Search

Background Nasopharyngeal qualitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is the gold standard for diagnosis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, but it is not practical or sufficient in every clinical scenario due to its inability to distinguish active from resolved infection. Alternative or adjunct testing may be needed to guide isolation precautions and treatment in patients admitted to the hospital. Methods We performed a single-center, retrospective analysis of residual clinical specimens and medical record data to examine blood plasma nucleocapsid antigen as a candidate biomarker of active SARS-CoV-2. Adult patients admitted to the hospital or presenting to the emergency department with SARS-CoV-2 ribonucleic acid (RNA) detected by RT-PCR from a nasopharyngeal swab specimen were included. Both nasopharyngeal swab and a paired whole blood sample were required to be available for analysis. Results Fifty-four patients were included. Eight patients had positive nasopharyngeal swab virus cultures, 7 of whom (87.5%) had concurrent antigenemia. Nineteen (79.2%) of 24 patients with detectable subgenomic RNA and 20 (80.0%) of 25 patients with N2 RT-PCR cycle threshold ≤ 33 had antigenemia. Conclusions Most individuals with active SARS-CoV-2 infection are likely to have concurrent antigenemia, but there may be some individuals with active infection in whom antigenemia is not detectable. The potential for high sensitivity and convenience of a blood test prompts interest in further investigation as a screening tool to reduce reliance on nasopharyngeal swab sampling and as an adjunct diagnostic test to aid in clinical decision making during the period after acute coronavirus disease 2019.

Background Clinical data informing antimicrobial susceptibility breakpoints for Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infections are lacking. We sought to leverage real-world data to identify MIC values within the currently defined susceptible range that could discriminate mortality risk for patients with S. maltophilia infections and guide future breakpoint revisions. Methods Inpatients with S. maltophilia infection who received single-agent targeted therapy with levofloxacin or trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole were identified in the Cerner HealthFacts electronic health record database. Encounters were restricted to those with MIC values reported to be in the susceptible range for both agents. Curation for exact (non-range) MIC values yielded sequentially granular model populations. Logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted OR (aOR) of mortality or hospice discharge associated with different susceptible-range MICs, controlling for patient- and centre-related factors, and infection site, polymicrobial infection and receipt of empirical therapy. Results Seventy-three of 851 levofloxacin-treated patients had levofloxacin MIC of exactly 2 mg/L (current Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) susceptibility breakpoint) and served as the reference category for levofloxacin breakpoint models. In breakpoint model I (n = 501), aOR of mortality associated with infection due to isolates with levofloxacin MIC of ≤1 versus 2 mg/L were similar [aOR = 1.79 (95% CI 0.88–3.62), P = 0.11]. In breakpoint model IIa (n = 358), aOR of mortality associated with MIC ≤0.5 versus 2 mg/L were also similar [aOR 0.1.36 (95% CI 0.65–2.83), P = 0.41]. However, breakpoint model IIb (n = 297) displayed higher aOR of mortality associated with an MIC of 1 versus 2 mg/L [aOR 2.36 (95% CI 1.14–4.88), P = 0.02]. Only 9/645 trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole-treated patients had trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole MIC of exactly 2/38 mg/L precluding informative models for this agent. Conclusions In this retrospective study of real-world patients with S. maltophilia infection, risk-adjusted survival data do not appear to stratify patients clinically within current susceptible-range MIC breakpoint for levofloxacin (≤2 mg/L) by mortality.

Introduction: Stroke is the second leading cause of mortality and the third leading cause of disability-adjusted life years. (1) this study aims to measure the knowledge about the stroke in Sennar city population. Methodology: This will be A Cross-sectional analytic study in the Sennar population town not in the medical field. Result: Of a total of 384 respondents, 63.3% (n =243) chose that HTN is the most important risk factor that can cause stroke, 35.4 % (n=136) choose obesity, while those who choose that lack of physical activity reached 33.6 % (n=129). While smoking came forth. Conclusion: In conclusion, the survey findings revealed good stroke-related knowledge in the Sennar community. Knowledge of stroke risk factors was above average, as was awareness of the need to call an ambulance in response to stroke symptoms.

Background : Dengue fever (DF) is now widespread throughout tropical and subtropical nations , There have been DF outbreaks during the last few years in Sudan, Up to now there is a lack of information regarding the awareness, attitudes, and practices of the population for DF protection in their settings, the aim of this study is to apply KAP model about DF among adults in sennar state in central sudan as one of the expected risk areas for the DF . Methods: The cross-sectional study conducted in selected area with high population in sennar city in sudan, from 1st to 15th of jan 2023, We used face-to-face interviews to collect data, The main analytical procedure was descriptive using frequencies. Results: Even though the majority of respondents (79.4%) had heard about dengue, they still have misconceptions about the breeding grounds for Aedes, more than half of the participants (64.3%) believed incorrectly that Aedes can breed in contaminated water and 21% were aware that Aedes mosquito usually bites around sunrise and sunset. Fever indication was identified by 45% of people which is the most common symptom of dengue .The level of education of the respondents was found to be an independent predictor of both knowledge and awareness of dengue among the socio-demographic factors. Although there was a significant correlation between knowledge and preventative behaviors, the degree of preventive practice was moderately less than the knowledge level ,according to our study, TV and radio are the most effective primary sources of information regarding preventive practices. Conclusion: in this study most of the participant have a positive background on various aspects of the disease, and apply appropriate preventive practices against DF, Health education via various media should be continued to raise community awareness and dispel misconceptions regarding DF .

Introduction A recent randomized trial has suggested an increased risk of mortality for ceftriaxone-non-susceptible Enterobacterales infections treated with piperacillin/tazobactam compared with meropenem despite MICs within the susceptible range. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of clinical encounters within the Cerner Health Facts database to identify all encounters between 2001 and 2017 in which Enterobacterales infections were treated empirically with piperacillin/tazobactam and for which MICs to the drug were available. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to enable partitioning of MICs into discrete strata based on statistically significant difference in mortality risk. Results During the study period, 10 101 inpatient encounters were identified meeting inclusion criteria. The crude in-hospital mortality for the entire cohort was 16.5%. Partitioning analysis identified a breakpoint of ≤16/4 mg/L that dichotomized encounters into lower versus higher mortality risk strata in the primary cohort of overall infections. This finding persisted in sequentially granular subsets where specific MICs ≤8/4 mg/L were reported (in lieu of ranges) as well as in the high-reliability subset with bloodstream infections. A higher clinical breakpoint of ≥128/4 mg/L dichotomized encounters with respiratory tract infection. No breakpoint was identified when restricting to encounters with urinary tract infections, ICU admits or upon restricting analysis to encounters with ceftriaxone-resistant isolates. Conclusions Clinical data suggest improved outcomes when piperacillin/tazobactam is prescribed for Enterobacterales infections with an MIC of ≤16/4 mg/L compared with ≥32/4 mg/L.

