bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Training With a Velocity Loss Threshold or to Repetition Failure on Upper-Body Strength Development in Professional Australian Footballers
Authors: Kilgallon Mark J. , Johnston Michael J. , Kilduff Liam P. , Watsford Mark L.
Published: May 2021

Purpose: To compare resistance training using a velocity loss threshold with training to repetition failure on upper-body strength parameters in professional Australian footballers. Methods: A total of 26 professional Australian footballers (23.9 [4.2] y, 189.9 [7.8] cm, 88.2 [8.8] kg) tested 1-repetition-maximum strength (FPmax) and mean barbell velocity at 85% of 1-repetition maximum on floor press (FPvel). They were then assigned to 2 training groups: 20% velocity loss threshold training (VL; n = 12, maximum-effort lift velocity) or training to repetition failure (TF; n = 14, self-selected lift velocity). Subjects trained twice per week for 3 weeks before being reassessed on FPmax and FPvel. Training volume (total repetitions) was recorded for all training sessions. No differences were present between groups on any pretraining measure. Results: The TF group significantly improved FPmax (105.2–110.9 kg, +5.4%), while the VL group did not (107.5–109.2 kg, +1.6%) (P > .05). Both groups significantly increased FPvel (0.38–0.46 m·s−1, +19.1% and 0.37–0.42 m·s−1, +16.7%, respectively) with no between-groups differences evident (P > .05). The TF group performed significantly more training volume (12.2 vs 6.8 repetitions per session, P > .05). Conclusions: Training to repetition failure improved FPmax, while training using a velocity loss threshold of 20% did not. Both groups demonstrated similar improvements in FPvel despite the VL group completing 45% less total training volume than the TF group. The reduction in training volume associated with implementing a 20% velocity loss threshold may negatively impact the development of upper-body maximum strength while still enhancing submaximal movement velocity.
Elevated type I interferon responses potentiate metabolic dysfunction, inflammation, and accelerated aging in mtDNA mutator mice
Authors: Lei Yuanjiu , Guerra Martinez Camila , Torres-Odio Sylvia , Bell Samantha L. , Birdwell Christine E. , Bryant Joshua D. , Tong Carl W. , Watson Robert O. , West Laura Ciaccia , West A. Phillip
Published: May 2021

IFN-I–NRF2 signaling imbalances drive immunometabolic dysfunction, inflammation, and premature aging in POLG mutator mice.
Dynamic real-time imaging of living cell traction force by piezo-phototronic light nano-antenna array
Authors: Zheng Qiang , Peng Mingzeng , Liu Zhuo , Li Shuyu , Han Rongcheng , Ouyang Han , Fan Yubo , Pan Caofeng , Hu Weiguo , Zhai Junyi , Li Zhou , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: May 2021

High-resolution dynamic force mapping of cardiomyocytes is revealed by nanopillars with piezo-phototronic effect.
Multiple integrated metabolic strategies allow foraminiferan protists to thrive in anoxic marine sediments
Authors: Gomaa Fatma , Utter Daniel R. , Powers Christopher , Beaudoin David J. , Edgcomb Virginia P. , Filipsson Helena L. , Hansel Colleen M. , Wankel Scott D. , Zhang Ying , Bernhard Joan M.
Published: May 2021

Mitochondria-bearing microeukaryotes produce energy through anaerobic pathways to succeed in the face of ocean deoxygenation.
Inhalable Nanobody (PiN-21) prevents and treats SARS-CoV-2 infections in Syrian hamsters at ultra-low doses
Authors: Nambulli Sham , Xiang Yufei , Tilston-Lunel Natasha L. , Rennick Linda J. , Sang Zhe , Klimstra William B. , Reed Douglas S. , Crossland Nicholas A. , Shi Yi , Duprex W. Paul
Published: May 2021

Aerosol delivery of an ultrapotent nanobody efficiently prevents and treats SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Toward next-generation learned robot manipulation
Authors: Cui Jinda , Trinkle Jeff
Published: May 2021

This Review identifies challenges and research frontiers in learning techniques to advance adaptive robot manipulation skills.
Getting a grip on reality
Authors: Goldberg Ken
Published: May 2021

The ability to reliably grasp and manipulate novel objects is a grand challenge for robotics.
Depleting plasmacytoid dendritic cells reduces local type I interferon responses and disease activity in patients with cutaneous lupus
Authors: Karnell Jodi L. , Wu Yanping , Mittereder Nanette , Smith Michael A. , Gunsior Michele , Yan Li , Casey Kerry A. , Henault Jill , Riggs Jeffrey M. , Nicholson Simone M. , Sanjuan Miguel A. , Vousden Katherine A. , Werth Victoria P. , Drappa Jörn , Illei Gabor G. , Rees William A. , Ratchford John N. ,   VIB7734 Trial Investigators, Chatham W. Winn , Chindalore Vishala , Gupta Ramesh , Jeka Slawomir , Kivitz Alan , Ford Theresa Lawrence , Marano Anne , de la Fuente Jose Luis Marenco , Mathews Steven , Reich Adam , Rudinskaya Alla , Rudnicka Lidia , Terrelonge Antonio
Published: May 2021

