Search

Neurofilament proteins have been validated as specific body fluid biomarkers of neuro-axonal injury. The advent of highly sensitive analytical platforms that enable reliable quantification of neurofilaments in blood samples and simplify longitudinal follow-up has paved the way for the development of neurofilaments as a biomarker in clinical practice. Potential applications include assessment of disease activity, monitoring of treatment responses, and determining prognosis in many acute and chronic neurological disorders as well as their use as an outcome measure in trials of novel therapies. Progress has now moved the measurement of neurofilaments to the doorstep of routine clinical practice for the evaluation of individuals. In this Review, we first outline current knowledge on the structure and function of neurofilaments. We then discuss analytical and statistical approaches and challenges in determining neurofilament levels in different clinical contexts and assess the implications of neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels in normal ageing and the confounding factors that need to be considered when interpreting NfL measures. In addition, we summarize the current value and potential clinical applications of neurofilaments as a biomarker of neuro-axonal damage in a range of neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer disease, frontotemporal dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, stroke and cerebrovascular disease, traumatic brain injury, and Parkinson disease. We also consider the steps needed to complete the translation of neurofilaments from the laboratory to the management of neurological diseases in clinical practice. Neurofilaments have been validated as specific body fluid biomarkers of neuro-axonal injury. In this Review, Khalil and colleagues provide an update on the structure and function of neurofilaments, analytical approaches and challenges in different clinical contexts, and progress towards clinical application of neurofilaments as a biomarker in various neurological disorders. Key points: Neurofilament proteins have emerged as one of the most important body fluid biomarkers of neuro-axonal injury in a wide range of neurological diseases. High-sensitivity analytical platforms enable reliable quantification of neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels in blood samples, paving the way for their use in clinical practice. Establishment of large reference databases of physiological blood levels of NfL adjusted for age and BMI was a major milestone towards the clinical use of NfL. Neurofilament levels can often not be used to diagnose disease entities but are useful as a diagnostic type biomarker in the preclinical phases of neurodegenerative diseases and as markers of disease progression, prognosis, and treatment response. Neurofilament levels are increasingly used as an outcome measure in clinical trials; FDA approval of tofersen was based on changes in blood NfL levels, marking a paradigm shift in the importance of biomarkers in regulatory approvals. Standardization and cross-compatibility of neurofilament measures taken with current emerging analytic platforms are key to completing the translation of neurofilaments into clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the growing number of patients receiving direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC), patients requiring rapid neutralization is also increasing in case of major bleedings or urgent surgery/procedures. Idarucizumab is commercialized as a specific antidote to dabigatran while andexanet alfa has gained the Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency approval as an oral anti-factor Xa inhibitors antidote. Other antidotes or hemostatic agents are still under preclinical or clinical development, the most advanced being ciraparantag. DOAC plasma levels measurement allows to appropriately select patient for antidote administration and may prevent unnecessary prescription of expensive molecules in some acute clinical settings. However, these tests might be inconclusive after some antidote administration, namely andexanet alfa and ciraparantag. The benefit of laboratory monitoring following DOAC reversal remains unclear. Here, we sought to provide an overview of the key studies evaluating the safety and efficacy of DOAC reversal using the most developed/commercialized specific antidotes, to discuss the potential role of the laboratory monitoring in the management of patients receiving DOAC specific antidotes and to highlight the areas that deserve further investigations in order to establish the exact role of laboratory monitoring in the appropriate management of DOAC specific antidotes. Anticoagulation monitoring and specific reversal agent targets DOAC: direct oral anticoagulant; dTT: diluted thrombin time; ECA: ecarin chromogenic assay; ECT: ecarin cloting time. [Display omitted] • Antidotes for direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) reversal have been developed. • The role of laboratory monitoring in DOAC reversal using antidotes is unclear. • Dabigatran level prior to idarucizumab could predict reversal outcome. • Oral FXa inhibitor levels cannot be easily measured following andexanet alfa. • DOAC measurement using commercialized assays is not possible after ciraparantag. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Zebrafish have emerged as invaluable model organisms in biological research, offering a cost-effective alternative to rodents. However, the absence of standardized feeding protocols and nutritional requirements poses a significant challenge, potentially compromising the validity of experimental outcomes, particularly in preclinical studies. Our systematic review analyzes a plethora of studies focused on zebrafish feed intake, feeding regimes, and diet compositions. We uncover substantial variability in dietary parameters, notably in crude protein and lipid content. Despite this diversity, energy levels remain quite consistent across zebrafish diets. By using these insights, we propose a novel feeding protocol for zebrafish of different developmental stages, based on a formulated feed optimized for protein and energy content. This protocol might represent the first step towards standardizing zebrafish feeding practices, thereby enhancing experimental reproducibility and data reliability. Zebrafish are one of the most used animal models in biological research and a cost-effective alternative to rodents. Despite this, nutritional requirements and standardized feeding protocols have not yet been established for this species. This is important to avoid nutritional effects on experimental outcomes, and especially when zebrafish models are used in preclinical studies, as many diseases have nutritional confounding factors. A key aspect of zebrafish nutrition is related to feed intake, the amount of feed ingested by each fish daily. With the goal of standardizing feeding protocols among the zebrafish community, this paper systematically reviews the available data from 73 studies on zebrafish feed intake, feeding regimes (levels), and diet composition. Great variability was observed regarding diet composition, especially regarding crude protein (mean 44.98 ± 9.87%) and lipid content (9.91 ± 5.40%). Interestingly, the gross energy levels of the zebrafish diets were similar across the reviewed studies (20.39 ± 2.10 kilojoules/g of feed). In most of the reviewed papers, fish received a predetermined quantity of feed (feed supplied). The authors fed the fish according to the voluntary intake and then calculated feed intake (FI) in only 17 papers. From a quantitative point of view, FI was higher than when a fixed quantity (pre-defined) of feed was supplied. Also, the literature showed that many biotic and abiotic factors may affect zebrafish FI. Finally, based on the FI data gathered from the literature, a new feeding protocol is proposed. In summary, a daily feeding rate of 9–10% of body weight is proposed for larvae, whereas these values are equal to 6–8% for juveniles and 5% for adults when a dry feed with a proper protein and energy content is used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: A molecular diagnostic laboratory is the cornerstone of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) disease diagnosis, as the patient's treatment and management protocol depend on molecular results. Therefore, the laboratory conducting these tests must adhere to quality management process to increase the accuracy and validity of the generated reports. Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital established its molecular diagnostic set-up at the beginning of the pandemic. Hence, this study aims to generate quality management data to help improve weak points. Aim: To assess the quality management system for COVID-19 diagnosis. Materials and Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted at Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital in Delhi, India. A total of 14,561 samples were collected over six months, from February 2021 to July 2021. Data from all samples received during this period for COVID-19 Reverse-Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) testing were included. Data were retrospectively collected from the electronic Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Quality variables were analysed over six months from July to December 2021 and classified into preanalytical, analytical, and postanalytical variables. Quality Indicators (QIs) were selected from a common model of QIs set by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine. The results were presented in percentages, and descriptive statistics were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Results: During the six-month study period, the molecular laboratory received 14,561 samples. Among the preanalytical variables, sample leakage was the most common cause of sample rejection (134 samples, 0.92%), followed by the non generation of Specimen Referral Form (SRF) identification (76 samples, 0.52%), and non compliance with triple packaging (44 samples, 0.3%). Other preanalytical aspects assessed included incomplete patient identification (17 samples, 0.11%), insufficient sample quantity (12 samples, 0.08%), missing forms/samples (7 samples, 0.04%), samples in the wrong vials/empty Viral Transport Media (VTM) tubes (5 samples, 0.03%), and incomplete LIMS entry (2 samples, 0.01%). Internal Quality Control (QC) was not obtained in 55 samples (0.37%), and two incidents of cross-contamination resulted in false-positive results. Among the postanalytical factors, 11 samples (0.07%) could not be dispatched within the stipulated time frame. Conclusion: The assessment of the quality management system revealed some areas for improvement, emphasising the importance of adhering to QC processes for the smooth operation of diagnostic laboratories, especially those involved in critical reporting. The assessment of QIs helped monitor laboratory parameters effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Analysis of laboratory value often lacks assessment of the laboratory's impact on quality of care. In this study, we aimed to determine the impact of bringing a heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) antibody assay in-house on a quality metric—patient hospital length of stay (LOS)—and assess any associated cost savings. Methods A retrospective review of patient visits with a HIT antibody assay over a 7-year period determined the mean LOS in send-out vs in-house HIT antibody assay cohorts as well as cohorts of positive and negative results. Our systemwide mean LOS and metrics of acuity were analyzed. We performed a financial analysis of estimated cost savings. Results We found a mean LOS reduction of 3.97 days in the in-house cohort, with no evidence of a systemwide LOS decrease or a decline in patient acuity. This reduction was largely driven by a reduction in LOS among patients with a negative assay result. We found an estimated total cost savings of $3.9 million and an estimated mean savings per patient of $7,305, despite escalating health care costs over time. Conclusions We demonstrated a reduction in LOS following the introduction of an in-house HIT antibody assay that cannot be attributed to either systemwide initiatives or reduced patient acuity and was driven largely by patients with negative assays. This reduction was associated with significant estimated cost savings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are rare hematologic diseases that require early diagnosis to prevent thrombotic events. Only a few studies have investigated transcranial Doppler (TCD) ultrasonography among these population groups. Following the PRISMA Guidelines, we reviewed the utility of TCD in Polycythemia vera (PV) and Essential Thrombocytosis (ET) patients in the context of cerebral blood flow and detection of microembolic signals (MES). Methods: This systematic review focuses on the application of TCD in MPN. By incorporating findings from one observational study, one prospective study, and three case reports, the review establishes that while TCD is not a primary tool for diagnosing PV and ET, it plays a crucial role in monitoring cerebrovascular complications, assessing thrombotic risk, evaluating treatment responses, and facilitating research related to these conditions. Results: This review incorporates findings from a total of 63 patients. 3.2% had ischemic stroke and 1.6% had transient ischemic attack with a total of 4.8% stroke risk. Highintensity transient signals (HITS) were common in 22% of patients wherein they had elevated hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelet values. Following treatment and normalization of blood panels, 31.7% had improved cerebral perfusion with normal flow velocities. 3.2% had elevated flow velocities linked to blood flow obstruction. There was significant clinical improvement among the study population, with 17.5% becoming asymptomatic with the disappearance of MES. Conclusions: The judicious use of TCD can enhance a comprehensive diagnostic and monitoring strategy, complementing traditional clinical and laboratory assessments in the management of MPN specifically PV and ET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tom Myers, owner of All-Rite Pest Control, Inc., is a successful pest control operator and world-class nature photographer. His passion for insects and photography began in childhood and has taken him to all seven continents, capturing captivating images of wildlife and people. Myers recommends attending workshops and joining photography groups to improve insect photography skills. He admires the work of other bug photographers and suggests exploring online groups and websites for inspiration. Myers primarily uses Photoshop for post-processing his images. This article is an interview with Marlin E. Rice, a nature photographer and pest control operator, who discusses his passion for nature photography and offers advice for starting a pest control business. Rice emphasizes the importance of patience, observation, and knowing one's equipment in nature photography, as well as problem-solving and good people skills in the pest control industry. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Transgender people may avoid seeking medical care due to previous negative experiences and fear of discrimination. Clinical laboratories can contribute to a poor patient experience and clinical outcome when the design and functionality of laboratory information management systems (LIMS) do not consider the needs of transgender patients. This survey aimed to capture current practices in United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland clinical laboratories concerning how transgender patient data and test requests are managed throughout the total testing process. Methods: An anonymous survey was distributed to clinical laboratory professionals in November 2021. Thirty-three questions covered how gender variables are recorded for transgender patients and used to inform gender-specific calculations, test access, and reference intervals (RIs). Results: Of the 66 respondents, 70% were based in laboratories in England, with a majority of laboratories having ISO 15189 accreditation and processing 1000–10,000 blood samples daily. Eighty-five percent stated that their LIMS had a single field recording sex or gender information. Forty-three percent did not limit test access based on gender, but 68% did not append RIs for patients with unknown or indeterminate gender. Conclusions: This survey was the first to quantify how clinical laboratories manage sex and gender information and report results for transgender and non-binary patients, and details several key recommendations based on the survey responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a review of the book "Hayes' Principles and Methods of Toxicology, 7th Edition." It praises the book for its comprehensive coverage of various topics in toxicology and its clear writing style. The review highlights the inclusion of new topics such as hormesis, medical devices, and biotechnology products. It recommends the book as a valuable resource for toxicologists and students in the field. [Extracted from the article]

This commentary discusses the implementation of fasting in nonclinical animal experimental subjects. The short-term removal of food from cages of experimental animals is in all respects innocuous. The term "stress" is ill-defined and the statutes and regulations governing animal research laboratories that exert their authority in the performance of their operations do so without substantive grounds to base compliance. The legislative and administrative history of the implementation of the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) has evolved into the development of laboratory management strategies that focus on the reduction of the biological cost of stress to the animals and the determination of when subclinical stress (eustress) becomes distress. Animal welfare is based on the tenet that in laboratories conducting animal research in compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (Title 21 USC, Chapter 13,§58), it is the study protocol and the study director that establish procedures and processes that are approved by each Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee to ensure the humane care and use of animals in research, teaching, and testing and to ensure compliance with guidelines and regulations. This approval process establishes the justification of eustress in the environment that do not rise to the threshold of distress under the AWA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free ionized calcium (fCa) is considered the gold standard for assessing calcium status in patients, but it is relatively expensive and is associated with several preanalytical and analytical error sources. We investigated the feasibility of using a reflex test that involves first measuring total calcium (tCa) and if out of reference range, then measure fCa, with expectation of reducing the number of fCa measurements. We used data from 1815 unique patients with concurrent measurement of fCa, tCa and albumin adjusted calcium (aCa). Patients were stratified by albumin level, and the association of fCa to tCa and aCa respectively was assessed with linear regression. The regression analysis showed the best linearity for tCa and aCa at albumin <35 g/L (R2: 0.80–0.90), and the poorest at albumin >40 g/L (R2: tCa 0.58; aCa 0.59). We examined the accuracy of hypo- and hypercalcemia classifications for tCa, aCa and the reflex test. aCa had more misclassifications of hypo- and hypercalcemia than tCa, with respectively 25% and 21%. Implementation of the reflex test would correct any false hypo- or hypercalcemia classified by tCa, leaving only false negative results corresponding to 9% of all tCa