Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

A NEW THRESHOLD FOR APPENDICULAR LEAN MASS DISCRIMINATES MUSCLE WEAKNESS IN WOMEN WITH HIP FRACTURE: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY. Objective To investigate the relationship between measures of muscle mass and grip strength in women with subacute hip fracture. Firstly, we aimed to assess the capability of the current thresholds for appendicular lean mass (aLM), aLM-to-body-mass-index ratio and aLM/height2 to separate weak and non-weak women. Secondly, we aimed to explore alternative thresholds for the 3 measures of muscle mass to discriminate weakness. Design Cross-sectional study of 160 women with hip fracture admitted to a rehabilitation hospital. We assessed aLM by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and grip strength by a Jamar hand dynamometer. Weakness was defined as grip strength <16 kg. Results Weakness was not significantly associated with aLM <15.02 kg, aLM-to-body-mass-index ratio <0.512 or aLM/height2 <5.67 kg/m2. For aLM (but not for the other 2 measures of muscle mass) an alternative threshold (11.87 kg instead of 15.02 kg) significantly discriminated weakness: χ2 (1, n=160)=10.77 (p=0.001). The association between aLM <11.87 kg and grip strength <16 kg persisted after adjustment for age and body mass index: odds ratio =2.50 (95% CI 1.17-5.34; p=0.018). Conclusions Data suggests that the current thresholds for measures of muscle mass do not discriminate weakness in women with subacute hip fracture. For aLM an alternative cutoff-point actually separated weak and non-weak women. CORRESPONDING AUTHOR: Dr. Marco Di Monaco, Osteoporosis Research Center, Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Presidio Sanitario San Camillo, Strada Santa Margherita 136, 10131, Torino, Italy. Tel. 0039 011 8199411; Fax 0039 011 8193012; Email Marco.di.monaco@alice.it,m.di-monaco@h-sancamillo.to.it DISCLOSURES: All the authors have no conflicts of interest. The study was not funded. The authors had no financial benefits for the study. The results have not been previously presented. Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Letter to the Editor Regarding the Article "Dynamic Ultrasound Imaging for the Diagnosis of Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior (SLAP) lesion" No abstract available

Authors' Response to the Letter to the Editor on "Dynamic Ultrasound Imaging for the Diagnosis of Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior (SLAP) Lesion" No abstract available

EMG Evaluation of Bodyweight Exercise Progression in a Validated ACL Injury Rehabilitation Program: Cross-sectional Study Objectives Regaining muscle strength is essential for successful outcome after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, why progression of exercise intensity in ACL injury rehabilitation is important. Thus, this study evaluated hamstring and quadriceps muscle activity progression during bodyweight exercises used in a validated ACL injury rehabilitation program. Design The study design involved single-occasion repeated measures in a randomized manner. Twenty healthy athletes (nine females) performed nine bodyweight exercises (three exercises per rehabilitation phase). Surface electromyography signals were recorded for hamstring (semitendinosus, biceps femoris) and quadriceps (vastus medialis, vastus lateralis) muscles, and normalized to isometric peak EMG (nEMG). Results Hamstring muscle activity did not increase from one rehabilitation phase to the next, ranging between 8-45% nEMG for semitendinosus and 11-54% nEMG for biceps femoris. Only one exercise (Cook hip lift) exhibited hamstring muscle activities above 60% nEMG. By contrast, quadriceps muscle activity increased, and late phase exercises displayed high nEMG (vastus lateralis >60% and vastus medialis >90% nEMG). Conclusion The examined bodyweight exercises did not progress for hamstring muscle activity but successfully progressed for quadriceps muscles activity. This study highlights the need for consensus on exercise selection when targeting the hamstring muscles in the rehabilitation after ACL injury. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives License 4.0 (CCBY-NC-ND), where it is permissible to download and share the work provided it is properly cited. The work cannot be changed in any way or used commercially without permission from the journal. Conflicts of interest None declared. Funding None declared. Corresponding author: Mette Kreutzfeldt Zebis E-mail corresponding author: mzeb@kp.dk Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Differences in the mitochondrial and lipid droplet morphology in female office workers with trapezius myalgia, compared to healthy controls. A muscle biopsy study Objective Trapezius myalgia, or more specific, myofascial dysfunction of the upper trapezius mainly affects women performing jobs requiring prolonged low level activation of the muscle. This continuous low muscle load can be accompanied by a shift to a more anaerobic energy metabolism, causing pain. To investigate whether morphological signs of an impaired aerobic metabolism are present in female office workers with trapezius myalgia. Design Muscle biopsy analysis, using electron and light microscopy, was performed to compare mitochondrial and fat droplet morphology, and irregular muscle fibers, between female office workers with (n=17) and without (n= 15) work-related trapezius myalgia. Results The patient group showed a significantly higher mean area (P=0.023) and proportion (P=0.029) for the subsarcolemmal and intermyofibrillar mitochondria respectively, compared to the control group. A significantly lower mean area of subsarcolemmal lipid droplets was found in the patient group (P=0.015), which also displayed a significantly higher proportion of lipid droplets touching the mitochondria (P=0.035). A significantly higher amount of muscle fibers with COX deficient areas were found in the patient group (P=0.030). Conclusion The results of the present study may be indicatve for an impaired oxidative metabolism in work-related trapezius myalgia. However, additional research is necessary to confirm this hypothesis. Corresponding author: Kayleigh De Meulemeester Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent (Belgium) Kayleigh.demeulemeester@ugent.be No conflicts of interest were present in writing this article. Kayleigh De Meulemeester is funded by BOF- UGent 01N04215. Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

The Rehabilitation Research Experience for Medical Students (RREMS): A 10-year review The purpose of this project was to evaluate the 10-year outcomes from the Rehabilitation Research Experience for Medical Students (RREMS). A target benchmark was 1 high quality output per student. Students were required to devise a research project and work full time with a mentor at an approved sponsor site for 8 weeks. Longitudinal surveys were used to collect data about research outputs, match results, and decisions about whether to pursue academic careers. From 2008 to 2017, 73 out of 153 (48%) applicants were awarded summer externships. Residency match results included: PM&R (45%), Internal Medicine (17%), Emergency Medicine (8%), Orthopedic Surgery (6%), Neurology (6%), Psychiatry (6%), OBGYN (6%), Pediatrics (4%), and Anesthesia (2%). The RREMS was successful in exceeding the target benchmark for quality scholarly output which included 73 oral presentations at the AAP meeting, 63 published and 20 in-review manuscripts directly related to summer research, 5 book chapters, and 51 published and 20 in-review manuscripts that were indirectly related to summer research. A total of 77% reported that the RREMS positively influenced their decision to pursue research in their future career, and 70% endorsed interest in becoming a clinician-scientist. Correspondence should be directed to: Brad E. Dicianno, MD, Human Engineering Research Laboratories, Bakery Square, 6425 Penn Avenue, Suite 400, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, 412-822-3700, (dicianno@pitt.edu) Disclosures: This manuscript has not been published and is not under consideration for publication elsewhere. Data from this manuscript was accepted as part of an abstract to be presented at the 2019 Association for Academic Physiatrists Annual Meeting in Puerto Rico. This project was funded by the Association of Academic Physiatrists, the Foundation for PM&R and the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation. Financial disclosure statements have been obtained, and no conflicts of interest have been reported by the authors or by any individuals in control of the content of this article. Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