VIB7734 depletes plasmacytoid dendritic cells and demonstrates clinical benefit in patients with cutaneous lupus.
Neonatal Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli Infection Disrupts Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis Signaling
Authors: Hennessey Carly , Keogh Ciara E. , Barboza Mariana , Brust-Mascher Ingrid , Knotts Trina A. , Sladek Jessica A. , Pusceddu Matteo M. , Stokes Patricia , Rabasa Gonzalo , Honeycutt Mackenzie , Walsh Olivia , Nichols Rene , Reardon Colin , Gareau Mélanie G.
Published: May 2021

Diarrheal diseases are a leading cause of death in children under the age of 5 years worldwide. Repeated early-life exposures to diarrheal pathogens can result in comorbidities including stunted growth and cognitive deficits, suggesting an impairment in the microbiota-gut-brain (MGB) axis.
The Rcs Stress Response System Regulator GumB Modulates Serratia marcescens-Induced Inflammation and Bacterial Proliferation in a Rabbit Keratitis Model and Cytotoxicity
In Vitro
Authors: Romanowski Eric G. , Stella Nicholas A. , Romanowski John E. , Yates Kathleen A. , Dhaliwal Deepinder K. , St. Leger Anthony J. , Shanks Robert M. Q.
Published: May 2021

In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the conserved bacterial IgaA-family protein, GumB, mediates microbial pathogenesis associated with
Serratia marcescens
ocular infections through regulation of the Rcs stress response system. The role of the Rcs system and bacterial stress response systems for microbial keratitis is not known, and the role of IgaA proteins in mammalian pathogenesis models has only been tested with partial-function allele variants of
Salmonella
.
Media-dependent oxidase reaction in a strain of Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: McGrath V A , Overman S B , Overman T L
Published: May 2021

A strain of Aeromonas hydrophila isolated from bile was oxidase positive only when grown on nonselective media. The isolate was oxidase negative when grown on gram-negative selective and/or differential media. It is proposed that oxidase tests on gram-negative rods be performed on colonies grown on nonselective media to assure valid results.
Simplified complete medium for the growth of Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Jones R T , Talley R S
Published: May 2021

A complete medium for the growth of Neisseria gonorrhoeae has been developed, using the same basic ingredients contained in commercial media but with fewer supplements. Based on a comparison of plating efficiencies, this medium (designated TTU Complete Medium) supported the growth of laboratory strains of N. gonorrhoeae equal to that obtained on commercial GC agar base medium supplemented with Iso VitaleX. It was also equivalent to the commercial medium in supporting the growth of 67 clinical isolates and 6 auxotypes of N. gonorrhoeae when tested by the streak plate method. Based on turbidity measurements and viable plate counts, the liquid equivalent of TTU Complete Medium supported maximal growth yields of N. gonorrhoeae. The toxicity of different brands of agar appeared to be a major factor in preventing the growth of N. gonorrhoeae strains on solid media. The addition of starch neutralized the toxicity of some types of agar but not of others.
Complement-fixing antibody response to rotavirus infection
Authors: Gust I D , Pringle R C , Barnes G L , Davidson G P , Bishop R F
Published: May 2021

A human rotavirus complement-fixing (CF) antigen, prepared by purification of large volumes of fluid feces collected from children with winter diarrhea, was used to study the development and persistence of antibody in children with diarrhea and the prevalence of rotavirus antibody in Melbourne. In children with diarrhea, antibody rises were detectable within 4 to 6 weeks of the onset of illness, and the titers usually remained elevated for the next 1 to 2 years. CF antibody did not develop in two children with proven rotavirus infection aged less than 6 months, an age at which poor CF responses to other viruses have also been observed. A study of CF antibody levels in the general community showed that in Melbourne, most children have been infected with human rotavirus by the age of 3 years.
Continuous aerosol therapy system using a modified Collison nebulizer
Authors: Young H W , Dominik J W , Walker J S , Larson E W
Published: May 2021

A Collison nebulizer was incorporated into an exposure system for administering antiviral compounds as continuous aerosols to mice infected with influenza virus. The nebulizer was modified to control aerosol output by varying the liquid feed rate. A multiple regression equation was developed from data obtained with uranine dye to define the aerosol concentration of the dye in the system as a function of the concentration of the dye in the spray fluid and the rate at which it was aerosolized. The rate of change of the concentration of the test solution due to evaporative losses was also ascertained for a 1-ml/min feed rate over a 23.5-h period of operation. Procedures are outlined for using these relationships to determine the concentration of a given drug that will result in a given dose. Performance data for the drug ribavirin are presented.
Immunological procedure for the rapid and specific identification of Coccidioides immitis cultures
Authors: Standard P G , Kaufman L
Published: May 2021

An immunological procedure for the rapid and specific identification of Coccidioides immitis isolates has been developed. The specificity of the procedure is based on the fact that C. immitis produces antigens that are not produced by morphologically similar fungi. The procedure involved the transfer of heavy mold-form inocula to flasks that contained small volumes of brain heart infusion broth. Shake cultures were grown at 25 degrees C on a gyratory shaker at 150 rpm. The concentrated supernatant antigens so obtained from broth cultures were tested in parallel with coccidioidin by a microimmunodiffusion technique against C. immitis antiserum. The ability of the immunological procedure to identify C. immitis cultures was evaluated by testing the supernatant antigens of 166 unknown isolates, many of which, by gross or microscopic examination or both, resembled C. immitis or belonged to the family Gymnoascaceae. Each culture was also identified by conventional laboratory procedures. Comparative evaluation showed that the immunological test for C. immitis was 100% sensitive and specific. The diagnostic precipitin bands that were produced by the interaction of the C. immitis supernatants and antisera were shown to consist of (i) a heat-stable antigen comparable to that active in the tube precipitin test and (ii) two heat-labile antigens, one of which was associated with complement fixation reactivity. With pure cultures, this immunological procedure permitted the identification of C. immitis isolates within 5 days.
Physiological differentiation of viridans streptococci
Authors: Facklam R R
Published: May 2021

