Effectiveness of onsite and online education in enhancing knowledge and use of human immunodeficiency virus pre-and postexposure prophylaxis

BACKGROUND Enhancing awareness and use of pre-exposure prophylaxis(PrEP)and postexposure prophylaxis(PEP)is vital to curb human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)spread.High-risk behaviors prevalent among sexually transmitted infection clinic outpatients underscore the need for increased PrEP/PEP education in this group.AIM To investigate the effects of both onsite and online health education on the knowledge of,and willingness to use,PrEP and PEP among individuals receiving PEP services.METHODS Participants were drawn from a cohort study on PEP service intervention at an STD/AIDS outpatient clinic in designated HIV/AIDS hospitals in Beijing,conducted from January 1 to June 30,2022.Health education was provided both onsite and online during follow-up.Surveys assessing knowledge of,and willingness to use,PrEP/PEP were administered at baseline and again at 24 wk post-intervention.RESULTS A total of 112 participants were enrolled in the study;105 completed the follow-up at week 24.The percentage of participants with adequate knowledge of,and willingness to use,PrEP significantly increased from 65.2%and 69.6%at baseline to 83.8%and 82.9%at the end of the intervention(both P<0.05).Similarly,those with adequate knowledge of,and willingness to use,PEP increased from 74.1%and 77.7%at baseline to 92.4%and 89.5%at week 24(P<0.05).Being between 31 years and 40 years of age,having a postgraduate degree or higher,and reporting a monthly expenditure of RMB 5000 or more were found to be significantly associated with knowledge of PrEP and PEP(both P<0.05).CONCLUSION The findings show that both onsite and online health education significantly improved the knowledge of,and increased willingness to use,PrEP and PEP in individuals utilizing PEP services.

Prevalence of Occupational Injury and Knowledge of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis Accessibility among Healthcare Workers in Mogadishu, Somalia

Introduction: Healthcare workers in Mogadishu, Somalia face significant occupational injury risks, particularly needle stick injuries, with 61.1% reporting incidents. This poses a serious threat to their health, leading to infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV. Despite the high prevalence of injuries, awareness of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) accessibility is relatively high, with 84.0% of respondents aware of it. However, there are gaps in knowledge and implementation, as evidenced by variations in availability of PEP. Improving workplace safety measures, providing comprehensive training on injury prevention and PEP protocols, and ensuring consistent availability of PEP in healthcare facilities are crucial steps to safeguard the well-being of healthcare workers in Mogadishu, Somalia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among hospital workers in Mogadishu, Somalia, focusing on professionals from various healthcare facilities. The study targeted nurses, doctors, laboratory personnel, and pharmacists. Purposive sampling was employed, resulting in a sample size of 383 calculated using Fisher’s sample size formula. Data were collected using coded questionnaires entered into Microsoft Excel 2019 and analyzed with SPSS software to generate frequencies and proportions, presented through frequency tables and pie figures. Results: The study in Mogadishu, Somalia, examined the prevalence of occupational injuries and knowledge of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) accessibility among healthcare workers. Findings indicate a high prevalence of injuries, with 61.1% reporting incidents, predominantly needle stick injuries (60.6%). Despite the majority seeking prompt medical attention (72.0%), work-related illnesses affected 53.2% of respondents, notably work-related stress (59.5%). While most received training on injury and illness prevention (68.9%), gaps exist in PEP awareness, with 16.0% unaware of it. Nonetheless, 84.0% were aware, predominantly through health facilities (52.0%). Availability of PEP was reported by 71.3% in healthcare facilities, with variations in shift availability. The majority reported guidelines for PEP use (55.7%). Efforts are needed to bolster PEP awareness and ensure consistent availability in healthcare facilities to safeguard worker health. Conclusion: High prevalence of occupational injuries among healthcare workers, with needle stick injuries being the most common (60.6%). Despite this, 84.0% of respondents were aware of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP), primarily learning about it from health facilities (52.0%). While 71.3% reported the availability of PEP in their facility, 28.7% noted its unavailability. These results emphasize the need for improved education and accessibility of PEP to mitigate occupational injury risks.

