Screening Consultation Research Articles

Establishing criteria for advancing circular economy practices in the beer industry: A case study in South Vietnam

AbstractThis study involves an extensive examination of the brewing industry, specifically focusing on Company A in South Vietnam alongside five other Vietnamese beer companies (B, C, D, E, and F). By employing a multifaceted approach that integrates Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), evaluations of emission loads, and the establishment of criteria for a circular economy model, the study aims to investigate environmental impact, waste generation, energy consumption and potential circular solutions within these breweries. The findings from the survey indicate similarities in the fundamental production processes among the surveyed factories. However, differences were noted in technological advancement and the utilization of raw materials. Challenges in acquiring data, driven by industry competitiveness, highlighted discrepancies in technology investments and the implementation of circular solutions across the breweries. Assessment of emission loads, wastewater and exhaust gas data demonstrated Company A's compliance with environmental standards. Nonetheless, comparative analysis revealed that the water and energy consumption of Company A were 1.5–2.5 times greater, with carbon emissions of 2000–6000 kgCO2eq/m3 product, compared to other breweries. The comprehensive LCA uncovered higher water and energy footprints in Company A, emphasizing potential areas for significant improvements in water usage efficiency and energy conservation. Through the creation of a preliminary set of criteria, subsequent screening, and expert consultation utilizing the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), a set of 21 criteria was established. This system supports the assessment of current brewery statuses and identifies potential pathways for improvement towards a circular economy model. Recommendations include the adoption of industry‐agriculture models, waste recycling, energy efficiency initiatives and the integration of renewable energy for sustainable development in beer production.

Patients’ perspectives on adherence to cardiovascular screening consultation and lifestyle changes

BackgroundRheumatoid arthritis (RA) poses a significant health burden, with patients facing a twofold higher risk of cardiovascular diseases compared to the general population. As a results, the international recommendations set forth by the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology, advocate for a structured cardiovascular (CV) risk management and adherence to a healthy lifestyle for patients with RA. Unhealthy lifestyle factors not only impact overall health but also worsen inflammation and hinder treatment response in patients with RA Despite these recommendations, there remains a knowledge gap regarding patients’ attitudes towards screening participation and lifestyle changes. Therefore, the aims of this study were firstly to explore the perspectives of patients with rheumatoid arthritis on participation and adherence to cardiovascular screening. Secondly, to explore patients’ perspectives on lifestyle changes.MethodsSemi-structured interviews based on a hermeneutic approach were conducted. The analysis was guided by qualitative content analysis, employing an inductive approach.ResultsNine women and seven men, aged 47 to 76 years, diagnosed with RA, and who had attended at least one CV screening session, took part in the study. Two primary themes, along with four sub-themes, emerged from the analysis. The first main theme, Accepting an offer, encompassed the sub-themes of Engagement in the screening consultation and Risk awareness, reflecting participants' views on their involvement in, and commitment to, CV screening. The second theme pertained to participants' perspectives on lifestyle changes: Living with a chronic disease and embracing changes, described through the sub-themes of Motivation for lifestyle changes and Strategies to achieve lifestyle changes.ConclusionMotivations for taking part in the screening differed among the participants, ranging from simply accepting an invitation to joining as a proactive precaution. In general, there was unanimous agreement among the participants that the screening proved to be a positive encounter. While it may not have immediately prompted significant lifestyle alterations, it did enhance their awareness of risks and underscored the significance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Overall, the individual guidance and support for patients with rheumatoid arthritis should entail awareness of CV risk combined with support to lifestyle changes the participants want to pursue.

Participation in cardiovascular screening consultations, the who, when and why - A cohort study on patients with rheumatoid arthritis