Twelve hundred and twenty-seven clinical isolates and eighty stock strains of viridans streptococci were tested for serological and physiological characteristics. Because the serological reactions of these strains varied, a differentiation scheme could not be based on these reactions. For the same reason, there could be no correlation of serological characteristics with physiological characteristics. Nearly 97% of the clinical isolates were speciated by differences in physiological characteristics. Ten different physiological species were recognized. The physiological speciation scheme was based on stable enzymatic reactions rather than on results of tolerance tests. The study included air-tolerant anaerobic streptococcal strains as well as viridans streptococcal strains not normally found in humans. The differentiation scheme and nomenclature of the author are related to those of other investigators. Differences in the distribution of species isolated from different clinical sources and human infections were also noted. A key for the differentiation of human isolates of viridans streptococci is proposed.
Fever of unknown origin: attempts to isolate L-forms and other aberrant bacterial forms
Authors: Gleckman R , Esposito A , Madoff S
Published: May 2021

An investigation was conducted with 65 selected febrile patients, 33 of whom fulfilled in all respects the classic criteria of "fever of unknown origin." Clinical evaluation included extensive radiological and immunological testing. Multiple blood cultures were examined by conventional methods in control studies. In addition, venous blood was cultured in a variety of hyperosmolar media using the special techniques used to detect L-forms and other cell wall-defective bacterial forms. By the extensive methods used, no bacterial forms were isolated. The use of media containing osmotic stabilizers did not detect L-forms or other aberrant bacterial forms, nor did it contribute to the determination of the etiology of fever of unknown origin in these patients.
Comparison of Counterimmunoelectrophoresis and Electron Microscopy for Laboratory Diagnosis of Human Reovirus-Like Agent-Associated Infantile Gastroenteritis
Authors: Spence L. , Fauvel M. , Petro R. , Bloch S.
Published: May 2021

Counterimmunoelectrophoresis was compared with electron microscopy for detection of human reovirus-like agent in fecal specimens. Both tests gave very similar results.
Use of Serum Stored on Filter Paper Disks in Complement Fixation Tests for Adenovirus Antibody
Authors: Edwards Earl A.
Published: May 2021

A simple method of storage and retrieval of serum samples for adenovirus serology is described. Complement-fixing antibodies remained stable for at least 5 years when stored at −10°C or below.
Solid-phase radioimmunoassay of rubella virus immunoglobulin M antibodies: comparison with sucrose density gradient centrifugation test
Authors: Meurman O H , Viljanen M K , Granfors K
Published: May 2021

The solid-phase radioimmunoassay (RIA) method developed in our laboratory for demonstrating rubella virus-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies (Kalimo et al., 1976) was further developed for demonstrating IgM antibodies. A total of 188 serum specimens were tested. The statistical probability of obtaining a false-positive IgM result, based on determinations of 100 rubella-negative sera, was below 0.001. Nonspecific inhibitors and IgM antibodies against other viruses tested did not interfere in the assay. In 2 out of 20 (10%) serum specimens with rheumatoid factor, a false-positive IgM result was obtained. The new RIA method was compared with sucrose density gradient centrifugation, followed by hemagglutination inhibition testing of the separated immunoglobulins with respect to demonstrating IgM antibodies. In patients with acute rubella infection, IgM antibodies were demonstrated by RIA in 9 out of 20 acute-phase sera and in all 20 early-convalescent-phase sera, compared with 7 out of 20 acute-phase sera and 19 out of 20 early-convalescent-phase sera by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. The results obtained indicate that the RIA method is reliable and sensitive and suitable for routine diagnostic use.
Use of the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and its microadaptation for the serodiagnosis of toxoplasmosis
Authors: Walls K W , Bullock S L , English D K
Published: May 2021

The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has proved to be a sensitive and specific quantitative procedure for the serodiagnosis of toxoplasmosis. Using the toxoplasma model, several parameters of the test were investigated. Day-to-day reproducibility was 90% within one twofold dilution and 98% specific when tested against batteries of sera from other diseases. Both the tube method and the microtitration method were used successfully. ELISA results are equivalent to those found in the indirect immunofluorescence test, yet the ELISA procedure is simpler and more rapid to perform.
Pasteurella pneumonia: report of a case and review of the literature
Authors: Starkebaum G A , Plorde J J
Published: May 2021

A case of pneumonia due to Pasturella ureae was encountered in a 57-year-old man who developed bilateral pulmonary infiltrates and respiratory insufficiency while convalescing in the hospital from a hip fracture and multiple rib fractures. Cultures of his sputum grew an essentially pure growth of Pasturella ureae. This organism, a small gram-negative rod, could be differentiated from the other Pasteurella species by its ability to hydrolyze urea and failure to produce indole. The literature on Pasteurella infections is briefly reviewed, and the recent taxonomic revisions of the genus Pasteurella are discussed.
New tests for characterization of mumps virus antibodies: hemolysis inhibition, single radial immunodiffusion with immobilized virions, and mixed hemadsorption
Authors: Norrby E , Grandien M , Orvell C
Published: May 2021

