Epidemic retinitis during the COVID-19 pandemic

Purpose: To study the impact of the novel coronavirus disease?2019 (COVID?19) pandemic on incidence, seasonal variation, clinical presentation, and disease outcome of epidemic retinitis (ER) and to compare clinical outcomes with positive and negative COVID?19 serology. Methods: This is a retrospective, observational study conducted at a tertiary eye care hospital from August 2020 to June 2022. A graph of ER cases against the month of presentation was compared with the graph of the COVID?19 pandemic in the same region. Cases presented before COVID?19 vaccination, with positive COVID?19 serology (Group 1) were compared with cases with negative serology (Group 2). Results: One hundred and thirty?two cases of ER were seen. The least number of cases were seen during and immediately after the peak of the pandemic (May 2021–August 2021). COVID?19 serology was positive in 13 (22 eyes)/60 (21.6%) unvaccinated cases. Along with COVID?19, positive serology for other ER etiologies was seen in 5/13 cases (38.4%). All patients received oral doxycycline with/without steroids. Groups 1 and 2 included 22 and 21 eyes of 13 cases each. Macular edema resolved in 43.6 and 32 days in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Retinitis resolved at 1 month in both groups. Corrected distant visual acuity was 20/50 and 20/70 at the presentation, which improved to 20/20 and 20/25 in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Mean and median follow?up was 6 months and 4.5 months, respectively, in both groups. No complications or recurrences were seen. Conclusion: No significant impact of the COVID?19 pandemic on ER was observed

25-Hydroxyvitamin D as a biomarker of vitamin D status in plaque psoriasis and other dermatological diseases: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Hypovitaminosis D is a public health problem associated with several chronic inflammatory and immunological diseases, including psoriasis. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in patients with plaque psoriasis. A comparison was made between vitamin D levels in patients with psoriasis and those with other non-inflammatory dermatoses without photosensitivity. In addition, it evaluated the effects of the patients' Fitzpatrick skin phototype and the season of the year on the serum levels of vitamin D. DESIGN AND SETTINGS: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at an outpatient clinic in a university center in Juiz de Fora (MG), Brazil. METHODS: A review of dermatology patients' demographic data, including skin phototype and serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], over 12 months in 2016. RESULTS: This study included 554 patients: 300 patients allocated to the plaque psoriasis group and 254 control patients with other dermatological diseases. Regarding the season of the year, 229, 132, 62, and 131 participants were evaluated in summer, autumn, winter, and spring, respectively. As for the skin phototype, 397, 139, and 18 patients had phototypes III, IV, and V, respectively. The serum levels of 25(OH)D were significantly lower in the psoriasis group (24.91 ± 7.16 ng/mL) than in the control group (30.37 ± 8.14 ng/mL). CONCLUSIONS: Hypovitaminosis D (< 30 ng/mL) was present in 76.66% of patients with psoriasis versus 53.94% of control patients. Vitamin D deficiency (< 20 ng/mL) was observed in 25% of the patients with psoriasis versus 8.66% in the control group (P < 0.001). The season and patient's skin phototype were independent predictors of serum vitamin D levels.

Seasonal Variation of Mycorrhizal Association (Root Colonization and Spore Density) in Selected Industrial Sites in Kota District of Rajasthan, India

This paper aims to assess the impact of seasonal variation on mycorrhizal association in selected industrial wastelands in the Kota district of Rajasthan. In the study mycorrhizal association was quantified in terms of percentage root colonization and spore density in three different seasons. The study was conducted during 2019-2021 and the data was collected for 3 seasons; summer (March-June), Rainy (July–October), and winter (November-February) to study the response to variable climatic factors to the root colonization and spore density of mycorrhiza. To determine the significance of variations in AMF spore density and percentage root colonization during different seasons, one-way ANOVA was performed. Results showed that in all the sites maximum mean spore density was observed in the summer (March-June) season but in the case of percentage root colonization, the value was found maximum in the humid season (July-October) in the control site whereas, in the three experimental sites, the maximum root colonization was observed in summer season (march-June). Hence, it may be concluded that hot climatic condition is favourable for mycorrhizal spore formation and root colonization was also favoured by hot climate.

Clinical presentation and fungal species distribution in otomycosis in a tertiary care hospital

Objective: Otomycosis is a common fungal ear infection in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. This study aimed to perform mycological analysis on fungal debris from the external auditory canals of the patients to study the most common clinical presentation and fungal species distribution in otomycosis. Materials and Methods: Patients who met the inclusion criteria for this cross-sectional study were included and evaluated after providing written informed consent. After obtaining a thorough medical history, ear swabs for culture, sensitivity, and potassium hydroxide were provided. Patients with positive culture results were studied between September 2019 and March 2021. Results: Among 103 cases observed for 18 months in the Department of ENT, Rajarajeswari Medical College, and Hospital, Bengaluru, India, we found that males (56.31%) were more affected than females (43.68%). Itching (67.96%) was the most primary and common symptom that was observed, followed by pain (20.38%), and the most common predisposing factor was the usage of earbuds (26.21%) followed by water in the ear (23.3%) and oil in the ear (16.50%). Unilateral infection was most common (96%), and the left ear was most affected (64.07%). Aspergillus niger was the most common fungal isolate (60.19%), and otomycosis was very common in postmonsoon (October–December) (58.25%). Conclusion: The most frequent fungal isolates in otomycosis are from the Aspergillus and Candida species. The left ear was typically affected by otomycosis, which frequently had a unilateral predominance. The most common clinical symptoms were itching and pain.

