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Head impact differences in blind football between Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games: video-based observational study

Por: Tsutsumi · S. · Sasadai · J. · Maeda · N. · Tamura · Y. · Nagao · T. · Watanabe · T. · Arima · S. · Kaneda · K. · Yoshimi · M. · Mizuta · R. · Ishihara · H. · Shimizu · R. · Fukui · K. · Tashiro · T. · Komiya · M. · Suzuki · A. · Urabe · Y.
Objective

In Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, there were the rule and goal size changes at the blind football competition. This study aimed to compare the scoring and head impact characteristics during blind football competition between the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games using the official videos.

Design

Video-based observational study.

Participants

In total, 36 blind football (men’s football 5-a-side) game videos were obtained from the official International Paralympic Committee.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Head impact was defined as the sudden contact of any object with the head. Videos were analysed to assess the number of scores and head impacts along with their corresponding details (ie, round, playing phase, scoring situation, impact situation, occurrence area, impact object, head impact site, fall and foul).

Results

The total number of goals scored at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games was nearly double that at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. Regarding head impacts, a total of 2036 cases (Rio 2016, n=1105; Tokyo 2020, n=931) were evaluated. Significant differences were observed in head impact characteristics between the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games among seven outcomes (round, scoring situation, impact situation, occurrence area, impact object, site of head impact and fall).

Conclusions

Compared with the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games showed an increase in the number of points scored and different head impact characteristics.

Descriptive study of the challenges when implementing an app for patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration to monitor their vision at home

Por: Reeves · B. C. · Wickens · R. · OConnor · S. R. · Gidman · E. A. · Ward · E. · Treanor · C. · Peto · T. · Burton · B. J. L. · Knox · P. C. · Lotery · A. · Sivaprasad · S. · Donnelly · M. · Rogers · C. A. · Hogg · R. E.
Objectives

Remote monitoring of health has the potential to reduce the burden to patients of face-to-face appointments and make healthcare more efficient. Apps are available for patients to self-monitor vision at home, for example, to detect reactivation of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Describing the challenges when implementing apps for self-monitoring of vision at home was an objective of the MONARCH study to evaluate two vision-monitoring apps on an iPod Touch (Multibit and MyVisionTrack).

Design

Diagnostic Test Accuracy study.

Setting

Six UK hospitals.

Methods

The study provides an example of the real-world implementation of such apps across health sectors in an older population. Challenges described include the following: (1) frequency and reason for incoming calls made to a helpline and outgoing calls made to participants; (2) frequency and duration of events responsible for the tests being unavailable; and (3) other technical and logistical challenges.

Results

Patients (n=297) in the study were familiar with technology; 252/296 (85%) had internet at home and 197/296 (67%) had used a smartphone. Nevertheless, 141 (46%) called the study helpline, more often than anticipated. Of 435 reasons for calling, all but 42 (10%) related to testing with the apps or hardware, which contributed to reduced adherence. The team made at least one call to 133 patients (44%) to investigate why data had not been transmitted. Multibit and MyVisionTrack apps were unavailable for 15 and 30 of 1318 testing days for reasons which were the responsibility of the app providers. Researchers also experienced technical challenges with a multiple device management system. Logistical challenges included regulations for transporting lithium-ion batteries and malfunctioning chargers.

Conclusions

Implementation of similar technologies should incorporate a well-resourced helpline and build in additional training time for participants and troubleshooting time for staff. There should also be robust evidence that chosen technologies are fit for the intended purpose.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN79058224.

Institutional capacity assessment in the lens of implementation research: Capacity of the local institutions in delivering WASH services at Cox’s Bazar district, Bangladesh

by Mahbubur Rahman, Mahbub-Ul Alam, Sharmin Khan Luies, Sharika Ferdous, Zahidul Mamun, Musarrat Jabeen Rahman, Debashish Biswas, Tazrina Ananya, Asadullah, Abul Kamal, Ritthick Chowdhury, Eheteshamul Russel Khan, Dara Johnston, Martin Worth, Umme Farwa Daisy, Tanvir Ahmed

Background

The influx of Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals (FDMNs) has left the Southwest coastal district of Cox’s Bazar with one of the greatest contemporary humanitarian crises, stressing the existing water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) resources and services. This study aimed to assess the existing capacity of local institutions involved in delivering WASH services and identify relevant recommendations for intervention strategies.

