Proper Collection Research Articles

E-Waste Challenges in India: Environmental and Human Health Impacts

E-waste, or electronic waste, refers to discarded electronic devices and components, and the management of e-waste has become a newly arising and challenging issue both in India and globally. Due to the increase in population, urbanization, global demand, and expansion of the digital infrastructure, generation of electronic waste is increasing annually. This study provides a comprehensive and thoroughly reviewed qualitative study on electronic waste management practice. This study highlights an outline of the amount of electronic waste generation in India and the world and examines prevailing approaches in the treatment and management of electronic waste, including unsafe informal recycling and inadequate inventory control. This article focuses on major problems such as child labor, illegal dumping, poor infrastructure, limited knowledge and awareness among the public inadequate legal regulation, and spillage of various toxic heavy metals such as arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), and barium (Ba) via electronic waste. This study analyzes the harmful effects of toxic heavy metals, such as arsenic and mercury, on environmental quality and human well-being. To address these issues, this study outlines various sustainable recommendations, such as technology improvement proper collection; handling, management, and eradication of waste generated by electrical equipment in formal recycling practices; the 3Rs (reduce, reuse, and recycle) following circular economy practice, including collaboration between governmental, non-governmental, business, industries, and civil society; better legislative measures such as extended producer responsibility (EPR) and a single approach method, where collecting, sorting, and dismantling electronic waste is handled by the informal sector, while the formal sector manages extraction of metal, disposal, and recycling.

Establishment of In-vitro Cell Cultures Using Patient-derived Ascitic or Pleural Fluid from Cancer Patients

Introduction: Cell culture refers to laboratory techniques that enable the In-vitro growth of any kind of cells under physiological conditions. It has tremendous usage in biomedical and clinical research. Ascitic fluid and pleural fluid from cancer patients are excellent sources for cell culture to study metastatic cancers, tumor microenvironments, growth patterns, drug resistance, radiosensitivity, etc. Purpose: Primary aim of the study was to successfully establish In-vitro cell cultures using patient-derived ascitic or pleural fluid from cancer patients of Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, India. Main objective of the study was to check and describe initial cell count (seeding density), average adherence time, morphology of cells, proliferation rate, etc. Methods: Ascitic or pleural fluid samples were collected from 20 cancer patients. After following proper methodologies, 12 successful cultures were taken into consideration. Proper storage and data collection were done simultaneously. Cell block review or fluid cytology reports were also taken to analyze the results properly. Results: In 12 different cultures, only adherence time were quite similar. The seeding densities, proliferation rates, doubling times, etc., were different for different patient samples. Malignancies, N:C ratios, and metastatic conditions were totally different for different cultures. In all cases, results of cultures were similar to the original patient. Conclusion: Our primary and initial data motivate and support us to carry out further research on cell culture and cancer biology to identify drug action mechanisms, drug resistance, radiosensitivity evaluation, etc.

Assessing the adequacy of blood culture collection in patients aged 80 years or older.

Assessing the adequacy of blood culture collection in patients aged 80 years or older.

24-hour Urine Metabolic Profile: Collection Technique and Procedure, Reference Values

Urolithiasis is one of the leading urological diseases in terms of prevalence, frequency of requests for medical care, and hospitalization. Prevalence rates of urolithiasis range from 1 to 20%. In countries with a high standard of living, such as Sweden, Canada, or the United States, the prevalence of urolithiasis exceeds 10%. All patients with at least one documented case of kidney stone formation should be informed about the importance of 24-hour urinalysis, traditionally called salt transport in Ukraine. The European Association of Urology (EAU) and the American Urological Association (AUA) guidelines for urolithiasis mention the following tests for a complete assessment of metabolic status: tests of serum creatinine, uric acid (UA), calcium, sodium, potassium, C-reactive protein, chloride, intact parathyroid hormone, and 24-hour urinalysis which includes calcium, oxalate, citrate, UA, phosphate, sulfate, sodium, potassium, cystine, magnesium, and pH. It is important to emphasize proper collection technique to patients. During urine collection, the patient should follow his or her usual fluid and dietary regimen. It is recommended that the test be performed in a laboratory that performs numerous salt transport tests on a regular basis, as quality control measures will usually be better and the time from sample collection to complete results will be shorter. Urine crystallization is a complex process. The degree of supersaturation of the urine with certain substances is an important indicator for assessing the risk of stone formation, but the crystallization process depends not only on the concentration of stone forming ions, but also on the amount of chelating agents. The 24-hour urine metabolic profile (salt transport) is an integral part of the examination of a patient with urolithiasis and crystalluria, which provides information on the excretion of certain substances, which allows to develop a personalized program of dietary measures and metaphylaxis, and prevent the development of cardio-reno-metabolic complications.