Evaluation of seasonal and monthly variation and location of deep vein thrombosis / Avaliação da variação sazonal e mensal e da localização da trombose venosa profunda

Abstract Background Deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities is associated with a significant burden of comorbidities. Objectives In this study, our objective was to investigate the presence of seasonal variation in deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and assess the location of the thrombus. Methods Out of 8177 patients admitted to two university hospitals and referred to outpatient clinics, we included a total of 611 consecutive patients (316 females, 295 males) diagnosed with acute deep vein thrombosis in this retrospective study. The mean age of the patients was 59.35±18.49 years, ranging from 1 to 96 years. Patients were categorized into four groups by age. Results DVT was found to be more frequent in the summer (n = 190 or 31%, p = 0.003) and specifically in August (n = 65 or 10.6%, p = 0.014), while it was least frequent in the spring (n = 128 or 20.9%) and in May (n = 40 or 6.5%). However, when comparing seasons, no significant differences were observed in terms of seasonal variation (p = 0.062) or monthly variation (p = 0.143). Conclusions Contrary to previous studies, this study demonstrated a higher occurrence of DVT during the summer, particularly in August. However, it did not reveal a clear seasonal pattern. One plausible explanation for these findings could be the adverse winter conditions and transportation challenges within the province, which may result in fewer DVT patients being able to reach hospitals for timely treatment.

Resumo Contexto A trombose venosa profunda (TVP) dos membros inferiores está associada a uma carga significativa de comorbidades. Objetivos Investigar a presença de variação sazonal na TVP e identificar a localização do trombo. Métodos Dos 8.177 pacientes internados em dois hospitais universitários e encaminhados para ambulatórios, incluímos um total de 611 pacientes consecutivos (316 mulheres, 295 homens) diagnosticados com TVP aguda neste estudo retrospectivo. A idade média dos pacientes foi de 59,35±18,49 anos, variando de 1 a 96 anos. Os pacientes foram categorizados em quatro grupos com base na idade. Resultados A TVP foi mais frequente no verão (n = 190 ou 31%, p = 0,003), especificamente em agosto (n = 65 ou 10,6%, p = 0,014), e menos frequente na primavera (n = 128 ou 20,9%) e em maio (n = 40 ou 6,5%). No entanto, ao comparar as estações, não foram observadas diferenças significativas em termos de variação sazonal (p = 0,062) e variação mensal (p = 0,143). Conclusões Ao contrário de estudos anteriores, este estudo demonstrou maior ocorrência de TVP no verão, principalmente em agosto. No entanto, não revelou um padrão sazonal claro. Explicações plausíveis para essas descobertas seriam as condições adversas do inverno e dificuldades de deslocamento, o que pode resultar em menos pacientes com TVP chegando aos hospitais para tratamento oportuno.

Indoor radon concentration and its changing trend in northeastern China / 中国辐射卫生

@#<b>Objective</b> To investigate the indoor radon concentration and its changing trend in northeastern China. <b>Methods</b> We measured indoor radon levels cumulatively for over three months by solid state nuclear track detection in a total of 261 houses in multi-story or high-rise buildings in Shenyang, Changchun, Harbin, Heihe, and Yichun in northeastern China. The measurement lasted one year in Changchun for seasonal changes. <b>Results</b> The average indoor radon concentration in the five cities was 88 Bq/m³, ranging from 12 to 558 Bq/m³. The indoor radon concentrations were ≤ 100 Bq/m³ in 75.1% of the houses, and ≤ 300 Bq/m³ in 97.7% of the houses. The indoor radon concentration increased with the age of buildings. The indoor radon concentration was highest in winter, and it was higher in summer than in autumn and spring. <b>Conclusion</b> The indoor radon concentration in northeastern China increased compared with the data of 1980s and 1990s. It is highest in the winter heating season, and higher in summer than in spring and autumn. Indoor radon exposure deserves attention.

A STUDY OF CLINICAL AND ETIOLOGICAL PATTERN AND SEASONAL VARIATION IN THE INCIDENCE OF ANTERIOR UVEITIS AT A TERTIARY CARE CENTER

Purpose: The aim was to study the various pattern and any seasonal variation in the incidence of anterior uveitis at a tertiary care center. An observational study was conducted on 100 patients of all Methods: new uveitis cases who attended the OPD between January 2020 to December 2021 of a tertiary care center, J.L.N. medical college and hospital, Ajmer, Rajasthan. We grouped the months into winter, autumn, monsoon, spring and summer according to Indian weather. Cases were screened along with detailed clinical and laboratory investigation to ?nd out there clinical etiological causes. 100 Patients of uveitis were examined. There was male predominance (66%) with male to female Result: ratio 1.94:1. We found cases with unilateral (91%) uveitis to be more common, with more Right eye (48%) involvement. Majority (40%) of cases remained idiopathic. HLA-B27 (37%) was commonest association followed by lens induced and Tuberculosis. The incidence of uveitis in winter season (38%) followed by 33% in transitional season and 29% in summer. Non- Conclusion: infectious uveitis were more common. In Non-infectious uveitis, most common entity found to be Idiopathic and HLA-B27 associated whereas in infectious uveitis, ocular tuberculosis was found to be the leading cause. Seasonally uveitis were more in winter and less in summer

