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Introduction: Globally, up to 76.6% of the population may be affected by vitamin D (VD) deficiency, which has been linked to increased morbidity and mortality from COVID-19. This underscores the importance of further research into VD supplementation, particularly for health care workers, who are at higher risk due to indoor work environments and dietary challenges associated with shift schedules. Objective: This study aimed to identify factors associated with VD deficiency in Mexican health care workers exposed to SARS-CoV-2. Materials and methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study from June 2020 to January 2021 among frontline health care workers treating hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Blood samples were collected to measure 25-hydroxy VD levels via radioimmunoassay. We also assessed previous COVID-19 infection and comorbidities that could influence VD levels. Results: The study included 468 health care workers. The median serum VD concentration was 16.6 ng/mL. VD deficiency was found in 69.4% (n = 325) of participants, while only 5.1% (n = 24) had normal levels. Those with type 2 diabetes (13.3 ng/mL vs. 17.1 ng/mL) or obesity (15.7 ng/mL vs. 17.1 ng/mL) had significantly lower VD levels than their counterparts (p < 0.001 and p = 0.049, respectively). No significant differences were found among participants with high blood pressure. Multivariate analysis revealed that type 2 diabetes was independently associated with VD deficiency. Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of VD deficiency among health care workers, which is potentially linked to both personal health factors and occupational conditions.

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A análise do perfil de saúde dos profissionais de saúde é necessária em ambientes hospitalares devido ao nível de insalubridade apresentado nesses locais. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi investigar o perfil de saúde, nível de atividade física e exposição a telas de trabalhadores de um hospital no Sul do Brasil. Este estudo tem caráter transversal e descritivo, e a amostra utilizada foi composta por trabalhadores adultos de um hospital universitário do Sul do Brasil. Os resultados indicaram que a maioria eram mulheres, brancas, de 35-44 anos, com especialização, renda de três a seis salários mínimos, percepção de bem-estar "boa" a "regular", índice de massa corporal "eutrófico" a "sobrepeso", sem doenças crônicas, não fumantes, com sono irregular, ansiedade em níveis normais, saúde percebida como "boa", sedentários, com mais de seis horas de tempo sentado em dias de trabalho. Foram encontradas associações entre ansiedade e várias variáveis. Embora com aspectos positivos, destaca-se que os trabalhadores apresentaram fatores de riscos à saúde, como sedentarismo, tempo prolongado sentado e dor corporal leve e sono irregular. Intervenções em saúde como diminuição de sedentarismo promovendo a prática de atividade física, redução de tempo sentado e orientações para manejo do sono e alívio de dores são necessárias nesse ambiente.

Analyzing the health profile of healthcare professionals is necessary in hospital environments due to their level of unhealthy conditions. Thus, this study investigated the health profile, level of physical activity, and screen exposure of workers at a hospital in southern Brazil. A cross-sectional descriptive was conducted with adult workers from a university hospital in southern Brazil. Results indicated that most participants were white women aged 35 to 44 years with specialization, an income of three to six minimum wages, well-being perceived as "good" to "regular", "eutrophic" to "overweight" body mass index, without chronic diseases, non-smokers, with irregular sleep, anxiety at normal levels, health perceived as "good," sedentary, sitting for more than six hours on work days. Associations were found between anxiety and several variables. Despite positive aspects, workers presented health risk factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, prolonged sitting, mild body pain, and irregular sleep. Health interventions to reduce sedentary lifestyles by promoting physical activity, to reduce sitting time, and to guide sleep management and pain relief are necessary in this setting.

El análisis del perfil de salud de los profesionales de la salud es importante en el ámbito hospitalario debido al nivel de condiciones de insalubridad en estos lugares. Así, el objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar el perfil de salud, el nivel de actividad física y la exposición a pantallas por parte de los trabajadores de un hospital del Sur de Brasil. Este es un estudio transversal y descriptivo, y la muestra estuvo compuesta por trabajadores adultos de un hospital universitario del Sur de Brasil. Los resultados indicaron que la mayoría eran mujeres, blancas, de entre 35 y 44 años, con especialización, ingresos de tres a seis salarios mínimos, percepción de bienestar "bueno" a "regular", índice de masa corporal "eutrófico", "sobrepeso", sin enfermedades crónicas, no fumadores, con sueño irregular, ansiedad en niveles normales, salud percibida como "buena", sedentarios, con más de seis horas sentados en días laborales. Se encontraron asociaciones entre la ansiedad y varias variables. Aunque existen aspectos positivos, se destaca que los trabajadores presentaron factores de riesgo para la salud, como sedentarismo, estar sentado durante mucho tiempo, dolores corporales leves y sueño irregular. En este entorno son necesarias intervenciones sanitarias, como la reducción del estilo de vida sedentario mediante la promoción de la actividad física, la reducción del tiempo sentado y la orientación sobre el manejo del sueño y el alivio del dolor.

