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The Chinese guideline for management of snakebites Rongde Lai, Shijiao Yan, Shijun Wang, Shuqing Yang, Zhangren Yan, Pin Lan, Yonggao Wang, Qi Li, Jinlong Wang, Wei Wang, Yuefeng Ma, Zijing Liang, Jianfeng Zhang, Ning Zhou, Xiaotong Han, Xinchao Zhang, Mao Zhang, Xiaodong Zhao, Guoqiang Zhang, Huadong Zhu, Xuezhong Yu, Chuanzhu Lyu World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (5): 333-355.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.076 Abstract （945）   HTML （39）    PDF（pc） （370KB）（707）       Knowledge map    Save In 2009, the World Health Organization included snakebite on the list of neglected tropical diseases, acknowledging it as a common occupational hazard for farmers, plantation workers, and others, causing tens of thousands of deaths and chronic physical disabilities every year. This guideline aims to provide practical information to help clinical professionals evaluate and treat snakebite victims. These recommendations are based on clinical experience and clinical research evidence. This guideline focuses on the following topics: snake venom, clinical manifestations, auxiliary examination, diagnosis, treatments, and prevention. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Approach to traumatic cardiac arrest in the emergency department: a narrative literature review for emergency providers Rashed Alremeithi, Quincy K. Tran, Megan T. Quintana, Soroush Shahamatdar, Ali Pourmand World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (1): 3-9.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2023.085 Abstract （441）   HTML （488）    PDF（pc） （220KB）（1092）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: Traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) is a major contributor to mortality and morbidity in all age groups and poses a significant burden on the healthcare system. Although there have been advances in treatment modalities, survival rates for TCA patients remain low. This narrative literature review critically examines the indications and effectiveness of current therapeutic approaches in treating TCA. METHODS: We performed a literature search in the PubMed and Scopus databases for studies published before December 31, 2022. The search was refined by combining search terms, examining relevant study references, and restricting publications to the English language. Following the search, 943 articles were retrieved, and two independent reviewers conducted a screening process. RESULTS: A review of various studies on pre- and intra-arrest prognostic factors showed that survival rates were higher when patients had an initial shockable rhythm. There were conflicting results regarding other prognostic factors, such as witnessed arrest, bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and the use of prehospital or in-hospital epinephrine. Emergency thoracotomy was found to result in more favorable outcomes in cases of penetrating trauma than in those with blunt trauma. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) provides an advantage to emergency thoracotomy in terms of occupational safety for the operator as an alternative in managing hemorrhagic shock. When implemented in the setting of aortic occlusion, emergency thoracotomy and REBOA resulted in comparable mortality rates. Veno-venous extracorporeal life support (V-V ECLS) and veno-arterial extracorporeal life support (V-A ECLS) are viable options for treating respiratory failure and cardiogenic shock, respectively. In the context of traumatic injuries, V-V ECLS has been associated with higher rates of survival to discharge than V-A ECLS. CONCLUSION: TCA remains a significant challenge for emergency medical services due to its high morbidity and mortality rates. Pre- and intra-arrest prognostic factors can help identify patients who are likely to benefit from aggressive and resource-intensive resuscitation measures. Further research is needed to enhance guidelines for the clinical use of established and emerging therapeutic approaches that can help optimize treatment efficacy and ameliorate survival outcomes. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Emergency department management of acute agitation in the reproductive age female and pregnancy Ariella Gartenberg, Kayla Levine, Alexander Petrie World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (2): 83-90.