Hemostasis Using Prothrombin Complex Concentrate in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery: Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis

ABSTRACT Objective: The purpose of present study was to comprehensively explore the efficacy and safety of prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) to treat massive bleeding in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Methods: PubMed®, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for studies investigating PCC administration during cardiac surgery published before September 10, 2022. Mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was applied to analyze continuous data, and dichotomous data were analyzed as risk ratio (RR) with 95% CI. Results: Twelve studies were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with other non-PCC treatment regimens, PCC was not associated with elevated mortality (RR=1.18, 95% CI=0.86-1.60, P=0.30, I2=0%), shorter hospital stay (MD=-2.17 days; 95% CI=-5.62-1.28, P=0.22, I2=91%), reduced total thoracic drainage (MD=-67.94 ml, 95% CI=-239.52-103.65, P=0.44, I2=91%), thromboembolic events (RR=1.10, 95% CI=0.74-1.65, P=0.63, I2=39%), increase in atrial fibrillation events (RR=0.73, 95% CI=0.52-1.05, P=0.24, I2=29%), and myocardial infarction (RR=1.10, 95% CI=0.80-1.51, P=0.57, I2=81%). However, PCC use was associated with reduced intensive care unit length of stay (MD=-0.81 days, 95% CI=-1.48- -0.13, P=0.02, I2=0%), bleeding (MD=-248.67 ml, 95% CI=-465.36- -31.97, P=0.02, I2=84%), and intra-aortic balloon pump/extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (RR=0.65, 95% CI=0.42-0.996, P=0.05, I2=0%) when compared with non-PCC treatment regimens. Conclusion: The use of PCC in cardiac surgery did not correlate with mortality, length of hospital stay, thoracic drainage, atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, and thromboembolic events. However, PCC significantly improved postoperative intensive care unit length of stay, bleeding, and intra-aortic balloon pump/ extracorporeal membrane oxygenation outcomes in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Evaluación preoperatoria de la hemostasia en cirugía mayor electiva / Preoperative evaluation of hemostasis in elective major surgery

Resumen: Introducción: Las pruebas de coagulación carecen de valor para determinar el riesgo de sangrado perioperatorio. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo, y transversal en 2,114 pacientes en la consulta de Anestesiología del Hospital Universitario «Dr. Celestino Hernández Robau¼, los resultados se evaluaron mediante estadística descriptiva. Resultados: El tiempo de coagulación y sangrado se realizó en 100% de los casos y el conteo de plaquetas en 93.99%, mientras que el tiempo de protrombina y tiempo de tromboplastina parcial activado se efectuó en 66.27 y 55.62% de los casos respectivamente. De 8.834 exámenes realizados se encontraron 49 alterados en 0.55%. Los pacientes con exámenes alterados fueron 33 en 1.56%, los enfermos en riesgo de sangrado por exámenes de coagulación fueron 30 en 1.42% y los pacientes en riesgo sin antecedentes de sangrados detectados por exámenes de coagulación fueron tres en 0.14%. Se reportó sangrado perioperatorio en 16 pacientes en 0.76%, siete pacientes con interrogatorio positivo y exámenes normales y nueve pacientes con interrogatorio negativo y exámenes normales. Conclusiones: La historia clínica y el examen físico del paciente son las mejores herramientas para predecir el riesgo de sangrado quirúrgico y los exámenes aislados de coagulación no constituyen un buen predictor del sangrado perioperatorio.

Abstract: Introduction: Coagulation tests are no value to determine the risk of perioperative bleeding. Material and methods: An observational descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in 2,114 patients in the anesthesiology consultation of the University Hospital «Dr. Celestino Hernández Robau¼. Results: The clotting and bleeding time was performed in 100% of cases, the platels count in 93.99%. While the prothrombin time and activated partial tromboplastin time were performed in 66.27 and 55.62% respectively. Of 8,834 tests carried out, 49 were found to be altered for 0.55%. Patients with altered tests were for 1.56%, patients at risk of bleeding from coagulation tests were 30 for 1.42% and patients at risk with no history of bleeding detected by coagulation tests were three for 0.14%. Perioperative bleeding was reported in 16 patients for 0.76%, seven patients with positive questioning and normal tests and nine patients with negative questioning and normal tests. Conclusions: The patient's medical history and physical examination are the best tools to predict the risk of surgical bleeding and isolated coagulation tests do not constitute a good predictor of perioperative bleeding.