This study aims to detect an association between potential maternal predictors and neonatal anthropometry in Oman. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted in Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Oman between November 2014 and November 2015. The study included all term healthy Omani neonate-mother pairs. Summary descriptive statistics of neonatal (N) weight (Wt), length (L), head circumference (HC) and potential maternal (M) characteristics were collected. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess associations between maternal predictors and neonatal anthropometry. The study cohort identified 2783 eligible pairs. The data showed that parity, maternal weight (MWt), and height (MHt) explained a significant amount of the variance in birth weight: F ratio = 115.4, p value < 0.001, R2 adjusted = 0.12. MWt and MHt were significant predictors of length: F ratio = 65.3, p value < 0.001, R2 adjusted = 0.048. The predictors of HC were MWt, MHt, and parity: F ratio = 53.1, p value < 0.001, R2 adjusted = 0.57. Primiparous mothers were 2.2 times at greater risk of delivering low birthweight newborns. There were no significant differences in anthropometric outcomes between consanguineous and non-consanguineous groups. Maternal weight and height had significant positive associations with the three newborn anthropometric outcomes. Additionally, primiparity was associated with increased risk of low birthweight. Consanguinity was not associated with low birth weight in term Omani neonates.

Background Healthcare environmental contamination by patients harboring multidrug-resistant organism (MDROs) is an important source of hospital MDRO transmission. We aimed to determine the MDRO contamination and bioburden of surfaces within hospital rooms of patients with positive MDRO clinical cultures. Methods Patients with positive clinical cultures of MDROs (carbapenem resistant Acinetobacter baumannii [CRAB], carbapenem resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa [CRPA], extended spectrum cephalosporin and carbapenem resistant Enterobacterales [ESCRE, CRE] and vancomycin resistant Enterococcus [VRE]) were identified through daily screening of clinical microbiology results. Patient peri-rectal, inguinal, and wound sampling was performed. E-swab and environmental sampling of room surface composites was performed using environmental sponge wipes. Composite 1 included the TV remote, telephone, call button and bed rails. Composite 2 included the room door handle, IV pole and overbed table. Composite 3 included toileting surfaces. Each composite surface area was no more than 350mm3 each. Sponge wipes were expressed in phosphate-buffered saline containing 0.1% Tween 20 using a stomacher. The eluate was concentrated removed leaving ∼ 5mL, and remaining resuspended by vortex. Undiluted suspension was plated on selective MDRO medias and broth. Microbial burden was calculated by summing composites bioburdens. Samples that were only broth positive were given a value of 1 CFU. Table 1.Demographic and Clinical Characteristics of Multidrug-resistant Organisms Positive Patients (n=5)Abbreviation: CRAB: carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumanii, CRPA: carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, ESCRE: extended spectrum cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacterales, ESLD: end-stage liver disease, IBD: inflammatory bowel diseases, HTN: hypertension, MDRO: multidrug resistant organism, TBI: traumatic brain injury, VRE: vancomycin resistant enterococcus1- Immunosuppressed defined as solid organ transplant, bone marrow transplant within 12 months, chemotherapy within 6 months, HIV and CD4 14 daysTable 2.Multidrug-resistant Organism Environmental Contamination and Bioburden of Patients and Environmental CompositesAbbreviation: CRAB: carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, CRPA: carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, ESCRE: extended spectrum cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacterales, VRE: vancomycin resistant Enterococcus, ND: not done, NG: no growth, N/A; not applicable1Patient Swab P1: peri-rectal, P2: wound or tracheostomy, P3: inguinal2Environmental Swab C1: TV remote, telephone, call button and bed rails; Composite 2 room door handle, IV pole and overbed table; Composite 3: toileting surfaces Results Five patients were included with target MDROs (1 CRAB, 1 CRPA, 2 ESCRE, 1 VRE). Demographic, clinical, and microbiological characteristics are summarized in Table 1. The same MDRO was detected in the environment of 60% (3/5) patients. Additional MDROs other than the clinical culture were cultured from patient and composite sites swabs (Table 2). Antibiotic susceptibility data confirmed similarity between patient and environmental isolates and identified additional MDROs present (Table 3,4). Additional patient enrollment and WGS isolates from clinical culture, patient and environmental isolates is ongoing. Table 3.Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile of Isolates from Patients with Concordant Clinical and Environmental MDROsAbbreviation: CRAB: carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, ESCRE: extended spectrum cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacterales, MIC: minimum inhibitory concentration, N/A; not applicableTable 4.Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile of Concordant Clinical and Environmental MDROsAbbreviation: CRAB: carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii, MIC: minimum inhibitory concentration, N/A; not applicable, VRE: vancomycin resistant enterococcus Conclusion Concordance of clinical isolates with environmental isolates suggest that decolonization interventions could reduce environmental bioburden Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures.

Background Understanding the impact of multi-drug resistant organism (MDRO) acquisition on renal transplant recipients (RTR) mortality and allograft function is paramount to mitigating deleterious outcomes. Prior studies have been limited by lack of control groups and sample sizes. We aimed to the assess whether the detection of an MDRO or a susceptible organism during the early post-transplant period was associated with increased mortality and allograft failure among RTRs. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of RTRs at the Emory University Transplant Center between 2005–2022. Early post-transplant culture positivity was defined as a positive culture within 30 days of renal transplant. The primary outcome was a combined composite of one year- allograft loss and/or mortality following renal transplant. A Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed, and differences between survival curves for RTRs with an early post-transplant positive culture (stratified by susceptibility status) and negative control RTRs were assessed using the log-rank test. Multivariable cox proportional hazard and a competing risk analysis were performed. Results Among 3,233 RTRs, 259 (8%) had a susceptible organism detected and 35 (1%) had an MDRO detected (Figure 1). Demographic and microbiology characteristics are summarized in Table 1 & 2. One hundred and forty-nine (5%) RTRs experienced the composite outcome, this was experienced more frequently among RTRs with an MDRO detected (14%, 5/35) compared to RTRs with a susceptible organism defected (8%, 21/259) and negative controls (4%, 123/2,939) (Table 3). Significant difference between time from transplantation to the composite outcome when comparing negative controls, MDRO and susceptible organisms RTRs was observed (log rank p < 0.001) (Figure 2). Early post-transplant culture positivity (aHR 1.98 [1.30, 3.04]) and MDRO detection (aHR: 3.20 [1.30, 7.84]) were significantly associated with the composite outcome (Table 4). Conclusion MDRO as well as susceptible organism acquisition during the early post-transplant period was associated with increased mortality and allograft loss highlighting the need for increased infection prevention efforts within this vulnerable population. Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures.