The Validity of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment for Moderate to Severe Traumatic Brain Injury Patients: A Pilot Study Objective To pilot the use of Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MOCA) as a quick clinical screen for cognitive assessment in traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients. Design The study recruited 61 participants with moderate to severe TBI presenting to a tertiary rehabilitation center under the Brain Injury Program. A MOCA questionnaire and neuropsychological battery (Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status [RBANS] and Color Trails Test[CTT]) were administered to participants who had completed inpatient rehabilitation. Results Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis for the MOCA revealed an optimal balance of sensitivity and specificity at 24/25 to discriminate participants who were classified as less than 5th centile on the Total Scale Index on the RBANS. This achieved a sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of 73.9%, 86.5%, 77.3% and 84.2% respectively. ROC analysis for the trail making subtest of the MOCA achieved a sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of 79.4%, 74.1%, 79.4% and 74.1% in identifying patients classified as less than 5th centile on CTT Part 2. Conclusion The use of MOCA displayed good validity in identifying patients with clinically significant impairment on a standard neuropsychological assessment battery in the study population. However, it may lack sensitivity for estimating mild levels of impairment. All correspondence and requests for reprints should be addressed to: Matthew Rong Jie Tay, Tan Tock Seng Hospital Rehabilitation Center, c/o TTSH Rehabilitation Center @ Ang Mo Kio-Thye Hua Kwan (AMK-THK), 17, Ang Mo Kio Ave 9, Singapore 569766, Republic of Singapore. The authors confirmed that with regard to this submitted article, we have none of the following disclosures: competing interests, funding or grants or equipment from any source, and financial benefits to the authors, nor have we previously published any part or whole of this original work. Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Early detection of diabetic polyneuropathy using paired stimulation studies of the sensory nerves Objective This study seeks to use the RRP, a sensitive parameter for detecting early change in peripheral polyneuropathies, as a tool for early detection of diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN). Design The RRP of the median and sural sensory nerves were measured in 57 diabetic patients (male 31, female 26) and 23 healthy controls (male 16, female 7). The shortest inter-stimulus interval, where the latency of the response to the second stimulus recovers to normal, was defined as the RRP. Results The RRP of the median and sural nerves were significantly longer in diabetic patients (3.6 msec, p<0.001 and 3.8 msec, p<0.001, respectively) than in the control group (3.0 msec in both nerves). RRP values of both nerves were also significantly prolonged compared with the control group, even in diabetic patients without DPN based on conventional conduction studies (3.3 msec, p=0.002 for median nerve; 3.5 msec, p<0.001 for sural nerve) or without any clinical symptoms and signs (3.3 msec, p=0.007 for median nerve; 3.5 msec, p=0.001 for sural nerve). Conclusion The RRP was prolonged in diabetic patients even before other electrophysiologic abnormalities or clinical findings appeared. These results suggest that the RRP can be a possible early indicator of DPN. Corresponding author: Hee-Kyu Kwon, M.D., Ph.D Address: Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, Graduate School, Korea University, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea. E-mail: hkkwon@korea.ac.kr Disclosure statements: There is no conflicts of interest and no funding was provided for the study. The abstract of the study was presented at the 46th Annual Meeting of the Korean Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine on Oct. 27th, 2018, in Seoul, Korea. Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Needle EMG, a jigsaw to disclose lipid storage myopathy due to Multiple Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency, a case report Multiple acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MADD) is a rare autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism. The late-onset MADD is frequently caused by mutations in ETFDH gene. Due to its clinical heterogeneity, diagnosis and treatment of late-onset MADD are often delayed. The authors described a previously healthy 40-year-old Thai female presenting with subacute severe weakness of bulbar-limb muscles and elevated serum CK. The authors emphasized the importance of needle EMG and prompt muscle histopathological evaluation, which rapidly led to the diagnosis and riboflavin therapy, resulting in a dramatic and rapid improvement before genetic study disclosed mutation in ETFDH gene. Corresponding author: Nath Pasutharnchat, MD Address: Division of Neurology, Bhumisiri Building, floor 7 zone c, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand 10330. Email: nathpasu@hotmail.com Email: one.nasawan@gmail.com Email: jakkrit.a@chula.ac.th Email: nathpasu@hotmail.com Email: sungkomj@hotmail.com No competing interests No funding has been received for the conduct of this study and preparation of this manuscript No financial benefits to the authors Previous presentation for poster session at: 17th Asian and Oceanian Myology Center Meeting(AOMC), July 27 – July 29, 2018 Kuala Lumper, Malaysia Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Energy Cost of Slow and Normal Gait Speeds in Low and Normally Functioning Adults Objective Slow walking speed paired with increased energy cost is a strong predictor for mortality and disability in older adults but has yet to be examined in a heterogenous sample (i.e. age, gender, disease status). The purpose of this study was to examine energy cost of slow and normal walking speeds among low- and normal-functioning adults. Design Adults 20-90 years old were recruited for this study. Participants completed a 10-m functional walk test at a self-selected normal walking speed, and were categorized as low-functioning (LF) or normal-functioning (NF) based upon expected age and gender adjusted average gait speed. Participants completed two successive 3-minute walking stages, at slower than normal and normal walking speeds, respectively. Gas exchange was measured, and energy cost per meter (ml.kg-1.m-1) was calculated for both walking speeds. Results Energy cost per meter was higher (p<0.0001) in the LF group (n=76; female=59.21%; age 61.13±14.68 years (mean±SD)) during the slower than normal and normal (p<0.0001) walking speed bouts compared with the NF group (n=42; female=54.76%; age 51.55±19.51 years). Conclusion Low-functioning adults rely on greater energy cost per meter of walking at slower and normal speeds. This has implications for total daily energy expenditure in low-functioning, adult populations. Corresponding Author: Scott J. Strath; sstrath@uwm.edu Author Disclosures: The authors have no competing interests. This work was supported by funding from the NIH 1R21HD080828. Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Health Profession

Student american veterinary medical association duty hours guidelines Stéphie-Anne C Duliepre, Ashika Seshadri, Sarah L Neuser, Alexander McFarland, Meggan M Gray, Erin Malone, Laura Nafe, Derrick Hall Education in the Health Professions 2019 2(1):1-3 At the 2011 Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA) Symposium, the SAVMA House of Delegates officially endorsed its Duty Hours Guidelines. The purpose of the guidelines was to provide guidance to veterinary students at all SAVMA Chapters on appropriate duty hours during clinical rotations. A need to revisit the duty hour guidelines arose in 2018 as veterinary students throughout the United States expressed concerns with the applicability of some guidelines in their clinical years. To reflect the needs of all SAVMA Chapters, the guidelines were revised in light of current veterinary medical trends. Feedback was solicited from students and faculty at all 34 SAVMA Chapters with clinical programs via surveys and in person meetings. A total of 19 Chapters provided input that highlighted areas for improvement. Thus, SAVMA wishes to make clear the needs of veterinary students on their clinical rotations and provide revised duty hours guidelines. Although SAVMA does not have the regulatory authority to enforce compliance, the organization strongly encourages all AVMA-accredited institutions to both embrace and comply with the newly revised and recommended guidelines.

Ten years of experience with a veterinary credential responder course Dianne Dunning, Barrett Slenning, Jimmy Tickel, David C Dorman Education in the Health Professions 2019 2(1):4-9 Training of veterinary students to improve their ability to respond to disaster events that affect livestock and companion animals is an important facet of veterinary education. Just over 10 years ago, the North Carolina (NC) State University College of Veterinary Medicine worked collaboratively with the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Service's Emergency Management Program and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Gillings School of Global Public Health, to develop a competency-based Veterinary Credential Responder (VCR) course. This special report reflects on this experience and provides a detailed description of the current VCR course. The 2-week VCR course combines lecture, online, experiential, and group exercises to meet entry-level federal credentialing requirements. Students gain a working knowledge of emergency management, emergency operation plans, and emergency support functions. Over 1000 veterinary students have received the VCR credential making them eligible to participate as deployable members of NC Veterinary Response Corps.

Law enforcement education and training: A review of literature and critical analysis Gilbert Singletary Education in the Health Professions 2019 2(1):10-18 Background: Recent killings of unarmed Black males murdered on national television has given rise to the successful prosecution of law enforcement officers, as well as new inquiries into officer discretion when applying deadly force. However, few scholars have called into question the methods used to train law enforcement officers, and how academy training prepares law enforcement officers to engage Black males. This research sought to provide a conceptual and cognitive framework for understanding deadly encounters between law enforcement and Black males and provide evidence-based content and recommendations to law enforcement to improve curricula and officer training. Methodology: Using case study methodology, a conflict between a Black male and a law enforcement officer is examined. Results: The results of the study reveal that current law enforcement training and education do not adequately prepare officers with the psychological tools needed to navigate the adversarial relationship between Black males and members of law enforcement. A combination of past experiences and behavior cues elicit responses from both Black males and law enforcement officers that often result in deadly encounters. Conclusions: There is no standardized curriculum for police officers across the United States. The majority of law enforcement training programs focus on physical and tactical elements with strength and firearms training at the core. A robust training that prepares officers for what they will experience in the field is warranted.

Interprofessional leadership development for health professions learners: A program and outcomes review Madeline C Aulisio, Leslie N Woltenberg, Erika F Erlandson, Marianne E Lorensen Education in the Health Professions 2019 2(1):19-26 Background: Interprofessional collaborative care has become a preferred model for patient-centered health care, and effective participation in interprofessional teams has emerged as a core expectation of all providers. In response to this change in the healthcare landscape, Leadership Legacy was designed as an extracurricular enrichment opportunity to complement the formal curriculum by enhancing participants' collaboration, leadership, and teamwork skills. This cohort-based interprofessional leadership development program for health profession learners was built on a foundation of leadership theory, specifically emotional intelligence, and the interprofessional education collaborative competencies. Methods: A longitudinal cohort study with a pre- and post-test mixed method design was used to determine changes in students' attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge that resulted from participation in Leadership Legacy. Results: Results of the 2-year study indicate that participation in the program produced learners who reported statistically significant gains in knowledge of educational requirements and scope of practice of other healthcare professionals, satisfaction measures of the experience, interprofessional competencies, and attitudes toward healthcare team and team understanding measures. Conclusions: Together the elements of Leadership Legacy, when viewed through the lens of leadership theory, provide an opportunity whereby interprofessional learners engage in activities designed to increase emotional intelligence and stimulate social change. These same activities also enable future practitioners to develop skills directly related to critical leadership competencies such as conflict management and resolution, effective communication, feedback agility, and project management.