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.011 Abstract （370）   HTML （82）    PDF（pc） （402KB）（813）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: Agitation is a common presentation within emergent departments (EDs). Agitation during pregnancy should be treated as an obstetric emergency, as the distress may jeopardize both the patient and fetus. The safety of psychotropic medications in the reproductive age female has not been well established. This review aimed to explore a summary of general agitation recommendations with an emphasis on ED management of agitation during pregnancy. METHODS: A literature review was conducted to explore the pathophysiology of acute agitation and devise a preferred treatment plan for ED management of acute agitation in the reproductive age or pregnant female. RESULTS: While nonpharmacological management is preferred, ED visits for agitation often require medical management. Medication should be selected based on the etiology of agitation and the clinical setting to avoid major adverse effects. Adverse effects are common in pregnant females. For mild to moderate agitation in pregnancy, diphenhydramine is an effective sedating agent with minimal adverse effects. In moderate to severe agitation, high-potency typical psychotropics are preferred due to their neutral effects on hemodynamics. Haloperidol has become the most frequently utilized psychotropic for agitation during pregnancy. Second generation psychotropics are often utilized as second-line therapy, including risperidone. Benzodiazepines and ketamine have demonstrated adverse fetal outcomes. CONCLUSION: While randomized control studies cannot be ethically conducted on pregnant patients requiring sedation, animal models and epidemiologic studies have demonstrated the effects of psychotropic medication exposure in utero. As the fetal risk associated with multiple doses of psychotropic medications remains unknown, weighing the risks and benefits of each agent, while utilizing the lowest effective dose remains critical in the treatment of acute agitation within the EDs. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Trends in oxycodone and oxycodone-containing analgesics administration for back pain in emergency departments in the USA (2007-2018) Jonathan Chabon, Jemer Garrido, Deanna Schreiber-Gregory, Jefferson Drapkin, Sergey Motov World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (3): 169-174.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.002 Abstract （272）   HTML （2766）    PDF（pc） （260KB）（578）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: To describe trends in oxycodone and oxycodone-containing analgesic prescribing for the treatment of back pain among adults in emergency departments (EDs) in the USA from 2007 to 2018. METHODS: Data were gathered from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS) from 2007 to 2018. The study population included individuals of all ages presenting to USA EDs. The NHAMCS reasons for visit and oxycodone drug ID codes were used to isolate patients with back pain. The main outcome was the proportion of oxycodone and oxycodone-containing analgesics prescribed for back pain in the EDs over the specified time period. RESULTS: There was a relative decrease in the overall administration of oxycodone for back pain in the EDs by 62.3% from 2007 (244,000 visits) to 2018 (92,000 visits). The proportion of ED patients prescribed with oxycodone-containing analgesics for back pain increased among patients aged 45 years and older (from 43.8% to 57.6%), female patients (from 54.5% to 62.0%), black patients (from 22.5% to 30.4%), and Hispanic/Latino patients (from 9.4% to 19.6%). Oxycodone/acetaminophen was most prescribed and accounted for 90.2% of all oxycodone-containing analgesics in 2007, with a decrease to 68.5% in 2018. Pure oxycodone was the second most prescribed medication, accounting for 6.1% in 2007 and 31.5% in 2018. CONCLUSION: The overall number of oxycodone-containing analgesics decreased significantly from 2007 to 2018. However, that number trended upward in 45-year-old and older, female, black, or Hispanic/Latino patients from 2007 to 2018. The total amount of pure oxycodone increased significantly from 2007 to 2008. Table and Figures | Reference | Supplementary Material | Related Articles | Metrics

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Recurrent malignant hyperthermia after scoliosis correction surgery Junfeng Su, Man Huang World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (1): 70-72.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.006 Abstract （257）   HTML （21）    PDF（pc） （181KB）（530）       Knowledge map    Save Table and Figures | Reference | Supplementary Material | Related Articles | Metrics