Evaluation of Haemostatic Effects of Petroselinum crispum(Parsley) in Wistar Rats

Petroselinum crispum(parsley or garden parsley), besides its use as an edible vegetable, is used in the treatment of various ailments with documented evidence validating some of these medicinal uses. The present study evaluates the impact of oral administration of P. crispumon blood coagulation parameters. Fresh leaves of P. crispum were locally sourced, authenticated and extracted using ethanol to obtain an ethanolic extract of P. crispum (PCE). Twenty-five (25) male Wistar rats were used for the study and were randomly assigned to five (5) animals of five (5) rats each. Group I served as the control group and was given distilled water, whereas groups II, III, and IV were treated as experimental groups and administered PCE at 200, 400, and 800mg/kg via oral gavage, respectively. Group V also received 800mg/kg of PCE with the administration terminated on the 28thday to allow for a 14-day recovery period. Platelet count (PLT) and other platelet indices were determined using an automated Haematology analyzer. Bleeding time (BT), clotting time (CT), prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and plasma fibrinogen (FIB) were assayed following standard laboratory protocols. The results of the study show that the mean PLT were significantly reduced in the experimental animals compared to the control (p<0.05) while BT, CT, PT, aPTT and FIB significantly increased compared to the control (p<0.05). Also, BT, CT, PT, and aPTT recovered towards the control values after the 14-day withdrawal period. The present study shows ethanolic leaf extract of P. crispumprolonged blood coagulation. The current evidence suggests that P. crispumcould be a candidate for further exploration as a natural plant-based antithrombotic agent.

Efficacy and safety of percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion for nonvalvular atrial fibrillation / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the efficacy and safety of percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion in the treatment of nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.Methods:Eighty-eight patients with percutaneous left nonvalvular atrial fibrillation who received treatment in The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University from January 2019 to January 2021 were included in this study. These patients were divided into three groups according to different anticoagulant methods: group A (percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion), group B (livaraban), and group C (warfarin). The incidence of stroke, the incidence of bleeding events, the incidence of adverse cardiovascular events, and live and kidney function and coagulation function after 3 months of treatment were compared among the three groups.Results:There were no significant differences in the incidence of stroke and adverse cardiovascular events among the three groups ( P > 0.05). The incidence of bleeding events in groups A, B, and C was 9.3% (3/32), 15.0% (6/40), and 31.2% (5/16), respectively. There was a significant difference in the incidence of bleeding events among the three groups ( χ2 = 8.07, P = 0.001). After 3 months of treatment, there were no significant differences in prothrombin time, fibrinogen, prothrombin time-international normalized ratio, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, and creatinine clearance among the three groups (all P > 0.05). Conclusion:Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion, warfarin, and rivaroxaban can prevent stroke in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion is safer and more feasible than warfarin and rivaroxaban alone in the treatment of nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.

Value of bedside high-flow continuous blood purificationcombined with Xuebijing in the treatment of severe sepsis / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective:To investigate the effect of bedside high-flow continuous blood purification (CBP) combined with Xuebijing in the treatment of severe sepsis (SS) and the influence on the patient′s coagulation-fibrinolysis index, immunity index and expression of peripheral blood Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4).Methods:Ninety-three patients with SS who were admitted and treated in the Lianyungang First People′s Hospitalfrom January 2017 to October 2019 were selected. They were divided into the combined group (51 cases, treatment with bedside high-flow CBP and Xuebijing injection based on bundle therapy) and the control group (42 cases, treatment with Xuebijing injection based on bundle therapy). The changes in coagulation and fibrinolysis index, immunity index, biochemical index such as TLR4 before treatment and after 1 week of treatment were compared between the two groups. The incidences of complications in both groups were statistically analyzed, and the discharge time from ICU, mechanical ventilation time and 28-day mortality were recorded.Results:After 1 week of treatment, the levels of prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) in the two groups were shortened, D-dimer (D-D) and fibrinogen (FIB) were decreased ( P<0.05); and the levels of PT and APTT in the combined group were shorter than those in the control group, the levels of DD and FIB were lower than those in the control group, there were statistical differences ( P<0.05). After 1 week of treatment, the levels of CD 4+ and CD 4+/CD 8+ ratio in both groups were increased ( P<0.05), and the levels of CD 4+ and CD 4+/CD 8+ ratio in the combined group were higher than those in the control group ( P<0.05). After 1 week of treatment, the levels of TLR4, C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), white blood cell count (WBC), blood lactate (Lac), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Scr) in both groups were decreased ( P<0.05), meanwhile, the above indexes in the combined group were lower than those in the control group ( P<0.05). The incidence of multiple organ failure and the 28-day mortality rate in the combined group were lower than those in the control group: 3.92%(2/51) vs. 19.05%(8/42), 13.73%(7/51) vs. 30.95%(13/42), there were statistical differences ( P<0.05). The discharge time from ICU and mechanical ventilation time in the combined group were shorter than those in the control group: (12.35 ± 2.14) d vs. (14.17 ± 3.36) d, (7.12 ± 2.23) d vs. (8.51 ± 2.39) d, there were statistical differences ( P<0.05). Conclusions:Bedside high-flow CBP combined with Xuebijing injection in the treatment of SS can improve the patient′s condition, regulate the balance of coagulation and fibrinolysis, avoide the activation of coagulation, inhibite inflammatory response, reduce the expression of TLR4 in peripheral blood, improve immune function, protecte kidney function and promotethe patient′s recovery.