Understanding veterinary students' intrinsic, extrinsic, and lifestyle values Amy M Snyder, Kenneth D Royal Education in the Health Professions 2019 2(1):27-33 Introduction: Workplace values are a significant factor in facilitating successful transitions from the classroom to the workforce and in the career development process. Furthermore, employees whose value system aligns with that of their coworkers and leaders report higher rates of job satisfaction. This study sought to determine what current doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) students' value with respect to intrinsic, extrinsic, and lifestyle factors. Methods: A modified version of the work values checklist was administered to 100 3rd-year students at a large veterinary school located in the United States. Results: The three values rated most important among participants were “Have fun in your life and at work,” “Feel respected for your work,” and “Gain a sense of achievement.” The three values rated least important were “Be involved in politics,” “Compete with others,” and “Live abroad.” Conclusion: Overall, intrinsic and lifestyle values appear to play a larger role in DVM students' workplace preferences than extrinsic values. Researchers are encouraged to replicate this study at other institutions to determine the extent to which findings from this study are generalizable across the veterinary medical profession.

The impact of team training on perceptions of team functioning during 3rd year veterinary surgery April A Kedrowicz, Sarah Hammond, Elizabeth M Hardie Education in the Health Professions 2019 2(1):34-39 Introduction: Team communication is paramount for success in veterinary medicine. Methods: This qualitative study explores the impact of team communication training on students' perceptions of performance and assessment of team functioning during junior surgery by comparing two different classes. The class of 2017 was not formally trained in team communication before their participation in junior surgery, while the class of 2018 participated in training offered through a dedicated team communication course. Results: Students' experiences as described in their own words revealed qualitatively different experiences and challenges associated with being a part of a year-long surgery team for both cohorts. Team training impacted students' ability to plan and organize their work, navigate disagreement, and facilitated a high level of cohesiveness. Conclusions: These findings suggest that team training makes a difference in students' experiences and enhances perceptions of communication, coordination, and collaborative processes.

Long-term retention of applied knowledge and problem-solving skills after completing an online learning module on infectious diseases Kieran Walsh, Gytautas Cvirka, Matthew Homer Education in the Health Professions 2019 2(1):40-41 BMJ Learning is the online learning service of the British Medical Journal (BMJ). It provides online resources to help doctors learn and improve their practice. E-learning resources have a pretest whereby learners can assess their baseline knowledge and skills and then an immediate posttest so that they can test themselves at the end. Evaluation of the pretest and posttest scores reveals that users improve their scores over the course of the learning. However, this only measures short-term improvement. The purpose of this evaluation is to estimate whether this improvement is sustained. We invited users of BMJ Learning who completed a learning module on anthrax to repeat the posttest 8 months after they completed the module. The mean pretest score of these users was 63.3%, the mean immediate posttest score was 82.6%, and the mean long-term posttest score was 81.1%. The differences between the pretest and both posttests were statistically significant (P < 0.001).

Cost and value in health professions education: Key underlying theoretical perspectives Kieran Walsh, George Rivers, Dragan Ilic, Stephen Maloney Education in the Health Professions 2019 2(1):42-47 Background: Health professions education is expensive. There has been a growing realization of this cost, and this realization has led many educators to explore new models of health professions education that could be both low cost and high value. This, in turn, has led to a small but growing research base in the field. However, until now, new research and practice has largely proceeded in the absence of theory. Studies of the cost-effectiveness, cost benefit, and cost utility of health professions education have been carried out with little consideration of potential theoretical underpinnings. This article attempts to redress this current shortcoming in the literature. It outlines a number of economic theories that are likely to be most relevant to health professions education. Theories: A number of theories are available that can underpin thinking, research, and practice in the field of cost and value in health professions education. The most relevant theories include human capital theory, signaling or screening theory, the cost-of-production theory of value, the theory of supply and demand, and cost and productivity theory. These different theories offer contrasting approaches to illuminate and understand the complex nature of cost and value in health professions education. However, given the different perspectives of educational stakeholders (e.g., learners, teachers, institutions, and governments), no single theory is likely to address all their contrasting needs. Indeed, some of the theories complement each other (e.g., human capital theory and supply and demand theory) insofar as human capital is a resource that is subject to the forces of supply and demand. Conclusions: Theories that relate to cost and value in health professions education should influence research methodology and practice in this field. In turn, research findings should feed thinking about theory and should enable the development of more profound theoretical underpinnings of research.