Methods

We used a qualitative approach, including interviews and capacity assessment workshops with institutions engaged in WASH service delivery. We conducted five key informant interviews (KII) with sub-district level officials of the Department of Public Health Engineering (DPHE), Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Directorate of Primary Education (DPE) and Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC) to have a general idea of WASH service mechanisms. Seven capacity assessment workshops were organized with the relevant district and sub-district level stakeholders from August 2019 to September 2019. These workshops followed three key areas: i) knowledge of policy, organizational strategy, guidelines, and framework; ii) institutional arrangements for service delivery such as planning, implementation, coordination, monitoring, and reporting; and iii) availability and management of human, financial and infrastructural resources. Data were categorized using thematic content analysis.

Results

The majority of stakeholders lacked awareness of national WASH policies. Furthermore, the top-down planning approaches resulted in activities that were not context-specific, and lack of coordination between multiple institutions compromised the optimal WASH service delivery at the local level. Shortage of human resources in delivering sustainable WASH services, inadequate supervision, and inadequate evaluation of activities also required further improvement, as identified by WASH stakeholders.

Conclusion

Research evidence suggests that decision-makers, donors, and development partners should consider learning from the WASH implementers and stakeholders about their existing capacity, gaps, and opportunities before planning for any WASH intervention in any particular area.

Seroprevalence of Japanese encephalitis virus-specific antibodies in Australia following novel epidemic spread: protocol for a national cross-sectional study

Por: Winkler · N. E. · Koirala · A. · Kaur · G. · Prasad · S. · Hirani · R. · Baker · J. · Hoad · V. · Gosbell · I. B. · Irving · D. O. · Hueston · L. · O'Sullivan · M. V. · Kok · J. · Dwyer · D. E. · Macartney · K. · on behalf of the Australian Japanese Encephalitis Virus Serosurvey Gr
Introduction

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that causes encephalitis and other morbidity in Southeast Asia. Since February 2022, geographically dispersed JEV human, animal and vector detections occurred on the Australian mainland for the first time. This study will determine the prevalence of JEV-specific antibodies in human blood with a focus on populations at high risk of JEV exposure and determine risk factors associated with JEV seropositivity by location, age, occupation and other factors.

Method

Samples are collected using two approaches: from routine blood donors (4153 samples), and active collections targeting high-risk populations (convenience sampling). Consent-based sampling for the latter includes a participant questionnaire on demographic, vaccination and exposure data. Samples are tested for JEV-specific total antibody using a defined epitope-blocking ELISA, and total antibody to Australian endemic flaviviruses Murray Valley encephalitis and Kunjin viruses.

Analysis

Two analytic approaches will occur: descriptive estimates of seroprevalence and multivariable logistic regression using Bayesian hierarchical models. Descriptive analyses will include unadjusted analysis of raw data with exclusions for JEV-endemic country of birth, travel to JEV-endemic countries, prior JEV-vaccination, and sex-standardised and age-standardised analyses. Multivariable logistic regression will determine which risk factors are associated with JEV seropositivity likely due to recent transmission within Australia and the relative contribution of each factor when accounting for effects within the model.

Ethics

National Mutual Acceptance ethical approval was obtained from the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC). Local approvals were sought in each jurisdiction. Ethical approval was also obtained from the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood HREC.

Dissemination

Findings will be communicated to participants and their communities, and human and animal health stakeholders and policy-makers iteratively and after final analyses. Understanding human infection rates will inform procurement and targeted allocation of limited JEV vaccine, and public health strategies and communication campaigns, to at-risk populations.

Coping and anxiety symptoms in family carers of dependent older people: Mediation and moderation effects of subjective caregiver burden

Abstract

Introduction

Coping responses influence anxiety symptoms experienced by informal carers. However, only a few studies have investigated the longitudinal association between coping responses and anxiety symptoms in family carers. We also currently have limited knowledge on the mediating or moderating influence of subjective caregiver burden on this relationship over time. The aim of the present study was to investigate the longitudinal relationship between coping and anxiety symptoms in family carers of dependent older people, and examine the mediating or moderating role of subjective caregiver burden over time.

