Post-parotidectomy facial nerve function: comparison between original and modified Sunnybrook Facial Grading Systems / Função do nervo facial pós-parotidectomia: comparação entre os Sistemas Sunnybrook de Graduação Facial original e modificado

Abstract Background: Facial nerve dysfunction is the principal postoperative complication related to parotidectomy. Objective: To test the hypothesis that the modified Sunnybrook Facial Grading System (mS-FGS) is superior to the original S-FGS in the assessment of facial nerve function following parotidectomy. Methods: Prospective, longitudinal study evaluating patients with primary or metastatic parotid neoplasms undergoing parotidectomy with facial nerve-sparing between 2016 and 2020. The subjects were assessed twice, on the first postoperative day and at the first outpatient evaluation, 20-30 days post-surgery. Facial assessments were performed using the original and modified (plus showing the lower teeth) versions of the Sunnybrook System and documented by pictures and video recordings. Intra- and inter-rater agreements regarding the assessment of the new expression were analyzed. Results: 101 patients were enrolled. In both steps, the results from the mS-FGS were significantly lower (p < 0.001). Subjects with a history of previous parotidectomy and those who underwent neck dissection had more severe facial nerve impairment. The mandibular marginal branch was the most frequently injured, affecting 68.3% of the patients on the first postoperative day and 52.5% on the first outpatient evaluation. Twenty patients (19.8%) presented an exclusive marginal mandibular branch lesion. The inter-rater agreement of the new expression assessment ranged from substantial to almost perfect. The intra-rater agreement was almost perfect (wk = 0.951). Conclusion: The adoption of the Modified Sunnybrook System, which includes evaluation of the mandibular marginal branch, increases the accuracy of post-parotidectomy facial nerve dysfunction appraisal.

Resumo Antecedentes: A disfunção do nervo facial é a principal complicação pós-operatória relacionada à parotidectomia. Objetivo: Testar a hipótese de que o sistema Sunnybrook de graduação facial modificado (mS-FGS) é superior ao S-FGS original na avaliação da função do nervo facial após parotidectomia. Métodos: Estudo longitudinal prospectivo avaliando o pós-operatório de pacientes com neoplasias parotídeas primárias ou metastáticas, submetidos à parotidectomia com preservação do nervo facial, entre 2016 e 2020. Os indivíduos foram avaliados duas vezes, no primeiro dia de pós-operatório e na primeira avaliação ambulatorial, 20-30 dias após a cirurgia. As avaliações faciais foram realizadas usando as versões original e modificada (que incluem mostrar os dentes inferiores) do sistema Sunnybrook e documentadas por fotos e vídeos. Foram adicionalmente analisadas as concordâncias intra e interexaminadoras da avaliação da nova expressão. Resultados: Cento e um pacientes foram incluídos. Em ambas as etapas, os resultados do mS-FGS foram significativamente menores (p < 0,001). Indivíduos com história de parotidectomia prévia e aqueles submetidos ao esvaziamento cervical apresentaram comprometimento mais grave do nervo facial. O ramo marginal mandibular foi o mais afetado, acometendo 68,3% dos pacientes no primeiro dia de pós-operatório e 52,5% na primeira avaliação ambulatorial. Vinte pacientes (19,8%) apresentaram lesão exclusiva do ramo marginal mandibular. A concordância interexaminadores da avaliação da nova expressão variou de substancial a quase perfeita. A concordância intraexaminador foi quase perfeita (wk = 0,951). Conclusão: A adoção do sistema Sunnybrook modificado, que inclui a análise do ramo marginal mandibular, aumenta a precisão da avaliação da disfunção do nervo facial pós-parotidectomia.

Association of Dietary Inflammatory Potential in Metabolically Healthy and Metabolically Unhealthy Obese Individuals

Abstract Introduction: Currently, two types of phenotypes have been recognized in individuals who are obese. Among the factors related to lifestyle, diet has a relevant influence, although there is no consensus regarding the role of diet in metabolic phenotypes; furthermore, diet is a strong moderator of chronic systemic inflammation. Objective: Investigate dietary inflammatory potential between metabolic phenotypes and to compare the differences between anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory diets in individuals with the same phenotype. Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study that utilized the database of 533 individuals divided into 4 groups, according to metabolic phenotype and dietary inflammatory characteristic. Sociodemographic, clinical, anthropometric and biochemical characteristics were evaluated and the inflammatory index of the diet was calculated. Results: The mean Dietary Inflammatory index (DII) of the total sample was 0.974±1.02, with a maximum of 4.34 and a minimum of −1.74. In the metabolically unhealthy groups, we found a statistical difference in relation to systolic blood pressure when comparing the anti-inflammatory [median 120 (110.0-130.0)] and pro-inflammatory diets [median 130 (120.0-140.0); p = 0.022], and mean isoprostane concentrations were lower in the metabolically healthy group with anti-inflammatory diet. In regression analysis, the only variable that demonstrated a higher risk of alterations in all groups when compared to the metabolically healthy and anti-inflammatory group were isoprostane concentrations. Conclusion: We are able to conclude that an anti-inflammatory diet is associated with lower oxidative stress in metabolically healthy obese, and a pro-inflammatory diet is associated with higher systolic blood pressure values.