Survey research methods: A guide for creating post-stratification weights to correct for sample bias Kenneth D Royal Education in the Health Professions 2019 2(1):48-50 Nonrepresentative data pose one of the greatest validity threats in survey research. Samples that are underrepresented and/or overrepresented based on demographic subgroups can introduce bias that distorts both the accuracy and the inferences made about the results. This article discusses the concept of poststratification weighting, a post hoc statistical procedure used to correct for sampling bias in survey research studies. Procedural steps for calculating poststratification weights are presented, and an example involving a simulated cohort of students in a medical school is provided for demonstration purposes. SPSS statistical software coding is presented to help researchers get started with their own calculations of poststratification weights.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Drug hypersensitivity in HIV infection Purpose of review Immune-mediated adverse drug reactions (IM-ADRs) are many times more common in HIV-infected patients. Usual offending drugs include antiretroviral and antiinfectives, but the burden of specific drug IM-ADRs is population-specific; changing as new and fixed dose combinations enter the market, and drug-resistance patterns demand. This review considers recent literature on epidemiology, mechanisms, clinical management and prevention of IM-ADRs amongst persons living with HIV/AIDS. Recent findings Epidemiological studies continue to describe high rates of delayed hypersensitivity to known offenders, as well as similar reactions in preexposure prophylaxis. IM-ADRs to oral and injectable integrase strand transfer inhibitors are reported with expanding use. The clinical spectrum and management of IM-ADRs occurring in HIV-infected populations is similar to uninfected; with exceptions such as a recently described severe delayed efavirenz DILI with high mortality. Furthermore, the context can be unique, such as the lower than expected mortality in a Stevens–Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) cohort from a HIV/TB high burden setting. Programmatic data showing the near complete elimination of Abacavir drug hypersensitivity syndrome following implementation of HLA-B57:01 screening is a stellar example of how prevention is possible with mechanistic insight. Summary IM-ADRs remain a challenge in persons living with HIV. The complexities posed by polypharmacy, overlapping drug toxicities, drug interactions, overlap of IM-ADRs with other diseases, limited alternative drugs, and vulnerable patients with advanced immunosuppression with high mortality, necessitate increased use of drug provocation testing, treat-through and desensitization strategies. There is an urgent need for improved diagnostics and predictive biomarkers for prevention, or to guide treat-through, rechallenge and desensitization approaches. Correspondence to Professor Jonny Peter, Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, H52 Old Main Building, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, 7925 Cape Town, South Africa. E-mail: Jonny.Peter@uct.ac.za Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Highlights in allergic contact dermatitis 2018/2019 Purpose of review The purpose was to highlight recent findings especially concerning new and old allergens, trends, diagnosis and causes of contact allergy. Recent findings Nickel is still the most frequent cause of contact allergy in women and piercings remain an important risk factor. Countries with a long history of regulation of contact allergens have the lowest level of contact allergy to nickel and chromium in Europe. Among the most frequent causes of fragrance contact allergy is terpenes, which are oxidized such as limonene, linalool and in some countries: geraniol. Methylisothiazolinone is still causing considerable problems due to hidden exposures. Acrylates are emerging allergens and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate has been included in the 2019 update of the baseline series, as many new cases are seen due to long-lasting nail polish based on acrylates and glue (isobornyl acrylate) in insulin pumps. More than 10 new allergens have been described, which need to be considered in diagnosing contact allergy. Summary Allergic contact dermatitis is a frequent problem, it also constitutes a challenge to diagnose due to many potential contact allergens. The main culprit allergens remain the same, new significant causes are found especially within acrylates. Correspondence to Jeanne D. Johansen, DMSc, Professor, Consultant, Department of Dermatology and Allergy, National Allergy Research Centre, Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, 2900 Hellerup, Denmark. Tel: +45 38677301; e-mail: Jeanne.duus.johansen@regionh.dk Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Dupilumab after the 2017 approval for the treatment of atopic dermatitis: what's new and what's next? Purpose of review The IL-4/13 antagonist dupilumab was approved in 2017 as the first biologic for atopic dermatitis. Here, we comprehensively review compelling new data regarding dupilumab published following the approval. Recent findings Daily clinical practice reports of dupilumab in atopic dermatitis are favorable and in line with the registration trials. Dupilumab does not appear to negatively affect pharmacokinetics of CYP450-metabolized drugs nor vaccination responses. Type 2 inflammation biomarkers in skin and serum are reduced following dupilumab treatment. Dupilumab increases the risk for conjunctivitis, especially with higher baseline atopic dermatitis severity and a history of conjunctivitis, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Favorable effects of dupilumab have been reported in treatment-recalcitrant hand eczema and prurigo nodularis cases; for allergic contact dermatitis and alopecia areata, there are conflicting responses to dupilumab, possible stemming from pathophysiological heterogeneity. Summary Daily practice data support the continued use of dupilumab for atopic dermatitis. The only safety signal is an increased risk for conjunctivitis; mechanistic studies into dupilumab-associated conjunctivitis should lead to risk mitigation strategies. Prospective, controlled evaluations are needed for dupilumab in hand eczema and prurigo nodularis. A precision medicine-driven drug-development approach is essential to assess dupilumab for diseases with heterogeneous pathophysiologies, such as alopecia areata and allergic contact dermatitis. Correspondence to Deepak M.W. Balak, MD, PhD, MSc, National Expertise Center for Atopic Dermatitis, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Heidelberglaan 100, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands. Tel: +31 88 75 739 37; e-mail: d.m.w.balak@umcutrecht.nl Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Neurotrophic factors and nerve growth factor in ocular allergy Purpose of review During allergic reaction, nervous and immune systems mutually interact through release of mediators, including neurotrophic factors and nerve growth factor (NGF). These mediators modulate allergic reaction through binding their receptors expressed by immune and structural cells and by stimulating neuropeptide release by nerves. The role of neuropeptides and NGF has been demonstrated in allergic asthma and rhinitis, and, to a lesser extent, in allergic conjunctivitis. The aim of this review are to elucidate the evidence of the role of NGF and neuropeptides in the pathogenesis of allergic conjunctivitis. Recent findings NGF modulates allergic reaction by stimulating release of cytokines, inflammatory mediators and neuropeptides by immune and structural cells and nerve endings at the site of inflammation. Evidence showed that local and systemic NGF levels increase in patients with allergic conjunctivitis, including allergic rhinoconjuncivitis, vernal keratoconjunctivitis and atopic keratoconjunctivitis. We recently described an increase of conjunctival p75NTR expression in patients with allergic rhinoconjuncivitis, and an increase of tear levels of NGF after conjunctival provocation test with allergen. Summary NGF modulates ocular allergic reaction. Increasing understanding of the role of neuropeptides in allergic conjunctivitis may pave the way to the development of novel therapeutic approaches and improvement of patients' management. Correspondence to Professor Alessandro Lambiase, Department of Sense Organs, University Sapienza of Rome, Vilae del Policlinico, 155, 00161 Rome, Italy. Tel: +39 064 997 5357; e-mail: alessandro.lambiase@uniroma1.it Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Role of T cells in non-immediate drug allergy reactions Purpose of review Nonimmediate drug hypersensitivity reactions (NI-DHR) constitute the most complex group of drug allergy, with many drugs involved. Both parent drugs and their reactive metabolites can be implicated. Although with some drugs the number of metabolites is limited, with others it is quite extensive and many still remain to be identified. The diagnostic approaches are insufficient for the diagnosis and realistic approaches that reproduce the pathological response are lacking. Recent findings A wider view has now been considered, with the inclusion of several mechanisms that may contribute to drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHR): the classical hapten hypothesis, the danger signal and the pharmacological interaction. Monitoring the acute response provides relevant information about the mechanisms involved, with the identification of a large number of genes that can be over-expressed or under-expressed in the acute phase of the response. Assessment of risk of developing reactions can be verified by HLA associations. Summary Further knowledge of these NI-DHR, including molecular genetics and transcriptomic analysis, has enabled a better understanding and management of these reactions. Correspondence to E. Gómez, Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Brunngasse, 40. 4153. Reinach. BL., Switzerland. Tel: +41 76 321 40 37; e-mail: enriquegomezalcaide@gmail.com Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Treatable traits in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps Purpose of review Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a complex inflammatory sinonasal disease that deserves a multidisciplinary precision medicine approach. In a precision medicine model, a more pragmatic approach taking in consideration disease features that are potentially treatable should be considered. Recent findings Several treatable traits in CRSwNP can be identified: from disease-related ones, to extra-ENT features, to behavioral and environmental factors. This review article summarizes primarily the recent findings of CRSwNP-related treatable traits and how they can be modified by given treatments. Summary The advent of biological agents acting directly to the endotype underlying CRSwNP pushes the scientific community to integrate clinical, surgical and immunological evaluations for each single patient; this naturally leads to the identification of specific treatable traits that can serve as possible outcomes for any single biological. Correspondence to Enrico Heffler, Personalized Medicine, Asthma and Allergy, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4; 20089 - Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy. Tel: +39 0282247013; e-mail: heffler.enrico@gmail.com Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Cutaneous drug hypersensitivity: developments and controversies Purpose of review Cutaneous drug hypersensitivity reactions (CDHRs) are a complicated area with multiple clinical manifestations and differential diagnoses, requiring differentiated diagnostic measurements and optimized therapeutic management. Recent findings Disseminated CDHRs to classical drugs can be classified by a simple algorithm, whereas chemotherapeuticals or biopharmaceuticals may show drug-specific and atypical clinical presentations. Controversies in drug hypersensitivity diagnosis exist about the benefit and accuracy of in-vitro tests. Although skin tests are the best means of detecting sensitization to drugs, methods have not been sufficiently standardized. The necessity for skin tests before performing drug provocation test (DPT) and of prolonged DPTs is discussed in selected patients. If a suspicion has been documented, β-lactam allergy should be excluded. The standard allergy diagnosis is done by an allergist. In case of urgent need because of an infection and low risk according to history, faster delabeling pathways have been developed. There is weak evidence that patients with mastocytosis may have a slightly increased risk of developing immediate-type drug hypersensitivity; however, if considerations are taken, drugs do not have to be withheld for this patient group. There is particular need for improved diagnostic measurements in patients with drug-induced severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs), both identifying the offending drug and detecting individuals at risk. Further challenges encompass appropriate treatments during the acute as well as chronic phase of SCARs. Summary Recent literature has contributed to our understanding of clinical manifestations and existing controversies and future needs in this area. Correspondence to Knut Brockow, Department of Dermatology and Allergology Biederstein, School of Medicine, Technical University Munich, Biedersteiner Str. 29, 80802 München, Germany. Tel:+ 0049 89 4140 3182; fax+: 0049 89 4140 3127; e-mail: knut.brockow@tum.de Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

New phenotypes in hypersensitivity reactions to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Purpose of review Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is one of the most frequently prescribed medications in the medical field, and hypersensitivity to NSAID is a common adverse drug reaction encountered. However, NSAID hypersensitivity presents a variety of symptoms caused by diverse pharmacological and immunological mechanisms. Recent findings Owing to the heterogeneity of the disease, a new concept for the classification of NSAID hypersensitivity has recently been proposed to diagnose and manage NSAID hypersensitivity for personalized treatment. Acute and delayed reactions were distinguished in this classification, and identification of symptoms and speculation of putative mechanisms help physicians make the right diagnosis. NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease is a noticeable phenotype of NSAID hypersensitivity that involves upper airway comorbidities (chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps) as well as asthmatic features. The cutaneous phenotypes of NSAID hypersensitivity occur, and cross-reactivity with other types of NSAID should be considered in establishing a proper diagnosis. Hypersensitivity to a single NSAID can present urticaria/angioedema and anaphylaxis, in which an IgE-mediated immune response is suggested to be a prime mechanism. Management of NSAID hypersensitivity reactions includes avoidance, pharmacological treatment following standard guidelines, and aspirin desensitization. Summary The classification, diagnosis, and management of NSAID hypersensitivity should be individually reached by identifying its phenotype. Correspondence to Hae-Sim Park, Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, 164 Worldcup-ro, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon 16499, Korea. Tel: +82 31 219 5150; fax: +82 31 219 5154; e-mail: hspark@ajou.ac.kr Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Microbiome and skin biology Purpose of review The skin is home to a diverse milieu of bacteria, fungi, viruses, bacteriophages, and archaeal communities. The application of culture-independent approaches has revolutionized the characterization of the skin microbiome and have revealed a previously underappreciated phylogenetic and functional granularity of skin-associated microbes in both health and disease states. Recent findings The physiology of a given skin-niche drives the site-specific differences in bacterial phyla composition of healthy skin. Changes in the skin microbiome have consistently been associated with atopic dermatitis. In particular, Staphylococcus aureus overgrowth with concomitant decline in Staphylococcus epidermidis is a general feature associated with atopic dermatitis and is not restricted to eczematous lesions. Changes in fungal species are now also being described. Changes in the composition and metabolic activity of the gut microbiota are associated with skin health. Summary We are now beginning to appreciate the intimate and intricate interactions between microbes and skin health. Multiple studies are currently focused on the manipulation of the skin or gut microbiome to explore their therapeutic potential in the prevention and treatment of skin inflammation. Correspondence to Liam O'Mahony, Office 450, 4th Floor Food Science and Technology Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland. Tel.: +353 21 4901316;. e-mail: liam.omahony@ucc.ie Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Recombinant allergens for immunotherapy: state of the art Purpose of review More than 30 years ago, the first molecular structures of allergens were elucidated and defined recombinant allergens became available. We review the state of the art regarding molecular AIT with the goal to understand why progress in this field has been slow, although there is huge potential for treatment and allergen-specific prevention. Recent findings On the basis of allergen structures, several AIT strategies have been developed and were advanced into clinical evaluation. In clinical AIT trials, promising results were obtained with recombinant and synthetic allergen derivatives inducing allergen-specific IgG antibodies, which interfered with allergen recognition by IgE whereas clinical efficacy could not yet be demonstrated for approaches targeting only allergen-specific T-cell responses. Available data suggest that molecular AIT strategies have many advantages over allergen extract-based AIT. Summary Clinical studies indicate that recombinant allergen-based AIT vaccines, which are superior to existing allergen extract-based AIT can be developed for respiratory, food and venom allergy. Allergen-specific preventive strategies based on recombinant allergen-based vaccine approaches and induction of T-cell tolerance are on the horizon and hold promise that allergy can be prevented. However, progress is limited by lack of resources needed for clinical studies, which are necessary for the development of these innovative strategies. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License 4.0 (CCBY), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 Correspondence to Rudolf Valenta, MD, Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria. Tel: +43 140400 51080; e-mail: Rudolf.valenta@meduniwien.ac.at Copyright © 2019 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Critical Care