β-hemolytic streptococci (BHS) are a leading cause of invasive bacterial disease worldwide. They are subtyped based on the presence of the surface polysaccharide antigens and include Group A Streptococcus (GAS; Streptococcus pyogenes), Group B Streptococcus (GBS; Streptococcus agalactiae), and non-group A, non-group B Streptococci (NABS). Invasive BHS infection is defined as isolation from the normally sterile site in patients with a compatible clinical syndrome which include, but is not limited to, streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS), Necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI), bacteremia, meningitis lower respiratory tract, musculoskeletal and puerperal/postpartum infections. Resuscitation, source control, and β-lactam therapy are the cornerstone of therapy.

The wide-spread exposure to constantly evolving wireless technologies believed to pose a serious health threat. Human beings are persistently exposed to RF radiation from mobile phones and their base stations. The current study aimed at classifying and characterizing the exposure to RF radiation from the mobile phone base stations. Spatial distribution measurements were carried out in Khartoum city during two time periods, first in 2012 (pilot survey) and again during Sept. 2019–Jan. 2020, to cover a total of 282 antennas operating with GSM900, GSM1800, and UMTS2100. The tested antennas belong to three mobile communication companies namely Sudani, Zain, and MTN companies, that randomly coded into company A, company B, and company C for security purposes. Measurements were performed using frequency-selective RF analyzer at fixed distances from the antennas/towers. Data were subjected to advanced repeated measures ANOVA, linear discriminant analysis (LDA), and spatial interpolation with ArcGIS. The averages of GSM900, GSM1800, and UMTS measurements were 0.01933 W/m2, 0.0067 W/m2, and 0.0046 W/m2. The high levels of power densities for each single antenna were recorded at 90 m, 110 m, 130 m, and at 150 m distances, for the majority (70%) of the measured antennas and the peak/highest values reported mainly at 110 m distance. Conversely, the discriminant loadings as part of LDA, suggested that, much of variance among measurements is attributed to measurements at 150 m, 170 m, and 190 m distances, while visual illustration of group centroids implied that, the RF signals of the different companies were measured separately which support accuracy of frequency-selective measurements. The LDA has confirmed the ANOVA results that, the overall difference between the three companies was statistically significant for UMTS, and GSM900 measurements but not significant for GSM1800 measurements. Kriging interpolation using ArcGIS provided a strong evidence of great spatial distribution of exposure across the study area, with market places and typical urban residential quarters showing highest levels of RF. Few extreme values exceeding ICNIRP limits are reported but excluded from the calculations because of an issue of normality of data that is considered a prerequisite for parametric data analysis. Existence of extreme levels of RF indicates a need for further investigation and some antennas of Company B are mounted on towers belongs to Company C, implying multi exposure. Unexpected pattern of RF levels continued to increase up to 190 m distance and possibly beyond 190 m is reported for UMTS measurements of Company C.

This study was conducted to evaluate the level of adopted biosecurity measures in broiler farms based on manure bacterial load examination in Khartoum State, Sudan. To achieve the goal, a cross sectional study was conducted. Data and manure samples were collected from January to September 2018 from 12 close system broiler farms according to Non-probability Multistage Cluster Sampling Method in Khartoum, Khartoum North (Bahri), and Omdurman localities (4 for each). A standardized questionnaire was also conducted and used for data collection. A total of 12 manure samples were collected from one chosen broiler house in each farm to check the TVCs. All collected Data were subjected to descriptive and analytical statistic such as Chi square and ANOVA using SPSS. The Results of external biosecurity measures revealed that half of the total farms examined (50%) were at a distance between 500 m to 1km from the nearest poultry farm. The same percentage was obtained for no manure spreading from neighboring farms. However, frequent passage of other farms vehicles via near public road was reported in 50% of participating farms. The internal biosecurity results showed that all the examined farms (100%) prohibiting manure storage beside 75.0% of them remove the manure through the dirty area. Furthermore, workers protective wearing when contact waste and hygiene practicing after removing waste sometimes practiced by 75.0% of the participant farms. The mean of bacterial TVCs in manure samples was found below the cut-off level (6.01±0.78 cfu/g) with 95% confidence intervals of 4.48-7.37, 5.20-6.79, and 4.39-7.84 and mean TVC of 5.93±0.90, 6.00±0.50, and 6.11±1.08 cfu/g for Khartoum, Khartoum North, and Omdorman, respectively. No significant difference was obtained for log means of bacterial TVCs and farm location (F value=0.047 and P-value=0.955). In conclusion, despite that the bacterial counts in manure samples were below the cut-off level, poor hygienic practices were detected. Formulation of suitable procedures and regulations by official authorities for implementing biosecurity measures is recommended.