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Serum procalcitonin levels are associated with rhabdomyolysis following exertional heatstroke: an over 10-year intensive care survey Li Zhong, Feifei Shuai, Conglin Wang, Lipeng Han, Zhifeng Liu, Ming Wu World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (1): 23-27.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.02.009 Abstract （236）   HTML （18）    PDF（pc） （239KB）（521）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: Heatstroke has become a common emergency event in hospitals. Procalcitonin (PCT) is used as a biomarker of infection in the emergency department (ED), but its role in rhabdomyolysis (RM) following exertional heatstroke (EHS) remains unclear. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study enrolled patients with EHS from the intensive care unit (ICU). We collected RM biomarkers, inflammation markers, critical disease scores at admission, 24 h, 48 h, and discharge, and 90-day mortality. Correlation analysis, linear regression and curve fitting were used to identify the relationship between PCT and RM. RESULTS: A total of 162 patients were recruited and divided into RM (n=56) and non-RM (n=106) groups. PCT was positively correlated with myoglobin (Mb), acute hepatic injury, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) score, with correlation coefficients of 0.214, 0.237, 0.285, 0.454, and 0.368, respectively (all P<0.05). Interestingly, the results of curve fitting revealed a nonlinear relationship between PCT and RM, and a two-piecewise linear regression model showed that PCT was related to RM with an odds ratio of 1.3 and a cut-off of <4.6 ng/mL. Survival analysis revealed that RM was associated with higher mortality compared to non-RM cases (P=0.0093). CONCLUSION: High serum PCT concentrations are associated with RM after EHS in critically ill patients. Elevated PCT concentrations should be interpreted cautiously in patients with EHS in the ED. Table and Figures | Reference | Supplementary Material | Related Articles | Metrics

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Application of multidisciplinary in situ simulation training in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke: a quality improvement project Ganying Huang, Huijie Yang, Huan Yao, Xinxin Fan, Wenqin Xia, Yuansheng Xu, Xiaoling Shen, Xue Zhao World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (1): 41-46.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2023.084 Abstract （232）   HTML （13）    PDF（pc） （178KB）（487）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: Ischemic stroke refers to a disorder in the blood supply to a local area of brain tissue for various reasons and is characterized by high morbidity, mortality, and disability. Early reperfusion of brain tissue at risk of injury is crucial for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. The purpose of this study was to evaluate comfort levels in managing acute stroke patients with hypoxemia who required endotracheal intubation after multidisciplinary in situ simulation training and to shorten the door-to-image time. METHODS: This quality improvement project utilized a comprehensive multidisciplinary in situ simulation exercise. A total of 53 participants completed the two-day in situ simulation training. The main outcome was the self-reported comfort levels of participants in managing acute stroke patients with hypoxemia requiring endotracheal intubation before and after simulation training. A 5-point Likert scale was used to measure participant comfort. A paired-sample t-test was used to compare the mean self-reported comfort scores of participants, as well as the endotracheal intubation time and door-to-image time on the first and second days of in situ simulation training. The door-to-image time before and after the training was also recorded. RESULTS: The findings indicated that in situ simulation training could enhance participant comfort when managing acute stroke patients with hypoxemia who required endotracheal intubation and shorten door-to-image time. For the emergency management of hypoxemia or tracheal intubation, the mean post-training self-reported comfort score was significantly higher than the mean pre-training comfort score (hypoxemia: 4.53±0.64 vs. 3.62±0.69, t= -11.046, P<0.001; tracheal intubation: 3.98±0.72 vs. 3.43±0.72, t= -6.940, P<0.001). We also observed a decrease in the tracheal intubation and door-to-image time and a decreasing trend in the door-to-image time, which continued after the training. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates that the implementation of in situ simulation training in a clinical environment with a multidisciplinary approach may improve the ability and confidence of stroke team members, optimize the first-aid process, and effectively shorten the door-to-image time of stroke patients with emergency complications. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Duplicated gallbladder with acute cholecystitis: a case of unusual presentation and diagnostic challenges Eren Ogut, Fatos Belgin Yildirim, Osman Memis World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (2): 156-158.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.021 Abstract （230）   HTML （19）    PDF（pc） （1283KB）（376）       Knowledge map    Save Table and Figures | Reference | Supplementary Material | Related Articles | Metrics

