bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of CYP2B6 516G>T polymorphism on efavirenz/nevirapine toxicity. Implications on treatment outcomes
Authors: Maseng Monkgomotsi J. , Tawe Leabaneng , Thami Prisca K. , Moyo Sikhulile , Kasvosve Ishmael , Novitsky Vladimir , Essex Max , Russo Gianluca , Gaseitsiwe Simani , Paganotti Giacomo M.
Published: May 2022

The two non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs), efavirenz (EFV) and nevirapine (NVP), are currently the core antiretroviral drugs for treatment of HIV in sub-Saharan Africa including Botswana. The drugs are metabolized by Cytochrome P450 2B6 (CYP2B6) liver enzyme. The CYP2B6 gene that encodes for metabolism of these drugs is known to be highly polymorphic. One of the polymorphism in the CYP2B6 gene, 516G>T, particularly the 516T allele, is known to confer poor metabolism of EFV and NVP. This may lead to high levels of plasma drug concentrations and development of treatment toxicities, like central nervous system toxicities, and cutaneous and hepatic toxicities, for EFV and NVP, respectively. The CYP2B6 516G allele on the other hand is associated with an extensive metabolism of the two NNRTIs drugs. We sought to establish association between possible developments of NNRTIs toxicities with CYP2B6 516G>T variation in Botswana.

A total of 316 peripheral blood mononuclear cells samples were used in a retrospective view. All the samples were from participants on EFV/NVP-containing regimen with known toxicity output. TaqMan Real-Time PCR approach was applied for assessing CYP2B6 516 allele variation in cases with treatment toxicity and those without. Analysis was performed by chi-square statistics and logistic regression analysis.

The rate of poor metabolizers among participants with toxicity and those without toxicity was 18.4% and 15.1%, respectively. The CYP2B6 516 genotype distribution comparisons between the participants with toxicity and those without were not statistically different (chi-square = .326; P = .568).

CYP2B6 516 variation was not associated with NNRTI toxicity. No other factors were associated with toxicity when considering age, baseline body mass index, baseline CD4, baseline HIV viral load and adherence. The results were discussed in the context of all the studies done in Botswana to date.
Pancreatic safety of DPP-4 inhibitors in type 2 diabetes millitus
Authors: Yang Fan , Dong Youzi , Li Baohua , Ning Bobiao , Zhao Quanlin
Published: May 2022

Background:

Dipeptidyl-peptidase IV inhibitor (DPP-4i) is a common hypoglycemic medication in treating type 2 diabetes millitus. It has become widely utilized in clinical practice due to its ability to effectively manage blood glucose while posing a low risk of hypoglycemia and weight gain. However, there is no consensus on DPP-4i's pancreatic safety due to a paucity of clinical evidence. The safe event appears to be easily overlooked. This review aims to evaluate the pancreatic safety of DPP-4i in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus using the standard pairwise and network meta-analysis methods.

Methods:

MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials will be used to search for published literature on the pancreatic safety of DPP-4 inhibitors in type 2 diabetes millitus, and clinical trial registries will be used to look for unpublished trials. Two independent reviewers will screen literature for eligibility, extract available data, and assess the risk of bias. All divergences will be resolved after rechecking the source papers and further discussion among the reviewers with a complete consensus before inclusion. The risk of bias will be assessed by the Cochrane bias risk tool, and the quality of evidence will be interpreted by the GRADE Working Group approach. We will use STATA16.0 and WinBUGS1.4.3 for paired meta-analysis and Bayesian network meta-analysis.

Results:

This study will evaluate the pancreatic safety of DPP-4 inhibitors in type 2 diabetes millitus.

Conclusion:

This systematic review and network meta-analysis will evaluate the pancreatic safety of DPP-4i in patients with type 2 diabetes millitus. The findings of this study may supplement the evidence-based information on DPP-4i, improve existing understanding of this issue, and assist patients and clinicians in making better treatment decisions by raising their awareness of the problem.

Protocol registration number:

INPLASY202230014.
Fertility preservation techniques in cervical carcinoma
Authors: Silvestris Erica , Paradiso Angelo Virgilio , Minoia Carla , Daniele Antonella , Cormio Gennaro , Tinelli Raffaele , D’Oronzo Stella , Cafforio Paola , Loizzi Vera , Dellino Miriam
Published: May 2022

Astract

The usefulness of this review is to highlight how a fertility preservation (FP) approach is currently feasible for patients diagnosed with uterine cervical cancer. To this regard, a fertility sparing surgery has just overcome its traditional limits, gained acceptance within the major gynecologic oncology societies thanks to the ability to identify the “ideal” candidates to this conservative treatment. On the other hand, the use of other FPs for oocyte and ovarian cortex cryopreservation is still extremely debated. In fact, the existing risk of tumor spreading during oocyte retrieval necessary for oocyte cryostorage for patients’ candidates for neo-adjuvant therapy, as well as the potential hazard of cancer cell dissemination after ovarian tissue replacement in cases of non-squamous type cervical carcinomas should not be underestimated. Therefore, in consideration of the encountered limitations and the need to ensure adequate reproductive health for young uterine cervical cancer survivors, translational research regarding the FP has progressively collected innovative insights into the employment of stemness technology. In this context, the property of ovarian stem cells obtained from the ovarian cortex to generate functional oocytes in women could represent a promising therapeutic alternative to the current procedures for a novel and safer FP approach in cancer survivors.
Prognostic factors for acute posterior circulation cerebral infarction patients after endovascular mechanical thrombectomy
Authors: Gao Jun , Wen Changming , Sun Jun , Chen Di , Zhang Donghuan , Wang Ning , Liu Yifeng , Wang Jie , Zhang Baochao
Published: May 2022

This article was to analyze the factors influencing the prognosis of posterior circulation cerebral infarction (PCCI) patients, retrospectively.