A circular economy based nonlinear corrugated waste management system using Fermatean bipolar hesitant fuzzy logic

In the era of increasing environmental awareness, the importance of efficient waste management cannot be overstated. Cardboard stands out among the many materials contributing to waste generation. With proper cardboard collection and recycling practices, one can make a significant difference and lead the way towards a more sustainable future. In this regard, this article attempts to configure an integrated green non-linear transportation system with circular economy approach to mitigate the negative effect of corrugated waste on social, economic and environmental sites. This non-linear transportation system aims to optimize objectives including overall transport expenditure, carbon footprints and travel time. One sub model is further developed from the proposed model by disuniting the effect of the circular economy. Here, to depict the uncertainty time sequential Fermatean bipolar hesitant fuzzy set theory is devised along with its all-dimensional aspects. The suggested transportation system is addressed by employing two approaches, weighted sum approach and global criterion methodology. Additionally, a case study is conducted to elaborate on the relevance of the devised model for sustainable management of corrugated waste. The results show that global criterion approach produces better results when three objectives are optimally valued as . The results indicate that the integration of circular economy into a supply chain model brings sustainability and reduces the ecological and human hazards associated with it. Finally, there is a sensitivity analysis, management insights, and a conclusion with limitations and future plans.

The Prevalence and Predictors of Improper Sharps Collection Practices Among People With Diabetes in Saudi Arabia.

Diabetes treatment requires the use of medical sharps for glycemic control. Improper sharps collection and disposal poses substantial threats to people with diabetes (PWD), health care professionals, the environment, and public health. To identify the prevalence and predictors of improper sharps collection practices among PWD in Saudi Arabia. We surveyed 288 PWD at King Saud University Diabetes Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from September to October 2021. We asked questions about demographics, diabetes history, sharps collection practices, and prior education on proper sharps collection practices. We defined "proper sharps collection" as: using a designated sharps disposal container or homemade sealed container to collect sharps. Of the PWD surveyed, 60% were women, 54% were ≥35 years old, and 53% had type 1 diabetes. Most respondents (80% and 72%) reported improper collection of needles and lancets, respectively. Approximately, 56% of needle users and 61% of lancet users reported that they had never received instructions on safe sharps disposal. Receiving education on safe sharps disposal practices was associated with a 66% reduction in the risk of improper sharps collection practices (odds ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 0.34 [0.16-0.68]) after adjusting for age, gender, type and duration of diabetes, income, education, and nationality of the study participants. Among those who improperly dispose their needles, 67% thought their sharps collection practices were appropriate. Our findings highlight the high prevalence of unsafe sharps collection practices among PWD in Saudi Arabia, and how prior education on safe sharps collection practices can help address this environmental and public health threat. Policies to reduce diabetes-related waste, unify the approach to proper sharps collection and disposal, and promote safe disposal education are needed to achieve a sustainable and safe waste management system.

A single microfluidic device for multi-omics analysis sample preparation.