This study was conducted to evaluate the current implementation level of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) prerequisites adopted in poultry meat production and processing in Khartoum State, Sudan. To achieve the goal, a cross sectional study was conducted. Data and samples were collected from January to September 2018 from 12 close system broiler slaughterhouses according to Non-Probability Multistage Cluster Sampling Method in Khartoum, Khartoum North (Bahri), and Omdurman localities (4 farms from each). A standardized questionnaire was conducted for slaughterhouses (12 for each) to investigate the current status of implemented HACCP prerequisites. One hundred and eighty swab samples were taken from different sites in the slaughterhouses’ halls (surfaces, workers’ hands, boots, water, and chillers) followed by 240 swab samples collected from broiler carcasses after 4 process steps (defeathering, evisceration, washing and chilling). After bacterial culturing, isolation, and identification, all collected Data were subjected to descriptive and analytical statistic such as Chi square and ANOVA using SPSS. Low level of good practices in slaughterhouses was shown regarding programmed documented personal hygiene staff training and qualification for responsibilities 50.0% (n=6), preventative maintenance 41.7% (n=5), and appropriate use of personal facilities 58.3% (n=7). In addition to that, 66.7% (n=8) of examined premises showed difficulty in cleaning, inadequate ventilation and 33.3% (n=4) showed lack of sanitary facilities (dispensers, personnel changing rooms, toilets, washing basins). Unhealthy practices and habits were observed in majority of workers during work such as not washing hands before entering production areas, smoking, and eating and drinking in processing areas, beside low level of medical check in two thirds of them 66.7% (n=8). Bacterial growth was shown in 60.0% (n=108) and 58.80% (n=141) of slaughterhouses’ halls samples and meat samples respectively. There was significant difference between state of growth of slaughterhouses’ halls sample and farm location (χ2=7.22 and P-value = 0. 027) while a high significant difference in association between state of growth of meat samples and slaughterhouses’ location (χ2=43.02 and P-value=0. 000) was revealed. The Gram positive and Gram negative isolates were mostly detected in workers’ hands 19.60% (n=56) and 4.36% (n=12) respectively. The difference between growth state of bacteria in slaughterhouses’ halls samples and sample sites was highly significant (χ2=30.92 and P-value=0.000) and the highest growth was shown in workers’ hands. On the other hand, most of Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria in processing steps were detected after defeathering 14.40% (n=41) and evisceration 2.49% (n=7) steps. However, there was no significant difference resulting from association of state of bacterial growth of poultry meat samples and different process steps (χ2=5.14 and P-value=0.162). Slaughterhouses’ halls samples and meat samples were found contaminated with harmful pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella spp. 1.41% (n=4), Escherichia coli 9.51% )n=27(, Staphylococcus aureus 7.75% (n=22), Citrobacter frundi 1.41% (n=4), and Micrococcus kristanae 8.75% (n=24). In conclusion, effective adoption of HACCP PRPs and biosecurity measures in Khartoum State has not been given serious attention beside lack of knowledge, resources, and absence of official authority’s role. Absence of proper “Farm to Table” hygiene policy in broiler production negatively affects poultry meat hygiene and consequently threatens public health. Therefore, formulation of suitable procedures and regulations by official authorities for implementing HACCP PRPs and biosecurity measures are needed to ensure poultry meat hygiene from primary stages of production till the end product.

BACKGROUND: Several U.S. hospitals had surges in COVID-19 caseload, but their effect on COVID-19 survival rates remains unclear, especially independent of temporal changes in survival. OBJECTIVE: To determine the association between hospitals' severity-weighted COVID-19 caseload and COVID-19 mortality risk and identify effect modifiers of this relationship. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04688372). SETTING: 558 U.S. hospitals in the Premier Healthcare Database. PARTICIPANTS: Adult COVID-19-coded inpatients admitted from March to August 2020 with discharge dispositions by October 2020. MEASUREMENTS: Each hospital-month was stratified by percentile rank on a surge index (a severity-weighted measure of COVID-19 caseload relative to pre-COVID-19 bed capacity). The effect of surge index on risk-adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of in-hospital mortality or discharge to hospice was calculated using hierarchical modeling; interaction by surge attributes was assessed. RESULTS: Of 144 116 inpatients with COVID-19 at 558 U.S. hospitals, 78 144 (54.2%) were admitted to hospitals in the top surge index decile. Overall, 25 344 (17.6%) died; crude COVID-19 mortality decreased over time across all surge index strata. However, compared with nonsurging (

Background In line with global trends, cancer incidence and mortality may have decreased for specific types of cancer in Qatar. However, the cancer-related burden on patients, healthcare systems, and the economy is expected to expand; thus, cancer remains a significant public healthcare issue in Qatar. Qatar’s free access to cancer care represents a considerable economic burden. Ensuring the best utilization of financial resources in the healthcare sector is important to provide unified and fair access to cancer care for all patients. Experts from the Qatar Oncology Health Economics Expert Panel (Q-OHEP) aimed to establish a consistent and robust base for evaluating oncology/hematology medications; involve patients’ insights to accelerate access to cutting-edge medications; increase the value of cancer care; and reach a consensus for using cost-effective strategies and efficient methodologies in cancer treatment. Methods The Q-OHEP convened on 30 November 2021 for a 3-hour meeting to discuss cancer management, therapeutics, and health economics in Qatar, focusing on four domains: (1) regulatory, (2) procurement, (3) treatment, and (4) patients. Discussions, guided by a moderator, focused on a list of suggested open-ended questions. Results Some of the salient recommendations included the development of a formal, fast-track, preliminary approval pathway for drugs needed by patients with severe disease or in critical condition; and encouraging and promoting the conduct of local clinical trials and real-world observational studies using existing registry data. The Q-OHEP also recommended implementing a forecast system using treatment center data based on the supply/demand of formulary oncology drugs to detect treatment patterns, estimate needs, expedite procurement, and prevent shortages/delays. Furthermore, the panel discussed the needs to define value concerning cancer treatment in Qatar, implement value-based models for reimbursement decision-making such as health technology assessment and multiple-criteria decision analysis, and promote patient education and involvement/feedback in developing and implementing cancer management guidelines. Conclusion Herein, we summarize the first Q-OHEP consensus recommendations, which aim to provide a solid basis for evaluating, registering, and approving new cancer medications to accelerate patient access to novel cancer treatments in Qatar; promote/facilitate the adoption and collection of patient-reported outcomes; and implement value-based cancer care in Qatar.

Colistin is a last-resort antibiotic for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections. A recently described allele of the mobile colistin resistance ( mcr ) gene family, designated mcr-9, has been widely reported among Enterobacterales species.