Design

Prospective longitudinal study.

Methods

We recruited and enrolled participants from a probability sample of 132 family carers of older dependent relatives. We measured coping strategies, anxiety symptoms, subjective caregiver burden, and several covariates (sex and intensity of care) at baseline and at 1-year follow-up. We used generalized estimating equations with multiple imputations to examine associations over time.

Results

Considering both direct and indirect effects through subjective burden, anxiety symptoms were positively associated with proactive coping (B = 0.13), planning (B = 0.15), self-distraction (B = 0.24), denial (B = 1.15), venting (B = 0.94) and self-blame (B = 0.90), and negatively associated with positive reframing (B = −0.83) and acceptance (B = −0.75). Subjective caregiver burden moderated the relationship between anxiety symptoms and planning, and the use of denial as a form of coping.

Conclusions

Our results show that subjective caregiver burden is an important moderator and mediator of the longitudinal association between coping responses and anxiety symptoms in carers.

Clinical Relevance

Proactive coping and planning when subjective burden is low, self-distraction, denial, venting, and self-blame significantly increase levels of anxiety and caregiver burden in carers over time. Acceptance and positive reframing however as coping responses are associated with lower levels of anxiety and caregiver burden long-term. Our findings highlight the need for a multi-dimensional approach in future caregiving interventions.

Effect of vitamin D on clinical outcomes in patients with thermal injury

Abstract

Evaluating complications and mortality risks in burn patients is crucial for effective treatment planning and improving survival rates. This study investigated the relationship between the serum vitamin D level and the clinical outcomes of adult burns patients. This was a prospective cohort of adult patients hospitalized due to thermal burns at a burn centre in the north of Iran. Based on the level of 25 hydroxyvitamin D measured upon admission, patients were divided into two groups of patients with sufficient 25 hydroxyvitamin D level and insufficient 25 hydroxyvitamin D level. Descriptive statistics were used for baseline demographics. Univariate analysis was conducted using Mann–Whitney U, Chi-square, independent samples, and Fisher's exact tests. A multivariate logistic regression was performed to adjust for the effects of confounding variables. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS 28.0 software. A total of 220 patients were included in the study. The average total body surface area burned was 30.52 ± 9.34. Patients with insufficient vitamin D levels had longer hospital stays (12.53 vs. 11.45) and longer stays in the intensive care unit (ICU) (3.32 vs. 2.40) than those with appropriate vitamin D levels. Participants with insufficient vitamin D levels exhibited a numerically higher incidence of infections than those with adequate levels (p < 0.05). The multivariate regression found that vitamin D deficiency levels were associated with increased infection rates and prolonged hospital stay. This study suggests that vitamin D deficiency is a significant risk factor for adverse clinical outcomes in burn patients. Further research is needed to confirm these associations and to explore potential interventions to optimize vitamin D status in this patient population.

Automatic classification of sleep stages using EEG signals and convolutional neural networks

by Ihssan S. Masad, Amin Alqudah, Shoroq Qazan

Sleep stages classification is one of the new topics in studying human life quality because it plays a crucial role in getting a healthy lifestyle. Abnormal changes or absence of normal sleep may lead to different diseases such as heart-related diseases, diabetes, and obesity. In general, sleep staging analysis can be performed using electroencephalography (EEG) signals. This study proposes a convolutional neural network (CNN) based methodology for sleep stage classification using EEG signals taken by six channels and transformed into time-frequency analysis images. The proposed methodology consists of three major steps: (i) segment the EEG signal into epochs with 30 seconds in length, (ii) convert epochs into 2D representation using time-frequency analysis, and (iii) feed the 2D time-frequency analysis to the 2D CNN. The results showed that the proposed methodology is robust and achieved a very high accuracy of 99.39% for channel C4-A1. All other channels have accuracy values above 98.5%, which indicates that any channel can be used for sleep stage classification with high accuracy. The proposed methodology outperformed the methods in the literature in terms of overall accuracy or single channel accuracy. It is expected to provide a great benefit for physicians, especially neurologists; by providing them with a new powerful tool to support the clinical diagnosis of sleep-related diseases.