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Data driven analysis reveals prognostic genes and immunological targets in human sepsis-associated acute kidney injury Qing Zhao, Jinfu Ma, Jianguo Xiao, Zhe Feng, Hui Liu World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (2): 91-97.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.026 Abstract （230）   HTML （24）    PDF（pc） （633KB）（830）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: The molecular mechanism of sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (SA-AKI) is unclear. We analyzed co-differentially expressed genes (co-DEGs) to elucidate the underlying mechanism and intervention targets of SA-AKI. METHODS: The microarray datasets GSE65682, GSE30718, and GSE174220 were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. We identified the co-DEGs and constructed a gene co-expression network to screen the hub genes. We analyzed immune correlations and disease correlations and performed functional annotation of the hub genes. We also performed single-cell and microenvironment analyses and investigated the enrichment pathways and the main transcription factors. Finally, we conducted a correlation analysis to evaluate the role of the hub genes. RESULTS: Interleukin 32 (IL32) was identified as the hub gene in SA-AKI, and the main enriched signaling pathways were associated with hemopoiesis, cellular response to cytokine stimulus, inflammatory response, and regulation of kidney development. Additionally, IL32 was significantly associated with mortality in SA-AKI patients. Monocytes, macrophages, T cells, and NK cells were closely related to IL32 and were involved in the immune microenvironment in SA-AKI patients. IL32 expression increased significantly in the kidney of septic mouse. Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) was significantly and negatively correlated with IL32. CONCLUSION: IL32 is the key gene involved in SA-AKI and is significantly associated with prognosis. TLR2 and relevant immune cells are closely related to key genes. Table and Figures | Reference | Supplementary Material | Related Articles | Metrics

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The diagnostic yield for computed tomography pulmonary angiography in patients with anticoagulation Payush Chatta, Brian Diep, Jakrin Kewcharoen, Daniel Rossie, Cory Toomasian, Purvi Parwani, Dmitry Abramov World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (4): 251-255.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.042 Abstract （229）   HTML （24）    PDF（pc） （400KB）（504）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: Patients who present to the emergency department (ED) for suspected pulmonary embolism (PE) are often on active oral anticoagulation (AC). However, the diagnostic yield of computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) in screening for PE in patients who present on AC has not been well characterized. We aim to investigate the diagnostic yield of CTPA in diagnosing PE depending on AC status. METHODS: We reviewed and analyzed the electronic medical records of patients who underwent CTPA for PE at a university hospital ED from June 1, 2019, to March 25, 2022. Primary outcome was the incidence of PE on CTPA depending on baseline AC status and indication for AC. RESULTS: Of 2,846 patients, 242 were on AC for a history of venous thromboembolism (VTE), 210 were on AC for other indications, and 2,394 were not on AC. The incidence of PE on CTPA was significantly lower in patients on AC for other indications (5.7%) when compared to patients on AC for prior VTE (24.3%) and patients not on AC at presentation (9.8%) (P<0.001). In multivariable analysis among the whole cohort, AC was associated with a positive CTPA (odds ratio [OR] 0.26, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.15-0.45, P<0.001). CONCLUSION: The incidence of PE among patients undergoing CTPA in the ED is lower in patients previously on AC for indications other than VTE when compared to those not on AC or those on AC for history of VTE. AC status and indication for AC may affect pre-test probability of a positive CTPA, and AC status therefore warrants consideration as part of future diagnostic algorithms among patients with suspected PE. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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A novel predictor of unsustained return of spontaneous circulation in cardiac arrest patients through a combination of capnography and pulse oximetry: a multicenter observational study Jing Yang, Hanqi Tang, Shihuan Shao, Feng Xu, Yangyang Fu, Shengyong Xu, Chen Li, Yan Li, Yang Liu, Joseph Harold Walline, Huadong Zhu, Yuguo Chen, Xuezhong Yu, Jun Xu World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (1): 16-22.