Knowledge and perceptions regarding pulmonary rehabilitation amongst Ecuadorian physicians following COVID-19 outbreak.

Background: Pulmonary rehabilitation is already an established technique for patients with chronic respiratory disease, aimed at improving breathlessness, exercise capacity, health status, and well-being. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and perceptions about pulmonary rehabilitation post-COVID-19 infection among Ecuadorian physicians. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey-based study using a 27-item questionnaire to assess the knowledge about specific topics related to pulmonary rehabilitation. The sample comprised Ecuadorian physicians who were currently enrolled to an active medical practice that included care to COVID-19 patients. Descriptive statistics were applied for demographic variables of interest. A chi-square goodness of fit test was used to determine whether the observed frequencies of each of the answers per query were within or outside of the expected frequencies by chance. Results: In total, 295 participants answered the survey, out of which 57.3% were general practitioners. Most agreed that COVID-19 infected patients must be followed-up with some measurement of respiratory function (81.4%, p=0.000), but only 18.3% (n=54, p=0.000) were aware of specific guidelines related to rehabilitation. 93.6% (n=276, p=0.000) considered that pulmonary rehabilitation provides a benefit, of any kind, to patients with past COVID-19 infection. Conclusions: Most physicians considered pulmonary rehabilitation beneficial following COVID-19. However, there is uncertainty on how to adequately follow up patients, complementary tests, and specific guidelines outlining rehabilitative interventions.

Exploring the role of information and communication technologies in allergic rhinitis in specialist centers: Patient perspectives on usefulness, value, and impact on healthcare.

INTRODUCTION: Information and communication technologies (ICTs) improve patient-centered care and are routinely used in Allergic Rhinitis (AR), but patients' preferences and attitudes are unexplored. This study examines AR-related information preferences and ICT use by AR patients. METHODS: A survey-based cross-sectional study was carried out in Ecuador from July to September 2019 in seven centers of reference for allergic disease. Participants were 18 years or older, diagnosed with AR and had access to ICT and the Internet. Descriptive and binomial logistic regressions were performed. A value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: 217 patients were included. 47% (n = 102) used ICTs to learn about AR, of which 38.2% (n = 83) found it useful. Most of participants (75%, n = 164) did not think that ICTs reduce their need to see a doctor. Individuals with poorer quality of life were more likely to utilize ICTs to contact their doctor (OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.04-1.55), and more likely to be interested in AR-related content (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.00-1.52). Patients with long-term AR or other allergies were less likely to use ICTs (OR 0.92 and OR 0.40 respectively). Higher education and lower quality of life may increase AR apps adoption (OR 4.82, 95% CI 1.11-21.00). Academic preparation five-fold increased ICT use for health provider communication (OR 5.29, 95% CI 1.18-23.72). Mild-persistent AR enhanced the probabilities of using ICTs to share experiences and communicate with other patients (OR 12.59, 95% CI 1.32-120.35). CONCLUSIONS: Our study emphasizes the importance of tailoring digital resources to patient needs by considering factors such as quality of life, education, and specific subgroups within the AR patient population. Additionally, the findings suggest that while ICTs can play a valuable role in patient education and support, they should complement, rather than replace, traditional medical care for many AR patients.

Atendimento psicológico ambulatorial em hospital geral: reflexões de um(a) estagiário(a) de psicologia / Ambulatory psychological care in general hospital: reflections of a psychology intern / Servicio psicológico ambulatorio en hospital general: reflexiones de una pasante de psicología

Trata-se de um relato de experiência sobre a prática de estágio curricular em psicologia realizado em um ambulatório de especialidades em um hospital geral, vinculado ao Sistema Único de Saúde. O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar reflexões sobre a prática de estágio curricular na ênfase de promoção e prevenção à saúde, a partir de um relato de experiência. Num primeiro momento, apresenta-se um delineamento histórico sobre a formação do que se conhece hoje como ambulatório em saúde mental e, posteriormente, são apresentados alguns dispositivos que podem embasar a prática do psicólogo neste contexto, fundamentados na interação entre saberes trabalhados na formação em psicologia. Os resultados apontam para a necessidade das reflexões sobre as práticas que têm sido realizadas no campo ambulatorial ­ tendo em vista a necessidade de se atualizarem as definições técnicas sobre a atuação do psicólogo nessa área ­, assim como a necessidade da criação de critérios que avaliem os métodos utilizados pelos psicólogos. Dessa forma, se constata a necessidade de atualização do ensino em psicologia e da prática profissional no atendimento em saúde mental. (AU)

