Observation of Seven Astrophysical Tau Neutrino Candidates with IceCube

We report on a measurement of astrophysical tau neutrinos with 9.7 yr of IceCube data. Using convolutional neural networks trained on images derived from simulated events, seven candidate ν_{τ} events were found with visible energies ranging from roughly 20 TeV to 1 PeV and a median expected parent ν_{τ} energy of about 200 TeV. Considering backgrounds from astrophysical and atmospheric neutrinos, and muons from π^{±}/K^{±} decays in atmospheric air showers, we obtain a total estimated background of about 0.5 events, dominated by non-ν_{τ} astrophysical neutrinos. Thus, we rule out the absence of astrophysical ν_{τ} at the 5σ level. The measured astrophysical ν_{τ} flux is consistent with expectations based on previously published IceCube astrophysical neutrino flux measurements and neutrino oscillations.

Invasive Fungal Diseases in Adult Patients in Intensive Care Unit (FUNDICU): 2024 consensus definitions from ESGCIP, EFISG, ESICM, ECMM, MSGERC, ISAC, and ISHAM

PURPOSE

The aim of this document was to develop standardized research definitions of invasive fungal diseases (IFD) in non-neutropenic, adult patients without classical host factors for IFD, admitted to intensive care units (ICUs).

METHODS

After a systematic assessment of the diagnostic performance for IFD in the target population of already existing definitions and laboratory tests, consensus definitions were developed by a panel of experts using the RAND/UCLA appropriateness method.

RESULTS

Standardized research definitions were developed for proven invasive candidiasis, probable deep-seated candidiasis, proven invasive aspergillosis, probable invasive pulmonary aspergillosis, and probable tracheobronchial aspergillosis. The limited evidence on the performance of existing definitions and laboratory tests for the diagnosis of IFD other than candidiasis and aspergillosis precluded the development of dedicated definitions, at least pending further data. The standardized definitions provided in the present document are aimed to speed-up the design, and increase the feasibility, of future comparative research studies.

Risk factors for surgical site infection following cardiac surgery in a region endemic for multidrug resistant organisms

OBJECTIVES

To identify risk factors for surgical site infections following cardiosurgery in an area endemic for multidrug resistant organisms.

DESIGN

Single-center, historical cohort study including patients who underwent cardiosurgery during a 6-year period (2014-2020).

SETTING

Joint Commission International accredited, multiorgan transplant center in Palermo, Italy.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Surgical site infection was the main outcome.

RESULTS

On a total of 3609 cardiosurgery patients, 184 developed surgical site infection (5.1 %). Intestinal colonization with multidrug resistant organisms was more frequent in patients with surgical site infections (69.6 % vs. 33.3 %; p < 0.001). About half of surgical site infections were caused by Gram-negative bacteria (n = 97; 52.7 %). Fifty surgical site infections were caused by multidrug resistant organisms (27.1 %), with extended-spectrum Beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (n = 16; 8.7 %) and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (n = 26; 14.1 %) being the predominant resistance problem. However, in only 24 of surgical site infections caused by multidrug resistant organisms (48 %), mostly carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (n = 22), a pathogen match between the rectal surveillance culture and surgical site infections clinical culture was demonstrated. Nevertheless, multivariate logistic regression analysis identified a rectal swab culture positive for multidrug resistant organisms as an independent risk factor for SSI (odds ratio 3.95, 95 % confidence interval 2.79-5.60). Other independent risk factors were female sex, chronic dialysis, diabetes mellitus, previous cardiosurgery, previous myocardial infarction, being overweight/obese, and longer intubation time.

CONCLUSION

In an area endemic for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales, intestinal colonization with multidrug resistant organisms was recognized as independent risk factor for surgical site infections.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE

No causal relationship between colonization with resistant pathogens and subsequent infection could be demonstrated. However, from a broader epidemiological perspective, having a positive multidrug resistant organisms colonization status appeared a risk factor for surgical site infections. Therefore, strict infection control measures to prevent cross-transmission remain pivotal (e.g., nasal decolonization, hand hygiene, and skin antisepsis).