Acoustic Measurements of Speech and Voice in Men with Angle Class II, Division 1, Malocclusion

Abstract Introduction The acoustic analysis of speech (measurements of the fundamental frequency and formant frequencies) of different vowels produced by speakers with the Angle class II, division 1, malocclusion can provide information about the relationship between articulatory and phonatory mechanisms in this type of maxillomandibular disproportion. Objectives To investigate acoustic measurements related to the fundamental frequency (F0) and formant frequencies (F1 and F2) of the oral vowels of Brazilian Portuguese (BP) produced by male speakers with Angle class II, division 1, malocclusion (study group) and compare with men with Angle class I malocclusion (control group). Methods In total, 60 men (20 with class II, 40 with class I) aged between 18 and 40 years were included in the study. Measurements of F0, F1 and F2 of the seven oral vowels of BP were estimated from the audio samples containing repetitions of carrier sentences. The statistical analysis was performed using the Student t-test and the effect size was calculated. Results Significant differences (p-values) were detected for F0 values in five vowels ([e], [i], [o], [o] and [u]), and for F1 in vowels [a] and [ɔ], with high levels for class II, division 1. Conclusion Statistical differences were found in the F0 measurements with higher values in five of the seven vowels analysed in subjects with Angle class II, division 1. The formant frequencies showed differences only in F1 in two vowels with higher values in the study group. The data suggest that data on voice and speech production must be included in the protocol's assessment of patients with malocclusion.

Hospital mortality from covid-19 in children and adolescents in Brazil in 2020-2021 / Mortalidade hospitalar por covid-19 em crianças e adolescentes no Brasil em 2020-2021

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To describe cases, deaths, and hospital mortality from covid-19 in children and adolescents in Brazil, according to age group, during the evolving phases of the pandemic in 2020 and 2021. METHODS Census of patients aged up to 19 committed with severe acute respiratory syndrome, due to covid-19 or unspecified, notified to the Brazilian Influenza Epidemiological Surveillance Information System, from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2021. The two years were divided into six phases, covering the spread of the disease—first, second and third wave—as well as the impact of vaccination. The pediatric population was categorized into infants, preschoolers, schoolchildren, and adolescents. Hospital mortality was assessed by pandemic phase and age group. RESULTS A total of 144,041 patients were recorded in the two years, 18.2% of whom had confirmed cases of covid-19. Children under 5 years old (infants and preschoolers) accounted for 62.8% of those hospitalized. A total of 4,471 patients died, representing about 6.1 deaths per day. Infants were the ones who most progressed to the intensive care unit (24.7%) and had the highest gross number of deaths (n = 2,012), but mortality was higher among adolescents (5.7%), reaching 9.8% in phase 1. The first peak of deaths occurred in phase 1 (May/2020), and two other peaks occurred in phase 4 (March/2021 and May/2021). There was an increase in cases and deaths for younger ages since phase 4. Hospital mortality in the pediatric population was higher in phases 1, 4, and 6, following the phenomena of dissemination/interiorization of the virus in the country, beginning of the second wave and beginning of the third wave, respectively. CONCLUSION The absolute number of cases of covid-19 in children and adolescents is significant. Although complete vaccination in descending order of age provided a natural deviation in age range, there was a greater gap between the curve of new hospitalized cases and the curve of deaths, indicating the positive impact of immunization.

RESUMO OBJETIVO Descrever casos, óbitos e mortalidade hospitalar por covid-19 em crianças e adolescentes no Brasil, conforme faixa etária, durante as fases de evolução da pandemia em 2020 e 2021. MÉTODOS Censo de pacientes de até 19 anos internados com síndrome respiratória aguda grave, por covid-19 ou não especificada, notificados ao Sistema de Informação de Vigilância Epidemiológica da Gripe do Brasil, entre 1 de janeiro de 2020 e 31 de dezembro de 2021. Os dois anos foram divididos em seis fases, abrangendo a disseminação da doença − primeira, segunda e terceira onda −, bem como o impacto da vacinação. A população pediátrica foi categorizada em lactentes, pré-escolares, escolares e adolescentes. A mortalidade hospitalar foi avaliada por fase da pandemia e faixa etária. RESULTADOS Foram contabilizados 144.041 pacientes nos dois anos, sendo 18,2% casos de covid-19 confirmados. Menores de 5 anos (lactentes e pré-escolares) corresponderam a 62,8% dos hospitalizados. Evoluíram a óbito 4.471, representando cerca 6,1 óbitos por dia. Os lactentes foram os que mais evoluíram para unidade de terapia intensiva (24,7%) e apresentaram o maior número bruto de óbito (n = 2.012), porém a mortalidade foi maior entre os adolescentes (5,7%), chegando a 9,8% na fase 1. O primeiro pico de óbitos ocorreu na fase 1 (maio/2020), e outros dois picos ocorreram na fase 4 (março/2021 e maio/2021). Verificou-se avanço de casos e óbitos para as idades inferiores desde a fase 4. A mortalidade hospitalar na população pediátrica foi maior nas fases 1, 4 e 6, acompanhando os fenômenos de disseminação/interiorização do vírus no país, início da segunda onda e início da terceira onda, respectivamente. CONCLUSÃO O número absoluto de casos de covid-19 em crianças e adolescentes é expressivo. Embora a vacinação completa em ordem decrescente de idade tenha proporcionado um desvio natural de faixa etária, ocorreu um distanciamento maior entre a curva de novos casos hospitalizados e a curva de óbitos, indicando o impacto positivo da imunização.