Hemolysis inhibition (HLI), single radial immunodiffusion (SRID) with immobilized virions, and mixed hemadsorption tests were used for measuring antibodies against mumps virus. Rabbit hyperimmune sera against mumps and early and late human convalescent sera were analyzed. All three tests identified antibodies against both hemagglutinin and the second major envelope component, hemolysin (fusion factor). The sensitivity of the HLI test corresponded to that of the hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test, but in some sera HLI antibodies occurred in greater quantity than HI antibodies. The SRID test readily identified rises in antibody titers in connection with acute infection. Due to its simplicity and lack of sensitivity to nonspecific inhibitors, it is recommended for use in this context. The mixed hemadsorption test showed a high sensitivity for specific identification of mumps antibodies. It therefore may be suitable for use in screening for immunity to mumps.
Cellular immunity in chronic Chagas' disease
Authors: Montufar O M , Musatti C C , Mendes E , Mendes N F
Published: May 2021

The cellular immune response was assessed in 20 patients with chronic Chagas' disease (American trypanosomiasis). Thymus-derived lymphocyte function was determined in vivo by cutaneous reactivity to several antigens including a soluble preparation derived from Trypanosoma cruzi and sensitization to 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene. The in vitro T-cell reactivity was investigated by the proliferative response to phytohemagglutinin and to T. cruzi antigen and by inhibition of leukocyte migration with the specific antigen. In addition, the proportion and absolute numbers of peripheral blood T and B-lymphocytes were determined by rosette formation. This research indicates that the general and specific cellular immune response, evaluated by the tests herein mentioned, is well preserved in patients, with Chagas' disease. We conclude that chronic Chagas' disease is not associated with deficiency in cellular immunity, nor does it lead to it. Conceivably, the active participation of delayed hypersensitivity may play an important role in the expression of the human chagasic lesions.
Results of a nationwide proficiency test for carcinoembryonic antigen
Authors: Taylor R N , Fulford K M , Huong A Y
Published: May 2021

A proficiency testing survey for carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was conducted by the Center for Disease Control. The results from 125 laboratories throughout the United States indicate that many laboratories perform satisfactorily, but some laboratories need substantial improvement. Failure to follow manufacturer's recommendations and failure to heed the indications of "out of control" control results were two of the reasons for poor performance. Results reported for samples with CEA levels of larger than or equal to 20 ng/ml showed that the direct method produced significantly higher values than the indirect method on either whole of diluted plasma. Almost one-fourth of the results reported in this survey were placed in the wrong nominal group. It was determined that the results were log normally distributed and, consequently, that statistical methods that are appropriate for this distribtuion should be used for the analysis of CEA results. Most of the variation observed was the result of poor comparability between laboratories rather than lack of precision within the laboratory. This indicates that better performance could be achieved by better standardization and closer adherence to established procedures.
Comparative study of three methods of identification of Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Rutherford I , Moody V , Gavan T L , Ayers L W , Taylor D L
Published: May 2021

Three separate hospital clinical microbiology laboratories using three different identification systems participated in the identification of Enterobactericeae from a central pool of 'unknown" clinical isolates. With conventional tubed media, API-20E (Anlytab Products Inc.) and R/B tube (Corning Diagnostics) systems, there was a 91.1% agreement in the species designation. No significant differences at the 95% confidence level were found among the systems. Evaluation of individual tests within the systems used revealed lysine decarboxylase of the conventional and citrate of the API-20E system to be significantly different from the same test within the other two systems. The lysine decarboxylase of the conventional system had species relatedness, whereas the differences in citrate of the API-20E system were not related to a particular species. These individual test variations did not affect final organism identification. Reproducibility, evaluated as the system's ability to designate the same identification on two separate occasions, was 92 to 94% for each system. Exact duplication of selected sets of reactions was 60% for conventional, 45% for API-20E, and 61% for R/B. The variations in sets of reactions differed with the system and with the organism involved. The findings suggest equivalency among the three systems in ability to identify common clinical isolates of Enterobacteriaceae and point out the limited usefulness of these systems for biochemical biotyping.
Allescheria (Petriellidium) boydii sinusitis in a compromised host
Authors: Gluckman S J , Ries K , Abrutyn E
Published: May 2021

The first case of Allescheria (Petriellidium) boydii sinusitis is reported. The organism was isolated from the maxillary sinus in an elderly, diabetic, chronic alcoholic man on maintenance hemodialysis who developed a syndrome resembling mucormycosis. Infections with A. boydii are infrequent and are most commonly limited to Madura foot. In addition, several cases of pulmonary and central nervous system involvement have been described. There is no established therapy for A. boydii, since the published data on antimicrobial sensitivity are limited. Our organism was inhibited by 1.25 mg of amphotericin B per ml and 0.15 mg of miconazide per ml.
Preliminary observations on the application of the multiple inocula (replicator) method for carbon substrate utilization studies of Alcaligenes faecalis
Authors: Riley P S , Rarick H R , Utter G
Published: May 2021

The use of the replicator technique in evaluating carbon source utilization by 55 cultures of Alcaligenes faecalis was examined. Six of the 20 substrates tested were utilized by the bacterial cultures. In this study, the reproducibility of the technique was 100%.
Smooth phage-resistant Brucella abortus from bovine tissue
Authors: Harrington R , Bond D R , Brown G M
Published: May 2021

