Guia metodológico para estimação e projeção de curtíssimo prazo dos gastos em saúde com base nas classificações do SHA 2011. Relatório final

A tempestividade é um princípio básico da qualidade dos dados de gasto, que permite acessar as informações quando necessário. Poder elaborar um orçamento anual e detectar necessidades de ajuste de uma política em vigor ou um desvio nos gastos em relação ao uso previsto dos recursos são exemplos dos benefícios de usar os resultados de uma conta de saúde atual e oportuna. Isso também requer que as contas de saúde sejam preparadas todos os anos e que os resultados sejam apresentados em um prazo curto. A exatidão também é uma condição da qualidade, o que pode tornar necessário esperar por resultados auditados ou por uma busca de dados mais exaustiva. Porém, quando estatísticas históricas não são necessárias, a tempestividade se torna relevante. Atualmente, são usados dados contemporâneos, mesmo que sejam enriquecidos pela análise do passado e das tendências. Este documento apoia a estimação rápida dos gastos nas contas de saúde para assegurar sua tempestividade. Se necessário, a defasagem pode ser compensada nos relatórios usados para gerar as contas com projeções de curto prazo. Quais são as opções contábeis para isso? Que procedimentos são recomendados como usuais para que os resultados considerados padrão sejam oportunos? Espera-se que os números efetivos substituam as projeções de curto prazo tão logo as fontes de dados estejam acessíveis. Contudo, os resultados das projeções exemplificadas neste documento possibilitam que os valores “previstos” contribuam para a tomada de decisões informadas.

Estimation, forecasting, and nowcasting of healthcare expenditure based on the SHA 2011 classifications: A methodological guide. Final report

Timeliness is a core principle of expenditure data quality, which allows access to information when it is needed. Annual budgeting, identifying needs for course correction of existing policies, or detecting deviation of spending from its intended use are some examples of the benefits of using the results of timely, up-to-date health accounts. This implies that health accounts must be compiled on a yearly basis, and their results made available in a timely fashion. However, accuracy is also an essential condition for data quality. This means decision-makers may need to wait for audited results or conduct a more exhaustive search for data. When historical statistics are not required, timeliness is particularly relevant. Current practice is to use contemporary data, even when they can be enriched by analysis of past results and historical trends. This document provides a guide for estimation of health expenditure ahead of time to ensure timeliness of reporting. If necessary, nowcasting can also be used to make up for lags in reporting of data used to generate health accounts. What accounting options are available for such forecasting? What procedures are recommended as standard to ensure timeliness in the results of this process? Actual figures should always replace short-term projections as soon as the corresponding data become available; however, the forecasting exemplified in this document can provide “expected” values that can contribute to informed decision-making.

Refining ECG interpretation: from false assumptions to evidence-based precision

INTRODUCTION: Electrocardiography (ECG) remains a fundamental tool in cardiovascular diagnostics, frequently relying on System 1 thinking-rapid, intuitive pattern recognition (PR). However, this approach can be insufficient when dealing with complex cases where diagnostic precision is essential. This article emphasizes the importance of integrating System 2 thinking-a more deliberate, evidence-based approach-into ECG interpretation to enhance diagnostic accuracy and avoid clinical errors. METHODS: This review examines the distinction between findings that can be adequately managed through System 1 PR and those requiring System 2 reasoning supported by diagnostic accuracy studies. RESULTS: While System 1 PR is effective for recognizing routine ECG findings and self-evident truths, it falls short in conditions where the ECG serves as a mere surrogate marker for underlying pathology. Examples such as false-negative acute coronary occlusions illustrate the need for System 2 reasoning to account for the limitations of ECG's diagnostic precision. Relying solely on System 1 in these contexts risks treating the ECG as an infallible diagnostic tool and as a false gold standard for many diseases, which it is not. CONCLUSION: To prevent diagnostic errors, ECG interpretation must distinguish between self-evident truths suited for PR and findings that require System 2 reasoning due to their association with actual pathology. Clinicians and educators should prioritize evidence-based methods, incorporating System 2 reasoning into practice to improve diagnostic precision and patient outcomes.