This paper describes a Psychology curricular internship experience at a specialty clinic managed by the Brazilian Public Health System. The goal of this paper is to discuss the practice of curricular internship required by the curricular emphasis on health promotion and prevention, based on expe-rience report. Initially, the paper explores the historical constitution of what is currently known as mental health clinic. Then, we present some tools that may support the psychologist's practice in this context, based on the interac-tion between the distinct knowledges which students must acquire to obtain a Psychology degree. The results show a need to reflect on the practices that are currently being carried out in mental health clinics ­ given the necessity to update the technical definitions that guide psychologists' work in this field ­ as well as a need to specify criteria for the evaluation of the methods employed by psychologists. Thus, we see that there is a need to update teaching in Psychology and professional practices in the field of mental health. (AU)

Este artículo presenta un relato de experiencia sobre la pasantía curricular realizada en un ambulatorio de especialidades vinculado al Sistema Único de Salud. Tiene el fin de presentar reflexiones sobre la pasantía con énfasis en la promoción a la salud y prevención basado en un informe de experiencia. En un primer momento, el artículo presenta un diseño histórico sobre la formación de lo que hoy se conoce como ambulatorio de salud mental y, posteriormente, se presentan algunos dispositivos que pueden apoyar la práctica del psicólogo en este contexto, a partir de la interacción entre conocimientos trabajados en la formación en psicología. Los resultados apuntan la necesidad de reflexionar sobre las prácticas que se han realizado en el ámbito ambulatorio - ante la necesidad de actualizar las definiciones técnicas sobre el desempeño del psicó-logo en esta área - así como la necesidad de generar criterios que evalúen las metodologías utilizadas por los psicólogos. Por lo tanto, queda evidente la necesidad de actualizar la docencia en psicología y la práctica profesional en el cuidado de la salud mental. (AU)

Tessituras da adolescência na pandemia: demandas psicossociais de um CAPSi / Adolescence structures in the pandemic: psychosocial demands of a CAPSi Center / Tesituras de la adolescencia en la pandemia: demandas psicosociales de un CAPS

A pandemia da Covid-19 afetou, drasticamente, o campo social. O público adolescente, por apresentar um caráter específico do desenvolvimento, também é atravessado na pandemia. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi identificar e descrever quais as demandas de atenção psicossocial que emergiram nos acolhimentos em um CAPSi de um município do interior do estado do Rio Grande do Sul na pandemia no período da adolescência. O método utilizado foi o modelo quali-quantitativo, de caráter descritivo e exploratório. Os resultados das demandas psicossociais que mais apareceram foram: comportamento suicida, ansiedade, heteroagressividade, autoagressividade, conflitos familiares e dificuldades de aprendizagem. Através do estudo pode-se perceber os atravessamentos que a pandemia da Covid-19 reverberou no público adolescente acolhido neste CAPSi, e o que essas demandas mostram sobre as questões de saúde mental no cenário pandêmico. (AU)

The Covid-19 pandemic has drastically affected the social field. Adolescents, as they present a specific character of development, are also affected by the pandemic. The objective of this research was to identify and to describe the psychosocial care demands that emerged in the receptions at a CAPSi, a Child and Youth Psychosocial Care Center, in a municipality in the interior of the state of Rio Grande do Sul, in the pandemic, during the adolescence period. The method used was the qualitative-quantitative model, with a descriptive and exploratory character. The results of the psychosocial demands that appeared the most were: suicidal behavior, anxiety, heteroaggression, self-aggression, family conflicts and learning difficulties. Through the study, it is possible to perceive the crossings that the Covid-19 pandemic reverberated in the adolescent public hosted in this CAPSi, and what these demands show about mental health issues in the pandemic scenario. (AU)

La pandemia del Covid-19 afectó, drásticamente, al campo social. El público adolescente, por presentar un carácter específico del desarrollo, también se ve afectado en la pandemia. El objetivo de esta investigación fue identificar y describir cuales las demandas de atención psicosocial que surgieron en las acogidas en un CAPSi de un municipio del interior del estado de Rio Grande do Sul en la pandemia en el periodo de la adolescencia. El método utilizado fue el modelo cuali-cuantitativo, de carácter descriptivo y exploratorio. Los resultados de las demandas psicosociales que más aparecieron fueron: comportamiento suicida, ansiedad, heteroagresividad,auto agresividad,conflictos familiares y dificuldates de aprendizaje. A través del estudio se puede percibir los atravesamientos que la pandemia del Covid-19 reverberó en el público adolescente acogido en este CAPSi, y lo que esas demandas muestran sobre las cuestiones de salud mental en el escenario pandémico. (AU)

Attitudes toward depression among Ecuadorian physicians using the Spanish-validated version of the Revised Depression Attitude Questionnaire (R-DAQ).

