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IntroductionLyme disease (LD) is the most frequent tick-borne disease in the moderate climates of Europe. This study will inform the phase III efficacy study for Pfizer and Valneva’s investigational Lyme disease vaccine, VLA15. VLA15 phase III will be conducted in the USA and Europe due to the vaccine’s serotype coverage and public health burden of LD. In Europe, the existence and location of sites that have access to populations with high LD annual incidence is uncertain. This active, prospective surveillance study assesses annual LD incidence at general practice (GP)/primary care sites, allowing for phase III site vetting and better characterisation of LD burden in selected regions for study size calculations. Methods and analysisThis burden of Lyme disease (BOLD) study will assess LD incidence overall and by site at 15 GP/primary care practices in endemic areas of 6 European countries from Spring 2021 to December 2022 and will be summarised with counts (n), percentages (%) and associated 95% CIs. Suspected LD cases identified from site’s practice panels are documented on screening logs, where clinical LD manifestations, diagnoses and standard of care diagnostic results are recorded. In the initial 12-month enrolment phase, suspected LD cases are offered enrolment. Participants undergo interview and clinical assessments to establish medical history, final clinical diagnosis, clinical manifestations and quality of life impact. Study-specific procedures include LD serology, skin punch biopsies and Lyme manifestation photographs. For every enrolled participant diagnosed with LD, 6–10 age-matched controls are randomly selected and offered enrolment for an embedded LD risk factor analysis. Persistent symptoms or post-treatment LD will be assessed at follow-up visits up to 2 years after initial diagnosis, while patients remain symptomatic. Ethics and disseminationThis study has been approved by all sites’ local ethics committees. The results will be presented at conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals. …

ObjectivesThe study aim was to evaluate vaccine effectiveness (VE) of COVID-19 vaccines in preventing symptomatic COVID-19 among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Zambia. We sought to answer the question, ‘What is the vaccine effectiveness of a complete schedule of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine in preventing symptomatic COVID-19 among HCWs in Zambia?’ Design/settingWe conducted a test-negative case–control study among HCWs across different levels of health facilities in Zambia offering point of care testing for COVID-19 from May 2021 to March 2022. Participants1767 participants entered the study and completed it. Cases were HCWs with laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 and controls were HCWs who tested SARS-CoV-2 negative. Consented HCWs with documented history of vaccination for COVID-19 (vaccinated HCWs only) were included in the study. HCWs with unknown test results and unknown vaccination status, were excluded. Primary and secondary outcome measuresThe primary outcome was VE among symptomatic HCWs. Secondary outcomes were VE by: SARS-CoV-2 variant strains based on the predominant variant circulating in Zambia (Delta during May 2021 to November 2021 and Omicron during December 2021 to March 2022), duration since vaccination and vaccine product. ResultsWe recruited 1145 symptomatic HCWs. The median age was 30 years (IQR: 26–38) and 789 (68.9%) were women. Two hundred and eighty-two (24.6%) were fully vaccinated. The median time to full vaccination was 102 days (IQR: 56–144). VE against symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection was 72.7% (95% CI: 61.9% to 80.7%) for fully vaccinated participants. VE was 79.4% (95% CI: 58.2% to 90.7%) during the Delta period and 37.5% (95% CI: –7.0% to 63.3%) during the Omicron period. ConclusionsCOVID-19 vaccines were effective in reducing symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 among Zambian HCWs when the Delta variant was circulating but not when Omicron was circulating. This could be related to immune evasive characteristics and/or waning immunity. These findings support accelerating COVID-19 booster dosing with bivalent vaccines as part of the vaccination programme to reduce COVID-19 in Zambia. …

ObjectiveDespite advancement in vaccines and treatments for COVID-19 over the past 2 years, many concerns remain about reinfection and waning immunity against COVID-19 and its variants, especially among people with substance use disorder (SUD). The study assessed the risk of COVID-19 reinfection and severe illness among adults with SUD and their vaccination status to inform management in this vulnerable population as the pandemic continues. DesignRetrospective cohort study. SettingNationwide electronic health records (TriNetX database) in the USA among adults with COVID-19 infection from January 2020 to June 2022. ParticipantsAdults (age ≥18 years) who were infected by COVID-19, excluding those who had cancer or lived in nursing homes or palliative care facilities. Outcome measuresCOVID-19 reinfection was defined as a new diagnosis after 45 days of the initial infection. Logistic regression was applied to assess the OR of COVID-19 reinfection and severe outcomes within 30 day of reinfection for adults with alcohol (AUD), opioid (OUD), cocaine (CUD), stimulant (STUD), cannabis (CAUD) and other use disorders, controlled for demographic and comorbid conditions. ResultsThe SUD cohort was 13%–29% more likely to be reinfected by COVID-19 and had significantly higher 30-day mortality. Adults with AUD, STUD and OUD were at greater risks (adjusted ORs, AORs=1.69–1.86) of emergency department, hospital and intensive care admissions after 30 days of reinfection. Individuals with SUD and multiple vaccines doses were associated with decreased risks of worse COVID-19 outcomes. Lower COVID-19 reinfection rates (AORs=0.67–0.84) were only found among individuals with AUD, CUD or CAUD who had COVID-19 vaccination. ConclusionsIndividuals with SUD had greater risks of COVID-19 reinfection and poor outcomes, especially those with OUD, STUD and AUD. Multiple vaccinations are recommended to reduce severe illness after COVID-19 reinfection in the SUD population. …

IntroductionObesity is a chronic disease with serious health consequences, but weight loss is difficult to maintain through lifestyle intervention alone. The efficacy and safety of boron citrate (BC), a novel therapeutic approach, in patients with obesity are not known. The current trial will take place to determine the effects of BC supplementation on cardiometabolic factors, inflammatory biomarkers, anthropometric measures and body composition in obese patients. Methods and analysisThis double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised clinical trial will involve 60 eligible obese participants aged 18–60 years. Participants will randomly be allocated to receive either BC capsules (containing 10 mg of boron) in the intervention group or placebo capsules (containing 10 mg of maltodextrin) in the placebo group for 12 weeks. Moreover, physical activity and dietary recommendations will be provided for both groups. To assess the dietary intakes of participants, a 3-day food record (2 days of the week and 1 day of the weekend) will be filled. Cardiometabolic factors, inflammatory biomarkers including tumour necrosis factor α, C reactive protein, interleukin-6 and interleukin-10 levels, anthropometric measures and body composition will be assessed at the baseline and end of the intervention. The findings of this study will provide evidence for the effectiveness of BC in the management of obesity. Ethics and disseminationThere are so far no reported adverse effects associated with the use of boron. This trial was approved by the Ethics Committee of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences (approval number: IR.TBZMED.REC.1401.350). Positive as well as negative findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals. Trial registration numberIRCT20220806055624N1. …