One hundred forty five patients diagnosed with PCCI in Nanyang Central Hospital between June 25, 2016 and October 14, 2019 were included and underwent cerebral vascular mechanical thrombectomy. The clinical data of those patients were collected. The patients were followed up for 3 months to observe the prognostic efficacy and explore the influencing factors for poor prognosis. The potential prognostic factors for PCCI patients after emergency endovascular mechanical thrombectomy were analyzed by univariate and multivariable logistic regression. The thermodynamic diagram was drawn to explore the associations between the prognostic factors.

The risk of poor prognosis in PCCI patients receiving emergency endovascular mechanical thrombectomy was reduced by 0.552 time with every 1-point increase of the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT in posterior circulation score (odds ratio [OR] = 0.448, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.276–0.727). The risk of poor prognosis was increased by 0.827 time for each additional grade in the digital subtraction angiography-American Society of Intervention and Therapeutic Neuroradiology grading (OR = 1.827, 95% CI: 1.221–2.733, P = .003) and increased by 0.288 time for every 1-point increase in National Institutes of Health Stroke scale at 24 hours (OR = 1.288, 95% CI: 1.161–1.429). All P < .05.

Alberta Stroke Program Early CT in posterior circulation score, digital subtraction angiography-American Society of Intervention and Therapeutic Neuroradiology grading, National Institutes of Health Stroke scale score at 24 hours were factors affecting the prognosis of PCCI patients undergoing emergency endovascular mechanical thrombectomy, which might provide evidence for endovascular treatment of PCCI.
Effect of varicocelectomy on detailed sperm morphology parameters
Authors: Yaris Mehmet , Kilinc Rifat
Published: May 2022

Although many studies suggest that varicocelectomy leads to improvement in semen parameters and morphology, its clinical efficacy remains controversial. The detailed morphological parameters described in the World Health Organization guidelines are important in terms of showing the effect of microsurgical subinguinal varicocelectomy on morphological changes.

An observational, retrospective clinical cohort study was conducted with patients followed up from January 2018 to August 2021. This study included the data of 79 patients who met the criterion of undergoing at least 2 detailed morphological evaluations before and after surgery. All operations were performed by the same surgical team using the microsurgical subinguinal varicocelectomy technique.

The mean age of the patients was 30.25 years. Of the patients, 63 underwent left-sided varicocelectomy and 16 underwent bilateral surgery. The sperm analysis revealed statistically significant increases in sperm volume (P = .006), sperm concentration (P = .003), total sperm count (P = .001), progressive sperm motility (P < .001), and normal morphology (P < .001). In the detailed morphological evaluation, except for the elongated head anomaly (P = .037), no other statistically significant changes were found in relation to sperm head, tail, and neck anomalies after surgery.

This study makes an important contribution to the literature, being the first to use the subinguinal microscopic varicocelectomy technique in detailed morphological semen evaluation. We consider that detailed morphology examination in the selection and treatment of infertile patients may be useful in evaluating the efficacy of varicocelectomy.
Expression of S100A9 and KL-6 in common interstitial lung diseases
Authors: Lin Li , Zhao Yabin , Li Zhenhua , Li Yun , Wang Wei , Kang Jian , Wang Qiuyue
Published: May 2022

By evaluating S100 calcium binding protein A9 (S100A9) and Klebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6) expression in patients with 4 common interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), we aimed to investigate whether S100A9 or KL-6 can be of any value in the differential diagnosis of these ILDs and simultaneously signal the disease progression.

We collected the data of patients diagnosed with the 4 ILDs and underwent fiber-optic bronchoscopy and BAL in the First Affiliated Hospital, China Medical University from January 2012 to December 2020. The data related to BGA, C-reactive protein, pulmonary function test, total number and fraction of cells, T lymphocyte subsets in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and the expression of S100A9 and KL-6 in BALF and serum were collected. We analyzed, whether S100A9 or KL-6 could serve as a biomarker for differential diagnosis between the 4 common ILDs; whether the levels of S100A9 and KL-6 correlated with each other; whether they were correlated with other clinical parameters and disease severity.

This study included 98 patients, 37 patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), 12 with hypersensitivity pneumonitis, 13 with connective tissue disease-associated ILD, and 36 with sarcoidosis (SAR): stage I (18), stage II (9), stage III (5), and stage IV (4). The expression of KL-6 in BALF was significantly higher in IPF patients than other 3 groups (all P-value < .05). However, there was no significant difference in the levels of S100A9 in BALF and serum between the 4 groups (P-value > .05). The levels of S100A9 in BALF of IPF patients was positively and significantly correlated with KL-6 expression and the percentage of neutrophils in BALF (P-value < .05). Along with the stage increase of SAR patients, the level of S100A9 in BALF gradually increased, which was negatively and significantly correlated with the forced vital capacity/predicted, carbon monoxide diffusing capacity/predicted%, and PaO2 (all P-value < .05).