BackgroundIn accordance with the EULAR recommendations, the Danish Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases have systematically invited patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to cardiovascular (CV) risk assessment since 2011. Patients with high risk are invited to a follow-up screening after one year. To optimize the screening and tailor it to individual needs, information about who accepts vs. declines follow-up is needed. Thus, the aim of this study was to explore participation in systematic CV risk assessment among patients with RA. Furthermore, to explore differences between patients with low vs. high risk, and between patients with high risk who accept vs. decline follow-up.MethodsData from 2,222 outpatients with RA in the period 2011-2021 were retrieved, and of these 1,522 were under 75 years and eligible to be invited. To assess the 10-year risk for CV death, the modified Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation (mSCORE), derived by multiplying the SCORE by 1.5, was used. Logistic regression analyses were used to explore differences in CV risk factors (triglycerides, HbA1c, lifestyle factors) and measures of disease impact (pain, fatigue, patient global assessment, HAQ, EQ-5D-5L) between patients with low vs. high risk. Differences between high risk patients who accepted vs. declined follow-up were analysed using Wilcoxon rank sum test and chi-squared test for groups.ResultsOne thousand one hundred forty-nine received a CV screening invitation and 91 declined participation. Patients with high risk had significantly longer disease duration (OR; 95 CI) (1.017; 1.002-1.032), higher levels of triglycerides (1.834; 1.475-2.280), HbA1C (1.046; 1.020-1.070), pain (1.006; 1.001-1.012), and HAQ-score (1.305; 1.057-1.612) compared to patients with low risk and they more often declined follow-up (43% vs. 28%, p < 0.001). Those who declined a follow-up invitation were older (p = 0.016) and had shorter disease duration (p = 0.006) compared to those who accepted follow-up.ConclusionA first CV screening consultation was accepted by most patients with RA, while only every other patient with high to very high CV risk adhered to a follow-up screening consultation. Neither measures of disease impact nor lifestyle factors were associated with adherence. Further studies are needed to explore the patients' motivation, barriers and facilitators for adherence or non-adherence to a follow-up consultation.

Impact of COVID-19 restrictions on diabetes mellitus management in Qatari primary care settings

IntroductionIn 2019, Coronavirus Diseases 2019 (COVID-19) emerged as a pandemic making diabetic patients among the most vulnerable to this virus. Previous studies showed contradicting evidence for the impact of “lockdown” on the management of diabetic patients. New models of service delivery were introduced in Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) (Qatar’s largest primary care provider) to ameliorate the risk of infection to both patients and health care workers including converting face to face chronic disease appointments (NCD, antenatal, and preventive visits) to telephone and video consultations. This study aimed to compare access and outcomes of PHCC registered diabetics pre-COVID and during the COVID-19 lockdown period.MethodsThe study was conducted as a 3 year historic cohort using PHCC’s electronic health record system. Individuals with an established diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (DM) before January 2019 and having at least one clinical encounter per year in a PHCC health center during the study period starting Jan 2019 to Dec 2021 were recruited. Pre-COVID-19 period was defined as the interval between January 2019 and February 2020, while the COVID-19 lockdown period was defined as the interval between February 2020 to December 2021. The study used a paired observation approach on selected process indicators on delivery of health services in line with PHCC’s diabetes management guidelines (at least two HbA1C tests done per year and at least one each of the following per year—low-density lipids (LDL) test, ophthalmology screening, podiatry assessment, health education and dietetics clinic consultations) and outcome indicators (blood pressure readings and the results of two laboratory tests: blood HbA1c and serum LDL level).ResultsCOVID-19 was associated with an overall mean reduction of 0.9 per year of consultations. Similarly, the delivery of annual assessments as per guidelines were also impacted. Of these, the probability of achieving the designed target for two HbA1C tests per year was reduced by almost a half (paired OR=0.47) during COVID-19 compared to pre- COVID-19 period. Conversely, a significant increase in the probability of having at least one each of LDL test, ophthalmology screening and dietetics consultation was observed (paired OR=1.84, 1.62 and 1.94 respectively) during COVID-19. The probability of having inadequate glycemic control (HbA1C > =7%) was significantly increased by 32% during COVID-19 period. Likewise, the probability of experiencing inadequately controlled blood pressure was significantly increased by 47% during the pandemic. Conversely, the probability of having Inadequately controlled blood lipids (LDL 2.6 mmol/L+) was significantly reduced by 9%.ConclusionsThe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the primary health care services in Qatar has highlighted PHCC’s resilience by the introduction of virtual consultations during COVID-19 restrictions. Only one process indicator was significantly impacted during COVID-19 restrictions, namely having at least two HbA1C tests per individual with diabetes per year. However, the control of the disease according to HbA1c and blood pressure measurements showed a noticeable deterioration during COVID-19.