Caregivers' Sense of Coherence and Untreated Dental Caries in Children and Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Objective: To associate caregivers' sense of coherence (SOC) and untreated caries with oral health status in children covered by a dental public health system. Material and Methods: A convenience sample of caregivers/children in Angra dos Reis, Brazil, was surveyed. Caregivers' SOC was evaluated using the 13-question version questionnaire. For both caregivers/children, sociodemographic information was acquired and caries experience was evaluated by DMFT/dmft and PUFA/pufa index. Statistical associations between children's untreated carious teeth and interest variables from the caregivers were evaluated by binary logistic regression assessed by generalized linear modeling. Results: A total of 233 pairs of caregivers-children were included. Children's untreated permanent and primary carious teeth represented 34.8% and 62.2% of the caries experience, respectively and at least one PUFA/pufa scored tooth was detected in 22.7% of them. Caregivers' DMFT was 13.5±7.0, while 33.6% scored on PUFA. A total of 62.1% of them presented untreated carious lesions. Results from the univariate model, correlating children's untreated caries and caregivers' attributes showed a statistical significance for SOC values (p<0.015), untreated decayed teeth (p<0.035), self-perception of oral health (p<0.022) and oral impact on daily performance (p<0.010). The multivariate logistic first model kept the statistical significance only for the caregiver's untreated decayed teeth. Conclusion: Caregivers' SOC and untreated carious teeth could be used as indicators of dental treatment needs in their offspring.

A 14-Year Follow-Up Study of Sequelae in Primary Teeth and Permanent Successors After Dental Trauma

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the presence of sequelae in primary teeth and their permanent successors, as well as associations between TDI and the presence of sequelae in both teeth. Material and Methods: In this 14-year retrospective study, 2.290 records were reviewed, 192 patients who suffered dental trauma in primary teeth were followed until the eruption of successor teeth were included. Descriptive, chi-square, and regression logistic with generalized estimating equations tests were performed (p<0.05). Results: 362 primary and successor teeth were followed. Sequelae were present in 71.8% of primary teeth and 25.7% of their successors. Teeth with complicated fracture (100%), extrusion (100%) and avulsion (100%) resulted in the largest amounts of sequelae in primary teeth and intrusion (61%) on their successors. Age was associated with sequelae in permanent teeth (p<0.01). Extrusion (OR 10.06; CI 2.12-47.63) and intrusion (OR 7.51; CI 2.73-20.70) had a higher risk to cause sequelae in primary and permanent teeth, respectively. Conclusion: The type of injury involved influenced the sequelae in traumatized teeth and their successors, and the age of the child influenced the presence of sequelae in permanent teeth.

Food Consumption and Health Outcomes in Women During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has changed food consumption. Objective Evaluate the association between metabolic phenotypes, changes in food consumption during the pandemic, and health outcomes in obese women. Methods Cross-sectional observational study including 491 women without previous diagnosis of chronic diseases, evaluated according to metabolic phenotype. During the pandemic, a subsample was re-evaluated by online questionnaires via Google Forms. Analyzed anthropometric, biochemical, and dietary data as well as health outcomes (coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia or death). Information on mortality was collected from the Internal Affairs Office of the State of Rio de Janeiro and the Health Department of the State of Rio de Janeiro. Statistical analysis was performed using the statistical program SPSS 21, with Mann-Whitney test, Pearson's chi-squared, Spearman correlation, and binary logistic regression, at a significance level of 5%. Results The anthropometric, glucose, and lipid profiles showed significant differences between the metabolically healthy and metabolically unhealthy groups (p = 0.00). Before the pandemic, women in the metabolically unhealthy group had higher dietary intakes of lipids (p = 0.01), saturated fat (p = 0.01) and sodium (p = 0.04), during the pandemic, they consumed more energy (p = 0.04), lipids (p = 0.02), saturated fat (p = 0.02), proteins (p = 0.03) and sodium from ultra-processed foods (p = 0.03). Consequently, health outcomes were more prevalent in the metabolically unhealthy group (p = 0.00). Conclusion Observed that metabolically healthy women had qualitatively better food intake and fewer health outcomes throughout the study.

Effect of Hypoenergetic Diet Combined With Pumpkin Seed Flour Consumption on Obese Women

Abstract Background Dietary treatment containing fiber-rich foods may contribute to lowering weight in obese women. Objective To investigate the effect of a hypoenergetic diet combined with pumpkin seed flour (PSF) consumption on diet quality, anthropometric indices, and glucose and lipid metabolism in obese women. Methods We conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 90-day clinical trial with obese women, distributed into the following two groups: hypoenergetic diet + placebo (PG) and hypoenergetic diet + pumpkin seed flour (PSFG). A total of 100 participants were included in the PSFG (n = 47) and PG (n = 53). We evaluated neck circumference (NC); waist to height ratio; conicity index; fat mass (FM); lipid profile; blood concentrations of glucose and insulin; homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR); quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI); and blood pressure at baseline, 30, 60, and 90 days. Dietary analysis was determined by differences between diet quality indices before and after prescribing the experimental diet. Chi-squared, Student's t-tests and analysis for repeated measures were used, and values were considered significant at p < 0.05. Results The dietary pattern improved after 90 days in both groups. The PSFG presented lower NC (p < 0.001), FM (p = 0.010), triglycerides (TG) (p = 0.025), insulin (p = 0.003), and HOMA-IR (p = 0.018). The PG presented a lower diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.004) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) (p = 0.056). Conclusion A hypoenergetic diet combined with PSF consumption contributes to lowering NC, FM, HOMA-IR, TG, and insulin concentrations.