Epidemiology and risk factors for mortality in critically ill patients with pancreatic infection

Background

The AbSeS-classification defines specific phenotypes of patients with intra-abdominal infection based on the (1) setting of infection onset (community-acquired, early onset, or late-onset hospital-acquired), (2) presence or absence of either localized or diffuse peritonitis, and (3) severity of disease expression (infection, sepsis, or septic shock). This classification system demonstrated reliable risk stratification in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with intra-abdominal infection. This study aimed to describe the epidemiology of ICU patients with pancreatic infection and assess the relationship between the components of the AbSeS-classification and mortality.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of an international observational study ("AbSeS") investigating ICU patients with intra-abdominal infection. Only patients with pancreatic infection were included in this analysis (n=165). Mortality was defined as ICU mortality within 28 days of observation for patients discharged earlier from the ICU. Relationships with mortality were assessed using logistic regression analysis and reported as odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

The overall mortality was 35.2% (n=58). The independent risk factors for mortality included older age (OR=1.03, 95% CI: 1.0 to 1.1 P=0.023), localized peritonitis (OR=4.4, 95% CI: 1.4 to 13.9 P=0.011), and persistent signs of inflammation at day 7 (OR=9.5, 95% CI: 3.8 to 23.9, P<0.001) or after the implementation of additional source control interventions within the first week (OR=4.0, 95% CI: 1.3 to 12.2, P=0.013). Gram-negative bacteria were most frequently isolated (n=58, 49.2%) without clinically relevant differences in microbial etiology between survivors and non-survivors.

Conclusions

In pancreatic infection, a challenging source/damage control and ongoing pancreatic inflammation appear to be the strongest contributors to an unfavorable short-term outcome. In this limited series, essentials of the AbSeS-classification, such as the setting of infection onset, diffuse peritonitis, and severity of disease expression, were not associated with an increased mortality risk.ClinicalTrials.gov number: NCT03270345.

Severe Candida infections in critically ill patients with COVID-19

The frequency of co-infections with bacterial or fungal pathogens has constantly increased among critically ill patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) during the pandemic. Candidemia was the most frequently reported invasive fungal co-infection. The onset of candidemia in COVID-19 patients was often delayed compared to non-COVID-19 patients. Additionally, Candida invasive infections in COVID-19 patients were more often linked to invasive procedures (e.g., invasive mechanical ventilation or renal replacement therapy) during the intensive care stay and the severity of illness rather than more "classic" risk factors present in patients without COVID-19 (e.g., underlying diseases and prior hospitalization). Moreover, apart from the increased incidence of candidemia during the pandemic, a worrying rise in fluconazole-resistant strains was reported, including a rise in the multidrug-resistant Candida auris. Regarding outcomes, the development of invasive Candida co-infection had a negative impact, increasing morbidity and mortality compared to non-co-infected COVID-19 patients. In this narrative review, we present and critically discuss information on the diagnosis and management of invasive fungal infections caused by Candida spp. in critically ill COVID-19 patients.

Prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia through care bundles: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) represents a common hospital-acquired infection among mechanically ventilated patients. We summarized evidence concerning ventilator care bundles to prevent VAP.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed. Randomized controlled trials and controlled observational studies of adults undergoing mechanical ventilation (MV) for at least 48 h were considered for inclusion. Outcomes of interest were the number of VAP episodes, duration of MV, hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay, and mortality. A systematic search was conducted in the MEDLINE, the Cochrane Library, and the Web of Science between 1985 and 2022. Results are reported as odds ratio (OR) or mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The PROSPERO registration number is CRD42022341780.

Results

Thirty-six studies including 116,873 MV participants met the inclusion criteria. A total of 84,031 participants underwent care bundles for VAP prevention. The most reported component of the ventilator bundle was head-of-bed elevation (n=83,146), followed by oral care (n=80,787). A reduction in the number of VAP episodes was observed among those receiving ventilator care bundles, compared with the non-care bundle group (OR=0.42, 95% CI: 0.33, 0.54). Additionally, the implementation of care bundles decreased the duration of MV (MD=-0.59, 95% CI: -1.03, -0.15) and hospital length of stay (MD=-1.24, 95% CI: -2.30, -0.18) in studies where educational activities were part of the bundle. Data regarding mortality were inconclusive.

Conclusions

The implementation of ventilator care bundles reduced the number of VAP episodes and the duration of MV in adult ICUs. Their application in combination with educational activities seemed to improve clinical outcomes.

Ten golden rules for optimal antibiotic use in hospital settings: the WARNING call to action

Antibiotics are recognized widely for their benefits when used appropriately. However, they are often used inappropriately despite the importance of responsible use within good clinical practice. Effective antibiotic treatment is an essential component of universal healthcare, and it is a global responsibility to ensure appropriate use. Currently, pharmaceutical companies have little incentive to develop new antibiotics due to scientific, regulatory, and financial barriers, further emphasizing the importance of appropriate antibiotic use. To address this issue, the Global Alliance for Infections in Surgery established an international multidisciplinary task force of 295 experts from 115 countries with different backgrounds. The task force developed a position statement called WARNING (Worldwide Antimicrobial Resistance National/International Network Group) aimed at raising awareness of antimicrobial resistance and improving antibiotic prescribing practices worldwide. The statement outlined is 10 axioms, or "golden rules," for the appropriate use of antibiotics that all healthcare workers should consistently adhere in clinical practice.

Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in the ICU: tale of a broadening risk profile

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In the absence of histopathological proof, the diagnosis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is usually based on mycology (not on tissue), medical imaging, and the patient's risk profile for acquiring invasive fungal disease. Here, we review the changes in risk profile for IPA that took place over the past decades.

RECENT FINDINGS

In the early 2000s IPA was considered exclusively a disease of immunocompromised patients. Particularly in the context of critical illness, the risk profile has been broadened steadily. Acute viral infection by influenza or SARS-Cov-2 are now well recognized risk factors for IPA.

SUMMARY

The classic risk profile ('host factors') reflecting an immunocompromised status was first enlarged by a spectrum of chronic conditions such as AIDS, cirrhosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In the presence of critical illness, especially characterized by sepsis and/or severe respiratory distress, any chronic condition could add to the risk profile. Recently, acute viral infections have been associated with IPA leading to the concepts of influenza-associated IPA and COVID-19-associated IPA. These viral infections may affect patients without underlying disease. Hence, the risk for IPA is now a reality for ICU patients, even in the absence of any chronic conditions.

Clinical Sepsis Phenotypes in Critically Ill Patients

Sepsis, defined as the life-threatening dysregulated host response to an infection leading to organ dysfunction, is considered as one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, especially in intensive care units (ICU). Moreover, sepsis remains an enigmatic clinical syndrome, with complex pathophysiology incompletely understood and a great heterogeneity both in terms of clinical expression, patient response to currently available therapeutic interventions and outcomes. This heterogeneity proves to be a major obstacle in our quest to deliver improved treatment in septic critical care patients; thus, identification of clinical phenotypes is absolutely necessary. Although this might be seen as an extremely difficult task, nowadays, artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques can be recruited to quantify similarities between individuals within sepsis population and differentiate them into distinct phenotypes regarding not only temperature, hemodynamics or type of organ dysfunction, but also fluid status/responsiveness, trajectories in ICU and outcome. Hopefully, we will eventually manage to determine both the subgroup of septic patients that will benefit from a therapeutic intervention and the correct timing of applying the intervention during the disease process.

Observation of high-energy neutrinos from the Galactic plane

The origin of high-energy cosmic rays, atomic nuclei that continuously impact Earth's atmosphere, is unknown. Because of deflection by interstellar magnetic fields, cosmic rays produced within the Milky Way arrive at Earth from random directions. However, cosmic rays interact with matter near their sources and during propagation, which produces high-energy neutrinos. We searched for neutrino emission using machine learning techniques applied to 10 years of data from the IceCube Neutrino Observatory. By comparing diffuse emission models to a background-only hypothesis, we identified neutrino emission from the Galactic plane at the 4.5σ level of significance. The signal is consistent with diffuse emission of neutrinos from the Milky Way but could also arise from a population of unresolved point sources.

Novel Antimicrobial Agents for Gram-Negative Pathogens

Gram-negative bacterial resistance to antimicrobials has had an exponential increase at a global level during the last decades and represent an everyday challenge, especially for the hospital practice of our era. Concerted efforts from the researchers and the industry have recently provided several novel promising antimicrobials, resilient to various bacterial resistance mechanisms. There are new antimicrobials that became commercially available during the last five years, namely, cefiderocol, imipenem-cilastatin-relebactam, eravacycline, omadacycline, and plazomicin. Furthermore, other agents are in advanced development, having reached phase 3 clinical trials, namely, aztreonam-avibactam, cefepime-enmetazobactam, cefepime-taniborbactam, cefepime-zidebactam, sulopenem, tebipenem, and benapenem. In this present review, we critically discuss the characteristics of the above-mentioned antimicrobials, their pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties and the current clinical data.