Survey of Retina Specialists’ Attitudes and Practice Patterns of Screening and Management of Candida Endophthalmitis

ABSTRACT Purpose To understand retina specialists’ attitudes and practice patterns for screening for and managing Candida endophthalmitis and any impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on these practice patterns. Methods A survey was developed on Survey Monkey and distributed to ASRS regular members via email in April 2021. Results The survey had 231 respondents, of whom 169 (73%) performed inpatient consultations. Ninety percent responded that they do not recommend routinely screening asymptomatic patients with candidemia. For unresponsive patients with candidemia that lack visible signs of endophthalmitis, 65% did not recommend routine screening. However, 85% reported their affiliated hospitals did not have a policy to defer such screening consultations; this proportion did not significantly change when asked if a policy was implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. For patients with a dilated examination without signs of endophthalmitis, 89% surveyed recommended continuing systemic antifungals and reconsult PRN, while the remainder recommended repeat examinations until off antifungals. For initial management of Candida endophthalmitis, 55% indicated systemic antifungals only; 43% indicated systemic antifungals with tap & inject, and 2% indicated systemic antifungals with vitrectomy and intravitreal antifungals. Conclusion A discordance exists between the prevailing opinion among retina specialists against routine Candida endophthalmitis screening and hospital consultation policies, which were not significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In cases of diagnosed endogenous endophthalmitis, slightly more than half of surveyed retina specialists would not initiate additional treatment beyond systemic antifungals while just under half surveyed recommended initial tap and inject in addition to systemic antifungals.

Genetic etiology and pregnancy outcomes of fetuses with central nervous system anomalies

PurposeTo investigate genetic etiology and pregnancy outcomes of fetal central nervous system (CNS) anomalies.Methods217 fetuses with CNS anomalies were included in our cohort from January 2016 to December 2022. 124 cases received karyotyping and 73 cases simultaneously underwent copy number variant sequencing (CNV-seq). Dynamic ultrasound screening and pregnancy outcomes were followed up, including neonates’ neurodevelopmental outcomes.Results(1) 20 types of CNS anomalies were revealed by ultrasound and the most common was ventriculomegaly. (2) 14 (11.3%) of 124 cases were found chromosomal abnormalities by karyotyping, and copy number variations (CNVs) were revealed in 13 (17.8%) of 73 cases by CNV-seq. Fetuses with non-isolated CNS anomalies had a higher detection rate (DR) of abnormal karyotypes and CNVs than those with isolated CNS anomalies (25.0% vs. 4.8%; 35.0% vs. 11.3%) (P < 0.05). And the DR of abnormal karyotypes was significantly higher in multiple CNS anomalies than in single CNS anomaly (16.7% vs. 2.8%, P < 0.05), while there were no significant differences in the DR of CNVs. (3) Through dynamic ultrasound, 12 cases were further found progression or additional malformations. (4) Pregnancy outcomes of 209 cases were obtained, including 136 (65.1%) live births, 3 (1.4%) intrauterine fetal deaths, and 70 (33.5%) terminated. Two neonatal deaths at 6 months and one infant with motor and intellectual disabilities were finally found after long-term follow-up.ConclusionGenetic analysis combined with dynamic ultrasound screening and multidisciplinary consultation plays an important role in evaluating the prognosis of fetal CNS anomalies, especially for those with multiple CNS or extracranial abnormalities.

Mailing human papillomavirus self-sampling kits to women under-screened for cervical cancer improved detection in cervical cancer screening in a general population study in Japan

BackgroundOne cause of the increase in cervical cancer rates in Japan is the long-term stagnation in the cervical cancer screening consultation rate. Therefore, improving the screening consultation rate is of urgent concern to reduce cervical cancer incidence. Self-collected human papilloma virus (HPV) tests have been successfully adopted in several countries, such as the Netherlands and Australia, as a measure of individuals who have not undergone cervical cancer screening in national programs. This study aimed to verify whether self-collected HPV tests presented an effective countermeasure for individuals who had not undergone the recommended cervical cancer screenings.MethodsThis study was conducted from December 2020 to September 2022 in Muroran City, Japan. The primary evaluated endpoint was the percentage of citizens who underwent cervical cancer screening at a hospital with positive self-collected HPV test results. The secondary endpoint was the percentage of included participants who were diagnosed with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) or higher among those who visited a hospital and underwent cervical cancer screening.ResultsThe included study participants were 7,653 individuals aged 20–50 years with no record of previous cervical cancer examination in the past 5 years. We mailed these participants information on self-administered HPV tests as an alternative screening procedure and sent the kit to 1,674 women who requested the test. Among them, 953 returned the kit. Among the 89 HPV-positive individuals (positive rate, 9.3%), 71 (79.8%) visited the designated hospital for an examination. A closer examination revealed that 13 women (18.3% of hospital visits) had a CIN finding of CIN2 or higher, among whom one each had cervical cancer and vulvar cancer, eight presented with CIN3, and three presented with CIN2; two cases of invasive gynecologic cancer were also identified.ConclusionsWe conclude that the self-collected HPV tests showed a certain efficacy as a measure of individuals who had not undergone the recommended cervical cancer screening. We devised ways to have the unexamined patients undergo HPV testing and ensure that HPV-positive individuals visited the hospital. Despite a few limitations, our findings suggest the effectiveness of this public health intervention.