Implementation of antimicrobial stewardship programs: A study of prescribers’ perspective of facilitators and barriers

by Emelda E. Chukwu, Dennis Abuh, Ifeoma E. Idigbe, Kazeem A. Osuolale, Vivian Chuka-Ebene, Oluwatoyin Awoderu, Rosemary A. Audu, Folasade T. Ogunsola

Background

Despite promising signs of the benefits associated with Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs (ASPs), there remains limited knowledge on how to implement ASPs in peculiar settings for a more elaborate impact. This study explored prescriber experiences and perceptions of the usefulness, and feasibility of strategies employed for the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) interventions as well as challenges encountered.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional mixed-method survey of prescribers’ perspective of the facilitators and barriers of implementing ASP. The quantitative approach comprised of a semi-structured questionnaire and data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 26 while the qualitative approach used focus group discussions followed by content analysis.

Results

Out of the thirty people that participated in the workshop, twenty-five completed the questionnaires which were analyzed. The respondents included 15 (60.0%) medical doctors and 10 (40.0%) pharmacists. The mean age of the respondents was 36.39±7.23 years with mean year of practice of 9.48±6.01 years. Majority of them (84.0%) were in a position to provide input on the implementation of AMS in their facilities, although their managements had the final decision. The pharmacists (100%) were more likely to agree that antibiotic resistance was a problem for their practice than the medical doctors (78.6%) while equal number (80.0%) of respondents (pharmacists and medical doctors) believed that inappropriate prescribing was a problem. Having a specialized and dedicated team with effective monitoring was recognized as crucial for effective ASP while inadequate personnel was identified as a major barrier. We identified stakeholder’s engagement, policies and regulation, as well as education as themes for improving AMS in the country.

Conclusion

The results gave insight into the prescribers’ perspective on the facilitators and barriers to antimicrobial stewardship; challenges and possible solutions to implementing ASPs in health facilities in Lagos State. We further identified pertinent contextual factors that need to be addressed when developing ASPs in healthcare facilities in a resource-poor setting.

Dislodgement resistance and structural changes of tricalcium silicate-based cements after exposure to different chelating agents

by Özgür İlke Ulusoy, Nidambur Vasudev Ballal, Rajkumar Narkedamalli, Nuran Ulusoy, Krishna Prasad Shetty, Alexander Maniangat Luke

This study aimed to evaluate the dislodgement resistance and structural changes of different mineral trioxide aggregate cements (MTA) like Pro-Root MTA, Ortho MTA, and Retro MTA after exposure to sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), NaOCl-Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), 1-hydroxyethylidene-1, 1-bisphosphonate (Dual Rinse HEDP), and NaOCl-Maleic acid (MA). The root canal spaces of 150 dentine slices were obturated using tricalcium silicate cements and divided into 3 groups (n = 50): Group1: ProRoot MTA, Group2: Retro MTA, and Group3: Ortho MTA. The samples in each group were further subdivided into four experimental (n = 10) and one control groups (n = 10): 2.5% NaOCl-17% EDTA, Dual Rinse HEDP, 2.5% NaOCl-7% Maleic acid, 2.5% NaOCl, distilled water (control). The dislodgement resistance and structural changes of cements were measured. Use of DR HEDP resulted in higher dislodgement resistance compared to17% EDTA and 7% MA in the samples obturated with Ortho MTA and Pro-Root MTA (p