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The stingless bee Frieseomelitta varia Lepeletier 1836 (Hymenoptera: Apidae) is an essential pollinator in natural and agricultural ecosystems in the Neotropical region. However, these bees may be exposed to pesticides during foraging, which can affect both individuals and their colonies. One example comes from the use of pyraclostrobin (a fungicide) and thiamethoxam (an insecticide) for pest control in pepper crops, which F. varia visits. This study aimed to evaluate the isolated and combined sublethal effects of thiamethoxam (TMX) (0.000543 ng a.i./µL) and pyraclostrobin (PYR) (1.5 ng i.a./µL) on the morphology of the midgut and Malpighian tubules of F. varia workers. Results showed that both pesticides, regardless of the exposure time (through feeding during 48 h or 96 h), disturbed the morphology of the analyzed organs. Specifically, F. varia exposed orally to sublethal concentrations of thiamethoxam and pyraclostrobin, either alone or in combination, exhibited a higher rate of damage to the midgut (e.g., vacuolization, apocrine secretion, and cellular elimination) compared to the bees in the control groups, both after 48 h and 96 h of exposure. In Malpighian tubules, vacuolation is the only damage present. As the observed morphological alterations likely compromise the excretion and absorption functions, exposure to pyraclostrobin and thiamethoxam may lead to disturbances at both the individual and colony levels. These results highlight the urgent need for a future reassessment of the safety of fungicides and insecticides regarding their potential effects on bee populations.

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INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic literature review to find the association between pesticide exposure and the incidence of suicide in agricultural workers, focusing on analyzing the profile of agricultural workers, the countries with the highest number of publications and, especially, the link between occupational exposure to pesticides, the degradation of mental health and suicide among agricultural workers. METHODS: A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA protocol using Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases, where 33 articles were screened to compose the final portfolio. RESULTS: There is a strong link between pesticide exposure and suicide in agricultural workers. Smoking, alcohol consumption, exposure time, and marital status influence the decision to die by suicide. Brazil and the US lead the ranking in publications, demonstrating that it is not a problem only for developing countries. Organophosphates are the main pesticides used, and they degrade an enzyme crucial for the nervous system, which can result in mental disorders and consequent suicide in agricultural workers. CONCLUSION: There is a need for stricter norms for the commercialization and use of pesticides. There is also a need for providing training to agricultural workers on the application and storage of pesticides, and to communicate about the compounds and the consequences of pesticides to mental health.

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Over the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of enduring mental health on healthcare workers has become increasingly evident. This review focuses on post-pandemic mental health challenges faced by healthcare personnel in Latin America. This highlights the persistent burden on healthcare workers, especially women, which is exacerbated by economic disparities, inadequacies in the healthcare system, and ongoing occupational stressors. Our literature review, utilizing databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, scrutinized the mental health status of healthcare professionals in the region after the pandemic's peak. The analysis indicated sustained levels of psychological distress, with frontline workers and women continuing to be affected disproportionately. These findings emphasize the urgent need for personalized interventions to effectively address the complex mental health challenges in this context. This review advocates strategic interventions, including tailored psychological support, innovative diagnostics, and technological solutions, integrated into patient-centered care models. Such approaches aim to enhance the mental resilience and overall well-being of healthcare professionals across Latin America in the post-COVID era.

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Context: French Guiana is a French overseas department where very different linguistic, cultural and societal populations live together in a small area. Health issues and their specific epidemiological profiles call for research projects crossing several cultures. In this context, health mediators have a role to play in research. The aim of this study was to describe the perceptions, attitudes and opinions on research of mediators and researchers collaborating on research projects, and to describe the strengths and difficulties encountered during this cooperation. Methods: The Inter-med project was conducted in French Guiana between February 2022 and April 2023 on the base of semi-directive interviews with mediators, or researchers, all working in health research in the intercultural context of French Guiana. The socio-demographic characteristics of the participants were described. An inductive thematic analysis was carried out on all the interviews, and word occurrence analysis on certain themes. The information was triangulated with field coordination notebooks from two epidemiological surveys conducted in French Guiana between 2021 and 2022. Results: A total of 26 semi-structured interviews were conducted and 1,328 notebook pages analyzed. Mediation was described as an indispensable interface between the world of research and that of the population targeted by a survey. Mediators have a role to play at different stages of projects, in respect of good clinical practice, ethics and legislation. They act as interfaces between languages, concepts and representations. Their profession remains under-defined and under-dimensioned. The jobs offered are often precarious. Mediation work is emotionally costly, calls on soft skills and requires a combination of rigor and flexibility. All these aspects are implemented in the specific world of research, where there are common concepts and divergent perceptions. Researchers and mediators converge on a common goal: improving health. Conclusion: This study covers several aspects of the development and implementation of research projects. Respect for good clinical practice and people, transparency and data quality are redundant concerns, and this study touches on ethnocentrism, stigmatization and cultural representations. This study points out that the integration and recognition of mediators could be beneficial in research conducted in a cross-cultural context.