COVID-19 related decline in cancer screenings most pronounced for elderly patients and women in Germany: a claims data analysis

PurposeThis study aimed to analyze the utilization of cancer screenings in Germany before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The objective of the analysis was to identify the population at particular risk and to derive recommendations for the future use of resources to prevent long-term deteriorations in health outcomes.MethodsThe analysis was conducted based on claims data of all preventive health services for 15,833,662 patients from the largest statutory health insurance fund in Germany. Utilization of general female cancer screening, general male cancer screening, general health checkup, colorectal cancer screening stool test, colorectal cancer screening consultation, colonoscopy, skin cancer screening, and mammography screening was compared before (2017–2019) and during (2020) the pandemic.ResultsData of a total of 42,046,078 observed screenings showed that the utilization of the individual screenings developed differently, but that the overall utilization decreased significantly by 21.46% during the COVID-19 pandemic (p < 0.001). At the same time, no catch-up effects were detected for total screenings throughout the entire year 2020. The highest decline in screenings was found for the elderly (p < 0.001) and women (p < 0.001).ConclusionBecause the elderly are at higher risk for cancer, the omission of early detection might lead to higher treatment costs, reduced quality of life, and higher mortality. In addition, women's medical care in particular has been negatively affected, for example, by the interruption of mammography screenings and the lack of catch-up effects. Therefore, resources must be targeted to reduce burdens on health outcomes and public health in the long term.

Multisite assessment of the impact of a prenatal testing educational App on patient knowledge and preparedness for prenatal testing decision making

In this study, we wanted to assess the impact of the use of a patient educational app on patient knowledge about noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and preparedness for prenatal screening decision-making. A randomized control study was carried out at three international sites between January 2019 and October 2020. Study participants completed a pre-consultation survey and post-consultation survey to assess knowledge, satisfaction, and preparedness for prenatal screening consultation. Providers completed a post-consultation survey. In the control arm, the pre-consultation survey was completed prior to consultation with their prenatal care provider. In the intervention arm, the pre-consultation survey was completed after using the app but prior to consultation with their prenatal care provider. Mean knowledge scores in the 203 participants using the app were significantly higher pre-consultation (p < 0.001) and post-consultation (p < 0.005) than those not using the app. Higher pre-consultation knowledge scores in the intervention group were observed at all sites. Most (86%) app users stated they were “Satisfied” or “Very Satisfied” with it as a tool. Providers rated the intervention group as more prepared than controls (p = 0.027); provider assessment of knowledge was not significantly different (p = 0.073). This study shows that clinical implementation of a patient educational app in a real-world setting was feasible, acceptable to pregnant people, and positively impacted patient knowledge.

Detection of Lower Extremity Occlusive Peripheral Artery Disease (LEOPAD) by Measuring Systolic Pressure Index in Type 2 Diabetic Patients