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2023.186 Abstract （218）   HTML （376）    PDF（pc） （235KB）（620）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: Unsustained return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) is a critical barrier to survival in cardiac arrest patients. This study examined whether end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) and pulse oximetry photoplethysmogram (POP) parameters can be used to identify unsustained ROSC. METHODS: We conducted a multicenter observational prospective cohort study of consecutive patients with cardiac arrest from 2013 to 2014. Patients’ general information, ETCO2, and POP parameters were collected and statistically analyzed. RESULTS: The included 105 ROSC episodes (from 80 cardiac arrest patients) comprised 51 sustained ROSC episodes and 54 unsustained ROSC episodes. The 24-hour survival rate was significantly higher in the sustained ROSC group than in the unsustained ROSC group (29.2% vs. 9.4%, P<0.05). The logistic regression analysis showed that the difference between after and before ROSC in ETCO2 (ΔETCO2) and the difference between after and before ROCS in area under the curve of POP (ΔAUCp) were independently associated with sustained ROSC (odds ratio [OR]=0.931, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.881-0.984, P=0.011 and OR=0.998, 95% CI 0.997-0.999, P<0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of ΔETCO2, ΔAUCp, and the combination of both to predict unsustained ROSC were 0.752 (95% CI 0.660-0.844), 0.883 (95% CI 0.818-0.948), and 0.902 (95% CI 0.842-0.962), respectively. CONCLUSION: Patients with unsustained ROSC have a poor prognosis. The combination of ΔETCO2 and ΔAUCp showed significant predictive value for unsustained ROSC. Table and Figures | Reference | Supplementary Material | Related Articles | Metrics

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Prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia with inhaled antibiotics Stephan Ehrmann, Jie Li World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (3): 165-168.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.051 Abstract （214）   HTML （2770）    PDF（pc） （136KB）（476）       Knowledge map    Save Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Efficacy of partial and complete resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta in the hemorrhagic shock model of liver injury Yi Shan, Yang Zhao, Chengcheng Li, Jianxin Gao, Guogeng Song, Tanshi Li World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (1): 10-15.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.001 Abstract （213）   HTML （384）    PDF（pc） （311KB）（526）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) can temporarily control traumatic bleeding. However, its prolonged use potentially leads to ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Partial REBOA (pREBOA) can alleviate ischemic burden; however, its security and effectiveness prior to operative hemorrhage control remains unknown. Hence, we aimed to estimate the efficacy of pREBOA in a swine model of liver injury using an experimental sliding-chamber ballistic gun. METHODS: Twenty Landrace pigs were randomized into control (no aortic occlusion) (n=5), intervention with complete REBOA (cREBOA) (n=5), continuous pREBOA (C-pREBOA) (n=5), and sequential pREBOA (S-pREBOA) (n=5) groups. In the cREBOA and C-pREBOA groups, the balloon was inflated for 60 min. The hemodynamic and laboratory values were compared at various observation time points. Tissue samples immediately after animal euthanasia from the myocardium, liver, kidneys, and duodenum were collected for histological assessment using hematoxylin and eosin staining. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, the survival rate of the REBOA groups was prominently improved (all P<0.05). The total volume of blood loss was markedly lower in the cREBOA group (493.14±127.31 mL) compared with other groups (P<0.01). The pH was significantly lower at 180 min in the cREBOA and S-pREBOA groups (P<0.05). At 120 min, the S-pREBOA group showed higher alanine aminotransferase (P<0.05) but lower blood urea nitrogen compared with the cREBOA group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: In this trauma model with liver injury, a 60-minute pREBOA resulted in improved survival rate and was effective in maintaining reliable aortic pressure, despite persistent hemorrhage. Extended tolerance time for aortic occlusion in Zone I for non-compressible torso hemorrhage was feasible with both continuous partial and sequential partial measures, and the significant improvement in the severity of acidosis and distal organ injury was observed in the sequential pREBOA. Table and Figures | Reference | Supplementary Material | Related Articles | Metrics

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Hepatic rupture secondary to HELLP syndrome: outcomes in three cases Salvador Gomez-Carro, Ruben R. Lozano-Salazar, Kassandra Santos-Zaldívar, Victor Andres Villasuso-Alcocer, Nina Méndez-Domínguez World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (1): 56-58.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.003 Abstract （203）   HTML （12）    PDF（pc） （133KB）（431）       Knowledge map    Save Reference | Supplementary Material | Related Articles | Metrics