The expression of KL-6 in BALF can be used as a biomarker to differentiate IPF from the other 3 common ILDs. While, this was not the case with expression of S100A9 in BALF and serum. However, the expression S100A9 in BALF is useful to indicate the progression of SAR. Thus, simultaneous measurement of KL-6 and S100A9 levels in BALF makes more sense in differential diagnosing of the 4 common ILDS.
The correlation between middle schoolchildren allergic symptoms and airborne particle season
Authors: Al-Nesf Maryam Ali , Gharbi Dorra , Mobayed Hassan M. , Mohammed Ali Ramzy , Dason Blessing Reena , Adeli Mehdi , Tuffaha Amjad , Sattar Hisham A. , Trigo Maria del Mar
Published: May 2022

Limited studies correlate allergic symptoms and associated outdoor biological particle exposure among schoolchildren globally.

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the seasonality of symptoms of allergic diseases among middle schoolchildren and the annual variation of airborne pollen and fungal spore in a hot and humid geographical region (Qatar).

During November 2017 to January 2018, a self-reported study of middle schoolchildren living in the Doha capital city of Qatar was conducted, and data gathered were evaluated in relation to the collected monthly pollen and fungal spores. Participants’ data were collected by conducting a survey based on a modified questionnaire adopted from the International Study of Asthma and Allergy in Childhood (ISAAC). The airborne pollen and fungal spore in Doha's atmosphere were extracted from the Doha aerobiology project (2017–2020).

Among the 1000 distributed questionnaires, 100 were excluded due to significant missing data and 644 middle schoolchildren living in Doha city responded and were included in the final analysis. The symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR) pattern among the responders with positive symptoms were strongly linked with the higher airborne fungal spore incidence during the month of November. Out of 331 students with positive symptoms, the prevalence of AR, lifetime wheeze, and eczema was 62.8%, 28.1%, and 26.6%, respectively. Asthma was significantly higher in Qatari (39.8%) compared to non-Qatari (26.7%) middle schoolchildren (P = .02).

Outdoor aeroallergen may be a contributing factor in addition to other environmental and genetic predisposing factors for childhood atopic diseases in the prevalence rate of allergic symptoms among middle schoolchildren in the peninsula of Qatar.
Repeated intracerebral hemorrhage after craniotomy for a distal middle cerebral artery aneurysm
Authors: Feng Yan , Ji MingJun , Ren Yufeng , Liu Ziqian , Xin Zhenxue , Wang Liqun
Published: May 2022

Rationale:

Distal middle cerebral artery aneurysms are very rare in the clinic, and craniotomy clipping is the better treatment after diagnosis. However, patients can also have repeated acute intracerebral hemorrhage after craniotomy for aneurysm, which has not been previously reported.

Patient concerns:

A 24-year-old male patient was admitted to our hospital with headache, nausea, and vomiting. He was well before, had no family history of cerebrovascular disease or hypertension, and had no history of trauma.

Diagnoses:

Computer tomography and digital subtraction angiography of the brain revealed intracranial hematoma and an aneurysm located at the M4 segment of the left middle cerebral artery.

Interventions:

The patient underwent 2 surgeries to treat the aneurysm, followed by 2 operations for acute cerebral hemorrhage.

Outcomes:

Despite repeated surgical treatments, the patient had a poor prognosis and eventually died of respiratory and circulatory failure after repeated brain bleeding.

Lessons:

Briefly, it is of great importance to consider the risk factors of cerebral hemorrhage, and provide individualized treatment and psychological counseling for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage.
Validation of a new Equinometer device for measuring ankle range of motion in patients with cerebral palsy
Authors: Horsch Axel , Kleiber Saskia , Ghandour Maher , Klotz Matthias Christoph Michael , Hetto Pit , Tsitlakidis Stefanos , Alimusaj Merkur , Götze Marco
Published: May 2022

The goniometer is the gold-standard measurement tool of ankle range of motion (ROM). However, several studies have questioned its inter- and intra-rater reliability. Therefore, we conducted this validation study to assess the reliability of a different tool, named Equinometer, as a measurement device of ankle ROM in addition to comparing the reproducibility of their results.

Sixteen healthy individuals were included. They underwent both goniometer and Equinometer measurements in knee extension and 90° knee flexion (Silfverskjöld Test). Three raters reported the values of dorsiflexion (DF) and plantarflexion (PF) in each session using both measurement tools. Intra-rater reliability was assessed between 2 raters on another study group of 24 participants. Intraclass correlation coefficients were used to determine the reliability of the used device.

The age of study subjects ranged from 22 to 85 years. Fifty percent were males, and the right ankle joint was the most examined side (68.75%). In terms of DF and PF during knee extension and flexion, our analysis revealed that the measurements recorded by the Equinometer were equivalent to the goniometer. Of note, the intra-rater reliability of the Equinometer was excellent for both DF and PF assessment during both knee flexion and extension (Intraclass correlation coefficient ranged from 0.90 to 0.98), with minimal mean differences from goniometer measurements. Subgroup analysis based on age did not reveal any significant differences (P > .05).