Moving the critical care research agenda forward in Saudi Arabia Yaseen M Arabi, Yasser Mandourah, Fahad M Al-Hameed, Khalid Maghrabi, Mohammed S ALshahrani, Musharaf Sadat Saudi Critical Care Journal 2019 3(1):1-2

1999–2019: Twenty years of watershed moments for patient safety M Sofia Macedo, Yasser Mandourah, Anita Moore, Abdulelah AlHawsawi Saudi Critical Care Journal 2019 3(1):3-11 The case for patient safety is obvious; no one would argue in favor of harming patients. Since the launch of the paper To Err is Human, patient safety has been on the forefront of public health policymakers' priorities. Yet, 20 years later, while progress has been made, harm to patients is still a reality, daily, in health systems over the world. As countries reform their health systems, the national health programs must ensure not only the integration of universal health coverage (UHC) but also that the health coverage provided is safe. To this point, new models of care must be designed and implemented, and organizations should aim to achieve high-reliability care, similar to other industries that keep a solid safety record. This can be achieved by aiming for high-reliability organization principles, ensuring empowerment of patients as codesigners of health care, workforce safety to ensure safety of patients, and UHC without harm and proper regulation of digital health to avoid unintended adverse consequences. Since the past 20 years, the knowledge gap on patient safety has been shortened and therefore the health-care community holds a firm foundation for starting to implement evidence-based strategies that ensure safe care. The Jeddah Declaration on Patient Safety, 2019, is an actionable document that provides guidance to policy- and decision-makers globally that aim to achieve UHC free of harm. Nevertheless, given the high-level of complexity of health-care systems and its vulnerability to error, the question is what is the way forward toward a safer provision of care? How can the year 2019 be the watershed moment for the health-care industry?

Management of carbon monoxide poisoning-induced cardiac failure and multiorgan dysfunction with combined respiratory and circulatory extracorporeal membrane oxygenation AA Rabie, A Asiri, M Alsherbiny, W Alqassem, M Rajab, S Mohamed, W Hazem I Alenazi, L Ariplackal Saudi Critical Care Journal 2019 3(1):12-14 Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, and nonirritant gas; it is the most common cause of poisoning and poisoning-related death. The main mechanism of CO toxicity is ischemic hypoxia secondary to hypoxemia. The heart is the major target organ of acute CO poisoning. Cardiac failure is the most common cardiac presentation; however, other cardiovascular manifestations include arrhythmia, pulmonary edema, and myocardial infarction. Recovery time from CO-induced cardiomyopathy varies from 4 days to 6 weeks. To our knowledge, there are a limited number of reported cases that demonstrated successful extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in adult and pediatric patients with CO poisoning and multiple organ failure. We present our experience with a case we think that it is the first case to be published for a patient with acute CO poisoning received both circulatory and respiratory support (hybrid venoarterial-venous ECMO).

Fluid administration strategies in traumatic brain injury Abdulrahman Alharthy, Waleed Tharwat Aletreby, Ibrahim Soliman, Fahad AlFaqihi, Waseem Alzayer, Nassir Nasim Mahmoud, Lawrence Marshall Gillman, Dimitrios Karakitsos Saudi Critical Care Journal 2019 3(1):15-18 Fluid restriction strategies may reduce morbidity and mortality in critical care patients and are currently trending as preliminary data showed encouraging results. A positive fluid balance was related to increase morbidity and mortality in a variety of disorders (i.e., sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and postsurgical cases) as well as resulted in an increased rate of complications observed in the intensive care unit setting. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been managed thus far in terms of fluid resuscitation under the concept of general trauma resuscitation recommendations that favored euvolemia above all fluid balance states. Notwithstanding, scarce data exist to clarify details about fluid management strategies in TBI such as the desirable fluid balance per se and/or its impact on patients' outcomes. We, therefore, reviewed previously published data and concluded in an observational manner (by creating a visual display model) that a highly positive and/or a negative fluid balance may have a detrimental impact on the prognosis of TBI patients. Accordingly, well-designed randomized controlled trials are clearly required to investigate further and in detail the most efficacious fluid administration strategies in TBI contributing thus in the rapidly expanding field of neurocritical care.

King Saud Medical City Intensive Care Unit: A critical and cost-focused appraisal Abdulrahman Alharthy, Dimitrios Karakitsos Saudi Critical Care Journal 2019 3(1):19-23 Intensive care unit (ICU) cost analysis has not been extensively addressed in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We have implemented cost analysis (2015–2016) at the largest polyvalent ICU of the Kingdom (King Saud Medical City). Our block model analysis assimilated both modified Therapeutic Intervention Scoring System (TISS) and Omega scoring points to evaluate the overall cost; while, specific utilization elements were included in such as medication, procedural, laboratory, radiology, physiotherapy, nursing/physician, and overhead/other costs. The overall cost (Saudi Riyals [SAR]/ICU patient/day) averaged for TISS/Omega scores and adjusted for 2015–2016 inflation rates was approximately 23.269 (TISS: 167 points; Omega: 173 points generating predictive costs scores which were approximating the aforementioned score [R2 validated 0.91 and 0.90, respectively, all P < 0.005). Thereafter, we have applied effective antibiotic stewardship program and control of procedural supplies, novel administration policies, diversification of the ergonomy and clinical orientation, early mobilization of patients, increase of by-the-bed critical care ultrasound applications and decrease in the length of stay. The cost was reduced to 19.800 SAR (15%) in 2017–2018 that is comparable to international standards. Preliminary follow-up cost analysis (2019) is confirming projections of stabilizing the ICU cost <18.000 SAR (4790 USD)/patient/day. Our budget-cut policy has provided the department with a vital investment space to integrate new therapeutic technologies.

Prevention of pressure injury in the intensive care unit Hasan M Al-Dorzi Saudi Critical Care Journal 2019 3(1):24-28 Pressure injury (PI) is common in critically ill patients and is largely preventable. Prevention of PI in the intensive care unit (ICU) depends on routine risk assessment and implementation of preventive measures, such as adequate nutritional support, proper positioning and repositioning, mobilization, proper skin care, use of appropriate pressure-redistributing surfaces, and application of skin protective dressings. The available evidence suggests that a multifaceted approach is usually required. In addition, there is a need for high-quality studies to guide PI prevention in ICU patients.

Machine learning applications in critical care Mohammed Al Dhoayan, Huda Alghamdi, Yaseen M Arabi Saudi Critical Care Journal 2019 3(1):29-32 The use of machine learning (ML) applications in the intensive care units (ICUs) has surged over the last two decades. This is the result of the digital transformation that many health-care organizations have implemented. Data that are generated in the process of intensive care have more volume, velocity, and value than data generated in any other general hospital's department. This characteristic of ICUs makes them attractive environments for developing models that require rich dataset. ML has been used to develop clinical decision support system (CDSS) that could make informative decisions without requiring prior in-depth knowledge about the roots of the disease or common characteristics of the patients. The adoption of ML-based CDSS in ICUs is continuously increasing as ML algorithms achieve high levels of accuracy in descriptive, diagnostic, predictive, and prescriptive decisions. This article reviews some of the applications of ML in ICUs. This article will show examples of how ML was used for outcome predictions, such as predicting mortality and readmission. Examples in this article also include using ML for diagnostic and image recognition purposes. This review will discuss the use of ML for monitoring ICU patients, whether monitoring their physical safety with artificial intelligence vision detection algorithms, monitoring their continuous bedside measurements, or monitoring the administration and dosage of their medications. All these examples show that ML-based CDSS are on the path for a journey full of innovative and creative solutions that will increase the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of critical care.