measurements. False negative results were on average 0.04 mmol/L above or below the reference range of fCa. Implementation of the reflex test reduces the number of fCa by 68% without major errors diagnosing hyper- or hypocalcemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) imparts physical stress on the oolemma of the oocyte and remains among the most technically demanding skills to master, with success rates related to experience and expertise. ICSI is also time-consuming and requires workflow management in the laboratory. This study presents a device designed to reduce the pressure on the oocyte during injection and investigates if this improves embryo development in a porcine model. The impact of this device on laboratory workflow was also assessed. Methods: Porcine oocytes were matured in vitro and injected with porcine sperm by conventional ICSI (C-ICSI) or with microICSI, an ICSI dish that supports up to 20 oocytes housed individually in microwells created through microfabrication. Data collected included set-up time, time to align the polar body, time to perform the injection, the number of hand adjustments between controllers, and degree of invagination at injection. Developmental parameters measured included cleavage and day 6 blastocyst rates. Blastocysts were differentially stained to assess cell numbers of the inner cell mass and trophectoderm. A pilot study with human donated MII oocytes injected with beads was also performed. Results: A significant increase in porcine blastocyst rate for microICSI compared to C-ICSI was observed, while cleavage rates and blastocyst cell numbers were comparable between treatments. Procedural efficiency of microinjection was significantly improved with microICSI compared to C-ICSI in both species. Conclusion: The microICSI device demonstrated significant developmental and procedural benefits for porcine ICSI. A pilot study suggests human ICSI should benefit equally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, most medical laboratories do not have a dedicated software for managing report recalls, and relying on traditional manual methods or laboratory information system (LIS) to record recall data is no longer sufficient to meet the quality management requirements in the large regional laboratory center. The purpose of this article was to describe the research process and preliminary evaluation results of integrating the Medical Laboratory Electronic Record System (electronic record system) laboratory report recall function into the iLab intelligent management system for quality indicators (iLab system), and to introduce the workflow and methods of laboratory report recall management in our laboratory. This study employed cluster analysis to extract commonly used recall reasons from laboratory report recall records in the electronic record system. The identified recall reasons were validated for their applicability through a survey questionnaire and then incorporated into the LIS for selecting recall reasons during report recall. The statistical functionality of the iLab system was utilized to investigate the proportion of reports using the selected recall reasons among the total number of reports, and to perform visual analysis of the recall data. Additionally, we employed P-Chart to establish quality targets and developed a "continuous improvement process" electronic flow form. The reasons for the recall of laboratory reports recorded in the electronic recording system were analyzed. After considering the opinions of medical laboratory personnel, a total of 12 recall reasons were identified, covering 73.05 % (1854/2538) of the recalled laboratory reports. After removing data of mass spectra lab with significant anomalies, the coverage rate increased to 82.66 % (1849/2237). The iLab system can generate six types of statistical graphs based on user needs, including statistical time, specialty labs (or divisions), test items, reviewers, reasons for report recalls, and distribution of the recall frequency of 0–24 h reports. The control upper limit of the recall rate of P-Chart based on laboratory reports can provide quality targets suitable for each professional group at the current stage. Setting the five stages of continuous process improvement reasonably and rigorously can effectively achieve the goal of quality enhancement. The enhanced iLab system enhances the intelligence and sustainable improvement capability of the recall management of laboratory reports, thus improving the efficiency of the recall management process and reducing the workload of laboratory personnel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, most medical laboratories do not have a dedicated software for managing report recalls, and relying on traditional manual methods or laboratory information system (LIS) to record recall data is no longer sufficient to meet the quality management requirements in the large regional laboratory center. The purpose of this article was to describe the research process and preliminary evaluation results of integrating the Medical Laboratory Electronic Record System (electronic record system) laboratory report recall function into the iLab intelligent management system for quality indicators (iLab system), and to introduce the workflow and methods of laboratory report recall management in our laboratory. This study employed cluster analysis to extract commonly used recall reasons from laboratory report recall records in the electronic record system. The identified recall reasons were validated for their applicability through a survey questionnaire and then incorporated into the LIS for selecting recall reasons during report recall. The statistical functionality of the iLab system was utilized to investigate the proportion of reports using the selected recall reasons among the total number of reports, and to perform visual analysis of the recall data. Additionally, we employed P-Chart to establish quality targets and developed a "continuous improvement process" electronic flow form. The reasons for the recall of laboratory reports recorded in the electronic recording system were analyzed. After considering the opinions of medical laboratory personnel, a total of 12 recall reasons were identified, covering 73.05 % (1854/2538) of the recalled laboratory reports. After removing data of mass spectra lab with significant anomalies, the coverage rate increased to 82.66 % (1849/2237). The iLab system can generate six types of statistical graphs based on user needs, including statistical time, specialty labs (or divisions), test items, reviewers, reasons for report recalls, and distribution of the recall frequency of 0–24 h reports. The control upper limit of the recall rate of P-Chart based on laboratory reports can provide quality targets suitable for each professional group at the current stage. Setting the five stages of continuous process improvement reasonably and rigorously can effectively achieve the goal of quality enhancement. The enhanced iLab system enhances the intelligence and sustainable improvement capability of the recall management of laboratory reports, thus improving the efficiency of the recall management process and reducing the workload of laboratory personnel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death, accounting for ≈50% of all cardiovascular deaths. The prognosis of such individuals is poor, with <10% surviving to hospital discharge. Survival with a favorable neurologic outcome is highest among individuals who present with a witnessed shockable rhythm, received bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation, achieve return of spontaneous circulation within 15 minutes of arrest, and have evidence of ST-segment elevation on initial ECG after return of spontaneous circulation. The cardiac catheterization laboratory plays an important role in the coordinated Chain of Survival for patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The catheterization laboratory can be used to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and resuscitative support after sudden cardiac arrest from many different cardiac causes, but it has a unique importance in the treatment of cardiac arrest resulting from underlying coronary artery disease. Over the past few years, numerous trials have clarified the role of the cardiac catheterization laboratory in the management of resuscitated patients or those with ongoing cardiac arrest. This scientific statement provides an update on the contemporary approach to managing resuscitated patients or those with ongoing cardiac arrest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The significance of Technological and Vocational Education (TVE) lies in producing professionals with competencies that are required to support the academic community. The aim of this study was to build an Information System of Laboratory (ISLab) that would improve the performance of the technical and vocational educational laboratory. The proposed information system was built based on multimedia featuring text, graphics, 3D images, grassroots access, and top-down reviews. The study used the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) technique, and the data was analyzed using descriptive, gain-score, and inferential factorial design. The study findings proved that ISLab operated in accordance with laboratory standards and achieved a performance of 90.3% according to user needs. Furthermore, laboratory management using ISLab was found more effective than conventional management system, and the proposed method of management enabled interaction with user groups that led to an increase in performance of laboratory staff and lecturers. The results of this research indicate that ISLab was suitable to be used in managing technical and vocational educational laboratories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the management strategies for patients with weak or discrepant RhD phenotypes, who may be at risk for alloimmunization with exposure to conventional D+ red blood cells (RBCs) during pregnancy or transfusion. The article emphasizes the importance of RHD genotyping in identifying RHD variants at risk for anti-D, as serological RhD typing alone is insufficient. The authors present their own experience with RHD genotyping in a diverse patient population and recommend treating all patients with weak or discrepant RhD phenotypes as D-negative until RHD variant identification is obtained. They also suggest that Rh CcEe phenotypes can be helpful in interpreting RHD genotypes. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for tailored laboratory practices based on the specific communities served. [Extracted from the article]

The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed laboratory management, with a surge in demand for diagnostic tests prompting the adoption of new diagnostic assays and the spread of variant surveillance tools. Rapid antigen tests (RATs) were initially used only for screening and later as suitable infection assessment tools. This study explores the feasibility of sequencing the SARS-CoV-2 genome from the residue of the nasopharyngeal swab extraction buffers of rapid antigen tests (RATs) to identify different COVID-19 lineages and sub-lineages. Methods: Viral RNA was extracted from the residue of the nasopharyngeal swab extraction buffers of RATs and, after a confirmation of positivity through a reaction of RT-PCR, viral genome sequencing was performed. Results: Overall, the quality of the sequences obtained from the RNA extracted from the residue of the nasopharyngeal swab extraction buffers of RATs was adequate and allowed us to identify the SARS-CoV-2 variants' circulation and distribution in a period when the use of molecular swabs had been drastically reduced. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the potential for genomic surveillance by sequencing SARS-CoV-2 from the residue of the nasopharyngeal swab extraction buffers of RATs, highlighting alternative possibilities for tracking variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Author summary: Information is the cornerstone of research, from experimental (meta)data and computational processes to complex inventories of reagents and equipment. These 10 simple rules discuss best practices for leveraging laboratory information management systems to transform this large information load into useful scientific findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to determine the TAT of manual verification and automatic verification of lipid profile examination results, as well as test the TAT difference between manual verification and automatic verification of lipid profile examination results at the analytical stage at the Pramita clinical laboratory pajajaran branch in the city of Bandung. The method used in this study is using a comparative descriptive method with a quantitative approach. Based on the research that has been done, the average value of ± standard deviation of manual verification TAT on lipid profile examination results is 112.44 ±46.02 minutes, while in automatic verification TAT is 68.03 ± 28.07 minutes. The results of the independent sample t-test between TAT manual verification and automatic verification of lipid profile examination results with significance values p-Value Sig.(2-tailled) 0.000 < 0.05. The conclusion of this study is that TAT verification of lipid profile examination results at the analytical stage decreases after automatic verification is implemented. There is a significant difference in turnaround time between manual verification and automatic verification of lipid profile test results at the analytical stage at the Pramita Clinical Laboratory pajajaran branch in Bandung. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Private Veterinary Practitioners (PVPs) are essential in doorstep veterinary treatment and the backbone of livestock services. During their clinical activities they also facing hindrances in the delivery of livestock service in an effective manner. Under this background, the current study was formulated with aim to know the constraints perceived by PVPs in Tamil Nadu. Methods: The study was conducted from January to March, 2022 in Tamil Nadu. Through well-structured interview schedule data were collected from one hundred private practitioners. The collected data of constraints were analyzed and ranked by Weighed Mean Score (WMS) method. Animal husbandry experts’ suggestions was sought to overcome foremost constraints and interpreted by percentage analysis. Result: The constraint analysis of PVPs revealed that local quacks treatment foremost constraint with WMS of 86.67 followed by absence of efficient diagnostic-laboratory support (WMS 85.67), delayed report of mastitis (WMS 83.67) and self-medication by livestock owner and/or farmers (WMS 83.33) were next important constraints. Animal husbandry experts suggested the following strategies to overcome the constraints: conducting ration balancing awareness campaign to farmers (90.00%), conducting regular refresher diagnostic laboratory management training programmes for field private veterinarians (86.67) and forming farmers’ interest groups to report quacks (73.33%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increase of exploratory projects of comprehensive chemistry laboratory in universities, the types and quantity of hazardous chemicals are increasing. Due to the frequent occurrence of safety accidents in university laboratories, the safety management of hazardous chemicals has become an important concern of chemistry laboratories in recent years. According to the present situation for management and existing problems, this paper proposes a series of countermeasures, including three-level linkage responsibility and safety inspection system, strengthening the construction of laboratory management echelon, refining the process of purchase, store and use of hazardous chemicals, and strengthening the information construction of management platform. It effectively improves the safety responsibility consciousness of the teachers and students, and gradually reduces the hidden danger of laboratory safety, which provides a reference for the safety management mode of hazardous chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To understand the use, functionality and interoperability of laboratory information management systems (LIMS) in UK transfusion laboratories. Background: LIMS are widely used to support safe transfusion practice. LIMS have the potential to reduce the risk of laboratory error using algorithms, flags and alerts that support compliance with best practice guidelines and regulatory standards. Reporting to Serious Hazards of Transfusion (SHOT), the United Kingdom (UK) haemovigilance scheme, has identified cases where the LIMS could have prevented errors but did not. Shared care of patients across different organisations and the development of pathology networks has raised challenges relating to interoperability of IT systems both within, and between, organisations. Methods and Materials: A survey was distributed to all SHOT‐reporting organisations to understand the current state of LIMS in the UK, prevalence of expertise in transfusion IT, and barriers to progress. Survey questions covered LIMS interoperability with other IT systems used in the healthcare setting. Results: A variety of LIMS and version numbers are in use in transfusion laboratories, LIMS are not always updated due to resource constraints. Respondents identified interoperability and improved functionality as the main requirements for transfusion safety. Conclusion: A nationally agreed set of minimum standards for transfusion LIMS is required for safe practice. Adequate resources, training and expertise should be provided to support the effective use and timely updates of LIMS. A single LIMS solution should be in place for transfusion laboratories working within a network and interoperability with other systems should be explored to further improve practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Comparisons of transfusion practice between organisations are time‐consuming using manual methods for data collection. We performed a feasibility study to determine whether large‐scale transfusion data from three English hospitals could be combined to allow comparisons of transfusion practice. Methods: Clinical, laboratory and transfusion data from patients discharged between 1 April 2016 and 31 March 2017 were extracted from Patient Administration Systems (PAS), Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), and electronic transfusion systems at three NHS hospitals, which are academic medical centres based in large cities outside London. A centralised database and business intelligence software were used to compare the data. Results: The dataset contained 748 982 episodes of patient care with 91 410 blood components transfused. The study confirms the results of previous studies finding peaks in the ages of transfusion in the 0–4 years age range, in women of childbearing ages, and in males over 60 years. The number of components transfused per 1000 bed days was used as a standardised comparator. Red cell utilisation was 42.4, 40.4 and 49.5 units/1000 bed days and platelet utilisation 11.69, 7.76, and 11.66 units/1000 bed days. 60.5% (6848/11 310) of Group O D negative red cell units were transfused to non‐group O D negative recipients. An analysis of component usage highlighted variations in practice, for example platelet usage for cardiac surgery varied from 2.4% to 7.3% across the three hospitals. Conclusion: This feasibility study demonstrates that large electronic datasets from hospitals can be combined to identify areas for targeted interventions to improve transfusion practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Intracranial infection is often associated with contiguous sinus infection, with Streptococcus intermedius being the most common pathogen. Microbiological assessment is possible via sinus or intracranial sampling. While a sinus approach is minimally invasive, it is not clear whether this yields definitive microbiological diagnosis leading to optimized antimicrobial therapy and avoidance of intracranial surgery. Methods: A retrospective review of a prospectively collected electronic departmental database identified patients between 2019 and 2022. Further demographic and microbiological information was obtained from electronic patient records and laboratory management systems. Results: Thirty-one patients were identified with intracranial subdural and/or epidural empyema and concurrent sinus involvement during the 3-year study period. The median age of onset was 10 years with a slight male predominance (55%). All patients had intracranial sampling with 15 patients undergoing sinus sampling in addition. Only 1 patient (7%) demonstrated identical organism(s) grown from both samples. Streptococcus intermedius was the most common pathogen in intracranial samples. Thirteen patients (42%) had mixed organisms from their intracranial cultures and 57% of samples undergoing bacterial PCR identified additional organisms, predominantly anaerobes. Sinus samples had a significant addition of nasal flora and Staphylococcus aureus which was rarely grown from intracranial samples. Of concern, 7/14 (50%) of sinus samples did not identify the main intracranial pathogen diagnosed on intracranial culture and additional PCR. Literature review identified 21 studies where sinus drainage was used to treat intracranial empyemas, with only 6 authors reporting concurrent microbiology results. This confirmed our cohort to be the largest comparative study in the current literature. No center has observed a greater than 50% concordance in microbiological diagnoses. Conclusion: Endoscopic sinus surgery may have therapeutic benefit, but it is not an appropriate approach for microbiological diagnosis in pediatric subdural empyemas. High rates of contaminating nasal flora can lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. Routine addition of 16S rRNA PCR to intracranial samples is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Achieving the targeted organizational goals through effective training can increase employee satisfaction. Since 2015, the Supranational Reference Laboratory Uganda (SRL Uganda) has trained National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratories (NTRLs) from 21 countries in a variety of areas that cover both technical and programmatic aspects pertinent to TB laboratories. The Laboratory Quality Management System (LQMS) under SRL coordinates actions intended to ensure sustained quality of the laboratory services offered by the National TB Reference Laboratories. In order for laboratory results to be helpful in a clinical or public health setting, they must be accurate, reliable, and timely. The LQMS course aims to provide learners with knowledge on how to attain and maintain this quality. Prior to this study, there was hardly any data available on the effectiveness of LQMS trainings provided by SRL Uganda; using Kirkpatrick model, which is popular among researchers for evaluating the efficacy of the training program, this paper seeks to establish the effectiveness of the LQMS training offered by the SRL Uganda. Method: We evaluated the effectiveness of LQMS training within the Uganda's SRL network for courses offered during the period 2017 and 2021 for participants from the Southern and East African sub-Saharan region. Results: In 2017 and 2021, respectively, test results from 10/17 and 9/17 showed overall post-test scores above 80%. Of the 18 labs evaluated, 14 showed improvement; of these, 7 labs were from the Eastern region and the other 7 were from Southern Africa; one facility in this region also maintained its accreditation. In the post-evaluation assessment, attendees of the LQMS course gave feedback of strongly agree and agree variety. Conclusion: More SRL Uganda network laboratories in the regions achieved a 5-star SLIPTA level rating and among these, 5 NTRLs got ISO 15189:2012 accredited by the end of 2021, while one maintained its accreditation status. This proves that the Laboratory Quality Management System training program was an effective tool in improving the quality of laboratory services, work practices, and processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: For 5 years, routine genotyping has been performed for selected blood groups of blood donors in the Copenhagen Capital Region, Denmark. The result is summarized in the following. Materials and Methods: Genotyping was carried out by an external service provider using the competitive allele specific PCR (KASP) technology. The genotypes were returned to the blood bank and translated into phenotypes by a proprietary IT application. Results: In total, 65 alleles from 16 blood group systems (ABO, MNS, Rh, Lutheran, Kell, Duffy, Kidd, Diego, Yt, Dombrock, Colton, Landsteiner‐Wiener, Cromer, Knops, Vel, secretor status) and the HPA1, HPA5 and HPA15 antigens were interrogated. After translation, phenotypes were imported into the laboratory information management system of the blood bank. The results from 31,538 genotyped blood donors were used to calculate the allele frequencies for a Danish blood donor population. ABO genotyping was done for sample ID purposes. Determination of the 1061delC single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (NM_020469.2), most frequently characteristic of ABO*A2, was validated against a series of 1287 samples with Dolichos biflorus lectin determination of the A1 phenotype. Conclusion: We report allele frequencies and phenotype frequencies for 16 blood groups from a total of 31,538 genotyped blood donors. Blood products were supplied from a total of 64,312 active blood donors, and of these active blood donors 25,396 (39.5%) were genotyped. These donors represent a valuable resource for patient treatment. This genotyping has enabled the provision of rare genotyped donor blood for patients with alloantibodies and rare reagent cells for serology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: National Health Service England issued a Patient Safety Alert in 2014 mandating all acute Trusts in England to implement Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) warning stage results and to do so using a standardised algorithm. In 2021, the Renal and Pathology Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) teams found significant variation in AKI reporting across the UK. A survey was designed to capture information on the entire AKI detection and alerting process to investigate the potential sources of this unwarranted variation. Methods: In August 2021, an online survey consisting of 54 questions was made available to all UK laboratories. The questions covered creatinine assays, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), the AKI algorithm and AKI reporting. Results: We received 101 responses from laboratories. Data were reviewed for England only – 91 laboratories. Findings included that 72% used enzymatic creatinine. In addition, 7 manufacturer-analytical platforms, 15 different LIMS and a wide range of creatinine reference ranges were in use. In 68% of laboratories, the AKI algorithm was installed by the LIMS provider. Marked variation was found in the minimum age of AKI reporting with only 18% starting at the recommended 1 month/28-days. Some 89% phoned all new AKI2s and AKI3s, as per AKI guidance while 76% provided comments/hyperlinks in reports. Conclusions: The national survey has identified laboratory practices that potentially contribute to unwarranted variation in the reporting of AKI in the England. This has formed the basis for improvement work to remedy the situation, including national recommendations, included within this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the performance of two latest generation matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) systems in routine laboratory settings, focusing on turnaround time (TAT), time to results (TTR), hands-on time, and identification rate. Methods: We conducted a time and motion study on three workflow scenarios to simulate different laboratory settings. Overall, 618 bacterial isolates from a tertiary hospital's laboratory were processed using the VITEK MS PRIME (bioMérieux) and the MALDI Biotyper sirius (Bruker Daltonics) and their corresponding databases VITEK IVD Database 3.2 and MBT reference library 12. Results: The target preparation process showed no significant difference in TAT, but the Biotyper workflow had a shorter hands-on time by 3 to 6 min. In the measurement process, TTR was three to five times shorter for the Biotyper sirius while hands-on time was significantly shorter for VITEK MS PRIME (approximately 1.5 min per target). The identification rate without retesting was 97.9% for VITEK MS PRIME and 98.9% for Biotyper sirius. Both systems achieved 100% agreement at genus and 96.2% at species level. Conclusion: Both systems exhibited excellent identification rates for routine bacterial isolates. Due to its high speed, the Biotyper sirius is suited for laboratories with high sample throughput and a workflow designed for processing larger batches. The VITEK MS PRIME, with its "load and go" system accommodating up to 16 targets, reduces hands-on time, making it a reasonable choice for laboratories with fewer identifications overall but a higher number of targets and a workflow designed for parallel processing on different workstations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

STUDY QUESTION Which add-ons are safe and effective to be used in ART treatment? SUMMARY ANSWER Forty-two recommendations were formulated on the use of add-ons in the diagnosis of fertility problems, the IVF laboratory and clinical management of IVF treatment. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The innovative nature of ART combined with the extremely high motivation of the patients has opened the door to the wide application of what has become known as 'add-ons' in reproductive medicine. These supplementary options are available to patients in addition to standard fertility procedures, typically incurring an additional cost. A diverse array of supplementary options is made available, encompassing tests, drugs, equipment, complementary or alternative therapies, laboratory procedures, and surgical interventions. These options share the common aim of stating to enhance pregnancy or live birth rates, mitigate the risk of miscarriage, or expedite the time to achieving pregnancy. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION ESHRE aimed to develop clinically relevant and evidence-based recommendations focusing on the safety and efficacy of add-ons currently used in fertility procedures in order to improve the quality of care for patients with infertility. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS ESHRE appointed a European multidisciplinary working group consisting of practising clinicians, embryologists, and researchers who have demonstrated leadership and expertise in the care and research of infertility. Patient representatives were included in the working group. To ensure that the guidelines are evidence-based, the literature identified from a systematic search was reviewed and critically appraised. In the absence of any clear scientific evidence, recommendations were based on the professional experience and consensus of the working group. The guidelines are thus based on the best available evidence and expert agreement. Prior to publication, the guidelines were reviewed by 46 independent international reviewers. A total of 272 comments were received and incorporated where relevant. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The multidisciplinary working group formulated 42 recommendations in three sections; diagnosis and diagnostic tests, laboratory tests and interventions, and clinical management. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Of the 42 recommendations, none could be based on high-quality evidence and only four could be based on moderate-quality evidence, implicating that 95% of the recommendations are supported only by low-quality randomized controlled trials, observational data, professional experience, or consensus of the development group. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These guidelines offer valuable direction for healthcare professionals who are responsible for the care of patients undergoing ART treatment for infertility. Their purpose is to promote safe and effective ART treatment, enabling patients to make informed decisions based on realistic expectations. The guidelines aim to ensure that patients are fully informed about the various treatment options available to them and the likelihood of any additional treatment or test to improve the chance of achieving a live birth. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) All costs relating to the development process were covered from ESHRE funds. There was no external funding of the development process or manuscript production. K.L. reports speakers fees from Merck and was part of a research study by Vitrolife (unpaid). T.E. reports consulting fees from Gynemed, speakers fees from Gynemed and is part of the scientific advisory board of Hamilton Thorne. N.P.P. reports grants from Merck Serono, Ferring Pharmaceutical, Theramex, Gedeon Richter, Organon, Roche, IBSA and Besins Healthcare, speakers fees from Merck Serono, Ferring Pharmaceutical, Theramex, Gedeon Richter, Organon, Roche, IBSA and Besins Healthcare. S.R.H. declares being managing director of Fertility Europe, a not-for-profit organization receiving financial support from ESHRE. I.S. is a scientific advisor for and has stock options from Alife Health, is co-founder of IVFvision LTD (unpaid) and received speakers' fee from the 2023 ART Young Leader Prestige workshop in China. A.P. reports grants from Gedeon Richter, Ferring Pharmaceuticals and Merck A/S, consulting fees from Preglem, Novo Nordisk, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Gedeon Richter, Cryos and Merck A/S, speakers fees from Gedeon Richter, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Merck A/S, Theramex and Organon, travel fees from Gedeon Richter. The other authors disclosed no conflicts of interest. DISCLAIMER This Good Practice Recommendations (GPRs) document represents the views of ESHRE, which are the result of consensus between the relevant ESHRE stakeholders and are based on the scientific evidence available at the time of preparation. ESHRE GPRs should be used for information and educational purposes. They should not be interpreted as setting a standard of care or bedeemedinclusive of all proper methods of care, or be exclusive of other methods of care reasonably directed to obtaining the same results.Theydo not replace the need for application of clinical judgement to each individual presentation, or variations based on locality and facility type. Furthermore, ESHRE GPRs do not constitute or imply the endorsement, or favouring, of any of the included technologies by ESHRE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a collection of abstracts from the 20th Congress of the European Society of Toxicologic Pathology. The abstracts cover a wide range of topics related to pathology and toxicology research, including the chronic toxicity and carcinogenicity of a food additive, the safety and bio-integration of implants, microscopic observations in monkeys, hepatocyte proliferation in liver injury models, and a rare type of adenocarcinoma in rat mammary glands. The document also discusses the development and evaluation of a drug for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, recommendations for digital pathology in toxicologic studies, the occurrence of MEN-like syndrome in rats, and the engineering of in vitro models of the blood-brain barrier. Additionally, it highlights the activities and goals of the Pathology 2.0 working group and presents studies on various topics such as vascular access systems, real-time messaging of diagnoses, and the evaluation of toxicology data. The studies emphasize the potential of artificial intelligence and molecular biology techniques in improving toxicity evaluation in preclinical studies. [Extracted from the article]

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to determine the factors that increase the risk of fatal thrombotic events in hospitalized coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients receiving standard therapy according to the National Clinical Practice Guidelines (National Guidelines). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this case–control study, cases included 83 adults with COVID-19 who had died from thrombosis and controls comprised 83 COVID-19 patients with comparable criteria who survived. Data was abstracted by reviewing the medical records of selected patients and analyzed using Statistica. Parametric and non-parametric tests, as appropriate, were used to compare continuos variables between cases and controls, whereas Chi-square test was employed to compare categorical variables. Odds ratio (OR) was also calculated to measure the strength of association of case status and various independent variables. RESULTS: Fatal outcomes were higher in patients with chronic tubulointerstitial nephritis, (OR = 2.4, 95% CI 1.2–4.9); obesity, (OR = 2.1, 95% CI 0.5–8.6); and coronary heart disease (OR = 1.6, 95% CI 0.8–3.2). In the group with a D-dimer level from 250 to 1000 ng/ml, a statistically significant moderate positive correlation was found between the day of death and D-dimer level (P = 0.026). The lack of use of the PADUA Prediction Score for the risk of venous thromboembolism scale (PADUA Scale) and control of laboratory parameters (APTT and D-dimer) were associated with increased risk of fatal outcome. Overall, 19.2% cases and 8.4% of controls had no coagulation control; (OR = 2.6, 95% CI 1–6.7). CONCLUSION: Chronic tubulointerstitial nephritis, obesity, and coronary heart disease were associatied with fatal thrombosis. A slight elevation of D-dimer level, lack of the PADUA Scale and laboratory monitoring in the management of hospitalized patients with COVID-19. was associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the popularity of anhydrous and oxygen-free glove boxes in chemical laboratories has been increasing. Glove boxes are widely used in organic synthesis, lithium battery manufacturing and research, OLED (organic light-emitting diode) encapsulation, and storage and packaging of reagents sensitive to water and oxygen. During the use and maintenance of glove boxes, many hazards are involved, such as strong reducing metal reagents, gas cylinders, and flammable waste. There are potential safety hazards that easily lead to accidents. This paper introduces safe operation methods of anhydrous and oxygen-free glove boxes and new management methods of glove boxes explored by the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering of Nanjing University. This college has pioneered the production of a video on the safe use of glove boxes and its application to safety training. It has also developed and implemented a method for the record of glove-box use and refreshed purification column materials. This method has achieved good operational results and can provide a reference for safety management of glove boxes in similar chemical laboratories both at home and abroad. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article provides an overview of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) regulations and related public standards, focusing on practices relevant to analytical and bioanalytical chemists. Topics discussed include GLP in drug development and registration of other products, analytical and bioanalytical chemists supporting GLP studies, and GLP principles.

Complete diagnosis of lung cancer based on cytological material Piotr Wi'sniewski 1; Wlodzimierz T. Olszewski 1; Maciej Glogowski 2; Andrzej Tysarowski 3;... 1 Department of Tumor Pathomorphology, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of... The cytopathological diagnosis of lung cancer has become a multistep process, beginning with morphology and immunocytochemistry, followed by molecular characterisation in nonsquamous non-small cell lung carcinoma. The patient subsequently underwent thyroid ultrasound which revealed heterogenous, poorly circumscribed nodule in the right thyroid lobe and cytological evaluation of the fine needle aspiration biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of a medullary thyroid carcinoma. Patients with higher tumor cell percentages and tumor-to-immune cell ratio had worse survival outcomes. Analysis of the number of CTCs in various morphological forms of the tumor showed that 4-6 cells were detected in squamous cell carcinoma, 6 cells and 2-14 cells of urothelial carcinoma (2-4 cells. on the II art., 7-14 cells. on the III art.; average value = 2.43). The role of fine-needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of bone and soft tissue lesions Senay Erdogan-Durmus 1; Sila Ozlem Aktas 2; Cem Comunoglu 2; Rahime Tanritanir 2 1 Cytopathology Division, Pathology Department, Prof. Dr. Cemil Tascioglu City Hospital, Ista... B Aim b : The aim is to evaluate the diagnostic utility of fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in diagnosis of bone/soft tissue lesions by comparing the cytological-histopathological diagnosis in a large group. [Extracted from the article]

This document discusses the standardization of pediatric serum phosphate reference intervals in Wales using an indirect data-mining approach. The study was prompted by the need to maintain serum phosphate levels within the age-specific reference interval for children receiving burosumab therapy for X-linked hypophosphataemia (XLH). The researchers used data from the laboratory information management system to establish age-related reference distributions for phosphate levels. The resulting reference intervals were compared to existing guidelines and were found to be significantly lower in the youngest age groups but aligned with adolescents. The study highlights the importance of using locally specific reference intervals and the utility of indirect data-mining methods in establishing these intervals. [Extracted from the article]

Development of laboratory safety programs often focuses on the tools and policies needed to protect people, the environment, and equipment. Tools and policies are unlikely to result in meaningful positive safety outcomes alone. Effective engagement is a critical component, and this can only be achieved by nurturing an effective safety culture. Merriam-Webster offers one definition of culture as, "the set of shared attitudes, values, goals, and practices that characterizes an institution or organization" (emphasis added), and employee engagement and leadership support are equally critical to safer laboratories. This commentary begins with a discussion of how human beings perceive work, individual and organizational performance heuristics, and the ways in which policies and procedures influence individual behavior and how individual engagement in safety programs can influence organizational change, resulting in evolutionary improvements in approaches to laboratory safety. We then offer examples of tools and engagement that have been used at Dow to achieve those goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Because of the essential nature of the work of medical laboratory professionals, continuing development in knowledge and skills is indispensable. The study aimed at identifying and prioritizing the development and training needs of medical laboratory professionals in Ghana. This is expected to help in developing focused continuing professional development (CPD) that meets the needs of practitioners as well as the changing medical trends. Methods: An online cross-sectional survey in February 2022 using a structured questionnaire was conducted. Respondents were asked questions that collected demographic and work-related data about them, their participation, preference, and challenges in being part of CPDs. Finally, a list of topics based on (i) quality management systems, (ii) technical competence, (iii) laboratory management, leadership, and coaching, (iv) pathophysiology, and (iv) data interpretation and research were asked with the option to rate them on a 3-point scale (most, moderate, and least) in order of importance. Results: A total of 316 medical laboratory professionals participated in the study. Overall, the most frequently selected topics for training based on domains for CPD training and ranking as most important were (i) quality management systems, (mean = 80.59 ± 9.024; 95% CI = 73.04–88.13); (ii) pathophysiology, data interpretation, and research (mean = 78.0 ± 6.973; 95% CI = 73.97–82.03); (iii) technical competence (mean = 73.97 ± 10.65; 95% CI = 66.35–81.59); and (iv) laboratory management, leadership, and coaching (mean = 72.82 ± 9.719; 95% CI = 67.44–78.2). The factors affecting the choice of training needs included the medical laboratory professionals' current place of work, years in service, the reason for attending CPD activities, the period for attending the last CPD, being in a supervisory role, and the number of staff being supervised. Face-to-face presentations, training workshops, and hands-on workshops were the most preferred modes of CPD delivery with financial implications and workload/time constraints being the main challenges impeding CPD participation. Conclusion: The identified needs will help in developing CPD programs that address what medical laboratory professionals prioritize as training needs. Stakeholders should incorporate these training needs into future programs and address the challenges highlighted in this study to have more relevant training for medical laboratory professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

B Alison Cleaton b , I Emma Burrows, Kimberley Robinson, Michael Richardson, Deborah Pritchard, Tracey Rees i I Welsh Blood Service, Ely Valley Road, Talbot Green, UK i Regular HLA antibody testing is undertaken for patients awaiting renal transplantation, using LABScreen™ HLA antibody assays. Three of these patients were HLA antibody negative and one patient was HLA antibody positive but HLA DSA negative. The HLA antibody results from samples prior to and following COVID-19 infection were analysed for changes in existing HLA antibody levels (increased Luminex Median Fluorescent Intensity (MFI) values), or expanded antibody profiles (increased cRF). P11 Improving the Laboratory Turnaround Time for Live Kidney Donor Transplant Compatibility T... B Deborah Pritchard b I Welsh Transplantation Laboratory, Pontyclun, UK i Immunological compatibility testing for potential live kidney donors and patients requires multiple tests on patient and donor samples (HLA typing, HLA antibody testing, crossmatch assessment). [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: accreditation is the most effective approach to ensure the quality of services. Laboratory performance can be evaluated using the World Health Organization (WHO)-SLIPTA checklist, which checks a laboratory's compliance with ISO 15189 on a five-star score scale and improved using the SLMTA approach. Compliance is assessed by an external body and can result in accreditation. In this paper, we describe the steps taken by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) HIV Laboratory, Alupe, a resource-limited public entity, towards accreditation, and discuss the lessons learned. Methods: the laboratory adopted a SLMTA-SLIPTA approach that included targeted mentorship, on-site workshops, and training. Mentorship-based interventions were used to establish a robust quality management system. Targeted mentorship, on-site workshops, and training were conducted between September 2015 and July 2016. Audits used the SLIPTA checklist to detect gaps in 12 quality system essentials. Performance indicators including turnaround time, external quality assurance, sample rejection rates, and corrective actions were tracked. An external assessment by the national accreditation body was conducted between September 2016 and November 2016. Results: training and mentorship-based interventions were successfully conducted. Quality management systems aligned with ISO 15189 were established. Baseline, midterm, and exit audits yielded scores of 47%, 75%, and 94% respectively. Early infant diagnosis external quality assurance scores were 100% in 2014-2016, while average viral load scores were at 60%, 70% and 90% during the same period. Turnaround time from September 2015 surpassed the 80% target. Accreditation was awarded in March 2017. Conclusion: the SLMTA-SLIPTA approach is suitable for quality improvement in resource-limited laboratories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

10.1038/s41559-023-02041-9 Graph "we unpack ... different potential contributions to insect biodiversity trends across urbanization gradients, and consider how ongoing and future changes in cities could either serve to enhance or dampen urban insect biodiversity." Graph B Tristan A. Barley b , a Ph.D. student in entomology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, studies the effects of co-locating pollinator habitat at solar facilities on insect biodiversity, as well as competition between honey bees and wild bees. By Amy Morey Graph "we report for the first time the presence of I Troglohyphantes i on a major Mediterranean island: Corsica (France)" B Isaia, M. S. Mammola, M.A. Arnedo, and L. Esposito. [Extracted from the article]

• 24Model-WBA accident analysis program is proposed to clarify the accident evolution path. • Quantitative analysis and statistics of 64 typical university laboratory accidents. • Effectively identify the common problems in colleges and universities at this stage, and put forward preventive measures. Introduction: In recent years, with the rapid development of university laboratory construction, frequent laboratory accidents have aroused widespread concern. There is an urgent need to improve laboratory safety management's effectiveness further, enhance laboratory accident prevention ability, and reduce the occurrence of accidents. Method: Based on the accident causation theory, this paper uses the accident analysis path of 24Model and the logical idea of WBA (Why-Because-Analysis) to statistically analyze the causative factors of 64 typical college laboratory fire and explosion accidents and find out the defects of current college laboratory management. Results: The study showed that unsafe human actions at the individual level were the most critical factors affecting laboratory safety management, with a high frequency of violations of experimental procedures (105 times) and managers' failure to perform their supervisory duties (98 times); low safety awareness and insufficient safety knowledge among laboratory personnel were key factors triggering unsafe actions. At the organizational level, the lack of training programs (92 times) and the lack of systematic procedures (106 times) are the weaknesses of the laboratory safety management system in general in all universities; the lack of safety culture construction is the root cause of laboratory management deficiencies. Conclusions: Based on the above statistical results, and taking into account the characteristics of university laboratories themselves, the root causes of poor safety are specifically analyzed and preventive measures are proposed in six areas to address the key causes of accidents. Practical Applications: The results of this study are essential for improving the ability to prevent accidents in flammable and explosive laboratories in universities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Duckweeds, a family of floating aquatic plants, are ideal model plants for laboratory experiments because they are small, easy to cultivate, and reproduce quickly. Duckweed cultivation, for the purposes of scientific research, requires that lineages are maintained as continuous populations of asexually propagating fronds, so research teams need to develop optimized cultivation conditions and coordinate maintenance tasks for duckweed stocks. Additionally, computational image analysis is proving to be a powerful duckweed research tool, but researchers lack software tools to assist with data collection and storage in a way that can feed into scripted data analysis. We set out to support these processes using a laboratory management software called Aquarium, an open-source application developed to manage laboratory inventory and plan experiments. We developed a suite of duckweed cultivation and experimentation operation types in Aquarium, which we then integrated with novel data analysis scripts. We then demonstrated the efficacy of our system with a series of image-based growth assays, and explored how our framework could be used to develop optimized cultivation protocols. We discuss the unexpected advantages and the limitations of this approach, suggesting areas for future software tool development. In its current state, our approach helps to bridge the gap between laboratory implementation and data analytical software for duckweed biologists and builds a foundation for future development of end-to-end computational tools in plant science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a summary of what the author wrote 30 years ago about data integrity. He discusses the aim of the first column which was to consider data integrity within an automated chromatography laboratory, sample labels and other disasters, and analytical instrument qualification. Also mentioned are blank forms and master templates and laboratory information management systems (LIMS) projects and data integrity.

P80 - Characterization of the oral health status and literacy among a sample of Portuguese el... Hélder Costa1, Nélio Veiga1,2, Patrícia Correia1,2, Patrícia Couto1,2, Maria José Correia1,2,... 1 Faculty of Dental Medicine - Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Viseu, Portugal; 2 Center fo... Correspondence: Hélder Costa I BMC Proceedings 2023, i B 17(9): b P80 B Background b Health literacy is a main factor in health for its improvement, allowing the individuals to have a greater capacity to engage and participate in collective health promotion actions. Poster Presentations Session 1 - Translational Care P1 - Executive functioning training in typically developing adolescents: data review from the... Jorge Amorim1, Soraia Saramago1, Joana R. Rato,1 and Alexandre Castro-Caldas1 1 Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Health, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Lisboa,... Correspondence: Jorge Amorim (s-jomiamorim@ucp.pt) I BMC Proceedings 2023, i B 17(9): b P1 B Background b Executive functions (EF) are top-down cognitive processes that affect different life aspects, such as academic success, health management, and, at a last level, public safety. P94 - "Ser Criança" Project - oral health literacy strategies for the vulnerable children and... Nelio Veiga1,2, Mario Oliveira1, Beatriz Dias1, Ana Sofia Duarte1,2, Maria Correia1,2, Anna... 1 Faculty of Dental Medicine - Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Viseu, Portugal; 2 Center fo... Correspondence: Nelio Veiga I BMC Proceedings 2023, i B 17(9): b P94 B Background b Over the years, there has been an increasing and effective integration and participation of oral health in the concept of general health. [Extracted from the article]

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is among the top ten global public health threats, demanding immediate attention and action [[1]]. Active AMR surveillance through periodic national AMR prevalence surveys offers a reliable, direct measurement of the prevalence of AMR for countries lacking high-quality and high-coverage surveillance systems. The estimates from Balasubramanian et al. [[2]] further our understanding of the global magnitude of AMR in hospital settings, while highlighting the unreliability of existing AMR surveillance data. Only GBD estimated the burden of AMR in communities [[3]], although their estimates do not stratify AMR burden according to hospital and community settings. [Extracted from the article]

Purpose: The genus Trichosporon, which is a yeast-like basidiomycete, is ubiquitous in nature and a part of human microbiota. It's an oppurtunistic fungal pathogen, which was once rare, but increasing dramatically recently, leading to fatal infections. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, and antifungal susceptibility of clinical Trichosporon spp. isolates, and to determine whether there was a change in incidence during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective crosssectional descriptive study, conducted between January 1, 2013 and February 5, 2023. Cultures which Trichosporon spp. isolated (n=125) were screened, and those met the eligibility criteria were included (n=77). Identification, antifungal susceptibility test results, age, gender records were identified from Microbiology Laboratory Information Management System. Results: 97.4% of the isolates were Trichosporon asahii, and 2.6% were Trichosporon mucoides. The most frequent isolation period was the 2016 and 2019 year group (71.4%), not during the COVID-19 Pandemics (19.5%). The most common sample type was urine (58.4%), of whom predominantly (58.4%) hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit. Amphotericin B MICs were ≤1µg/ml in 68.9% of the isolates. Fluconazole and voriconazole MICs were ≤1µg/ml in 20.0% and 94.8%, respectively. 59.7% of the isolates had a MIC of ≥4µg/ml for flucytosine. Micafungin and caspofungin MICs were ≥4µg/ml in 88.3% and 92.2% of the isolates, respectively. Voriconazole had the strongest in vitro activity, and amphotericin B had lower MICs than expected. The combination therapy of voriconazole and amphotericin B could be a therapeutic option in this setting, as well as monotherapy of voriconazole. Conclusion: Trichosporon spp. isolated in clinical specimens and their antifungal susceptibility depend on the geographic region and the anatomic site. Identifying local data will contribute to both the management of these patients, and surveillance studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]