Influencing of high sodium donor liver transplantation from the death of a citizen′s organ donation on the prognosis of recipients / 中华消化外科杂志

Objective:To investigate the influencing of high sodium donor liver transplan-tation from the death of a citizen′s organ donation (DCD) on the prognosis of recipients.Methods:The retrospective cohort study was constructed. The clinicopathological data of 125 pairs of donors and recipients who underwent DCD liver transplantation in Xijing Hospital of Air Force Military Medical University from January 2015 to June 2021 were collected. Of the 125 donors, there were 93 males and 32 females. Of the 125 recipients, there were 92 males and 33 females, aged 48(41,55)years. According to the last time of serum sodium level of donor liver in the 125 recipients, 9 donor livers with serum sodium level ≥170 mmol/L were divided into group 1 (extremely high sodium), 33 donor livers with serum sodium level ≥150 mmol/L and <170 mmol/L were divided into group 2 (moderate high sodium), and 83 donor livers with serum sodium level <150 mmol/L were divided into group 3 (normal sodium), respectively. Observation indicators: (1) postoperative recover situations; (2) follow-up and survival analysis. Measurement data with normal distribution were represented as Mean± SD. Repeated measures were analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA. Measurement data with skewed distribution were represented as M( Q1, Q3), and comparison between groups was analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Count data were described as absolute numbers, and Pearson chi-square test or Fisher exact probability were used for data test. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to draw survival curves and Log-rank test was used for survival analysis. Results:(1) Postoperative recover situations. The changes of alanine transaminase (AlT), aspartate aminotransferases (AST), total bilirubin (TBil), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), prothrombin time (PT), international normalized ratio (INR), albumin (Alb) and creatinine (Cr) from the first day to the 14th day after operation were (736±972)IU/L to (75±46)IU/L, (1 290±1 651)IU/L to (38±20)IU/L, (102±98)μmol/L to (33±11)μmol/L, (66±34)IU/L to (104±54)IU/L, (19.9±3.3)seconds to (11.3±1.0)seconds, 1.76±0.31 to 1.00±0.08, (34±5)g/L to (38±3)g/L and (91±41)μmol/L to (76±19)μmol/L, respectively, in the recipients of group 1. The above indicators were (505±377)IU/L to (48±46)IU/L, (855±727)IU/L to (24±17)IU/L, (64±42)μmol/L to (32±22)μmol/L, (68±51)IU/L to (91±46)IU/L, (16.8±3.5)seconds to (11.9±1.2)seconds, 1.47±0.30 to 1.04±0.09, (33±4 g/L) to (40±5)g/L and (106±32)μmol/L to (97±27)μmol/L in the recipients of group 2 and (637±525)IU/L to (65±60)IU/L, (929±1 193)IU/L to (33±27)IU/L, (66±48)μmol/L to (33±36)μmol/L, (64±28)IU/L to (125±64)IU/L, (17.2±4.7)seconds to (13.3±12.8)seconds, 1.51±0.42 to 1.05±0.13, (35±6)g/L to (39±4)g/L, (105±44)μmol/L to (94±40)μmol/L in the recipients of groups. Results of overall effect showed there were significant differ-ences in the change trend of TBil (time effect, inter-group effect, interaction effect) in recipients among the three groups after liver transplantation ( Fgroup=5.42, Ftime=22.78, Finteraction=3.85, P<0.05). There were significant differences in the time effect of ALT, AST, ALP, PT, INR, Alb, Cr in recipients among the three groups after liver transplantation ( Ftime=50.17, 36.24, 19.24, 10.55, 59.61, 41.94, 10.82, P<0.05). (2) Follow-up and survival analysis. All recipients were followed up. Cases with early postoperative liver dysfunction, cases with donor liver failure 1 year after operation, cases with biliary complica-tions 1 year after operation, cases with vascular complications 1 year after operation, cases with rejection 1 year after operation were 2, 1, 0, 0, 0 in the recipients of group 1. The above indicators were 2, 1, 3, 0, 1 in the recipients of group 2 and 10, 8,20, 1, 6 in the recipients of group 3. There was no significant difference in the above indicators among the three groups ( χ2=1.58, 0.60, 5.19, 1.62, 0.97, P>0.05). The 1-year and 3-year cumulative survival rates of the donor liver were 100.00% and 100.00% in the recipients of group 1 after liver transplantation. The above indicators were 94.74% and 77.16% in the recipients of group 2 and 91.57% and 89.30% in the recipients of group 3. There was no significant difference in the cumulative survival rate of donor liver among the three groups ( χ2=2.69, P>0.05). The 1-year and 3-year cumulative survival rates were 100.00% and 100.00% in the recipients of group 1 after liver transplantation. The above indicators were 93.74% and 77.16% in the recipients of group 2 and 89.40% and 86.00% in the recipients of group 3. There was no significant difference in the cumulative survival rate among the three groups ( χ2=1.94, P>0.05). Conclusion:Donor livers with high serum sodium level can be used in the DCD liver transplantation.