Combining different "omics" approaches, such as genomics and proteomics, is necessary to generate a detailed and complete insight into microbiome comprehension. Proper sample collection and processing and accurate analytical methods are crucial in generating reliable data. We previously developed the ChipFilter device for proteomic analysis of microbial samples. We have shown that this device coupled to LC-MS/MS can successfully be used to identify microbial proteins. In the present work, we have developed our workflow to analyze concomitantly proteins and nucleic acids from the same sample. We performed lysis and proteolysis in the device using cultures of E. coli, B. subtilis, and S. cerevisiae. After peptide recovery for LC-MS/MS analysis, DNA from the same samples was recovered and successfully amplified by PCR for the 3 species. This workflow was further extended to a complex microbial mixture of known compositions. Protein analysis was carried out, enabling the identification of more than 5000 proteins. The recovered DNA was sequenced, performing comparable to DNA extracted with a commercial kit without proteolysis. Our results show that the ChipFilter device is suited to prepare samples for parallel proteomic and genomic analyses, which is particularly relevant in the case of low-abundant samples and drastically reduces sampling bias.

Fabrication and characterization of Cu (In, Ga) Se2 thin films by electrodeposition: optimization of the thermal treatment with selenium and mechanical disturbance technique

The evaporation technique fabricates solar cells using the Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS) absorber. This technique has strong limitations in preparing this absorber in a large area, necessitating the electrodeposition technique. However, the morphology and crystallinity of this absorber need to be sufficiently adequate to guarantee proper collection of charge carriers since a cauliflower-type growth is favored. This underscores the need for modifications during the synthesis, thermal treatments, and post-synthesis to improve the morphology and crystallinity, a complex and significant aspect of our research. This work discusses the structural, atomic composition, morphological, and optical results obtained for samples of CIGS films synthesized by the electrodeposition technique. We proudly report that we achieved the best atomic composition, close to the ideal and an adequate morphology, by selenizing the samples with 30 mg and a temperature of 570°C. This success was further enhanced by subjecting these films to constant periodic movement during their synthesis, leading to significant improvements in the crystallinity, a testament to the success of our research.

P-2094. Difference in Detection Rates of Coagulase-negative Staphylococci between BACTECTM FX (BD) and BACT/ALERT® VIRTUO® (bioMérieux)

Abstract Background Blood cultures (BCxs) with skin flora make interpretation of results difficult, impacting patient (pt) care on multiple levels. OhioHealth (OH), a large health care system in central Ohio, transitioned from BACTECTM FX (BD) to a new BCx detection system, BACT/ALERT® VIRTUO® (bioMérieux) in September 2022 and an increase in coagulase negative staphylococci (CoNS) isolates was noted. We compared detection rates of the most common contaminant, CoNS, between two BCx systems during 3 month pre-and post-implementation periods (March-May 2022 and March-May 2023). Methods BCx contamination rates were defined as CoNS in 1/2 sets as per microbiology laboratory standard procedures, or clinically as CoNS in 2/2 sets drawn simultaneously from the same site without signs/symptoms of infection. Pts were excluded if: i) pathogenic organisms were identified in prior BCxs (within 1 week of CoNS) or, ii) any organism other than CoNS was present in the same set. Pure CoNS BCxs were then assessed for number of sets positive (POS) on initial collection and follow up BCxs obtained after the first POS set with CoNS. Results From March-May 2022, 23,440 sets were collected with overall positivity rate of 9.5% (2,219 sets). CoNS was identified in 2% of total POS (465 sets). Of those, 244 pts had 1/2 initial sets POS resulting in 28% (69 pts) with redraws. In March-May 2023, 25,314 sets were collected with overall positivity rate of 10.1% (2,564 sets). CoNS was identified in 2.6% of total POS (657 sets). Of those, 364 pts had 1/2 initial sets POS with 37.9% (138 pts) with redraws. Pre-implementation, 55 pts had 2/2 sets POS for CoNS, and 5 pts grew the same organism on redraw. Post-implementation, 78 pts had 2/2 sets POS for CoNS, and 13 pts grew the same organism on redraw. Both periods had similar rates of 2/2 CoNS POS sets drawn simultaneously (72% and 70.5% respectively). Conclusion Increased rates of CoNS were detected after transition to the VIRTUO® system, including 1/2 POS sets, resulting in increased follow up cultures. Simultaneously timed sets of BCxs 2/2 POS with CoNS made interpretation of contamination difficult, highlighting the need for education on proper BCx collection techniques, including separate time/site draws to clinically assess true contamination events. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures

Mitigating Air Pollution and Protecting Public Health: Analyzing the Impact of National Clean Air Programme in Kota, Rajasthan

The clean air plan in India involves a set of rules, policies, and initiatives targeted at improving the air quality and public health by way of decreasing emissions from various sources. The study aims to evaluate the impact of National Clean Air Program (NCAP) on lowering air pollution levels and improving public health outcomes in Kota city, Rajasthan, highlighting progress, challenges, and the need for sustained emission control efforts. Kota's selection for this study highlights its significance as an educational hub, attracting students from all over India. The rapid population growth and increased vehicle emissions in the city cause adverse impacts on air quality. Improving air quality will not only enhance the health of residents and students but also contribute to a more conducive learning environment. The action plan of NCAP involves enforcing the construction and demolition waste management rules 2016, implementing emission control measures like water sprinkling and covered transport for construction activities, and extensive campaigns against open burning of biomass and waste. It also includes regular checks on industrial emissions, proper waste collection and disposal, and mandatory green belt development in residential areas. It employs a mixed-method approach, combining air quality monitoring data collected from the Central and State Pollution Control Boards from 2014 to 2023. It also examines trends in key pollutants, including NO2, SO2, and PM10, and analyzes the effect of regulatory measures such as emission controls and waste management rules. The study reveals a decreasing trend in NO2 (nitrogen dioxide) levels in Kota city, Rajasthan from 35.35 µg/m³ to 29.90 µg/m³ during 2014 to 2023, showing a significant drop during the COVID-19 lockdown. Similarly, PM10 (particulate matter) levels peaked at 153.28 µg/m³ in 2018 but saw a significant reduction to104.80 µg/m³ by 2020, indicating an improvement in air quality. However, SO2 (sulfur dioxide) concentrations slightly increased in 2019-2023 compared to 2014-2018. The air quality index (AQI) improved modestly but frequently surpassed 100, indicating hazardous air quality for vulnerable populations. The study concludes that while the NCAP in India has significantly improved air quality, challenges remain, with NO2 levels rebounding post-COVID-19 lockdown and persistent high particulate matter levels. It is recommended to ensure stricter enforcement of emission control measures, enhanced monitoring systems, and public awareness campaigns. Future work should focus on the long-term health impacts of particulate matter and strategies to achieve sustained air quality improvements in high-risk regions.

Factores de riesgo asociados a la contaminación de hemocultivos en pacientes adultos y pediátricos: una revisión bibliográfica

Introduction: bloodstream infections are one of the leading causes of mortality in children and adults worldwide. Blood cultures are essential diagnostic tests for identifying microorganisms and guiding antimicrobial treatment. However, sample contamination reduces diagnostic accuracy due to the introduction of contaminating organisms during sample collection or the patient's clinical condition.Methods: a systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines on studies found in PubMed, Scielo, Scopus, Web of Science, and BVS, including a total of 19 studies.Results: after reviewing the 19 studies, detailed information was gathered on a standardized protocol for the proper collection of blood samples for blood cultures in adult and pediatric patients. Additionally, internal and external risk factors associated with specimen contamination were analyzed. Some of these factors included the severity of the patient's condition, the immune system, the use of invasive devices, skin antisepsis, technical difficulties, or high workload.Conclusions: this research highlights the importance of rigorous implementation of standardized procedures to minimize risk factors associated with blood culture contamination and, consequently, the prevention of unnecessary treatments.

Mpox Specimen Collection, Storage, Preparation, and Laboratory Diagnostics by PCR.

During the 2022 and ongoing mpox outbreak, PCR diagnostics were already within the Laboratory Response Network (LRN) laboratories and additionally rapidly deployed to detect monkeypox (mpox) virus in patients and aid in accurate diagnosis. This accuracy is dependent on proper collection, shipment, and adherence to PCR procedure. This book chapter discusses effective collection, storage, and transportation for a real-time PCR to detect monkeypox virus nucleic acid.