¡El tamaño sí importa! Incidencia del tamaño del cebo en la captura de escarabajos coprófagos en el bosque seco tropical / Size does matter! Incidence of bait size on the capture of dung beetles in the tropical dry forest

Resumen Introducción: Tradicionalmente, los estudios de escarabajos coprófagos en los bosques secos tropicales (BST) del Caribe colombiano han aplicado metodologías diseñadas para zonas húmedas y andinas del país, lo cual podría estar incidiendo en el rendimiento y la eficiencia del muestreo. Objetivo: Con el fin de aportar a esta discusión, se analizó cómo la cantidad de cebo y el tiempo de operación de la trampa de caída inciden en la efectividad de captura de escarabajos coprófagos en un fragmento de BST en La Reserva Campesina la Flecha, San Jacinto, Colombia. Métodos: Para la captura de los escarabajos, se utilizó trampas de caída, cebadas con tres cantidades diferentes de atrayente: pequeño (34.6 g), mediano (53.8 g) y grande (114.9 g), las cuales permanecieron activas en campo durante 48 h. Cuatro muestreos fueron realizados entre marzo y septiembre de 2015, abarcando por igual la época seca y de lluvia. Resultados: Se registró un total de 4 563 individuos, agrupados en 10 géneros y 27 especies de escarabajos coprófagos. Los mayores valores de riqueza, abundancia y biomasa se presentaron en el cebo grande, a las 48 h, durante la época de lluvias. Sin embargo, el tiempo de operación de la trampa no tuvo efecto en la estimación de la riqueza, abundancia y biomasa de escarabajos independientemente de los tamaños de cebo. Los tres órdenes de la diversidad ( 0 D, 1 D y 2 D), presentaron valores similares entre las cantidades de cebo durante la época de lluvia, pero en la época seca, los cebos de mayor tamaño presentaron los valores de diversidad más altos. Por su parte con el cebo de mayor tamaño se capturó significativamente más riqueza, abundancia y biomasa de escarabajos de cuerpo pequeño y grande siendo esta situación más notaria durante la época seca. Conclusiones: Los resultados de este trabajo evidencian que para el estudio de los ensamblajes de escarabajos en el BST la utilización de un cebo de mayor tamaño contribuye a una mejor estimación de riqueza, abundancia, diversidad y biomasa, sobre todo durante la época seca, cuando las condiciones ambientales propician que los cebos pierdan su atractividad con mayor rapidez.

Abstract Introduction: Typically, research on dung beetles in the Tropical Dry Forests (TDF) of Colombian Caribbean region, have applied methodologies designed for wet or Andean areas of the country, which could be influencing the performance and efficiency of sampling. Objective: In order to contribute to this discussion, we analyzed how the bait amount and pitfall trap operating time influence the collection effectiveness of dung beetles in a TDF fragment at Reserva Campesina La Flecha, San Jacinto, Colombia. Methods: For the collection of beetles, we utilized pitfall traps baited with three different amounts of attractants: small (34.6 g), medium (53.8 g), and large (114.9 g), which remained active in the field for 48 h., 4 samplings between March and September 2015 were carried out, covering both, dry and rainy seasons. Results: A total of 4 563 individuals were recorded, grouped into 10 genera and 27 species of dung beetles. The highest values of richness, abundance and biomass were registered in the large bait, at 48 h, during the rainy season. However, the trap operating time had no effect on the estimation of beetles' richness, abundance, and biomass, regardless of bait sizes. The three diversity orders ( 0 D, 1 D y 2 D) showed similar values between the bait amounts during rainy season, but in the dry season, the largest baits displayed the highest diversity values. On the other hand, with the largest bait, significantly more richness, abundance, and biomass of small and large body beetles were registered, especially during the dry season. Conclusions: The results of this research show that, for the study of beetles' assemblages in the BST, the use of a larger bait contributes to a better estimate of richness, abundance, diversity and biomass, especially during the dry season, when environmental conditions promote a more rapidly loss of baits attractiveness.

The Distribution and Seasonal Variation of Zooplankton Species of the Great Kwa River, Calabar, Nigeria: A Reassessment Approach