Colistin is a last-resort antibiotic for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections. Recently, the ninth allele of the mobile colistin resistance (

Background Previous research has shown that rooms of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) present the potential for healthcare-associated transmission through aerosols containing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, data on the presence of these aerosols outside of patient rooms are limited. We investigated whether virus-containing aerosols were present in nursing stations and patient room hallways in a referral center with critically ill COVID-19 patients. Methods Eight National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health BC 251 2-stage cyclone samplers were set up throughout 6 units, including nursing stations and visitor corridors in intensive care units and general medical units, for 6 h each sampling period. Samplers were placed on tripods which held 2 samplers positioned 102 cm and 152 cm above the floor. Units were sampled for 3 days. Extracted samples underwent reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for selected gene regions of the SARS-CoV-2 virus nucleocapsid and the housekeeping gene human RNase P as an internal control. Results The units sampled varied in the number of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patients present on the days of sampling. Some of the units included patient rooms under negative pressure, while most were maintained at a neutral pressure. Of 528 aerosol samples collected, none were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA by the estimated limit of detection of 8 viral copies/m3 of air. Conclusions Aerosolized SARS-CoV-2 outside of patient rooms was undetectable. While healthcare personnel should avoid unmasked close contact with each other, these findings may provide reassurance for the use of alternatives to tight-fitting respirators in areas outside of patient rooms during the current pandemic., 528 aerosol samples collected from hospital nursing stations, patient room hallways, and visitor corridors in general medical units and intensive care units were negative by RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 genetic material. These results have implications for use of personal protective equipment in nonpatient care areas of healthcare facilities

Among symptomatic outpatients, subgenomic RNA of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in nasal midturbinate swab specimens was concordant with antigen detection but remained detectable in 13 (82.1%) of 16 nasopharyngeal swab specimens from antigen-negative persons. Subgenomic RNA in midturbinate swab specimens might be useful for routine diagnostics to identify active virus replication.

To assess the impact of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic on seasonal respiratory viruses, absolute case counts and viral reproductive rates from 2019–2020 were compared against previous seasons. Our findings suggest that the public health measures implemented to reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission significantly reduced the transmission of other respiratory viruses.

Background Carbapenem-resistant gram-negative bacteria (CRGNB) continue to present a global healthcare crisis. We aimed to identify emerging trends of CRGNB over nearly 2 decades and describe the impact of CRGNB on patient outcomes. Methods Patients from whom CRGNB were isolated between 2000 and 2017 were included in the study. Carbapenem resistance was defined by the most recent breakpoints and applied across the study period. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes were retrieved from the electronic health record. Results A total of 94 888 isolates from 64 422 patients were identified; 9882 (10%) isolates from 4038 patients were carbapenem-resistant. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most common CRGNB each year. The second most common CRGNB emerged in waves over time. Carbapenem daily defined doses increased in parallel with CRGNB rates (R2 = 0.8131). The overall 30-day mortality rate was 19%, which decreased from 24% in 2000 to 17% in 2017 (P = .003; R2 = .4330). Among patients with CRGNB bloodstream infections (n = 319), overall 30- and 90-day mortality rates were 27% and 38%, respectively. Charlson score (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.11 per point), intensive care unit residence (aOR, 7.32), and severe liver disease (aOR, 4.8.4) were independent predictors of 30-day mortality, while receipt of transplantation was associated with lower rates of death (aOR, 0.39). Among patients admitted between 2011 and 2017 (n = 2230), 17% died during hospitalization, 32% were transferred to long-term care facilities, and 38% were discharged home. Conclusions CRGNB emerged in waves over time, causing high rates of mortality. Despite increasing rates of CRGNB, overall patient outcomes have improved, suggesting that recognition and novel therapeutics have made a major impact.

A Geographical Information System (GIS) utility, such as network analysis is a tool used to solve common network problem, This study is intended to use GIS as a tool of analyzing. integrating and displaying information. the overall activities of the work were concentrated around sub area selected as the study site in the Khartoum north city (Khartoum ) of main capital, Sudan .To demonstrate the use of road network analysis, this project focused on determining the best route between too destinations , the closest facility from a given incident , and a service area for a given facility . The present study attempt to analyze the potential use of network analysis in defining the optimal service area of different services such as hospitals, schools and university of Khartoum north. Generally for the purposes of this project ,distance is taken as impedance in order to find the best route and the closest facility and that of travel time is taken as impedance in order to find the service area.

Background: Presence of typical chest pain and normal coronary angiography suggests the possibility of microvascular ischemia of the myocardium as well as other non-cardiac causes that are also likely to decrease heart rate variability (HRV). This raises a question of whether poor HRV can predict abnormal elective coronary angiography (ECA). Aim: The aim of this study was to compare HRV in patients with typical chest pain when they are classified according to ECA outcomes. Methods: The study enrolled 150 patients planned for ECA in the cardiac center of AlShaab Teaching Hospital, Khartoum, Sudan, due to typical chest pain. Following assessment of medical history and clinical examination, the Bluetooth electrocardiography (ECG) transmitter and receiver were used for ECG recording and evaluation of time and frequency domains HRV. ECA confirmed the diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD) in 108 patients, who were considered as the test group. The other 42 subjects were considered as a control group after the exclusion of CAD. Results: The Mean±SD of Ln(pNN10), Ln(pNN20), LnLF, and LnHF was significantly higher in subjects with normal angiography compared with CAD patients. However, these statistically significant differences disappeared when the comparison was adjusted for age, gender, BMI, and HR of the studied groups. Conclusion: HRV is comparable in patients with typical chest pain regardless of ECA outcomes Relevance for patients: The HRV differences between patients with normal and abnormal ECA are likely to be biased by CAD risk factors such as old age, male gender, and tachycardia that are known to disturb HRV. The possibility of microvascular ischemia in patients with normal ECA may have attenuated HRV in this group and make it comparable to those suffering from macrovascular ischemia due to CAD.

Objective More studies are needed on how depressive symptoms in stroke patients can impact outcomes. We evaluated the relationship between depression symptom severity and motor outcomes in a cohort of patients with motor impairment from ischemic stroke. Method We enrolled consecutive ischemic stroke patients without a clinical diagnosis of depression who presented to a single-center urban academic referral hospital. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scale was used to measure depression symptom severity at three months. Three assessments of motor function were collected at stroke onset and three months: Fugl-Meyer upper extremity (FM-UE), Motricity Index, and Action Research Arm Test (ARAT). We assessed the association between three-month severity on PHQ-9 scores with the outcome measures using univariable and multivariable linear regression models. Results Fifty-seven patients (mean age 67.8 ± 17.0 years; 50.9% male; 59.6% Caucasian) were included in the final analysis. Mean (standard deviation) outcome scores at three months were PHQ-9: 6.39 (5), Motricity Index: 86.93 (30.04), FM-UE: 52.67 (17.83), and ARAT: 43.77 (20.03). After adjusting for age, initial National Institute of Health Stroke Scale, and if patient discharged after hospitalization on a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, sex, and baseline motor outcome, we found that for every point increase in PHQ-9, the Motricity Index decreased by 0.82 points (p = 0.02) and the FM-UE decreased by 0.77 points (p = 0.049). Conclusion Depressive symptoms are common in the stroke population. Depressive symptoms after stroke are associated with multiple types of motor impairments. We need better understanding of the biologic and psychologic aspects of depression involved in stroke recovery.