Determining Sex from Thai Radius: Discriminant Function Analysis Including the Dry Bone Weight as an Effective Variant / Determinación del Sexo a Partir del Radio Tailandés: Análisis de Función Discriminante que Incluye el Peso del Hueso Seco como Variante Eficaz

SUMMARY: In forensic anthropology, the radius bone has been shown to determine the sex of human remains in a number of different populations. The dry mass and growth of long bones, including the radius, are associated with sex hormone levels; however, the use of bone weight to determine sex has not been sufficiently investigated. The aim of this study was to apply bone morphometric parameters, including maximum length of radius (MLR), circumference at the midshaft of radius (CMR), and weight of radius (WR), to 400 sample radii from a Northeastern Thai population. Univariate and multivariate discriminant functions of all parameters were systemically applied. Equations for calculating sex classification were also determined. Descriptive data analysis showed significant sexual dimorphism in all variables (p < 0.05). The canonical correlation was highest in CMR (0.772) and the ratio of weight to length (0.747). Multivariate discriminant function analysis showed that the measured indices of the right radius were slightly greater than those of the left radius. The parameters demonstrating the highest values of the standardized canonical discriminant function coefficients were CMR (Rt. = 0.496, Lt. 0.431) and WR (Rt. = 0.681, Lt. = 0.715). Moreover, the results of the multivariable (stepwise method) indicated that the best accuracy rates for using combinations of CMR and WR were 94 % (right side) and 92 % (left side). In conclusion, the weight of the radius (rather than the length) is an effective parameter in determining sex.

En antropología forense, se ha demostrado que el hueso radio determina el sexo de los restos humanos en varias poblaciones diferentes. La masa seca y el crecimiento de los huesos largos, incluido el radio, están asociados con los niveles de hormonas sexuales; sin embargo, el uso del peso de los huesos para determinar el sexo no se ha investigado suficientemente. El objetivo de este estudio fue aplicar parámetros morfométricos óseos, incluida la longitud máxima del radio (LMR), la circunferencia en la mitad del radio (CMR) y el peso del radio (PR), a 400 radios de muestra de una población del noreste de Tailandia. Se aplicaron sistémicamente funciones discriminantes univariadas y multivariadas de todos los parámetros. También se determinaron ecuaciones para calcular la clasificación por sexo. El análisis descriptivo de los datos mostró un dimorfismo sexual significativo en todas las variables (p < 0,05). La correlación canónica fue mayor en CMR (0,772) y la relación peso-longitud (0,747). El análisis de función discriminante multivariante mostró que los índices del radio derecho eran ligeramente mayores que los del radio izquierdo. Los parámetros que demostraron los valores más altos de los coeficientes de la función discriminante canónica estandarizada fueron CMR (Rt. = 0,496, Lt. 0,431) y PR (Rt. = 0,681, Lt. = 0,715). Además, los resultados del método multivariable (método paso a paso) indicaron que las mejores tasas de precisión al usar combinaciones de CMR y PR fueron del 94 % (lado derecho) y del 92 % (lado izquierdo). En conclusión, el peso del radio (más que la longitud) es un parámetro eficaz para determinar el sexo.

[The quality of the anthropometric data on children under five years of age in information systems in the State of São Paulo, Brazil]. / Qualidade dos dados antropométricos de crianças menores de cinco anos em sistemas de informação no estado de São Paulo, Brasil.

This paper involves the analysis of the quality of anthropometric data on children under five years of age in two information systems in the State of São Paulo. The sample included 2,117,108 children from the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (SISVAN), and 748,551 from the State Milk Project (VIVALEITE). Initially, we evaluated the frequency of missing values and others outside the equipment spectrum and calculated the digit-to-weight preference index. After calculating height-for-age (HAZ), weight-for-age (WAZ), and body mass index-for-age (BAZ), we flagged the biologically implausible values (BIV) and calculated the standard deviation (SD). For each municipality, we calculated the mean and the SD of HAZ, WAZ, and BAZ; and plotted the SD values as a function of the mean. The digit-to-weight preference index was greater among children aged between 24 and 59 months in SISVAN. The frequency of BIV for HAZ (SISVAN 2.56%; VIVALEITE 0.98%) was higher than for WAZ (SISVAN 2.10%; VIVALEITE 0.18%). For HAZ, variations among municipalities were more pronounced in VIVALEITE than in SISVAN. The height variable presents low reliability in both systems. The weight variable reveals satisfactory quality in VIVALEITE and unsatisfactory quality in SISVAN.