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Purpose: To analyze the interfering effect of plasma from COVID-19 convalescent adults vaccinated or not with intradermal Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) on human macrophages. Methods: The BATTLE clinical trial (NCT04369794) was initiated in the 2020 SARS-CoV-2 pandemic to study the safety and efficacy of BCG revaccination of COVID-19 convalescent adults. We measured the expression induction of eleven COVID-19-related genes in human macrophages cultured in plasma taken from 22 BCG vaccinated and 17 placebo patients at baseline and 45 days post-intervention. Subgroup analysis was based on gender, age, job type (healthcare worker [HCW] vs non-HCW), and the presence of anosmia/dysgeusia. Results: Compared to plasma from placebo counterparts, the plasma of BCG vaccinated patients increased the expression induction of interferon (IFN)ß-1b (p = 0.042) in human macrophages. This increase was more pronounced in females and in healthcare workers (HCW) (p = 0.007 and 0.001, respectively). Interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3) expression induction was increased by plasma from BCG vaccinated females, young age group, and HCWs (p = 0.004, 0.011, and 0.040, respectively). Interleukin (IL)-10 induction increased by the plasma of young BCG recipients (p = 0.008). Induction of IL-6 expression increased by non-HCW BCG recipients plasma but decreased by HCW BCG recipients plasma (p = 0.005). Baseline plasma of patients who presented with anosmia/dysgeusia at the time of admission induced lower angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) compared to those without the symptom (0.76 vs 0.97, p = 0.004). ACE2 expression induction significantly increased by plasma of BCG recipients if they had anosmia/dysgeusia on admission (p = 0.028). Conclusion: The expressions of IFNß-1b, IFITM3, IL-6, and IL-10 in human macrophages incubated with the plasma of COVID-19 convalescent patients were modulated by BCG. These modulations depended on subject-specific characteristics, including gender, age, clinical presentation (anosmia/dysgeusia), job type, and previous exposure to mycobacteria.

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RESUMO Objetivou-se investigar as condições de trabalho e a saúde física e mental de profissionais de saúde atuantes na linha de frente da covid-19 em serviços de urgência, emergência e terapia intensiva no Brasil, no segundo ano da pandemia. Estudo transversal, com uso de questionário eletrônico, por meio do qual coletaram-se dados sobre condições de trabalho, saúde física e mental, além do instrumento Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). A amostra (n=209) incluiu enfermeiros (28,7%), técnicos de enfermagem (30,1%), fisioterapeutas (33%) e médicos (8,2%). Os profissionais possuíam idade média de 34,6 anos e relataram uma carga horária média de 53,5 horas/semana. Verificou-se aumento das horas trabalhadas (62%) e da quantidade de pacientes (84%). A maioria relatou bom relacionamento com o chefe (89%) e satisfação com o trabalho (87%). A prevalência de sintomas de estresse, ansiedade e depressão foi superior a 45%, com predomínio de sintomas graves ou extremamente graves. A prevalência de dor musculoesquelética e fadiga foi de 84,7% e 83,3%, respectivamente. Os profissionais de saúde apresentaram aumento de volume de trabalho e de exigência durante a pandemia de covid-19. Observou-se, ainda, intenso prejuízo à saúde física e mental desses trabalhadores.

ABSTRACT The objective was to investigate the working conditions and physical and mental health of health professionals working on the front lines of COVID-19 in urgent, emergency, and intensive care services in Brazil, in the second year of the pandemic. Cross-sectional study, using an electronic questionnaire, through which data on working conditions, and physical and mental health were collected, in addition to the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) instrument. The sample (n=209) included nurses (28.7%), nursing technicians (30.1%), physiotherapists (33%), and physicians (8.2%). The professionals had an average age of 34.6 years and reported an average workload of 53.5 hours/week. There was an increase in hours worked (62%) and in the number of patients (84%). Most reported a good relationship with their boss (89%) and job satisfaction (87%). The prevalence of symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression was greater than 45%, with a predominance of severe or extremely severe symptoms. The prevalence of musculoskeletal pain and fatigue was 84.7% and 83.3%, respectively. Health professionals showed an increase in workload and demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. There was also intense damage to the physical and mental health of these workers.

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Objetivo: Analisar a qualidade de vida no trabalho dos enfermeiros assistenciais da Atenção Primária à Saúde de um município baiano. Métodos: Pesquisa observacional, descritiva, transversal e de abordagem quantitativa. Aplicou-se o questionário Total Quality of Work Life (Qualidade de Vida no Trabalho Total), por meio de ligação telefônica. Os dados foram transcritos para o software Microsoft Excel® e analisados por estatística descritiva. Resultados: Os 34 enfermeiros que aceitaram participar compuseram amostra de maioria feminina (97,1%), com idade maior ou igual a 40 anos (67,5%) e estado conjugal casado(a)/união estável (58,8%). Quanto à escolaridade, prevaleceu o nível de pós-graduação lato sensu (85,3%), com maior parcela atuando no município há mais de 4 anos (67,7%), por meio de vínculo efetivo (70,6%). No tocante à avaliação da qualidade de vida no trabalho, a esfera que obteve pior avaliação foi a "Econômica política" e a melhor avaliada foi a "Psicológica e comportamental". Além disso, a avaliação geral apontou classificação "insatisfatória". Conclusão: A melhoria da qualidade de vida no trabalho dos enfermeiros pode trazer repercussões que vão além da satisfação do profissional, pois fatores motivacionais, de satisfação, físicos e psicológicos influenciam diretamente sua produtividade no trabalho e a qualidade do serviço prestado. (AU)