Objective: The aims of our study are to identify the prevalence of LEOPAD in type 2 diabetes, to study the predictive factors of LEOPAD and to demonstrate the importance of establishing a specialized screening consultation in diabetic patients with LEOPAD and with high cardiovascular risk. Research design and methods: We carried out a prospective and descriptive study. The study involved 150 patients with type 2 diabetes who were followed on a regular basis. The different epidemiological, clinical and biological data were collected patient’s medical file. Each patient was investigated for cardiovascular risk factors. A thorough physical examination was performed in addition to biological assessment (fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, lipid profile). After consent had been obtained, all patients underwent the ankle-brachial systolic pressure index (ABI) test. Results: The mean age of our patients was 57.46 ± 8.04 of the 150 patients, 24.7% had abnormal ABI suggestive of lower limb ischemia. Among them, 8.7% had an ABI of 1, 3, a presumed marker of vascular stiffness. The mean age of the LEOPAD population was 58 years. LEOPAD was predominantly asymptomatic in our population (88.1%). Only 5 patients (11.9%) had intermittent claudication. The comparative study of patients with LEOPAD showed a statistically conversely significant correlation between LEOPAD and lower levels of HDL. However, there is no statistically significant correlation with the following factors: smoking, sex, hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity or overweight android pattern, the presence of microalbuminuria, renal failure and sedentary lifestyle. In terms of glycemic control, it did not show a statistically significant difference between the two groups. Moreover, it was noted that the patients with LEOPAD had had more micro vascular complications compared to patients without LEOPAD. Conclusion: Lower extremity occlusive peripheral artery disease occurred more commonly than it was expected in the diabetic population, associated with a high cardiovascular comorbidity. The sensitivity, specificity and simplicity of the ABI measurement promote its routine use and integration into the clinical approach of high-risk LEOPAD patients, especially the diabetics.

Suitability of Internet Medical Services of Hospitals from the Perspective of Suppliers

Objective To investigate the suitable services of telemedicine at present and the future from the perspective of medical service supplier,clarify the challenges in the development of telemedicine services at present,and provide evidence-based suggestions for improving the quality of telemedicine services. Methods A questionnaire was developed through literature review for the survey of telemedicine services from the perspective of service providers.From January to June in 2020,electronic questionnaires were collected from volunteers.The data were collated and analyzed by Excel 2010 and SPSS 21.0. Results A total of 614 questionnaires were distributed,and 582 effective questionnaires were collected,which showed an effective rate of 94.79%.The participants of this study were mainly young healthcare workers,including doctors,nurses,technicians,and medical students.Among them,68.73% expressed concern to telemedicine services-related work,and more than 50% only had a basic understanding of the related work.The top five developable telemedicine/healthcare services were health management,online consultation,disease re-examination,disease screening,and difficult disease consultation,which were basically consistent with the services suitable for future development. Conclusions Healthcare workers have a high degree of recognition to the development of telemedicine services,while their understanding of the related technologies remains to be improved.The available telemedicine services focus on online consultation,difficult disease consultation,and disease re-examination,while the complicated medical services need to be improved.In the future,efforts should be made to continuously improve the information construction level and narrow the regional gap of medical services,so as to promote the continuous improvement and the coordinated development of medical services between regions.

Sociological approach of differential care in Down syndrome screening based on maternal place of birth

Abstract Background In recent years, differential care in the field of perinatal medicine between women from sub-Saharan Africa and natives, such as suboptimal screening of preeclampsia or more frequent use of C-section have been identified. The objective of this study, in connection to the other parts of the BiP project, was to document differential care between these categories in regard with information on Down syndrome screening. Methods Prospective qualitative study by audio-recording and/or observation of prenatal visits, ultrasound examinations and genetic screening consultation, and semistructured explicitation interviews with care providers was conducted in 3 maternity units in Paris area. Two midwives and 2 obstetricians in each unit were included, such as their patients who consent to participate. The content of the consultations was classified thematically, and the interviews were analyzed using the grounded theory framework. Results 47 prenatal visits, 19 ultrasound examinations and 11 genetic screening consultations have been audio-registred and/or observed. Participation rate was 85% for the women. Semi-structured explicitation interviews were conducted among 11/12 care providers. Despite a probable inclusion bias (participants were informed of the purpose of the research and were volunteers), differences in care provider - patient interactions according to women's place of birth have been identified. A tendency to speak more loudly with women with lower French proficiency was noted and less detailed information on the screening strategy and on Down syndrome was provided. The use of an interpreter was very rare in situations of language barrier, challenging the information quality on Down syndrome screening. Conclusions Beside showing differences in care provider - patient interaction according to women's place of birth, this study provides an opportunity to discuss the benefits and limitations of qualitative approaches to the study of differential care.

Refining Patient-Centered Measures of End-of-Life Care Quality for Children With Cancer.