Conventional typing, oxidative metabolic, and virulence tests were conducted on a phage-resistant Brucella abortus strain isolated from the supramammary lymph node of a cow.
An inexpensive device for evacuating and gassing anaerobic systems with in-house vacuum
Authors: Whaley D N , Gorman G W
Published: May 2021

An inexpensive, compact device to aid in establishing an anaerobic environment for bacterial cultures is described. This device is designed for use with an in-house vacuum system and can replace the vacuum pump, "U" utbe manometer system commonly used for this purpose.
Changes in Gene Expression and Neuroinflammation in the Hippocampus after Focal Brain Ischemia: Involvement in the Long-Term Cognitive and Mental Disorders
Authors: Shishkina Galina T. , Kalinina Tatiana S. , Gulyaeva Natalia V. , Lanshakov Dmitry A. , Dygalo Nikolay N.
Published: May 2021

Ischemic brain injuries are accompanied by the long-term changes in gene expression in the hippocampus, the limbic system structure, involved in the regulation of key aspects of the higher nervous activity, such as cognitive functions and emotions. The altered expression of genes and proteins encoded by them may be related to the development of post-ischemic psycho-emotional and cognitive disturbances. Activation of neuroinflammation following stroke in the hippocampus has been suggested to play an essential role in induction of long-lasting consequences. Identification of changes in the gene expression patterns after ischemia and investigation of the dynamics of these changes in the hippocampus are the necessary first steps toward understanding molecular pathways responsible for the development of post-stroke cognitive impairments and mental pathologies.
AB0615 ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF OBESITY ON BONE LOSS
Authors: Yasmine M. , Mariem S. , Miladi S. , Fazaa A. , Frigui E. , Souebni L. , Ouenniche K. , Kassab S. , Chekili S. , Ben Abdelghani K. , Laatar A.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Most of the available evidence supports a lower risk of vertebral fracture in obese adults. This belief was partially suggested by the positive correlation between bone mineral density (BMD) and body mass index (BMI).

Objectives:

We aimed to assess the association of BMI with BMD and to explore their relation with age and gender.

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study including Tunisian patients referred for an assessment of BMD through dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). BMD was measured using standard methods over the lumbar spine L1-L4, the total proximal femur. The results were expressed as T-scores according to the World Health Organization definition. Patients were sub-grouped according to age (≤50 and >50 years). Association between BMD and age as well as BMI was also assessed (G1: obese patients and G2: non-obese patients). The level of significance was fixed for p<0.05

Results:

The study included 100 patients with a female predominance (sex ratio =10.1). The mean age for women was 61.9 ±13 [18-83] years and the mean age for men was 59.7± 7.5 [47-72] years. The mean body mass index was 29.1± 5 kg/m2 [15-45] for women and 27.6 ±3.6 Kg/m2 [22.8-32.9] for men. Forty percent of all patients were obese with a mean BMI of 32.9 kg/m2 ± 4.3. Osteopenia was diagnosed in half of the men (55.5%) and most of the women (70%). Twenty-nine percent of patients suffered from osteoporosis. BMD of the spine was similar between men and women (p=0.53). Men had higher BMD of the hip than women (p=0,038). The mainstream of the subjects >50 years had more vertebral fractures, suffered more from osteoporosis and had a higher BMI than those < 50 years (95% % vs 5%; p=0.04), (92.3% vs 77 %; p=0.03) and (82.5% vs 17.5%; p=0.05) respectively. There was no correlation between BMD of the spine and higher BMI (0.94 in G1 vs 0.98 in G2, p=0.3). Similarly, there was no correlation between BMD of the hip and higher BMI (0.9 in G1 vs 0.84 in G2, p=0.2). Moreover, Obese patients had less a vertebral fracture but with no statistically significant correlation (21% in G1 vs 25% in G2; p=0.2).

Conclusion:

Our study showed that obesity was frequent among Tunisian patients but was not associated with a higher BMD. Older age was directly associated with a lower BMD and higher risk for vertebral fracture.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared.
AB0606 IMPACT OF ABDOMINAL AORTIC CALCIFICATION AND SERUM CREATININE-TO-CYSTATIN C RATIO TO BONE FRAGILITY FRACTURE
Authors: Yoshii I.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Relationship between bone fragility fracture (BFF) and abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) has been discussed in recent decade.

Objectives:

Now we investigated the relationship between the two and a new factor of BFF: serum creatinine-to cystatin C ratio (Cr/CysC).

Methods:

A total of nine-hundred and thirty one osteoporotic patients were recruited. Diagnosis of osteoporosis was indexed by the criteria of Japanese Primary Osteoporosis Diagnostic Criteria. Patient’s lumbar spine X-ray pictures were taken and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) of lumbar spine and hip joint were tested at the same time, and all of them were followed us for more than one year up to nine years with at least an administration of vitamin D. Anti-osteoporotic drugs were administrated for 660 patients.

Vertebral compression fracture (VF) and AAC were evaluated with lateral view of X-ray picture. VF was classified in accordance with Semi-quantified method (SQ), and AAC was classified as follows: Grade0; No calcification, Grade1; Partial calcification not continued over one vertebral height, Grade2; Calcification continuous over one vertebral height. BFF history of the patients except of VF was harvested from the medical record and with interview. Patients’ background at first measurement were measured and Cr/CysC was calculated as well. Prevalence of BFF at the baseline for each grade with SQ was compared according to the grade of AAC. Background factors including bone mineral densities (BMD) of the lumbar spine and hip joint measured using DXA were compared for each AAC grade.