Given the high intra-rater correlations of the Equinometer, we suggest that it is reliable and precise in recording ankle ROM in outpatient clinics, particularly to obtain reproductive, comparable and unbiased data from different observers.
Teaching Family Caregivers to Assist Safely with Mobility
Authors: Powell-Cope Gail , Pippins Karla M. , Young Heather M.
Published: May 2022

This article is part of a series, Supporting Family Caregivers: No Longer Home Alone, published in collaboration with the AARP Public Policy Institute. Results of focus groups, conducted as part of the AARP Public Policy Institute's No Longer Home Alone video project, supported evidence that family caregivers aren't given the information they need to manage the complex care regimens of family members. This series of articles and accompanying videos aims to help nurses provide caregivers with the tools they need to manage their family member's health care at home.

The articles in this new installment of the series explain principles for promoting safe mobility that nurses should reinforce with family caregivers. Each article also includes an informational tear sheet—Information for Family Caregivers—that contains links to instructional videos. To use this series, nurses should read the article first, so they understand how best to help family caregivers, and then encourage the caregivers to watch the videos and ask questions. For additional information, see Resources for Nurses.
ETS-related Gene (ERG) is Differentially Expressed in Dermatofibroma (Fibrous Histiocytoma) as Compared With Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans and Hypertrophic Scars: A Pilot Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: Hengy Meredith , Veenstra Jesse , Perry Kyle , Ozog David M. , Friedman Ben J.
Published: May 2022

Immunohistochemical staining can be of great utility in differentiating various cutaneous spindle cell neoplasms, particularly when the histomorphologic appearance of the lesions is inconclusive. Nuclear staining for ETS-related gene (ERG), a highly sensitive endothelial cell marker, has seldom been studied in the context of cutaneous spindle cell neoplasms. Little is known about its specificity for vascular differentiation. In this pilot study, immunohistochemical analysis for ERG was performed on 15 dermatofibromas (DF), 10 keloids, and 9 dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) tumors. Consistent nuclear expression of ERG was found in DF [100% (15/15) of the lesions demonstrated >50% labeling of tumor cells with moderate to strong intensity]. However, ERG expression was largely absent in DFSP [89% (8/9) of the lesions demonstrating <50% labeling staining, generally of mild intensity] and hypertrophic scars-keloids [80% (8/10) without expression]. On the basis of the results of this pilot study, immunohistochemical staining for ERG may prove useful in helping to differentiate DF from DFSP and hypertrophic scars in the context of partial biopsy sampling. If replicated in a larger number of samples, this finding could mitigate the use of costly sequencing panels and potentially avoid unnecessary reexcisions in certain contexts.
Trends Over 2 Decades in Adolescent Suicidal and Recreational Ingestions of Over-the-Counter Coricidin Preparations
Authors: Sheridan David C. , Marshall Rebecca , Lin Amber , Hughes Adrienne , Horowitz B. Zane
Published: May 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess national trends in recreational and suicidal ingestions of over-the-counter cough preparations that contain Coricidin.

Methods

Using the American Association of Poison Control Center's National Poison Data System, we obtained data from 2004 to 2017 on patients aged 13 to 19 years with an ingestion of “Coricidin.” We examined trends over time overall and ingestion intent (recreational vs suicidal) using linear regression. We compared patient characteristics, substances ingested, clinical effects and therapies, and outcomes by suicidal versus misuse or recreational intention.

Results

An initial search with the inclusion criteria found 19,213 calls that matched study inclusion criteria. On average, there was a yearly linear increase of 180.0 (95% confidence interval [CI], 136.6–223.3; P < 0.01) ingestions per year. Within suicide ingestions, there was an average yearly increase of 97.9 (95% CI, 66.9–128.9; P < 0.01) ingestions, and within misuse/recreational ingestions, there was an average yearly increase of 82.1 (95% CI, 60.3–103.9; P < 0.01) ingestions. The most common clinical effect was tachycardia, which occurred in 42.4% of ingestions. Altered mental status, mydriasis, and ataxia were all more common in misuse/recreational ingestions. Suicidal ingestions resulted in more hospital admissions and need for medical treatment. Recreational-use coded calls peaked in 2013, whereas calls coded for suicide attempts have continued to rise dramatically, with a 50% increase in the 14-year study period.

Conclusion

Combination Coricidin products are a major source of morbidity in adolescents. Targeted preventive measures in primary care offices or larger-scale policy/legislative efforts may be helpful to address this.
Survey About Second-Line Agents for Pediatric Convulsive Status Epilepticus
Authors: Tyson Marguerite , Trenear Rebecca , Skellett Sophie , Maconochie Ian , Mullen Niall
Published: May 2022

Background

Convulsive status epilepticus (CSE) is the most common neurological emergency in children. It is a frequent cause of admission to pediatric intensive care units and is associated with significant short- and long-term morbidity. Management of CSE is a step-wise approach: first-line antiseizure agents (typically benzodiazepines) followed by a second-line agent before deeper anesthesia usually accompanied by intubation and ventilation. Current guidelines in the United Kingdom specify phenytoin as the second-line agent of choice for CSE. Two recent large international randomized controlled trials compared the efficacy of phenytoin with that of another second-line agent levetiracetam. Both studies found levetiracetam to be noninferior to phenytoin.

Methods

We conducted an online survey of clinicians across 67 emergency departments that treat children and 29 pediatric intensive care units in the United Kingdom and Ireland to assess their current and preferred second-line agents for treating pediatric CSE in light of recently published evidence. The survey was distributed via the Pediatric Emergency Research in United Kingdom and Ireland network and the Pediatric Critical Care Society.