Background: Human activities adversely affect the distribution and diversity of zooplankton. They are diverse group of organisms with little or no locomotive ability and quickly respond to changes in their environment. This research was aimed at providing updated information on the distribution and seasonal variation of zooplankton in Great Kwa River. Materials and Methods: Two sampling stations (S1- Obufa Esuk and S2- Esuk Atu) were mapped along the river bank, samples were collected using plankton net of 55祄 mesh size and preserved in 4% formalin. Species were identified using taxonomic keys. Data were analyzed using ecological indices. Results: The results revealed 12 taxa; belonging to 38 species. Tintinnida, Protozoa, Cladocera, Copepoda were 23.1%, 18.5%, 15.4% and 13.3% respectively. The lowest taxonomic groups were Diptera, Foraminitera, Atenatadata and Trichoptera having 1.85% for each order. The highest species was recorded in S2 having 31 species. In both Stations Ascampbelliella acuta was dominance over other species. Shannon-Weiner index (H) were 2.997 and 2.40 in S2 and S1 respectively. The evenness index were 0.576 and 0.547 for S1 and S2 respectively. Margalef,s diversity index were 8.171 and 4.111 for Esuk Atu-S2 and Obufa Esuk-S1 respectively. Zooplankton species were abundant in wet season than dry season. Conclusion: This present study provide updated information on the zooplankton distribution, diversity and seasonal variations of the Great Kwa River. The high dominance of Tintinnida in this study indicates a natural linkage between nano-planktons and macro-planktons in the food webs of the river.

Spectrum of bacterial keratitis in North India: A retrospective analysis of six years at a tertiary care eye center

Purpose: To analyze the pattern of bacterial pathogens causing infective keratitis and their resistance to the recommended antibiotics over six years. Methods: It was a retrospective study of 9,357 cases of bacterial keratitis from January 2015 to December 2020, at a tertiary care ophthalmic center. A total of 9,547 corneal specimens were obtained from the study subjects. Demographic details of the patients, pathogenic bacteria isolated, and their antimicrobial susceptibility were noted and analyzed. Results: Bacterial pathogens were identified in 23.52% of the specimens. The most common isolates were coagulase?negative Staphylococci (60.75%), followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (14.23%), Staphylococcus aureus (13.92%), gram negative bacilli of the family Enterobacterales (8.64%), Streptococcus spp. (1.72%), Acinetobacter spp. (0.13%), and other non?fermenting gram?negative bacilli (0.57%). In Staphylococci, 55–80% of isolates were resistant to erythromycin, and 40–70% to fluoroquinolones, while no resistance was observed against vancomycin. 40–60% of isolates of P. aeruginosa were resistant to cephalosporins, 40–55% to fluoroquinolones, and 30–60% to aminoglycosides. Also, 40–80% of isolates of Enterobacterales were resistant to cephalosporins, and 50–60% to fluoroquinolones. Most gram?negative isolates were susceptible to carbapenems and polymyxin B. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, our study is the largest compilation of microbiological profile of bacterial keratitis from North India. It highlights the current trend of the bacterial pathogens that cause infectious keratitis. Staphylococci and Pseudomonas were found to be the most common pathogens. Increased resistance was seen against some of the commonly prescribed empirical antibiotics. Such evidence is useful for restructuring the empirical prescription practices from time to time.

Characterization of Solid Waste Leachate and Its Impact on Surface Water Quality: A Case Study at Rajbandh, Khulna, Bangladesh

The present study was carried out to characterize leachate from waste dumping site and its impact on surrounding surface water quality at Rajbandh in Khulna. For this purpose, surface water samples (10) and leachate samples (5) were taken from the site during two season the monsoon season and post monsoon respectively. The samples were taken during the daytime from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m because at midday the temperature rises and the physico-chemical parameters of the water are modified. Some physico-chemical parameters such as pH, Electrical conductivity (EC), Total dissolved Solids (TDS), Dissolve Oxygen (DO), Chloride (Cl-), Magnesium (Mg2+), Calcium (Ca2+), Sodium (Na+), Potassium (K+), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Iron (Fe2+), Phosphate (PO43-), Sulfate (SO42-), Nitrate (NO32-) were analyzed in the laboratory in accordance with standard laboratory procedure. As well as some heavy metals such as Cadmium, Chromium, Lead, Manganese, Iron and Zinc were also analyzed in the laboratory. It is observed that, the physicochemical characteristics of surface water and leachate samples vary among the parameters in two seasons throughout the study period. The concentration of TDS and EC were found to be high in leachate compare to surface water samples that might be caused due to the existence of high-level various anions and soluble salts with other inorganic components. In monsoon the TDS values ranged from 3227 � 2357 for leachate and 737 � 498 for surface water samples whereas in post-monsoon the variation followed by 4640 � 1790 and 803 � 232 for surface water and leachate respectively. In case of EC for leachate it varied from 3630 � 1397 and 4900 � 1734 for monsoon and post-monsoon seasons correspondingly but varied from 1473 � 498 in monsoon and 1627 � 473 in post-monsoon for surface water samples. The high concentration of BOD (3.91 � 1.54 in monsoon and 6.25 � 3.27 in post- monsoon) and COD (117.80 � 58.31 in monsoon and 229.39 � 166.55 in post-monsoon) value were found in surface water samples compared to leachate samples. In case of Cr for leachate it varied from 0.081 � 0.029 and 0.070 � 0.026 for monsoon and post-monsoon seasons correspondingly. As well as the concentration of Cd (0.023� 0.006 in monsoon and 0.087�068 in post monsoon) and Pb (0.35�109 in monsoon and 0.025�013 in post monsoon) varied greatly during both season. The concentration of heavy metals such as Pb, Zn, Cr and Mn in surface water samples was also greater than 0.001mg/l. Further for leachate COD was very strongly correlated with TDS and cadmium. Magnesium was significantly correlated with potassium. For surface water sample TDS was significantly correlated with EC and pH. Chloride was significantly correlated with Cd and pb was correlated with calcium. This study recommended that the authority should take proper steps for the management of waste as well as give emphasis on the leachate collection.