O objetivo foi analisar a qualidade dos dados antropométricos de crianças menores de cinco anos em dois sistemas de informação no estado de São Paulo. A amostra compreendeu 2.117.108 crianças do Sistema de Vigilância Alimentar e Nutricional (Sisvan) e 748.551 do Projeto Estadual do Leite (Vivaleite). Inicialmente, avaliamos a frequência de valores faltantes e fora do espectro do equipamento, e calculamos o índice de preferência de dígito para peso. Após calcular os índices de altura para idade (A-I), peso para idade (P-I) e índice de massa corporal para idade (IMC-I), identificamos os valores biologicamente implausíveis (VBI) e calculamos o desvio-padrão (DP). Para cada município, calculamos a média e o DP de A-I, P-I e IMC-I; e plotamos os valores de DP em função da média. A preferência de dígito no peso foi maior em crianças de 24 a 59 meses no Sisvan. A frequência de VBI para A-I (SISVAN 2,56%; Vivaleite 0,98%) foi maior do que para P-I (Sisvan 2,10%; Vivaleite 0,18%). Para o índice A-I as variações entre os municípios foram mais acentuadas no Vivaleite do que no Sisvan. A variável altura apresentou baixa confiabilidade nos dois sistemas. A variável peso apresentou qualidade satisfatória no Vivaleite e insatisfatória no Sisvan.

Data quality in Brazilian population-based cancer registries for gastrointestinal cancers.

BACKGROUND: Population-based cancer registries (PBCRs) are the primary source of information for cancer surveillance and monitoring. Currently, there are 30 active PBCRs in Brazil. The objective of this study was to analyze the data quality of five gastrointestinal cancers (esophagus, stomach, colorectal, liver, and pancreas) according to the criteria of comparability, validity, completeness, and timeliness in Brazilian cancer registries. METHODS: This study included data from Brazilian PBCRs with more than ten years of historical data starting in the year 2000, regardless of the type of defined geographical coverage (state, metropolitan region, or capital), totaling 16 registries. Brazilian PBCRs were evaluated based on four international data quality criteria: comparability, validity (accuracy), completeness, and timeliness. All cancer cases were analyzed, except for nonmelanoma skin cancer cases (C44) and five gastrointestinal tumors (esophageal cancer, stomach cancer, colorectal cancer, liver cancer, and pancreatic cancer) per cancer registry and sex, according to the available period. RESULTS: The 16 Brazilian PBCRs represent 17% of the population (36 million inhabitants in 2021) according to data from 2000 to 2018. There was a variation in the incidence in the historical series ranging from 12 to 19 years. The proportion of morphologically verified (MV%) cases varied from 74.3% (Manaus) to 94.8% (Aracaju), and the proportion of incidentally reported death certificate only (DCO%) cases varied from 3.0% (São Paulo) to 23.9% (Espírito Santo). High-lethality malignant neoplasms, such as liver and pancreas, had DCO percentages greater than 30% in most cancer registries. The sixteen registries have more than a 48-month delay in data release compared to the 2022 calendar year. CONCLUSION: The studied Brazilian cancer registries met international comparability criteria; however, half of the registries showed indices below the expected levels for validity and completeness criteria for high-lethality tumors such as liver and pancreas tumors, in addition to a long delay in data availability and disclosure. Significant efforts are necessary to ensure the operational and stability of the PBCR in Brazil, which continues to be a tool for monitoring cancer incidence and assessing national cancer control policies.