Effectiveness of antibiotic prophylaxis for acute esophageal variceal bleeding in patients with band ligation: A large observational study

BACKGROUND Esophageal variceal bleeding is a severe complication associated with liver cirrhosis and typically necessitates endoscopic hemostasis.The current standard treatment is endoscopic variceal ligation(EVL),and Western guidelines recom-mend antibiotic prophylaxis following hemostasis.However,given the impro-vements in prognosis for variceal bleeding due to advancements in the management of bleeding and treatments of liver cirrhosis and the global concerns regarding the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria,there is a need to reassess the use of routine antibiotic prophylaxis after hemostasis.AIM To evaluate the effectiveness of antibiotic prophylaxis in patients treated for EVL.METHODS We conducted a 13-year observational study using the Tokushukai medical database across 46 hospitals.Patients were divided into the prophylaxis group(received antibiotics on admission or the next day)and the non-prophylaxis group(did not receive antibiotics within one day of admission).The primary outcome was composed of 6-wk mortality,4-wk rebleeding,and 4-wk spontaneous bacterial peritonitis(SBP).The secondary outcomes were each individual result and in-hospital mortality.A logistic regression with inverse probability of treatment weighting was used.A subgroup analysis was conducted based on the Child-Pugh classification to determine its influence on the primary outcome measures,while sensitivity analyses for antibiotic type and duration were also performed.RESULTS Among 980 patients,790 were included(prophylaxis:232,non-prophylaxis:558).Most patients were males under the age of 65 years with a median Child-Pugh score of 8.The composite primary outcomes occurred in 11.2%of patients in the prophylaxis group and 9.5%in the non-prophylaxis group.No significant differences in outcomes were observed between the groups(adjusted odds ratio,1.11;95%confidence interval,0.61-1.99;P=0.74).Individual outcomes such as 6-wk mortality,4-wk rebleeding,4-wk onset of SBP,and in-hospital mortality were not significantly different between the groups.The primary outcome did not differ between the Child-Pugh subgroups.Similar results were observed in the sensitivity analyses.CONCLUSION No significant benefit to antibiotic prophylaxis for esophageal variceal bleeding treated with EVL was detected in this study.Global reassessment of routine antibiotic prophylaxis is imperative.

Fatal cases in pediatric patients after post-exposure prophylaxis for rabies:A report of two cases

Rationale:Rabies is a zoonotic disease with a high mortality,primarily transmitted through the bite of infected mammals,particularly dogs and cats.Despite being a well-known disease since ancient times,it continues to cause a significant number of human deaths worldwide,with approximately 65000 fatalities reported annually.Patient concerns:We present two fatal cases of rabies in a 12-year-old immigrant boy and a 7-year-old boy.The first case was subject to a 24-hour delay in receiving appropriate medical attention and rabies preventive measures due to the lack of awareness among emergency hospital staff,leading to the administration of wound dressing only.The second case received timely rabies immunoglobulin administration;however,there was a 4-day delay in administering the fourth dose of the rabies vaccine,despite presenting evident symptoms of rabies.Diagnosis:Postmortem examination of brain samples from both patients confirmed the presence of rabies virus.Interventions:Post-exposure prophylaxis for rabies.Outcomes:Both patients were admitted to the hospital after the manifestation of rabies-related symptoms,with the 12-year-old child seeking medical care 47 days after the animal bite and the 7-year-old child seeking medical care 58 days after the exposure.Finally,the first patient died after 27 days and the second patient died after 40 days of hospitalization.Lessons:There is an urgent need for heightened awareness and education among both healthcare professionals and the public regarding the urgency of seeking immediate medical attention after potential rabies exposure.Timely recognition and initiation of post-exposure prophylaxis are pivotal in preventing the progression of the disease.Strengthening surveillance and reporting systems,coupled with continuous training for healthcare professionals,can contribute to early detection and management of rabies cases.

Navigating the controversy regarding antibiotic prophylaxis in acute variceal bleeding

Antibiotic prophylaxis in patients with cirrhosis and acute variceal bleeding is part of the standard of care according to most clinical guidelines.However,with recent evidence arguing against antibiotic prophylaxis,the role of this intervention has become less clear.