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Impact of next-generation sequencing on antimicrobial treatment in immunocompromised adults with suspected infections Jia Li, Jiazhen Luo, Tao Hu, Ling Cheng, Weiwei Shang, Li Yan World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (2): 105-110.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.025 Abstract （196）   HTML （22）    PDF（pc） （439KB）（446）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: Prompt pathogen identification can have a substantial impact on the optimization of antimicrobial treatment. The objective of the study was to assess the diagnostic value of next-generation sequencing (NGS) for identifying pathogen and its clinical impact on antimicrobial intervention in immunocompromised patients with suspected infections. METHODS: This was a retrospective study. Between January and August 2020, 47 adult immunocompromised patients underwent NGS testing under the following clinical conditions: 1) prolonged fever and negative conventional cultures; 2) new-onset fever despite empiric antimicrobial treatment; and 3) afebrile with suspected infections on imaging. Clinical data, including conventional microbial test results and antimicrobial treatment before and after NGS, were collected. Data were analyzed according to documented changes in antimicrobial treatment (escalated, no change, or de-escalated) after the NGS results. RESULTS: The median time from hospitalization to NGS sampling was 19 d. Clinically relevant pathogens were detected via NGS in 61.7% of patients (29/47), more than half of whom suffered from fungemia (n=17), resulting in an antimicrobial escalation in 53.2% of patients (25/47) and antimicrobial de-escalation in 0.2% of patients (1/47). Antimicrobial changes were mostly due to the identification of fastidious organisms such as Legionella, Pneumocystis jirovecii, and Candida. In the remaining three cases, NGS detected clinically relevant pathogens also detected by conventional cultures a few days later. The antimicrobial treatment was subsequently adjusted according to the susceptibility test results. Overall, NGS changed antimicrobial management in 55.3% (26/47) of patients, and conventional culture detected clinically relevant pathogens in 14.9% of the patients (7/47). CONCLUSION: With its rapid identification and high sensitivity, NGS could be a promising tool for identifying relevant pathogens and enabling rapid appropriate treatment in immunocompromised patients with suspected infections. Table and Figures | Reference | Supplementary Material | Related Articles | Metrics

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The value of toxicological analysis in acute poisoning patients with uncertain exposure histories: a retrospective and descriptive study from an institute of poisoning Qifang Shi, Gen Ba, Zhenyu Xia, Zhengsheng Mao, Hao Sun, Jinsong Zhang World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (2): 98-104.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.022 Abstract （194）   HTML （23）    PDF（pc） （435KB）（421）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: In clinical practice, some patients might not be able or unwilling to provide a thorough history of medication and poison exposure. The aim of this study was to use toxicological analysis to examine the clinical characteristics of patients with acute poisoning whose exposure history was uncertain from a toxicological analysis perspective. METHODS: This was a retrospective and descriptive study from an institute of poisoning. Patient registration information and test reports spanning the period from April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2022, were obtained. Patients with uncertain exposure histories and who underwent toxicological analysis were included. Clinical manifestations and categories of toxics were analyzed. RESULTS: Among the 195 patients with positive toxicological analysis results, the main causes of uncertain exposure history was disturbance of consciousness (62.6%), unawareness (23.6%) and unwillingness or lack of cooperation (13.8%). The predominant clinical manifestations were disturbed consciousness (62.6%), followed by vomiting and nausea (14.4%) and liver function abnormalities (8.7%). A comparison of clinical manifestations between patients with positive and negative (n=99) toxicological analyses results revealed significantly different proportions of disturbances in consciousness (63% vs. 21%), dizziness (1.5% vs. 5.1%), multi-organ failure (1.5% vs. 7.1%), and local pain (0 vs 4%). The main categories of substances involved were psychiatric medications (23.1%), sedatives (20.5%), insecticides (13.8%), and herbicides (12.8%). CONCLUSION: The clinical manifestations of acute poisoning in patients with an uncertain exposure history are diverse and nonspecific, and toxicological analysis plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of such patients. Table and Figures | Reference | Supplementary Material | Related Articles | Metrics