Results

We found that although most clinicians use phenytoin, as per current guidelines, they seek greater flexibility in choice of second-line agent, with levetiracetam being the preferred alternative to phenytoin.

Conclusions

To facilitate use of levetiracetam for treatment of CSE in pediatrics, it should be included as a second-line agent in addition to phenytoin in the next update of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and other United Kingdom clinical guidelines.
Ovarian Malignant Mixed Germ Cell Tumor Composed Mainly of a Polyembryoma Pattern With Vasculogenic Mesenchymal Tumor Components
Authors: Kouchi Yusuke , Komatsu Shugo , Harada Sakurako , Shinomiya Yoshiki , Ikeda Jun-ichiro , Kishimoto Takashi
Published: May 2022

Ovarian germ cell tumors composed of numerous well-formed embryonal bodies have been described as exhibiting a “polyembryoma pattern.” In addition, some germ cell tumors are occasionally concomitant with neoplastic vascular proliferation. These include angiosarcomas and the recently reported mediastinal vasculogenic mesenchymal tumors. A 9-yr-old Japanese girl underwent surgery for a right ovarian tumor. Histologically, the polyembryoma pattern, nongestational choriocarcinoma, and vasculogenic lesions characterized by a neoplastic repetition of embryonic vasculogenesis have been intermingled. The polyembryoma pattern consisted of numerous complete and incomplete embryonal bodies and glandular structures resembling adult-type and fetal-type intestines. Vasculogenic lesions were composed of variously developed neoplastic vessels within the myxomatous stroma, which extended well beyond one low-power (40×) microscopic field. We concluded that the vasculogenic lesion in our case was the ovarian counterpart of the mediastinal vasculogenic mesenchymal tumor. After the surgery, the patient was administered adjuvant chemotherapy and was alive with no evidence of recurrence or other malignancy at 28 mo postsurgery.
The Presence of the Autophagic Markers LC3B and Sequestosome 1/p62 in the Hydatidiform Mole
Authors: Karpathiou Georgia , Dridi Maroa , Papoudou-Bai Alexandra , Perard Marine , Clemenson Alix , Chauleur Celine , Peoc’h Michel
Published: May 2022

Autophagy is implicated in normal pregnancy and various pathologic pregnancy conditions. Its presence in hydatidiform moles (HM) is unknown. We immunohistochemically studied 36 HM for LC3B and p62 to precisely determine their expression in the decidua, endometrium, and villi. Nineteen nonmolar pregnancies were also studied. LC3B was found in almost half of the villi and p62 was found in almost all villi. LC3B expression was significantly higher in complete HM than in partial HM. LC3B showed different expression patterns in trophoblast layers. LC3B and p62 expression was higher in molar than nonmolar pregnancies. Autophagic markers are present in HM and their expression differs between complete and partial moles.
Development of a finite element–based model for the thermal assessment of transtibial prosthetic liners
Authors: McCorkle Jazmin O. , McCullough Matthew B.A.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Thermal discomfort because of elevated residual limb skin temperatures and/or perspiration within the prosthetic socket is frequently reported among people with amputation.

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of the thermal conductivity characteristics of prosthetic liners on transtibial prosthesis heat dissipation, following postactivity rest.

Study design:

Time-dependent heat transfer study in solids using finite element analysis.

Methods:

A three-dimensional model of the transtibial residual limb was developed by simplifying the geometry to tapered, layered cylinders. Four prosthetic socket liners of varying thermal conductivities were then added to the exterior, and the final surface temperatures of the skin layer were analyzed.

Results:

Warmer temperatures were observed near regions with greater muscle volume; cooler temperatures were observed at the distal end of the simplified model. The final residual limb skin temperatures for each prosthetic liner were found to be significantly different from one another. Overall, the average final surface temperatures of the skin layer at the end of postactivity rest was 3.85°C ± 0.12°C greater than the initial surface temperatures of skin layer.

Conclusions:

None of the prosthetic liners made a significant reduction in residual limb skin temperatures after activity. The results indicate that the focus should be on other material properties of the prosthetic liners or active cooling systems.
The Kenevo microprocessor-controlled prosthetic knee compared with non–microprocessor-controlled knees in individuals older than 65 years in Sweden: A cost-effectiveness and budget-impact analysis
Authors: Kuhlmann Alexander , Hagberg Kerstin , Kamrad Ilka , Ramstrand Nerrolyn , Seidinger Susanne , Berg Hans
Published: May 2022

Background:

Growing evidence suggests that individuals with transfemoral amputation or knee disarticulation using a prosthesis equipped with a microprocessor-controlled knee (MPK) benefit from enhanced mobility and safety, including less falls. In elderly individuals, high mortality rates are assumed to reduce the expected useful life of MPKs, and this raises concerns regarding their economic effectiveness.

Objective:

To investigate the cost-effectiveness and budget impact of the Kenevo/MPK (Ottobock, Germany) compared with non–microprocessor-controlled knees (NMPKs) in people older than 65 years at the time of transfemoral amputation/knee disarticulation, from a Swedish payer’s perspective.

Methods:

A decision-analytic model was developed to conduct the economic analysis of the Kenevo/MPK. Model parameters were derived from Swedish databases and published literature. Univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to explore parameter uncertainty.