The use of oral human immunodeficiency virus pre-exposure prophylaxis in pregnant and lactating women in sub-Saharan Africa:considerations,barriers,and recommendations

In sub-Saharan Africa(SSA),63%of new human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)infections in 2021 were among women,particularly adolescent girls,and young women.There is a high incidence of HIV among pregnant and lactating women(PLW)in SSA.It is estimated that the risk of HIV-acquisition during pregnancy and the postpartum period more than doubles.In this article,we discuss the safety and effectiveness of drugs used for oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis(PrEP),considerations for initiating PrEP in PLW,the barriers to initiating and adhering to PrEP among them and suggest recommendations to address these barriers.Tenofovir/emtricitabine,the most widely used combination in SSA,is safe,clinically effective,and cost-effective among PLW.Any PLW who requests PrEP and has no medical contraindications should receive it.PrEP users who are pregnant or lactating may experience barriers to starting and adhering for a variety of reasons,including personal,pill-related,and healthcare facility-related issues.To address the barriers,we recommend an increased provision of information on PrEP to the women and the communities,increasing and/or facilitating access to PrEP among the PLW,and developing strategies to increase adherence.

Effect of weight-adjusted antimicrobial antibiotic prophylaxis on postoperative dosage and surgical site infection incidence in total joint arthroplasty

Surgical site infections(SSI)following total joint arthroplasty pose a significant concern for both providers and patients across the globe.Currently,administration of antimicrobial antibiotic prophylaxis is used throughout the world to reduce the incidence of SSI.However,the correct dosage and frequency of administration remains debatable.In this editorial,we emphasized the determination of the effect of administration of weight-adjusted antimicrobial antibiotic prophylaxis regime on the incidence of SSI and postoperative dosage reduction compared to the conventionally used regime during total joint arthroplasty.The results demonstrated similar efficacy between both regimes with respect to the incidence of SSI.In addition,weight-adjustment led to reduced postoperative dosage and has the potential to reduce chances of achieving lower therapeutic concentration,drug resistance,drug toxicity,and costs.

Feasibility of Integrating Leprosy Post-Exposure Prophylaxis with Single-Dose Rifampicin (LPEP) into Routine Leprosy Control Program in Bukedi and Teso Regions in Uganda

Background: World Health Organization recommends the implementation of contact tracing and Leprosy Post Exposure prophylaxis (LPEP) to interrupt the chain of transmission. To accelerate the uptake of this recommendation, a cross-sectional study among contacts of leprosy patients was conducted to investigate the feasibility of integrating leprosy systematic contact tracing and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) into the routine leprosy control program. Methods: This was a mixed methods cross-sectional study. The study was implemented in Kumi, Ngora, Serere, Soroti, Budaka and Kibuku Districts. Results: The 45 enrolled index patients (97.8% of the registered) identified a total of 135 contacts, of which 134 (99·2%) consented and were screened. Among them, one new leprosy patient was identified and started on treatment with multidrug therapy (MDT). All the eligible contacts, received the prophylactic treatment with Single Dose Rifampicin (SDR). Overall, SDR was administered to 133(98.5% of the listed contacts) with no adverse event reported. Factors associated with successful contact investigation and management included: Involvement of index patients, health care workers during the contact screening and SDR A administration, counselling of the index patients and contacts by the health care works, LPEP being administered as Directly observed Therapy (DOT) among others. Results Interpretation: The integration of leprosy post-exposure prophylaxis with administration of SDR and contact tracing is feasible, generally accepted by the patient, their contacts and health workers and can be integrated into the National Leprosy control programmes with minimal additional efforts once contact tracing has been established. Therefore, we recommend integration of administration of SDR in to the routine leprosy control program.