Comparing modified Lee and White method against 20-minute whole blood clotting test as bedside coagulation screening test in snake envenomation victims

Abstract Background: Twenty-minute whole blood clotting test (20WBCT) and Modified Lee and White (MLW) method are the most routinely employed bedside tests for detecting coagulopathic snake envenomation. Our study compared the diagnostic utility of MLW and 20WBCT for snakebite victims at a tertiary care hospital in Central Kerala, South India. Methods: This single-center study recruited 267 patients admitted with snake bites. 20WBCT and MLW were performed simultaneously at admission along with the measurement of Prothrombin Time (PT). The diagnostic utility of 20WBCT and MLW was determined by comparing the sensitivity (Sn), specificity (Sp), positive and negative predictive values, likelihood ratios, and accuracy at admission with an INR value > 1.4. Results: Out of 267 patients, 20 (7.5%) patients had VICC. Amongst those who had venom-induced consumption coagulopathy (VICC), MLW was prolonged for 17 patients, (Sn 85% 95% confidence interval [CI]: 61.1-96.0) whereas 20WBCT was abnormal for 11 patients (Sn 55%, 95% CI: 32.04-76.17). MLW and 20WBCT were falsely positive for the same patient (Sp 99.6%, 95% CI: 97.4-99.9%). Conclusion: MLW is more sensitive than 20WBCT to detect coagulopathy at the bedside amongst snakebite victims. However, further studies are necessary for standardizing bedside coagulation tests in snakebite cases.

Correlation of anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibodies with unexplained recurrent miscarriages / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate whether anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibodies and its IgG or IgM subtypes were correlated with unexplained recurrent miscarriages.@*METHODS@#In our a single-center retrospective study, 283 patients with at least one unexplained miscarriage who visited the Third Hospital of Peking University between January 2021 and August 2023, aged between 18-40 years, and tested for anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibodies IgG or IgM subtypes, were included. The patients with either positive IgG or IgM anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibody were regarded as positive for anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibody. SPSS 26.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Chi-square test and Logistic regression analysis were used to study the correlation of anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibodies and its IgG or IgM subtypes with unexplained recurrent miscarriages. And the diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, the positive predictive value, the negative predictive value of anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibodies and its IgG or IgM subtypes in unexplained miscarriages was calculated with four-fold table.@*RESULTS@#Chi-square analysis showed that anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibodies and its IgM subtypes were correlated with recurrent miscarriages (both P < 0.05), while the IgG subtype was not correlated with recurrent miscarriages (P>0.05). After adjusting with anticardiolipin antibodies, anti-β2 glycoprotein antibodies, lupus anticoagulants, antinuclear antibodies, and age by Logistic regression analysis, anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibodies were correlated with unexplained recurrent miscarriages (OR=2.084, 95%CI 1.045-4.155, P < 0.05), and anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibody IgM subtypes were correlated with unexplained recurrent miscarriages (OR=2.368, 95%CI 1.187-4.722, P < 0.05).The sensitivity of anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibody in recurrent miscarriage was 65.43%, the specificity was 48.51%, the positive predictive value was 33.76%, and the negative predictive value was 77.78%. In the patients with recurrent miscarriages with negative classical antiphospholipid antibodies, the sensitivity of anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibody was 59.09%, the specificity was 63.23%, the positive predictive value was 40.63%, and the negative predictive value was 78.40%. The sensitivity of the anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibody IgM subtype for the diagnosis of recurrent miscarriage was 65.43%, the specificity was 50.99%, the positive predictive value was 34.87%, and the negative predictive value was 78.63%.@*CONCLUSION@#Anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibody and IgM subtype antibody are correlated with unexplained recurrent miscarriages in patients with at least one unexplained miscarriage. Whether positive anti-phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibody or IgM subtype could predict future unexplained recurrent miscarriages warrants a prospective study.

Effect of hepatic artery reconstruction techniques on prognosis of liver transplantation / 器官移植