PURPOSE: Depression is inadequately recognized and managed, and physicians' attitudes toward this condition and its treatment may play a part in this. This study aimed to assess Ecuadorian physicians' attitudes toward depression. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study conducted using the validated Revised Depression Attitude Questionnaire (R-DAQ). The questionnaire was delivered to Ecuadorian physicians, and the response rate was 88.8%. RESULTS: 76.4% of participants had never received previous training in depression, and 52.1% of them indicated neutral or limited professional confidence when dealing with depressed patients. More than two-thirds of the participants reported an optimistic attitude toward the generalist perspective of depression. CONCLUSION: Overall, physicians in Ecuador's healthcare settings were optimistic and held positive attitudes toward patients with depression. However, a lack of confidence in the management of depression and a need for ongoing training were found, especially among medical professionals who are not in daily contact with patients with depression.

Genetic and epidemiological description of an outbreak of circulating vaccine-derived polio-virus type 2 (cVDPV2) in Angola, 2019-2020.

After six years without any detection of poliomyelitis cases, Angola reported a case of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) with paralysis onset date of 27 March 2019. Ultimately, 141 cVDPV2 polio cases were reported in all 18 provinces in 2019-2020, with particularly large hotspots in the south-central provinces of Luanda, Cuanza Sul, and Huambo. Most cases were reported from August to December 2019, with a peak of 15 cases in October 2019. These cases were classified into five distinct genetic emergences (emergence groups) and have ties with cases identified in 2017-2018 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. From June 2019 to July 2020, the Angola Ministry of Health and partners conducted 30 supplementary immunization activity (SIA) rounds as part of 10 campaign groups, using monovalent OPV type 2 (mOPV2). There were Sabin 2 vaccine strain detections in the environmental (sewage) samples taken after mOPV2 SIAs in each province. Following the initial response, additional cVDPV2 polio cases occurred in other provinces. However, the national surveillance system did not detect any new cVDPV2 polio cases after 9 February 2020. While reporting subpar indicator performance in epidemiological surveillance, the laboratory and environmental data as of May 2021 strongly suggest that Angola successfully interrupted transmission of cVDPV2 early in 2020. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic did not allow a formal Outbreak Response Assessment (OBRA). Improving the sensitivity of the surveillance system and the completeness of AFP case investigations will be vital to promptly detect and interrupt viral transmission if a new case or sewage isolate are identified in Angola or central Africa.

Emerging Therapeutic Strategies for Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Of all central nervous systems tumors, 10-20% are located in the brainstem; diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) is diagnosed in 80% of them. With over five decades of clinical trial testing, there are no established therapeutic options for DIPG. This research article aims to collate recent clinical trial data and provide a landscape for the most promising therapies that have emerged in the past five years. METHODS: PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane were systematically searched using the following keywords: Diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, Pontine, Glioma, Treatment, Therapy, Therapeutics, curative, and/or Management. Both adult and pediatric patients with newly diagnosed or progressive DIPG were considered in the clinical trial setting. The risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. RESULTS: A total of 22 trials were included reporting the efficacy and safety outcomes among patients. First, five trials reported outcomes of blood-brain barrier bypass via single or repeated-dose intra-arterial therapy or convection-enhanced delivery. Second, external beam radiation regimens were assessed for safety and efficacy in three trials. Third, four trials administered intravenous treatment without using chemotherapeutic regimens. Fourth, eight trials reported the combinations of one or more chemotherapeutic agents. Fifth, immunotherapy was reported in two trials in an adjuvant monotherapy in the post-radiotherapy setting. CONCLUSION: This research article captures a clinical picture of the last five years of the direction toward which DIPG research is heading. The article finds that re-irradiation may prolong survival in patients with progressive DIPG; it also instills that insofar palliative radiotherapy has been a key prognostic choice.

The effectiveness of real-time computer-aided and quality control systems in colorectal adenoma and polyp detection during colonoscopies: a meta-analysis.