Classification of osteogenesis imperfecta:Importance for prophylaxis and genetic counseling

Osteogenesis imperfecta(OI)is a genetically heterogeneous monogenic disease characterized by decreased bone mass,bone fragility,and recurrent fractures.The phenotypic spectrum varies considerably ranging from prenatal fractures with lethal outcomes to mild forms with few fractures and normal stature.The basic mechanism is a collagen-related defect,not only in synthesis but also in folding,processing,bone mineralization,or osteoblast function.In recent years,great progress has been made in identifying new genes and molecular mechanisms underlying OI.In this context,the classification of OI has been revised several times and different types are used.The Sillence classification,based on clinical and radiological characteristics,is currently used as a grading of clinical severity.Based on the metabolic pathway,the functional classification allows identifying regulatory elements and targeting specific therapeutic approaches.Genetic classification has the advantage of identifying the inheritance pattern,an essential element for genetic counseling and prophylaxis.Although genotype-phenotype correlations may sometimes be challenging,genetic diagnosis allows a personalized management strategy,accurate family planning,and pregnancy management decisions including options for mode of delivery,or early antenatal OI treatment.Future research on molecular pathways and pathogenic variants involved could lead to the development of genotype-based therapeutic approaches.This narrative review summarizes our current understanding of genes,molecular mechanisms involved in OI,classifications,and their utility in prophylaxis.

Stratified Prophylaxis of Deep Venous Thrombosis in Surgical Patients Based on Caprini Risk Assessment: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUD: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) including DVT and pulmonary embolism (PE) can be a devastating complication in postoperative patients which is also considered the most likely to be prevented. The proper assessment and effective identification of high risk factors of DVT are the basis for its prevention. We used the Caprini risk assessment model (Caprini RAM) based on many researches about the validation of DVT risk assessment model, and combined the recommendations reported in American College of Chest Physicians Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines (9th) and Chinese Orthopaedics Association guideline, to give surgical patients stratified prophylaxis. STUDY DESIGN: Between April 2016 and December 2016, we conducted a controlled trial study in 4 surgical departments including Gynecology Department, Joint Surgery, Spinal Surgery and Urology Surgery. 764 patients were included in control group, and 772 patients were included in intervention group. We used the original assessment and prevention methods in control group, while applied the stratified prophylaxis based on Caprini risk assessment level in intervention group. The incidence of DVT was analyzed using chi-square test, while patients’ hospital day was analyzed by independent t-tests. RESULTS: There was significantly difference in incidence rate of DVT between the two groups (13.09‰ vs. 2.59‰, P < 0.05), while the difference in hospital day was not significantly (10.63 ± 5.80 vs. 10.29 ± 5.18, P > 0.05). Most of the surgical patients were with moderate or high-risk (64.93%). CONCLUSIONS: Nurses could identify DVT risk factors in surgical patients using the Caprini risk assessment scale, and apply targeted stratified prophylaxis according to risk level. This model makes DVT risk assessment and intervention process more standardized and effective. It can also reduce incidence rate of DVT significantly. .

Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis of a patient with MYH-9 related disease and COVID-19 infection:A case report

BACKGROUND The May-Hegglin anomaly is among a group of genetic disorders known as MYH9-related disease.Patients with inherited platelet disorders such as May-Hegglin anomaly are at a variably increased risk for bleeding due to a combination of platelet dysfunction and thrombocytopenia.Patients admitted to the hospital with coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)infection are at an increased risk for a venous thromboembolism event(VTE).The National Institutes of Health COVID-19 treatment guidelines recommend using a prophylactic dose of heparin as VTE prophylaxis for adults who are receiving high-flow oxygen.We describe a patient admitted for COVID-19 infection with pneumonia and a history of May-Hegglin anomaly.The patient presented a challenge to determine prophylactic anticoagulation as there are no clear guidelines for this patient population.CASE SUMMARY Herein,we describe the case of a 39-year-old woman admitted with acute hypoxic respiratory failure secondary to COVID-19 pneumonia.She had a history of May-Hegglin anomaly and demonstrated risk for bleeding since childhood,including a life-threatening bleeding event at the age of 9 years requiring blood and platelet transfusions.Her baseline platelet count was 40-50×109/L throughout her adult life.Her family history was also notable for May-Hegglin disorder in her mother,maternal uncle,maternal grandfather and her son.Computed tomography/pulmonary angiography revealed bilateral consolidative opacities consistent with multifocal pneumonia.Complete blood count was notable for platelet count of 54×109/L.She was admitted for inpatient respiratory support with high-flow oxygen per nasal cannula and was managed with guideline-directed therapy for COVID-19,including baricitinib and dexamethasone.The Hematology/Oncology consultation team was requested to assist with management of VTE prophylaxis in the setting of active COVID-19 infection and an inherited bleeding disorder.After review of the literature and careful consideration of risks and benefits,it was decided to treat the patient with prophylactic enoxaparin.She was closely monitored in the hospital for bleeding and worsening thrombocytopenia.She had no bleeding or signs of VTE.Her respiratory status improved,and she was discharged home after 5 d of hospitalization with supplemental oxygen by nasal cannula and dexamethasone.At the 6-month follow-up,the patient successfully discontinued her home oxygen use after only a few weeks following discharge.CONCLUSION The patient presented a challenge to determine prophylactic anticoagulation as anticoagulation guidelines exist for patients with COVID-19,but there are no clear guidelines for management of patients with COVID-19 and inherited bleeding disorders,particularly those with MYH9-related disease.She was discharged after recovery from the COVID-19 infection without bleeding or thrombosis.As there are no published guidelines for this situation,we present a pragmatic,informed approach to a patient with MYH9-related disease who had an indication for anticoagulation.