BackgroundSARS-CoV-2 mutations conferring escape from neutralizing antibodies can arise in immunocompromised patients with prolonged infection, but the conditions that facilitate immune escape are still not fully understood.MethodsWe characterized endogenous immune responses, within-host SARS-CoV-2 evolution, and autologous neutralization of the viral variants that arose in five immunocompromised patients with prolonged infection and B cell deficiencies.ResultsIn two patients treated with the monoclonal antibody bamlanivimab, viral resistance to autologous serum arose early and persisted for several months, accompanied by ongoing evolution in the spike protein. These patients exhibited deficiencies in both T and B cell arms, and one patient succumbed to disease. In contrast, we did not observe spike mutations in immunologically important regions in patients who did not receive exogenous antibodies or who received convalescent plasma and had intact T cell responses to SARS-CoV-2.ConclusionsOur results underscore the potential importance of multiple factors – the absence of an effective endogenous immune response, persistent virus replication, and selective pressure such as single-agent bamlanivimab – in promoting the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 mutations associated with immune evasion. These findings highlight the need for larger clinical studies in immunocompromised populations to better understand the ramifications of different therapies. Our results also confirm that patients with B cell deficiencies can elicit effector T cells and may suggest an important role for T cells in controlling infection, which is relevant to vaccines and therapeutics.

Background The incidence of the highly morbid and potentially lethal gangrenous cholecystitis was reportedly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the ChoCO-W study was to compare the clinical findings and outcomes of acute cholecystitis in patients who had COVID-19 disease with those who did not. Methods Data were prospectively collected over 6 months (October 1, 2020, to April 30, 2021) with 1-month follow-up. In October 2020, Delta variant of SARS CoV-2 was isolated for the first time. Demographic and clinical data were analyzed and reported according to the STROBE guidelines. Baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes of patients who had COVID-19 were compared with those who did not. Results A total of 2893 patients, from 42 countries, 218 centers, involved, with a median age of 61.3 (SD: 17.39) years were prospectively enrolled in this study; 1481 (51%) patients were males. One hundred and eighty (6.9%) patients were COVID-19 positive, while 2412 (93.1%) were negative. Concomitant preexisting diseases including cardiovascular diseases (p p p = 0.005) were significantly more frequent in the COVID-19 group. Markers of sepsis severity including ARDS (p p p p p p p p p Conclusions The incidence of gangrenous cholecystitis is higher in COVID patients compared with non-COVID patients admitted to the emergency department with acute cholecystitis. Gangrenous cholecystitis in COVID patients is associated with high-grade Clavien-Dindo postoperative complications, longer hospital stay and higher mortality rate. The open cholecystectomy rate is higher in COVID compared with non -COVID patients. It is recommended to delay the surgical treatment in COVID patients, when it is possible, to decrease morbidity and mortality rates. COVID-19 infection and gangrenous cholecystistis are not absolute contraindications to perform laparoscopic cholecystectomy, in a case by case evaluation, in expert hands. Graphical abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of ultraviolet-C (UV-C) disinfection as an adjunct to standard chlorine-based disinfectant terminal room cleaning in reducing transmission of hospital-acquired multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) from a prior room occupant. Design: A retrospective cohort study was conducted to compare rates of MDRO transmission by UV-C status from January 1, 2016, through December 31, 2018. Setting: Acute-care, single-patient hospital rooms at 6 hospitals within an academic healthcare system in Pennsylvania. Methods: Transmission of hospital-acquired MDRO infection was assessed in patients subsequently assigned to a single-patient room of a source occupant with carriage of 1 or more MDROs on or during admission. Acquisition of 5 pathogens was compared between exposed patients in rooms with standard-of-care chlorine-based disinfectant terminal cleaning with or without adjunct UV-C disinfection. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the adjusted risk of pathogen transfer with adjunctive use of UV-C disinfection. Results: In total, 33,771 exposed patient admissions were evaluated; the source occupants carried 46,688 unique pathogens. Prior to the 33,771 patient admissions, 5,802 rooms (17.2%) were treated with adjunct UV-C disinfection. After adjustment for covariates, exposed patients in rooms treated with adjunct UV-C were at comparable risk of transfer of any pathogen (odds ratio, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.84–1.32; P = .64). Conclusion: Our analysis does not support the use of UV-C in addition to post-discharge cleaning with chlorine-based disinfectant to lower the risk of prior room occupant pathogen transfer.

Background Pneumocystis jirovecii polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing is a sensitive diagnostic tool but does not distinguish infection from colonization. Cycle threshold (CT) may correlate with fungal burden and could be considered in clinical decision making. Clinical use of PCR and significance of CT values have not previously been examined with the DiaSorin Molecular platform. Methods Retrospective review of P jirovecii PCR, CT values and clinical data from 18 months in a multihospital academic health system. The diagnostic performance of PCR with respect to pathology and correlation of CT with severity were examined. Results Ninety-nine of 1006 (9.8%) assays from 786 patients in 919 encounters were positive. Among 91 (9.9%) encounters in which P jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) was treated, 41 (45%) were influenced by positive PCR. Negative PCR influenced discontinuation of therapy in 35 cases. Sensitivity and specificity of PCR were 93% (95% CI, 68%–100%) and 94% (95% CI, 91%–96%) with respect to pathology. CT values from deep respiratory specimens were significantly different among treated patients (P = .04) and those with positive pathology results (P < .0001) compared to patients not treated and those with negative pathology, respectively, and was highly predictive of positive pathology results (area under the curve = 0.92). No significant difference was observed in comparisons based on indicators of disease severity. Conclusions Pneumocystis jirovecii PCR was a highly impactful tool in the diagnosis and management of PJP, and use of CT values may have value in the treatment decision process in select cases. Further investigation in a prospective manner is needed.

We performed an epidemiological investigation and genome sequencing of severe acute respiratory coronavirus virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to define the source and scope of an outbreak in a cluster of hospitalized patients. Lack of appropriate respiratory hygiene led to SARS-CoV-2 transmission to patients and healthcare workers during a single hemodialysis session, highlighting the importance of infection prevention precautions.

In early 2020, as diagnostic and surveillance responses for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) ramped up, attention focused primarily on returning international travelers. Here, we build on existing studies characterizing early patterns of SARS-CoV-2 spread within the USA by analyzing detailed clinical, molecular, and viral genomic data from the state of Georgia through March 2020. We find evidence for multiple early introductions into Georgia, despite relatively sparse sampling. Most sampled sequences likely stemmed from a single or small number of introductions from Asia three weeks prior to the state’s first detected infection. Our analysis of sequences from domestic travelers demonstrates widespread circulation of closely related viruses in multiple US states by the end of March 2020. Our findings indicate that the exclusive focus on identifying SARS-CoV-2 in returning international travelers early in the pandemic may have led to a failure to recognize locally circulating infections for several weeks and point toward a critical need for implementing rapid, broadly targeted surveillance efforts for future pandemics.

To provide an accessible and inexpensive method to surveil for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) mutations, we developed a multiplex real-time reverse transcription-PCR (rRT-PCR) assay, the Spike single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) assay, to detect specific mutations in the spike receptor binding domain. A single primer pair was designed to amplify a 348-bp region of spike, and probes were initially designed to detect K417, E484K, and N501Y. The assay was evaluated using characterized variant sample pools and residual nasopharyngeal samples. Variant calls were confirmed by SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing in a subset of samples. Subsequently, a fourth probe was designed to detect L452R. The lower limit of 95% detection was 2.46 to 2.48 log10 genome equivalents (GE)/ml for the three initial targets (∼1 to 2 GE/reaction). Among 253 residual nasopharyngeal swabs with detectable SARS-CoV-2 RNA, the Spike SNP assay was positive in 238 (94.1%) samples. All 220 samples with threshold cycle (CT) values of

Background Pneumocystis jirovecii polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing is a sensitive diagnostic tool but does not distinguish infection from colonization. Cycle threshold (CT) may correlate with fungal burden and could be considered in clinical decision making. Clinical use of PCR and significance of CT values have not previously been examined with the DiaSorin Molecular platform. Methods Retrospective review of P jirovecii PCR, CT values and clinical data from 18 months in a multihospital academic health system. The diagnostic performance of PCR with respect to pathology and correlation of CT with severity were examined. Results Ninety-nine of 1006 (9.8%) assays from 786 patients in 919 encounters were positive. Among 91 (9.9%) encounters in which P jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) was treated, 41 (45%) were influenced by positive PCR. Negative PCR influenced discontinuation of therapy in 35 cases. Sensitivity and specificity of PCR were 93% (95% CI, 68%–100%) and 94% (95% CI, 91%–96%) with respect to pathology. CT values from deep respiratory specimens were significantly different among treated patients (P = .04) and those with positive pathology results (P < .0001) compared to patients not treated and those with negative pathology, respectively, and was highly predictive of positive pathology results (area under the curve = 0.92). No significant difference was observed in comparisons based on indicators of disease severity. Conclusions Pneumocystis jirovecii PCR was a highly impactful tool in the diagnosis and management of PJP, and use of CT values may have value in the treatment decision process in select cases. Further investigation in a prospective manner is needed., Among 1006 performed tests, Pneumocystis jiroveciipolymerase chain reaction had high negative predictive value with respect to pathology. Lower cycle threshold values were associated with the decision to treat and positive pathology and may be helpful in select cases.

Colistin is a last-resort antibiotic for multidrug-resistant gram-negative infections. Recently, the ninth allele of the mobile colistin resistance (mcr) gene family, designated mcr-9, was reported. However, its clinical and public health significance remains unclear. We queried genomes of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) for mcr-9 from a convenience sample of clinical isolates collected between 2012-2017 through the Georgia Emerging Infections Program, a population- and laboratory-based surveillance program. Isolates underwent phenotypic characterization and whole genome sequencing. Phenotypic characteristics, genomic features, and clinical outcomes of mcr-9 positive and negative CRE cases were then compared. Among 235 sequenced CRE genomes, thirteen (6%) were found to harbor mcr-9, all of which were Enterobacter cloacae complex. The median MIC, rates of heteroresistance and inducible resistance to colistin were similar between mcr-9 positive and negative isolates. However, rates of resistance were higher among mcr-9 positive isolates across most antibiotic classes. All cases had significant healthcare exposures. The 90-day mortality was similarly high in both mcr-9 positive (31%) and negative (7%) CRE cases. Nucleotide identity and phylogenetic analysis did not reveal geo-temporal clustering. mcr-9 positive isolates had a significantly higher number of median [range] AMR genes (16 [4-22] vs. 6 [2-15]; p mcr-9 negative isolates. Pan genome tests confirmed a significant association of mcr-9 detection with mobile genetic element and heavy metal resistance genes. Overall, the presence of mcr-9 was not associated with significant changes in colistin resistance or clinical outcomes but continued genomic surveillance to monitor for emergence of AMR genes is warranted.

Background Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) is considered first-line therapy for Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infections based on observational data from small studies. Levofloxacin has emerged as a popular alternative due to tolerability concerns related to TMP-SMX. Data comparing levofloxacin to TMP-SMX as targeted therapy are lacking. Methods Adult inpatient encounters January 2005 through December 2017 with growth of S maltophilia in blood and/or lower respiratory cultures were identified in the Cerner Healthfacts database. Patients included received targeted therapy with either levofloxacin or TMP-SMX. Overlap weighting was used followed by downstream weighted regression. The primary outcome was adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for in-hospital mortality or discharge to hospice. The secondary outcome was number of days from index S maltophilia culture to hospital discharge. Results Among 1581 patients with S maltophilia infections, levofloxacin (n = 823) displayed statistically similar mortality risk (aOR, 0.76 [95% confidence interval {CI}, .58–1.01]; P = .06) compared to TMP-SMX (n = 758). Levofloxacin (vs TMP-SMX) use was associated with a lower aOR of death in patients with lower respiratory tract infection (n = 1452) (aOR, 0.73 [95% CI, .54–.98]; P = .03) and if initiated empirically (n = 89) (aOR, 0.16 [95% CI, .03–.95]; P = .04). The levofloxacin cohort had fewer hospital days between index culture collection and discharge (weighted median [interquartile range], 7 [4–13] vs 9 [6–16] days; P, Our findings suggest that mortality outcomes are similar comparing levofloxacin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) treatment of Stenotrophomonas maltophilialower respiratory tract and bloodstream infections. Until trial data are available, levofloxacin appears to be a reasonable alternative to TMP-SMX for these infections.

In early 2020, as SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic and surveillance responses ramped up, attention focused primarily on returning international travelers. Here, we build on existing studies characterizing early patterns of SARS-CoV-2 spread within the U.S. by analyzing detailed clinical, molecular, and viral genomic data from the state of Georgia through March 2020. We find evidence for multiple early introductions into Georgia, despite relatively sparse sampling. Most sampled sequences likely stemmed from a single introduction from Asia at least two weeks prior to the state’s first detected infection. Our analysis of sequences from domestic travelers demonstrates widespread circulation of closely-related viruses in multiple U.S. states by the end of March 2020. Our findings indicate that the early attention directed towards identifying SARS-CoV-2 in returning international travelers may have led to a failure to recognize locally circulating infections for several weeks, and points towards a critical need for rapid and broadly-targeted surveillance efforts in the future.

Routinely reporting minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values to clinicians remains controversial. We surveyed clinicians to assess their knowledge and usage of MIC in clinical scenarios. The majority of respondents used MIC values to select antibiotic therapy, with a tendency to use those antibiotics with lower MICs, regardless of clinical appropriateness.

Most reverse transcription PCR protocols for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) include 2–3 targets for detection. We developed a triplex, real-time reverse transcription PCR for SARS-CoV-2 that maintained clinical performance compared with singleplex assays. This protocol could streamline detection and decrease reagent use during current high SARS-CoV-2 testing demands.

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infects 180 million people worldwide and over 4 million people in the United States. HCV infection is a major cause of chronic liver disease and is recognized as a risk factor for clinical cardiovascular disease (CVD). Many studies have shown increased prevalence of cardiac and inflammatory biomarkers in patients with chronic HCV infection (CHC), and though these markers may be used to risk stratify people for cardiac disease in the general population their role in the HCV population is unknown. Patients with CHC have elevated cardiac and inflammatory biomarkers compared to noninfected controls which may play a role in CVD risk stratification. We undertook a systematic review of inflammatory and cardiac biomarkers in people with HCV infection with a focus on the effect of CHC on serum levels of these markers and their utility as predictors of CVD in this population. Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched for relevant articles until June 2019. A total of 2430 results were reviewed with 115 studies included. Our review revealed that HCV infection significantly alters serum levels of markers of inflammation, endothelial function, and cardiac dysfunction prior to HCV treatment, and some of which may change in response to HCV therapy. Current risk stratification tools for development of CVD in the general population may not account for the increased inflammatory markers that appear to be elevated among HCV‐infected patients contributing to increased CVD risk.

Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a heterogeneous condition due to defects in NADPH oxidase characterized by granuloma formation and increased susceptibility to invasive infections, in particular moulds. The use of broad-spectrum, mould-active antifungal prophylaxis has improved mortality. However rare resistant moulds have emerged as important pathogens. Diagnosis of these rare fungi requires molecular techniques, and treatment data are limited. Herein, we present a case of with disseminated Rasamsonia infection involving the heart. Keywords: Chronic granulomatous disease, Filamentous fungi, Invasive fungal infections

INTRODUCTION: Mounting evidence demonstrates potential for fecal-oral transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The US Food and Drug Administration now requires SARS-CoV-2 testing of potential feces donors before the use of stool manufactured for fecal microbiota transplantation. We sought to develop and validate a high-sensitivity SARS-CoV-2 reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) procedure for testing stool specimens. METHODS: A modified extraction method was used with an RT-PCR assay adapted from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention PCR protocol for respiratory specimens. Contrived specimens were created using pre-COVID-19 banked stool specimens and spiking in known concentrations of SARS-CoV-2-specific nucleic acid. The highest transcript concentration at which 2/2 or 1/2 SARS-CoV-2 targets were detected in 9/10 replicates was defined as the dual-target limit and single-target limit of detection, respectively. The clinical performance of the assay was evaluated with stool samples collected from 17 nasopharyngeal swab RT-PCR-positive patients and 14 nasopharyngeal RT-PCR-negative patients. RESULTS: The dual-target and single-target limit of detection were 56 copies/µL and 3 copies/µL, respectively. SARS-CoV-2 was detected at concentrations as low as 0.6 copies/µL. Clinical stool samples from known COVID-19-positive patients demonstrated the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in stool up to 29 days from symptom onset with a high agreement with nasopharyngeal swab tests (kappa statistic of 0.95, P value < 0.001). DISCUSSION: The described RT-PCR test is a sensitive and flexible approach for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in stool specimens. We propose an integrated screening approach that incorporates this stool test to support continuation of fecal microbiota transplantation programs.

Ahmed Babiker’s work focuses on the clinical and genomic epidemiology of multidrug-resistant health care-associated pathogens and other high-consequence pathogens. In this mSphere of Influence article, he reflects on how the paper “Tracking a Hospital Outbreak of Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae with Whole-Genome Sequencing” by author Evan S., Ahmed Babiker’s work focuses on the clinical and genomic epidemiology of multidrug-resistant health care-associated pathogens and other high-consequence pathogens. In this mSphere of Influence article, he reflects on how the paper “Tracking a Hospital Outbreak of Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae with Whole-Genome Sequencing” by Evan S. Snitkin et al. (Sci Transl Med 4:148ra116, 2012, https://doi.org/10.1126/scitranslmed.3004129) impacted his thinking on the use of whole-genome sequencing for nosocomial transmission investigation.

Answer: Strongyloides stercoralis. The patient’s respiratory culture grew normal respiratory flora but was characterized by tracks of small bacterial colonies dragged by moving filariform Strongyloides stercoralis larvae (Fig. 1B). His stool ova-and-parasite (O&P) exam and intestinal biopsies (Fig

A 67-year-old male with acute myeloid leukemia and an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HCT) from a matched, unrelated donor two and a half months prior was admitted with 10 days of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. After his HCT, he had hematopoietic engraftment and was maintained on