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Independent association of weight-adjusted waist index with asthma in U.S. adolescents: Mediating roles of eosinophil percentage, total cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol

Background Obesity is a risk factor for asthma in adolescents. “Although body mass index (BMI) is the most widely used metric for assessing obesity, it has several limitations. The weight-adjusted waist index (WWI) is a novel central obesity indicator and accurately reflects body composition. We aimed to explore the association of WWI with asthma in adolescents using NHANES 1999–2020 data. Methods WWI was calculated based on waist circumference (cm) divided by the square root of weight (kg). Current asthma status in adolescents was determined based on participants’ self-reports. Multivariate logistic regression analysis, restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis, mediation analysis, and stratified analysis were used to comprehensively explore this association. Results A total of 15,796 adolescents were included. In the fully adjusted model, WWI was positively associated with current asthma in adolescents (odds ratio 1.252, 95% confidence interval 1.125–1.392, p = 0.0001). Participants in the highest WWI quartile (Q4) showed a 54.5% higher prevalence of asthma compared to Q1 (p for trend = 0.0007).. RCS modeling indicated that the association was linear. Mediation analyses indicated that blood eosinophil percentage (EOS%), total cholesterol (TC), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) partially mediated this association by 9.89% (p < 0.0001), 7.47% (p = 0.048), and 8.24% (p = 0.044), respectively. This association was independent of BMI, and BMI also did not significantly interact with this association (p for interaction = 0.682). Conclusions WWI was linearly and positively associated with the prevalence of current asthma among U.S. adolescents, independently of BMI. EOS%, TC, and HDL-C partially mediated this association.

Methodological establishment and diagnostic value of a multiplex fluorescent PCR assay for the detection of three fastidious respiratory pathogens

Background Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis are common fastidious bacteria responsible for respiratory tract infections, particularly in children and immunocompromised individuals. Due to their demanding growth requirements, traditional culture methods often yield low sensitivity and delayed results, posing challenges for early and accurate diagnosis. Objective To establish a TaqMan probe-based multiplex fluorescent PCR method for the simultaneous rapid detection and identification of three important respiratory fastidious pathogens: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis. Methods By designing and optimizing TaqMan probes and primers targeting Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis, the sensitivity, specificity, and reproducibility of the TaqMan probe-based multiplex fluorescent PCR assay were examined. A total of 173 clinical samples which are sputum and alveolar lavage fluid were tested simultaneously using traditional culture methods and multiplex fluorescent PCR assays, and the results were compared for consistency. For samples with inconsistent detection results, targeted high-throughput sequencing (tNGS) was used for confirmation. Results The limit of detection of the TaqMan probe-based multiplex fluorescent PCR method was 100 Copies/ml for Streptococcus pneumoniae, 20 Copies/ml for Haemophilus influenzae, and 50 Copies/ml for Moraxella catarrhalis. The detection rate of the multiplex fluorescent PCR method was in high concordance with traditional culture methods and tNGS in the 173 clinical samples (Kappa = 0.819). The multiplex fluorescent PCR method demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity, detecting more cases of mixed infections. Conclusion The multiplex fluorescent PCR method established in this study provides a powerful tool for rapid and accurate clinical detection of fastidious respiratory pathogens, with significant clinical application value and promotion prospects. This method offers substantial advantages over traditional culture methods in terms of detection speed and sensitivity, particularly in detecting mixed infections, and has significant potential for clinical application and widespread adoption.