Prevalence of surgical site infection and risk factors in patients after foot and ankle surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the prevalence of surgical site infection (SSI) and related factors in patients after foot and ankle surgery. A comprehensive, systematic search was conducted in different international electronic databases, such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and Persian electronic databases such as Iranmedex and Scientific Information Database (SID) using keywords extracted from Medical Subject Headings such as ‘Prevalence’, ‘Surgical wound infection’, ‘Surgical site infection’ and ‘Orthopaedics’ from the earliest to 1 June 2023. The appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies (AXIS tool) evaluates the quality of the included studies. A total of 10 447 patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery participated in nine studies. The pooled prevalence of SSI in patients who underwent foot and ankle surgery was reported in nine studies was 4.2% (95% CI: 2.4%–7.2%; I2 = 96.793%; p < 0.001). The odds ratio of SSI prevalence in men was higher than that of women and was significant (OR: 1.335; 95% CI: 1.106–1.612; Z = 3.009; p = 0.003). The pooled prevalence of SSI in patients with hindfoot fracture sites reported in five studies was 4.9% (95% CI: 2.6%–8.9%; I2 = 90.768%; p < 0.001). The pooled prevalence of SSI in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) reported in six studies was 9.1% (95% CI: 5.6%–14.6%; I2 = 73.957%; p = 0.002). The pooled prevalence of SSI in patients with hypertension (HTN) reported in five studies was 5.5% (95% CI: 2.5%–11.6%; I2 = 91.346%; p < 0.001). The pooled prevalence of SSI in patients with tobacco use reported in eight studies was 6.6% (95% CI: 4.1%–10.4%; I2 = 85.379%; p < 0.001). In general, the existing differences in the prevalence of SSI after foot and ankle surgery in different studies can be based on different risk factors such as comorbidities and gender. Therefore, it is suggested to design appropriate interventions to reduce SSI in these patients.

SRY gene isolation from teeth for forensic gender identification—An observational study

by Prathibha Prasad, Mohamed Jaber, Dinesh Y., Prathibha Ramani, Abdulrahman Arafat, Abdalla Khairy

Personal identification in forensics is possible with gender determination using DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) analysis. DNA isolation from teeth samples subjected to extreme temperatures has been shown to predict the gender of the deceased. However, the literature lacks studies on DNA extracted from tooth samples exposed to freezing temperatures. This study aimed to isolate the SRY gene from the extirpated pulp of teeth that were subjected to varying temperatures for gender identification. Thirty teeth with vital pulps, divided into 3 groups were included in the study. Each group consisted of 5 male and 5 female tooth samples. The groups were exposed to diverse environmental factors for three weeks. Group 1: room temperature (R group); Group 2: high temperature (H group) and Group 3: freezing temperature (F group). Later, DNA was isolated from the pulp tissue, and the SRY gene was amplified using PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction). The Sensitivity and Specificity of the results were analyzed. SRY gene detected in the study samples identified accurate gender with a 46.70% Sensitivity and 93.30% Specificity. Significant difference was found in the correlation between gene expression and gender among the three groups (p = 1.000). The study validates that dental pulp tissue can be a reliable source for DNA extraction. And SRY gene amplification from teeth exposed to diverse environmental conditions. Further investigations are required to validate its application in forensics.

Systematic review of end stage renal disease in Pakistan: Identifying implementation research outcomes

by Hamad AlRashed, Johanna Miele, Joshua Prasad, Deborah Adenikinju, Chukwuemeka Iloegbu, John Patena, Dorice Vieira, Joyce Gyamfi, Emmanuel Peprah

Aim and objectives

The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review analysis to identify and evaluate the available literature on implementation science outcomes research in relation to End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) in Pakistan.

Methods

A systematic database search of PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Ovid was conducted through October 22nd, 2022, without any restrictions on publication dates. A screening and data extraction tool, Covidence, was used to evaluate the literature against our inclusion and exclusion criteria. Furthermore, a Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was used to evaluate the selected studies.

Results

We identified four studies that presented findings of implementation outcomes research which were related to appropriateness, feasibility, and acceptability. Appropriateness was examined using knowledge scores (p = 0.022) and medication adherence scores (p Conclusion

The preliminary results of this review indicate a gap in the availability of implementation research studies about ESRD in Pakistan. The burden of ESRD, and the implementation methods by which it is treated is notable in Pakistan and requires evidence-based measures to be implemented to support the critical healthcare delivery platforms that provide treatment.