Clinical Phenotypes of COVID-19 Associated Mucormycosis (CAM): A Comprehensive Review

A mucormycosis surge was reported during the COVID-19 pandemic in India. A literature search until 14 July 2022, with the aim of updating COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM), identified 663 studies and 88 met inclusion criteria (8727 patients). India reported 8388 patients, Egypt 208 and Europe 40. Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) was identified among 8082 (98.3%) patients, followed by 98 (1.2%) with pulmonary. In India, 82.6% of patients had diabetes mellitus, with 82% receiving corticosteroids. In Europe, 75% presented pulmonary CAM, 32.5% had diabetes and 40% were immunocompromised. CAM was identified at a median of 17.4 days (IQR 7.5 days) post COVID-19 diagnosis, and PCR was performed in five studies. Rhino-orbital invasion is clinically obvious, while cerebral involvement presents with cavernous sinus thrombosis, meningitis and cerebrovascular disease. Symptoms of pulmonary CAM usually overlap with severe COVID-19 pneumonia. High-dose liposomal Amphotericin B (and early surgical debridement in ROCM) are the mainstay of therapy. The median mortality rate was estimated to be 21.4% (IQR 31.9%), increased by the presence of pulmonary (80% (IQR 50%) or cerebral involvement (50% (IQR 63.9%). In summary, different CAM clinical phenotypes need to be distinguished, influenced by geographical presentation. Opportunities exist for diagnosis and therapy optimization, based on earlier high-dose antifungal therapy, early source control, strict glycemic control and restriction of steroids to COVID-19 patients with oxygen requirements.

Prevalence of skin pressure injury in critical care patients in the UK: results of a single-day point prevalence evaluation in adult critically ill patients

OBJECTIVES

Hospital-acquired pressure injuries (PIs) are a source of morbidity and mortality, and many are potentially preventable.

DESIGN

This study prospectively evaluated the prevalence and the associated factors of PIs in adult critical care patients admitted to intensive care units (ICU) in the UK.

SETTING

This service evaluation was part of a larger, international, single-day point prevalence study of PIs in adult ICU patients. Training was provided to healthcare givers using an electronic platform to ensure standardised recognition and staging of PIs across all sites.

PARTICIPANTS

The characteristics of the ICUs were recorded before the survey; deidentified patient data were collected using a case report form and uploaded onto a secure online platform.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Factors associated with ICU-acquired PIs in the UK were analysed descriptively and using mixed multiple logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Data from 1312 adult patients admitted to 94 UK ICUs were collected. The proportion of individuals with at least one PI was 16% (211 out of 1312 patients), of whom 8.8% (n=115/1312) acquired one or more PIs in the ICU and 7.3% (n=96/1312) prior to ICU admission. The total number of PIs was 311, of which 148 (47.6%) were acquired in the ICU. The location of majority of these PIs was the sacral area, followed by the heels. Braden score and prior length of ICU stay were associated with PI development.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence and the stage of severity of PIs were generally low in adult critically ill patients admitted to participating UK ICUs during the study period. However, PIs are a problem in an important minority of patients. Lower Braden score and longer length of ICU stay were associated with the development of injuries; most ICUs assess risk using tools which do not account for this.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03270345.

Evidence for neutrino emission from the nearby active galaxy NGC 1068

A supermassive black hole, obscured by cosmic dust, powers the nearby active galaxy NGC 1068. Neutrinos, which rarely interact with matter, could provide information on the galaxy’s active core. We searched for neutrino emission from astrophysical objects using data recorded with the IceCube neutrino detector between 2011 and 2020. The positions of 110 known gamma-ray sources were individually searched for neutrino detections above atmospheric and cosmic backgrounds. We found that NGC 1068 has an excess of 79 − 20 + 22 neutrinos at tera–electron volt energies, with a global significance of 4.2σ, which we interpret as associated with the active galaxy. The flux of high-energy neutrinos that we measured from NGC 1068 is more than an order of magnitude higher than the upper limit on emissions of tera–electron volt gamma rays from this source.

Poor timing and failure of source control are risk factors for mortality in critically ill patients with secondary peritonitis

PURPOSE

To describe data on epidemiology, microbiology, clinical characteristics and outcome of adult patients admitted in the intensive care unit (ICU) with secondary peritonitis, with special emphasis on antimicrobial therapy and source control.

METHODS

Post hoc analysis of a multicenter observational study (Abdominal Sepsis Study, AbSeS) including 2621 adult ICU patients with intra-abdominal infection in 306 ICUs from 42 countries. Time-till-source control intervention was calculated as from time of diagnosis and classified into 'emergency' (< 2 h), 'urgent' (2-6 h), and 'delayed' (> 6 h). Relationships were assessed by logistic regression analysis and reported as odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

The cohort included 1077 cases of microbiologically confirmed secondary peritonitis. Mortality was 29.7%. The rate of appropriate empiric therapy showed no difference between survivors and non-survivors (66.4% vs. 61.3%, p = 0.1). A stepwise increase in mortality was observed with increasing Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores (19.6% for a value ≤ 4-55.4% for a value > 12, p < 0.001). The highest odds of death were associated with septic shock (OR 3.08 [1.42-7.00]), late-onset hospital-acquired peritonitis (OR 1.71 [1.16-2.52]) and failed source control evidenced by persistent inflammation at day 7 (OR 5.71 [3.99-8.18]). Compared with 'emergency' source control intervention (< 2 h of diagnosis), 'urgent' source control was the only modifiable covariate associated with lower odds of mortality (OR 0.50 [0.34-0.73]).