Researchers in dismay as US exits world science body UNESCO … again

Accuracy assessment of digital impressions with varied scanning paths in partially edentulous ridges with mobile abutment teeth: An in vitro comparative study

Background Periodontal prosthesis or removable partial dentures are essential treatments for partially edentulous dentition with periodontal issues. This study aimed to assess the accuracy of digital impressions obtained through an intra-oral scanner, employing different scanning paths versus conventional impressions in partially edentulous ridges with mobile abutment teeth. Methods Eight lower Kennedy class I and class III models were employed as test models. The abutment teeth in these models were subjected to various mobility grades, according to the Miller classification. Reference data was generated by scanning the test models using an extra-oral laboratory scanner. An intra-oral scanner (TRIOS 4; V21; 3Shape A/S) was used to obtain ten digital impressions following two different scanning paths (Scan path A and Scan path B). For conventional impressions, two impression materials (Monophase polyether and Polyvinyl siloxane) were used to create ten impressions with a one-step technique. Working stone casts were produced and converted to digital data. Accuracy was assessed by analyzing the deviation between test data (digital and conventional data) and the reference data using 3D software (Geomagic Control X). The data was analysis using sequential tests, including two-way and one-way ANOVA, and paired t-tests (p < 0.05). Results Digital impressions obtained through an intra-oral scanner exhibited significantly higher accuracy. Within the digital impression category, those recommended by the manufacturer obtained using scan path A showed lower deviations than those acquired through scan path B. Considering the degree of tooth mobility, models with GII and GIII mobile RPD abutment teeth displayed significantly higher deviations (p < 0.001) than those with G0, GI across all impression techniques. The accuracy of conventional impressions with GII and GIII mobility was clinically unacceptable (deviation >200µm). Conclusion For partially edentulous cases with mobile abutment teeth, digital impressions exhibited superior accuracy for G0, GI. Following the manufacturer-recommended scanning protocol in scan path A can improve the accuracy of impressions. Furthermore, if there is persistent mobility, particularly in GII and GIII, the use of final conventional impressions is forbidden.

Methodology of community-based venous blood specimen collection for the harmonized diagnostic assessment of dementia for the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI-DAD): Wave 2

The prevalence of dementia is on the rise, with 60% of dementia cases existing in low- and middle-income countries. In India, the prevalence was reported to be 7.4%. Since the pathophysiology of dementia is multifactorial, the Harmonized Longitudinal Aging Study in India for the Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia (LASI-DAD) collected data to capture multiple domains, including venous blood specimens (VBS). VBS collection and assays help ascertain the overall health status of an individual, understand disease pathogenesis, and diagnose diseases. In community settings, blood assays also help identify disease trends. However, community VBS collections can often be challenging. Sample quality can be impaired due to individual, environmental, geographical, and pre-analytical processing factors. Therefore, standardization of the process is imperative to ensure biomarker data of high accuracy. LASI-DAD developed a systematic sample collection, shipment, processing, and storage protocol. Multiple checkpoints were in place to monitor sample quality in real time. A phlebotomist was trained from each participating state for specimen collection. All samples were centrally tested for analytes. The overall response rate for blood collection was 71.5%. We collected 17 mL of VBS from 3,252 respondents, who consented to participate. Blood samples were tested for routine analytes, and those specific to Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) and AD-related dementias (ADRD). Data was reviewed fortnightly. The median cold chain temperature was 6.2°C and hemolysis was seen in 6.7% of the samples. LASI-DAD standardized and implemented VBS collection while overcoming the challenges faced due to India’s diverse socio-demographic, geographical, and environmental conditions. This methodology can serve as a robust tool for VBS handling and ensuring high sample quality for future community-based studies.

Association between transfer for surgery and mortality and disability among neonates in high income countries—A systematic review with meta-analysis