Objective To evaluate the effect of different techniques of hepatic artery reconstruction on postoperative hepatic artery complications and clinical prognosis in liver transplantation. Methods Clinical data of 140 liver transplant recipients were retrospectively analyzed. All recipients were divided into the conventional hepatic artery reconstruction group (n=123) and special hepatic artery reconstruction group (n=17) according to hepatic artery reconstruction methods. Intraoperative and postoperative clinical indexes, the incidence of postoperative hepatic artery complications and survival rate were compared between two groups. Results The alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels at postoperative 1 d, total bilirubin (TB) at postoperative 7 d and prothrombin time international normalized ratio (PT-INR) at postoperative 30 d in special hepatic artery reconstruction group were higher than those in conventional hepatic artery reconstruction group, and the differences were statistically significant (all P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the operation time, anhepatic phase, intraoperative blood loss, intraoperative transfusion volume of red blood cells, cold or warm ischemia time, the length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, the length of hospital stay and postoperative blood flow of liver allograft between two groups (all P > 0.05). In the conventional hepatic artery reconstruction group, 5 recipients developed hepatic artery complications, whereas no hepatic artery complications occurred in the special hepatic artery reconstruction group, with no significant difference between two groups (P > 0.05). In the special hepatic artery reconstruction group, the 1-, 3- and 5-year cumulative survival rates were equally 82.4%, compared with 85.0%, 78.9% and 75.6% in the conventional hepatic artery reconstruction group, respectively. There was no significant difference between two groups (all P > 0.05). Conclusions When hepatic artery variations and (or) lesions are detected in donors and recipients, use of special hepatic artery reconstruction may effectively restore the hepatic arterial blood flow of liver allograft after liver transplantation, and will not affect the incidence of hepatic artery complications and survival rate of the recipients following liver transplantation.

Validation of the detection method for residual human coagulation factor Ⅺ in human prothrombin complex / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To establish an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method for the determination of residual human coagulation factor Ⅺ in human prothrombin complex and validate the method. 【Methods】 Human factor Ⅺ was reacted with the capture antibody coated on the microtiter plate. After appropriate washing steps, biotinylated primary antibody was bound to the captured protein. Excess primary antibody was washed away and bound antibody was reacted with horseradish peroxidase conjugated streptavidin. TMB substrate was used for color development at 450 nm. The dilution reliability, accuracy, specificity, repeatability, intermediate precision, linearity, range and durability were verified. 【Results】 The verification results showed that the accuracy and specificity of this method met the experimental requirements, with an average recovery rate of 109.2% and RSD of 6.93%. The repeatability RSD was 6.78%, and the intermediate precision RSD was 6.75%, indicating good precision. The linear regression correlation coefficient of standard curve was 0.999 9, showing good accuracy and precision within the linear range. The durability was verified by the incubation time and the validity period of reagent kit opening. The results showed that the RSD of the incubation time change was 6.62%, indicating that the incubation time of this detection method was controlled between 28 to 32 minutes, and there was no significant impact on the results. The RSD of the detection results before and after the reagent kit was opened and stored under conditions for 7 days was 3.84%, indicating that the preservation of the reagent kit according to the conditions for 7 days after opening has no effect on the FⅪ detection results. Both indicated that the method had good durability. The dilution reliability results showed that there was a "hook" effect in the detection of FⅪ residue in human prothrombin complex, which could be solved by diluting 100 to 200 times. 【Conclusion】 This method can be used for the determination of FⅪ residues of human prothrombin complex in laboratory.

Optimization of large-scale production process for human prothrombin complex concentrates / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To determine the optimal process conditions for efficiently extracting human prothrombin complex concentrates from human plasma. 【Methods】 Using human plasma as the materials and the yield of prothrombin complex concentrates as the evaluation standard, the preparation process parameters were studied and optimized through design of exporement(DOE), orthogonal experiments, and single factor experiments. 【Results】 The optimal process conditions were as follows: DEAE Sephadex A50 gel was selected, which balanced to pH 7.6, and then the amount of 1.7-2.5 g/L of plasma weight is added into the cryoprecipitate supernatant for adsorption for 40 minutes; Washing solution (0.15-0.175 mol/L sodium chloride) with 3 times the volume of gel was washed 3 times, and eluent (0.5-2.0 mol/L sodium chloride) was washed 3 to 5 times; Add stabilizer (heparin 35 IU, sodium chloride 0.1 mol/L) for ultrafiltration dialysis. 【Conclusion】 By using the optimized process mentioned above, the yield(measured by human coagulation factor IX)can reach 620 000 to 630 000 IU/ton of plasma, which is suitable for large-scale production.

Development and validation of a mobile application based on a machine learning model to aid in predicting dosage of vitamin K antagonists among Indian patients post mechanical heart valve replacement

Patients who undergo heart valve replacements with mechanical valves need to take Vitamin K Antagonists (VKA) drugs (Warfarin, Nicoumalone) which has got a very narrow therapeutic range and needs very close monitoring using PT-INR. Accessibility to physicians to titrate drugs doses is a major problem in low-middle income countries (LMIC) like India. Our work was aimed at predicting the maintenance dosage of these drugs, using the de-identified medical data collected from patients attending an INR Clinic in South India. We used artificial intelligence (AI) - machine learning to develop the algorithm. A Support Vector Machine (SVM) regression model was built to predict the maintenance dosage of warfarin, who have stable INR values between 2.0 and 4.0. We developed a simple user friendly android mobile application for patients to use the algorithm to predict the doses. The algorithm generated drug doses in 1100 patients were compared to cardiologist prescribed doses and found to have an excellent correlation.