SEASONAL VARIATION IN OXIDATIVE STRESS PARAMETERS IN KIDNEY OF DUTTAPHRYNUS MELANOSTICTUS

Duration of season may vary from one geographical area to other, which can influence physiology of inhabiting organisms. The purpose of this present study is to observe seasonal variation in oxidative stress parameters such as protein, lipid peroxidation (LPX), reduced glutathione (GSH), ascorbic acid (ASA) and total lipid content in kidney of adult Duttaphrynus melanostictus. Result of the present study showed that LPX, ASAand total lipid content were highest in rainy season and lowest in winter season. GSH content was highest in rainy season and lowest in summer season. Protein content was highest in winter and lowest in rainy season.

Associations of hyperglycemic emergency and severe hypoglycemia incidences with seasonality and ambient temperature among pregnant women with diabetes: a nested case-control study in Taiwan

BACKGROUND@#Associations of acute glycemic complications with season and ambient temperature have been reported in general population with diabetes. However, little is known about the risks of acute glycemic complications in relation to season and ambient temperature in pregnant women, who are likely to be even more vulnerable. This work aimed to investigate the associations of season and ambient temperature with pregnancies complicated with hyperglycemia emergency or severe hypoglycemia.@*METHODS@#Two separate case-control studies were nested within 150,153 pregnancies by women with type 1, type 2, or gestational diabetes between 2009 and 2014 in Taiwan. Hyperglycemia emergency (mainly diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state) and severe hypoglycemia occurred in 77 and 153 diabetic pregnancies (cases), respectively. Ten control pregnancies were randomly selected for each case by matching each case pregnancy on type of diabetes (i.e., T1DM, T2DM, or GDM), maternal age on the date of acute glycemic complication occurrence (i.e., index date), and "length of gestation at risk" (i.e., period between conception and index date). Meteorological parameters were retrieved from 542 meteorological monitoring stations across Taiwan during 2008-2014. Conditional logistic regression analysis with generalized estimation equation was separately performed to estimate the covariate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of each of the two acute glycemic complications in association with season and ambient temperature within 30 days prior to the index date.@*RESULTS@#Compared to summer, winter season was associated with a significantly elevated risk of severe hypoglycemia with an OR of 1.74 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08-2.79). The OR of hyperglycemic emergency was also elevated in winter season at OR of 1.88, but the significance is only marginal (95% CI 0.97-3.64, p = 0.0598). Subgroup analyses further noted that such seasonal variation was also observed in pregnancies with pre-pregnancy type 1 diabetes and gestational diabetes. On the other hand, ambient temperature was not significantly associated with the two acute glycemic complications.@*CONCLUSIONS@#A moderately but significantly elevated risk of severe hypoglycemia was found in pregnant women with diabetes during winter season, and such increased risk was more evident in pregnancies with T1DM.

Evaluation of non-endemic pemphigus foliaceus in a large series of patients: a single-center retrospective study from Turkey focuses on the relapses

Abstract Background: Pemphigus foliaceus is exceedingly rare around the world, except within the few regions where it occurs as an endemic variant. Various factors can trigger immune mechanisms that induce pemphigus foliaceus or worsen its course. Objective: To determine the demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients with pemphigus foliaceus in a large series from a non-endemic country, investigate the triggering factors, and seasonal patterns. Methods: The data of the patients diagnosed with pemphigus foliaceus in the study's center between 1989-2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Sixty-eight patients (mean age, 45.7 ± 14.5 years) were included in the study. The number of onsets reached its peak in spring-summer (p = 0.008). A total of 117 relapses occurred in 42 patients and were most common in spring-summer (not significant). Specific trigger factors were detected in 45 relapses. In the other 72 relapses, the peak was observed in spring-summer (p = 0.005). There were no significant differences in the demographic and clinical variables investigated between relapsed and non-relapsed patients. Study limitations: Retrospective design. Conclusions: Triggering factors could not be identified in more than half of the relapses in the study's series. The subgroup of relapses (without identified causes), as well as the onsets of the disease, showed a significant seasonal variation with a peak in spring-summer; however, the seasonal variable did not justify the total group of relapses. Although the seasonal variation may be caused by a combination of factors, UV radiation should be considered a trigger factor for the peaks in spring-summer, particularly in Turkey.