Neuromuscular-blocking agent use in critically ill patients Shmeylan A Al Harbi, Hind S Almodaimegh, Yaseen M Arabi Saudi Critical Care Journal 2019 3(1):33-37 Neuromuscular-blocking agents (NMBAs) are a cornerstone in the management of critically ill patients. There is evidence supporting short course (<48 h) of paralysis for patients with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome with PaO2/FiO2 ratio <150. Proper knowledge of these agents and their evidence-based use is fundamental. Health-care providers can play an important role in the regulation and the use of NMBAs in critically ill patients.

Management of heavy smokers in the intensive care unit Jawaher Grmaish Saudi Critical Care Journal 2019 3(1):38-42 Quitting smoking abruptly can precipitate the nicotine withdrawal syndrome, characterized by psychological and physical components. Data from critically ill patients have shown that active smokers are more likely to suffer from psychomotor agitation, self-removal of tubes and catheters, need for physical restraint, and therefore usually require higher doses of sedatives, neuroleptics, and analgesic agents. Furthermore, smokers admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) experience delirium or agitation, which increases the length of hospital stay and the cost of medical care. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) has been shown to be safe and effective in the outpatient setting in smokers who intended to quit. However, the management of nicotine withdrawal symptoms in critically ill patients is controversial. Several studies have identified that treating nicotine withdrawal symptoms with NRT can be beneficial while others suggest that it can potentially increase mortality in critically ill patients. In the absence of high-quality data, NRT cannot currently be recommended for routine use to prevent delirium or to reduce hospital or ICU mortality in critically ill smokers. From the currently available data, it seems that the use of NRT in critically ill patients should be limited to selected patients where the potential benefit clearly outweighs the risk. To establish definitive conclusions regarding the use of NRT in smokers admitted to the ICU, it is necessary to carry out well-designed prospective studies with a sample of adequate size to limit the confounding factors and biases present in the current retrospective observational studies.

Central line-associated bloodstream infections in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Raymond M Khan, Jawad Subhani, Yaseen M Arabi Saudi Critical Care Journal 2019 3(1):43-48 Healthcare-associated infections (HAI) are a preventable cause of morbidity and mortality in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and internationally. They are associated with increased length of stay, mortality, antibiotics cost, and overall hospital cost. About 250,000 central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) occur in the US yearly, with a rate of 0.8 per CL-days and attributed mortality of 12%–25%. CLABSI constitutes 14.2%–38.5% of HAIs in the Kingdom, with rates varying from 2.2 to 29.7/1000 CL-days and crude device-associated mortality of 16.8%–41.9%. This article highlights the scope of the problem and outlines preventive strategies.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