Birthing in a hospital with on-site surgical facilities (co-located care) is considered preferable for neonates with surgical conditions. However, it may not always be feasible. Whether transfer of surgical neonates from birth hospital to a surgical facility affects the outcomes of this cohort is unclear. We conducted a systematic review to investigate the association of birth location/transfer with all-cause mortality and disability among neonates with congenital/acquired surgical conditions. Data Sources from PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched till December 2024. Studies from high-income countries (HICs) comparing infants transferred to a surgical center for surgery versus infants born and operated in a co-located care facility were included. Random effects model was used for meta-analysis. The quality of studies and certainty of evidence were assessed using Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the GRADE framework respectively. The primary outcomes of interest were all-cause mortality and neurodevelopmental impairment at latest follow up. A total of 61 studies from 20 HICs were included. Compared to co-located care, transfer for surgery did not increase the odds of risk-adjusted and crude mortality in neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia [adjusted odds ratio (aOR):0.86 (0.49 to 1.49), 5 studies, 8366 infants; crude OR:0.68 (0.51 to 0.91, i.e., decreased mortality), 22 studies, 12970 infants], critical congenital heart disease [aOR:0.79 (0.42 to 1.48), 3 studies, 13485 infants; OR:1.04 (0.66 to 1.64), 10 studies, 14447 infants], surgical necrotizing enterocolitis [aOR:0.99 (0.61 to 1.61), 4 studies, 5891 infants; OR:1.03 (0.64 to 1.65), 5 studies, 5915 infants], gastroschisis [aOR:1.07 (0.68 to 1.68), 2 studies, 5294 infants; OR:0.80 (0.48 to 1.35), 11 studies, 8708 infants], tracheo-oesophageal fistula [aOR:0.97 (0.39 to 2.39), 1 study, 937 infants; OR:0.62 (0.37 to 1.04), 4 studies, 4050 infants], congenital or perinatal intestinal conditions [OR:2.69 (0.26 to 28.34), 4 studies, 1799 infants]. Neurodevelopmental outcomes between the groups were comparable in the three studies that reported this outcome. Whilst many included studies were of good quality, certainty of evidence was very low due to their observational design and heterogeneity. In conclusion, transfer of neonates from the birth hospital to another facility for surgical intervention was not associated with increased risk of mortality or disability. The evidence from this comprehensive meta-analysis would be useful for clinicians, parents and health policy makers. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD 42024565651.

Comparative analysis of Egypt’s malaria elimination strategies and implementation science: Pathways to achieve malaria-free status for other African countries

Background Malaria elimination is a critical public health goal, particularly in Africa, where the disease disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. Egypt’s success in achieving World Health Organization (WHO) malaria-free certification on October 20, 2024, through an evidence-based malaria elimination program, offers a valuable model for replication. Our study is identified as an implementation study, evaluating the evidence-based interventions deployed, the implementation strategy tested, and its outcomes to provide insights for scaling similar programs across Africa. A RE-AIM-informed lens was applied to better articulate how contextual factors, intervention reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance influenced observed outcomes. Methods We adopted a retrospective implementation science approach to analyze Egypt’s malaria elimination program. The implementation strategy focused on high-priority malaria-endemic regions, targeting vulnerable groups such as children under five and pregnant women. Interventions included vector control measures, such as insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), indoor residual spraying (IRS), antimalarial treatment protocols, and public health education campaigns. Key implementation strategies included workforce training, multilevel stakeholder engagement, integrated data-driven decision-making, and community mobilization. Our study evaluated key implementation outcomes, including fidelity, feasibility, acceptability (measured using a custom-designed tool assessing stakeholder and community perceptions of the interventions), and adaptability alongside health outcomes such as incidence reduction, treatment coverage, and community awareness. Economic evaluations and process analyses provided additional insights into cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency. Results The implementation strategy targeted malaria-endemic regions, achieving a 92% recruitment rate, focusing on vulnerable groups such as children under five (37%) and pregnant women (12%). 78% of the recipient population adhered to preventive measures like insecticide-treated nets (ITNs). The program reduced malaria incidence by 96% over 15 years and achieved a 94% reduction in Anopheles mosquito density. Active surveillance led to the detection of 98% of cases within 48 hours of symptom onset, while treatment coverage reached 91%. Community awareness of malaria prevention increased to 84% by the program’s conclusion. Economic evaluations revealed a cost per disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted of $24, with an estimated $1.5 billion saved in healthcare costs and productivity losses over 15 years. Sub-group analyses highlighted higher adherence rates in urban areas (89%) compared to rural areas (73%) and significant reductions in malaria-related complications among pregnant women (78%). Implementation outcomes included high fidelity (93%) to planned strategies, high feasibility across urban and rural contexts, and successful adaptability to emerging challenges such as insecticide resistance and funding fluctuations. Routine monitoring systems, continuous feedback loops, and responsive adaptation mechanisms were central to achieving these outcomes. Acceptability scores averaged 87% across stakeholders, reflecting strong alignment with community values, trust in health authorities, and perceived relevance of interventions. Conclusion Egypt’s malaria elimination strategies exemplify the effective integration of implementation science into public health programs. Key success factors included community engagement, robust surveillance systems, and cost-effective resource allocation. The intentional use of implementation strategies and documented outcomes demonstrate alignment with the RE-AIM framework, reinforcing the program’s relevance for broader application. Future efforts should emphasize tailored interventions, capacity building, transparent assessment of acceptability, and sustainable funding mechanisms to replicate Egypt’s success.