Evaluation of the influence of pre-analytical factors on total testosterone levels in healthy young men / Avaliação da influência de fatores pré-analíticos nas dosagens de testosterona total em homens jovens saudáveis

ABSTRACT Introduction: Testosterone is the main hormone that regulates male reproductive functions, directly participating in spermatogenesis and increasing sexual activity. The blood measurement of this hormone is essential for the diagnosis of neuroendocrine disorders, such as hypogonadism. However, there is lack of standardization regarding patient preparation for the hormone collection in clinical laboratories. Objective: Evaluate the effect of pre-analytical variables, including fasting, circadian and seasonal variation on testosterone levels in healthy young males. Material and methods: Forty-two volunteers were selected for the study, in the city of Barbacena, Minas Gerais. Four blood samples were collected from each of the participants, three in the winter: the first one in the morning after fasting; the second in the afternoon, without fasting; the third, in the next day morning, without fasting; and the last one taken in the summer, in the morning, after fasting. Results: The analyses showed that there was a significant decrease in total testosterone levels when there was no fasting for eight hours prior to collection and in the afternoon compared to the morning, both with p < 0.001. There was no significant difference in the results obtained in winter and summer. Conclusion: It is recommended that clinical laboratories standardize the collection of total testosterone by performing the test in the morning and after an eight-hour fast, in order to reduce variability and ensure reliability in the results.

RESUMEN Introducción: La testosterona es la principal hormona reguladora de funciones reproductoras masculinas, participando directamente en la espermatogénesis y en el aumento de la actividad sexual. La medición sanguínea de esa hormona es fundamental en el diagnóstico de trastornos neuroendocrinos, como el hipogonadismo. Sin embargo, hay poca estandarización en la preparación adecuada del paciente para la recolección de la hormona en laboratorios clínicos. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de variables preanalíticas, incluyendo ayuno, variación circadiana y estacional en las mediciones de testosterona en hombres jóvenes sanos. Material y métodos: Se eligieron 42 voluntarios para el estudio, en la ciudad de Barbacena, Minas Gerais. Se tomaron cuatro muestras de sangre de cada uno de los participantes, de las cuales tres en invierno: la primera, matutina, en ayunas; la segunda, vespertina, sin ayunas; la tercera, el dia siguiente, matutina, sin ayunas; el última se recolectó en verano, por la mañana, en ayunas. Resultados: Los análisis demostraron que hubo reducción significativa en los niveles de testosterona total cuando no se realizó el ayuno de ocho horas antes de la recolección y en el período vespertino en comparación al matutino, ambos con valor de p < 0,001. No hubo diferencia significativa en los resultados obtenidos en invierno y en verano. Conclusión: Se recomienda que los laboratórios clínicos estandarizen la recolección de testosterona total con la realización de la prueba en el período matutino y en ayuno de ocho horas, para reducir la variación y garantizar la confiabilidad de los resultados.

RESUMO Introdução: A testosterona é o principal hormônio regulador das funções reprodutivas masculinas, participando diretamente da espermatogênese e do aumento da atividade sexual. A dosagem sanguínea desse hormônio é fundamental no diagnóstico de distúrbios neuroendócrinos, como o hipogonadismo. Entretanto, há pouca padronização no preparo adequado do paciente para a coleta do hormônio em laboratórios clínicos. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito de variáveis pré-analíticas, incluindo realização de jejum, variação circadiana e sazonal nas dosagens de testosterona em jovens saudáveis do sexo masculino. Material e métodos: Foram selecionados 42 voluntários para o estudo, na cidade de Barbacena, Minas Gerais. Quatro amostras de sangue de cada um dos participantes foram coletadas, sendo três no inverno: a primeira de manhã, em jejum; a segunda à tarde, sem jejum; a terceira no dia seguinte, de manhã, sem jejum. A última foi coletada no verão, na parte da manhã, em jejum. Resultados: As análises demonstraram que houve diminuição significativa dos níveis de testosterona total quando não foi realizado jejum de 8 horas antes da coleta e no período da tarde em comparação ao período da manhã, ambos com valor de p < 0,001. Não houve diferença significativa nos resultados obtidos no inverno e no verão. Conclusão: Recomendamos que os laboratórios clínicos padronizem a coleta de testosterona total com a realização do exame no período da manhã e em jejum de 8 horas, a fim de reduzir a variabilidade e garantir a confiabilidade nos resultados.