Occurrence of BFF was picked up during following up (BFF_F/U) of the patients. Prevalence of BFF_F/U for each ACC grade was statistically compared, and relationship between BFF_F/U and factors at the baseline was statistically evaluated.

Results:

A total of 219 of Grade0, 428 of Grade1, and 278 of Grade2 were recruited. Prevalence of BFF at baseline for each VF group was 182, 16, 9, and 12 for Grade0, 138, 98, 122, and 70 for Grade1, and 53, 45, 82, and 144 for Grade2, with Grade-0, Grade-1, Grade-2, and Grade-3 by SQ, respectively (p<0.01). Factors that demonstrated significant correlation with occurrence of BFF were sex, age, BMD of the lumbar spine and the hip joint, and Cr/CysC with univariate mode binary logistic regression anaysis. However, Cr/CysC did not demonstrate significant correlation using multivariate model.

Occurrence of BFF_F/U for each AAC group was 26, 90, and 82 for Grade0, Grade1, and Grade2, respectively (p<0.01). The only factor that demonstrated significantly correlated with occurrence of BFF_F/U was Cr/CysC in the Grade1 and the Grade2 of the AAC classification.

Conclusion:

ACC grade significantly correlates with occurrence of BFF. Cr/CysC also significantly correlates with occurrence of BFF after follow up under presence of AAC.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared.
AB0607 DO HIP STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS MEASUREMENTS PREDICT FRACTURE RISK IN PATIENTS WITH POLYMYALGIA RHEUMATICA?
Authors: Ark R. , Bukhari M.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory condition which commonly affects the elderly. Risk of fracture is higher in this group of patients compared to the general population and can lead to increased morbidity and mortality (1). Hip structural analysis (HSA) is a technique that uses dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) images to assess hip bone structure (2).

Objectives:

To identify whether HSA measurements help predict fracture in patients with PMR.

Methods:

Data were collected from June 2004 to October 2010 from PMR patients who had a DEXA scan at a District General Hospital. This included hip axis length (HAL), cross-sectional area (CSA), cross-sectional moment of inertia (CSMI), distance from centre of femoral head to centre of femoral neck (D1) and to inter-trochanteric line (D2), mean femoral neck diameter (D3), shaft angle (A) neck/shaft angle (Θ) and proximal femur strength index (SI) and distance from centre of mass of femoral neck to superior neck margin (Y). Fracture was predicted by a series of binomial logistic regression models, adjusted for age and sex. Odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were calculated.

Results:

714 patients with PMR were identified, 182 were male and the mean age was 70.5. HAL, CSMI, D1, D2, D3, A, Θ, SI and Y were not significant predictors of fracture in regression models; odds ratios are included in Table 1. CSA predicted fracture risk; odds ratio was 0.988 with a 95% confidence interval of 0.980-0.997. The AUC for the CSA regression model was 0.6739.

Table 1.

Odds ratios of fracture for different HSA parameters

HSA ParameterOdds Ratio (95% confidence interval)HAL1.008 (0.982 - 1.035)CSMI1.000 (0.999 - 1.000)CSA0.988 (0.980 - 0.997)D11.029 (0.972 - 1.089)D21.010 (0.981 - 1.040)D31.033 (0.962 - 1.109)Y1.087 (0.966 - 1.223)A0.983 (0.940 - 1.029)Θ1.007 (0.975 - 1.039)SI0.683 (0.406 - 1.150)

Conclusion:

These data suggest that CSA helps predict the risk of fracture in patients with PMR. HAL, CSMI, D1, D2, D3, A, Θ, SI and Y do not predict fracture risk. Limitations of the study are that it was retrospective and only studied patients who underwent DEXA scans. The study may have been underpowered to detect the impact of some HSA measurements on fracture risk.

References:

[1]Chatzigeorgiou C, Mackie SL. Comorbidity in polymyalgia rheumatica. Reumatismo. 2018; 70 1:35-43. Available from: http://eprints.whiterose.ac.uk/132109/\\.

[2]Kaptoge S, Beck TJ, Reeve J, Stone KL, Hillier TA, Cauley JA, et al. Prediction of Incident Hip Fracture Risk by Femur Geometry Variables Measured by Hip Structural Analysis in the Study of Osteoporotic Fractures. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research. 2008; 23 (12): 1892-1904. Available from: doi: https://doi.org/10.1359/jbmr.080802

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared.
AB0751 JUVENILE UVEİTİS: THE 3RD LEVEL EXPERIENCE
Authors: Tigrak S. N. , Çekiç Ş. , Yalcinbayir O. , Kilic S. S.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Uveitis is the inflammation of the uveal components of the eye (iris, choroid and retina) and is the third leading cause of blindness in the world. It is less common in children than adults. Young children are usually diagnosed late, as they cannot express their complaints.

Objectives:

With this work; We aimed to contribute to the literature by determining the underlying primary diagnosis and evaluating the treatment response in patients who were followed up in our clinic with a diagnosis of non-infectious uveitis, mostly juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

Methods:

93 patients under 18 years of age who were followed up with a diagnosis of non-infectious uveitis were included in the study. The data of the patients were scanned retrospectively. According to the last biomicroscopic examinations, the patients were classified as remission, inactive period and active disease. Clinical characteristics, laboratory findings, family history, drugs used during the disease and duration of treatment were examined.