Crystal structure of the fungal mannosyltransferase Och1 reveals active site primed for N-glycan binding

The outermost layer of a fungi’s cell wall serves as the organism’s point of first contact with its environment, or host. Heavily glycosylated glycoproteins anchor a complex meshwork of branching mannose chains, forming the outer cell wall layer in most yeast and mold species. Outer mannan chains are composed of large polymannose branching glycans attached to the universal eukaryotic N-glycan GlcNAc2Man8 core. Synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum, the core N-glycan is transferred to the Golgi apparatus, where the first fungi-specific reaction takes place. In the cis-Golgi, Och1 (Outer chain elongation 1) plays a central role in initiating outer mannan cell wall synthesis by transferring a single α-1,6-mannose residue to the N-GlcNAc2Man8 core. Playing a vital role in fungal biology, fungal cell wall synthesis proteins have long since been thought as attractive options in the search for a fungi-specific drug target. Saccharomyces cerevisiae Δ52-Och1 was expressed in Pichia pastoris. Here, the first X-ray crystal structure of a fungal Och1 protein is reported, determined to 2.0 Å. Molecular modeling of ligand binding and sequence analysis has revealed a highly conserved substrate binding site, rationalizing Och1 target specificity for the N-GlcNAc2Man8 glycan.

Triassic diapsid shows early diversification of skin appendages in reptiles

Psychometric properties of the smartphone addiction scale-short version (SAS-SV) in Honduran university students

Problematic smartphone use (PSU) is a global issue associated with numerous adverse outcomes, especially among young people. One of the most widely used instruments to evaluate PSU is the Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version (SAS-SV). This study examined the psychometric properties of the Spanish version of the SAS-SV, including factorial validity, convergent validity, divergent validity, and reliability. The final sample comprised 530 students from a university in Honduras. Confirmatory factor analysis provided evidence supporting the validity of the instrument’s internal structure. Reliability was estimated using McDonald’s omega and Cronbach’s alpha coefficients. Convergent validity was assessed through correlations with problematic Internet use, depression, anxiety, and stress. Measurement invariance tests were conducted across sex and age categories. The results indicated that the SAS-SV adequately fits a one-dimensional, reliable model and demonstrated measurement equivalence across groups of sex and age. Finally, the SAS-SV demonstrated a strong correlation with problematic Internet use, depression, anxiety, and stress. These findings support the SAS-SV as a valid and reliable instrument for examining PSU among university students in Honduras.

Promoting caste equality in the labor market: The role of self-confidence

We study how people perceive the self-confidence of individuals from different castes in India. In an experimental Indian labor market where employers and workers belong to different castes, employers evaluate worker resumes to predict the future productivity of workers who perform a real effort task. The baseline group uses resumes that reveal a productivity signal i.e.- performance in a practice task and caste information, while the treatment group receives an additional measure of worker self-confidence. We find that employers in both groups exhibit a discriminatory wage differential against lower caste workers. However, employers in the treatment group weigh lower caste workers’ self-confidence more heavily than that of higher caste workers. This differential effect of confidence compensates for the lower evaluation and hence wage given to lower caste workers due to discrimination. From a policy perspective, these findings highlight the importance of non-cognitive skill training, such as training sessions for employment interviews where applicants can signal their self-confidence through interaction with employers.