This meta-analysis aims to quantify the effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI)-supported colonoscopy compared to standard colonoscopy in adenoma detection rate (ADR) differences with the use of computer-aided detection and quality control systems. Moreover, the polyp detection rate (PDR) intergroup differences and withdrawal times will be analyzed. Methods: This study was conducted adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Studies were searched across PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science. Keywords including the following 'Artificial Intelligence, Polyp, Adenoma, Detection, Rate, Colonoscopy, Colorectal, Colon, Rectal' were used. Odds ratio (OR) applying 95% CI for PDR and ADR were computed. SMD with 95% CI for withdrawal times were computed using RevMan 5.4.1 (Cochrane). The risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2 tool. Results: Of 2562 studies identified, 11 trials were included comprising 6856 participants. Of these, 57.4% participants were in the AI group and 42.6% individuals were in in the standard group. ADR was higher in the AI group compared to the standard of care group (OR=1.51, P=0.003). PDR favored the intervened group compared to the standard group (OR=1.89, P<0.0001). A medium measure of effect was found for withdrawal times (SMD=0.25, P<0.0001), therefore with limited practical applications. Conclusion: AI-supported colonoscopies improve PDR and ADR; however, no noticeable worsening of withdrawal times is noted. Colorectal cancers are highly preventable if diagnosed early-on. With AI-assisted tools in clinical practice, there is a strong potential to reduce the incidence rates of cancers in the near future.

Ileal Bile Acid Transporter Blockers for Cholestatic Liver Disease in Pediatric Patients with Alagille Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Alagille syndrome (ALGS) is a rare, debilitating inheritable disease that is associated with refractory pruritus due to chronic cholestasis. The following systemic review and meta-analysis presents the latest evidence for ileal bile acid transport (IBAT) blockers in AGLS patients in order to improve their efficacy. This study adhered to PRISMA 2020 Statement guidelines. A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and the Cochrane library was conducted from inception until 23 October 2022. A combination of the following keywords was used: Alagille syndrome, therapeutics, treatment, therapy. Meta-analytical outcomes included effect directions of end-line changes in serum bile acids (sBAs), Itch Scale scores (ItchRO), Multidimensional Fatigue Scale scores, pediatric quality of life (QL), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and total bilirubin. A total of 94 patients across four trials were enrolled and received maralixibat, odevixibat, or a placebo. There was a significant reduction in ItchRO scores by 1.8 points, as well as in sBAs by 75.8 µmol/L. Both the Multidimensional Fatigue Scale and Pediatric QL scale were also improved by 11.4 and 8.3 points, respectively. However, ALT levels were raised by 40 U/L. The efficacy of IBAT inhibitors across current trials was noted. Future trials may focus on the optimization of dosing regimens, considering gastrointestinal side effects and drug-induced ALT elevation in AGLS patients.

Efficacy of Different Dosing Regimens of IgE Targeted Biologic Omalizumab for Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria in Adult and Pediatric Populations: A Meta-Analysis.

Chronic urticaria is a debilitating skin condition that is defined as itchy hives at least twice a week and lasting for six or more weeks, with or without angioedema. Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a form of disease that is witnessed in two-thirds of those with chronic urticaria. This meta-analysis explores the efficacy of differential dosages of omalizumab for outcomes of weekly itching scores, weekly wheal scores, urticarial assessment score 7 (UAS7), and responder rates. Adhering to PRISMA Statement 2020 guidelines, a systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science was conducted until 15 September 2022. A combination of the following keywords was used: omalizumab and chronic urticaria. Data comprising clinical trial ID, name, author/year, country, dosage and time of intervention, inclusion criteria, mean age, female gender, and racial grouping information were obtained. The meta-analytical outcomes were analyzed in RevMan 5.4. The risk-of-bias assessment was conducted using version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2). A total of 10 trials comprising 1705 patients with CSU were included. Notably, 1162 belonged to the intervention group, while 543 were controls. A total of 70.4% of the participants were female in the intervention group, while 65.6% of them were female in the control group. The overall mean age was 38.64 ± 10.66 years. Weekly itch score outcomes were most notable with 150 mg dosage (Cohen's d = −2.6, 95% CI = −4.75, −0.46, p = 0.02). The weekly wheal score outcomes had the largest effect size with 300 mg dosage (Cohen's d = −1.45, 95% CI = −2.2, −0.69, p = 0.0002). For UAS7 outcomes, the largest effect size was yielded with 150 mg dosage (Cohen's d = −6.92, 95% CI: −10.38, −3.47, p < 0.0001). The response rate to omalizumab had a likelihood of being higher with 300 mg of intervention compared to placebo (OR = 8.65, 95% CI = 4.42, 16.93, p < 0.0001). Well-rounded urticarial symptom resolution was observed with 150 mg and 300 mg dosages of omalizumab. Improvement of UAS7 was more comparable with 150 mg dosage, whereas the chance of response to treatment was higher with 300 mg dosage. Our findings support omalizumab as an effective intervention for adult and pediatric populations that are resistant to many therapies, including high-dose H1-antihistamines.