CONCLUSION

'Urgent' and successful source control was associated with improved odds of survival. Appropriateness of empirical antimicrobial treatment did not significantly affect survival suggesting that source control is more determinative for outcome.

Pressure injury prevalence in Australian intensive care units: A secondary analysis

BACKGROUND

Pressure injuries (PIs) are an enduring problem for patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) because of their vulnerability and numerous risk factors.

METHOD

This study reports Australian data as a subset of data from an international 1-day point prevalence study of ICU-acquired PI in adult patients. Patients aged 18 years or older and admitted to the ICU on the study day were included. The outcome measure was the identification of a PI by direct visual skin assessment on the study day. Data collected included demographic data and clinical risk factors, PI location and stage, and PI prevention strategies used. Descriptive statistics were used to describe PI characteristics, and odds ratios (ORs) were used to identify factors associated with the development of a PI.

RESULTS

Data were collected from 288 patients from 16 Australian ICUs. ICU-acquired PI prevalence was 9.7%, with 40 PIs identified on 28 patients. Most PIs were of stage 1 and stage 2 (26/40, 65.0%). Half of the ICU-acquired PIs were found on the head and face. The odds of developing an ICU-acquired PI increased significantly with renal replacement therapy (OR: 4.25, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.49-12.11), impaired mobility (OR: 3.13, 95% CI: 1.08-9.12), fastest respiratory rate (OR: 1.05 [per breath per minute], 95% CI: 1.00-1.10), longer stay in the ICU (OR: 1.04 [per day], 95% CI: 1.01-1.06), and mechanical ventilation on admission (OR: 0.36, CI: 0.14-0.91).

CONCLUSION

This study found that Australian ICU-acquired PI prevalence was 9.7% and these PIs were associated with many risk factors. Targeted PI prevention strategies should be incorporated into routine prevention approaches to reduce the burden of PIs in the Australian adult ICU patient population.

Search for Unstable Sterile Neutrinos with the IceCube Neutrino Observatory

We present a search for an unstable sterile neutrino by looking for a resonant signal in eight years of atmospheric ν_{μ} data collected from 2011 to 2019 at the IceCube Neutrino Observatory. Both the (stable) three-neutrino and the 3+1 sterile neutrino models are disfavored relative to the unstable sterile neutrino model, though with p values of 2.8% and 0.81%, respectively, we do not observe evidence for 3+1 neutrinos with neutrino decay. The best-fit parameters for the sterile neutrino with decay model from this study are Δm_{41}^{2}=6.7_{-2.5}^{+3.9}  eV^{2}, sin^{2}2θ_{24}=0.33_{-0.17}^{+0.20}, and g^{2}=2.5π±1.5π, where g is the decay-mediating coupling. The preferred regions of the 3+1+decay model from short-baseline oscillation searches are excluded at 90% C.L.

Strong Constraints on Neutrino Nonstandard Interactions from TeV-Scale ν_{μ} Disappearance at IceCube

We report a search for nonstandard neutrino interactions (NSI) using eight years of TeV-scale atmospheric muon neutrino data from the IceCube Neutrino Observatory. By reconstructing incident energies and zenith angles for atmospheric neutrino events, this analysis presents unified confidence intervals for the NSI parameter ε_{μτ}. The best-fit value is consistent with no NSI at a p value of 25.2%. With a 90% confidence interval of -0.0041≤ε_{μτ}≤0.0031 along the real axis and similar strength in the complex plane, this result is the strongest constraint on any NSI parameter from any oscillation channel to date.