IntroductionHuman papillomavirus (HPV) is the causative agent of nearly all cervical cancers. Despite the proven safety and efficacy of HPV vaccines in preventing HPV-related cancers, the global vaccine coverage rate is estimated to only be 15%. HPV vaccine coverage rates are more actively tracked and reported for adolescents 17 years and younger but there is still a critical window of opportunity to intervene and promote HPV vaccination among young adults aged 18–26 years who are still eligible to be vaccinated. This protocol for a qualitative evidence synthesis aims to review perspectives of HPV vaccination among young adults (18–26 years) and identify facilitators and barriers that influence HPV vaccination uptake and decision-making. Methods and analysisSeven databases will be searched from 1 January 2006 to the date of final search. For inclusion, studies must report HPV vaccination perspectives of young adults aged 18–26 years and use qualitative study methods or analysis techniques. Studies will be screened in a two-stage process guided by the eligibility criteria. Final included studies will be evaluated for methodological strengths and limitations using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme quality assessment tool for qualitative studies. After data extraction, framework analysis will be used to analyse the data applying the socioecological model. Finally, the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation - Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research will be applied to evaluate the confidence in synthesised qualitative findings. The methodology of this review follows the Cochrane Handbook guidelines on qualitative evidence syntheses. Ethics and disseminationFormal ethical approval is not required for this study. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and professional networks. PROSPERO registration numberCRD42023417052. …

ObjectivesDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, most essential services experienced some level of disruption. Disruption in LMICs was more severe than in HICs. Early reports suggested that services for maternal and newborn health were disproportionately affected, raising concerns about health equity. Most disruption indicators measure demand-side disruption, or they conflate demand-side and supply-side disruption. There is currently no published guidance on measuring supply-side disruption. The primary objective of this review was to identify methods and approaches used to measure supply-side service disruptions to maternal and newborn health services in the context of COVID-19. DesignWe carried out a systematic review and have created a typology of measurement methods and approaches using narrative synthesis. Data sourcesWe searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and Global Health in January 2023. We also searched the grey literature. Eligibility criteriaWe included empirical studies describing the measurement of supply-side service disruption of maternal and newborn health services in LMICs in the context of COVID-19. Data extraction and synthesisWe extracted the aim, method(s), setting, and study outcome(s) from included studies. We synthesised findings by type of measure (ie, provision or quality of services) and methodological approach (ie, qualitative or quantitative). ResultsWe identified 28 studies describing 5 approaches to measuring supply-side disruption: (1) cross-sectional surveys of the nature and experience of supply-side disruption, (2) surveys to measure temporal changes in service provision or quality, (3) surveys to create composite disruption scores, (4) surveys of service users to measure receipt of services, and (5) clinical observation of the provision and quality of services. ConclusionOur review identified methods and approaches for measuring supply-side service disruption of maternal and newborn health services. These indicators provide important information about the causes and extent of supply-side disruption and provide a useful starting point for developing specific guidance on the measurement of service disruption in LMICs. …

PurposePakistan has disproportionately high maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. There is a lack of detailed, population-representative data to provide evidence for risk factors, morbidities and mortality among pregnant women and their newborns. The Pregnancy Risk, Infant Surveillance and Measurement Alliance (PRISMA) is a multicountry open cohort that aims to collect high-dimensional, standardised data across five South Asian and African countries for estimating risk and developing innovative strategies to optimise pregnancy outcomes for mothers and their newborns. This study presents the baseline maternal and neonatal characteristics of the Pakistan site occurring prior to the launch of a multisite, harmonised protocol. ParticipantsPRISMA Pakistan study is being conducted at two periurban field sites in Karachi, Pakistan. These sites have primary healthcare clinics where pregnant women and their newborns are followed during the antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal periods up to 1 year after delivery. All encounters are captured electronically through a custom-built Android application. A total of 3731 pregnant women with a mean age of 26.6±5.8 years at the time of pregnancy with neonatal outcomes between January 2021 and August 2022 serve as a baseline for the PRISMA Pakistan study. Findings to dateIn this cohort, live births accounted for the majority of pregnancy outcomes (92%, n=3478), followed by miscarriages/abortions (5.5%, n=205) and stillbirths (2.6%, n=98). Twenty-two per cent of women (n=786) delivered at home. One out of every four neonates was low birth weight (

IntroductionFour years after the devastating Ebola outbreak, governments in West Africa were quick to implement non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) in response to the rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2. The NPIs implemented included physical distancing, closure of schools and businesses, restrictions on public gatherings and mandating the use of face masks among others. In the absence of widely available vaccinations, NPIs were the only known means to try to slow the spread of COVID-19. While numerous studies have assessed the effectiveness of these NPIs in high-income countries, less is known about the processes that lead to the adoption of policies and the factors that influence their implementation and adherence in low-income and middle-income countries. The objective of this scoping review is to understand the extent and type of evidence in relation to the policy formulation, decision-making and implementation stages of NPIs in West Africa. Methods and analysisA scoping review will be undertaken following the guidance developed by Arskey and O’Malley, the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews and the PRISMA guidelines for Scoping Reviews. Both peer-reviewed and grey literature will be searched using Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, APA PsycInfo, WHO Institutional Repository for Information Sharing, JSTOR and Google Advanced Search, and by searching the websites of the WHO, and the West African Health Organisation. Screening will be conducted by two reviewers based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data will be extracted, coded and narratively synthesised. Ethics and disseminationWe started this scoping review in May 2023, and anticipate finishing by April 2024. Ethics approval is not required since we are not collecting primary data. This protocol was registered at Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/gvek2/). We plan to disseminate this research through publications, conference presentations and upcoming West African policy dialogues on pandemic preparedness and response. …

A 54-year-old man was brought to emergency department due to sudden fainting on the street. After primitive recovery, he was hospitalized for bio-clinical examinations. Based on medical documentation, he had a history of hospitalization in 1984 for stercoral peritonitis and traumatic sigmoid perforation treated by Harlmann intervention, and alcoholic liver disease. He was a socially isolated homeless suffered from severe amnesia. Initial clinical examination revealed numerous fly\'s larvae on abdomen, eyelids, right inter-toe spaces, and in several spots of largely disunited laparotomy scar with up to 30 cm openings (Figure 1A).