Accuracy, potential, and limitations of probabilistic record linkage in identifying deaths by gender identity and sexual orientation in the state of Rio De Janeiro, Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Globally, the counting of deaths based on gender identity and sexual orientation has been a challenge for health systems. In most cases, non-governmental organizations have dedicated themselves to this work. Despite these efforts in generating information, the scarcity of official data presents significant limitations in policy formulation and actions guided by population needs. Therefore, this manuscript aims to evaluate the accuracy, potential, and limits of probabilistic data relationships to yield information on deaths according to gender identity and sexual orientation in the State of Rio de Janeiro. METHODS: This study evaluated the accuracy of the probabilistic record linkage to obtain information on deaths according to gender and sexual orientation. Data from two information systems were used from June 15, 2015 to December 31, 2020. We constructed nine probabilistic data relationship strategies and identified the performance and cutoff points of the best strategy. RESULTS: The best data blocking strategy was established through logical blocks with the first and last names, birthdate, and mother's name in the pairing strategy. With a population base of 80,178 records, 1556 deaths were retrieved. With an area under the curve of 0.979, this strategy presented 93.26% accuracy, 98.46% sensitivity, and 90.04% specificity for the cutoff point ≥ 17.9 of the data relationship score. The adoption of the cutoff point optimized the manual review phase, identifying 2259 (90.04%) of the 2509 false pairs and identifying 1532 (98.46%) of the 1556 true pairs. CONCLUSION: With the identification of possible strategies for determining probabilistic data relationships, the retrieval of information on mortality according to sexual and gender markers has become feasible. Based on information from the daily routine of health services, the formulation of public policies that consider the LGBTQ + population more closely reflects the reality experienced by these population groups.

Development of a web application to evaluate spirometric curve and clinical variables to support COPD diagnosis in primary care / Desarrollo de una aplicación web para evaluar los datos de la espirometría y las variables clínicas para apoyar el diagnóstico de EPOC en atención primaria

Introduction. Choric obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third mortality cause in the world, and the development of useful diagnostic tools is necessary to improve timely diagnostic rates in primary care settings. Objective. To develop a web application displaying spirometric and clinical information - including respiratory symptoms and risk factors- to facilitate a COPD diagnosis. Materials and methods. In this cross-sectional study, an expert consensus was carried out with three specialists using the Delphi method to choose the relevant variables for COPD diagnosis. We developed a Python-based web application to diagnose COPD, displaying the clinical variables deemed relevant by the experts along the spirometric curve. Results. Twenty-six clinical variables were included in the web application for the diagnosis of COPD. A fourth expert used the web application to classify a cohort of 695 patients who had undergone spirometry in a third-level centre and had answered at least one of five questionnaires for COPD screening. Out of the 695 subjects, 34% had COPD, according to the expert that diagnosed them using the web application. Only 42% of the patients in the COPD group had received a previous COPD diagnosis and 19% of the patients in the no COPD group had been misdiagnosed with the disease. Conclusion. We developed a web application that displays demographic and clinical information, as well as spirometric data, to facilitate the process of diagnosing COPD in primary care settings.

Introducción. La enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC) es la tercera causa de mortalidad en el mundo y es necesario el desarrollo de herramientas diagnósticas útiles para mejorar las tasas de diagnóstico oportuno en los entornos de atención primaria. Objetivo. Desarrollar una aplicación web que muestre la información clínica y de la espirometría -incluyendo síntomas respiratorios y factores de riesgo- para facilitar el diagnóstico de la EPOC. Materiales y métodos. En este estudio transversal se realizó un consenso de expertos con tres especialistas usando el método Delphi para elegir las variables relevantes para el diagnóstico de EPOC. Se desarrolló una aplicación web basada en Python que muestra la información clínica relevante según los expertos, junto con la curva y los datos de la espirometría para el diagnóstico de la EPOC. Resultados. Se incluyeron 26 variables clínicas para el diagnóstico de la EPOC. Un cuarto experto utilizó la aplicación web para clasificar una cohorte de 695 pacientes a los que se les había realizado una espirometría en un centro de tercer nivel y que habían contestado al menos uno de los cinco cuestionarios para la detección de la EPOC. De los 695 sujetos, el 34 % tenían EPOC según el experto que les diagnosticó usando la aplicación web. Sólo el 42 % de los pacientes del grupo con EPOC había recibido un diagnóstico previo de la enfermedad y el 19 % de los pacientes del grupo sin EPOC había sido diagnosticado erróneamente con la enfermedad. Conclusión. Se desarrolló una aplicación web que muestra información demográfica y clínica, así como datos espirométricos, para facilitar el proceso de diagnóstico de la EPOC en entornos de atención primaria.