"I thought I was going to die": Experiences of COVID-19 patients managed at home in Uganda

by Susan Nakireka, David Mukunya, Crescent Tumuhaise, Ronald Olum, Edith Namulema, Agnes Napyo, Quraish Serwanja, Prossie Merab Ingabire, Asad Muyinda, Felix Bongomin, Milton Musaba, Vivian Mutaki, Ritah Nantale, Phillip Akunguru, Rozen Ainembabazi, Derrick Nomujuni, William Olwit, Aisha Nakawunde, Specioza Nyiramugisha, Pamela Mwa Aol, Joseph Rujumba, Ian Munabi, Sarah Kiguli

Background

In Uganda, approximately 170,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 3,630 deaths have been reported as of January 2023. At the start of the second COVID-19 wave, the Ugandan health system was overwhelmed with a sudden increase in the number of COVID-19 patients who needed care, and the Ministry of Health resorted to home-based isolation and care for patients with mild to moderate disease. Before its rollout, the COVID-19 home-based care strategy had neither been piloted nor tested in Uganda.

Objective

To explore the experiences of COVID-19 patients managed at home in Uganda.

Methods

This was a qualitative study that was conducted to explore the lived experiences of COVID-19 patients managed at home. The study was carried out among patients who presented to three hospitals that were designated for treating COVID-19 patients in Uganda. COVID-19 patients diagnosed at these hospitals and managed at home were followed up and contacted for in-depth telephone interviews. The data were analysed using thematic content analysis with the aid of NVIVO 12.0.0 (QRS International, Cambridge, MA).

Results

Participants experienced feelings of fear and anxiety: fear of death, fear of losing jobs, fear of infecting loved ones and fear of adverse events such as loss of libido. Participants also reported feelings of loneliness, hopelessness and depression on top of the debilitating and sometimes worsening symptoms. In addition to conventional medicines, participants took various kinds of home remedies and herbal concoctions to alleviate their symptoms. Furthermore, COVID-19 care resulted in a high economic burden, which persisted after the COVID-19 illness. Stigma was a major theme reported by participants. Participants recommended that COVID-19 care should include counselling before testing and during and after the illness to combat the fear and stigma associated with the diagnosis. Another recommendation was that health workers should carry out home visits to patients undergoing home-based care and that COVID-19 treatment should be free of charge.

Conclusion

COVID-19 home-based care was associated with fear, anxiety, loneliness, depression, economic loss and stigma. Policymakers should consider various home-based follow-up strategies and strengthen counselling of COVID-19 patients at all stages of care.

Antibiofilm and antimicrobial activity of Lactobacillus cell free supernatant against Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from burn wounds

Abstract

The present study investigated the antimicrobial and anti-biofilm effects of indigenous Lactobacillus probiotic strains on Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from burn wound infection in laboratory conditions. The effect of 7 probiotic strains isolated from infant faeces on the pathogenicity factors of P. aeruginosa, including protease, elastase, antibiofilm and antipyocyanin was measured. Also, diffusion methods in the well and micro broth dilution were used to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of probiotics. All tests were performed in triplicate. A negative control and a positive control were used for each test. SPSS version 22 software was used for statistical analysis, and a p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 30 clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa were isolated. The elastolytic activity of P. aeruginosa isolates decreased after adding Cell free supernatant (CFS) of each Lactobacillus. L1, L4, L5, and L6 strains had a 100% inhibitory effect on pathogen isolates. L3 and L7 strains had the lowest inhibitory effect. The inhibitory effect of CFS extracted from lactobacilli on protease production by P. aeruginosa. L1, L4, L5, and L6 strains had an inhibitory effect on all tested isolates. L2, L3, and L7 strains had a less inhibitory effect. L4 strain had the highest inhibitory effect on pyocyanin production by P. aeruginosa (50%), followed by L5 (43.3%), L1 (40%), and L6 (23.3%) strains. L3 and L7 strains had no inhibitory effect on the pyocyanin production of P. aeruginosa isolates. It was found that the CFS of 4 isolates (L1, L4, L5, and L6) was the most active extract and had a 100% inhibitory effect against biofilm formation of all P. aeruginosa strains. The L3 strain had the least inhibitory effect against the biofilm formation of pathogens. Overall, this study showed that probiotics could be promising alternatives to combat the pathogenicity of P. aeruginosa in burn wounds.