Objective: To analyze the quality of life at work of nurses working in Primary Health Care in a city in Bahia. Methods: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional research and with a quantitative approach. The Total Quality of Work Life questionnaire was applied through telephone call. The search results were transferred to the Microsoft Excel® software and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: 34 nurses who agreed to participate comprised a sample of mostly female (97,1%), aged 40 years or older (67,5%) and marital status married or stable union (58,8%). About education, the majority had a lato sensu postgraduate degree (85,3%), with a greater portion working in the city for more than 4 years (67,7%), having an effective contract (70,6%). Regarding the evaluation of quality of life at work, the sphere that obtained the worst assessment was "Economic policy" and the best assessed the "Psychological and behavioral" sphere. Furthermore, the general evaluation pointed to an "unsatisfactory" rating. Conclusion: It is believed that the improvement in the quality of life at work of the nurses can bring repercussions that go beyond professional satisfaction, due to motivation, satisfaction, physical and psychological factors directly influence their productivity at work and the quality of the service provided. (AU)

Objetivo: Analizar la calidad de vida en el trabajo de enfermeros que actúan en la Atención Primaria de Salud de un municipio de Bahía. Métodos: Esta es una investigación observacional, descriptiva, transversal y con enfoque cuantitativo. Durante la encuesta se aplicó el cuestionario Total Quality of Work Life a través de una llamada telefónica. Los datos se transcribieron al software Microsoft Excel® y se analizaron mediante estadística descriptiva. Resultados: Las 34 enfermeras que aceptaron participar eran, en su mayoría, del sexo femenino (97,1%), con edad igual o superior a 40 años (67,5%) y casado o en unión estable (58,8%). Acerca de la educación, predominó el nivel de posgrado lato sensu (85,3%), con una mayor parte de los encuestados trabajando en el municipio por más de 4 años (67,7%), a través de un contrato efectivo (70,6%). Sobre la evaluación la valoración de la calidad de vida en el trabajo, el ámbito que obtuvo la peor valoración fue "Política Económica" y el mejor valorado fue "Psicológico y conductual". Además, la evaluación general apuntó a una calificación "insatisfactoria". Conclusión: Se cree que la mejora en la calidad de vida en el trabajo de estos enfermeros puede traer repercusiones que van más allá de la satisfacción profesional, ya que factores motivacionales, de satisfacción, físicos y psicológicos influyen directamente en su productividad en el trabajo y en localidad del servicio prestado. (AU)

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Objetivo: Analisar o perfil dos profissionais da saúde de nível técnico e superior contaminados pela covid-19 no Brasil. Métodos: Estudo transversal, quantitativo, desenvolvido por meio dos dados da Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílios (PNAD) COVID 2020, com 2.794 trabalhadores da saúde de nível técnico e superior. Foram consideradas as variáveis disponíveis no banco de dados da PNAD COVID, referentes aos meses de julho, agosto, setembro, outubro e novembro de 2020. Os dados da PNAD COVID foram transportados para um banco de dados criado no MS-Excel e analisados com estatísticas descritivas. Resultados: Os profissionais de nível técnico foram os que mais se contaminaram com a covid-19, principalmente nos estados de São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro e Maranhão; com as seguintes características: sexo feminino; da etnia parda; com domicílio já quitado, sendo este responsável pelo domicílio; não constituindo outro emprego; média de idade 40 anos; o principal sintoma evidenciado foi a dor de cabeça; e, mais de 80% não relataram apresentar comorbidades. Conclusão: O cenário atual pandêmico, para os profissionais da saúde, deixa em evidência os danos atuais e futuros, que podem afetar a saúde mental desses trabalhadores, tornando-se elucidado a necessidade de maiores estudos e olhares para esses trabalhadores. (AU)

Objective: To analyze the profile of technical and higher-level health professionals contaminated by covid-19 in Brazil. Methods: Cross-sectional, quantitative study, developed using data from the National Household Sample Survey (PNAD) COVID 2020, with 2,794 technical and higher-level health workers. The variables available in the PNAD COVID database for the months of July, August, September, October and November 2020 were considered. The PNAD COVID data were transported to a database created in MS-Excel and analyzed with statistics descriptive. Results: Professionals with a technical level were the ones who were most contaminated with covid-19, mainly in the states of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Maranhão; with the following characteristics: female; of the mixed race; with the home already paid off, being responsible for the home; not constituting another job; mean age 40 years; the main symptom evidenced was headache; and more than 80% reported no comorbidities. Conclusion: The current pandemic scenario, for health professionals, highlights the current and future damage, which can affect the mental health of these workers, clarifying the need for further studies and perspectives on these workers. (AU)