Evaluation of the Appropriateness of Gastrointestinal Prophylaxis in the Critically III

The aim of this study was to determine the utilization of SRMD （stress related mucosal disease） prophylaxis in the ICU （intensive care unit） of a large teaching institution based on duration and defined adverse effects. Patients were reviewed for appropriateness of SRMD prophylactic therapy based on the presence of two independent risk factors （coagulopathy and mechanical ventilation greater than 48 hours） versus presence of any one risk factor from a list developed by the study investigator. Data was collected into spreadsheets and outcomes were analyzed using descriptive statistics. When evaluating patients based on the presence of any risk factor, 84 percent of patients had at least one risk factor present, while 16 percent did not have any. In patients who received famotidine, there was one occtLrrence of Clostridium difficile and 6 cases of electrolyte abnormalities. In patients who received a PPI, there was one documented case of HAP, two cases of ventilator-associated pneumonia, three cases of Clostridium difficile, and 14 patients who developed electrolyte abnormalities. Data does not show an association between acid suppression therapy and incidence of nosocomial infections. The number of patients whose therapy exceeded the appropriate stop-date compared with the number of patients in which SRMD prophylaxis was discontinued when risk factors diminished was greater when evaluating patients based upon the two independent risk factors.

Hepatitis B and inflammatory bowel disease: Role of antiviral prophylaxis

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a very common infection worldwide. Its reactivation in patients receiving immunosuppression has been widely described as being associated with significant morbidity and mortality unless anti-viral prophylaxis is administered. Treatment in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients has changed in recent years and immunosuppression and biological therapies are now used more frequently than before. Although current studies have reported an incidence of hepatitis B in inflammatory bowel disease patients similar to that in the general population, associated liver damage remains an important concern in this setting. Liver dysfunction may manifest in several ways, from a subtle change in serum aminotransferase levels to fulminant liver failure and death. Patients undergoing double immunosuppression are at a higher risk, and reactivation usually occurs after more than one year of treatment. As preventive measures, all IBD patients should be screened for HBV markers at diagnosis and those who are positive for the hepatitis B surface antigen should receive antiviral prophylaxis before undergoing immunosuppression in order to avoid HBV reactivation. Tenofovir/entecavir are preferred to lamivudine as nucleos(t)ide analogues due to their better resistance profile. In patients with occult or resolved HBV, viral reactivation does not appear to be a relevant issue and regular DNA determination is recommended during immunosuppression therapy. Consensus guidelines on this topic have been published in recent years. The prevention and management of HBV infection in IBD patients is addressed in this review in order to address practical

Antibiotic prophylaxis in variceal hemorrhage:Timing,effectiveness and Clostridium difficile rates