Infância e práticas de cuidado nos Centros de Atenção Psicossocial à Infância e Adolescência (Capsi) / Childhood and care practices in the field of child and youth mental health (Capsi) / Infancia y prácticas del cuidado en el campo de la salud mental infanto juvenil (Capsi)

Resumo Neste trabalho, discute-se como a noção de infância vai se constituindo nas narrativas de profissionais de saúde que atuam em Centros de Atenção Psicossociais Infantojuvenis (Capsi) e que discursos sobre as infâncias se organizam, desdobrando-se nas ações de cuidado às crianças nos serviços de saúde mental. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativo-exploratória, baseada em entrevistas semiestruturadas, observações participantes e diários de campo, discutidas através da análise temática. Como resultados desse processo, observa-se uma romantização da infância que perpassa a construção do cuidado nos serviços de saúde; a dificuldade da equipe quanto à decisão sobre o que é demanda de Capsi e o que não se enquadra na população adscrita frente à complexidade dos impactos sociais que implicam o diagnóstico; e a ênfase na medicalização em detrimento da construção de ações de caráter psicossocial.

Abstract This paper discusses how the notion of childhood is built in the narrative of Psychosocial Care Centers (Capsi) and which discourses on childhood are articulated and extended to the actions for children care in mental health services. It is a qualitative-exploratory research, based on semi structured interviews, participant observations and field notes, from the theme analysis. As results of this process, it is possible to notice a romantic view of childhood which goes through the constructions of care in the health services; the team difficulty in deciding which is the Capsi demand and which does not adjust to the ascribed population in the face of the complexity of the social impact implied by the diagnosis; and the emphasis on medicalization to the detriment in the construction of psychosocial nature actions.

Resumen En este trabajo se discute como se constituye la noción de infancia en las narrativas de los profesionales de la salud que actúan con niños en los Centros de Atención Psicosocial Infantil y Juvenil (Capsi) y qué discursos sobre la infancia se organizan y extienden a las acciones de cuidado de los niños en los servicios de salud mental. Se trata de una investigación cualitativa exploratoria, basada en entrevistas semiestructuradas, observaciones participantes y diarios de campo, que luego son discutidos mediante un análisis temático. Como resultados de ese proceso, se observa una "romantización" de la infancia que permea la construcción del cuidado en los servicios de salud; la dificultad del equipo para decidir cuál es la demanda de los Capsi y que no se ajusta a la población adscrita frente a la complejidad del impacto social que implica el diagnóstico; y el énfasis en la medicalización en detrimento de la construcción de acciones de carácter psicosocial.

A Systematic Review of Internet of Things in Clinical Laboratories: Opportunities, Advantages, and Challenges.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is the network of physical objects embedded with sensors, software, electronics, and online connectivity systems. This study explores the role of IoT in clinical laboratory processes; this systematic review was conducted adhering to the PRISMA Statement 2020 guidelines. We included IoT models and applications across preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical laboratory processes. PubMed, Cochrane Central, CINAHL Plus, Scopus, IEEE, and A.C.M. Digital library were searched between August 2015 to August 2022; the data were tabulated. Cohen's coefficient of agreement was calculated to quantify inter-reviewer agreements; a total of 18 studies were included with Cohen's coefficient computed to be 0.91. The included studies were divided into three classifications based on availability, including preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical. The majority (77.8%) of the studies were real-tested. Communication-based approaches were the most common (83.3%), followed by application-based approaches (44.4%) and sensor-based approaches (33.3%) among the included studies. Open issues and challenges across the included studies included scalability, costs and energy consumption, interoperability, privacy and security, and performance issues. In this study, we identified, classified, and evaluated IoT applicability in clinical laboratory systems. This study presents pertinent findings for IoT development across clinical laboratory systems, for which it is essential that more rigorous and efficient testing and studies be conducted in the future.

Contributing factors to pediatric COVID-19 and MIS-C during the initial waves: A systematic review of 92 case reports.