Peptidoglycan (PG) is a protective mesh-like polymer in bacterial cell walls that enables their survival in almost every ecological niche. PG is formed by crosslinking of several glycan strands through short peptides, conferring a characteristic structure and elasticity, distinguishing it from other polymeric exoskeletons. The significance of PG crosslink formation has been known for decades, as some of the most widely used antibiotics, namely β-lactams, target the enzymes that catalyze this step. However, the importance of crosslink hydrolysis in PG biology remained largely underappreciated. Recent advances demonstrate the functions of crosslink cleavage in diverse physiological processes, including an indispensable role in PG expansion during the cell cycle, thereby making crosslink cleaving enzymes an untapped target for novel drugs. Here, we elaborate on the fundamental roles of crosslink-specific endopeptidases and their regulation across the bacterial kingdom.

Abstract Background Malaria is a major global health challenge, and for the elimination and eradication of this disease, transmission-blocking vaccines (TBVs) are a priority. Plasmodium falciparum Generative Cell Specific 1 (PfGCS1), a promising TBV candidate, is essential for gamete fertilization. The HAP2-GCS1 domain of this antigen as well as its cd loop could induce antibodies that partially inhibit transmission of P. falciparum. Methods In the current study, a new synthetic fusion antigen containing cd loop and HAP2-GCS1 domain (cd-HAP) of PfGCS1 was evaluated as a transmission blocking vaccine candidate. Initially, the profile of naturally acquired IgG antibodies to the cd-HAP antigen was analysed in Iranian individuals infected with P. falciparum, to confirm that this new fusion protein has the appropriate structure containing common epitopes with the native form of PfGCS1. Then, the immunogenicity of cd-HAP was evaluated in BALB/c mice, using different adjuvant systems such as CpG, MPL, QS-21, and a combination of them (CMQ). Furthermore, the blocking efficacy of polyclonal antibodies induced against these formulations was also assessed by oocyst intensity and infection prevalence in the Standard Membrane Feeding Assay (SMFA). Results The naturally acquired antibodies (dominantly IgG1 and IgG3 subclasses) induced in P. falciparum-infected individuals could recognize the cd-HAP antigen which implies that the new fusion protein has a proper conformation that mimics the native structure of PfGCS1. Concerning the immunogenicity of cd-HAP antigen, the highest IgG levels and titers, by a Th1-type immune profile, and elevated antibody avidity were induced in mice immunized with the cd-HAP antigen formulated with a combination of adjuvants (P 

To compare COVID-19-associated pulmonary mucormycosis (CAPM) with COVID-19-associated rhino-orbital mucormycosis (CAROM), ascertain factors associated with CAPM among patients with COVID-19, and identify factors associated with 12-week mortality in CAPM.

ObjectivesHIV-induced chronic inflammation, immune activation and combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) are linked with adverse metabolic changes known to cause cardiovascular adversities. This study evaluates the prevalence of lipodystrophy, and metabolic syndrome (MetS), and analyses risk factors in HIV-infected Ethiopians taking cART. MethodsA multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted at tertiary-level hospitals. Eligible participants attending the HIV clinics were enrolled. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, clinical, HIV treatment variables, lipid profile, fasting blood glucose level, risk factors and components of MetS, also lipodystrophy, were studied. Data were analysed by SPSS statistical package V.25 with descriptive and analytical statistics. For multivariable analysis of risk factors, a logistic regression model was used. Results were presented in frequency and percentages, mean±SD, or median+IQR. Statistical significance was taken as p45 years (aHR 1.8, 95% CI 1.2 to 2.4), female sex (aHR 1.8, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.8), body mass index (BMI)>25 kg/m2 (aHR 2.7, 95% CI 1.8 to 4.1), efavirenz-based cART (aHR 2.8, 95% CI 1.6 to 4.8) and lopinavir/ritonavir-based cART (aHR 3.7, 95% CI 1.0 to 13.3). The prevalence of lipodystrophy was 23.6%. Prior exposure to a stavudine-containing regimen was independently associated with lipodystrophy (aHR 3.1, 95% CI 1.6 to 6.1). ConclusionOur study revealed 38% of the participants had MetS indicating considerable cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks. Independent risk factors for MetS were BMI≥25 kg/m2, efavirenz and lopinavir/ritonavir-based cART, female sex and age ≥45 years. In addition to prevention, CVD risk stratification and management will reduce morbidity and mortality in people with HIV infection. …

ObjectivesThe aim of this multicentre COVID-PREDICT study (a nationwide observational cohort study that aims to better understand clinical course of COVID-19 and to predict which COVID-19 patients should receive which treatment and which type of care) was to determine the association between atrial fibrillation (AF) and mortality, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, complications and discharge destination in hospitalised COVID-19 patients. SettingData from a historical cohort study in eight hospitals (both academic and non-academic) in the Netherlands between January 2020 and July 2021 were used in this study. Participants3064 hospitalised COVID-19 patients >18 years old. Primary and secondary outcome measuresThe primary outcome was the incidence of new-onset AF during hospitalisation. Secondary outcomes were the association between new-onset AF (vs prevalent or non-AF) and mortality, ICU admissions, complications and discharge destination, performed by univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. ResultsOf the 3064 included patients (60.6% men, median age: 65 years, IQR 55–75 years), 72 (2.3%) patients had prevalent AF and 164 (5.4%) patients developed new-onset AF during hospitalisation. Compared with patients without AF, patients with new-onset AF had a higher incidence of death (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.71, 95% CI 1.17 to 2.59) an ICU admission (aOR 5.45, 95% CI 3.90 to 7.61). Mortality was non-significantly different between patients with prevalent AF and those with new-onset AF (aOR 0.97, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.76). However, new-onset AF was associated with a higher incidence of ICU admission and complications compared with prevalent AF (OR 6.34, 95% CI 2.95 to 13.63, OR 3.04, 95% CI 1.67 to 5.55, respectively). ConclusionNew-onset AF was associated with an increased incidence of death, ICU admission, complications and a lower chance to be discharged home. These effects were far less pronounced in patients with prevalent AF. Therefore, new-onset AF seems to represent a marker of disease severity, rather than a cause of adverse outcomes. …