Percepção dos egressos de odontologia em relação à formação profissional com ênfase na educação interprofissional / Perception of dentistry graduates in relation to professional training with emphasis on interprofessional education

Objetivo: conhecer a percepção de egressos de graduação em Odontologia do Rio de Janeiro sobre a qualidade da formação profissional com ênfase na educação interprofissional. Materiais e Métodos: foi aplicado questionário on-line para egressos de três cursos de Odontologia, sendo duas instituições públicas e uma privada, para alunos formados entre 2016.2 e 2019.1. O questionário estruturado utilizado continha 41 perguntas para analisar a qualidade das atividades acadêmicas oferecidas durante a formação desses profissionais. As questões envolveram quatro dimensões: (1) perfil do egresso, (2) orientação do cuidado em saúde, (3) integração ensino-serviço, e (4) abordagem pedagógica. Os resultados apresentados neste artigo envolveram 9 perguntas das quatro dimensões. Resultados: os 121 egressos participantes responderam que a qualidade e oferta das atividades relacionadas à formação do perfil generalista, humanista e capacidade de compreender a realidade social foi muito boa, assim como as atividades de promoção de saúde e o uso de cenários de prática. Já as atividades relacionadas à educação multiprofissional/interprofissional e à vivência no Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) foram consideradas moderadas. Conclusão: os resultados mostram que egressos dos cursos de Odontologia avaliados estão satisfeitos com a qualidade da formação profissional alcançada através das atividades acadêmicas oferecidas por seus cursos. Principalmente àquelas relacionadas à formação do perfil profissional e à promoção de saúde. Entretanto, a percepção dos egressos indica que experiências multiprofissionais/ínterprofissionais e vivência no SUS ainda precisam ser melhoradas, estimulando os alunos a participarem de estágios e projetos de extensão, formando, assim, profissionais capacitados a atuarem no SUS e no contexto social existente.

Objective: to know the perception of graduates in Dentistry in Rio de Janeiro about the quality of professional training with emphasis on interprofessional education. Materials and Methods: application of an on-line questionnaire for graduates of three Dentistry courses, two public institutions and one private, for students graduated between 2016.2 and 2019.1. The questions involved four dimensions: (1) graduate profile, (2) health care orientation, (3) teaching-service integration, and (4) pedagogical approach. The structured questionnaire used contained 41 questions to analyze the quality of the academic activities offered during the training of these professionals. The results presented in this article involved 9 questions from the four dimensions. Results: a total of 121 graduates participated in the survey. Most graduates perceived that the quality and offer of activities related to the formation of a generalist, humanist profile and the ability to understand social reality were 'very good', as well as health promotion activities. Activities related to multiprofessional/interprofessional education and living in the Unified Health System (SUS) were considered 'moderate', and the use of practice scenarios was also considered 'very good'. Conclusion: the results show that graduates of the evaluated Dentistry courses were satisfied with the quality of professional training achieved through the academic activities offered by their courses. Mainly those related to the formation of the professional profile and health promotion. However, multiprofessional/interprofessional experiences and experience in the SUS still need to be improved, encouraging students to participate in internships and extension projects, thus forming professionals capable of working in SUS and in the existing social context.

Exposição ao mercúrio e anemia em crianças e adolescentes de seis comunidades da Amazônia Brasileira / Mercury exposure and anemia in children and adolescents from six riverside communities of Brazilian Amazon

Resumo O mercúrio (Hg) é uma substância tóxica, sendo o consumo de pescados uma das principais fontes de exposição da população. Este artigo visa avaliar a associação entre anemia e exposição ao Hg na população infanto-juvenil de seis comunidades ribeirinhas da Amazônia Brasileira. Realizou-se a análise secundária de dados de estudos seccionais, incluindo 1.318 indivíduos, divididos em dois grupos segundo a influência do garimpo (grupo A sob influência, e grupo B sem influência). Métodos de análise multivariada foram realizados para verificar a associação entre variável de exposição (Hg no cabelo) e anemia, estratificando pelos grupos. Foram observados 348 casos de anemia (27,1%), sendo 206 entre o grupo B e 142 no grupo A. Houve diferença na mediana dos níveis de Hg entre os grupos (A = 12,8µg/g e B = 4,3µg/g, p = 0,01). Foi observada associação entre Hg no cabelo ≥ 6,0µg/g e anemia (OR = 1,38; IC95% = 1,02-1,87), fato que foi magnificado para o grupo A quando realizada estratificação (OR = 2,23; IC95% = 1,28-3,90). O estudo mostrou elevados níveis de Hg, principalmente no grupo A, e que essa substância pode ser um possível fator de risco para anemia. Além disso, as áreas geográficas pareceram modificar esse efeito, apontando para influência de outros fatores, fato que deve ser melhor avaliado.