Prevalence of surgical wound infection and related factors in patients after long bone surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Abstract

The goal of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to provide an overview of the prevalence of surgical wound infection and related factors in patients after long bone surgery. A comprehensive, systematic search was conducted in different international electronic databases, such as Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science and Persian electronic databases such as Iranmedex and Scientific Information Database using keywords extracted from Medical Subject Headings such as “Prevalence”, “Surgical wound infection”, “Surgical site infection” and “Orthopedics” from the earliest to the May 1, 2023. The appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies (AXIS tool) evaluates the quality of the included studies. A total of 71 854 patients undergoing long bone surgery participated in 12 studies. The pooled prevalence of surgical wound infection in patients who underwent long bone surgery reported in the 12 studies was 3.3% (95% CI: 1.5%–7.2%; I 2 = 99.39%; p < 0.001). The pooled prevalence of surgical wound infection in male and female patients who underwent long bone surgery was 4.6% (95% CI: 1.7%–11.7%; p < 0.001; I 2 = 99.34%) and 2.6% (95% CI: 1.0%–6.3%; I 2 = 98.84%; p < 0.001), respectively. The pooled prevalence of surgical wound infection in patients with femur surgery sites reported in nine studies was 3.7% (95% CI: 2.1–6.4%; I 2 = 93.43%; p < 0.001). The pooled prevalence of surgical wound infection in open and close fractures was 16.4% (95% CI: 8.2%–30.2%; I 2 = 95.83%; p < 0.001) and 2.9% (95% CI: 1.5%–5.5%; I 2 = 96.40%; p < 0.001), respectively. The pooled prevalence of surgical wound infection in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) was 4.6% (95% CI: 2.3%–8.9%; I 2 = 81.50%; p < 0.001), 2.7% (95% CI: 1.2%–6.0%; I 2 = 83.82%; p < 0.001) and 3.0% (95% CI: 1.4%–6.4%; I 2 = 69.12%; p = 0.006), respectively. In general, the different prevalence of surgical wound infection in patients undergoing surgical treatment after long bone fracture may be caused by underlying factors (gender and co-morbidity) and fracture-related factors (surgery site and type of fracture).

In silico exploration of <i>Serratia</i> sp. BRL41 genome for detecting prodigiosin Biosynthetic Gene Cluster (BGC) and in vitro antimicrobial activity assessment of secreted prodigiosin

by Farhana Boby, Md. Nurul Huda Bhuiyan, Barun Kanti Saha, Subarna Sandhani Dey, Anik Kumar Saha, Md Jahidul Islam, Mahci Al Bashera, Shyama Prosad Moulick, Farhana Jahan, Md. Asad Uz Zaman, Sanjana Fatema Chowdhury, Showti Raheel Naser, Md. Salim Khan, Md. Murshed Hasan Sarkar