PurposeThe RESPIRA cohort aims to describe the nature, magnitude, time course and efficacy of the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination, population prevalence, and household transmission of COVID-19. ParticipantsFrom November 2020, we selected age-stratified random samples of COVID-19 cases from Costa Rica confirmed by PCR. For each case, two population-based controls, matched on age, sex and census tract were recruited, supplemented with hospitalised cases and household contacts. Participants were interviewed and blood and saliva collected for antibodies and PCR tests. Participants will be followed for 2 years to assess antibody response and infection incidence. Findings to dateRecruitment included 3860 individuals: 1150 COVID-19 cases, 1999 population controls and 719 household contacts from 304 index cases. The age and regional distribution of cases was as planned, including four age strata, 30% rural and 70% urban. The control cohort had similar sex, age and regional distribution as the cases according to the study design. Among the 1999 controls recruited, 6.8% reported at enrolment having had COVID-19 and an additional 12.5% had antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. Compliance with visits and specimens has been close to 70% during the first 18 months of follow-up. During the study, national vaccination was implemented and nearly 90% of our cohort participants were vaccinated during follow-up. Future plansRESPIRA will enable multiple analyses, including population prevalence of infection, clinical, behavioural, immunological and genetic risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 acquisition and severity, and determinants of household transmission. We are conducting retrospective and prospective assessment of antibody levels, their determinants and their protective efficacy after infection and vaccination, the impact of long-COVID and a series of ancillary studies. Follow-up continues with bimonthly saliva collection for PCR testing and biannual blood collection for immune response analyses. Follow-up will be completed in early 2024. Trial registration numberNCT04537338. …

BackgroundAlzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterised by cognitive decline, behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) and impairment of activities of daily living (ADL). Early differentiation of AD from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is necessary. MethodsA total of 458 patients newly diagnosed with AD and MCI were included. Eleven batteries were used to evaluate ADL, BPSD and cognitive function (ABC). Machine learning approaches including XGboost, classification and regression tree, Bayes, support vector machines and logical regression were used to build and verify the new tool. ResultsThe Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS-cog) word recognition task showed the best importance in judging AD and MCI, followed by correct numbers of auditory verbal learning test delay recall and ADAS-cog orientation. We also provided a selected ABC-Scale that covered ADL, BPSD and cognitive function with an estimated completion time of 18 min. The sensitivity was improved in the four models. ConclusionThe quick screen ABC-Scale covers three dimensions of ADL, BPSD and cognitive function with good efficiency in differentiating AD from MCI. …

ObjectiveOn 20 July 2021, after the outbreak of COVID-19 at Nanjing Lukou International Airport, several universities started closed management and online teaching. This had a large impact on students’ daily life and study, which may lead to mental health problems. The purpose of this study is to study the effect of screen time on mental health status of university students and the possible mediating effect of sleep status. MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study. A web-based questionnaire survey was employed that included demographic characteristics, sleep status and mental health status (depression, anxiety and loneliness). The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scale was used to assess sleep status, while the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scale, Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale and Emotional versus Social Loneliness Scale (ESLS) were used to assess depression, anxiety and loneliness, respectively. Linear and logistic regression models were developed and adjusted for confounding factors, and finally the mediating effects were tested using the Karlson-Holm-Breen method. ResultsFinally, 1070 valid questionnaires were included. Among these, 604 (56.45%) indicated depressive symptoms (CES-D score ≥16) and 902 (84.30%) indicated anxiety symptoms (GAD-7 score ≥10). The mean ESLS score (for loneliness) was 26.51±6.64. The relationship between screen time and depressive symptoms (OR 1.118, 95% CI 1.072 to 1.166) and anxiety symptoms (OR 1.079, 95% CI 1.023 to 1.138) remained significant after adjusting for confounding factors. Meanwhile, sleep status plays an intermediary role in screen time and mental health status (depression and anxiety) and accounts for 13.73% and 19.68% of the total effects, respectively. We did not find a significant association between screen time and loneliness. ConclusionDuring the outbreak of COVID-19, screen time is inevitably prolonged among university students. There is a relationship between mental health and screen time, and sleep status plays a mediating role. …

ObjectivesTo assess the feasibility of conducting a pragmatic, multicentre randomised controlled trial (RCT) to test the clinical and cost-effectiveness of an informal caregiver training programme to support the recovery of people following hip fracture surgery. DesignTwo-arm, multicentre, pragmatic, open, feasibility RCT with embedded qualitative study. SettingNational Health Service (NHS) providers in five English hospitals. ParticipantsCommunity-dwelling adults, aged 60 years and over, who undergo hip fracture surgery and their informal caregivers. InterventionUsual care: usual NHS care. Experimental: usual NHS care plus a caregiver–patient dyad training programme (HIP HELPER). This programme comprised three, 1 hour, one-to-one training sessions for a patient and caregiver, delivered by a nurse, physiotherapist or occupational therapist in the hospital setting predischarge. After discharge, patients and caregivers were supported through three telephone coaching sessions. Randomisation and blindingCentral randomisation was computer generated (1:1), stratified by hospital and level of patient cognitive impairment. There was no blinding. Main outcome measuresData collected at baseline and 4 months post randomisation included: screening logs, intervention logs, fidelity checklists, acceptability data and clinical outcomes. Interviews were conducted with a subset of participants and health professionals. Results102 participants were enrolled (51 patients; 51 caregivers). Thirty-nine per cent (515/1311) of patients screened were eligible. Eleven per cent (56/515) of eligible patients consented to be randomised. Forty-eight per cent (12/25) of the intervention group reached compliance to their allocated intervention. There was no evidence of treatment contamination. Qualitative data demonstrated the trial and HIP HELPER programme was acceptable. ConclusionsThe HIP HELPER programme was acceptable to patient–caregiver dyads and health professionals. The COVID-19 pandemic impacting on site’s ability to deliver the research. Modifications are necessary to the design for a viable definitive RCT. Trial registration numberISRCTN13270387. …

IntroductionCountries in the WHO’s African region have found community-based surveillance useful in ensuring the effectiveness of the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response strategy. This approach encourages community participation in the surveillance system, in addition to early detection of outbreaks and other health threats. Thus, advancements in mobile health have the potential to improve community-based surveillance in Africa. The purpose of this review is to map evidence on available mhealth tools for community-based infectious disease surveillance in Africa. Methods and analysisThe scoping review will follow a mixed-methods approach in line with the framework of Arksey and O’Malley amended by Levac and colleagues and the Joanna Briggs Institute. To retrieve published literature, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and Google databases will be explored. Websites of organisations involved in surveillance activities across the African region will also be explored. Authors will be interested in published literature between 2000 and 2022 in any language. The primary investigator and a second author will independently review the retrieved titles according to the inclusion criteria, while a third reviewer will resolve conflicts that may arise. The review will map evidence according to the key concepts (mhealth, community-based surveillance and Africa) to inform stakeholders and mhealth designers on best practices to adopt involving mhealth approaches at the community level and mhealth tool designs, respectively. Results following the review will be presented according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses: Extension for Scoping Review Guidelines. Ethics and disseminationEthical approval is not required for scoping reviews as it does not involve the use of human subjects. This review is the first phase in an overall project on digital health. The findings of the review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated at suitable forums and conferences. …