Abstract Mercury (Hg) is a toxic substance, and fish consumption is one of the main sources of exposure for the population. This article aims to evaluate the association between exposure to Hg and anemia among children and adolescents from six riverside communities in the Brazilian Amazon. Secondary data analysis from cross-sectional studies, including 1,318 individuals, divided into two groups according to gold mining exposure (group A under the influence, and group B without it). Multivariate analysis methods were performed to assess the association between exposure to Hg (hair Hg) and anemia, stratifying by groups. Three hundred and forty-eight anemia cases were observed (27.1%), with 206 from group B and 142 out of group A. There was a difference in the median of Hg levels between groups (A = 12.8µg/g and B = 4.3µg/g, p = 0.01). An association was observed between hair Hg levels ≥ 6.0µg/g and anemia (OR = 1.38; 95%CI = 1.02-1.87), a fact that was magnified for group A, when stratification was performed (OR = 2.23; 95%CI = 1.28-3.90). This study showed high Hg levels, especially in group A and this substance might be a possible risk factor for anemia. Also, geographical areas seemed to modify this effect, pointing to the influence of other factors, which should be better evaluated.

Association Between Caries Experience and School Performance in an Island Community: Full-Time versus Part-Time Public Schools

Abstract Objective: To investigate the association between caries experience and school performance among children and adolescents living in an island community without fluoridated water supply and to compare data according to the type of attended school (full-time or part-time). Material and Methods: A cross-sectional oral health survey in a convenience sample of students (n=147) attending four public schools was performed. Students were examined by one calibrated dentist in the school environment to the obtain prevalence of dental caries (DMFT/dmft) and its consequences using the PUFA/pufa index. Self-reported oral health behavior was also accessed. Data from each student's school performance and absenteeism were extracted from official sources and the school performance was classified into "good" and "fair". The final sample consisted of 120 students. Descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney, Kruskal-Wallis, chi-square tests and binary logistic regression were performed to evaluate collected data. Results: Students´ age ranged between 5 to 19 years (10±4.3). DMFT/dmft mean were 1.3 (±2.3) and 3.05 (±3.4), respectively. Conclusion: Participants from the full-time school presented better oral health status than their peers in the part-time schools (p<0.05). A significant association was found between the prevalence of caries-free participants and good school performance when the factor age range was controlled (OR=2.87). Moreover, attendance to full-time schools appeared to be a protective factor for good oral health conditions (AU).

Accuracy of Self-Reported Arterial Hypertension in Brazil: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Background Self-reported hypertension is a useful method to estimate prevalence in the population. However, it is necessary to evaluate its accuracy, in relation to the gold-standard diagnostic methods of the disease. Objectives To estimate combined measures of sensitivity and specificity for self-reported hypertension, using Brazilian validation studies that included gold standard methods. Methods A systematic review and a meta-analysis were developed. Two independent examiners evaluated 1389 and read 113 potentially eligible articles. Since self-reported morbidity is influenced by the cultural and economic characteristics of a population, as well as by its accessibility to medical care, only studies from one country (Brazil) were included. First, a qualitative analysis was performed, evaluating the relationship between self-reported hypertension and its measurement through gold-standard methods. Subsequently, a meta-analysis estimated the combined sensitivity and specificity for the included studies. Due to a high heterogeneity among studies, the meta-analysis used a random effects model. Bias risks were evaluated by the QUADAS-2 protocol and the standard significance level of 10% was used in all modelling. Results Five studies were included in the qualitative analysis; and four had the necessary information for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Patient selection and Index Test (the question allowing for self-reporting) were the domains with the highest risk of bias. In the meta-analysis, combined sensitivity and specificity were 77%(95%CI:[74.5-79.0%]) and 88%(95%CI:[86.3-88.6%]), respectively. Conclusions The analysed studies allowed for the estimation of more reliable values for combined sensitivity and specificity. These values were higher than those usually found in studies with greater population heterogeneity.

Reference Equation for the Six-Minute Walk Test in Brazilian Patients with Obesity

Abstract Background: Obesity has repercussions on functional capacity (FC). The six-minute walk test (6MWT) is a useful tool for assessing submaximal FC, and the distance reached at 6 minutes of walking (D6MW) is a relevant prognostic marker. Objective: This paper aims to establish a reference equation for the distance predicted in 6MWT in obese Brazilian subjects. Methods: This study included 460 patients (306 women), with a body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2, 71% (328) of whom presented a grade III obesity (BMI ≥ 40 Kg/m²) and were evaluated with 6MWT. Heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and Borg scale perception of effort were recorded before and after the 6MWT. For statistical analysis, Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests, an unpaired T-Test, Pearson's correlation, and multiple linear regression were used, together with a significance level set at p<0.05. Results: Gender, age, and BMI were significantly correlated with D6MW and were identified by multiple linear regression as the best predictors of the D6MW. Together, they explain 48.7% of the D6MW variance for obese Brazilian subjects. Based on these findings, an equation was proposed - D6MW = 930.138 + (27.130 x Genderfemales = 0; males = 1) − (5.550 x BMI kg/m2) − (4.442 x Age years). When the average of the D6MW obtained with the above equation was compared to the average calculated with the equations described in medical literature for healthy and obese individuals, the latter tended to overestimate the D6MW. Conclusion: The proposed reference equation exhibited better assessment of FC in obese Brazilian patients, providing proper subsidies for the follow up ofinterventions in this population..