AIM:To investigate if antibiotics administered within 8 h of endoscopy reduce mortality or increase the incidence of Clostridium difficile infection(CDI).METHODS:A 2-year retrospective analysis of all patients who presented with first variceal hemorrhage was undertaken.The primary outcome measure was 28-d mortality.Secondary outcome measures were 28-d rebleeding rates and 28-d incidence of CDI.All patients were admitted to a tertiary liver unit with a consultantled,24-h endoscopy service.Patients received standard care including terlipressin therapy.Data collection included:primary and secondary outcome measures,timing of first administration of intravenous antibiotics,eti-ology of liver disease,demographics,endoscopy details and complications.A prospective study was undertaken to determine the incidence of CDI in the study population and general medical inpatients admitted for antibiotic therapy of at least 5 d duration.Statistical analysis was undertaken using univariate,non-parametric tests and multivariate logistic regression analysis.RESULTS:There were 70 first presentations of variceal hemorrhage during the study period.Seventy percent of cases were male and 65.7% were due to chronic alcoholic liver disease.In total,64/70(91.4%) patients received antibiotics as prophylaxis during their admission.Specifically,53/70(75.7%) received antibiotics either before endoscopy or within 8 h of endoscopy [peri-endoscopy(8 h) group],whereas 17/70(24.3%) received antibiotics at > 8 h after endoscopy or not at all(non peri-endoscopy group).Overall mortality and rebleeding rates were 13/70(18.6%) and 14/70(20%),respectively.The periendoscopy(8 h) group was significantly less likely to die compared with the non peri-endoscopy group [13.2% vs 35.3%,P = 0.04,odds ratio(OR) = 0.28(0.078-0.997)] and showed a trend towards reduced rebleeding [17.0% vs 29.4%,P = 0.27,OR = 0.49(0.14-1.74)].On univariate analysis,the non peri-endoscopy group [P = 0.02,OR = 3.58(1.00-12.81)],higher model for end-stage liver disease(MELD) score(P = 0.02),presence of hepatorenal syndrome [P < 0.01,OR = 11.25(2.24-56.42)] and suffering a clinical episode of sepsis [P = 0.03,OR = 4.03(1.11-14.58)] were significant predictors of death at 28 d.On multivariate logistic regression analysis,lower MELD score [P = 0.01,OR = 1.16(1.04-1.28)] and periendoscopy(8 h) group [P = 0.01,OR = 0.15(0.03-0.68)] were independent predictors of survival at 28 d.The CDI incidence(5.7%) was comparable to that in the general medical population(5%).CONCLUSION:Antibiotics administered up to 8 h following endoscopy were associated with improved survival at 28 d.CDI incidence was comparable to that in other patient groups.

Efficacy of Chinese medicine Yi-gan-kang granule in prophylaxis and treatment of liver fibrosis in rats

AIM:To investigate the efficacy of a Chinese medicine, Yi-gan-kang granule (granules for benefiting the liver), in prophylaxis and treatment of liver fibrosis in rats and its possible mechanism. METHODS: One hundred and forty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into seven groups (20 each): group 1, blank control group without any interference during the study; group 2, CCI4-induced liver fibrosis group; group 3, pig serum-induced liver fibrosis group; group 4, prophylaxis group of CCl4-induced liver fibrosis by Yi-gan-kang; group 5, prophylaxis group of pig serum-induced liver fibrosis by Yi-gan-kang; group 6, treatment group of CCI4-induced liver fibrosis by Yi-gan-kang; group 7, treatment group of CCI4-induced liver fibrosis by Yi-gan-kang. At wk 6,10,14 and 20 (baseline for CCl4., or big serum induction), five rats in each group were anesthetized and their livers were removed for pathological studies including immunohistochemical studies for α-SMA, type I collagen and In situ hybridization of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TTMP-1) mRNA of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Anti-lipid peroxidation in isolated mitochondria and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) colorimetric assay for proliferation and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-medicated dUTP-biotin nick end-labeling (TUNEL), flow cytometry and electron microscopy for apoptosis in isolated HSCs were also studied. RESULTS: The mean number of pseudolobuli at wk 10, 14 and 20 in the prophylaxis group was significantly less than that in the control group (P<0.05 or 0.01). The effect of prophylaxis at wk 14 in CCI4 rats and at wk 10 in pig serum-induced rats was much better than that of treatment group (P<0.01). The thickness (in μm) of fibers both in pig serum-induced prophylaxis and in treatment groups at wk 14 and. 20 was significantly less than that in control group (P<0.05). The number of fibers both in prophylaxis and in treatment groups from wk 10 or 14 to 20 was significantly less than that in control group (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The tissue HSC positive rates of type I collagen, α-SMA and TIMP-1 mRNA, which represented the active phenotype of HSCs in tissues, remained very high from wk 6 to the end of model making in control group. While in prophylaxis group, they were at a relatively low level. In treatment group, there was a gradual decreasing trend. Time- and dose-dependent effects of anti-lipid peroxidation on isolated mitochondria, cell proliferation and apoptosis in cultured HSCs were also observed during the study. CONCLUSION: Yi-gan-kang can effectively inhibit or inverse the course of liver fibrogenesis in CCI4- and pig serum-induced rat models.