Background: As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to sweep the world with unprecedented speed and devastation, data has shown that cases in the pediatric population have been significantly lower than in the adult population. We conducted a systematic review of case reports to identify the contributing factors of confirmed pediatric COVID-19 patients. Methods: Using the PubMed platform, and Cochrane Central, we searched for primary studies alone. All database searches were performed between December 2019 and December 2020. We incorporated keywords including "pediatrics," "Case reports," "Cases," "Covid-19″ into all searches. Results: A total of 92 records were included in this novel review. Of all patients, 58% were male and the mean age of the patients was 6.2 years (SD: 5.9). Contributing factors to MIS-C infections were G6PD deficiency (17.6%), Group A streptococcus co-infection (17.6%), infancy (11.8%), whereas those in COVID-19 pediatric patients included congenital (18.5%), and genetic defects (13.8%), in addition to vertical transmission or during infancy (16.9%). Data of baseline demographic characteristics and clinical sequelae of included COVID-19 pediatric and MIS-C patients is presented. Conclusion: With schools reopening and closing, the pediatric age group is susceptible to high rates of COVID-19 community transmission. We provide insights into potential contributing factors to pediatric COVID-19 and MIS-C patients. These insights are critical to guide future guidelines on the management and potential vaccination efforts.

Menstrual irregularities following COVID-19 vaccination: A global cross-sectional survey.

Introduction: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination generates protective immunity against SARS-CoV-2 infection. There is no clear evidence of COVID-19 vaccine-induced menstrual irregularities. Objective: To identify potential menstrual irregularities following COVID-19 vaccine among females. Methods: A worldwide cross-sectional survey study was conducted from June 10, 2021, to July 10, 2021 using online mediums. The survey consisted of 15 questions divided into baseline characteristics, vaccination status and dosage, menstruation and relate factors, and thoughts and knowledge about menstrual irregularities. Non-probability convenience sampling method was used including 510 responses. The results were tabulated, with bivariate analysis and chi-square test results. The sensitivity and specificity test of factors associated to knowledge about menstrual irregularities post COVID-19 vaccination were analyzed by receiver operating characteristic analysis. Results: The associations between healthcare worker (HCW) status and perceptions (χ2 = 10.422; p = 0.064), and knowledge about menstrual irregularities post-vaccination (χ2 = 1.966; p = 0.161) were found. Vaccinated compared to non-vaccinated women had a higher risk of change in inter-cycle length between periods (OR = 3.172; 95% CI = 0.470-21.431). Of 314 HCW vs. 196 non-HCW, 60 (19.1%) vs. 28 (14.3%) were knowledgeable about menstrual irregularities (OR = 1.338, 95% CI = 0.886-2.019 vs. OR = 0.944; 95% CI = 0.873-1.021). On asking the HCW vs. non-HCW about perceptions of COVID-19 vaccine-induced menstrual irregularities, 24 (7.6%) vs. 9 (4.6%) agreed, 139 (44.3%) vs. 67 (34.2%) disagreed, and 151 (48.1%) vs. 120 (61.2%) did not know or chose not applicable. Conclusion: There is a gap in the current understanding of menstrual irregularities, even if temporary, following COVID-19 vaccination that requires further exploration. Misinformation may also be the culprit for the observed proportion of women that noticed changes in their menstrual periods after COVID-19 vaccination.

Social contributors for the rise of COVID-19 infections in South Asia: A large cross-sectional survey.

Background: The ongoing global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) was first reported in South Asia on 30th January 2020 in India. Ever since, certain countries have witnessed multiple waves of COVID-19, requiring attention by public health experts and strategists in the region. The objectives of this study are to assess social contributors to the recurrent waves of COVID-19 in South Asia including first demographic traits, second household characteristics and social measures, third workplace trends and personal protective equipment use, and fourth satisfaction and attitudes concerning public health measures and vaccination status. The study also aims to plan for control strategies focusing on India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, countries with the highest burden of COVID-19 in South Asia. Methods: A population-based large cross-sectional study was conducted from 1st July to August 10th, 2021 using online mediums. The survey consisted of 31 questions divided into sociodemographic and COVID-19 status information, household characteristics and social measures, workplace trends and personal protective measures, satisfaction and attitudes towards public health measures, and vaccination status. Bivariate, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, and the Kruskal Wallis test was conducted for factors associated to COVID-19 infection and positive vaccination status. Findings: We enrolled 1046 participants with 57.1% females and 41.8% males, comprising 48.9% healthcare workers. Statistically significant associations were found using ANOVA based on the Kruskal-Wallis test for differences between thoughts towards public health authorities implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and HCW status were statistically significant (P = 0.002). The most important social predictors for positive vaccination status based on the ROC analysis were gender (P < 0.001), job role (P < 0.001), income group (P < 0.001), healthcare worker status (P < 0.001), household member tested positive (P = 0.007), personal vehicle ownership (P < 0.001), job requiring close contacts (P < 0.001) and co-worker masking habits (P = 0.02). Conclusions: Public health experts and strategists are required to focus control strategies on political and religious gatherings, reopening offices, noncompliance of SOPs by the masses, and crowded commuting to limit the reemergence of COVID-19 infections in countries with the highest burden in the region.