A study of coagulation profile in preeclampsia compared to normal pregnancy

Background: Preeclampsia is a condition of unknown etiology of multiorgan disease and is distinguished by a raised blood pressure (B.P. >140/90 mmHg) and proteinuria (>300 mg per 24 h) and/or edema following 20 weeks of pregnancy. Aims and Objectives: The study was conducted to differentiate coagulation variables between normotensives and preeclamptic patients. Materials and Methods: Prior consent was obtained from Institutional Ethics Committee. Patients diagnosed with preeclampsia aged between 20 and 35 years were incorporated into the study. Patients with a previous history of hypertension, thyroid disease, and diabetes were excluded from the study. Age-matched controls were taken and analyzed. Data collection done by (i) BP measured in supine posture; (ii) bleeding time (B.T) estimation – by Duke’s method; (iii) clotting time (C.T) estimation – by Wright’s capillary tube method; (iv) platelet count (P.C) estimation – by automated hematology analyzer; and (v) prothrombin time (P.T) and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) – estimation by semi-automated analyzer. Results: The study revealed a significant interrelation between P.C and B.T when preeclampsia patients were correlated with normotensives patients while P.T, APTT, and C.T were insignificant statistically. Conclusion: A statistically significant change was observed proposing parameters derangement as the disease becomes more progressive.

Prevalence of thrombophilia-associated genetic risk factors in blood donors of a regional hospital in southern Brazil

ABSTRACT Introduction: Thromboembolic events occur due to an imbalance in the hemostasis and some factors associated with this condition can be inherited. In order to evaluate the frequency of genotypes considered to be common hereditary risk factors for thrombophilia associated with venous thrombosis (g.1691G>A and g.20210G>A) and hyperhomocysteinemia (g.677C>T and g.1298A>C), samples from voluntary healthy blood donors at the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre were tested. Methods: We examined 325 blood samples from blood donors collected from October 2017 to July 2018. Blood was collected on filter paper and the DNA was extracted for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) analysis using the qualitative real time polymerase chain reaction. Results: The calculated frequencies of each genetic variant in heterozygosity were 4% for the FV gene (g.1691G> A), 4% for the F2 gene (g.20210G> A) and 42% and 39% for methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), g.677C>T and g.1298A>C, respectively. Only the genetic variants of MTHFR were found in homozygosity, with frequencies of 14% and 6% (g.677C>T and g.1298A>C), respectively. Discussion: Altogether, these results describe the frequencies of genetic variants associated with venous thrombosis and hyperhomocysteinemia in the analyzed group and are important to enhance our current knowledge about the genetic profiles of Brazilian blood donors.

Prevalence and Clinical Aspects of Hemophiliain the Western Region of Cameroon

Introduction: Hemophilia is a constitutional defect in blood clotting related to a clotting factor deficiency. Its remains a major public health problem, mainly due to ignorance of the disease, limited screening capacities and access to treatment in sub-Saharan Africa and particularly in Cameroon. It causes heavy bleeding in the absence of adequate management. Few reports are available about the disease in countries with limited resources. This study assess the occurrence of hemophilia in the Western region of Cameroon and clinical aspects with the aim of raising public awareness of the disease. Methods: A cross-sectional and descriptive study was carried out over a period of 04 months in 5 departments of the Western region of Cameroon, in particular Mifi, Ndé, Bamboutos, Haut Nkam and Menoua. The individuals were selected in their houses on the basis of clinical arguments, i.e. bleeding from the gums, traumatic wounds, hematomas. The blood samples taken from the latter were analyzed in the hemostasis laboratory of the Regional Hospital of Bafoussam. The epidemiological characteristics of hemophiliacs identified and suspects hemophiliacs were analyzed. The results obtained were analysed using statistical software R version 4.1.1.Results: Out of 5995 people selected, 13 (0.22%) cases of hemophilia were identified, 09 confirmed cases and 04 new cases. The mean age of the patients was 14.85 years old (1.5-49). The disease was discovered mainly during circumcision in the months following birth (9/13, 69.23%), and by bleeding of the gums (9/13, 69.23%). Clinical signs were pain of the joints (46%), hematoma and swelling of the joints (38%). Platelets counts and prothrombin rate were normal in all. However, a prolonged Cephalin + Activator Time was found; it was corrected by supplying normal control plasma. Conclusion: Hemophilia is a pathology little known for the general public. For this, with the help of public authorithies, continuing education sessions must be set up to raise awareness among the population in order to limit the transmission of the disease and to eradicate this scourge which constitutes a real public health problem.