The Challenges of Conducting Experimental Research on Live-Communication

Technological and social developments foster the implementation of digital and hybrid live-communication. The COVID-19 pandemic only accelerated the digitalization processes. Experiments are the proper data collection methods to investigate the effects of digital live-communication. However, there are challenges of conducting experimental research on digital and hybrid live-communication during business-to-business events. In these research notes, some of those challenges were pointed out with the aim of supporting future researchers who work on the effects of digital and hybrid live-communication. In particular the balance between internal and external validity has to be considered when conducting experiments. Digital tools can contribute to accurate data collection and analysis. Experiments need to consider ethical aspects.

Impact of Improper Waste Disposal on Surface and Ground Water

Pollution in water occurs when harmful substance (often chemicals or biological) contaminate streams, river, lakes, oceans or other bodies of water, degrading water quality and rendering it unhealthy to humans, animal and the environment. The widespread problem of water pollution is jeopardizing our health. Water pathogens, in form of disease-causing bacteria and viruses from human and animal waste, are a major reason of illness from contaminated drinking water. Owing to the improper treatment facilities, waste is often discharged into the surface and ground water sources. Water bacteria can be limited by recycling used plastic, standard disposal of chemicals, oils or non-biodegradable items and proper collection and transportation of solid waste to a processed disposal site. In addition, waste water should be treated properly to prevent adverse health risk of the user of both surface water and ground water in the aquatic ecosystems.

Multi-Decadal Impact of Mine Waters in Przemsza River Basin, Upper Silesian Coal Basin, Southern Poland

Anthropogenic increases in the salinity of surface waters are referred to as secondary salinization. In surface waters, salinity levels can vary significantly due to various natural and anthropogenic influences. This article presents multi-decadal observations of changes in surface water salinity in the highly industrialized region in southern Poland. The case study of the Przemsza River is an example of the significant impacts of industrial, mainly coal mining, activities that have changed the chemical and biological characteristics of water bodies. The presented research revealed that impacts on salinity and water body status due to mining discharges will be difficult or even impossible to restore, considering the process of transition of the coal sector. In the Przemsza river basin, almost 42% less mine water was discharged in 2023 than in 1991. Parallelly, the salinity of mine waters discharged from deeper levels of active coal mines has increased due to the geochemical gradient (the total load of chlorides and sulfates was 534.8 MgCl−+SO42− per day in 1991, while in 2023 the total salinity load was 480.1 MgCl−+SO42− per day). Moreover, of the 19 active mine water discharges in 1991, only 11 remain in 2023, while the observed salinity of surface water in the Przemsza watershed increased rapidly from an average of 2000 µS·cm−1 to 6700 µS·cm−1 due to the significant drought and adverse hydrological conditions, which represent low flows never observed before (three times lower flows in the mouth of the Przemsza River in the period 2021–2023 compared to the previous decades 1991–2020). Impacts on water bodies will continue to occur regardless of mining activities in the area—it should be noted that at the end of exploitation, mine water rebound and flooding do not automatically reduce long-lasting impacts on surface waters. Therefore, salinization is a growing threat that might be amplified by climate change. While industrial and urban impacts on surface water change its characteristics, the future challenge of proper water management with a holistic approach is necessary with proper monitoring data collection and river flow-dependent and surface water salinity-dependent discharge of wastewater in the river basin.

Honey bee larval toxicity study designs: Applicability of the current study protocols and endpoints asa predictor of pesticide hazard for pollinators.