There are no existing quality measures (QMs) to optimize end-of-life care for children with cancer. Previously, we developed a set of 26 candidate QMs. Our primary objective in this study was to achieve stakeholder consensus on priority measures. We conducted an iterative, cross-sectional electronic survey, using a modified Delphi method to build consensus among clinician and family stakeholders. In each of the two rounds of surveys, stakeholders were asked to rate QMs on a 9-point Likert scale, on the basis of perceived importance. Health care professionals were additionally asked to rate measures on perceived feasibility. After each round, we computed median scores on importance and feasibility of measurement, retaining QMs with median importance scores ≥ 8. Twenty-five participants completed both rounds of the survey. In round 1, participants were asked to rate 26 QMs; nine QMs, including QMs pertaining to health care use, were removed because of median importance scores < 8. Two new measures were proposed for consideration in round 2, on the basis of participant feedback. Following round 2, 17 QMs were ultimately retained. QMs related to symptom screening and palliative care consultation were rated highly in importance and feasibility. QMs related to communication were rated highly important, yet less feasible. Measuring whether a patient's needs were heard by their health care team was rated among the least feasible. Childhood cancer stakeholders prioritized QMs pertaining to patient-reported outcomes, deeming measures of health care resource use less important. Future research should seek to develop novel tools for quality assessment to enhance feasibility of implementing priority measures.

Use of Endocrine Consultation for Hemoglobin A1C ≥9.0% as a Standardized Practice in an Emergency Department Observation Unit

ObjectiveSeverely uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with poor long-term outcomes and may remain unrecognized. A high frequency of uncontrolled DM has been identified in the acute-care setting, including the emergency department observation unit (EDOU). We assess the use of standardized endocrine consultation in the EDOU for hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) levels ≥9%. MethodsStandard practice in our EDOU includes universal HbA1C screening and endocrine consultation for HbA1C levels ≥9.0%. As part of a quality improvement program, EDOU patients with HbA1C levels ≥9.0% had an endocrinology consult. One-month follow-up phone calls assessed the effects of consultation after discharge. ResultsHbA1C tests were administered to 3688 (95.7%) of 3853 EDOU patients, of which 7.0% (n = 258) were found to have an HbA1C level ≥9% (mean ± SD, 11.7 ± 1.8%; range, 9%-16.6%). Endocrine consults were completed for 73.6% (190/258) patients with severely uncontrolled DM. Among the 190 patients, 92.1% (n = 175) had discharge DM medication adjustments. For known patients with DM (n = 142), injectable diabetes medication prescriptions increased from 47.2% (67/142) on EDOU arrival to 78.2% (111/142) upon discharge. Newly diagnosed DM injectable prescriptions increased from 0% (0/48) on arrival to 72.9% (35/48) upon discharge. A total of 72.6% (n = 138) were contacted at a 1-month follow-up and 94.9% (n = 131) reported taking DM medications, compared with 68.2% (n = 94) before consult. ConclusionHbA1C screening coupled with endocrine consultation for HbA1C levels ≥9.0% was assessed as a performance improvement study and is shown to have valuable results. Further investigation is required to determine the long-term clinical impact and cost analysis for this novel approach.

Serologic screening and infectious diseases consultation in renal transplant candidates for measles, mumps, rubella and varicella.

Background. Renal transplant recipients are at increased risk for developing complications of vaccine-preventable diseases. They benefit from a comprehensive pre-transplant evaluation when they might safely receive live vaccines. The primary aim of our study was to investigate the number of renal transplant recipients who were evaluated for serologic status against measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), and varicella. Secondarily, we investigated if pre-transplant Infectious Diseases consultation (IDC) improved vaccination rates.Methods. We retrospectively analyzed 282 kidney-alone and kidney-plus adult transplant recipients who were born in or after 1957. Patients were evaluated at Mayo Clinic, Florida Transplant Center between January 2015 and December 2017. Serologic status evaluation and vaccination rates were compared in two groups created based on IDC and no ID consultation (NIDC).Results. 235 (83%) of a total 282 patients received an IDC pre-transplantation. Varicella IgG levels were screened in all 235 IDC candidates. Among the IDC patients, mumps, measles and rubella IgG serologies were performed in 7 (3%), 143 (61%) and 144 (61%), respectively. Among 44 patients seronegative for any of MMR, 24 (55%) were vaccinated. Ten (66%) of 15 varicella seronegative patients were vaccinated. Zostavax was not given to 18% of IDC patients. Zostavax and MMR were administered more frequently in the IDC group compared to NIDC (p < .001 and p = 0.0016, respectively).Conclusion. Although the majority of patients had IDC, the screening rate for MMR serologies was lower than varicella. A protocol-driven serologic screening similar to the one for VZV is required for MMR. Pre-transplant IDC increases vaccination rates.