Anesthesiology

Neurological complications after cardiac surgery: anesthetic considerations based on outcome evidence Purpose of review Neurological complications after cardiac surgery remain prevalent. This review aims to discuss the modifiable and outcome-relevant risk factors based on an up-to-date literature review, with a focus on interventions that may improve outcomes. Recent findings There is a close relationship between intraoperative blood pressure and postoperative neurological outcomes in cardiac surgical patients based on cohort studies and randomized controlled trials. Adopting an optimal and personalized blood pressure target is essential; however, the outstanding issue is the determination of this target. Maintaining cerebral tissue oxygen saturation at least 90% patient's baseline during cardiac surgery may be beneficial; however, the outstanding issues are effective intervention protocols and quality outcome evidence. Maintaining hemoglobin at least 7.5 g/dl may be adequate for cardiac surgical patients; however, this evidence is based on the pooled results of thousands of patients. We still need to know the optimal hemoglobin level for an individual patient, which is of particular relevance during the decision-making of transfusion or not. Summary The available evidence highlights the importance of maintaining optimal and individualized blood pressure, cerebral tissue oxygen saturation and hemoglobin level in improving neurological outcomes after cardiac surgery. However, outstanding issues remain and need to be addressed via outcome-oriented further research. Correspondence to Wei Mei, MD, Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Road, Wuhan 430030, China. Tel: +86 27 83662673; e-mail: wmei@hust.edu.cn Copyright © 2019 YEAR Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Anesthesia and brain tumor surgery: technical considerations based on current research evidence Purpose of review Anesthetics may influence cancer recurrence and metastasis following surgery by modulating the neuroendocrine stress response or by directly affecting cancer cell biology. This review summarizes the current evidence on whether commonly used anesthetics potentially affect postoperative outcomes following solid organ cancer surgery with particular focus on neurological malignancies. Recent findings Despite significant improvement in diagnostic and therapeutic technology over the past decades, mortality rates after cancer surgery (including brain tumor resection) remains high. With regards to brain tumors, interaction between microglia/macrophages and tumor cells by multiple biological factors play an important role in tumor progression and metastasis. Preclinical studies have demonstrated an association between anesthetics and brain tumor cell biology, and a potential effect on tumor progression and metastasis has been revealed. However, in the clinical setting, the current evidence is inadequate to draw firm conclusions on the optimal anesthetic technique for brain tumor surgery. Summary Further work at both the basic science and clinical level is urgently needed to evaluate the association between perioperative factors, including anesthetics/technique, and postoperative brain tumor outcomes. Correspondence to Daqing Ma, Anaesthetics, Pain Medicine and Intensive Care, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital 369 Fulham Road, London SW10 9NH, UK. Tel: +44 203315 8495; fax: +44 203315 5109; e-mail: d.ma@imperial.ac.uk Copyright © 2019 YEAR Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Neuroanesthesia and outcomes: evidence, opinions, and speculations on clinically relevant topics Purpose of review The objective of this review is to identify outstanding topics most relevant to neuroanesthesia practice and patient outcomes. We discuss the role of awake craniotomy, choice of general anesthetic agents, monitoring of anesthetic 'depth', mannitol-induced diuresis, neurophysiological monitoring, hyperventilation, and cerebral hypoperfusion. Recent findings Awake craniotomy, although a technique likely underused, is associated with enhanced recovery after surgery and prolonged survival after brain tumor resection compared with surgery under general anesthesia. The choice of general anesthetic must balance patient and surgical factors. Although propofol may be associated with favorable oncologic outcomes, currently available retrospective evidence does not specifically address neurosurgical patients. Both the definition and monitoring of anesthetic 'depth' remains elusive. Neuroanesthesiologists need to recognize and manage intraoperative light anesthesia in a timely fashion. Further evidence related to the optimal management of mannitol-induced diuresis and hyperventilation in neurosurgical patients is needed. Contemporary neurophysiological monitoring can reasonably detect intraoperative neurologic injury; however, its effect on patient outcome is unclear. Finally, cerebral hypoperfusion without stroke may be common; however, the clinical significance requires further investigation. Summary We provide an overview of several topics that are relevant to neuroanesthesia practice and patient outcomes based on evidence, opinions, and speculations. Our review highlights the need for further outcome-oriented studies to specifically address these clinically relevant issues. Correspondence to Lingzhong Meng, MD, Professor and Division Chief, Department of Anesthesiology, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, TMP 3, PO Box 208051, New Haven, CT 06520, USA. Tel: +1 203 785 2802; e-mail: lingzhong.meng@yale.edu Copyright © 2019 YEAR Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Anaesthesia for stroke thrombectomy: technical considerations based on outcome evidence Purpose of review Stroke is the second leading cause of death and the third leading cause of disability worldwide. Treatment is time limited and delays cost lives. This review discusses modern stroke management, during a time when treatments and guidelines are rapidly evolving. Recent findings Stroke thrombectomy has become the therapy of choice for large vessel occlusion (LVO) strokes. Perfusion imaging techniques, both computed tomography (CT) and MRI, now allow treatment beyond a set time window in specific patients. Both general anaesthesia and conscious sedation are options for patients undergoing stroke thrombectomy. Summary An individualized approach to the patient's anaesthetic management is optimal, and depends on close communication with the neurointerventionalist regarding patient and procedure-specific variables. No specific anaesthetic agent is preferred. Guiding principles are minimization of time delay, and maintenance of cerebral perfusion pressure. Correspondence to David L. McDonagh, MD, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, USA. Tel: +1 214 648 6400; e-mail: David.mcdonagh@utsouthwestern.edu Copyright © 2019 YEAR Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Neurophysiological monitoring during neurosurgery: anesthetic considerations based on outcome evidence Purpose of review This article reviews the recent outcome studies that investigated intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM) during spine, neurovascular and brain tumor surgery. Recent findings Several recent studies have focused on identifying which types of neurosurgical procedures might benefit most from IONM use. Despite conflicting literature regarding its efficacy in improving neurological outcomes, many experts have advocated for the use of IONM in neurosurgery. Several themes have emerged from the recent literature: the entire perioperative team must always work together to ensure adequate communication and intervention; systems and checklists, in which each member of the perioperative team has a clearly defined role, can be useful in the event of a sudden intraoperative changes in electrophysiological signals; regardless of the IONM modality used, any sudden change in electrophysiological signal should prompt an immediate and appropriate intervention; a multimodal IONM approach is often, but not always, advantageous over a single IONM approach. Summary For neurosurgical procedures that can be complicated by neural injury, the use of IONM should be considered according to specific patient and surgical factors. Future studies should focus on improving IONM technology and optimizing sensitivity and specificity for detecting any impending neural damage. Correspondence to Shaun E. Gruenbaum, MD, PhD, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL 32224, USA. Tel: +1 904 956 3398; e-mail: gruenbaum.shaun@mayo.edu Copyright © 2019 YEAR Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Awake craniotomy: anesthetic considerations based on outcome evidence Purpose of review This review highlights anaesthesia management options for awake craniotomy and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of different approaches, intraoperative complications and future directions. Recent findings For lesions located within or adjacent to eloquent regions of the brain, awake craniotomy allows maximal tumour resection with minimal consequences on neurological function. Various techniques have been described to provide anaesthesia or sedation and analgesia during the initial craniotomy, and rapid return to consciousness for intraoperative testing and tumour resection; there is no evidence that one approach is superior to another. Although very safe, awake craniotomy is associated with some well recognized complications; most are minor and self-limiting or easily reversed. In experienced hands, failure of awake craniotomy occurs in fewer than 2% of cases, irrespective of anaesthesia technique. Although brain tumour surgery remains the most common indication for awake craniotomy, the technique is finding utility in other neurosurgical procedures. Summary Several anaesthetic approaches are available for the management of patients during awake craniotomy. The choice of technique should be based on individual patient factors, location and duration of surgery, and anaesthesiologist expertise and experience. Appropriate patient selection and excellent multidisciplinary team working is associated with high levels of procedural success and patient satisfaction. Correspondence to Martin Smith, MBBS, FRCA, FFICM, Department of Neuroanaesthesia and Neurocritical Care Unit, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, University College London Hospitals, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK;. E-mail: martin.smith@ucl.ac.uk Copyright © 2019 YEAR Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Anesthesia and airway management for gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures outside the operating room Purpose of review To review the anesthestic and airway management for gastrointestinal procedures outside of the operating room. Recent findings The number of gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures performed is steadily increasing worldwide. As complexity, duration and invasiveness of procedures increase, there is ever greater requirement for deeper sedation or general anesthesia. A close relationship between anesthetic practitioners and endoscopists is required to ensure safe and successful outcomes. The American Society of Gastrointestinal endoscopy and the British Society of Gastroenterology have recently released guidelines for sedation and general anesthesia in gastrointestinal endoscopy, highlighting the need for careful monitoring for all cases, and anesthetic expertise in complex cases. The recent advances in high-flow nasal oxygenation in sedation may provide alternative options for oxygenation during gastrointestinal sedation, especially in deep sedation and this may reduce the need for general anesthesia. Summary The advances in gastrointestinal endoscopic intervention have increased the requirement for deep sedation and anesthetic involvement outside of the operating room. Careful titration of anesthetic intervention and close monitoring are required to ensure patient safety. Correspondence to Jaideep J. Pandit, St John's College, Oxford OX1 3JP, UK. Tel: +44 1865 221590; e-mail: jaideep.pandit@dpag.ox.ac.uk Copyright © 2019 YEAR Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Anesthesia practice for endovascular therapy of acute ischemic stroke in Europe Purpose of review Anesthetic assistance is often required during endovascular therapy (EVT) of large vessel occlusion in patients with acute ischemic stroke. It is currently debated whether EVT should be performed under general anesthesia or conscious sedation. This review will summarize the recent literature with emphasis on the influence of anesthesia method on neurological outcome. Recent findings Recent randomized trials have reported no difference in outcome after EVT performed under either conscious sedation or general anesthesia. This is in contrast to a substantial number of retrospective studies, which found that EVT performed under general anesthesia was associated with a worse neurologic outcome compared with conscious sedation. Anesthetic drugs affect vessel tone and the level of blood pressure may influence outcome. The most favorable choice of anesthetic agents and ventilatory strategy is still debated. Summary The optimal anesthetic practice for EVT remains to be identified. Currently, conscious sedation is often an easy first-line strategy, but general anesthesia can be considered an equal and safe alternative to conscious sedation when there is a carefully administered anesthetic that maintains strict hemodynamic control. Attention to ventilation is advocated. The presence of a specialized neuroanesthesiologist or otherwise dedicated anesthesia personnel is highly recommended. Correspondence to Mads Rasmussen, Section of Neuroanesthesia, Department of Anesthesia, Aarhus University Hospital, Nørrebrogade 44, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark. Tel: +45 30566977; e-mail: mads.rasmussen@vest.rm.dk Copyright © 2019 YEAR Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Nonoperating room anesthesia education: preparing our residents for the future Purpose of review Nonoperating room anesthesia (NORA) is the fastest growing segment of anesthetic practice. This review provides an overview of knowledge and trends that will need to be introduced to residents as part of their education. Recent findings Topics for the future include, but are not limited to, new medications, artificial intelligence and big data, monitoring depth of hypnosis, translational innovation and collaboration, demographic changes, financial driving forces, destination hubs, medical tourism, and new approaches to education training and self-management. Summary Implementing new medical technologies for anesthesia outside the operating room will help to successfully master this ever evolving subspecialty. Anesthesiologists require specific preparation for the diverse settings that they will encounter during their training. In this rapidly changing field, cognitive fitness must be factored into teaching and evaluation of residents. We describe the most important topics to consider when educating anesthesiology residents, and highlight research that addresses upcoming challenges. Correspondence to Steven D. Boggs, MD, MBA, Department of Anesthesiology, The University of Tennessee School of Health Sciences Memphis, Chandler Building, Suite 600, 877 Jefferson Avenue, Memphis, TN 38103, USA. Tel: +1 901 448 5988; e-mail: sboggs6@uthsc.edu Copyright © 2019 YEAR Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Anesthesia-administered sedation for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: monitored anesthesia care or general endotracheal anesthesia? Purpose of review The decision to undertake monitored anesthesia care (MAC) or general endotracheal anesthesia (GEA) for patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is influenced by many factors. These include locoregional practice preferences, procedure complexity, patient position, and comorbidities. We aim to review the data regarding anesthesia-administered sedation for ERCP and identify the impact of airway management on procedure success, adverse event rates and endoscopy unit efficiency. Recent findings Several studies have consistently identified patients at high risk for sedation-related adverse events during ERCP. This group includes those with higher American Society of Anesthesiologists class and (BMI). ERCP is commonly performed in the prone position, which can make the placement of an emergent advanced airway challenging. Although this may be alleviated by performing ERCP in the supine position, this technique is more technically cumbersome for the endoscopist. Data regarding the impact of routine GEA on endoscopy unit efficiency remain controversial. Summary Pursuing MAC or GEA for patients undergoing ERCP is best-approached on an individual basis. Patients at high risk for sedation-related adverse events likely benefit from GEA. Larger, multicenter randomized controlled trials will aid significantly in better delineating which sedation approach is best for an individual patient. Correspondence to Zachary L. Smith, DO, University Hospitals Digestive Health Institute, 11100 Euclid Ave, Wearn 2nd Floor, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA. Tel: +1 216 844 6172; fax: +1 216 844 7480; e-mail: zachary.smith2@uhhospitals.org Copyright © 2019 YEAR Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com

AIDS and Behavior

HIV Prevalence and Sexual Behaviors Among Transgender Women in Tehran, Iran Abstract To date, no study has looked at the prevalence of HIV and the high-risk behaviors among transgender women in Iran. Between May 2013 and February 2014, 104 transgender women were recruited for participation in this study. Inclusion criteria consisted of having an official letter from the Tehran Psychiatric Institute, or a well-known psychiatrist, that showed a diagnosis of gender dysphoria and/or completed Gender-Affirming Surgery at least 6 months prior to this study. Of the 104 participants, 2 were diagnosed with HIV, which translates to a HIV prevalence of 1.9%. Condom use with a non-paying partner, casual partner, and paying partner was respectively 39.7%, 34.6%, and 53.3%. A high percentage of transgender women in Tehran engage in high-risk sexual behaviors including condomless receptive anal sex, which is of particular concern given the low rates of HIV testing. Targeted public intervention programs and research are desperately needed for this high-risk group.