Efficacy of β-adrenergic blocker plus 5-isosorbide mononitrate and endoscopic band ligation for prophylaxis of esophageal variceal rebleeding:A meta-analysis

AIM: To systematically assess the efficacy and safety of β-adrenergic blocker plus 5-isosorbide mononitrate (BB + ISMN) and endoscopic band ligation (EBL) on prophylaxis of esophageal variceal rebleeding. METHODS: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the efficacy and safety of BB + ISMN and EBL on prophylaxis of esophageal variceal rebleeding were gathered from Medline, Embase, Cochrane Controlled Trial Registry and China Biological Medicine database between January 1980 and August 2007. Data from five trials were extracted and pooled. The analyses of the available data using the Revman 4.2 software were based on the intention-to-treat principle. RESULTS: Four RCTs met the inclusion criteria. In comparison with BB + ISMN with EBL in prophylaxis of esophageal variceal rebleeding, there was no significant difference in the rate of rebleeding [relative risk (RR), 0.79; 95% CI: 0.62-1.00; P = 0.05], bleeding-related mortality (RR, 0.76; 95% CI: 0.31-1.42; P = 0.40), overall mortality (RR, 0.81; 95% CI: 0.61-1.08; P = 0.15) and complications (RR, 1.26; 95% CI: 0.93-1.70; P = 0.13). CONCLUSION:In the prevention of esophageal variceal rebleeding, BB + ISMN are as effective as EBL. There are few complications with the two treatment modalities. Both BB + ISMN and EBL would be considered as the first-line therapy in the prevention of esophageal variceal rebleeding.

Role of band ligation for secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding

AIM To summarize and critically examine the role of band ligation in secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding in patients with cirrhosis. METHODS A literature review was performed using the MEDLINE and PubM ed databases. The search terms consisted of the words "endoscopic band ligation" OR "variceal band ligation" OR "ligation" AND "secondary prophylaxis" OR "secondary prevention" AND "variceal bleeding" OR "variceal hemorrhage" AND "liver cirrhosis". The data collected from relevant meta-analyses and from the most recent randomized studies that were not included in these meta-analyses were used to evaluate the role of endoscopic band ligation in an effort to demonstrate the most recent advances in the treatment of esophageal varices. RESULTS This study included 11 meta-analyses published from 2002 to 2017 and 10 randomized trials published from 2010 to 2017 that evaluated the efficacy of band ligation in the secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding. Overall, the results proved that band ligation was superior to endoscopic sclerotherapy. Moreover, the use of β-blockers in combination with band ligation increased the treatment effectiveness, supporting the current recommendations for secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding. The use of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt was superior to combination therapy regarding rebleeding prophylaxis, with no difference in the survival rates; however, the results concerning the hepatic encephalopathy incidence were conflicting. Recent advances in the management of secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding have targeted a decrease in portal pressure based on the pathophysiological mechanisms of portal hypertension.CONCLUSION This review suggests that future research should be conducted to enhance current interventions and/or to develop innovative treatment options with improved clinical endpoints.