Healthcare-associated infections in adult intensive care unit patients: Changes in epidemiology, diagnosis, prevention and contributions of new technologies

Patients in intensive care units (ICUs) are at high risk for healthcare-acquired infections (HAI) due to the high prevalence of invasive procedures and devices, induced immunosuppression, comorbidity, frailty and increased age. Over the past decade we have seen a successful reduction in the incidence of HAI related to invasive procedures and devices. However, the rate of ICU-acquired infections remains high. Within this context, the ongoing emergence of new pathogens, further complicates treatment and threatens patient outcomes. Additionally, the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted the challenge that an emerging pathogen provides in adapting prevention measures regarding both the risk of exposure to caregivers and the need to maintain quality of care. ICU nurses hold a special place in the prevention and management of HAI as they are involved in basic hygienic care, steering and implementing quality improvement initiatives, correct microbiological sampling, and aspects antibiotic stewardship. The emergence of more sensitive microbiological techniques and our increased knowledge about interactions between critically ill patients and their microbiota are leading us to rethink how we define HAIs and best strategies to diagnose, treat and prevent these infections in the ICU. This multidisciplinary expert review, focused on the ICU setting, will summarise the recent epidemiology of ICU-HAI, discuss the place of modern microbiological techniques in their diagnosis, review operational and epidemiological definitions and redefine the place of several controversial preventive measures including antimicrobial-impregnated medical devices, chlorhexidine-impregnated washcloths, catheter dressings and chlorhexidine-based mouthwashes. Finally, general guidance is suggested that may reduce HAI incidence and especially outbreaks in ICUs.

Antiseptic barrier caps in central line-associated bloodstream infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the evidence concerning the effectiveness of antiseptic barrier caps vs. manual disinfection in preventing central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI).

METHODS

The protocol of this systematic review and meta-analysis was pre-registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021259582). PubMed, Cochrane Library and Web of Science databases were searched from 2011 to 2021. Randomized-controlled trials (RCT) and observational studies on hospitalized patients of any age were included.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies were included. Compared with manual disinfection, antiseptic barrier caps significantly reduced CLABSI rate per 1000 line-days (Standardized Mean Difference [SMD]: -0.02; 95%CI: -0.03 to -0.01) and number of CLABSI per patient (RR: 0.60; 95%CI: 0.41-0.89). Subgroup analysis showed that antiseptic barrier caps were more effective in reducing CLABSI rate per 1000 line-days in ICU (SMD: -0.02; 95%CI: -0.03 to -0.01) and non-ICU patients (SMD: -0.03; 95%CI: -0.05 to -0.01), adults (SMD: -0.02; 95%CI: -0.04 to -0.01), as in observational studies (SMD: -0.02; 95%CI: -0.02 to -0.01). Antiseptic barrier caps also significantly reduce CLABSI risk in ICU patients (RR: 0.65, 95%CI: 0.42-1.00), adults (RR: 0.50, 95%CI: 0.29-0.86), and observational studies (RR: 0.54; 95%CI: 0.32-0.91). No differences were found when only children or RCTs were taken into account. Median cost savings amongst studies were $21,890 [IQR 16,350-45,000] per CLABSI.

CONCLUSIONS

Antiseptic barrier caps appear to be effective in reducing CLABSI. The real-world impact needs to be confirmed by RCTs.

Epidemiology and Age-Related Mortality in Critically Ill Patients With Intra-Abdominal Infection or Sepsis: An International Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study is to describe the epidemiology and age-related mortality in older critically ill adults with intra-abdominal infections.

METHODS

This is a secondary analysis of a prospective, multinational, observational study (AbSeS, ClinicalTrials.gov #NCT03270345) including patients with intra-abdominal infection from 309 ICUs in 42 countries (January-December, 2016). Mortality was considered as ICU mortality with a minimum of 28 days of observation when patients were discharged earlier. Relationships with mortality were assessed by logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

The cohort included 2337 patients. Four age groups were defined: middle-aged patients as reference category (40-59 years; n=659 [28.2%]), young-old (60-69 years; n=622 [26.6%]), middle-old (70-79 years; n=667 [28.5%]) and very-old patients (≥80 years; n=389 [16.6%]). Secondary peritonitis was the predominant infection (68.7%) and equally prevalent across age groups. Mortality increased with age: 20.9% in middle-aged patients, 30.5% in young-old, 31.2% in middle-old, and 44.7% in very-old patients (p<0.001). Compared to middle-aged patients, young-old age (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.21-2.17), middle-old age (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.35-2.41), and very-old age (OR 3.69, 95% CI 2.66-5.12) were independently associated with mortality. Other independent risk factors for mortality included late-onset hospital-acquired intra-abdominal infection, diffuse peritonitis, sepsis/septic shock, source control failure, liver disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes, and malnutrition.

CONCLUSIONS

For ICU patients with intra-abdominal infections, age above 60 years was associated with mortality while patients above 80 years had the worst prognosis. Comorbidities and overall disease severity further compromised survival. As all these factors are non-modifiable it remains unclear how to improve outcomes.