Undiagnosed and Untreated HIV Infection Among Persons Who Inject Drugs: Results of Three National HIV Behavioral Surveillance Surveys, San Francisco, 2009–2015 Abstract We examined three waves of National HIV Behavioral Surveillance surveys of persons who inject drugs (PWID) in San Francisco to assess meeting UNAIDS 90–90–90 targets. Diagnosis of PWID living with HIV increased from 64.4% in 2009 to 80.5% in 2015. Antiretroviral treatment among those diagnosed did not improve (63.8% in 2009, 62.9% in 2015). Programs in San Francisco have not achieved the first two UNAIDS targets for PWID by 2015. In a context of a rising opioid epidemic, there is urgent need for increased case finding of PWID living with HIV who are undiagnosed with rapid linkage to treatment.

Estimated Population Size of Men Who Have Sex with Men, San Francisco, 2017 Abstract Current population size estimates of communities at risk for HIV are needed to adequately plan interventions and care. We update the estimated number of men who have sex with men (MSM) living in San Francisco. Multiple data sources and approaches, including population growth, registered HIV cases, wisdom of the crowd, and a published estimate on the proportion of adults who are MSM were used for estimation. The several estimates were synthesized into a final figure with acceptable bounds using a Bayesian method. We project 69,974 (acceptable bounds 65,523–74,323) MSM are living in San Francisco as of the beginning of 2017. The population of MSM in San Francisco has increased by 19.4% since 2014.

Alcohol Use and Sexual Risk Behavior in Young Women: A Qualitative Study Abstract Alcohol use and sexual behavior co-occur frequently in young women, increasing risk for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. To inform preventive interventions, we used qualitative methods to better understand how women think about the contribution of alcohol use to sexual risk-taking. Young women (N = 25; M = 22.8 years; 64% White) were recruited from a community-based reproductive health clinic to attend focus groups; a semi-structured agenda was used to investigate both a priori explanatory mechanisms as well as participant-driven explanations for the alcohol-sex association. Women reported that alcohol reduced their social anxiety, helped them to feel outgoing and confident, and lowered inhibitions and other barriers to sexual encounters (consistent with alcohol expectancies). During drinking events, women described being less concerned with risks, less discriminating regarding sexual partners, and less likely to insist on safer sex practices (consistent with alcohol myopia). These empirical findings support previous theory-based guidance for tailoring preventive programs for alcohol use and sexual risk reduction for young women.

Approaches to Identify Unknown HIV-Positive Men Who Have Sex with Men in Nairobi, Kenya Abstract Kenya has been home to one of the most severe HIV/AIDS epidemics in Sub-Saharan Africa. This persistent epidemic requires interventions tailored to affected populations, particularly men who have sex with men (MSM). Given the resource constraints of many clinics and ecological challenges of Kenya, such as the illegality of sex among MSM, interventions to address HIV must strategically engage this population. This quasi-experimental pilot study of N = 497 sought to explore differences in discovering previously unknown HIV-positive MSM in Nairobi, Kenya. The study used four clinical sites to compare a social and sexual network index testing (SSNIT) strategy compared to traditional HIV screening. Clinics using the SSNIT strategy had significantly higher incidence rates of HIV diagnoses than control clinics (IRR = 3.98, p < 0.001). This study found that building upon the social and sexual networks of MSM may be one promising strategy while discovering critical cases of HIV.

The Association Between Condomless Anal Sex and Social Support Among Black Men Who Have Sex With Men (MSM) in Six U.S. Cities: A Study Using Data from the HIV Prevention Trials Network BROTHERS Study (HPTN 061) Abstract We assessed how egocentric (i.e., self-generated descriptions of a person's social contacts) network structure and composition corresponded with reported instances of condomless receptive and insertive anal intercourse with men who were reportedly HIV-infected or of unknown HIV serostatus in a sample of black men who have sex with men (MSM) in six U.S. cities. Ratings showing a higher percentage of network members who provided social participation and medical support were positively associated with reporting condomless sex. There were also significant positive associations between stimulant use and condomless insertive and receptive anal sex. Future research should examine the social processes that underlie these associations and explore ways that social support can affect HIV prevention efforts for black MSM.

Syndemic Classes, Stigma, and Sexual Risk Among Transgender Women in India Abstract Syndemic theory could explain the elevated HIV risk among transgender women (TGW) in India. Using cross-sectional data of 300 TGW in India, we aimed to: identify latent classes of four syndemic conditions (Depression-D, Alcohol use-A, Violence victimization-V, HIV-positive status), test whether syndemic classes mediate the association between stigma and sexual risk, and test whether social support and resilient coping moderate the association between syndemic classes and sexual risk. Four distinct classes emerged: (1) DAV Syndemic, (2) AV Syndemic, (3) DV Syndemic, and (4) No Syndemic. TGW in the DAV Syndemic (OR 9.80, 95% CI 3.45, 27.85, p < 0.001) and AV Syndemic classes (OR 2.74, 95% CI 1.19, 6.32, p < 0.01) had higher odds of inconsistent condom use in the past month than the No Syndemic class. Social support significantly moderated the effect of DAV Syndemic class on inconsistent condom use. DAV Syndemic was found to be a significant mediator of the effect of transgender identity stigma on sexual risk. HIV prevention programs among TGW need to: (a) incorporate multi-level multi-component interventions to address syndemic conditions, tailored to the nature of syndemic classes; (b) reduce societal stigma against TGW; and (c) improve social support to buffer the impact of syndemics on sexual risk.

Role of Social Network Sexual Norms and Behaviors on the HIV Sexual Risk Behaviors of People Who Inject Drugs in HPTN 037 Abstract This study examined the effect of social network descriptive sexual norms and behaviors on the sexual behaviors of people who inject drugs (PWID). Data from HPTN037 of 232 PWID (egos) and 464 network members (alters) were used in multilevel multivariate logistic regression models. Egos whose alters reported multiple sex partners had greater odds of multiple sex partners (aOR 2.20, 1.13–4.29). Egos' norms of condomless sex with primary (aOR 2.67, 1.15–6.17) and casual (aOR 2.38, 1.01–5.59) partners and egos' norms of giving (aOR 5.52, 1.87–16.25) and receiving (aOR 7.38, 1.34–40.66) money/drugs for sex were associated with the egos' respective behaviors. History of sex between an ego and alter was not associated with increased influence of alters' norms and behaviors on egos' sexual behavior. Findings provide support for developing interventions that target descriptive norms and selective network behavioral characteristics to decrease sexual HIV risk behavior among PWID.

The Intersection of HIV, Social Vulnerability, and Reproductive Health: Analysis of Women Living with HIV in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 1996 to 2016 Abstract Comprehensive care for sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and social needs for women living with HIV remains limited globally. We aimed to assess trends in baseline sociodemographic, clinical, sexual, and reproductive characteristics among a cohort of HIV-infected women in Rio de Janeiro from 1996 to 2016. Participants were stratified into four time periods based on year of enrollment; we compared cross-sectional data from each period. Of 1361 participants (median age 36), most were black or mixed race (60.1%), unemployed (52.1%), and without secondary education (54%). Adolescent pregnancy was common (51.5%), and 18.3% reported sexual debut at < 15 years old. Nearly half (45.2%) had < 5 lifetime sexual partners, yet prior syphilis and oncogenic human papillomavirus prevalence were 10.9% and 43.1%, respectively. Lifetime prevalence of induced abortion was 30.3%, and 16% used no contraceptive method. Future research should explore interactions between social vulnerability, HIV, and poor SRH outcomes and healthcare models to alleviate these disparities.

Dual Unsafe Injection and Sexual Behaviors for HIV Infection Among People Who Inject Drugs in Iran Abstract We used two national surveys (2010: N = 1597; 2013: N = 1057) of people who inject drugs (PWID) in past-month to assess the prevalence and population size of PWID with either safe or unsafe injection and sex behaviors, overall and by HIV status. In 2013, only 27.0% (vs. 32.3% in 2010) had safe injection and sex, 24.6% (vs. 23.3% in 2010) had unsafe injection and sex, 26.4% (vs. 26.5% in 2010) had only unsafe injection, and 22.0% (vs. 18.0% in 2010) had unsafe sex only. Among HIV-positive PWID in 2013, only 22.1% (~ 2200 persons) had safe injection and sex, 14.2% (~ 1400 persons) had unsafe injection and sex, 53.1% (~ 5200 persons) had unsafe injection, and 10.6% had unsafe sex (~ 1100 persons). Among HIV-negative PWID in 2013, only 27.5% (~ 22,200 persons) had safe injection and sex, 25.9% (~ 20,900 PWID) had unsafe injection and sex, 23.2% (~ 18,700 persons) had unsafe injection, and 23.3% (~ 18,800 persons) had unsafe sex. HIV-positive and -negative PWID in Iran continue to be at risk of HIV acquisition or transmission which calls for targeted preventions services.

Alexandros Sfakianakis
Anapafseos 5 . Agios Nikolaos
Crete.Greece.72100
2841026182

6948891480

alsfakia@gmail.com