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Heparin-binding protein as a predictor of mortality in patients with diabetes mellitus and community-acquired pneumonia in intensive care unit : a propensity score matched study Yuhan Sun, Baoqing Sun, Zhigang Ren, Mingshan Xue, Changju Zhu, Qi Liu World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (4): 263-272.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.033 Abstract （194）   HTML （7）    PDF（pc） （620KB）（427）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are vulnerable to community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), which have a high mortality rate. We aimed to investigate the value of heparin-binding protein (HBP) as a prognostic marker of mortality in patients with DM and CAP. METHODS: This retrospective study included CAP patients who were tested for HBP at intensive care unit (ICU) admission from January 2019 to April 2020. Patients were allocated to the DM or non-DM group and paired with propensity score matching. Baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes up to 90 days were evaluated. The primary outcome was the 10-day mortality. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, Kaplan-Meier analysis, and Cox regression were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Among 152 enrolled patients, 60 pairs were successfully matched. There was no significant difference in 10-day mortality, while more patients in the DM group died within 28 d (P=0.024) and 90 d (P=0.008). In the DM group, HBP levels at ICU admission were higher in 10-day non-survivors than in 10-day survivors (median 182.21 [IQR: 55.43-300] ng/ml vs. median 66.40 [IQR: 34.13-107.85] ng/mL, P=0.019), and HBP levels could predict the 10-day mortality with an area under the ROC curve of 0.747. The cut-off value, sensitivity, and specificity were 160.6 ng/mL, 66.7%, and 90.2%, respectively. Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that HBP was an independent prognostic factor for 10-day (HR 7.196, 95%CI: 1.596-32.455, P=0.01), 28-day (HR 4.381, 95%CI: 1.449-13.245, P=0.009), and 90-day mortality (HR 4.581, 95%CI: 1.637-12.819, P=0.004) in patients with DM. CONCLUSION: Plasma HBP at ICU admission was associated with the 10-day, 28-day, and 90-day mortality, and might be a prognostic factor in patients with DM and CAP. Table and Figures | Reference | Supplementary Material | Related Articles | Metrics

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Protective mechanism of quercetin in alleviating sepsis-related acute respiratory distress syndrome based on network pharmacology and in vitro experiments Weichao Ding, Wei Zhang, Juan Chen, Mengmeng Wang, Yi Ren, Jing Feng, Xiaoqin Han, Xiaohang Ji, Shinan Nie, Zhaorui Sun World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (2): 111-120.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.030 Abstract （193）   HTML （18）    PDF（pc） （2738KB）（561）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: Sepsis-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has a high mortality rate, and no effective treatment is available currently. Quercetin is a natural plant product with many pharmacological activities, such as antioxidative, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects. This study aimed to elucidate the protective mechanism of quercetin against sepsis-related ARDS. METHODS: In this study, network pharmacology and in vitro experiments were used to investigate the underlying mechanisms of quercetin against sepsis-related ARDS. Core targets and signaling pathways of quercetin against sepsis-related ARDS were screened and were verified by in vitro experiments. RESULTS: A total of 4,230 targets of quercetin, 360 disease targets of sepsis-related ARDS, and 211 intersection targets were obtained via database screening. Among the 211 intersection targets, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), albumin (ALB), AKT serine/threonine kinase 1 (AKT1), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were identified as the core targets. A Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed 894 genes involved in the inflammatory response, apoptosis regulation, and response to hypoxia. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis identified 106 pathways. After eliminating and generalizing, the hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1), TNF, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), and nucleotide-binding and oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptor signaling pathways were identified. Molecular docking revealed that quercetin had good binding activity with the core targets. Moreover, quercetin blocked the HIF-1, TNF, NF-κB, and NOD-like receptor signaling pathways in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced murine alveolar macrophage (MH-S) cells. It also suppressed the inflammatory response, oxidative reactions, and cell apoptosis. CONCLUSION: Quercetin ameliorates sepsis-related ARDS by binding to its core targets and blocking the HIF-1, TNF, NF-κB, and NOD-like receptor signaling pathways to reduce inflammation, cell apoptosis, and oxidative stress. Table and Figures | Reference | Supplementary Material | Related Articles | Metrics