Results:

Compared with NMPKs, the Kenevo/MPK reduced the frequency of hospitalizations by 137 per 1,000 person years while the frequency of fatal falls was reduced by 19 per 1,000 person-years in the simulation. Over a 25-year time horizon, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was EUR11,369 per quality-adjusted life year. The probability of the MPK being cost-effective at a threshold of EUR40,000 per quality-adjusted life year was 99%. The 5-year budget impact model predicted an increase in payer expenditure of EUR1.76 million if all new patients received a Kenevo/MPK, and 50% of current NMPK users switched to the MPK.

Conclusions:

Results of the modeling suggest that the Kenevo/MPK is likely to be cost-effective for elderly individuals, primarily because of a reduction in falls.
EEG and MRI Abnormalities in Patients With Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures
Authors: Tavakoli Yaraki Pouyan , Yu Yeyao J. , AlKhateeb Mashael , Arevalo Astrada Miguel A. , Lapalme-Remis Samuel , Mirsattari Seyed M.
Published: May 2022

Objective:

To compare the rate of EEG and MRI abnormalities in psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) patients with and without suspected epilepsy. Patients were also compared in terms of their demographic and clinical profiles.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of 271 newly diagnosed PNES patients admitted to the epilepsy monitoring unit between May 2000 and April 2008, with follow-up clinical data collected until September 2015.

Results:

One hundred ninety-four patients were determined to have PNES alone, 16 PNES plus possible epilepsy, 14 PNES plus probable epilepsy, and 47 PNES plus confirmed epilepsy. Fifty-seven of the 77 patients (74.0%) with possible, probable, or definite epilepsy exhibited epileptiform activity on EEG, versus only 16 of the 194 patients (8.2%) in whom epilepsy was excluded. Twenty-four of these 194 patients (12.4%) had MRI abnormalities. Three of 38 patients (7.9%) with both EEG and MRI abnormalities were confirmed not to have epilepsy. In PNES patients with EEG or MRI abnormalities compared with those without, patients with abnormalities were more likely to have epilepsy risk factors, such as central nervous system structural abnormalities, and less likely to report minor head trauma. The presence of EEG abnormalities in PNES-only patients did not influence antiseizure medication reduction, whereas those with MRI abnormalities were less likely to have their antiseizure medications reduced.

Conclusions:

Psychogenic nonepileptic seizure patients without MRI or EEG abnormalities are less likely to have associated epilepsy, risk factors for epilepsy, and had different demographic profiles. There is a higher-than-expected level of EEG and MRI abnormalities in PNES patients without epilepsy.
Analysis of Intraoperative Motor Evoked Potential Changes and Surgical Interventions in 513 Pediatric Spine Surgeries
Authors: Segura Martín José , Talarico María Elena , Miranda Miguel Ángel , Noel Mariano Augusto
Published: May 2022

Purpose:

(1) To determine probabilities of immediate postoperative new motor deficits after no, reversible, and irreversible motor evoked potentials (MEP) deteriorations and (2) to calculate the same outcome considering whether MEP deteriorations were followed by surgical interventions in the absence of confounding factors.

Methods:

We analyzed MEPs from 513 surgeries. Four-limb MEPs were evoked by transcranial electrical stimulation. Baseline recordings were obtained before skin incision and updated before instrumentation. Motor evoked potentials deteriorations were considered significant whenever they showed a persistent, reversible, or irreversible amplitude decrease of >80% of the baseline values.

Results:

Nine patients showed postoperative new motor deficits. Probabilities of postoperative new motor deficits were null, 2.8%, and 36.8% with no, reversible, and irreversible MEP deteriorations, respectively. The risk of immediate postoperative new motor deficits was significantly lower (P = 0.0002) in reversible MEP compared with irreversible MEP deteriorations. In patients showing reversible/irreversible MEP deteriorations in the absence of confounding factors, surgical interventions compared with nonsurgical interventions significantly decreased the risk of immediate postoperative new motor deficits (P = 0.0216).

Conclusions:

This study shows that probabilities of immediate postoperative new motor deficits increase with the severity of intraoperative MEP changes. In addition, our results support the value of surgical interventions triggered by MEP deteriorations to reduce postoperative adverse motor outcomes.
Nocardioides coralli sp. nov., an actinobacterium isolated from stony coral in the South China Sea
Authors: Shi Song-Biao , Cui Lin-Qing , Zeng Qi , Long Li-Juan , Tian Xin-Peng
Published: May 2022

A Gram-stain-positive, aerobic, non-pigmented and non-motile actinobacterium, designated strain SCSIO 67246T, was isolated from a stony coral sample collected from the Sanya sea area, Hainan province, China. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain SCSIO 67246T shared the highest similarities with

Nocardioides rotundus

MCCC 1A10561T (96.5 %) and

Nocardioides sonneratiae

KCTC 39565T (96.1%). The novel strain grew at 15–37 °C, at pH 5.0–10.0 and in the presence of 0–10 % (w/v) NaCl. The genome length of strain SCSIO 67246T was 3.52 Mbp with a DNA G+C content of 72.0 mol% and 3397 protein-coding genes. The novel strain showed an average nucleotide identity value of 76.5 % and a digital DNA–DNA hybridization value of 20.1 % with

N. rotundus

MCCC 1A10561T. Strain SCSIO 67246T contained MK-8(H4) as the major menaquinone. The major polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and five phospholipids. The major cellular fatty acids were iso-C16 : 0, C17 : 1
ω8c and summed feature 9 (iso-C17 : 1
ω9c/10-methyl C16 : 0). ll-2,6-Diaminopimelic acid was the diagnostic diamino acid. The whole-cell sugars were galactose, glucose and ribose. Based on this polyphasic taxonomic study, strain SCSIO 67246T represents a novel species of the genus