Avaliação da acurácia do diagnóstico de enfermagem atribuído por estudantes por meio de casos clínicos escrito e telessimulado / Assessment of diagnostic accuracy in nursing assigned by students through written and telesimulated clinical cases

Introdução: esta pesquisa buscou investigar o exercício acurado do raciocínio diagnóstico seguido da tomada de decisão clínica em estudantes de enfermagem por meio da aplicação de duas tecnologias educacionais, caso clínico escrito e telessimulado. Objetivo geral: avaliar a acurácia do diagnóstico de enfermagem atribuído por estudantes na resolução de caso clínico na modalidade escrita e telessimulada. Objetivos específicos: verificar o julgamento do diagnóstico de enfermagem atribuído por estudantes pela ausência e presença do diagnóstico "Desobstrução Ineficaz de Vias Aéreas", em caso clínico na modalidade escrita e telessimulada; comparar o grau de acurácia do diagnóstico de enfermagem atribuído por estudantes na resolução de caso clínico na modalidade escrita e telessimulada pela aplicação da Escala de Acurácia de Diagnóstico de Enfermagem. Método: pesquisa experimental com desenho cruzado. O experimento foi realizado com 52 estudantes de enfermagem. A partir do diagnóstico de enfermagem "Desobstrução Ineficaz de Vias Aéreas", um caso clínico foi elaborado em conformidade com um estudo de validação clínica diagnóstica, que foi vivenciado pelos estudantes em um caso clínico escrito (Grupo 2) e em um caso clínico telessimulado (Grupo 1). Para verificação do grau de acurácia diagnóstica dos estudantes de enfermagem foi utilizada a Escala de Acurácia de Diagnóstico de Enfermagem. Resultados: observou-se que o Grupo 2 apresentou maior porcentagem de acurácia alta (46,15%) em relação ao Grupo 1 (7,69%). Além disso, uma maior porcentagem dos estudantes do Grupo 2 (53,85%) julgaram ter conhecimento prévio do DE "Desobstrução Ineficaz de Vias Aéreas" em comparação aos do Grupo 1 (26,92%); foi identificada uma tendência à correlação positiva entre a categoria de acurácia diagnóstica e o número de sinais e sintomas relevantes para o diagnóstico de enfermagem, indicando que à medida que aumentou o número de sinais e sintomas referidos, aumentou a acurácia diagnóstica, e vice-versa; foi verificada uma dificuldade de alguns estudantes em identificar pistas; apenas um estudante nomeou corretamente o diagnóstico de enfermagem selecionado. Conclusão: o ensino de enfermagem deve levar em consideração a importância da experiência e do desenvolvimento de habilidades para o aprimoramento do raciocínio diagnóstico. A utilização de tecnologias educacionais, por sua vez, pode ser uma ferramenta valiosa para o avanço das estratégias de ensino-aprendizagem nesse campo.

Introduction: this research sought to investigate the accurate exercise of diagnostic reasoning followed by clinical decision-making in nursing students through the application of two educational technologies, written and telesimulated clinical case. Objectives: evaluate the accuracy of the nursing diagnosis given by students in resolving a clinical case in written and telesimulated modes; verify the judgment of the nursing diagnosis attributed by students due to the absence and presence of the diagnosis "Ineffective Airway Clearance", in a clinical case in written and telesimulated mode; compare the degree of accuracy of the nursing diagnosis attributed by students in resolving a clinical case in written and telesimulated modes by applying the Nursing Diagnosis Accuracy Scale. Method: experimental research with crossover design. The experiment was carried out with 52 nursing students. Based on the nursing diagnosis "Ineffective Airway Clearance", a clinical case was prepared in accordance with a clinical diagnostic validation study, which was experienced by the students in a written clinical case (Group 2) and in a telesimulated clinical case (Group 1). To check the degree of diagnostic accuracy of nursing students, the Nursing Diagnostic Accuracy Scale was used. Results: it was observed that Group 2 had a higher percentage of high accuracy (46.15%) compared to Group 1 (7.69%). Furthermore, a higher percentage of students in Group 2 (53.85%) believed they had prior knowledge of the ND "Ineffective Airway Clearance" compared to those in Group 1 (26.92%); a tendency towards a positive correlation was identified between the category of diagnostic accuracy and the number of signs and symptoms relevant to the nursing diagnosis, indicating that as the number of signs and symptoms reported increased, diagnostic accuracy increased, and vice versa; some students found it difficult to identify clues; only one student correctly named the selected nursing diagnosis. Conclusion: nursing education must take into account the importance of experience and skill development for improving diagnostic reasoning. The use of educational technologies, in turn, can be a valuable tool for advancing teaching-learning strategies in this field.