Objetivo: Analizar el perfil de técnicos y profesionales de la salud de alto nivel contaminados por covid-19 en Brasil. Métodos: Estudio transversal, cuantitativo, desarrollado a partir de datos de la Encuesta Nacional por Muestra de Hogares (PNAD) COVID 2020, con 2.794 técnicos y trabajadores de la salud de nivel superior. Se consideraron las variables disponibles en la base de datos PNAD COVID para los meses de julio, agosto, septiembre, octubre y noviembre de 2020. Los datos de la PNAD COVID fueron transportados a una base de datos creada en MS-Excel y analizados con estadística descriptiva. Resultados: Los profesionales con nivel técnico fueron los más contaminados con covid-19, principalmente en los estados de São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro y Maranhão; con las siguientes características: femenino; del mestizo; con el hogar ya pagado, siendo responsable del hogar; no constituir otro trabajo; edad media 40 años; el síntoma principal evidenciado fue el dolor de cabeza; y más del 80% no informaron comorbilidades. Conclusión: El escenario pandémico actual, para los profesionales de la salud, resalta los daños actuales y futuros, que pueden afectar la salud mental de estos trabajadores, aclarando la necesidad de mayores estudios y perspectivas sobre estos trabajadores. (AU)

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There is little evidence on optimizing the effectiveness and implementation of evidence-based early childhood development (ECD) interventions when task-shifted to frontline workers. In this Methods Forum paper, we describe our adaptation of the International Guide for Monitoring Child Development (GMCD) for task-shifting to frontline workers in Guatemala and India. In 2021-2022, implementers, trainers, frontline workers, caregivers, and international GMCD experts collaborated to adapt the GMCD for a task shifted implementation by frontline workers. We used an eight-step co-creating process: assembling a multidisciplinary team, training on the existing package, working groups to begin modifications, revision of draft modifications, tailoring of visual materials and language, train-the-trainers activities, pilot frontline worker trainings, final review and feedback. Preliminary effectiveness of adaptations was evaluated through narrative notes and group-based qualitative feedback following pilot trainings with 16 frontline workers in India and 6 in Guatemala. Final adaptations included: refining training techniques to match skill levels and learning styles of frontline workers; tailoring all visual materials to local languages and contexts; design of job aids for providing developmental support messages; modification of referral and triage processes for children in need of enhanced support and speciality referral; and creation of post-training support procedures. Feedback from pilot trainings included: (1) group consensus that training improved ECD skills and knowledge across multiple domains; and (2) feedback on ongoing needed adjustments to pacing, use of video-based vs. role-playing materials, and time allocated to small group work. We use the Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications to Evidence-based Implementation Strategies (FRAME-IS) framework to document our adaptations. The co-creating approach we use, as well as systematic documentation of adaptation decisions will be of use to other community-based early childhood interventions and implementation strategies.

Main findings: The International Guide for Monitoring Child Development, an early childhood development support and monitoring tool, was successfully adapted for use by frontline workers in rural India and Guatemala.Added knowledge: Our Methods Forum paper uses a detailed framework to document the collaborative, co-creating process used and the adaptive decisions taken.Global health impact for policy and action: Evidence on how best to adapt and optimize early childhood interventions for frontline workers will be useful or scaling up support for children globally.

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Health surveillance guides public policies, allows for the monitoring of occupational exposures that may cause health risks, and can prevent work-related diseases. The scoping review protocol herein is designed to map studies on the surveillance of occupational exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in gas stations and identify the governmental agencies and public health measures in different countries. This review protocol is based on the Joanna Briggs Institute manual and guided by the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews. It includes research articles, theses, dissertations, and official documents on surveillance measures for occupational exposure to VOCs (i.e., benzene, ethylbenzene, toluene, and xylene) in gas stations from different countries. All languages and publication dates will be considered, and a spreadsheet will be used to extract and analyze qualitative and quantitative data. The final version will present the main surveillance measures implemented, responsible entities, results, challenges, limitations, and potential gaps in gas stations.

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BACKGROUND: This study aimed to assess COVID-19 vaccine confidence among healthcare personnel in the safety net sector of the United States and Puerto Rico. This study aimed to examine the extent to which increased knowledge and positive attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccine safety and efficacy were associated with healthcare workers' COVID-19 vaccination status and their recommendation of the vaccine to all patients. METHODS: Online survey data were collected from health care workers working in Free and Charitable Clinics across the United States and Federally Qualified Health Centers in Puerto Rico. The survey consisted of 62 questions covering various demographic measures and constructs related to healthcare workers' vaccination status, beliefs, and recommendations for COVID-19 vaccination. Statistical analyses, including multivariate analysis, were conducted to identify the factors associated with the COVID-19 vaccine status and recommendations among healthcare personnel. RESULTS: Among the 2273 respondents, 93% reported being vaccinated against COVID-19. The analysis revealed that respondents who believed that COVID-19 vaccines were efficacious and safe were three times more likely to be vaccinated and twice as likely to recommend them to all their patients. Respondents who believed they had received adequate information about COVID-19 vaccination were 10 times more likely to be vaccinated and four times more likely to recommend it to all their patients. CONCLUSIONS: The study results indicate that healthcare workers' confidence in COVID-19 vaccines is closely tied to their level of knowledge, positive beliefs, and attitudes about vaccine safety and efficacy. The study emphasizes the significance of healthcare workers feeling well informed and confident in their knowledge to recommend the vaccine to their patients. These findings have important implications for the development of strategies to boost COVID-19 vaccine confidence among healthcare workers and increase vaccine uptake among patients.