The assessment of pesticide risks to bees in North America currently relies in part on Tier 1 honey bee laboratory toxicity studies to support the registration and registration review processes for crop protection chemicals. For immature stages, the studies follow two standardized test designs recommended by the Organization for Economic Cooperation (OECD), evaluating acute (seven-day single-dose, TG OECD 237) and chronic (22-day repeated-dose, GD OECD 239) toxicity in bee larvae. In this article, we aim to evaluate the current approach for generating and interpreting honey bee larval toxicity data, enhancing pesticide risk assessment for pollinators. First, by considering that the repeated-dose larval study covers all stages of honey bee brood development up to adult emergence, we compared endpoints (larval LD/ED50 and LC/EC50 values) from seven-day acute exposure studies with the 22-day chronic exposure studies. Our goal was to identify the study design offering greater sensitivity in assessing pesticide toxicity to immature bees. Our second objective involved analyzing available weight data from emerged adults and comparing it to survival endpoints (e.g., NOEL and LD50) to determine if the weight after adult emergence would accurately represent a sensitive indicator of pesticide effects on developing honey bees. Our analysis determined that the use of a single 22-day chronic exposure study adequately covers all immature stages and that the toxicity values based on cumulative dose are more accurate and representative measures of exposure for immature bees than using endpoints based on estimated daily doses. Furthermore, our analysis suggests that measuring the weight of emerged adults was a more sensitive indicator than mortality of treatment-related effects in 22% of the compounds included in our analysis. Here we also discuss the importance of standardized protocols for proper collection of weight after emergence and the need for further discussion on the relevance of this parameter at risk assessment scheme. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:2283-2293. © 2024 Pollinator Research Task Force. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).

Colorectal screening program implementation in primary health care, in Loures-Odivelas, Portugal

Abstract Problem In 2020, Portugal had the highest cumulative incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) in the European Union (103 new cases/100,000 inhabitants). The Colorectal Cancer Screening Program (CRCS) is based on fecal occult blood testing (FOBT) as the primary screening method. With the delivery of the stool sample collection device; instruction on its use is provided by the Primary Health Care team. The sample is processed at the Clinical Pathology laboratory of the Hospital Center (HC). In case of a positive result, the general practitioner communicates the result and refers the individual to the Follow-up and Treatment Center. Description The general objective of this project was to implement the CRCS in the 19 Family Health Units (FHU) of Loures-Odivelas Health Center Group, between September 2022 and April 2023. The following activities were carried out: 1. Sessions to present the patient pathway, record platform, and stool sample collection device; 2. Application of a checklist of essential points for the start of screening; 3. Preparation and dissemination of monitoring reports to the FHU; 4. Follow-up visits to clarify doubts. Results By March 2023, CRCS had been implemented in 15 of the 19 FHU (79%). Between September 2022 and March 2023, 1,430 devices were delivered and 959 FOBT samples were received (67%). Among the devices received with biological samples, it was not possible to issue a result for 5%. Lessons The activities carried out allowed for the initiation of CRCS in most FHU. The involvement of professionals in these activities contributes to increased patient adherence and proper collection technique, reducing inconclusive FOBT results. It is necessary to continue this strategy of personalized support for the FHU to consolidate the implementation of CRCS in LO HCG. Ensuring that the necessary materials are available and that result issuance and referral deadlines are met are important factors for maintaining professional motivation. Key messages • The objective was to implement the Colorectal Cancer Screening Program (CRCS) in 19 Family Health Units (FHU) in Loures-Odivelas. By March 2023, CRCS had been implemented in 15 of 19 FHU (79%). • It is important to continue these activities in order to put into operation the CRCS in all FHU and to tackle the problem of colorectal cancer.