A new R package to parse plant species occurrence records into unique collection events efficiently reduces data redundancy.

Biodiversity data aggregators, such as Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) suffer from inflation of the number of occurrence records when data from different databases are merged but not fully reconciled. The ParseGBIF workflow is designed to parse duplicate GBIF species occurrence records into unique collection events (gatherings) and to optimise the quality of the spatial data associated with them. ParseGBIF provides tools to verify and standardize species scientific names according to the World Checklist of Vascular Plants taxonomic backbone, and to parse duplicate records into unique 'collection events', in the process compiling the most informative spatial data, where more than one duplicate is available, and providing crude estimates of taxonomic and spatial data quality. When GBIF occurrence records for a medium-sized vascular plant family, the Myrtaceae, were processed by ParseGBIF, the average number of records useful for spatial analysis increased by 180%. ParseGBIF could therefore be valuable in the evaluation of species' occurrences at the national scale in support for national biodiversity plans, identification of plant areas important for biodiversity, sample bias estimation to inform future sampling efforts, and to forecast species range shifts in response to global climate change.

Data quality review of the Brazilian nosocomial infections surveillance system.

BACKGROUND: Surveillance of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) is an essential component of hospital infection prevention and control systems. We aimed to assess the quality of the data compiled by the Brazilian HAI Surveillance System from pediatric (PICUs) and neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), between 2012 and 2021. METHODS: Data Quality Review, including adherence, completeness, internal consistency, consistency over time, and consistency of population trend, were computed at both national and state levels based on quality metrics from World Health Organization Toolkit. Incidence rates (or incidence density) of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) and central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) were obtained from the Brazilian National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance (NNIS) system. Data on sepsis-related mortality, spanning the period from 2012 to 2021, were extracted from the Brazilian National Health Service database (DATASUS). Additionally, correlations between sepsis-related mortality and incidence rates of VAP or CLABSI were calculated. RESULTS: Throughout the majority of the study period, adherence to VAP reporting remained below 75%, exhibiting a positive trend post-2016. Widespread outliers, as well as inconsistencies over time and in population trends, were evident across all 27 states. Only four states maintained consistent adherence levels above 75% for more than 8 years regarding HAI incidence rates. Notably, CLABSI in NICUs boasted the highest reporting adherence among all HAIs, with 148 periods out of 270 (54.8%) exhibiting reporting adherence surpassing 75%. Three states achieved commendable metrics for CLABSI in PICUs, while five states demonstrated favorable results for CLABSI in NICUs. CONCLUSIONS: While adherence to HAI report is improving among Brazilian states, an important room for improvement in the Brazilian NNIS exists. Additional efforts should be made by the Brazilian government to improve the reliability of HAI data, which could serve as valuable guidance for hospital infection prevention and control policies.

Influence of the addition of nanohydroxyapatite to scaffolds on proliferation and differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells: a systematic review of in vitro studies.

One of the main challenges of tissue engineering in dentistry is to replace bone and dental tissues with strategies or techniques that simulate physiological tissue repair conditions. This systematic review of in vitro studies aimed to evaluate the influence of the addition of nanohydroxyapatite (NHap) to scaffolds on cell proliferation and osteogenic and odontogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells. In vitro studies on human stem cells that proliferated and differentiated into odontogenic and osteogenic cells in scaffolds containing NHap were included in this study. Searches in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, OpenGrey, ProQuest, and Cochrane Library electronic databases were performed. The total of 333 articles was found across all databases. After reading and analyzing titles and abstracts, 8 articles were selected for full reading and extraction of qualitative data. Results showed that despite the large variability in scaffold composition, NHap-containing scaffolds promoted high rates of cell proliferation, increased alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity during short culture periods, and induced differentiation, as evidenced by the high expression of genes involved in osteogenesis and odontogenesis. However, further studies with greater standardization regarding NHap concentration, type of scaffolds, and evaluation period are needed to observe possible interference of these criteria in the action of NHap on the proliferation and differentiation of human stem cells.