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INTRODUCCIÓN: La comprensión del comportamiento de la respuesta humoral en COVID-19 continúa siendo un desafío para la producción de vacunas que proporcionen inmunidad más duradera. OBJETIVO: Describir la respuesta humoral natural inducida por SARS- CoV-2 en personal de salud con base en el perfil epidemiológico y clínico. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal en personal de salud de hospitales públicos de referencia del Departamento de Alto Paraná, Paraguay. Se incluyeron 962 participantes, mediante muestreo no probabilístico de tipo consecutivo, aplicación de cuestionario y toma de muestras sanguíneas. Se buscaron anticuerpos por ensayo inmunocromatográfico para detección de IgM e IgG contra SARS- CoV-2 y por el método ELISA de captura de IgG específicos contra la proteína spike (SARS-CoV-2) y se evaluaron factores asociados a la seropositividad. RESULTADOS: La seroprevalencia global fue 36,5% (IC 95%: 33,4 - 39,5); 59,3% (n: 571) de los encuestados refirió haber tenido síntomas compatibles al COVID-19 entre el inicio de la pandemia y la fecha de toma de muestra, de estos 44% (n: 251) resultó seropositivo; 10,4% (n: 100) manifestó no haber tenido síntomas en el periodo estudiado, pero tuvo un resultado positivo. Los factores asociados a la seropositividad fueron: presencia de síntomas (p 90 días). CONCLUSIONES: Las características clínicas fueron mayormente asociadas con la seropositividad y la seropreva- lencia en los sintomáticos varió de acuerdo con el tiempo transcurrido desde el inicio de los síntomas y la serología.

BACKGROUND: Understanding the behavior of humoral response in COVID-19 continues to be a challenge to produce vaccines that provide long-lasting immunity. AIM: To describe the natural humoral response induced by SARS-CoV-2 among healthcare workers based on epidemiological and clinical profiles. METHODS: Cross-sectional study in healthcare workers from public hospitals in the Department of Alto Paraná, Paraguay, 962 participants were recruited through consecutive sampling, using a questionnaire and blood sampling. Antibodies were determined by immunochromatography assay for detection of IgM and IgG and by SARS-CoV-2 IgG anti-spike capture ELISA method and factors associated with seropositivity were evaluated. RESULTS: The overall seropositivity was 36.5% (95% CI: 33.4 - 39.5); 59.3% (n: 571) of respondents reported symptoms compatible with COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic and the date of blood draw, 44% (n: 251) of them tested positive; 10.4% (n: 100) who reported no history of symptoms tested positive. The factors associated with seropositivity were the presence of symptoms (p 90 days). CONCLUSIONS: Clinical characteristics were mostly associated with seropositivity and sero prevalence in symptomatic participants varied according to the time elapsed from the onset of symptoms to serology.

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BACKGROUND: Thriving from Work is a construct that has been highlighted as an important integrative positive worker well-being indicator that can be used in both research and practice. Recent public discourse emphasizes the important contributions that work should have on workers' lives in positive and meaningful ways and the importance of valid and reliable instruments to measure worker well-being. The Thriving from Work Questionnaire measures how workers' experiences of their work and conditions of work contributes in positive ways to their thriving both at and outside of work. METHODS: The purpose of this study was to translate the Thriving from Work Questionnaire from English to Spanish, and then validate the translated questionnaire in a sample of 8,795 finance workers in Peru and Mexico. We used item response theory models replicating methods that were used for the original validation studies. We conducted a differential item functioning analysis to evaluate any differences in the performance of models between Peru and Mexico. We evaluated criterion validity with organizational leadership, flourishing, vitality, community well-being, and worker's home location socio-economic position. RESULTS: The current study demonstrates that the Spanish (Peru/Mexico) questionnaire was found to be a reliable and valid measure of workers' thriving from work. One item was dropped from the long-form version of the original U.S. questionnaire. Both the long and short form versions of the questionnaire had similar psychometric properties. Empirical reliability was high. Criterion validity was established as hypothesized relationships between constructs was supported. There were no differences in the performance of the model between countries suggesting utility across Latin American countries. CONCLUSIONS: The current study demonstrated that the Spanish (Peru and Mexico) version of the questionnaire is both a reliable and valid measure of worker well-being in Latin America. Specific recommendations are made for the adaptation of the questionnaire and directions of future research.

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Background: As the COVID-19 pandemic persists, infections continue to surge globally. Presently, the most effective strategies to curb the disease and prevent outbreaks involve fostering immunity, promptly identifying positive cases, and ensuring their timely isolation. Notably, there are instances where the SARS-CoV-2 virus remains infectious even after patients have completed their quarantine. Objective: Understanding viral persistence post-quarantine is crucial as it could account for localized infection outbreaks. Therefore, studying and documenting such instances is vital for shaping future public health policies. Design: This study delves into a unique case of SARS-CoV-2 persistence in a 60-year-old female healthcare worker with a medical history of hypertension and hypothyroidism. The research spans 55 days, marking the duration between her initial and subsequent diagnosis during Chile's first COVID-19 wave, with the analysis conducted using RT-qPCR. Results: Genomic sequencing-based phylogenetic analysis revealed that the SARS-CoV-2 detected in both Nasopharyngeal swab samples (NPSs) was consistent with the 20B clade of the Nextstrain classification, even after a 55-day interval. Conclusion: This research underscores the need for heightened vigilance concerning cases of viral persistence. Such instances, albeit rare, might be pivotal in understanding sporadic infection outbreaks that occur post-quarantine.

