná. Métodos Estudio transversal vinculado a la cohorte "Seguimiento longitudinal de adultos y personas mayores que recibieron alta de internación hospitalaria por COVID-19", realizado mediante información contenida en las fichas de notificación obligatoria del Sistema de Información de Agravios de Notificación. Los análisis fueron realizados a través de frecuencias relativas y absolutas, con aplicación de la prueba ji cuadrado adoptada en el modelo de regresión logística. La población del estudio incluyó personas residentes del estado de Paraná, de 60 años o más, hospitalizadas por COVID-19 en el período de marzo de 2020 a septiembre de 2021. Resultados Se identificó mayor prevalencia de hospitalización en personas mayores con escolaridad igual o mayor a ocho años. Individuos no vacunados contra COVID-19 presentaron mayor probabilidad de internación. El sexo masculino presentó más probabilidad de admisión en Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos en comparación con el sexo femenino. Enfermedades cardiovasculares, neumopatía y obesidad aumentaron la prevalencia de la forma grave de la enfermedad. Conclusión Factores tales como escolaridad y no adhesión a la vacunación contra COVID-19 pueden aumentar el riesgo de hospitalización por la enfermedad. Personas mayores de sexo masculino presentaron mayor probabilidad de hospitalización en la UCI al compararlas con las de sexo femenino. Además, la no utilización de antivirales puede contribuir al agravamiento del estado de salud.

Abstract Objective To analyze the prevalence and factors associated with hospitalization of elderly people with COVID-19 in the State of Paraná, PR, Brazil. Methods A cross-sectional study linked to the cohort "Longitudinal Monitoring of adults and elderly people who were discharged from hospital admission due to COVID-19", was carried out using information contained in the compulsory notification forms of the Notifiable Diseases Information System. Analyzes were carried out using relative and absolute frequencies, applying the chi-square test adopted in the logistic regression model. The study population included people aged 60 years or over and residing in the State of Paraná, who were hospitalized for COVID-19 from March 2020 to September 2021. Results A higher hospitalization prevalence was identified among elderly people with eight years of education or more. Individuals not vaccinated against COVID-19 had a greater chance of hospitalization. Males had a greater chance of admission to the Intensive Care Unit compared to females. Cardiovascular diseases, lung disease, and obesity have increased the prevalence of the severe form of the disease. Conclusion Factors such as education and non-adherence to vaccination against COVID-19 can increase the risk of hospitalization due to the disease. Elderly people of the male sex have a greater chance of hospitalization in the ICU compared to the female sex. Furthermore, not using antivirals can contribute to worsening health status.

Macular perfusion changes in people administered two types of COVID-19 vaccines: optical coherence tomography angiography study

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate macular chorioretinal flow changes on optical coherence tomography angiography, in participants who received inactivated and messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Methods: In this prospective cohort study, healthy participants who received two doses of an inactivated COVID-19 vaccine (CoronaVac) and then one dose of an mRNA vaccine (BNT162b2) were examined before and after each vaccination. Ophthalmologic examination and imaging with optical coherence tomography angiography were performed during each visit. We evaluated vascular densities in the superficial and deep capillary plexuses in foveal, parafoveal, and perifoveal areas; the foveal avascular zone; and choriocapillaris flows (in 1- and 6-mm-diameter areas). Results: One eye in each of the 24 participants was assessed. Superficial capillary plexus vascular densities in the parafoveal area were significantly lower after the second dose of the CoronaVac vaccine than after the first dose. In the deep capillary plexus, vascular attenuation was observed only in the parafoveal region after the first CoronaVac dose. However, in all regions, the deep capillary plexus vascular densities and subfoveal choriocapillaris flow were significantly decreased after the second CoronaVac dose. After the BNT162b2 dose, the superficial capillary plexus vascular densities, the deep capillary plexus vascular densities, and subfoveal choriocapillaris flow of most regions were significantly lower than those before vaccinations. Conclusion: Vascular attenuation, observed particularly after the second dose of the CoronaVac vaccine, may explain the pathogenesis of postvaccine ocular ischemic disorders reported in the literature. However, these disorders are extremely rare, and the incidence of thrombotic events caused by COVID-19 itself is higher.