Study protocol: Feasibility of medically tailored meals for pediatric populations at risk for disparities in serious illness outcomes due to inequities in food-related social drivers of health (MTM-Kids)

Background Food and nutrition insecurity are actionable, clinically relevant social determinants of health that disproportionately affect pediatric populations, particularly those with serious illnesses, including cancer. Lack of consistent access to nutritious food contributes to poorer treatment tolerance, increased infection risk, lower quality of life, and worsened long-term health outcomes. Medically-tailored meals (MTM) have shown promise in improving health outcomes in adults with diet-sensitive conditions, but their feasibility and acceptability in pediatric populations remain unexplored. The Medically Tailored Meals for Pediatric Populations at Risk for Disparities in Serious Illness Outcomes due to Inequities in Food-Related Social Drivers of Health (MTM-Kids) study aims to assess feasibility of providing medically tailored meals to adolescents undergoing cancer treatment, with a focus on recruitment, retention, parental cost-coping, and preliminary impact on food-related insecurities,. Materials and methods This study will enroll 15 adolescent-parent dyads from a pediatric oncology clinic. Participants will receive weekly deliveries of up to 10 frozen medically tailored meals over a 12-week intervention period. Feasibility will be assessed based on recruitment, retention, and adherence to study requirements. Acceptability and appropriateness of the intervention will be evaluated using surveys and semi-structured interviews conducted at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes include changes in household food insecurity, financial burden, and parental time demands as well as reported meal satisfaction and chemotherapy-related taste alterations. Quantitative data will be analyzed descriptively, and qualitative data will undergo thematic analysis. Discussion The study will provide critical insights into the feasibility of implementing medically tailored meals for pediatric oncology and other patients. Findings will inform the design of a future randomized controlled trial assessing the efficacy of MTM in improving nutritional status, treatment outcomes, and overall well-being in this vulnerable population. MTM-Kids may serve as a scalable intervention to address health disparities related to food insecurity in pediatric populations with serious illness. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06814795

Health insurance non-enrollment among women in Sierra Leone: A cross-sectional analysis of the 2019 Demographic and Health Survey

Background Health insurance enrollment is a vital component of universal health coverage and access to essential healthcare services. However, in Sierra Leone, enrollment remains persistently low, posing a major public health challenge. Women of reproductive age (15–49 years) represent a critical population for health insurance enrollment due to their unique healthcare needs, particularly related to reproductive health, pregnancy, and childcare. Despite their importance, women face notable barriers to health insurance enrollment, including financial constraints, gender inequalities, and sociocultural challenges. This study examines the factors associated with health insurance non-enrollment among women aged 15–49 in Sierra Leone. Methods We analysed data from a weighted sample of 15,574 women aged 15–49 years from the 2019 Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey. Percentages were used to present the proportion of health insurance non-enrollment among the women. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was used to examine the factors associated with health insurance non-enrollment among the women. Results The proportion of health insurance non-enrollment among the women was 96.02%. Women with higher education were less likely to be uninsured (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.18–0.64) compared to those with no education. Being employed also reduced the odds of being uninsured (aOR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.36–0.62) compared to women who were employed. Listening to the radio less than once a week was associated with lower odds of being uninsured (aOR: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.53–0.97) compared to women who did not listen to the radio at all. On the other hand, women who reported distance to a health facility as a big problem were more likely to be uninsured (aOR: 2.21, 95% CI: 1.03–4.75) compared to those who did not consider it a problem. Regionally, women living in the Northwestern (aOR: 0.07, 95% CI: 0.03–0.14) and Northern (aOR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.12–0.66) regions were less likely to be uninsured compared to those residing in the Eastern region. Conclusions Health insurance non-enrollment was high among women in Sierra Leone. Education, employment, and exposure to listening to the radio were associated with increased health insurance enrollment, highlighting the need to address socioeconomic barriers and leveraging mass media campaigns to educate women on the importance of getting covered by health insurance. Geographic and regional disparities in health insurance enrollment underscore the importance of improving healthcare accessibility and implementing targeted, community-based interventions to promote health insurance uptake. Also, subsiding health insurance subscription fee could increase its enrollment, especially among women from low socioeconomic households.