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Farnesol, a sesquiterpene found in all eukaryotes, precursor of juvenile hormone (JH) in insects, is involved in signalling, communication, and antimicrobial defence. Farnesol is a compound of floral volatiles, suggesting its importance in pollination and foraging behaviour. Farnesol is found in the resin of Baccharis dracunculifolia, from which honeybees elaborate the most worldwide marketable propolis. Bees use propolis to seal cracks in the walls, reinforce the wax combs, and as protection against bacteria and fungi. The introduction within a honeybee hive of a compound with potential hormonal activity can be a challenge to the colony survival, mainly because the transition from within-hive to outside activities of workers is controlled by JH. Here, we tested the hypothesis that exogenous farnesol alters the pacing of developing workers. The first assays showed that low doses of the JH precursor (0.1 and 0.01 µg) accelerate pharate-adult development, with high doses being toxic. The second assay was conducted in adult workers and demonstrated bees that received 0.2 µg farnesol showed more agitated behaviour than the control bees. If farnesol was used by corpora allata (CA) cells as a precursor of JH and this hormone was responsible for the observed behavioural alterations, these glands were expected to be larger after the treatment. Our results on CA measurements after 72 h of treatment showed bees that received farnesol had glands doubled in size compared to the control bees (p < 0.05). Additionally, we expected the expression of JH synthesis, JH degradation, and JH-response genes would be upregulated in the treated bees. Our results showed that indeed, the mean transcript levels of these genes were higher in the treated bees (significant for methyl farnesoate epoxidase and juvenile hormone esterase, p < 0.05). These results suggest farnesol is used in honeybees as a precursor of JH, leading to increasing JH titres, and thus modulating the pacing of workers development. This finding has behavioural and ecological implications, since alterations in the dynamics of the physiological changes associated to aging in young honeybees may significantly impact colony balance in nature.

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INTRODUCTION: To address domestic shortages, high-income countries are increasingly recruiting health workers from low- and middle-income countries. This practice is much debated. Proponents underline benefits of return migration and remittances. Critics point in particular to the risk of brain drain. Empirical evidence supporting either position is yet rare. This study contributes to filling this gap in knowledge by reporting high-level stakeholders' perspectives on health system impacts of international migration in general, and active recruitment of health workers in specific, in Colombia, Indonesia, and Jordan. METHOD: We used a multiple case study methodology, based on qualitative methods integrated with information available in the published literature. RESULTS: All respondents decried a lack of robust and detailed data as a serious challenge in ascertaining their perspectives on impacts of health worker migration. Stakeholders described current emigration levels as not substantially aggravating existing health workforce availability challenges. This is due to the fact that all three countries are faced with health worker unemployment grounded in unwillingness to work in rural areas and/or overproduction of certain cadres. Respondents, however, pleaded against targeting very experienced and specialised individuals. While observing little harm of health worker migration at present, stakeholders also noted few benefits such as brain gain, describing how various barriers to skill enhancement, return, and reintegration into the health system hamper in practice what may be possible in theory. CONCLUSION: Improved availability of data on health worker migration, including their potential return and reintegration into their country of origin's health system, is urgently necessary to understand and continuously monitor costs and benefits in dynamic national and international health labour markets. Our results imply that potential benefits of migration do not come into being automatically, but need in-country supportive policy and programming, such as favourable reintegration policies or programs targeting engagement of the diaspora.