Nocardioides

, for which the name Nocardioides coralli sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SCSIO 67246T (=MCCC 1K06251T=KCTC 49719T).
Hyunsoonleella ulvae sp. nov., isolated from algae in China
Authors: Wang Han , Liang Yumei , Li Haibin , Li Jin , Hu Zhong
Published: May 2022

A novel Gram-stain-negative, aerobic, non-motile, rod-shaped and yellow-pigmented bacterial strain, designated HU1-3T, was isolated from Ulva in China. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strain HU1-3T represented a member of the genus

Hyunsoonleella

within the family

Flavobacteriaceae

, phylum

Bacteroidota

, and showed the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to

Hyunsoonleella flava

T58T (97.6 %). Strain HU1-3T grew at 15–35 °C (optimum, 25–30 °C), pH 6.0–8.0 (optimum, pH 7.0) and in the presence of 2–6 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 2–4 %). The draft genome of strain HU1-3T comprised 4.1 Mbp with a G+C content of 33.9mol%. Compared with the reference strain

Hyunsoonleella jejuensis

CNU004T, the average nucleotide identity value of strain HU1-3T was 77.9 %. The major fatty acids (>10 % of the total) were iso-C15 : 0, iso G-C15 : 1 and iso-C17 : 0 3-OH. MK-6 was the major respiratory quinone. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, two unidentified aminolipids, and three unknown polar lipids. Many genes that encode glycoside hydrolases (e.g. glucosidase, xylosidase, mannosidase, galactosidase, etc.) were annotated in the genome of strain HU1-3T, which indicated that it might have the ability to degrade various kinds of polysaccharides. Given the phylogenetic, chemotaxonomic, biochemical and genomic data, strain HU1-3T is considered to represent a novel species of the genus

Hyunsoonleella

, for which the name Hyunsoonleella ulvae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is HU1-3T (=KCTC 82511T=MCCC 1K05798T).
Polar lipid characterization and description of Chryseobacterium capnotolerans sp. nov., isolated from high CO2-containing atmosphere and emended descriptions of the genus Chryseobacterium, and the species C. balustinum, C. daecheongense, C. formosense, C. gleum, C. indologenes, C. joostei, C. scophthalmum and C. ureilyticum
Authors: Heidler von Heilborn David , Nover Lena-Luisa , Weber Mareike , Hölzl Georg , Gisch Nicolas , Waldhans Claudia , Mittler Maureen , Kreyenschmidt Judith , Woehle Christian , Hüttel Bruno , Lipski André
Published: May 2022

Modified atmosphere (MA) packaging plays an important role in improving food quality and safety. By using different gas mixtures and packaging materials the shelf life of fresh produce can significantly be increased. A Gram-negative-staining, rod-shaped, orange-pigmented strain DH-B6T, has been isolated from MA packed raw pork sausage (20% CO2, 80% O2). The strain produced biofilms and showed growth at high CO2levels of up to 40%. Complete 16S rRNA gene and whole-genome sequences revealed that strain DH-B6Tbelongs to the genusChryseobacterium, being closely related to strainChryseobacterium indologenesDSM 16777T(98.4%), followed byChryseobacterium gleumNCTC11432T(98.3%) andChryseobacterium lactisKC1864T(98.2%). Average nucleotide identity value between DH-B6TandC. indologenesDSM 16777Twas 81.1% and digital DNA–DNA hybridisation was 24.9%, respectively. The DNA G+C content was 35.51 mol%. Chemotaxonomical analysis revealed the presence of the rare glycine lipid cytolipin, the serine-glycine lipid flavolipin and the sulfonolipid sulfobacin A, as well as phosphatidylethanolamine, monohexosyldiacylglycerol and ornithine lipid, including the hydroxylated forms. Major fatty acids were iC15 : 0(50.7%) and iC17 : 1cis 9 (28.7%), followed by iC15 : 02-OH (7.0%) and iC17 : 03-OH (6.2%). The isolated strain contained MK-6 as the only respiratory quinone and flexirubin-like pigments were detected as the major pigments. Based on the phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic characteristics, the strain DH-B6T(=DSM 110542T=LMG 31915T) represents a novel species of the genusChryseobacterium, for which the nameChryseobacterium capnotoleranssp. nov. is proposed. Emended descriptions of the genusChryseobacteriumand eight species of this genus based on polar lipid characterisation are also proposed.
The antiviral role of NF-κB-mediated immune responses and their antagonism by viruses in insects
Authors: Cheung Yin P. , Park Sohyun , Pagtalunan Justine , Maringer Kevin
Published: May 2022