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Risk factors for postpartum posttraumatic stress disorder after emergency admission Fengxia Du, Jun Zha, Yan Li, Lichao Fang, Shuyu Xia, Youjia Yu World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (2): 121-125.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.013 Abstract （191）   HTML （12）    PDF（pc） （418KB）（538）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: Postpartum posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur in women who give birth after emergency admission. The identification of risk factors for this condition is crucial for developing effective preventive measures. This retrospective study aimed to explore the incidence and risk factors for postpartum PTSD in women who give birth after emergency admission. METHODS: Medical records of women who gave birth after emergency admission were collected between March 2021 and April 2023. The patients’ general conditions and perinatal clinical indicators were recorded. The puerperae were divided into PTSD group and control group based on symptom occurrence at six weeks postpartum. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors. RESULTS: A total of 276 puerperae were included, with a PTSD incidence of 20.3% at six weeks postpartum. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified emergency cesarean section (odds ratio [OR]=2.102; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.114-3.966, P=0.022), admission to the emergency department after midnight (12:00 AM) (OR=2.245; 95%CI: 1.170-4.305, P<0.001), and cervical dilation (OR=3.203; 95%CI 1.670-6.141, P=0.039) as independent risk factors for postpartum PTSD. Analgesia pump use (OR= 0.500; 95%CI 0.259-0.966, P=0.015) was found to be a protective factor against postpartum PTSD. CONCLUSION: Emergency cesarean section, admission to the emergency department after midnight, and cervical dilation were identified as independent risk factors for postpartum PTSD, while analgesic pump use was a protective factor. These findings provide insights for developing more effective preventive measures for women who give birth after emergency admission. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics

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Molecular mechanism of Xuebijing in treating pyogenic liver abscess complicated with sepsis Wei Zhou, Maiying Fan, Xiang Li, Fang Yu, En Zhou, Xiaotong Han World Journal of Emergency Medicine    2024, 15 (1): 35-40.   DOI: 10.5847/wjem.j.1920-8642.2024.016 Abstract （190）   HTML （25）    PDF（pc） （306KB）（620）       Knowledge map    Save BACKGROUND: Xuebijing (XBJ) can alleviate the inflammatory response, improve organ function, and shorten the intensive care unit (ICU) stay in patients with pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) complicated with sepsis, but the molecular mechanisms have not been elucidated. This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism of XBJ in treating PLA complicated with sepsis using a network pharmacology approach. METHODS: The active ingredients and targets of XBJ were retrieved from the ETCM database. Potential targets related to PLA and sepsis were retrieved from the GeneCards, PharmGKB, DisGeNet, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM), Therapeutic Targets Database (TTD), and DrugBank databases. The targets of PLA complicated with sepsis were mapped to the targets of XBJ to identify potential treatment targets. Protein-protein interaction networks were analyzed using the STRING database. Potential treatment targets were imported into the Metascape platform for Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. Molecular docking was performed to validate the interactions between active ingredients and core targets. RESULTS: XBJ was found to have 54 potential treatment targets for PLA complicated with sepsis. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) were identified as core targets. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed important pathways, including the interleukin-17 (IL-17) signaling pathway, the TNF signaling pathway, the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, and the Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathway. Molecular docking experiments indicated stable binding between XBJ active ingredients and core targets. CONCLUSION: XBJ may exert therapeutic effects on PLA complicated with sepsis by modulating signaling pathways, such as the IL-17, TNF, NF-κB, and TLR pathways, and targeting IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics