bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing neoadjuvant chemotherapy with or without radiation therapy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: National Cancer Database cohort analysis
Authors: Oba Atsushi , Wu Y H Andrew , Colborn Kathryn L , Karam Sana D , Meguid Cheryl , Al-Musawi Mohammed H , Bao Quoc R , Gleisner Ana L , Ahrendt Steven , Schulick Richard D , Del Chiaro Marco
Published: January 2022

Background

Neoadjuvant treatment is important for improving the rate of R0 surgical resection and overall survival outcome in treating patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, the true efficacy of radiotherapy (RT) for neoadjuvant treatment of PDAC is uncertain. This retrospective study evaluated the treatment outcome of neoadjuvant RT in the treatment of PDAC.

Methods

Collected from the National Cancer Database, information on patients with PDAC who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and pancreatectomy between 2010 to 2016 was used in this study. Short- and long-term outcomes were compared between patients who received neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) and NAC.

Results

The study included 6936 patients, of whom 3185 received NACRT and 3751 NAC. The groups showed no difference in overall survival (NACRT 16.1 months versus NAC 17.4 months; P = 0.054). NACRT is associated with more frequent margin negative resection (86.1 versus 80.0 per cent; P < 0.001) but a more unfavourable 90-day mortality than NAC (6.4 versus 3.6 per cent; P < 0.001). The odds of 90-day mortality were higher in the radiotherapy group (odds ratio 1.81; P < 0.001), even after adjusting for significant covariates. Patients who received NACRT received single-agent chemotherapy more often than those who received NAC (31.5 versus 10.7 per cent; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study failed to show a survival benefit for NACRT over NAC alone, despite its association with negative margin resection. The significantly higher mortality in NACRT warrants further investigation into its efficacy in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Client Perspectives Regarding the Effects of a Community-centred Programme Aimed at Reducing Poverty and Social Exclusion
Authors: Levy Drorit , Freiberg Smadar
Published: January 2022

People struggling with poverty and social exclusion constitute the principal population targeted by social services around the world. To deal with this social problem, many intervention plans have been developed. In Israel, the ‘Otzma’ Centre programme was adopted in 2007 by the Ministry of Welfare and Social Affairs. The programme’s goals are reducing clients’ economic distress and social exclusion through various social work methods, with the core principle being the population’s participation. The current qualitative study focused on a community programme for reducing poverty and exclusion. It was based on semi-structured in-depth interviews with thirteen women and two men aged thirty-five to fifty-eight years who participated in the programme. The study had two central goals: (i) understanding clients’ experience of living in poverty and (ii) understanding clients’ perceptions of the contribution of a community programme to their lives. Research findings included participants’ most salient perceptions: namely, the multidimensional experience of dealing with poverty, becoming knowledgeable about their rights and the change process in terms of economic, personal and family issues. A finding that stood out in its absence concerned partnership and participation. The study enriches the literature regarding community intervention programmes, which aim to reduce poverty and exclusion. Practical and theoretical considerations are discussed.
Demand-led growth decomposition: an empirical investigation of the Brazilian slowdown in the 2010s
Authors: Magacho Guilherme R , Rocha Igor L
Published: January 2022

The empirical investigation on countries' long-term growth usually relies on growth accounting methods, which are based on a supply-led approach, where factors accumulation are the main countries' growth constraints. This approach, however, ignores the importance of effective demand in explaining the long-term dynamics. Conversely, Keynesians stress the centrality of effective demand to explain why some countries present high growth rates for prolonged periods and others do not. They account for different views on the determinants of demand growth, such as exports dynamics, income distribution and public investment. The aim of the paper is twofold. Firstly, it extends the SDA method – a method that allows us to identify sources of changes in input–output matrices – to account for endogenous consumption and import-substitution impacts, and, secondly, it applies this method to understand the Brazilian slowdown in the 2010s. Based on a Miyazawa–Leontief framework, it is possible to identify the importance of each of the demand factors in explaining countries' growth, considering both the autonomous sources of demand and their potential to spread through the economy via their multiplier effects. The application of this extension to investigate the Brazilian slowdown in the 2010s shows the importance of natural resource exports, public investment and absorption of domestic demand in different sub-periods. Based on these findings, we discuss the possibility of Brazil to restore its growth potential through specific demand stimulus, such as infrastructure investments.
Recommendations for endoscopic surveillance after esophageal atresia repair in adults
Authors: ten Kate Chantal A , van Hal Anne-Fleur R L , Erler Nicole S , Doukas Michail , Nikkessen Suzan , Vlot John , IJsselstijn Hanneke , Wijnhoven Bas P L , Wijnen René M H , Spaander Manon C W
Published: January 2022

Background

Endoscopic surveillance of adults with esophageal atresia is advocated, but the optimal surveillance strategy remains uncertain. This study aimed to provide recommendations on appropriate starting age and intervals of endoscopic surveillance in adults with esophageal atresia.

Methods

Participants underwent standardized upper endoscopies with biopsies. Surveillance intervals of 3–5 years were applied, depending on age and histopathological results. Patient’s age and time to development of (pre)malignant lesions were calculated.

Results

A total of 271 patients with esophageal atresia (55% male; median age at baseline endoscopy 26.7 (range 15.6–68.5) years; colon interposition n = 17) were included. Barrett’s esophagus was found in 19 (7%) patients (median age 32.3 (17.8–56.0) years at diagnosis). Youngest patient with a clinically relevant Barrett’s esophagus was 20.9 years. Follow-up endoscopies were performed in 108 patients (40%; median follow-up time 4.6 years). During surveillance, four patients developed Barrett’s esophagus but no dysplasia or cancer was found. One 45-year-old woman with a colon interposition developed an adenoma with high-grade dysplasia which was radically removed. Two new cases of esophageal carcinoma were diagnosed in patients (55 and 66 years old) who were not under surveillance. One of them had been curatively treated for esophageal carcinoma 13 years ago.

Conclusions

This study shows that endoscopic screening of patients with esophageal atresia, including those with a colon interposition, can be started at 20 years of age. Up to the age of 40 years a surveillance interval of 10 years appeared to be safe. Endoscopic surveillance may also be warranted for patients after curative esophageal cancer treatment.
A non-cephalometric three-dimensional appraisal of soft tissue changes by functional appliances in orthodontics: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Luyten Jonathan , Vierendeel Michiel , De Roo Noëmi M C , Temmerman Liesbeth , De Pauw Guy A M
Published: January 2022

Background

Patients with dental and skeletal Class II growth patterns present typical facial characteristics. Functional appliance (FA) therapy is one of the conventional orthodontic treatment modalities used to harmonize these facial imbalances.

Objectives

The aim of this systematic review was to investigate and summarize the effects of FAs on the facial soft tissues captured in three dimensions.

Search methods

A systematic search was conducted up to December 2020. Databases Medline (via PubMed), Embase (via Ovid), Web of Science, and Cochrane Central were searched without language restrictions.

Selection criteria

Randomized clinical trial (RCT)’s investigating the influence of FA therapy on the facial soft tissues in a non-cephalometric and three-dimensional (3D) manner, were included.

Data collection and analysis

Data extraction was independently undertaken by two authors. In case of conflict, a third author was consulted. RoB 2.0 tool was used to assess the risk of bias. A meta-analysis was performed for total facial height, upper lip length, lower lip length, commissural width, and facial depth. The single-step activation versus incremental approach was compared using a random effects model.

Results

Five studies were included in the qualitative synthesis of the systematic review. Facial height increased after FA therapy. Three studies met the criteria for the meta-analysis. The mean facial depth increased significantly (P < 0.003) with 1.39 mm (0.46 to 2.32).

Conclusions

Current evidence suggests a positive influence of the FA therapy on the soft tissues in Class II patients. However, conclusions were drawn based on a two-dimensional analysis of 3D images, suggesting that more controlled studies using a comprehensive 3D analysis are necessary to confirm these results.

Registration

PROSPERO registration (CRD 42021224016).
Unsafe jobs, labour market risk and social protection
Authors: Basso Gaetano , Boeri Tito , Caiumi Alessandro , Paccagnella Marco
Published: January 2022

This paper proposes a new classification of occupations based on the extent to which they put workers at risk of being infected by aerial-transmitted viruses. We expand on previous work that mainly focused on the identification of jobs that can be done from home by providing a more nuanced view of infection risks: in particular, we identify jobs that, although impossible to be done from home, expose workers to a low risk of infection. Jobs that cannot be done from home and that present a high risk of infection are labelled ‘unsafe jobs’. We then combine our classification of infection risk with a list of ‘essential occupations’ that have been carried out even during the most severe lockdown measures: this provides a taxonomy ranking jobs along two dimensions, one related to workers’ health and the other related to economic conditions. Using both survey and administrative data, we show that this taxonomy successfully predicts outcomes along these two dimensions, such as sick leaves, COVID-19-related work injuries, recourse to short-time work (STW) schemes and work from home. We also find that unsafe jobs are very unequally distributed across different types of workers, firms and sectors. Workers who are more vulnerable economically (women, youngsters, low educated, immigrants and workers on fixed-term contracts) are more likely to hold unsafe jobs and therefore more at risk of suffering from the economic consequences of a prolonged pandemic. We finally discuss possible paths to reform social protection systems, so that they can better support workers during the labour market adjustments that are likely to be spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Is Social Inequality in School-Age Achievement Generated before or during Schooling? A European Perspective
Authors: Passaretta Giampiero , Skopek Jan , van Huizen Thomas
Published: January 2022

Social gaps in children’s educational achievement emerge early in life and remain stable over schooling. Does social origin constantly shape achievement or is social inequality in school just an echo of inequality settled before schooling? We extend the previous research by studying the origins of social gaps in language achievement among primary-school students in Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Based on dynamic accounts of skill development, we expected social origin to shape school-age achievement not only directly but also indirectly via before-school achievement. Using longitudinal data (Cohort Study on Educational Careers, Millennium Cohort Study, and National Educational Panel Study) and applying an instrumental variable approach, we estimated the extent to which achievement gaps by parental education in school were generated before and during schooling. About 50–80 per cent of language gaps observed at end of primary school were explained by gaps settled before formal schooling in all three countries. Conversely, at most 20–50 per cent of school-age gaps were generated during schooling. These findings suggest that the roots of social inequality in school-age achievement must be sought primarily in processes transpiring before school life starts.
Association of Zinc Intake With Risk of Impaired Physical Function and Frailty Among Older Adults
Authors: Vega-Cabello Veronica , Caballero Francisco Félix , Lana Alberto , Arias-Fernandez Lucia , Banegas José R , Rodríguez-Artalejo Fernando , Lopez-Garcia Esther , Struijk Ellen A
Published: January 2022

Background

Zinc could be a target nutrient in the prevention of physical impairment and frailty in older adults due to its anti-inflammatory/antioxidant properties. However, prospective studies evaluating this inquiry are scarce. Thus, we aimed to assess the association between zinc intake and impaired lower-extremity function (ILEF) and frailty among community-dwelling older adults.

Methods

We examined 2 963 adults aged ≥60 and older from the Seniors-ENRICA cohort. At baseline (2008–2010) and subsequent follow-up (2012), zinc intake (mg/d) was estimated with a validated computerized face-to-face diet history and adjusted for total energy intake. From 2012 to 2017, the occurrence of ILEF was ascertained with the Short Physical Performance Battery, and of frailty according to the Fried phenotype criteria. Analyses were conducted using Cox proportional hazard models adjusted for relevant confounders, including lifestyle, comorbidity, and dietary factors.

Results

During follow-up, we identified 515 incident cases of ILEF and 241 of frailty. Compared with participants in the lowest tertile of zinc intake (3.99–8.36 mg/d), those in the highest tertile (9.51–21.2 mg/d) had a lower risk of ILEF (fully adjusted hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 0.75 [0.58–0.97]; p for trend: .03] and of frailty (0.63 [0.44–0.92]; p for trend: .02). No differences in the association were seen by strata of sociodemographic and lifestyle factors.