Impact of biosecurity measures, social pressure and bullying on attitudes, perceptions, and job satisfaction levels among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional survey.

INTRODUCTION: The extent and nature of social pressure and bullying towards healthcare workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 remains unclear. The following study identifies the effect of social pressure and bullying directed towards HCWs when using biosecurity measures during the COVID-19 pandemic; further, the impact on perceptions, attitudes and job satisfaction level is also explored. METHODOLOGY: We conducted a cross-sectional survey-based study among 684 Ecuadorian HCWs. The survey consisted of 38 questions related to the frequency, attitudes, and perceptions of biosecurity measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Exploratory factor analysis was performed to assess the validity of the questionnaire. Associations between variables were analysed using χ2 and Fisher's exact test. Using SPSS V.25, qualitative and quantitative data were analysed. RESULTS: Of the 684 participants, 175 (25.59%) experienced or felt bullying or social pressure during the COVID-19 pandemic associated with the use of biosecurity measures. Of these, 40.6% believed it was due to an imbalance of power in the workplace. The perception that HCWs wearing personal protective equipment resulting in bullying was noted in 12% of the respondents. Job satisfaction was positive among 73% of the respondents. Gender (female) and type of institution (public) were noted to contribute towards job satisfaction and bullying experiences. CONCLUSION: Exposure to social bullying and pressure due to the use of biosecurity measures during the COVID-19 pandemic may result in reduced job satisfaction and thoughts about quitting work.

Air Quality, Pollution and Sustainability Trends in South Asia: A Population-Based Study.

INTRODUCTION: Worsening air quality and pollution lead to numerous environmental health and sustainability issues in the South Asia region. This study analyzes India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal for air quality data trends and sustainability indicators. METHODOLOGY: By using a population-based study design, six South Asian countries were analyzed using a step-wise approach. Data were obtained from government websites and publicly available repositories for region dynamics and key variables. RESULTS: Between 1990 and 2020, air quality data indicated the highest rise in CO2 emissions in India (578.5 to 2441.8 million tons) (MT), Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan. Greenhouse gas emissions, from 1990 to 2018, nearly tripled in India (1990.4 to 3346.6 MT of CO2-equivalents), Nepal (20.6 to 54.6 MT of CO2-equivalents), and Pakistan, and doubled in Bangladesh. Methane emissions rose the highest in Pakistan (70.4 to 151 MT of CO2-equivalents), followed by Nepal (17 to 31 MT of CO2-equivalents) and India (524.8 to 669.3 MT of CO2-equivalents). Nitrous oxide nearly doubled in Bangladesh (16.5 to 29.3 MT of CO2-equivalents), India (141.6 to 256.9 MT of CO2-equivalents), Nepal (17 to 31 MT of CO2-equivalents), and more than doubled in Pakistan (27 to 61 MT of CO2-equivalents). On noting particulate matter 2,5 annual exposure, India saw the highest rise from 81.3 µg/m3 (in 1990) to 90.9 µg/m3 (2017), whereas trends were steady in Pakistan (60.34 to 58.3 µg/m3). The highest rise was noted in Nepal (87.6 to 99.7 µg/m3) until 2017. During the coronavirus disease 19 pandemic, the pre-and post-pandemic changes between 2018 and 2021 indicated the highest PM2.5 concentration in Bangladesh (76.9 µg/m3), followed by Pakistan (66.8 µg/m3), India (58.1 µg/m3), Nepal (46 µg/m3) and Sri Lanka (17.4 µg/m3). Overall, South Asian countries contribute to the worst air quality and sustainability trends regions worldwide. CONCLUSIONS: Air pollution is prevalent across a majority of South Asia countries. Owing to unsustainable industrial practices, pollution trends have risen to hazardous levels. Economic, environmental, and human health impacts have manifested and require urgent, concerted efforts by governing bodies in the region.