The COVID-19 vaccination acceptance/hesitancy rate and its determinants among healthcare workers of 91 Countries: A multicenter cross-sectional study

The aim of this study was to investigate the COVID-19 vaccination acceptance rate and its determinants among healthcare workers in a multicenter study. This was a cross-sectional multi-center survey conducted from February 5 to April 29, 2021. The questionnaire consisted of 26 items in 6 subscales. The English version of the questionnaire was translated into seven languages and distributed through Google Forms using snowball sampling; a colleague in each country was responsible for the forward and backward translation, and also the distribution of the questionnaire. A forward stepwise logistic regression was utilized to explore the variables and questionnaire factors tied to the intention to COVID-19 vaccination. 4630 participants from 91 countries completed the questionnaire. According to the United Nations Development Program 2020, 43.6 % of participants were from low Human Development Index (HDI) regions, 48.3 % high and very high, and 8.1 % from medium. The overall vaccination hesitancy rate was 37 %. Three out of six factors of the questionnaire were significantly related to intention to the vaccination. While 'Perceived benefits of the COVID-19 vaccination' (OR: 3.82, p-value<0.001) and 'Prosocial norms' (OR: 5.18, p-value<0.001) were associated with vaccination acceptance, 'The vaccine safety/cost concerns' with OR: 3.52, p-value<0.001 was tied to vaccination hesitancy. Medical doctors and pharmacists were more willing to take the vaccine in comparison to others. Importantly, HDI with OR: 12.28, 95 % CI: 6.10-24.72 was a strong positive determinant of COVID-19 vaccination acceptance. This study highlighted the vaccination hesitancy rate of 37 % in our sample among HCWs. Increasing awareness regarding vaccination benefits, confronting the misinformation, and strengthening the prosocial norms would be the primary domains for maximizing the vaccination coverage. The study also showed that the HDI is strongly associated with the vaccination acceptance/hesitancy, in a way that those living in low HDI contexts are more hesitant to receive the vaccine.

Search for Relativistic Magnetic Monopoles with Eight Years of IceCube Data

We present an all-sky 90% confidence level upper limit on the cosmic flux of relativistic magnetic monopoles using 2886 days of IceCube data. The analysis was optimized for monopole speeds between 0.750c and 0.995c, without any explicit restriction on the monopole mass. We constrain the flux of relativistic cosmic magnetic monopoles to a level below 2.0×10^{-19}  cm^{-2} s^{-1} sr^{-1} over the majority of the targeted speed range. This result constitutes the most strict upper limit to date for magnetic monopoles with β≳0.8 and up to β∼0.995 and fills the gap between existing limits on the cosmic flux of nonrelativistic and ultrarelativistic magnetic monopoles.

Effect of a backboard on chest compression quality during in-hospital adult cardiopulmonary resuscitation: A randomised, single-blind, controlled trial using a manikin model

INTRODUCTION

Chest compression quality during in-hospital resuscitation is often suboptimal on a soft surface. Scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of a backboard is scarce. This single-blinded manikin study evaluated the effect of a backboard on compression depth, rate and chest recoil performed by nurses. Sex, BMI, age and clinical department were considered as potential predictors.

METHODS

Using self-learning, nurses were retrained to achieve a minimal combined compression score at baseline. This combined score consisted of ≥70% compressions with depth 50-60 mm, ≥70% compressions with complete release (≤5mm) and a mean compression rate of 100-120 bpm. Subsequently, nurses were allocated to a backboard or control group and performed a two-minute cardiopulmonary resuscitation test. The main outcome measure was the difference in proportion of participants achieving a combined compression score of ≥70%.

RESULTS

In total 278 nurses were retrained, 158 nurses dropped out and 120 were allocated to the backboard (n = 61) or control group (n = 59). The proportion of participants achieving a combined compression score of ≥70% was not significantly different (p = 0.475) and suboptimal in both groups: backboard group 47.5% (backboard) versus 41.0% (control). Older age (≥51 years) was associated with a lower probability of achieving a combined compression score >70% [OR = 0.133; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.037-0.479; p = 0.002].

CONCLUSION

Using a backboard did not significantly improve compression quality in our study. Important decay of compression skills was observed in both groups, highlighting the importance of frequent retraining, particularly in some age groups.

Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in solid-organ transplant patients in the intensive care unit

INTRODUCTION

Solid-organ transplantation (SOT) is a well-known risk factor for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). We report on the epidemiology and outcome of SOT patients with IPA in an intensive care unit (ICU) setting.