The antiviral role of innate immune responses mediated by the NF-κB family of transcription factors is well established in vertebrates but was for a long time less clear in insects. Insects encode two canonical NF-κB pathways, the Toll and Imd (‘immunodeficiency’) pathways, which are best characterised for their role in antibacterial and antifungal defence. An increasing body of evidence has also implicated NF-κB-mediated innate immunity in antiviral responses against some, but not all, viruses. Specific pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and molecular events leading to NF-κB activation by viral pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) have been elucidated for a number of viruses and insect species. Particularly interesting are recent findings indicating that the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway detects viral RNA to activate NF-κB-regulated gene expression. We summarise the literature on virus-NF-κB pathway interactions across the class Insecta, with a focus on the dipterans Drosophila melanogaster and Aedes aegypti. We discuss potential reasons for differences observed between different virus-host combinations, and highlight similarities and differences between cGAS-STING signalling in insects versus vertebrates. Finally, we summarise the increasing number of known molecular mechanisms by which viruses antagonise NF-κB responses, which suggest that NF-κB-mediated immunity exerts strong evolutionary pressures on viruses. These developments in our understanding of insect antiviral immunity have relevance to the large number of insect species that impact on humans through their transmission of human, livestock and plant diseases, exploitation as biotechnology platforms, and role as parasites, pollinators, livestock and pests.
Major Depressive Disorder as a risk factor of neuropsychiatric symptoms in normal and pathological aging, and associations with cognitive performances
Authors: Lucas Ronat ,   NACC Group, Alexandru Hanganu
Published: May 2022

Objectives

The diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is based on the DSM-V criteria and is established by a clinician. It allows quantifying depression based on clinical criteria. As such, MDD differs from other types of depressions quantified based on subjective scales. Here, we evaluated the MDD risk factor on other neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) as well as MDD association with cognitive performance in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and Healthy Controls (CH).

Participants

Data of 208 patients with AD, 291 patients with MCI and 647 HC was extracted from the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center database. Each included participant was assessed by a physician for the MDD criteria, underwent an evaluation of NPS using the NeuroPsychiatric Inventory, and a comprehensive cognitive assessment. Participants were classified in those with- and without MDD. We performed logistic regression and a MANCOVA models respectively with NPS and cognitive performance as variables of interest and MDD as fixed factors within each group. The MANCOVA was controlled for the effects of age, sex, and education.

Results

MDD increased the risk for psychotic, affective and behavioral NPS in MCI, and affective/behavioral NPS in CH and AD. Also, MCI with MDD had lower performance on selective attention and mental flexibility.

Conclusions

MDD seems to increase the probability for a higher prevalence of NPS in all groups (CN, MCI and AD). This might suggest that early treatment of MDD could impact future neuropsychiatric symptomatology and cognitive performance.
Genetic effects on the timing of parturition and links to fetal birth weight
Authors: Sole-Navais Pol , Flatley Christopher , Steinthorsdottir Valgerdur , Vaudel Marc , Juodakis Julius , Chen Jing , Laisk Triin , LaBella Abigail L. , Westergaard David , Bacelis Jonas , Brumpton Ben , Skotte Line , Borges Maria C. , Helgeland Øyvind , Mahajan Anubha , Wielscher Matthias , Lin Frederick , Briggs Catherine , Wang Carol A. , Moen Gunn-Helen , Beaumont Robin N. , Bradfield Jonathan P. , Abraham Abin , Thorleifsson Gudmar , Gabrielsen Maiken E. , Ostrowski Sisse R. , Modzelewska Dominika , Nohr Ellen A. , Hypponen Elina , Srivastava Amit , Talbot Octavious , Allard Catherine , Williams Scott M. , Menon Ramkumar , Shields Beverley M. , Sveinbjornsson Gardar , Xu Huan , Melbye Mads , William Lowe Jr , Bouchard Luigi , Oken Emily , Pedersen Ole B. , Gudbjartsson Daniel F. , Erikstrup Christian , Sørensen Erik ,   Early Growth Genetics Consortium,   Estonian Biobank Research Team,   Danish Blood Donor Study Genomic Consortium, Lie Rolv T. , Teramo Kari , Hallman Mikko , Juliusdottir Thorhildur , Hakonarson Hakon , Ullum Henrik , Hattersley Andrew T. , Sletner Line , Merialdi Mario , Rifas-Shiman Sheryl , Steingrimsdottir Thora , Scholtens Denise , Power Christine , West Jane , Nyegaard Mette , Capra John A. , Skogholt Anne H. , Magnus Per , Andreassen Ole A. , Thorsteinsdottir Unnur , Grant Struan F.A. , Qvigstad Elisabeth , Pennell Craig E. , Hivert Marie-France , Hayes Geoffrey M. , Jarvelin Marjo-Riitta , McCarthy Mark I. , Lawlor Deborah A. , Nielsen Henriette S. , Mägi Reedik , Rokas Antonis , Hveem Kristian , Stefansson Kari , Feenstra Bjarke , Njolstad Pål , Muglia Louis J. , Freathy Rachel M. , Johanson Stefan , Zhang Ge , Jacobsson Bo
Published: May 2022

The timing of parturition is crucial for neonatal survival and infant health. Yet, its genetic basis remains largely unresolved. We present a maternal genome-wide meta-analysis of gestational duration (n = 195,555), identifying 22 associated loci (24 independent variants) and an enrichment in genes differentially expressed during labor. A meta-analysis of preterm delivery (cases = 18,797, controls = 260,246) revealed 6 associated loci, and large genetic similarities with gestational duration. Analysis of the parental transmitted and non-transmitted alleles (n = 136,833) shows that 15 of the gestational duration genetic variants act through the maternal genome, while seven act both through the maternal and fetal, and two act only via the fetal genome. Finally, the maternal effects on gestational duration show signs of antagonistic pleiotropy with the fetal effects on birth weight: maternal alleles that increase gestational duration have negative fetal effects on birth weight.