Analysis of operation procedure and effect for emergency surgery in general hospital during novel coronavirus pneumonia period

BackgroundNovel coronavirus pneumonia (NCP) outbreak in Wuhan, China in early 2020, resulted in over 80 thousand infections in China. At present, NCP has an explosive growth in the world. Surgeons could refuse selective operation during the outbreak, but they must face the emergency operation. We hope to avoid the spread of NCP while ensuring efficient treatment of emergency cases.MethodsThe data of patients with incarcerated hernia admitted to Beijing Chaoyang Hospital during NCP epidemic were analyzed and compared with those in 2019. All cases were divided into NCP group and 2019 group. The operation data and inpatient protection process of emergency cases were analyzed. Result During the NCP epidemic, 17 cases with incarcerated hernia were treated in our department. A Total of 263 cases of the same disease were admitted in 2019. There was no significant difference in age, gender, BMI and hernia type between two groups. No significant difference was observed between the two groups in operation method and hospital stay. The waiting time for emergency operation of NCP group was significantly longer than that of 2019 group (P = 0.002). A buffer ward was set up by administrator of hospital during NCP outbreak. Hospitals were divided into “Red area, Yellow area and Green area” artificially, and strict screening consultation system was implemented. There was no case of SARS-nCoV-2 infection in medical staff.ConclusionIt was safe and effective to carry out emergency operation on the premise of screening, protection and isolation during the NCP epidemic. The increased waiting time for operation due to NCP screening did not threaten medical safety of emergency incarcerated hernia patients.

Does socioeconomic status make a difference? A register-based study on the extent to which cardiovascular screening in patients with inflammatory arthritis leads to recommended follow-up in general practice

ObjectiveTo investigate to what extent patients with inflammatory arthritis (IA) follow recommendations given in a secondary care nurse-led cardiovascular (CV) risk screening consultation to consult their general practitioner (GP) to...

Diagnostic performance of fetal intelligent navigation echocardiography (FINE) in fetuses with double-outlet right ventricle (DORV).

The main objective of this study was to investigate the diagnostic performance of FINE in generating and displaying 3 specific abnormal fetal echocardiography views such as left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) view, right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) view, and 3-vessels and trachea (3VT) view in fetuses with double-outlet right ventricle (DORV). In this prospective study, thirty fetuses diagnosed with DORV by fetal echocardiography in the second and third trimesters were enrolled. One or more STIC volume data-sets were collected from the 4-chamber view as initial view for each fetus, one optimal volume per fetus was selected for on-line analysis using FINE, and the diagnosis plane image was optimized using the Virtual Intelligent Sonographer Assistance (VIS-assistance).The visualization rates of 3 specific abnormal fetal echocardiography views of DORV and key diagnostic elements were calculated. One or more STIC volumes (n = 30 total) were obtained in 25 patients. A single STIC volume per patient was analyzed using the FINE method. FINE was able to successfully generate and display 3 specific abnormal fetal echocardiography views. The display rates of the 3 specific abnormal fetal echocardiography views (3VT, LVOT, RVOT) were 84.0%, 76.0% and 84.0%, respectively. By applying intelligent navigation technology to STIC volume data-sets, the FINE method can successfully generate three specific abnormal cardiac fetal echocardiography diagnostic views in fetuses with DORV, the FINE method can be used for screening and remote consultation of fetal DORV.

AB1147 SCREENED – HIGH REMISSION RATES UNDERLINE THE BENEFIT OF SCREENING CONSULTATION MODELS FOR EARLY RECOGNITION AND TREATMENT OF RHEUMATIC AND MUSCULOSKELETAL DISEASES