Results:

The male to female ratio was 1,06 (48/45). The mean age at diagnosis of childhood uveitis was found to be 10±4.02. 49 Patients (52.6%) were diagnosed with idiopathic uveitis, 33 (33.5%)with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, 11 (11.7%) with Behçet’s, 2 (2.2%) with FMF. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis was the most common systemic disease in the patient group. The mean age of patients with uveitis to be diagnosed with rheumatological disease was 10.1±5.32. ANA test was positive in 30 (32.2%) patients. 23 (69.7%) of juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients were oligoartricular type. Anterior uveitis was present in 37 (39.8%) of the patients. Anterior uveitis was most common in the juvenile idiopathic arthritis cases. Of the patients with uveitis, 24 (25.8%) were intermediate, 11 (11.8%) were posterior, 21 (22.6%) were panuveitis. Anti-TNFα agents were administered to patients with unresponsiveness to immunosuppressive therapy and high risk of vision loss. Most used anti-TNFα agents were infliximab and adalimumab. Glaucoma, cataract, and posterior synechiae were common complications in the patients during follow-up.

Conclusion:

The most common systemic disease that cause noninfectious uveitis in children is juvenile idiopathic arthritis. In juvenile idiopathic arthritis, the most common involvement of the eye was the anterior segment, and it was thought that the location of the eye involvement could be useful in determining the underlying systemic disease. It is important to ensure regular eye examination in patients with rheumatologic symptoms.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared
AB0605 ACTIGRAPHY-BASED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY MONITORING IN PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS AND COMORBID FIBROMYALGIA
Authors: Dzekan O.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Low physical activity (PA) levels are common in patients with diseases associated with pain syndrome, such as osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee joints. Recent studies show that OA may be accompanied by concomitant fibromyalgia (FM) – a chronic pain syndrome associated with sedentary behavior [1]. As far as low PA levels are associated with poor quality of life and higher all-cause mortality, PA measurement in patients with knee OA and concomitant FM is of considerable interest [2,3].

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to investigate and compare physical activity measured by an actigraph in knee OA patients with and without comorbid FM.

Methods:

A total of 70 patients with painful knee osteoarthritis (OA) – 35 subjects - (30 females and 5 males) with concomitant fibromyalgia (FM) aged 59.8±14.9 (M±SD) years and 35 patients (30 females and 5 males) without concomitant FM aged 58.5±15.7 (M±SD) years were enrolled in the study. 35 healthy controls of the same age and gender underwent the same investigation. OA diagnosis was established according to ACR 1986 Osteoarthritis Knee Criteria. FM was diagnosed if both modified 2010 ACR diagnostic criteria and 2016 Fibromyalgia Diagnostic Criteria were met. All participants wore an actigraph (GT3X model accelerometer) on the wrist for the period of 5 working days. Average daily minutes in light, moderate and vigorous PA were calculated.

Results:

All OA patients with and without FM spent significantly less time in vigorous PA compared to controls. Obtained results did not indicate significant difference between time in vigorous activity in OA patients with and without FM. Patients with OA alone showed insignificant decrease in time in moderate activity in comparison with healthy subjects. OA patients with comorbid FM showed significantly less time in moderate activity compared to OA patients without FM and healthy individuals.

Conclusion:

Our study results revealed that patients with painful knee OA and comorbid FM have greater activity limitations than patients with painful knee OA alone and healthy individuals.

References:

[1]Mahgoub MY, Elnady BM, Abdelkader HS, Abdelhalem RA, HassanWA. Comorbidity of Fibromyalgia in Primary Knee Osteoarthritis: Potential Impact on Functional Status and Quality of Life. Open Access Rheumatol. 2020;12: 55—63.

[2]Ali K. Q. Al-Rubaye, Klara Johansson, Laith Alrubaiy. The association of health behavioral risk factors with quality of life in northern Sweden—A cross-sectional survey. J Gen Fam Med. 2020 Sep; 21(5): 167–177.

[3]GBD 2017 Mortality Collaborators. Global, regional, and national age-sex-specific mortality and life expectancy, 1950–2017: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017. Lancet. 2018;392(10159):1684–735. pmid:30496102

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared.
Strict glycaemic control in very low birthweight infants using a continuous glucose monitoring system: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Perri Alessandro , Tiberi Eloisa , Giordano Lucia , Sbordone Annamaria , Patti Maria Letizia , Iannotta Rossella , Pianini Teresa , Cota Francesco , Maggio Luca , Vento Giovanni
Published: May 2021

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of a strict glycaemic control protocol using a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in infants at high risk of dysglycaemia with the aim of reducing the number of dysglycaemic episodes.

Design

Randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Neonatal intensive care unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome.

Patients

All infants <1500 g fed on parental nutrition (PN) since birth were eligible. A total of 63 infants were eligible and 48 were randomised.

Intervention

All participants wore a CGM sensor and were randomised in two arms with alarms set at different cut-off values (2.61–10 mmol/L (47–180 mg/dL) vs 3.44–7.78 mmol/L (62–140 mg/dL)), representing the operative threshold requiring modulation of glucose infusion rate according to an innovative protocol.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was the number of severe dysglycaemic episodes (<2.61 mmol/L (47 mg/dL) or >10 mmol/L (180 mg/dL)) in the intervention group versus the control group, during the monitoring time.