Correlation analysis between vitamin A, D and E levels with the altitude, seasonal variation and other factors in children with 0-6 years old in Tibetan Plateau of Ganzi Prefecture / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Objective:To detect serum levels of vitamin A (Vit A), vitamin D(Vit D)25-hydroxy vitamin D[25-(OH)D] and vitamin E(Vit E) in children aged 0-6 years in Tibetan Plateau of Garzi Prefecture, thus providing references for physical examinations and prevention of 4 key diseases (rickets, malnutrition anemia, pneumonia and diarrhea) in children in plateau areas by relevant government departments.Methods:A total of 2 122 children who participated in physical examination in 12 townships of Xiangcheng County and 14 townships of Daocheng County, Garzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province from April 2017 to April 2019 with 0-6 years old were recruited for surveying physical measurements and collection of venous blood.Serum Vit A and Vit E levels were detected by high performance liquid chromatography.Serum levels of 25-(OH)D were detected by high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.The relationship between Vit A, Vit E and 25-(OH)D levels with the gender, age, seasonal change and altitude was analyzed.Results:The serum Vit A level, subclinical Vit A deficiency rate and marginal vitamin A deficiency rate were(1.05±0.27) μmol/L, 8.15%(173/2 122 cases) and 45.99%(976/2 122 cases), respectively in 2 122 children with 0-6 years old.There were significant differences in the serum Vit A level, the subclinical Vit A deficiency rate and the marginal vitamin A deficiency rate in children with different ages, seasons and altitudes (all P<0.05). The serum level of 25-(OH)D and 25-(OH)D deficiency rate insufficient rate were (24.65±6.45) ng/L, 6.03%(128/2 122 cases) and 16.59%(352/2 122 cases), respectively.There were significant differences in the serum level of 25-(OH)D, 25-(OH)D deficiency rate and 25-(OH)D insufficient rate in children with different ages and seasons (all P<0.05). The mean serum Vit E level, Vit E deficiency rate and Vit E insufficient rate were (7.81±1.74) mg/L, 2.78%(59/2 122 cases) and 29.59%(628/2 122 cases), respectively.There were significant differences in serum Vit E level, Vit E deficiency rate and Vit E insufficient rate in children with different ages and seasons (all P<0.05). The mean serum levels of Vit A and Vit D remained the lowest before the age of 1 year, and their deficiencies at this age were the most significant.The mean serum level of Vit E remained the lowest in >1-2 years old, and its deficiency and insufficient at this age were the most significant.Vit A, D and E levels were significantly affected by seasonal changes, which were significantly higher in the summer than in the spring, autumn and winter.In addition, Vit A and 25-(OH)D were significantly affected by the altitude, which were the lowest above 4 km altitude. Conclusions:The overall serum levels of Vit A, 25-(OH) D and E in children with 0-6 years old in Tibetan Plateau areas of Ganzi Prefecture are lower than those in plain areas.Vit A, 25-(OH) D and Vit E levels significantly differed in the age, season and altitude, which are related to the lack of local resources, insufficient maternal nutrition during pregnancy and insufficient intake after birth, as well as temperature and light caused by changes in local seasons and altitude.Therefore, it is necessary to make reasonable supplements during pregnancy to prevent vitamin deficiency.

Seasonal Variation in an Outpatient Antibiotic Prescription Rates in Alkharj

Aim:The aim of this study was to describe the seasonal variations in dispensing antibiotic prescriptions in the outpatient setting of a public hospital in Alkharj.Methodology: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted. The outpatient prescriptions in 2017 and 2018 were collected from medical records in a public hospital in Alkharj. The data include the number of prescribed antibiotics in general, the number of prescribed antibiotics in different months and seasons in the outpatient setting.Results: In the outpatient setting in 2017 and 2018, antibiotics were prescribed excessively in most of the months. About 27.84%of the prescriptions in 2017 were in spring season and about 26.64%of the prescriptions in 2018 were in autumn. Total number of antibiotics prescriptions in 2017 and 2018 were 5348 in spring followed by 5097 in autumn.Conclusion:The results of the present study showed the widespread use of antibiotics bypractitioners that was associated with season of prescribing. In general, there are excess use of antibiotics in all months. It is important to understand how the prescribing of antibiotic varies throughout the year to design an appropriate intervention to decrease incorrect antibiotic use

Influencia de las estaciones del año en la composición y la calidad sanitaria de leche bovina del Valle de Lerma, Salta / Seasonal influence on chemical composition and sanitary quality of bovine milk of the Lerma´s Valley, Argentina

Resumen Con el objetivo de conocer la influencia de las estaciones del año respecto de la composición y la calidad sanitaria de leche bovina de la cuenca del Valle de Lerma se llevó adelante el análisis de las muestras de leche remitidas por la industria al Laboratorio de Leche de la Universidad Nacional de Salta durante la primavera (Pr, n:104), el verano (Ve, n:131) y el invierno (In, n: 118) de los años 2017 y 2019. Se determinó el porcentaje de grasa (% G) y de proteína (% P), el punto de descenso crioscópico (DC) y el recuento de células somáticas/ml (RCS/ml). El análisis estadístico se realizó utilizando el programa InfoStat 2019p. El modelo respondió a un DCA. El % G y P fueron analizados mediante ANOVA. Mientras que para DC y RCS se utilizó ANOVA no paramétrico de Kruskal Wallis. La comparación entre medias fue a través del Test de Tukey (p<0,05). El % G resultó de acuerdo a los estándares establecidos por la legislación argentina en todas las estaciones del año, aunque el valor en el In fue inferior al de Ve (3,49 vs 3,64, p=0,0009). El % P resultó similar en las 3 estaciones, pero por debajo de los estándares nacionales (In: 3,24, Pr 3,26, Ve: 3,26). El DC (°C) si bien fue inferior al máximo adecuado difirió entre el In (-0,522) y la Pr (-0,519) y el Ve (-0,518) (p=0,0023). El RCS en el In y la Pr fue similar (264000 vs. 228000 cel/ml, respectivamente); mientras que en el Ve resultó superior (p=0,0012) mostrando valores promedio mayores (430000 cel/ml) al límite establecido por los estándares nacionales. Al comparar los resultados obtenidos con los estándares de composición química y sanitaria de referencia en Argentina se observa que, salvo los niveles de proteína y el RCS durante el verano, el resto de los parámetros se encuentran conforme a lo establecido en la legislación nacional.