Background:Early recognition and treatment of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) is of critical importance for the individual outcome. However, nationwide health care structures in Germany do not facilitate early access to initial rheumatologic evaluation. Furthermore, waiting times of several months due to substantial capacity constrains in regional rheumatology care services compromise the prognostically relevant “window of opportunity” for subsequent sustained remission. To promote early detection of RMDs, the Division of Rheumatology at the University hospital Heidelberg, Germany has launched a unique screening consultation model that offers early access to rheumatologic evaluation on regional level.Objectives:The registry-based study SCREENED (“Screen for early diagnosis”) has been initiated to monitor the outcome of patients that were diagnosed with an RMD at the screening clinic and to assess the costs and benefits of this consultation model for the regional quality of care.Methods:The screening consultation model has been launched in two phases: in the first phase (02/2016 - 01/2018), a screening clinic open to all patients without previous rheumatologic evaluation with appointments according to the registration order has been established through rearrangement of available capacities. In contrast to regular appointments, the screening clinic took place in shorter consultation time frames and without additional diagnostic procedures. In the second phase (02/2018 - 01/2020), in order to manage and prioritize access to rheumatologic care at our division more efficiently, prior to appointment allocation (not only) to the screening clinic all new patient registrations became subject to a preselection procedure based on the evaluation of an anamnesis questionnaire, medical reports and laboratory findings by an experienced rheumatologist. Furthermore, SCREENED project has been launched for scientific evaluation of both phases of the consultation model.Results:The screening consultation model achieved a significant reduction in waiting times to few weeks compared to six months for a regular appointment. In the first phase, the screening clinic had a high sensitivity of 94.3% and an improvable specificity of 31.1%. In the retrospective cohort, high remission rates have been observed over all RMD entities (120/206 = 58.3% patients based on physicians’ assessment in the follow-up after screening clinic) and in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in particular (38/61 = 62.3% and 33/55 = 60% patients with DAS28 score &lt; 2,6 after 12 and 24 months respectively). Remission was usually reached within a year after the first appointment (9.5 ± 6.7 months), however, a trend to higher remission rates in patients with shorter illness duration was obvious. In RA patients, csDMARDs have been initiated in a third of patients immediately at diagnosis in the screening clinic and in another third within six months after the first appointment. After 12 months, &gt; 80% have received csDMARDs, while only 14.2% needed b/tsDMARDs in the follow-up over 24 months.Conclusion:High sensitivity and significant reduction in waiting times for initial rheumatologic evaluation in the screening clinic pave the way for early recognition and treatment of RMDs. Subsequently, high remission rates in the follow-up were reached. In RA, a high proportion of patients only required csDMARDs to achieve sustained remission. A correspondingly small proportion of patients necessitating b/tsDMARD in the follow-up points towards a significant health economic benefit of the early rheumatologic intervention in the screening consultation model.Disclosure of Interests:Karolina Benesova Grant/research support from: Study grants for SCREENED study by Abbvie, Novartis and Rheumaliga Baden-Württemberg, Consultant of: One-time participation in Novartis advisory board., Vivienne Lion Grant/research support from: Grant/research support from: Study grants for SCREENED study by Abbvie, Novartis and Rheumaliga Baden-Württemberg, Oliver Hansen Grant/research support from: Grant/research support from: Study grants for SCREENED study by Abbvie, Novartis and Rheumaliga Baden-Württemberg, Hanns-Martin Lorenz Grant/research support from: Consultancy and/or speaker fees and/or travel reimbursements: Abbvie, MSD, BMS, Pfizer, Celgene, Medac, GSK, Roche, Chugai, Novartis, UCB, Janssen-Cilag, Astra-Zeneca, Lilly. Scientific support and/or educational seminars and/or clinical studies: Abbvie, MSD, BMS, Pfizer, Celgene, Medac, GSK, Roche, Chugai, Novartis, UCB, Janssen-Cilag, Astra-Zeneca, Lilly, Baxter, SOBI, Biogen, Actelion, Bayer Vital, Shire, Octapharm, Sanofi, Hexal, Mundipharm, Thermo Fisher., Consultant of: see above

Real-time video mosaicking to guide handheld in vivo microscopy.

Handheld and endoscopic optical-sectioning microscopes are being developed for noninvasive screening and intraoperative consultation. Imaging a large extent of tissue is often desired, but miniature in vivo microscopes tend to suffer from limited fields of view. To extend the imaging field during clinical use, we have developed a real-time video mosaicking method, which allows users to efficiently survey larger areas of tissue. Here, we modified a previous post-processing mosaicking method so that real-time mosaicking is possible at >30 frames/second when using a device that outputs images that are 400 × 400 pixels in size. Unlike other real-time mosaicking methods, our strategy can accommodate image rotations and deformations that often occur during clinical use of a handheld microscope. We perform a feasibility study to demonstrate that the use of real-time mosaicking is necessary to enable efficient sampling of a desired imaging field when using a handheld dual-axis confocal microscope.