Results

We enrolled 47 infants, with similar characteristics between the two arms. The number of dysglycaemic episodes and of infants with at least one episode of dysglycaemia was significantly lower in the intervention group (strict group): respectively, 1 (IQR 0–2) vs 3 (IQR 1–7); (p=0.005) and 12 (52%) vs 20 (83%); p=0.047. Infants managed using the strict protocol had a higher probability of having normal glycaemic values: relative risk 2.87 (95% CI 1.1 to 7.3). They spent more time in euglycaemia: 100% (IQR 97–100) vs 98% (IQR 94–99), p=0.036. The number needed to treat to avoid dysglycaemia episodes is 3.2 (95% CI 1.8 to 16.6).

Conclusion

We provide evidence that CGM, combined with a protocol for adjusting glucose infusion, can effectively reduce the episodes of dysglycaemia and increase the percentage of time spent in euglycaemia in very low birthweight infants receiving PN in the first week of life.
Preoperative rigid laryngoscopic examination and modified jaw thrust manoeuver during fibreoptic-assisted tracheal intubation for general anaesthesia
Authors: Kim Hyunjee , Jung Hoon , Hwang Seong Min , Yang Woo Seok
Published: May 2021

Preoperative laryngoscopic examination of the airway informs general anaesthesia management and planning. However, the same glottic opening view cannot always be obtained during direct laryngoscopy of anaesthetised patients. In this case report, a patient underwent preoperative rigid laryngoscopy due to medical history, and no problems were anticipated in performing tracheal intubation; however, the direct laryngoscopic view was a Grade 4 on the Cormack-Lehane Scale after anaesthesia induction. A jaw thrust manoeuvre to facilitate fibreoptic-assisted nasotracheal intubation was not feasible. In order to compensate, a modified method of jaw thrust was implemented, where both thumbs were placed on the floor of the patient’s mouth, leading to a successful result. Safe airway management should be implemented with proper planning based on a careful preoperative evaluation.
Bilateral renal artery stenosis due to fibromuscular dysplasia presenting as superimposed pre-eclampsia
Authors: Munasinghe Aruna , Wedisinghe Lilantha , Han Thin , Narayan Rajit
Published: May 2021

Renal vascular hypertension is a diagnosis that needs to be entertained in the setting of refractory, otherwise unexplained hypertension in pregnancy. Conclusive diagnosis of the condition is made by the use of angiography, which confers only a low, safe dose of radiation to the fetus, especially after the first trimester. Percutaneous angioplasty is effective in treating this condition and is best performed postnatally to avoid fetal exposure to ionising radiation. While it could be managed pharmacologically, more refractory cases in pregnancy may be offered interventional treatment.
Ectopic thoracic meningioma: a diagnostically challenging case
Authors: Salehi Mahan , Merve Ashirwad , Yancheva Slaveya , Kadlec Jakub
Published: May 2021

Whilst meningiomas are common neoplasms of the central nervous system; ectopic meningiomas are very rare. When they do occur, they are typically in the head and neck. Due to their rarity, they propose a diagnostic challenge with interesting pathological findings. To date, only seven ectopic meningiomas arising in the mediastinum have been reported in the literature. We aim to shift the focus on the diagnostic journey of this rare entity which involved various imaging and histopathological techniques. Our patient was successfully treated with no complications after four years through input from specialists and the multidisciplinary team.
Hypoglossal schwannoma in the submandibular region
Authors: Das Aparna , Ganesan Sivaraman , Raja Kalaiarasi , Alexander Arun
Published: May 2021

Hypoglossal nerve schwannomas originating extracranially and mimicking a submandibular salivary gland tumour are extremely rare. A 55-year-old woman presented with a painless, gradually increasing swelling in the right submandibular region for the past 1 year. Fine-needle aspiration cytology and contrast-enhanced CT of the swelling showed features of submandibular gland malignant lesion. Intraoperatively, the right submandibular gland with a hypoglossal nerve swelling was noticed. Right submandibular gland along with the hypoglossal swelling were excised with adequate margins. However, the postoperative histopathology was reported as hypoglossal nerve schwannoma and a normal salivary gland. Accurate preoperative diagnosis of hypoglossal schwannomas may be challenging. A high level of suspicion must be sought for in cases with unusual clinical presentations and imaging characteristics. Herein, we report a rare presentation of submandibular hypoglossal schwannoma along with its clinical features and its management.
Sinonasal polyposis complicated with extradural abscess and lateral rectus palsy
Authors: Chandran Aswin , Baskar Harithraa Cheniappangoundar , Singh Anup , Kumar Rajeev
Published: May 2021

Sinogenic intracranial and orbital complications are infrequent complications of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP), leading to potentially fatal intracranial and orbital sequelae. The mortality and morbidity associated with these complications remain high despite the widespread use of antibiotics. We report a patient with CRSwNP presenting with acute onset extradural empyema and sixth nerve palsy in whom the diagnosis was delayed, necessitating early surgical intervention. Our case shows that delay in management and underdiagnosis of sinusitis with nasal polyposis can lead to devastating complications. A high index of suspicion, early recognition of the clinical findings and radiological evaluation with contrast-enhanced CT of paranasal sinuses, orbit and brain are essential to rule out fatal complications associated with CRSwNP. Timely endoscopic intervention and the use of antibiotics can lead to good outcomes, even in complicated cases.