The raising concern of drug resistance, having substantial impacts on public health, has instigated the search of new natural compounds with substantial medicinal activity. In order to find out a natural solution, the current study has utilized prodigiosin, a linear tripyrrole red pigment, as an active ingredient to control bacterial proliferation and prevent cellular oxidation caused by ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species). A prodigiosin-producing bacterium BRL41 was isolated from the ancient Barhind soil of BCSIR Rajshahi Laboratories, Bangladesh, and its morphological and biochemical characteristics were investigated. Whole genome sequencing data of the isolate revealed its identity as Serratia sp. and conferred the presence of prodigiosin gene cluster in the bacterial genome. “Prodigiosin NRPS”, among the 10 analyzed gene clusters, showed 100% similarity with query sequences where pigC, pigH, pigI, and pigJ were identified as fundamental genes for prodigiosin biosynthesis. Some other prominent clusters for synthesis of ririwpeptides, yersinopine, trichrysobactin were also found in the chromosome of BRL41, whilst the rest displayed less similarity with query sequences. Except some first-generation beta-lactam resistance genes, no virulence and resistance genes were found in the genome of BRL41. Structural illumination of the extracted red pigment by spectrophotometric scanning, Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and change of color at different pH solutions verified the identity of the isolated compound as prodigiosin. Serratia sp. BRL41 attained its maximum productivity 564.74 units/cell at temperature 30˚C and pH 7.5 in two-fold diluted nutrient broth medium. The compound exhibited promising antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria with MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) and MBC (Minimum Bactericidal Concentration) values ranged from 3.9 to15.62 μg/mL and 7.81 to 31.25 μg/mL respectively. At concentration 500 μg/mL, except in Salmonella enterica ATCC-10708, prodigiosin significantly diminished biofilm formed by Listeria monocytogens ATCC-3193, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC-9027, Escherichia coli (environmental isolate), Staphylococcus aureus (environmental isolate). Cellular glutathione level (GSH) was elevated upon application of 250 and 500 μg/mL pigment where 125 μg/mL failed to show any free radical scavenging activity. Additionally, release of cellular components in growth media of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria were facilitated by the extract that might be associated with cell membrane destabilization. Therefore, the overall findings of antimicrobial, antibiofilm and antioxidant activities suggest that in time to come prodigiosin might be a potential natural source to treat various diseases and infections.

Spanish version of the Self‐Care of Chronic Illness Inventory: A validation study amongst community‐dwelling older adults with chronic multimorbidity

Abstract

Aim

To psychometrically assess the Spanish version of the Self-Care of Chronic Illness Inventory (SC-CII-Sp) in community-dwelling older adults with chronic multimorbidity.

Design

A methodological study.

Method

A total of 1260 older adults participated in the study between May 2020 and February 2022. The data were analysed using SPSS Statistics® 26 and AMOS® 24. The items' content validity index and the Fleiss' kappa were calculated to assess the SC-CII-Sp's content validity. Convergent validity was assessed by calculating the Pearson correlation coefficient between the participants' scores on the SC-CII-Sp and their scores on the Spanish Chronic Disease Self-Efficacy scale (SCD-SE). Construct validity was tested by performing a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The SC-CII-Sp's reliability was tested by computing the Cronbach's alpha.

Results

The SC-CII-Sp showed good content and convergent validity. The CFA showed that the SC-CII-Sp has three sub-scales. The 8-item Self-Care Maintenance sub-scale has good internal consistency and is comprised of two dimensions: illness-related and health-promoting behaviour. The Self-Care Monitoring sub-scale had excellent internal consistency and its five loaded items belonged to a single dimension. The 6-item Self-Care Management sub-scale has adequate internal consistency and two dimensions: autonomous and consulting behaviour.

Conclusion

The Spanish version of SC-CII is a valid and reliable instrument to be used in the assessment of self-care behaviours amongst Spanish-speaking, community-dwelling older adults with chronic multimorbidity.

Implications for the Profession

Nurses need valid and reliable tools to assess self-care behaviours in Spanish-speaking community-dwelling older adults with chronic multimorbidity. This study provides a 19-item tool that allows for the comprehensive evaluation of self-care behaviours in healthy and ill states.

Impact

Using the SC-CII-Sp in clinical or research settings could help nurses to examine the effects of different interventions on self-care behaviours amongst Spanish-speaking, community-dwelling older adults with chronic multimorbidity.

Patient or Public Contribution

None to be reported.

Cuidados de enfermería ante la adversidad

Nos movemos en un mundo complejo que aúna los mayores avances que el conocimiento científico-tecnológico ha aportado a la humanidad, con las peores situaciones de inseguridad a las que ha sido sometido el ser humano, que adquieren dimensiones planetarias como consecuencia de la globalización. Si las enfermeras sabemos que el compromiso con la ciudadanía se acentúa en los momentos de adversidad, lo cierto es que acontecimientos como desastres naturales, accidentes imprevistos de grandes dimensiones, actos terroristas, conflictos armados y en general situaciones que ponen a prueba la supervivencia de los individuos y las colectividades, nos hacen tomar conciencia de la verdadera extensión a la que somos llamadas en nuestra vocación de servicio [fragmento de texto].

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