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the seasonal influence in bovine milk composition and sanitary quality for Lerma Valley basin. Samples sent by dairy industries to National University of Salta Milk Laboratory during spring (Pr, n: 104), summer (Ve, n: 131) and winter (In, n: 118) of the years 2017 and 2019 were analyzed. Fat (% F) and protein (% P) percentages, freezing point (FP) and somatic cell count / ml (RCS / ml) were determined. Statistical analysis was performed using the InfoStat 2019p program. The model responded to a CRD. % F and % P were analyzed by ANOVA, while for FP and SCC non-parametric ANOVA from Kruskal Wallis was used. Tukey Test (p <0.05) was used for means comparasions. % F was according to Argentine legislation in all seasons of the year, although ln value was lower than that Su (3.49 vs. 3.64, p= 0.0009). % P was similar in the 3 stations, but below the national standards (Wi: 3.24, Sp: 3.26, Su: 3.26). FP (° C), differed between Wi (-0.522) and Sp (-0.519) and Su (-0.518) (p=0,0023), although values were below the upper range value. SCC (cel / ml) Wi In and Sp was similar (264000 vs. 228000 cel/ml, respectively), while in Su it was higher (p = 0.0012) showing higher average values (430,000 cel / ml) than the limit established by national standards. The results obtained in this study were accord with the chemical and sanitary composition of reference in Argentina, except for protein levels and SCC during the summer.

Fish biomarker responses to perturbation by drought in streams

Drought can be viewd as a perturbation in running waters and fish are often trapped in isolated pools, where deterioration of water quality may be stressful. We investigated how this extreme condition influences response of oxidative stress biomarkers. The response of the characid Astyanax elachylepis was assessed during the dry and rainy seasons in intermittent and perennial (control) sites in streams from Brazilian savannah (Cerrado). We predicted that the biomarkers would be enhanced in the dry season in intermittent streams only due the environmentally harsh conditions in the few isolated pools that remain filled with water. As predicted, fish from the intermittent stream in the dry season presented higher gill MDA values, indicating greater stress. In the liver, MDA values were higher in the dry season for both intermittent and perennial streams, suggesting a generalized seasonal response. As expected, some antioxidant response enzymes changed in the intermittent sites during the dry season. Therefore, oxidative stress biomarkers vary seasonally, with greater increase in intermittent sites. These evidences contribute for the understanding of the spatio-temporal variation of the fish responses and fish resistance to perturbations by drought in tropical environments.(AU)

A seca pode ser vista como uma perturbação em ambientes aquáticos lóticos e, em alguns casos, os peixes podem ser aprisionados em trechos lênticos (poços), onde a perda da qualidade da água pode causar estresse. Investigamos como esta condição extrema influencia biomarcadores bioquímicos de estresse oxidativo. Para isso, a resposta do caracídeo Astyanax elachylepis foi avaliada durante as estações seca e chuvosa em trechos intermitentes e perenes (controle) de riachos da savana brasileira (Cerrado). Predizemos que os biomarcadores seriam aumentados somente em peixes dos trechos intermitentes durante a estação seca, devido as condições restritivas dos poucos poços isolados que contém água. Como predito, os peixes do riacho intermitente apresentaram altos valores de MDA nas brânquias durante a estação seca, indicando maior estresse oxidativo. No fígado, os valores de MDA foram maiores na estação seca em ambos riachos, intermitente e perene, sugerindo uma resposta sazonal generalizada. Como esperado, algumas enzimas antioxidantes foram alteradas em peixes de trechos intermitentes durante a estação seca. Portanto, os biomarcadores de estresse oxidativo variam sazonalmente e essa variação é maior em trechos intermitentes. Essas evidências contribuem para a compreensão da variação espaço-temporal da resposta dos peixes e da sua resistência às perturbações por seca em ambientes tropicais.(AU)

Hospitalization Due to Asthma Exacerbation: A China Asthma Research Network (CARN) Retrospective Study in 29 Provinces Across Mainland China

PURPOSE: Details of patients hospitalized for asthma exacerbation in mainland China are lacking. To improve disease control and reduce economic burden, a large sample survey among this patient population is indispensable. This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of such patients.METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on patients hospitalized for asthma exacerbation in 29 hospitals of 29 regions in mainland China during the period 2013 to 2014. Demographic features, pre-admission conditions, exacerbation details, and outcomes were summarized. Risk factors for exacerbation severity were analyzed.RESULTS: There were 3,240 asthmatic patients included in this study (57.7% females, 42.3% males). Only 28.0% used daily controller medications; 1,287 (39.7%) patients were not currently on inhaled corticosteroids. Acute upper airway infection was the most common trigger of exacerbation (42.3%). Patients with severe to life-threatening exacerbation tended to have a longer disease course, a smoking history, and had comorbidities such as hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and food allergy. The multivariate analysis showed that smoking history, comorbidities of hypertension, COPD, and food allergy were independent risk factors for more severe exacerbation. The number of patients hospitalized for asthma exacerbation varied with seasons, peaking in March and September. Eight patients died during the study period (mortality 0.25%).CONCLUSIONS: Despite enhanced education on asthma self-management in China during recent years, few patients were using daily controller medications before the onset of their exacerbation, indicating that more educational efforts and considerations are needed. The findings of this study may improve our understanding of hospital admission for asthma exacerbation in mainland China and provide evidence for decision-making.