Conclusions

Higher zinc intake was prospectively associated with a lower risk of ILEF and frailty among older adults, suggesting that adequate zinc intake, which can be achieved through a healthy diet, may help preserve physical function and reduce the progression to frailty.
Interactions Between Weight Loss and Plasma Neurodegenerative Markers for Determining Cognitive Decline Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Giudici Kelly Virecoulon , Guyonnet Sophie , Morley John E , Nguyen Andrew D , Aggarwal Geetika , Parini Angelo , Li Yan , Bateman Randall J , Vellas Bruno , de Souto Barreto Philipe ,   MAPT/DSA Group
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to investigate the interaction between weight loss (WL) and plasma amyloid-β 42/40 (Aβ 42/40), neurofilament light chain (NfL), progranulin, and their association with cognitive decline over time among older adults. This 5-year observational approach included 470 participants from the Multidomain Alzheimer Preventive Trial, mean age 76.8 years (SD = 4.5), 59.4% women. WL was defined as ≥5% decrease over the first year. Biomarkers were measured at 12 months. Cognitive function was assessed yearly from 12 months onward by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE); Clinical Dementia Rating sum of boxes (CDR-SB); a composite score based on Category Naming Test; Digit Symbol Substitution Test; 10 MMSE orientation items (MMSEO) and free and total recall of the Free and Cued Selective Reminding test; and these tests individually. Twenty-seven participants (5.7%) presented WL. In adjusted analyses, combined WL + lower Aβ 42/40 (≤0.103, lowest quartile) was related with more pronounced 4-year cognitive decline according to CDR-SB (p < .0001) and MMSEO (p = .021), compared with non-WL + higher Aβ 42/40. WL + higher NfL (>94.55 pg/mL, highest quartile) or progranulin (>38.4 ng/mL, 3 higher quartiles) were related with higher cognitive decline according to CDR-SB, MMSE, MMSEO, and composite score (all p < .03), compared with non-WL + lower NfL or higher progranulin. Regrouping progranulin quartiles (Q1–Q3 vs Q4) revealed higher cognitive decline among the WL + lower progranulin group compared with non-WL + lower progranulin. In conclusion, 1-year WL was associated with subsequent higher 4-year cognitive decline among older adults presenting low Aβ 42/40 or high NfL. Future studies combining plasma biomarker assessments and body weight surveillance may be useful for identifying people at risk of cognitive impairment. Clinical trial number: NCT00672685.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors associated with increased mortality risk in breast cancer patients in Northern Israel
Authors: Fischer Avital , Rennert Hedy S , Rennert Gad
Published: January 2022

Background

Approximately one in six women in the USA takes antidepressants and a third use selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) after breast cancer diagnosis. Recent investigation demonstrated serotonin receptor (5-HTR2B) expression in the breast and serotonin production as an indicator of poor breast cancer prognosis. This study investigates the association between SSRI use at different time intervals relative to breast cancer diagnosis on survival.

Methods

A population-based sample of 6959 consecutive, newly diagnosed breast cancer cases in Northern Israel was included. Patients were recruited from January 2000 and followed up through March 2020. Participants completed risk factor questionnaires regarding medical, reproductive and family history, medication use and health habits. Full prescription data were available through the Israeli national Clalit medical database. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were used to determine survival based on time of SSRI use.

Results

Use of SSRIs in the 5 years prior to breast cancer diagnosis was associated with a 66% increase in overall mortality (HRadj  = 1.66; CI: 1.05–2.63). SSRI use that initiated after breast cancer diagnosis was associated with an 81% increase in mortality (HRadj = 1.81; CI: 1.58–2.06). Use of SSRIs in the 5 years post-diagnosis was associated with a dose–response increase (P < 0.001) in long-term mortality (>5 years). Heavy SSRI use (≥24 prescription fills) after diagnosis was associated with nearly doubling in mortality (HR = 1.99; CI: 1.39–2.83).

Conclusion

SSRI use prior to and after breast cancer diagnosis is associated with increased mortality in breast cancer patients. Additional research is needed to better understand mechanisms mediating this association.
Chloroquine-susceptible and -resistantPlasmodium falciparumstrains survive high chloroquine concentrations by becoming dormant but are eliminated by prolonged exposure
Authors: Ursing Johan , Johns Rasmus , Aydin-Schmidt Berit , Calçada Carla , Kofoed Poul-Erik , Ghanchi Najia Karim , Veiga Maria Isabel , Rombo Lars
Published: January 2022

Background

Plasmodium falciparum strains that are resistant to standard-dose chloroquine can be treated by higher chloroquine concentrations maintained for a longer time in vivo.

Objectives

To determine the relative importance of chloroquine concentrations versus exposure time for elimination of chloroquine-susceptible and -resistant P. falciparum in vitro.

Methods

Chloroquine-susceptible (3D7) and -resistant (FCR3) strains were exposed in vitro to 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 or 32 times their respective 90% inhibitory chloroquine concentrations for 3, 5, 7 or 14 days and then followed until recrudescence, or not, by 42 days after the end of exposure.

Results

Exposure to chloroquine appeared to eliminate susceptible and resistant parasites, leaving small pyknotic apparently dead parasites. Chloroquine-susceptible and -resistant parasites recrudesced after 3 and 5 days of chloroquine exposure. Recrudescence occurred in one out of four 7 day exposure series but not after 14 days exposure. The median time to recrudescence was 13 to 28 days with a range of 8 to 41 days after the end of exposure. Time to recrudescence after the end of exposure increased with duration of exposure for susceptible and resistant strains (P < 0.001). Time to recrudescence did not correlate with concentrations greater than 1× IC90.