Pulmonary Evaluation of Post-COVID-19 Patients: An Ecuadorian Experience.

Background: Despite the growing concerns related to the potential of long-term pulmonary sequelae due to COVID-19, data about intermediate and long-term changes in the respiratory function of patients who recover is relatively sparse, particularly in developing countries. Objectives: To assess the characteristics and pulmonary function at follow-up in a sample of Ecuadorian patients that recovered from the virus. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study that included 43 patients after symptomatic COVID infection, who were evaluated by spirometry, single breath DLCO, and 6MWT. For statistical analysis we performed point biserial correlations, and chi squared tests. Results: Overall, 30.3% of patients (n = 13) reported persistent symptoms, with fatigue being the most common (23.3%, n = 10). Around 34.9% (n = 15) of the sample had a restrictive spirometry pattern, 18.6% (n = 8) had an abnormally decreased adjusted DLCO. A restrictive spirometry pattern was associated with an abnormally low adjusted DLCO (χ2(2) = 11,979, p = 0.001). Conclusion: We found that a considerable proportion of patients presented with persistent symptoms and alterations in pulmonary function following COVID-19, mainly a restrictive respiratory pattern and abnormally low DLCO. Further studies are needed to determine which patients may benefit from the follow-up with specific pulmonary function tests.

Physician's attitudes on pulmonary rehabilitation following COVID-19: a brief perspective from a developing country.

Despite the uncertainty about the follow up of COVID-19 survivors, there is a growing body of evidence supporting specific interventions including pulmonary rehabilitation, which may lead to a reduced hospital stay and improved overall respiratory function. The aim of this short report was to assess the attitudes toward pulmonary rehabilitation following COVID-19 among Ecuadorian physicians. A cross-sectional study was conducted, in which a 5-question survey was used to assess the level of agreement to specific statements with a 5-point Likert scale. Out of the 282 participants, 48.2% (n=136) were male, with a mean of 12.6 (SD=11.3) years of experience. More than half of physicians (63.8%, n=180; χ2(2) = 139.224, p=0.000) considered that diagnosis and treatment of patients with sub-acute and chronic COVID-19 pulmonary sequelae is not clear. Additionally, 94.3% (n=266; χ2(2) = 497.331, p=0.000) agreed that pulmonary rehabilitation must be considered as a relevant strategy in long-term care following an acute infection, with 92.6% (n=261; χ2(2) = 449.772, p=0.000) stating it will improve the likelihood of survival and return to baseline health. In conclusion, we found that considerable majority of physicians held positive attitudes to the role of pulmonary rehabilitation and considered it as a relevant strategy in long-term care following COVID-19. However, most of them also conveyed that the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pulmonary sequalae is unclear, and that guidelines for assessing pulmonary function should be established.

Anakinra treatment efficacy in reduction of inflammatory biomarkers in COVID-19 patients: A meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Anakinra is being empirically considered for the treatment of COVID-19 patients. The aim is to assess the efficacy of anakinra treatment on inflammatory marker reduction, including c-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations, serum ferritin, and serum d-dimer levels. METHODS: Adhering to PRISMA 2020 statement guidelines, a systematic search was conducted across the following databases from December 2019 until January 10, 2022: PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Central, Web of Science, Scopus, and EMBASE. The following keywords were employed: Anakinra, COVID*, SARS-CoV-2, inflammatory, CRP, D-dimer, Ferritin, hematological, laboratory, clinical, trials. The findings were collated and presented in a tabulated manner, and statistically analyzed using Review Manger 5.4 (Cochrane). RESULTS: In total, 2032 patients were included (881 in the anakinra and 1151 in the control/standard care group); 69.1% of them were males. Overall, the mean difference from admission until last follow-up in CRP values was -9.66, where notable reductions were seen in the anakinra group (SMD = -0.46, p < 0.00001, N = 655). Serum ferritin mean values were reduced by 1467.16 in the anakinra group (SMD = -0.31, p = 0.004, N = 537). D-dimer mean values were largely reduced by 4.04 in the anakinra group (SMD = -0.38, p = 0.0004, N = 375). CONCLUSION: This study finds that anakinra is potentially a strong candidate as an anti-inflammatory agent to reduce mortality in COVID-19 patients, specifically in patients with elevated inflammatory biomarkers.