Is it possible to estimate the number of patients with COVID-19 admitted to intensive care units and general wards using clinical and telemedicine data?

ABSTRACT Objective: To develop and validate predictive models to estimate the number of COVID-19 patients hospitalized in the intensive care units and general wards of a private not-for-profit hospital in São Paulo, Brazil. Methods: Two main models were developed. The first model calculated hospital occupation as the difference between predicted COVID-19 patient admissions, transfers between departments, and discharges, estimating admissions based on their weekly moving averages, segmented by general wards and intensive care units. Patient discharge predictions were based on a length of stay predictive model, assessing the clinical characteristics of patients hospitalized with COVID-19, including age group and usage of mechanical ventilation devices. The second model estimated hospital occupation based on the correlation with the number of telemedicine visits by patients diagnosed with COVID-19, utilizing correlational analysis to define the lag that maximized the correlation between the studied series. Both models were monitored for 365 days, from May 20th, 2021, to May 20th, 2022. Results: The first model predicted the number of hospitalized patients by department within an interval of up to 14 days. The second model estimated the total number of hospitalized patients for the following 8 days, considering calls attended by Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein's telemedicine department. Considering the average daily predicted values for the intensive care unit and general ward across a forecast horizon of 8 days, as limited by the second model, the first and second models obtained R² values of 0.900 and 0.996, respectively and mean absolute errors of 8.885 and 2.524 beds, respectively. The performances of both models were monitored using the mean error, mean absolute error, and root mean squared error as a function of the forecast horizon in days. Conclusion: The model based on telemedicine use was the most accurate in the current analysis and was used to estimate COVID-19 hospital occupancy 8 days in advance, validating predictions of this nature in similar clinical contexts. The results encourage the expansion of this method to other pathologies, aiming to guarantee the standards of hospital care and conscious consumption of resources.

Health and lifestyle parameters in peripheral artery disease at two periods of the COVID-19 pandemic: comparison between men and women

ABSTRACT Objective: This study analyzed the impact of sex on self-reported health and lifestyle parameters in peripheral artery disease patients at two periods of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: In this longitudinal study, 99 patients with peripheral artery disease (53 men and 46 women) were evaluated during two periods of the COVID-19 pandemic ( i.e ., at onset: May to August 2020, and on follow-up: May to August 2021). Patients were interviewed via telephone, and information regarding lifestyle and health parameters was obtained. Results: At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, health and habit parameters were similar between women and men, with 63.0% and 45.3% indicating frequent fatigue, 73.9% and 84.9% reporting increased sitting time, and 23.9% and 39.6% practicing physical activity, respectively. At follow-up, difficulties in physical mobility (women: from 26.1% to 73.9%, p<0.001; men: from 39.6% to 71.7%, p=0.001) and the frequency of hospitalization for reasons other than COVID-19 increased similarly in women and men (women: from 4.3% to 21.7%, p=0.013; men: from 9.4% to 24.5%, p=0.038). The other parameters were similar between the periods. Conclusion: Self-reported physical mobility difficulties and hospitalization frequency increased in women and men with peripheral artery disease.