ObjectivesTo investigate the prevalence of mental disorders and the higher rates of absenteeism from work among healthcare workers employed in Slovenia by analysing the prevalence of sick leave and medication prescriptions for treatment of mental health and behavioural disorders from 2015 to 2020. DesignRetrospective analysis of nationwide data on absenteeism and prescription of medications for treatment of mental health and behavioural disorders (anxiolytics, antipsychotics, antidepressants). SettingNational databases of the National Institute of Public Health in Slovenia. ParticipantsAll employed healthcare workers (35 008 in December 2020): dentists, midwives, nurses, nursing assistants, pharmacists and physicians in Slovenia from 2015 to 2020. ResultsThe most time spent on sick leave by male healthcare workers aged >50 was for ‘neoplasms’ (71.50 days on average), followed by ‘mental health and behavioural disorders’ (62.08 days on average). Female healthcare workers under 40 years old spent the most time on sick leave for ‘pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period (puerperium)’, causing an average of 58.38 days of sick leave. From 2015 to 2020, the highest increase in prescribed medications for treatment of mental health and behavioural disorders was among nursing assistants (an increase of 38.42%), pharmacists (an increase of 29.36%) and nurses (an increase of 26.61%); since the COVID-19 pandemic, an increase of 12.36% was found among dentists, an increase of 11.51% among pharmacists and an increase of 11.36% among nurses. ConclusionThe prescription of medications for treatment of mental health and behavioural disorders was on the rise from 2015 to 2020. The importance of employee health to individuals and society necessitates the systematisation of effective prevention programmes as well as programmes to assist those in need, especially health workers, whose work contributes significantly to maintaining public health. …

IntroductionAcute pancreatitis (AP) is characterised by inflammation of the exocrine pancreas, which potentially leads to local complications and organ failure resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. A long-term follow-up by an experienced team is needed. Currently, a variety of outcome measures are used in clinical trials for patients with AP. However, due to heterogeneous and selective outcome reporting across trials of interventions, it is hard to combine or compare the trial results compromising systematic evaluations of effectiveness and safety. A core outcome set is demanded to standardise reporting for the management of AP in clinical trials, so as to conduct systematic reviews and to improve the quality of the existing evidence base on the management of AP. We designed a study to establish a core outcome set (COS) on what indicators should be measured and reported in clinical trials of patients with AP (COS-AP). Methods and analysisThis study protocol outlines the following five phases: Phase I will be a systematic review of randomised control trials and semistructured interviews with patients to initially establish a preliminary list of potential outcomes. Phase II will be the recruitment of key stakeholders’ groups comprising experts in pancreatic disease, clinical researchers, methodologists, journal editors and patients. Phase III will be two rounds of the Delphi surveys with key stakeholder groups. Phase IV will be a consensus on the outcomes that should be included in a final COS-AP. Phase V will be dissemination of COS-AP. Ethics and disseminationEthical approval for this study was obtained from the Biomedical Research Ethics Committee (BREC) of West China Hospital of Sichuan University (2020 No.691). The findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and meetings. Trial registrationThis study was registered with Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) database as study 2573. …

IntroductionCertain criteria for ventilator-associated events (VAE) definition might influence the type of an event, its detection rate and consequently the resource expenditure in intensive care unit. The Impact of Infections by Antimicrobial-Resistant Microorganisms - Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (IMPACTO MR-PAV) aims to evaluate the incidence and diagnostic accuracy of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) using the current criteria for VAP surveillance in Brazil versus the VAE criteria defined by the US National Healthcare Safety Network-Center for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC) criteria. Methods and analysisThe study will be conducted in around 15 centres across Brazil from October 2022 to December 2023. Trained healthcare professionals will collect data and compare the incidence of VAP using both the current criteria for VAP surveillance in Brazil and the VAE criteria defined by the CDC. The accuracy of the two criteria for identifying VAP will also be analysed. It will also characterise other events associated with mechanical ventilation (ventilator-associated condition, infection-related ventilator-associated complication) and adjudicate VAP reported to the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) using current epidemiological diagnostic criteria. Ethics and disseminationThis study was approved by the Institutional Review Board under the number 52354721.0.1001.0070. The study’s primary outcome measure will be the incidence of VAP using the two different surveillance criteria, and the secondary outcome measures will be the accuracy of the two criteria for identifying VAP and the adjudication of VAP reported to ANVISA. The results will contribute to the improvement of VAP surveillance in Brazil and may have implications for other countries that use similar criteria. Trial registration numberNCT05589727; Clinicaltrials.gov. …

ObjectivesExternal control arms (ECAs) provide useful comparisons in clinical trials when randomised control arms are limited or not feasible. We conducted a systematic review to summarise applications of ECAs in trials of immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs). DesignSystematic review with an appraisal of ECA source quality rated across five domains (data collection, study populations, outcome definitions, reliability and comprehensiveness of the dataset, and other potential limitations) as high, low or unclear quality. Data sourcesEmbase, Medline and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trial were searched through to 12 September 2023. Eligibility criteriaEligible studies were single-arm or randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of inflammatory bowel disease, pouchitis, rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis in which an ECA was used as the comparator. Data extraction and synthesisTwo authors independently screened the search results in duplicate. The characteristics of included studies, external data source(s), outcomes and statistical methods were recorded, and the quality of the ECA data source was assessed by two independent authors. ResultsForty-three studies met the inclusion criteria (inflammatory bowel disease: 16, pouchitis: 1, rheumatoid arthritis: 12, juvenile idiopathic arthritis: 1, ankylosing spondylitis: 5, psoriasis: 3, multiple indications: 4). The majority of these trials were single-arm (33/43) and enrolled adult patients (34/43). All included studies used a historical control rather than a contemporaneous ECA. In RCTs, ECAs were most often derived from the placebo arm of another RCT (6/10). In single-arm trials, historical case series were the most common ECA source (19/33). Most studies (31/43) did not employ a statistical approach to generate the ECA from historical data. ConclusionsStandardised ECA methodology and reporting conventions are lacking for IMIDs trials. The establishment of ECA reporting guidelines may enhance the rigour and transparency of future research. …

IntroductionNon-invasive ventilation (NIV) treatment combined with pronation in patients with COVID-19 respiratory failure has been shown to be effective in improving respiratory function and better patient outcomes. These patients may experience discomfort or anxiety that may reduce adherence to treatment. ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to explore and describe the subjective experiences of patients undergoing helmet NIV and pronation during hospitalisation for COVID-19 respiratory failure, with a focus on the elements of care and strategies adopted by patients that enabled good adaptation to treatments. MethodA qualitative descriptive study, using face-to-face interviews, was carried out with a purposeful sample of 20 participants discharged from a pulmonary intensive care unit who underwent helmet continuous positive airway pressure and pronation during hospitalisation for COVID-19. ResultsContent analysis of the transcripts revealed feelings and experiences related to illness and treatments, strategies for managing one’s own negative thoughts, and practical strategies of one’s own and healthcare workers to facilitate adaptation to pronation and helmet. Experience was reflected in five major topics related to specific time points and settings: feelings and experiences, helmet and pronation: heavy but beneficial, positive thinking strategies, patients’ practical strategies, support of healthcare professionals (HCPs). ConclusionsThis study may be useful to HCPs to improve the quality and appropriateness of care they provide. …