Expression of Concern: HIF-1 inhibition reverses opacity in a rat model of galactose-induced cataract

Trypanosoma vivax elicits both Th1 and Th2 immunological responses in experimentally infected cattle

Bovine trypanosomosis caused by Trypanosoma vivax is a health problem of economic importance in South America. In Ecuador, the presence of T. vivax was first reported in 2018; however, the isolates found in Ecuador are still being studied, mainly on issues related to virulence, pathogenicity, and immune response. To this end, this study aimed to evaluate the cellular and humoral adaptive immune response in vivo in experimentally infected cattle with T. vivax. The study lasted 42 days (with samples collected twice weekly) and was conducted in two cattle experimentally infected with an isolate of T. vivax circulating in Ecuador (TvET1) and two uninfected cattle as controls. Parasitemia was determined by the Brener method and relative gene expression (RGE) of six cytokines was evaluated by RT-qPCR to determine the Th1 response (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-12) and the Th2 response (IL-4 and IL-10). Additionally, the total IgG and the IgG1 (Th2) and IgG2 (Th1) subclasses levels were measured using an in-house iELISA. During the study, the animals exhibited four parasitemia peaks concomitant with the cytokines IFN-γ and IL-10. These cytokines, like TNF-α, showed a significant RGE increase (p < 0.05) in infected animals. The presence of total IgG, IgG1 and IgG2 was significant (p < 0.05) in infected animals, and presented a solid monotonic relationship over time. The predominant immunoglobulin subclass was IgG1, and we found that this response was similar to the total IgG. The present study allowed us to highlight the Th response of cattle to T. vivax infection, which is polarized into both a Th1 and a Th2 response. This information contributes to understanding the host-pathogen interaction with strains circulating in Ecuador. The thoroughness of our study can provide the needed knowledge to develop new diagnostic tests and even possible alternatives for vaccine development.

Adaptation and validation of the modified weight bias internalization scale (WBIS-M) in Brazilian adults

Internalized weight stigma refers to individuals’ self-stigmatization, leading to self-devaluation. This research aimed to conduct an adaptation and validation study of the Modified Weight Bias Internalization Scale (WBIS-M) for Brazil. A sample of 418 adults (253 women; mean age = 30.8 years, SD = 10.4) completed the WBIS-M and measures of anti-fat attitudes, body image, disordered eating, binge eating, and self-esteem. Exploratory factor analyses (EFA) and confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) were conducted to examine the factor structure of the WBIS-M. Measurement invariance across gender was tested with multigroup CFA. Internal consistency was assessed using omega and alpha. Relationships between the WBIS-M scores and external measures were analyzed using Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlations, t-tests, and Cohen’s d for effect size. EFA and CFA showed that the 10-item and 1-factor WBIS-M model fit reasonably well (CFI and TLI ≥ .98, SRMR ≤ .06, although RMSEA ≤ .12). Full metric and full scalar invariance evidenced equivalence across genders. The internal consistency reliability coefficients were satisfactory (α and ω = .94). A higher WBIS-M score was linked to greater body dissatisfaction, restrictive/compensatory behaviors, food/weight concerns, binge eating severity, and lower self-esteem. Women and those with a higher BMI had higher WBIS-M scores. Finally, the Brazilian WBIS-M’s 10-item score is a valid and reliable measure for assessing weight self-stigma in adults.