DISTRIBUTION OF LIVERWORT FLORA ACROSS VEGETATION TYPES IN MT. BAGALBAL, PHILIPPINES: BASIS FOR IEC MATERIAL

The primary objective of this study is to assess the distribution of liverwort flora across different vegetation types in Mt. Bagalbal, evaluate their conservation status, and develop educational materials to raise public awareness. Habitat degradation poses a significant threat to liverwort biodiversity in Mt. Bagalbal, underscoring the need for conservation efforts. This investigation identified 31 liverwort species across fourteen families, with Plagiochilaceae being the most diverse, followed by Lejeuneaceae, Marchantiaceae, and Pallaviciniaceae. Species distribution patterns revealed that while some species exhibit broad dispersal, with two species recorded across eight locations, 18 species are confined to a single coordinate. Conservation assessments indicated that 14 species lack data on their status, 11 are classified as Least Concern, five as Data Deficient, one as Vulnerable, one as Critically Endangered, and one as Near Threatened. To promote awareness and conservation, an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) material was developed, comprising five sections: an overview of liverwort biology, photographs of representative species with their scientific names and IUCN conservation statuses, guidelines for proper collection and examination, acknowledgments of contributing agencies, and information about the authors. All photographic content in the IEC material was sourced from the field investigation at Mt. Bagalbal, Brgy. Mt. Nebo, Valencia City, Bukidnon, Philippines. This study demonstrates the high sensitivity of liverwort flora in Mt. Bagalbal to environmental changes, with significant implications for future conservation strategies.

Assessing the Feasibility of a Cancer Biomarker Testing Navigator in the Laboratory

Abstract Introduction/Objective Cancer biomarker testing is a crucial component of precision oncology, as it can guide medical treatment decisions with targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, complex, fragmented, and inefficient operational processes involved in biomarker testing lead to delays, errors, and variability in testing. One potential solution is to introduce a novel role in the pathology laboratory: the cancer biomarker testing navigator (BTN). Methods/Case Report The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) conducted a mixed-methods project to assess the current state of biomarker testing operations and explore how a BTN may improve biomarker testing processes. ASCP conducted an online survey, focus groups, and worked with two hospital-based cancer centers on a feasibility pilot. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) Survey and focus group insights reveal several operational challenges around the biomarker testing process. 47 completed the survey and 16 participated in the focus groups. Participants report that biomarker test orders may be incorrect or incomplete. 37% of survey respondents experience delays preparing tissue samples for send-out cancer biomarker testing. 42% of survey respondents are unable to track the processing status of send-out tests. Excessive time is required to coordinate and facilitate send-out tests, especially when multiple reference laboratories are used since each has its own portal, requisition form, specimen requirements, etc. 87% agree they would benefit significantly from having a dedicated person to coordinate and manage cancer biomarker tests. The cancer centers that piloted this role found that they could catch and correct defects such as incorrect test ordered, incorrect specimen types marked on the test order, outdated requisition used, etc. The BTN also found instances where the test report was incomplete or had not been uploaded into the EHR. The BTN role could be justified by evaluating metrics such as task efficiency, workplace satisfaction in the lab, and levels of service satisfaction from oncologists. Patient care can be improved by reducing delays in testing and by reviewing other metrics of quality care delivery. Conclusion The BTN role in the laboratory is a novel solution for ensuring the proper collection and triage of pathology samples for biomarker testing. This role could serve as a liaison between the laboratory and ordering clinicians, provide collection and testing guidance, and help with benchmarking and quality measurement initiatives.

GC-MS quantification of fecal short-chain fatty acids and spectrophotometric detection of indole: Do rectal swabs produce comparable results as stool samples? - A pilot study.

The exploration of the gut microbiome and related metabolites holds an exciting future in health science. The challenges associated with fecal sample testing are proper sample collection, sterile transportation, optimal transport conditions, and processing as all these factors could potentially change the microbiome composition, further exacerbated by the patient's customary discomfort regarding feces samples. The study aimed to compare the usage of rectal swabs and stool samples for short-chain fatty acid estimation using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and indole estimation using spectrophotometry. From May 2022 to June 2022, three women were recruited from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBG) in a secondary care hospital in coastal Karnataka. During their clinical visit, a rectal swab was collected, and the stool sample was transported to the hospital from the patient's home in sterile containers provided. After the extraction, short-chain fatty acids (acetate, propionate, and butyrate) were quantified using GC-MS. The fecal indole concentration was determined using a hydroxylamine-based assay. The GC-MS analysis failed to detect the concentrations of short-chain fatty acids in rectal swab samples. Indole concentrations in stool and swab samples were significantly different. The study's findings do not support the use of rectal swabs to analyze gut metabolites.