Adipose tissue-derived stromal/stem cells + cholecalciferol: a pilot study in recent-onset type 1 diabetes patients

ABSTRACT Objective: Adipose tissue-derived stromal/stem cells (ASCs) and vitamin D have immunomodulatory actions that could be useful for type 1 diabetes (T1D). We aimed in this study to investigate the safety and efficacy of ASCs + daily cholecalciferol (VIT D) for 6 months in patients with recent-onset T1D. Materials and methods: In this prospective, dual-center, open trial, patients with recent onset T1D received one dose of allogenic ASC (1 x 106 cells/kg) and cholecalciferol 2,000 UI/day for 6 months (group 1). They were compared to patients who received chol-ecalciferol (group 2) and standard treatment (group 3). Adverse events were recorded; C-peptide (CP), insulin dose and HbA1c were measured at baseline (T0), after 3 (T3) and 6 months (T6). Results: In group 1 (n = 7), adverse events included transient headache (all), mild local reactions (all), tachycardia (n = 4), abdominal cramps (n = 1), thrombophlebitis (n = 4), scotomas (n = 2), and central retinal vein occlusion at T3 (n = 1, resolution at T6). Group 1 had an increase in basal CP (p = 0.018; mean: 40.41+/-40.79 %), without changes in stimulated CP after mixed meal (p = 0.62), from T0 to T6. Basal CP remained stable in groups 2 and 3 (p = 0.58 and p = 0.116, respectively). Group 1 had small insulin requirements (0.31+/- 0.26 UI/kg) without changes at T6 (p = 0.44) and HbA1c decline (p = 0.01). At T6, all patients (100%; n = 7) in group 1 were in honeymoon vs 75% (n = 3/4) and 50% (n = 3/6) in groups 2 and 3, p = 0.01. Conclusions: Allogenic ASC + VIT D without immunosuppression was safe and might have a role in the preservation of β-cells in patients with recent-onset T1D. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03920397.

Risk factors for survival after head and neck cancer: a cohort study in the south of Espirito Santo state

Introduction: Head and check squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) affects the Brazilian population with a high incidence and usually has a poor prognosis. Objective: To evaluate the risk factors for survival of patients diagnosed with HNSCC and investigate the influence of epidemiological and clinical factors on the prognostic of HNSCC in southeastern Brazil. Materials and Methods: Clinical records of 211 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinomas diagnosed and treated between 2010 and 2018 at a reference hospital for oncology, were selected. Clinical and pathological characteristics at diagnosis and for 5 years follow up were collected. The Kaplan-Meier Curve with the Log-Rank test assessed survival, and forward stepwise multivariate logistic regression model was performed to determine the factors affecting HNSCC survival. Results: The 5-year overall survival was 30.0%. Laryngeal cancer was the most prevalent (34.1%), followed by oropharynx (33.6%) and oral cavity (24.2%). About 64% of patients had locally advanced tumors (T3 and T4) and 75.4% of the patients were diagnosed as being in the advanced clinical stages (III and IV). In the multivariate analysis, the locally advanced tumors (OR=2.748; 95%CI:1.310- 5.765), palliative chemotherapy (OR=15.757; 95%CI:5.868-42.309) and metastasis during oncological follow-up (OR=11.602; 95%CI:1.380-97.507) were associated with a poor prognosis. Conclusion: The survival rate was considered low when compared with the literature. Locally advanced tumors, palliative chemotherapy, and the appearance of metastases during follow-up were considered the most important risk factors associated with a low HNSCC survival.

Introdução: O carcinoma de células escamosas (CCE) de cabeça e pescoço possui alta incidência na população brasileira e normalmente está associado a um prognóstico desfavorável. Objetivo: Avaliar os fatores de risco para sobrevida de pacientes diagnosticados com CCE de cabeça e pescoço e investigar a influência de fatores clínicoepidemiológicos no prognóstico do CCE. Materiais e Métodos: Foram selecionados prontuários de 211 pacientes com CCE de cabeça e pescoço diagnosticados e tratados entre 2010 e 2018 em um hospital de referência em oncologia. Foram coletadas as características clínico-patológicas no momento do diagnóstico e nos 5 anos de acompanhamento. A curva de Kaplan-Meier com o teste Log-Rank avaliou a sobrevivência e o modelo de regressão logística multivariada progressiva foram realizados para determinar os fatores que afetaram a sobrevivência do CCE. Resultados: A sobrevida global em 5 anos foi de 30,0%. O câncer de laringe foi o mais prevalente (34,1%), seguido de orofaringe (33,6%) e cavidade oral (24,2%). 64% dos pacientes apresentavam tumores localmente avançados (T3 e T4) e 75,4% dos pacientes foram diagnosticados em estádios clínicos avançados (III e IV). Na análise multivariada, os tumores localmente avançados (RC = 2,748; IC 95%: 1,310-5,765), quimioterapia paliativa (RC = 15,757; IC 95%: 5,868-42,309) e metástases durante o acompanhamento oncológico (RC = 11,602; IC 95%: 1,380-97,507) foram associados a um pior prognóstico. Conclusão: A taxa de sobrevida foi considerada baixa. Tumores localmente avançados, quimioterapia paliativa e aparecimento de metástases durante o seguimento foram considerados os fatores de risco mais importantes associados a uma baixa sobrevida.

Classification and regression trees for predicting the risk of a negative test result for tuberculosis infection in Brazilian healthcare workers: a cross-sectional study / Árvore de regressão e classificação na predição do risco de resultados negativos para infecção por tuberculose em profissionais de saúde no Brasil: um estudo transversal

ABSTRACT: Objectives: Healthcare workers (HCWs) have a high risk of acquiring tuberculosis infection (TBI). However, annual testing is resource-consuming. We aimed to develop a predictive model to identify HCWs best targeted for TBI screening. Methodology: We conducted a secondary analysis of previously published results of 708 HCWs working in primary care services in five Brazilian State capitals who underwent two TBI tests: tuberculin skin test and Quantiferon®-TB Gold in-tube. We used a classification and regression tree (CART) model to predict HCWs with negative results for both tests. The performance of the model was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve and the area under the curve (AUC), cross-validated using the same dataset. Results: Among the 708 HCWs, 247 (34.9%) had negative results for both tests. CART identified that physician or a community health agent were twice more likely to be uninfected (probability = 0.60) than registered or aid nurse (probability = 0.28) when working less than 5.5 years in the primary care setting. In cross validation, the predictive accuracy was 68% [95% confidence interval (95%CI): 65 - 71], AUC was 62% (95%CI 58 - 66), specificity was 78% (95%CI 74 - 81), and sensitivity was 44% (95%CI 38 - 50). Conclusion: Despite the low predictive power of this model, CART allowed to identify subgroups with higher probability of having both tests negative. The inclusion of new information related to TBI risk may contribute to the construction of a model with greater predictive power using the same CART technique.

RESUMO: Objetivos: Desenvolver um modelo preditivo para identificar profissionais de saúde com maior probabilidade de resultado negativo para dois testes de diagnóstico da infecção latente por Mycobacterium tuberculosis (ILTB). Métodos: Foi realizada uma análise secundária dos resultados publicados anteriormente de 708 profissionais de saúde da atenção primária, de cinco capitais brasileiras, submetidos à prova tuberculínica e ao Quantiferon®-TB Gold in-tube. Um modelo preditivo com árvore de classificação e regressão (CART, Classification and regression tree) foi construído. A avaliação do desempenho foi realizada por meio da análise receiver operating characteristics (ROC) e area under the curve (AUC). Utilizamos o mesmo banco de dados para validação cruzada do modelo. Resultados: Entre os 708 profissionais de saúde, 247 (34,9%) apresentaram resultado negativo para os testes. A CART identificou que os médicos e agentes comunitários de saúde apresentaram duas vezes mais chances de não estarem infectados (probabilidade = 0,60) que os enfermeiros e técnicos/auxiliares de enfermagem (probabilidade = 0,28) nos casos com menos de 5,5 anos de atuação na atenção primária. Na validação cruzada, a acurácia do modelo preditivo foi de 68% [intervalo de confiança de 95% (IC95%) 65 - 71)], AUC de 62% (IC95% 58 - 66), especificidade de 78% (IC95% 74 - 81) e sensibilidade de 44% (IC95% 38 - 50). Conclusão: Apesar do baixo poder preditivo do modelo, a CART permitiu identificar subgrupos com maior probabilidade de terem ambos os testes negativos. A inclusão de novas informações relacionadas ao risco de ILTB pode contribuir para a construção de um modelo com maior poder preditivo utilizando a mesma técnica.

Health perception, health conditions, and smoking cessation in Brazil / Percepção e condições de saúde e cessação de tabagismo no Brasil

Abstract Background Smoking cessation is strongly associated with motivational factors. It is possible that individuals who have successfully stopped smoking have different conditions and judgments about their own health. Objective To evaluate the relationship between tobacco-related diseases, health perception, and successful smoking cessation in Brazil. Method Cross-sectional observational study using data from the 2013 National Health Survey (PNS - 2013). Sociodemographic and health-related variables were considered in this study. Logistic regression modeling was carried out considering smoking cessation as outcome. Results Successful smoking cessation attempt was associated with age (OR=2.9, p=0.004), marital status (OR=1.69, p<0.001), level of education (OR=1.34, p<0.001), socioeconomic status (OR=1.58, p<0.001), census status (OR=1.07; p<0.001), access to pro-tobacco advertising (OR=1.74, p<0.001), anti-tobacco campaigns (OR=3.30; p<0.001) and, in particular, living with other smokers (OR=9.65; p<0.001). Conclusion Knowledge about sociodemographic and census status variables is relevant to the assessment of future specific health promotion policies.

Resumo Introdução A cessação do tabagismo tem forte relação com fatores motivacionais. É possível que indivíduos que obtiveram sucesso na cessação do tabagismo possam ter diferentes condições e julgamentos sobre sua própria saúde. Objetivo avaliar a relação entre as doenças tabaco-relacionadas, percepção de saúde e o sucesso na cessação de tabagismo no Brasil. Método estudo transversal que utilizou dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (PNS) de 2013. Foram considerados para o estudo dois grupos de variáveis: sociodemográficas e variáveis relacionadas à saúde. Foi realizada modelagem por regressão logística, cujo desfecho foi ter conseguido parar de fumar. Resultados Houve associação entre sucesso na tentativa de parar de fumar com a idade (OR=2,9, p=0,004), estado civil (OR=1,69, p<0,001), escolaridade (OR=1,34, p<0,001), classe socioeconômica (OR=1,58, p<0,001), situação censitária (OR=1,07; p<0,001), acesso à publicidade pró-tabaco (OR=1,74, p<0,001), campanhas antitabaco (OR=3,30; p<0,001) e, principalmente, para convívio domiciliar com outro fumante (OR=9,65; p<0,001). Conclusão O conhecimento de variáveis sociodemográficas e de situação de domicílio é relevante para avaliação de políticas de promoção da saúde específicas.