Long-term outcomes for epidemic viral pneumonia survivors after discharge from the intensive care unit: a systematic review

ABSTRACT Objective To review the long-term outcomes (functional status and psychological sequelae) of survivors of critical illnesses due to epidemic viral pneumonia before the COVID-19 pandemic and to establish a benchmark for comparison of the COVID-19 long-term outcomes. Methods This systematic review of clinical studies reported the long-term outcomes in adults admitted to intensive care units who were diagnosed with viral epidemic pneumonia. An electronic search was performed using databases: MEDLINE®, Web of Science™, LILACS/IBECS, and EMBASE. Additionally, complementary searches were conducted on the reference lists of eligible studies. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The results were grouped into tables and textual descriptions. Results The final analysis included 15 studies from a total of 243 studies. This review included 771 patients with Influenza A, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. It analyzed the quality of life, functionality, lung function, mortality, rate of return to work, rehospitalization, and psychiatric symptoms. The follow-up periods ranged from 1 to 144 months. We found that the quality of life, functional capacity, and pulmonary function were below expected standards. Conclusion This review revealed great heterogeneity between studies attributed to different scales, follow-up time points, and methodologies. However, this systematic review identified negative long-term effects on patient outcomes. Given the possibility of future pandemics, it is essential to identify the long-term effects of viral pneumonia outbreaks. This review was not funded. Prospero database registration: (www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero) under registration ID CRD42021190296.

Alternative therapies for viral infections caused by SARS-Cov-2 / Terapias alternativas para infecções virais causadas pelo SARS-Cov-2

Abstract Introduction The relevance of the studied topic lies in the complexity of the treatment of infection caused by SARS-CoV-2. Objective To discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of alternative treatments compared to conventional medical approaches, and to highlight the importance of collaborative communication between patients and healthcare providers in making informed decisions about alternative treatments of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Methods The research methodology employed literature analysis methods, including bibliographic and bibliosemantic approaches. The study used theoretical, systematic, and statistical methods, including analysis, synthesis, generalization, interpretation, classification, and meta-analysis to explore alternative treatments for SARS-CoV-2 infections, their interrelationships, and statistical trends in incidence. Results The study identifies diverse alternative therapies for treating SARS-CoV-2 infections, highlighting herbal medicine, acupuncture, reflexology, biohacking, homoeopathy, and magnetotherapy. It underscores the potential benefits of herbal remedies like garlic, ginger, chamomile, and honeysuckle, as well as vitamins (C, D, B12) and minerals (zinc, selenium) in managing COVID-19 symptoms. Conclusion While of-fering holistic benefits, these therapies warrant cautious consideration due to limited scientific backing and potential interactions. Cultural understanding, patient-provider dialogue, and informed choices are key in harnessing the potential of alternative medicine along-side conventional approaches for managing COVID-19 challenges.

Resumo Introdução A relevância do tema estudado reside na comple-xidade do tratamento da infeção causada pelo SARS-CoV-2. Objetivo Discutir as potenciais vantagens e desvantagens dos tratamentos alternativos em comparação com as abordagens médicas convencionais e realçar a importância da comunicação colaborativa entre os doentes e os prestadores de cuidados de saúde na tomada de decisões informadas sobre os tratamentos alternativos do vírus SARS-CoV-2. Métodos A metodologia de investigação utilizou métodos de análise da literatura, incluindo abordagens bibliográficas e bibliosemânticas. O estudo utilizou métodos teóricos, sistemáticos e estatísticos, incluindo análise, síntese, generalização, interpretação, classificação e meta-aná-lise para explorar tratamentos alternativos para as infecções por SARS-CoV-2, suas inter-relações e tendências estatísticas da incidência. Resultados O estudo identifica diversas terapias alternativas para o tratamento das infecções por SARS-CoV-2, destacando a fitoterapia, a acupunctura, a reflexologia, o biohacking, a homeopatia e a magnetoterapia. Sublinha os potenciais benefícios dos remédios à base de plantas como o alho, o gengibre, a camomila e a madressilva, bem como das vitaminas (C, D, B12) e dos minerais (zinco, selénio) na gestão dos sintomas da COVID-19. Conclusão Embora ofereçam benefícios holísticos, estas terapias devem ser consideradas com cautela devido ao apoio científico limitado e às potenciais interações. A compreensão cultural, o diálogo paciente-prove-dor e as escolhas informadas são fundamentais para aproveitar o potencial da medicina alternativa juntamente às abordagens convencionais para gerir os desafios da COVID-19.