Estandarización del índice internacional normalizado en pacientes pre-quirúrgicos del Hospital San Juan de Dios de Cuenca / Standarization of the Internacional Normalized Index in pre-surgical patients at Hospital San Juan de Dios of Cuenca / Padronização do Índice Normalizado Internacional em pacientes pré-cirúrgicos do Hospital San Juan de Dios em Cuenca

El índice internacional normalizado (INR, por sus siglas en inglés), es un tipo de cálculo matemático que se basa en las pruebas de tiempo de protrombina. La seguridad y eficacia de la terapia dependen del efecto anticoagulante que reciban dentro del margen terapéutico fijado por el médico en base al estudio de sus tiempos de coagulación, específicamente expresado como el intervalo de INR. Establecer los rangos de referencia del INR aplicado en resultados obtenidos en pacientes del sexo masculino y femenino en edades entre los 18 hasta 60 años de edad en el Hospital San Juan de Dios de Cuenca, durante los meses de enero a junio del año 2021. Los datos fueron recopilados de 699 pacientes que acudieron a consulta externa del Hospital San Juan de Dios de Cuenca del área de hematología, que incluyen valores de tiempo de tromboplastina y su referente INR en base al ISI establecido en el reactivo emitido por el fabricante. Se establecieron los valores normales de INR los cuales varían en referencia al sexo del paciente. Para el sexo masculino valores con límite inferior 0,82 y límite superior 1,16; para el sexo femenino con límite inferior de 0,51 y el límite superior de 1,51. Los valores de INR tienen variaciones de acuerdo al sexo siendo los valores de hombres mas altos en relación al de las mujeres en el rango inferiores, Evidentemente los factores influyentes van en relación del sexo, edad, dieta y sobretodo la genética del paciente.

The International Normalized Ratio (INR) is a type of mathematical calculation based on prothrombin time testing. The safety and efficacy of therapy depend on the anticoagulant effect they receive within the therapeutic range set by the physician based on the study of their clotting times, specifically expressed as the INR range. To establish the reference ranges of the INR applied in results obtained in male and female patients between 18 and 60 years of age at the San Juan de Dios Hospital in Cuenca, during the months of January to June 2021. The data were collected from 699 patients who attended the outpatient clinic of the Hospital San Juan de Dios de Cuenca in the hematology area, including thromboplastin time values and their INR referent based on the ISI established in the reagent issued by the manufacturer. Normal INR values were established, which vary according to the patient's sex. For the male sex values with a lower limit of 0.82 and an upper limit of 1.16; for the female sex with a lower limit of 0.51 and an upper limit of 1.51. The INR values vary according to sex, with the values for men being higher in relation to those for women in the lower range. Evidently, the influencing factors are related to sex, age, diet and above all the patient's genetics.

A Relação Internacional Normalizada (INR) é um tipo de cálculo matemático baseado em testes de tempo de protrombina. A segurança e eficácia da terapia depende do efeito anticoagulante que recebem dentro da faixa terapêutica estabelecida pelo médico com base no estudo de seus tempos de coagulação, expressa especificamente como a faixa INR. Estabelecer as faixas de referência do INR aplicadas em resultados obtidos em pacientes do sexo masculino e feminino com idade entre 18 e 60 anos no Hospital San Juan de Dios em Cuenca, durante os meses de janeiro a junho de 2021. Os dados foram coletados de 699 pacientes que compareceram ao ambulatório do Hospital San Juan de Dios de Cuenca na área de hematologia, incluindo os valores de tempo de tromboplastina e sua referência INR baseada no ISI estabelecido no reagente emitido pelo fabricante. Foram estabelecidos valores normais de INR, que variam de acordo com o sexo do paciente. Para o sexo masculino, com um limite inferior de 0,82 e um limite superior de 1,16; para o sexo feminino, com um limite inferior de 0,51 e um limite superior de 1,51. Os valores de INR variam de acordo com o sexo, sendo os valores para os homens maiores em relação àqueles para as mulheres na faixa inferior. Evidentemente, os fatores de influência estão relacionados ao sexo, idade, dieta e, acima de tudo, à genética do paciente.

In vitroMeasurement of Anticoagulant Effect of Acacia Nilotica Aqueous Extract on Normal Human Plasma

Aims:To determine the anticoagulant effect of Acacia Nilotica aqueous extract on normal human plasma.Study Design:This is an experimental study.Place and Duration of the Study:Department of Haematology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory sciences, Alzaiem Alazhari, Khartoum –Sudan, during the period from July –August 2021. Methodology:A total of 20 human blood samples were collected for this study from apparently healthy subjects following ethical considerations. Samples were collected in tri-sodium citrate and platelets poor plasma (PPP) were immediately prepared by centrifugation. Aqueous solution of Acacia nilotica was prepared with distilled water (D.W), three concentrations of the solution (50%, 75% and 100%) were prepared. Prothrombin Time (PT) and Activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) were tested by manual method before and after adding different concentrations of Acacia Nilotica solution. Statistical tests were performed by using SPSS version 16. Results:The results of study showed that Acacia Nilotica significantly prolonged the PT and APTT results of human plasma (Pvalues for 50%, 75% and 100% solutions were 0.000, 0.000 and 0.000 while for APTT 0.036, 0.000 and 0.000 for PT respectively). Also the study showed no significant correlation between control and A. nilotica concentrations among coagulation profile, except a significant positive correlation between control and 75% Acacia nilotica on APPT.Conclusion:Acacia Nilotica solutions had anticoagulant effect in human plasma, and could be nominated as a potential preventive agent for thromboembolic diseases