Diabetes influences liver stiffness in chronic hepatitis C patients with and without virological cure: A longitudinal study

OBJECTIVES: The aim was to prospectively assess the variation in liver stiffness (LS) and the associated factors for LS progression in a cohort of naïve, non-responder (NR), and sustained virological response (SVR) chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients. METHODS: This was a longitudinal study on CHC patients prospectively followed with serial elastography (Fibroscan®). The LS progression rate was determined, and the associated factors for progression were assessed using multiple linear regression analysis. RESULTS: A total of 406 patients were followed up for 44 (35-53) months [naïve (29%), NR (24%), and SVR (47%)]. At the end of the follow-up period, the SVR group had a significant decrease in LS [11.8 (9.2) vs. 8.8 (8.4) kPa (p<0.001)], the NR group had a significant increase in LS [6.6 (5.2) vs. 7.1 (4.5) kPa (p=0.069)], and the naïve group had no change in LS [6.3 (3.0) vs. 6.0 (3.8) kPa (p=0.22)]. The related factors for LS progression were lack of SVR (p=0.002) and diabetes (p=0.05). In the non-diabetic SVR group, a negative rate of progression (-0.047 kPa/month) was observed, whereas in the diabetic SVR group, a positive rate of progression (+0.037 kPa/month) was observed. The highest rate of progression was observed in NR with diabetes at the rate of +0.044 kPa/month. CONCLUSION: LS in diabetes patients progresses despite SVR, suggesting the need for a close follow-up of this group post-treatment considering the risk of progression of liver disease even after SVR.

Comparison of glucose measurement on dried blood spots versus plasma samples in pregnant women with and without anemia

ABSTRACT Objective Compare the concordance degree between plasma glucose and glucose measurements on Dried Blood Spots (DBS) during pregnancy. Subjects and methods Glucose measurement was performed in pregnant women after a fast of 8-12 hours. Venous blood was collected with sodium fluoride, the plasma was separated, and glucose measured by the enzymatic oxidase glucose method. Capillary blood samples were collected and analyzed by DBS. For statistics, the paired Student's t test, interclass correlation coefficient (ICC), graphic approach of Altman and Bland, and survival - concordance plot were used. Results 307 pregnant women were evaluated, 88.6% without diabetes and 11.4% with previous diabetes. The glucose ranged from 66 to 190 mg/dL [3.66 to 10.55 mmol/L] in plasma and from 53 to 166 mg/dL [2.94 to 9.21 mmol/L] in DBS. The glucose average values were 88.1 ± 12 mg/dL [4.98 ± 0.67 mmol/L] in plasma and 89.2 ±11,5 mg/dL, [4.95 ± 0.64 mmol/L] in DBS - p-value = 0.084. The ICC value was moderate (0.510), and Pearson's correlation coefficient was r = 0.507 p < 0.001. Altman and Bland's graph showed that difference between the values obtained by both methods is -24.62 to 22.3 mg/dL [-1.37 to 1.24 mmol/L]. Significant fixed bias (-1,16 average difference) and proportional bias (r = 0.056; p = 0.33) were not observed. Anemia was associated with differences between plasma glucose and DBS measurements (p = 0.031). Conclusion Capillary glucose in DBS correlates with plasma glucose; however, the methods do not present good concordance. The presence of anemia worsens this result.

The clinical and molecular diagnosis of childhood and adolescent pulmonary tuberculosis in referral centers

Abstract INTRODUCTION: The diagnostic accuracy of Xpert MTB/RIF (Xpert) in pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) in children is lower than in adults. In Brazil, the diagnosis of PTB is based on a diagnostic score system (DSS). This study aims to study the role of Xpert in children and adolescents with PTB symptoms. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 3 referral centers to TB. Children and adolescents (0-19 years old) whose respiratory samples were submitted to Xpert were included. Statistical analysis (bivariate and logistic regression) to assess the simultaneous influence of TB-related variables on the occurrence of Xpert detectable in TB cases was done. To evaluate the agreement or disagreement between Xpert results with acid-fast bacillus (AFB) and cultures, κ method was used (significancy level of 5%). RESULTS: Eighty-eight patients were included in the study and PTB occurred in 43 patients (49%) and Xpert was detectable in 21 patients (24%). Adolescents and positive culture results were independent predictive variables of Xpert positivity. DSS sensitivity compared with the final diagnosis of TB was 100% (95% CI, 88.1-100%), specificity was 97.2% (95% CI, 85.5-99.9%). The accuracy of the method was 98.5% (95% CI, 91.7-99.9%). CONCLUSIONS: Xpert contributed to diagnosis in 9% of patients with AFB and in culture negative cases. DSS indicated relevance for this diagnostic approach of intrathoracic TB (ITB) in reference centers for presenting data both with high sensitivity and specificity.