Rumble in the Miocene: terror bird versus caiman

National and sub-national sero-epidemiology of immunoglobulin G against SARS-CoV-2 in Iran in 2021

Multiple factors challenge PCR test results for COVID-19 infection, and only symptomatic cases have been tested. Thus, a population-based seroprevalence study was necessary to determine the extent of missed cases. The objective of this study was to achieve a realistic infection rate in Iran and probe into some explanations behind being infected or not. In this population-based cross-sectional study, 16,610 adults aged more than 25 with valid serology sample results from 31 provinces from February to April 2021 were included. According to the ELISA kits based on the N antigen of SARS-CoV-2, the seroprevalence of IgG against SARS-CoV-2 in Iran was 20.63% (19.71–21.56) and 16.25% (15.11–17.41) based on two different corrections. The age-standardized seroprevalence was relatively high among Kurdistan [30.29% (26.04–34.55) and 28.31% (23–33.61)] and West Azarbayejan [29.33% (24.85–33.8) and 27.11% (21.52–32.68)]. Smoking, higher education, being underweight, male, and single were protective factors, and higher daily interactions was a risk for seropositivity. It is evident that reported infection rates have been misleading. Furthermore, several intervenable factors can predict the risk of infection.

Temporal phenotyping of neutrophils in post-cardiac arrest syndrome and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation-assisted resuscitation: A pilot study

The role of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the immune response during cardiac arrest, as well as the role of the innate immune system—particularly neutrophils—in the pathophysiology of post-cardiac arrest syndrome, remains underexplored. This study aimed to comprehensively analyze the immune response in the pathology of post-cardiac arrest syndrome. This study included eight patients who experienced cardiogenic cardiopulmonary arrest and were treated for at least 1 week. Blood samples were collected immediately after the return of spontaneous circulation (day 0), as well as on days 1, 3, and 7. These patients formed the post-cardiac arrest syndrome group, and blood samples from five healthy volunteers served as controls. Neutrophil function over time was analyzed using CyTOF ® mass cytometry. Furthermore, patients in the post-cardiac arrest syndrome group were divided into extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and non-extracorporeal membrane oxygenation groups according to whether they received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation during resuscitation. Cytokine levels were compared between the two groups using LUMINEX ® . Three patients with post-cardiac arrest syndrome underwent extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Compared with the control group, the post-cardiac arrest syndrome group showed fewer CD177-negative neutrophils and fewer strongly leukotriene B4 receptor 1-positive neutrophils. The extracorporeal membrane oxygenation group had more CD177-negative neutrophils and fewer CD16-seropositive neutrophils than the non-extracorporeal membrane oxygenation group. Differences in serum cytokine levels between the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and non-extracorporeal membrane oxygenation groups were noted, with certain cytokines, including interleukin-6 and interleukin-8, decreasing over time only in the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation group. As the first in-depth immunological investigation of post-cardiac arrest syndrome, including neutrophil phenotyping, this study may inform clinical practices related to patient management and treatment strategies following cardiac arrest.

Implementation of a clinical interview guide to Multidimensional needs assessment in Palliative care (MAP): A multicenter mixed-methods feasibility study

Background A recent systematic review highlighted the lack of consensus on the needs that should be assessed in palliative care to develop the initial therapeutic plan. An agreed clinical interview guide for Multidimensional needs Assessment in Palliative Care (MAP) has recently been proposed. Objective To evaluate the feasibility of implementing the MAP guide in clinical practice. Methods A multicenter explanatory sequential mixed-methods feasibility study was conducted, assessing five indicators: a) acceptability to patients and family members (assessed by phone); b) participation (proportion of eligible patients assessed); c) applicability (time to administer); d) clinical utility as perceived by physicians; and e) implementation in practice. Twenty-four palliative care physicians across 10 services (outpatient, in-patient, domiciliary care) administered the MAP guide in 239 initial assessments of patients with advanced cancer. A focus group was conducted with 17 of the physicians to gather insights. Results Indicators of acceptability, participation, applicability, and perceived clinical utility were fulfilled in over 90% of interviews. Implementation fell just short of the criterion (78% of needs assessed vs. 80% threshold). Patients and families provided highly positive feedback on the appropriateness of the MAP guide. Physicians found it flexible and easy to integrate into clinical practice, helping them structure the initial assessment and offer a much more comprehensive assessment of patients’ needs. Conclusions The study supports the feasibility of using the MAP guide to explore palliative care needs. The MAP guide can help ensure that professionals do not overlook unmet needs, which could increase suffering and undermine quality of life.