ObjectiveThis paper examines the acceptance of the Advocacy Core Group (ACG) programme, a social and behaviour change intervention addressing maternal, newborn, child health and nutrition (MNCH+N) in Bauchi and Sokoto states, with an additional focus on the perceived endorsement of health behaviours by social networks as a potential factor influencing acceptance. DesignThis study used the qualitative social network analysis approach and used in-depth interviews to collect data from 36 participants across Bauchi and Sokoto states. SettingThis study was conducted in selected communities across Bauchi and Sokoto states. ParticipantsA purposive sample of 36 participants comprised of men and women aged 15–49 years who have been exposed to the ACG programme. ResultsProgramme beneficiaries actively engaged in various ACG-related activities, including health messaging delivered through religious houses, social gatherings, home visits, community meetings and the media. As a result, they reported a perceived change in behaviour regarding exclusive breast feeding, antenatal care visits, family planning and malaria prevention. Our findings indicated consistent discussions on health behaviours between programme beneficiaries and their network partners (NPs), with a perceived endorsement of these behaviours by the NPs. However, a potential negative factor emerged, whereby NPs exhibited perceived disapproval of key behaviours, which poses a threat to behaviour adoption and, consequently, the success of the ACG model. ConclusionsWhile findings suggest the successful implementation and acceptance of the model, it is important to address possible barriers and to further explore the socially determined acceptance of MNCH+N behaviours by NPs. Interventions such as the ACG model should mobilise the networks of programme participants, particularly those with decision-making power, to improve the uptake of health behaviours. …

IntroductionAlzheimer’s disease and other dementias affect >50 million individuals globally and are characterised by broad clinical and biological heterogeneity. Cohort and biobank studies have played a critical role in advancing the understanding of disease pathophysiology and in identifying novel diagnostic and treatment approaches. However, further discovery and validation cohorts are required to clarify the real-world utility of new biomarkers, facilitate research into the development of novel therapies and advance our understanding of the clinical heterogeneity and pathobiology of neurodegenerative diseases. Methods and analysisThe Tallaght University Hospital Institute for Memory and Cognition Biobank for Research in Ageing and Neurodegeneration (TIMC-BRAiN) will recruit 1000 individuals over 5 years. Participants, who are undergoing diagnostic workup in the TIMC Memory Assessment and Support Service (TIMC-MASS), will opt to donate clinical data and biological samples to a biobank. All participants will complete a detailed clinical, neuropsychological and dementia severity assessment (including Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Assessment, Repeatable Battery for Assessment of Neuropsychological Status, Clinical Dementia Rating Scale). Participants undergoing venepuncture/lumbar puncture as part of the clinical workup will be offered the opportunity to donate additional blood (serum/plasma/whole blood) and cerebrospinal fluid samples for longitudinal storage in the TIMC-BRAiN biobank. Participants are followed at 18-month intervals for repeat clinical and cognitive assessments. Anonymised clinical data and biological samples will be stored securely in a central repository and used to facilitate future studies concerned with advancing the diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Ethics and disseminationEthical approval has been granted by the St. James’s Hospital/Tallaght University Hospital Joint Research Ethics Committee (Project ID: 2159), which operates in compliance with the European Communities (Clinical Trials on Medicinal Products for Human Use) Regulations 2004 and ICH Good Clinical Practice Guidelines. Findings using TIMC-BRAiN will be published in a timely and open-access fashion. …

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the International Quality Improvement Collaborative single-site data from a developing country to identify trends in outcomes and factors associated with poor outcomes. DesignRetrospective descriptive study. SettingThe National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Karachi, Pakistan. ParticipantsPatients undergoing surgery for congenital heart disease (CHD). Outcome measureKey factors were examined, including preoperative, procedural and demographic data, as well as surgical complications and outcomes. We identified risk factors for mortality, bacterial sepsis and 30-day mortality using multivariable logistic regression. ResultsA total of 3367 CHD surgical cases were evaluated; of these, 59.4% (2001) were male and 82.8% (2787) were between the ages of 1 and 17 years. Only 0.2% (n=6) were infants (≤30 days) and 2.3% (n=77) were adults (≥18 years). The in-hospital mortality rate was 6.7% (n=224), and 4.4% (n=147) and 0.8% (n=27) had bacterial sepsis and surgical site infections, respectively. The 30-day status was known for 90.8% (n=3058) of the patients, of whom 91.6% (n=2800) were alive. On multivariable analysis, the adjusted OR for in-hospital mortality was 0.40 (0.29–0.56) for teenagers compared with infancy/childhood and 1.95 (1.45–2.61) for patients with oxygen saturation

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to understand how patients experienced hypertension management, with or without blood pressure (BP) telemonitoring, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design, methods, participants and settingThis qualitative study conducted between April and November 2022 consisted of 43 semistructured telephone interviews (23 men and 20 women) from 6 primary care practices in one area of Scotland. ResultsFrom the views of 25 participants with experience of using the Connect Me telemonitoring service and 18 participants without such experience, 5 themes were developed. These were: (1) navigating access to services. There were challenges to gaining timely and/or in-person access to services and a reluctance to attend clinical settings because participants were aware of their increased risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus. (2) Adapting National Health Service services. All six practices had adapted care provision in response to potential COVID-19 transmission; however, these adaptations disrupted routine management of in-person primary care hypertension, diabetes and/or asthma checks. (3) Telemonitoring feedback. Telemonitoring reduced the need to attend in-person primary care practices and supported access to remote healthcare monitoring and feedback. (4) Self-management. Many non-telemonitoring participants were motivated to use self-management strategies to track their BP using home monitoring equipment. Also, participants were empowered to self-manage lifestyle and hypertension medication. (5) Experience of having COVID-19. Some participants contracting the COVID-19 virus experienced an immediate increase in their BP while a few experienced ongoing increased BP readings. ConclusionsThe COVID-19 pandemic disrupted routine in-person care for patients with hypertension. Both telemonitoring and some non-telemonitoring patients were motivated to self-manage hypertension, including self-adjusting medication; however, only those with access to telemonitoring had increased access to hypertension monitoring and feedback. BP telemonitoring permitted routine care to continue for participants in this study and may offer a service useful in pandemic proofing hypertension healthcare in the future. …

ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess the prevalence and related factors of myopia among school-aged children after COVID-19 pandemic. DesignCross-sectional study. SettingPudong New Area, Shanghai. Participants1722 children aged 7–9 randomly selected from 8 primary schools were screened from 1 February 2023 to 30 April 2023. Main outcome measuresChildren’s height, weight and eye parameters were examined. Myopia was defined as a cycloplegic spherical equivalent ≤–0.50 dioptres in either eye. A vision-related behaviour questionnaire was applied to investigate the associations between myopia and its risk factors. ResultsOf the 1722 individuals enrolled, 25.6% (456) had myopia. After adjusting other characteristics, the following factors were associated with an increased rate of myopia: age (9 years vs 7 years, adjusted OR (AOR) 1.84, 95% CI 1.18 to 2.85, p=0.007), parental myopia status (both myopia vs none, AOR 5.66, 95% CI 3.71 to 8.63, p

IntroductionOver half of the populations with knee osteoarthritis (OA) have obesity. These individuals have many other shared metabolic risk factors. Metformin is a safe, inexpensive, well-tolerated drug that has pleiotropic effects, including structural protection, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in OA, specifically the knee. The aim of this randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial is to determine whether metformin reduces knee pain over 6 months in individuals with symptomatic knee OA who are overweight or obese. Methods and analysisOne hundred and two participants with symptomatic knee OA and overweight or obesity will be recruited from the community in Melbourne, Australia, and randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to receive either metformin 2 g or identical placebo daily for 6 months. The primary outcome is reduction of knee pain [assessed by 100 mm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS)] at 6 months. The secondary outcomes are OMERACT-OARSI (Outcome Measures in Rheumatology-Osteoarthritis Research Society International) responder criteria [Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) pain, function and participant’s global assessment (VAS)] at 6 months; change in knee pain, stiffness, function using WOMAC at 6 months and quality of life at 6 months. Adverse events will be recorded. The primary analysis will be by intention to treat, including all participants in their randomised groups. Ethics and disseminationEthics approval has been obtained from the Alfred Hospital Ethics Committee (708/20) and Monash University Human Research Ethics Committee (28498). Written informed consent will be obtained from all the participants. The findings will be disseminated through peer-review publications and conference presentations. Trial registration numberACTRN12621000710820 . …

ObjectivesTo explore the experiences of family members of patients who died or survived following a diagnosis of vaccine-induced immune thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (VITT). DesignA semistructured qualitative study, conducted via Zoom. SettingParticipants discussed their experiences during hospitalisation and following discharge. ParticipantsSixteen family members of patients with VITT (survivors=11; bereaved=5), recruited via a Facebook support group and advertising on Twitter. ResultsAnalysis identified two themes common to both groups of participants: the stress of hospitalisation and the experience of multiple losses. A third theme, living with VITT, was unique to the survivor group and a fourth, battling against the system, was predominantly reported by bereaved participants. ConclusionsThis is a significantly challenged group of people, with multiple emotional, financial, social and psychological losses. These losses have been compounded by experiences of limited governmental and societal recognition of the problems they face. …

Abstract Background and aims Refugees are at higher risk for hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C (HCV), but often face unique healthcare barriers to vaccination, testing, and treatment. This scoping review aimed to identify and characterize HBV and HCV prevention and care services serving refugee populations globally. Methods A literature search was conducted on Embase, Cochrane, and PubMed databases. Research studies published in English between January 2010 to July 2022 describing an HBV or HCV prevention, testing, or treatment intervention for refugees were included. Results There were a total of 69 articles reporting viral hepatitis prevalence, implementation of services, or economic modelling. Of the 38 implementation studies, 14 were stand-alone HBV and/or HCV interventions, while 24 studies included HBV and/or HCV in an intervention targeting multiple infectious diseases and/or parasitic infections. Interventions commonly included a testing (n = 30) or referral (n = 24) component. Frequently reported features to promote program accessibility included bilingual services (n = 25), community partnerships (n = 21), and multidisciplinary staff members (n = 18), such as cultural and/or linguistic mediators, community health workers, community health leaders, lay health workers, local health staff, members of the refugee community, and social workers. The most commonly reported challenge was the transience of refugees (n = 5). Twenty studies noted funding sources, of which twelve reported governmental funding (not including national health insurance) and eight reported that refugees received national health insurance. Conclusions This is the first scoping review to characterize the types of hepatitis prevention, screening, and treatment interventions serving refugee populations globally. Published experiences of HBV and HCV services for refugee populations remain limited. Additional efforts are needed to disseminate models of hepatitis interventions for refugees to ensure access to care for this key population. To achieve hepatitis elimination globally, best practices must be identified and shared to expand access to hepatitis services for refugee populations. …

Abstract Importance Acellular human amniotic fluid (hAF) is an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory fluid that has been used to treat various pro-inflammatory conditions. In a feasibility study, we have previously demonstrated that hAF could be safely administered to severely ill patients with coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19). The impact of acellular hAF on markers of systemic inflammation and clinical outcomes during COVID-19 infection remain unknown. Objective To determine the safety and efficacy of acellular, sterile processed intravenously administered hAF on markers of systemic inflammation during COVID-19. Design, settings and participants This single-center Phase I/II randomized, placebo controlled clinical trial enrolled adult (age ≥ 18 years) patients hospitalized for respiratory symptoms of COVID-19, including hypoxemia, tachypnea or dyspnea. The study was powered for outcomes with an anticipated enrollment of 60 patients. From 09/28/2020 to 02/04/2022 we enrolled and randomized 47 (of an anticipated 60) patients hospitalized due to COVID-19. One patient withdrew consent after randomization but prior to treatment. Safety outcomes to 30 days were collected through hospital discharge and were complete by the end of screening on 6/30/2022. Interventions Intravenous administration of 10 cc sterile processed acellular hAF once daily for up to 5 days vs placebo. Main outcome and measures Blood biomarkers of inflammation, including C-Reactive protein (CRP), lactate dehydrogenase, D-dimer, and interleukin-6 (IL-6), as well as safety outcomes. Results Patients who were randomized to hAF (n = 23) were no more likely to have improvements in CRP from baseline to Day 6 than patients who were randomized to placebo (n = 24) hAF: -5.9 [IQR -8.2, -0.6] vs placebo: -5.9 [-9.4, -2.05]; p = 0.6077). There were no significant differences in safety outcomes or adverse events. Secondary measures of inflammation including lactate dehydrogenase, D-dimer and IL-6 were not statistically different from baseline to day 6. Conclusions and relevance In this randomized clinical trial involving hospitalized patients with COVID-19, the intravenous administration of 10 cc of hAF daily for 5 days did not result in statistically significant differences in either safety or markers of systemic inflammation compared to placebo, though we did not achieve our enrollment target of 60 patients. Trial registration This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as #NCT04497389 on 04/08/2020. …