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ABSTRACT Objective: To compare cancer mortality among workers exposed to gamma and X radiation and the general population of the city of São Paulo, as well as that of the subgroup monitored with those not monitored for gamma and X radiation in a work unit with ionizing radiation based in the city of São Paulo. Methods: Between 2016 and 2021, a retrospective open cohort study was carried out with workers who were employed from 08/31/1956 to 12/31/2016 based on data collected at the company and in official institutions. Standardized mortality ratios (SMR) were calculated by sex, age and calendar period of cancers grouped according to type, risk factor and organ system in two analyses: in the external analysis, the mortality of the study population was compared with that of the general population of the city of São Paulo; In the internal analysis, the mortality of the monitored subgroup was compared with that of the subgroup not monitored for gamma and X radiation. Results: The external mortality analysis showed SMR=0.224 (95%CI 0.208-0.240) and the healthy worker effect, while the internal mortality analysis showed SMR=0.685 (95%CI 0.618-0.758). Conclusion: This study showed lower cancer mortality among exposed workers when compared to mortality in the general population and the healthy worker effect. Among workers monitored for gamma and X radiation, cancer mortality was lower when compared to those not monitored.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar a mortalidade por câncer entre trabalhadores expostos à radiação gama e X e a população geral do município de São Paulo, bem como a do subgrupo monitorado com o não monitorado para radiação gama e X em uma unidade de trabalho sediada no município de São Paulo. Métodos: Entre 2016 e 2021 foi realizado estudo de coorte aberta retrospectiva com trabalhadores que tiveram vínculo empregatício desde 31/08/1956 até 31/12/2016 a partir de dados coletados na empresa e em instituições oficiais. Foram calculadas as razões de mortalidade padronizadas (RMP) por sexo, idade e período calendário de cânceres agrupados segundo o tipo, o fator de risco e o sistema orgânico em duas análises: na análise externa, comparou-se a mortalidade da população de estudo com a da população geral do município de São Paulo; já na análise interna, comparou-se a mortalidade do subgrupo monitorado com a do subgrupo não monitorado para radiação gama e X. Resultados: A análise externa de mortalidade mostrou RMP=0,224 (IC95% 0,208-0,240) e o efeito do trabalhador sadio, enquanto a análise interna de mortalidade mostrou RMP = 0,685 (IC95% 0,618-0,758). Conclusão: Este estudo mostrou menor mortalidade por câncer entre os trabalhadores expostos quando comparada com a mortalidade da população geral e o efeito do trabalhador sadio. Entre os trabalhadores monitorados para radiação gama e X, a mortalidade por câncer foi menor quando comparada com a dos não monitorados.

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Este estudo aborda o debate sobre a intensificação dos desgastes na saúde dos trabalhadores de enfermagem no contexto da pandemia de Covid-19, destacando o aumento do volume de trabalho como um fator adicional de precarização das condições laborais. Ancora-se no campo de conhecimentos da Saúde do Trabalhador que se pauta na concepção de que o sofrimento e a doença dependem da forma como os trabalhadores estão inseridos no processo produtivo. O objetivo foi identificar a produção científica relativa aos desgastes enfrentados pelos trabalhadores de enfermagem durante a pandemia da Covid-19 e explorar as possibilidades de enfrentamento desses desgastes. Realizou se revisão integrativa, examinando bases de dados como Cinahl, Embase e Lilacs, utilizando-se os descritores "Saúde do Trabalhador", "Saúde Ocupacional", "Occupational Health", "Salud Laboral", "Pandemia de Covid-19", "Covid-19", "2019 coronavírus" "2019 New Coronavírus" e "Enfermagem", "Equipe de Enfermagem", "Técnicos de Enfermagem", "Auxiliares de Enfermagem", "Enfermeros no Diplomados", "Licensed Practical Nurses", "Assistentes de Enfermagem", "Nursing Assistants", "Asistentes de Enfermería", resultando em 26 estudos para análise. Grande parte dos trabalhos embasou-se no referencial teórico da saúde ocupacional (92%), relacionando os desgastes a riscos e comportamentos individuais, enquanto uma minoria adotou a perspectiva da saúde do trabalhador (8%), vinculando o desgaste à organização dos processos de trabalho. Os resultados indicaram uma tendência à abordagem individualizante dos problemas, negligenciando as causas estruturais do adoecimento. Conclui-se que a literatura científica tem abordado os desgastes da saúde dos trabalhadores de enfermagem no contexto da pandemia com base numa abordagem multifatorial que, apesar dos avanços no entendimento do problema, acaba traduzindo-se em soluções que tendem a ser desconectadas e que responsabilizam o próprio trabalhador pelo adoecimento, desconsiderando a influência de mudanças estruturais no processo de trabalho.

This study addresses the debate on the intensification of strain on the health of nursing workers in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, highlighting the increase in workload as an additional factor in the precarization of working conditions. It is anchored in the field of Occupational Health, which is based on the concept that suffering and illness depend on how workers are integrated into the production process. The objective was to identify the scientific literature related to the strain faced by nursing workers during the Covid-19 pandemic and explore the possibilities for coping with this strain. An integrative review was conducted, examining databases such as Cinahl, Embase, and Lilacs, using the following descriptors: "Saúde do Trabalhador", "Saúde Ocupacional", "Occupational Health", "Salud Laboral", "Pandemia de Covid-19", "Covid-19", "2019 coronavírus" "2019 New Coronavírus" e "Enfermagem", "Equipe de Enfermagem", "Técnicos de Enfermagem", "Auxiliares de Enfermagem", "Enfermeros no Diplomados", "Licensed Practical Nurses", "Assistentes de Enfermagem", "Nursing Assistants", "Asistentes de Enfermería", resulting in the selection of 26 studies for analysis. The majority of the works were based on the theoretical framework of occupational health (92%), relating strain to individual risks and behaviors, while a minority adopted the perspective of worker health (8%), linking strain to the organization of work processes. The results indicated a tendency toward an individualizing approach to the problems, neglecting the structural causes of illness. It is concluded that the scientific literature has approached the strain on the health of nursing workers in the context of the pandemic through a multifactorial approach that, despite advances in understanding the problem, tends to result in solutions that are disconnected and place the responsibility for illness on the worker themselves, disregarding the influence of structural changes in the work process.