Extended antimicrobial prophylaxis after gastric cancer surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM: To investigate the efficacy of extended antimicrobial prophylaxis (EAP) after gastrectomy by systematic review of literature and meta-analysis. METHODS: Electronic databases of PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure were searched systematically from January 1980 to October 2012. Strict literature retrieval and data extraction were carried out independently by two reviewers and meta-analyses were conducted using RevMan 5.0.2 with statistics tools risk ratios (RRs) and intention-to-treat analyses to evaluate the items of total complications, surgical site infection, incision infection, organ (or space) infection, remote site infection, anastomotic leakage (or dehiscence) and mortality. Fixed model or random model was selected accordingly and forest plot was conducted to display RR. Likewise, Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool was applied to evaluate the quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) included in this meta-analysis. RESULTS: A total of 1095 patients with gastric cancer were enrolled in four RCTs. No statistically significant differences were detected between EAP and intraoperative antimicrobial prophylaxis (IAP) in total complications (RR of 0.86, 95%CI: 0.63-1.16, P = 0.32), surgical site infection (RR of 1.97, 95%CI: 0.86-4.48, P = 0.11), incision infection (RR of 4.92, 95%CI: 0.58-41.66, P = 0.14), organ or space infection (RR of 1.55, 95%CI: 0.61-3.89, P = 0.36), anastomotic leakage or dehiscence (RR of 3.85, 95%CI: 0.64-23.17, P = 0.14) and mortality (RR of 1.14, 95%CI: 0.10-13.12; P = 0.92). Likewise, multiple-dose antimicrobial prophylaxis showed no difference compared with single-dose antimicrobial prophylaxis in surgical site infection (RR of 1.10, 95%CI: 0.62-1.93, P = 0.75). Nevertheless, EAP showed a decreased remote site infection rate compared with IAP alone (RR of 0.54, 95%CI: 0.34-0.86, P = 0.01), which is the only significant finding. Unfortunately, EAP did not decrease the incidence of surgical site infections after gastrectomy; likewise, multipledose antimicrobial prophylaxis failed to decrease the incidence of surgical site infection compared with single-dose antimicrobial prophylaxis. CONCLUSION: We recommend that EAP should not be used routinely after gastrectomy until more high-quality RCTs are available.

Efficacy and Safety of Low Molecular Weight Heparin Prophylaxis for Venous Thromboembolism Following Lumbar Decompression Surgery

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) prophylaxis for venous thromboembolism (VTE) after lumbar decompression surgery. Methods Patients at high or the highest risk of VTE who underwent lumbar spine surgery in Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 2004 to April 2011 were included in the present study. All the patients received a half dose of LMWH 6 hours after surgery followed by a full dose LMWH once per day until discharge. We recorded incidences of deep venous thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), bleeding complications, and medication side effects. Results Seventy-eight consecutive patients were eligible and enrolled in this study. The mean hospital stat was 8.5±4.5 days. No symptomatic DVT, PE, or major bleeding events were observed. One patient developed wound ecchymosis, another developed wound bleeding, four had mild hepatic aminotransferase level elevation, and one developed a suspicious allergic reaction. Conclusion LMWH may be applied as an effective and safe prophylaxis for VTE in high-risk patients undergoing lumbar decompression surgery.

Potential of Arbidol for Post-exposure Prophylaxis of COVID-19 Transmission:A Preliminary Report of a Retrospective Cohort Study

The efficient transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome-2 coronavirus(SARS-CoV-2)from patients to health care workers or family members has been a worrisome and prominent feature of the ongoing outbreak.On the basis of clinical practice and in-vitro studies,we postulated that post-exposure prophylaxis(PEP)using Arbidol is associated with decreased infection among individuals exposed to confirmed cases of COVID-19 infection.We conducted a retrospective cohort study on family members and health care workers who were exposed to patients confirmed to have SARS-CoV-2 infection by real-time RT-PCR and chest computed tomography(CT)from January 1 to January 16,2020.The last follow-up date was Feb.26,2020.The emergence of fever and/or respiratory symptoms after exposure to the primary case was collected.The correlations between post-exposure prophylaxis and infection in household contacts and health care workers were respectively analyzed.A total of 66 members in 27 families and 124 health care workers had evidence of close exposure to patients with confirmed COVID-19.The Cox regression based on the data of the family members and health care workers with Arbidol or not showed that Arbidol PEP was a protective factor against the development of COVID-19(HR 0.025,95%CI 0.003-0.209,P=0.0006 for family members and HR 0.056,95%CI 0.005-0.662,P=0.0221 for health care workers).Our findings suggest Arbidol could reduce the infection risk of the novel coronavirus in hospital and family settings.This treatment should be promoted for PEP use and should be the subject of further investigation.