Frequency of anthropometric implausible values estimated from different methodologies: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

CONTEXT: Poor anthropometric data quality affect the prevalence of malnutrition and could harm public policy planning. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review and meta-analysis was designed to identify different methods to evaluate and clean anthropometric data, and to calculate the frequency of implausible values for weight and height obtained from these methodologies. DATA SOURCES: Studies about anthropometric data quality and/or anthropometric data cleaning were searched for in the MEDLINE, LILACS, SciELO, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases in October 2020 and updated in January 2023. In addition, references of included studies were searched for the identification of potentially eligible studies. DATA EXTRACTION: Paired researchers selected studies, extracted data, and critically appraised the selected publications. DATA ANALYSIS: Meta-analysis of the frequency of implausible values and 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated. Heterogeneity (I2) and publication bias were examined by meta-regression and funnel plot, respectively. RESULTS: In the qualitative synthesis, 123 reports from 104 studies were included, and in the quantitative synthesis, 23 studies of weight and 14 studies of height were included. The study reports were published between 1980 and 2022. The frequency of implausible values for weight was 0.55% (95%CI, 0.29-0.91) and for height was 1.20% (95%CI, 0.44-2.33). Heterogeneity was not affected by the methodological quality score of the studies and publication bias was discarded. CONCLUSIONS: Height had twice the frequency of implausible values compared with weight. Using a set of indicators of quality to evaluate anthropometric data is better than using indicators singly. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020208977.

Image quality assessment of retinal fundus photographs for diabetic retinopathy in the machine learning era: a review.

This study aimed to evaluate the image quality assessment (IQA) and quality criteria employed in publicly available datasets for diabetic retinopathy (DR). A literature search strategy was used to identify relevant datasets, and 20 datasets were included in the analysis. Out of these, 12 datasets mentioned performing IQA, but only eight specified the quality criteria used. The reported quality criteria varied widely across datasets, and accessing the information was often challenging. The findings highlight the importance of IQA for AI model development while emphasizing the need for clear and accessible reporting of IQA information. The study suggests that automated quality assessments can be a valid alternative to manual labeling and emphasizes the importance of establishing quality standards based on population characteristics, clinical use, and research purposes. In conclusion, image quality assessment is important for AI model development; however, strict data quality standards must not limit data sharing. Given the importance of IQA for developing, validating, and implementing deep learning (DL) algorithms, it's recommended that this information be reported in a clear, specific, and accessible way whenever possible. Automated quality assessments are a valid alternative to the traditional manual labeling process, and quality standards should be determined according to population characteristics, clinical use, and research purpose.

Comparison between the ion-specific electrode and SPADNS methods for analysis of fluoride concentration in the water supply

The maintenance of adequate fluoride (F) concentration in the public water supply is fundamental for ensuring that the community use of F can reach the maximum benefit for caries control and minimum risk for dental fluorosis. Thus, surveillance systems must use accurate and valid analytical methods to determine F concentration and, according to the literature, give preference to the ion-specific electrode (F- ISE) analysis. Aim: The objective of this study was to compare the accuracy of the ISE and SPADNS methods in the determination of the F concentration in the same water sample. Methods: Duplicate water samples were taken from 30 sampling sites in the municipality of Maringá, state of Paraná, monthly for 12 months, totaling 276 samples. An aliquot was analyzed by the FOP-UNICAMP Oral Biochemistry laboratory, using the F- ISE method, and the other one, by the SANEPAR laboratory in Maringá/PR, using the SPADNS method. Descriptive analysis and Pearson's correlation test were applied, with a significant level of p<0.05. Results: Results were expressed as ppm F (mg F/L), and a very strong positive correlation (r= 0.91; p<0.001) was detected between the two methods of analysis. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the determination of f luoride concentration in water can be made with accuracy by the SPADNS method, a standardized analysis protocol

Is the Bland-Altman plot method useful without inferences for accuracy, precision, and agreement?