Abstract Background Aberrant Wnt5a expression contributes to immunity, inflammation and tissue damage. However, it remains unknown whether Wnt5a is associated with liver injury in chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We aimed to explore the potential role of Wnt5a expression in liver injury caused by chronic HBV infection. Methods Wnt5a mRNA levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were analyzed in 31 acute-on-chronic hepatitis B liver failure (ACHBLF) patients, 82 chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients, and 20 healthy controls using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Intrahepatic Wnt5a protein expression from 32 chronic HBV infection patients and 6 normal controls was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining. Results Wnt5a mRNA expression was increased in CHB patients and ACHBLF patients compared to healthy controls and correlated positively with liver injury markers. Additionally, there was a significant correlation between Wnt5a mRNA expression and HBV DNA load in all patients and CHB patients but not in ACHBLF patients. Furthermore, intrahepatic Wnt5a protein expression was elevated in chronic HBV infection patients compared to that in normal controls. Moreover, chronic HBV infection patients with higher hepatic inflammatory grades had increased intrahepatic Wnt5a protein expression compared with lower hepatic inflammatory grades. In addition, the cut-off value of 12.59 for Wnt5a mRNA level was a strong indicator in predicting ACHBLF in CHB patients. Conclusions We found that Wnt5a expression was associated with liver injury in chronic HBV infection patients. Wnt5a might be involved in exacerbation of chronic HBV infection. …

Abstract Background HIV has become a manageable chronic condition due to the success and scale-up of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Globally, South Africa has the highest number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) and research evidence indicates that countries with the highest burden of PLHIV have a substantial burden of obesity, hypertension (HPT) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). We sought to summarize the burden of these three common NCDs among PLHIV in South Africa. Methods In this systematic review, multiple databases were searched for articles reporting on the prevalence of obesity, HPT, and T2D among PLHIV in South Africa published since journal inception until March 2022. A meta-analysis was conducted using random-effects models to obtain pooled prevalence estimates of the three NCDs. Heterogeneity was assessed using X2 test on Cochran’s Q statistic. Results We included 32 studies, with 19, 22 and 18 studies reporting the prevalence of obesity, HPT, and T2D among PLHIV, respectively. The overall prevalence of obesity, HPT, and T2D was 23.2% [95% CI 17.6; 29.9], 25.5% [95% CI 15.6; 38.7], and 6.1% [95% CI 3.8; 9.7] respectively. The prevalence of obesity was significantly higher among women (P = 0.034) compared to men, however the prevalence of HPT and T2D did not differ by sex. The prevalence of each of the three NCDs did not differ significantly between rural, urban, and peri-urban areas. The prevalence of obesity and T2D was higher in studies conducted between 2013 and 2022 compared to studies conducted between 2000 and 2012, while the prevalence of HPT was higher between 2000 and 2012 compared to between 2013 and 2022. Conclusions These findings suggest that South Africa is experiencing a syndemic of NCDs among people PLHIV highlighting the need to increase cost-effective interventions and management strategies that involve integrated HIV and NCD care in the South African setting. …

Abstract Background The characteristics of otological symptoms in patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection are lacking. Almost no research has been conducted to explore the emergence of otological symptoms after coronavirus disease 2019 infection. The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence and specific clinical characteristics of and risk factors for otological symptoms among patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods We included two groups to investigate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of otological symptoms among patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The first sample (S1) was drawn retrospectively from four communities via questionnaires, and the second sample (S2) from an outpatient clinic. Results A total of 189 participants were included in S1 (124 women [65.6%]; mean [standard deviation (SD)] age, 33.66 [13.56] years), and 47 in S2 (25 women [53.2%]; mean [SD] age, 45.28 [14.64] years). The most prevalent otological symptoms in S1 were dizziness (15.9%), tinnitus (7.9%), aural fullness (6.9%), otalgia (5.3%), hearing loss (1.6%), and otopyorrhoea (1.1%). Moreover, for each additional typical symptom of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the risk (odds ratio) of otological symptoms increased by 1.33 (95% confidence interval: 1.10–1.61, p = 0.003). The prevalence of aural fullness was higher in the unvaccinated group than that in the group receiving two or three vaccinations (p = 0.018). Conclusions Various otological symptoms may occur in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. The number of typical symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection is positively associated with the probability of otological symptoms. However, vaccination may reduce the probability of certain otological symptoms. …

Abstract Background Luteibacter jiangsuensis is a gram-negative aerobic bacillus that was first isolated from soil samples at a pesticide factory in China and reported in 2011. Here, we describe the first case of L. jiangsuensis infection in human. Case presentation A 59-year-old Japanese woman undergoing treatment for Crohn’s disease was admitted to our hospital with fever. Clinical examination indicated catheter-related bloodstream infection. The catheter was removed and meropenem was initiated. Morphologically identical glucose non-fermentative gram-negative bacilli were detected from two sets of aerobic blood culture and catheter-tip cultures. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry failed to identify the bacterium, which was later identified as L. jiangsuensis by 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. Antimicrobial susceptibility test revealed that the isolate was resistant to carbapenem, therefore meropenem was switched to intravenous levofloxacin (500 mg/day). After 14 days of treatment with levofloxacin, the patient was discharged. Conclusions This is the first case of L. jiangsuensis infection in human. The strain was identified by 16 S rRNA gene sequence analysis. …

Volume 15, Issue 1, December 2024 .

Tropical Medicine &International Health, EarlyView.

Tropical Medicine &International Health, EarlyView.

Abstract We used group-based trajectory models to identify four distinct trajectory patterns of adherence to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among 20,696 users. Only 44.5% were consistently PrEP adherent, with younger age, being female, or having substance use disorder or depression associated with early discontinuation. Public health efforts are needed to improve PrEP adherence.

Abstract We used group-based trajectory models to identify four distinct trajectory patterns of adherence to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among 20,696 users. Only 44.5% were consistently PrEP adherent, with younger age, being female, or having substance use disorder or depression associated with early discontinuation. Public health efforts are needed to improve PrEP adherence.

Journal of Medical Virology, Volume 95, Issue 12, December 2023.

Journal of Medical Virology, Volume 95, Issue 12, December 2023.

Journal of Medical Virology, Volume 95, Issue 12, December 2023.