Risk factors analysis and early warning evaluation model construction of disease severity in patients with dangerous upper gastrointestinal bleeding / 中华急诊医学杂志

Objective:To explore the influencing factors of severity of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) and to establish the early warning evaluation model in the form of line chart, so as to provide a feasible basis for emergency nurses' triage.Methods:A total of 680 UGIB patients admitted to the Emergency Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from January 2019 to January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. They were divided into a modeling group ( n=510) and a validation group ( n=170) by random number table method, and were divided into a high-risk group and a low-risk group according to the expert Consensus on Emergency Diagnosis and Treatment Procedures for Acute Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding in 2020. The differences of various indicators between groups were compared, the factors affecting the severity of the disease were analyzed by Logistic regression, and the nomogram was drawn and validated. Results:Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that hematemesis ( OR=3.875, 95% CI: 2.212-6.79), diabetes ( OR=2.64, 95% CI: 1.184-5.883), syncope ( OR=10.57, 95% CI: 3.675-30.403), heart rate ( OR=3.262, 95% CI: 1.753-6.068), red blood cell distribution width ( OR=3.904, 95% CI: 2.176-7.007), prothrombin time ( OR=3.665, 95% CI: 1.625-8.269), lactic acid ( OR=3.498, 95% CI: 1.926-6.354) and hemoglobin ( OR=4.984, 95% CI: 2.78-8.938) were the influencing factors of the severity of UGIB patients ( P < 0.05). The nomogram model showed good consistency and differentiation (C-index=0.903, 95% CI: 0.875-0.931), and was verified internally (C-index=0.895) and Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test ( P=0.7936). Externally verified C-index was 0.899 (95% CI: 0.846-0.952). The calibration curve prompt warning evaluation model had good stability and the prediction efficiency was better than the modified early warning score ( P < 0.05). Conclusions:The early warning evaluation model has a reliable predictive value, which can provide a reference for emergency medical staff to screen high-risk patients and formulate targeted nursing interventions.

Comparison of four-coagulation-tests values in normal pregnant women during early and late pregnancy and the influence of age / 中华妇产科杂志

Objective:To explore and compare the reference ranges of four coagulation tests in normal pregnant women during early and late pregnancy and the influence of age.Methods:Values of four coagulation tests from 4 974 pregnant women, who gave single birth at Peking University First Hospital, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, West China Second University Hospital, Peking University Third Hospital and Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University from February 2017 to July 2020, were measured and analyzed in this study, including prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen (Fib) and thrombin time (TT). The four normal reference ranges of coagulation during early and late pregnancy phases were expressed as P2.5- P97.5. The difference of two pregnancy phases was compared by non-parametric test of two related samples. And the difference between pregnant women of advanced and non-advanced age in the same pregnancy phase was compared by independent sample non-parametric test. Chi-square test was used to compare the incidence of pregnancy complications in different coagulation reference ranges. Results:The reference ranges of PT of normal pregnant women′s early and late pregnancy were 10.0-13.9 s and 9.6-12.3 s, the reference ranges of APTT were 22.6-35.3 s and 22.4-30.9 s, the reference ranges of Fib were 2.4-5.0 g/L and 3.0-5.7 g/L, the reference ranges of TT were 12.0-19.0 s and 11.5-18.4 s. Compared with early pregnancy, PT, APTT and TT shortened significantly, while the Fib significantly increased in late pregnancy (all P<0.001). PT, APTT and TT of advanced and non-advanced age pregnant women were significantly different (all P<0.01). Compared with the ranges of non-pregnant population, more pregnant women were included in the normal pregnant reference ranges of PT in early pregnancy and APTT in the early and late pregnancy, while the incidence of pregnancy complications had no significant differences (all P>0.05). The incidence of fetal distress was higher and the incidence of preterm birth was lower in the reference range of PT in late pregnancy. The incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus was higher in the early and late gestational Fib reference ranges, and the incidence of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy was higher in the late gestational Fib reference range (all P<0.05). Conclusions:The coagulation function of pregnant women increases significantly with the growth of pregnancy, and there is a significant difference between advanced significantly and non-advanced age pregnant women. The recommended ranges of normal pregnant women′s early and late pregnancy PT are 10.0-13.9 s and 9.6-12.3 s, the recommended ranges of APTT are 22.6-35.3 s and 22.4-30.9 s, the recommended ranges of TT are 12.0-19.0 s and 11.5-18.4 s. The appropriate ranges of normal pregnant women′s early and late pregnancy Fib still need further exploration.