METHODS

This is a secondary study based on a subset of SOT patients from a prospective observational multicenter cohort (the AspICU project) including ICU patients with at least one Aspergillus spp. positive culture. Cases were classified as proven, probable, or putative IPA, or as Aspergillus-colonized. Mortality was reported at 12 weeks.

RESULTS

The study included 52 SOT patients (of which 18 lung, 17 liver, 12 kidney, and five heart transplants). Sixteen patients had proven IPA, 28 were categorized as putative IPA (of which only five reached a probable IPA diagnosis according to the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer/Mycosis Study Group and Research Consortium criteria), and eight as Aspergillus-colonization. Among patients with IPA, 20 (45.5%) developed IPA during their ICU stay following transplantation whereas 24 patients (54.5%) had a medical ICU admission. Regarding medical imaging, nearly all IPA cases presented with non-specific findings as only nine demonstrated robust findings suggestive for invasive fungal disease. Overall, severity of the disease was reflected by a high prevalence of underlying conditions and acute organ derangements. Mortality among patients with IPA was 68%. Lung transplantation was associated with better survival (50%).

CONCLUSION

IPA in SOT patients in the ICU develops in the presence of overall high severity of the disease. It rarely presents with suggestive medical imaging thereby hampering diagnosis. IPA in ICU patients with SOT carries a grim prognosis.

Pressure injury prevalence and risk factors in Chinese adult intensive care units: A multi-centre prospective point prevalence study

Despite increasing preventive efforts, pressure injury still occurs in intensive care patients. This study was aimed to describe pressure injury prevalence, risk factors, and prevention practices in adult intensive care patients. This was a multi-centre, one-day, prospective point prevalence study in which a total of 198 intensive care units from 21 provinces in China participated. Overall and ICU-acquired prevalence in intensive care patients were 12.26% and 4.31%, respectively. Consistent with earlier reports, almost half of the ICU-acquired pressure injuries were at stage I, one-fourth were at stage 2, and the most common body sites for pressure injuries were sacral and heel region. Risk factors identified were consistent with prior studies. Repositioning was the most commonly used pressure injury prevention strategy, followed by alternating pressure mattresses/overlays, floating heels, and air-filled mattresses/overlays. These reflect a good level of adherence to recommended international pressure injury prevention clinical practice guidelines. The results provide a baseline reference for overall and ICU-acquired prevalence among adult intensive care patients in China. Future research on what contributed to the lower pressure injury incidence in China needs to be conducted to inform healthcare organisations on their future preventive strategies for pressure injury prevention.

Intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome in the critically ill liver cirrhotic patient-prevalence and clinical outcomes. A multicentric retrospective cohort study in intensive care

Background

Liver cirrhosis and ascites are risk factors for intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS); however, data is scarce. We aimed to determine the prevalence of IAH/ACS in a population of critically ill cirrhotic patients with acute medical illness in intensive care and to assess for risk factors and clinical outcomes.

Methods

This was a multicentric retrospective cohort study including two general ICUs and pooled data from a multicentric study between January 2009 and October 2019.

Results

A total of 9,345 patients were screened, and 95 were included in the analysis. Mean age was 56.7±1.3 years, and 79% were male. Liver cirrhosis etiology included alcohol in 45.3% and alcohol plus hepatitis C virus in 9.5%. Precipitating events included infection in 26% and bleeding in 21% of cases. Mean severity score MELD and SAPS II were 26.2±9.9 and 48.5±15.3, respectively, at ICU admission. The prevalence of IAH and ACS was respectively 82.1% and 23.2% with a mean value of maximum IAP of 16.0±5.7 mmHg and IAH grades: absent 17.9%, I 26.3%, II 33.7%, III 17.9%, and IV 4.2%. Independent risk factors for IAH were alcoholic cirrhosis (p = 0.01), West-Haven score (p = 0.01), and PaO2/FiO2 ratio (p = 0.02); as well as infection (p = 0.048) for ACS. Overall, 28-day mortality was 52.6% associated with higher IAP and ACS, and independent risk factors were MELD (p = 0.001), white blood cell count (p = 0.03), PaO2/FiO2 ratio (p = 0.03), and lactate concentration (p = 0.04) at ICU admission.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates a very high prevalence of IAH/ACS in the critically ill cirrhotic patient in intensive care. Increased IAP and ACS were associated with severity of disease and adverse outcomes and independent risk factors for IAH were alcoholic cirrhosis, hepatic encephalopathy and PO2/FiO2 ratio, as well as infection for ACS. Early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of IAH/ACS might improve outcome in critically ill cirrhotic patients.