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE This study aims to propose a comprehensive alternative to the Bland-Altman plot method, addressing its limitations and providing a statistical framework for evaluating the equivalences of measurement techniques. This involves introducing an innovative three-step approach for assessing accuracy, precision, and agreement between techniques, which enhances objectivity in equivalence assessment. Additionally, the development of an R package that is easy to use enables researchers to efficiently analyze and interpret technique equivalences. METHODS Inferential statistics support for equivalence between measurement techniques was proposed in three nested tests. These were based on structural regressions with the goal to assess the equivalence of structural means (accuracy), the equivalence of structural variances (precision), and concordance with the structural bisector line (agreement in measurements obtained from the same subject), using analytical methods and robust approach by bootstrapping. To promote better understanding, graphical outputs following Bland and Altman's principles were also implemented. RESULTS The performance of this method was shown and confronted by five data sets from previously published articles that used Bland and Altman's method. One case demonstrated strict equivalence, three cases showed partial equivalence, and one showed poor equivalence. The developed R package containing open codes and data are available for free and with installation instructions at Harvard Dataverse at https://doi.org/10.7910/DVN/AGJPZH. CONCLUSION Although easy to communicate, the widely cited and applied Bland and Altman plot method is often misinterpreted, since it lacks suitable inferential statistical support. Common alternatives, such as Pearson's correlation or ordinal least-square linear regression, also fail to locate the weakness of each measurement technique. It may be possible to test whether two techniques have full equivalence by preserving graphical communication, in accordance with Bland and Altman's principles, but also adding robust and suitable inferential statistics. Decomposing equivalence into three features (accuracy, precision, and agreement) helps to locate the sources of the problem when fixing a new technique.

Usefulness, Reliability, Quality, and Content of Portuguese Language YouTube Videos on COVID-19

Abstract Objective: To investigate the usefulness, reliability, quality, and content of Portuguese-language YouTube videos on COVID-19. Material and Methods: Three keywords selected on Google Trends were searched on YouTube, and the 60 first videos listed with each term were analyzed. Two calibrated researchers evaluated the reliability (DISCERN Modified Scale), the quality (Global Quality Score - GQS), and the usefulness of videos for the users (COVID-19 Specific Score - CSS). The number of views, likes, and engagement were also analyzed. The data were evaluated by the Mann-Whitney test and Spearman correlation (α=5%). Results: 59 videos were included. The average scores of quality, reliability, and usefulness were 3.0 (±1.1), 3.2 (± 0.8), and 1.5 (± 0.9), respectively. Two-thirds of the videos (64.4%) had low/moderate quality, and the majority (76.2%) were about signs and symptoms. The numbers of views (p=0.005), likes (p=0.006), and engagement (p=0.014) were significantly higher in moderate/good quality videos. The number of comments (p=0.007), duration of videos (p=0.004), and the DISCERN score (p<0.001) were significantly higher in videos made by health professionals. The general quality of the videos was positively correlated to the CSS scores, number of views, likes, and engagement (p<0.05). Conclusion: Most videos had moderate quality and reliability and low usefulness for the users.

Guía metodológica para la estimación y la proyección de muy corto plazo del gasto en salud con base en las clasificaciones del SHA2011: Informe final

La oportunidad es un principio básico de la calidad de los datos de gasto que permite acceder a la información cuando se necesita. Elaborar un presupuesto anual y detectar necesidades de ajuste de una política en marcha o una desviación del gasto respecto de su uso esperado son ejemplos de los beneficios de utilizar los resultados de una cuenta de salud actual y oportuna. Implica, también, realizar cuentas de salud todos los años y presentar los resultados en un plazo breve. Si bien es cierto que la exactitud es también una condición de la calidad que puede hacer necesario esperar por resultados auditados o una búsqueda más exhaustiva de datos, cuando no se requiere de estadísticas históricas, la oportunidad cobra relevancia. En la actualidad se utilizan datos contemporáneos aun cuando estos se enriquezcan del análisis del pasado y de las tendencias. Este documento apoya la estimación temprana de gasto en las cuentas de salud para asegurar su oportunidad. En caso necesario, se puede compensar el rezago en informes que se utilizan para la generación de las cuentas con proyecciones de corto plazo. ¿Cuáles son las opciones contables para ello? ¿Cuáles procedimientos se recomiendan como usuales para asegurar que los resultados del estándar sean oportunos? Se espera que las cifras reales reemplacen a las proyecciones de corto plazo tan pronto como las fuentes de información estén accesibles; sin embargo, los resultados de las proyecciones ejemplificadas en este documento permiten asegurar que los valores “esperados” pueden contribuir a la toma de decisiones informada.