Conclusions

Chloroquine-susceptible and -resistant P. falciparum probably become dormant. Elimination of dormant parasites is primarily dependent upon the duration of chloroquine exposure. Exposure to effective drug concentrations for 7 days eliminates most parasites in vitro. The results support in vivo data indicating that elimination of chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum correlates with Day 7 chloroquine concentrations.
Identify known and novel candidate genes associated with backfat thickness in Duroc pigs by large-scale genome-wide association analysis
Authors: Ding Rongrong , Zhuang Zhanwei , Qiu Yibin , Ruan Donglin , Wu Jie , Ye Jian , Cao Lu , Zhou Shenping , Zheng Enqin , Huang Wen , Wu Zhenfang , Yang Jie
Published: January 2022

Backfat thickness (BFT) is complex and economically important traits in the pig industry, since it reflects fat deposition and can be used to measure the carcass lean meat percentage in pigs. In this study, all 6,550 pigs were genotyped using the Geneseek Porcine 50K SNP Chip to identify SNPs related to BFT and to search for candidate genes through genome-wide association analysis in two Duroc populations. In total, 80 SNPs, including 39 significant and 41 suggestive SNPs, and 6 QTLs were identified significantly associated with the BFT. In addition, 9 candidate genes, including a proven major gene MC4R, 3 important candidate genes (RYR1, HMGA1, and NUDT3) which were previously described as related to BFT, and 5 novel candidate genes (SIRT2, NKAIN2, AMH, SORCS1, and SORCS3) were found based on their potential functional roles in BFT. The functions of candidate genes and gene set enrichment analysis indicate that most important pathways are related to energy homeostasis and adipogenesis. Finally, our data suggest that most of the candidate genes can be directly used for genetic improvement through molecular markers, except that the MC4R gene has an antagonistic effect on growth rate and carcass lean meat percentage in breeding. Our results will advance our understanding of the complex genetic architecture of BFT traits and laid the foundation for additional genetic studies to increase carcass lean meat percentage of pig through marker-assisted selection and/or genomic selection.
Predicting metabolizable energy from digestible energy for growing and finishing beef cattle and relationships to the prediction of methane
Authors: Hales Kristin E , Coppin Carley A , Smith Zachary K , McDaniel Zach S , Tedeschi Luis O , Cole N Andy , Galyean Michael L
Published: January 2022

Reliable predictions of metabolizable energy (ME) from digestible energy (DE) are necessary to prescribe nutrient requirements of beef cattle accurately. A previously developed database that included 87 treatment means from 23 respiration calorimetry studies has been updated to evaluate the efficiency of converting DE to ME by adding 47 treatment means from 11 additional studies. Diets were fed to growing-finishing cattle under individual feeding conditions. A citation-adjusted linear regression equation was developed where dietary ME concentration (Mcal/kg of dry matter [DM]) was the dependent variable and dietary DE concentration (Mcal/kg) was the independent variable: ME = 1.0001 × DE – 0.3926; r2 = 0.99, root mean square prediction error [RMSPE] = 0.04, and P < 0.01 for the intercept and slope. The slope did not differ from unity (95% CI = 0.936 to 1.065); therefore, the intercept (95% CI = −0.567 to −0.218) defines the value of ME predicted from DE. For practical use, we recommend ME = DE – 0.39. Based on the relationship between DE and ME, we calculated the citation-adjusted loss of methane, which yielded a value of 0.2433 Mcal/kg of dry matter intake (DMI; SE = 0.0134). This value was also adjusted for the effects of DMI above maintenance, yielding a citation-adjusted relationship: CH4, Mcal/kg = 0.3344 – 0.05639 × multiple of maintenance; r2 = 0.536, RMSPE = 0.0245, and P < 0.01 for the intercept and slope. Both the 0.2433 value and the result of the intake-adjusted equation can be multiplied by DMI to yield an estimate of methane production. These two approaches were evaluated using a second, independent database comprising 129 data points from 29 published studies. Four equations in the literature that used DMI or intake energy to predict methane production also were evaluated with the second database. The mean bias was substantially greater for the two new equations, but slope bias was substantially less than noted for the other DMI-based equations. Our results suggest that ME for growing and finishing cattle can be predicted from DE across a wide range of diets, cattle types, and intake levels by simply subtracting a constant from DE. Mean bias associated with our two new methane emission equations suggests that further research is needed to determine whether coefficients to predict methane from DMI could be developed for specific diet types, levels of DMI relative to body weight, or other variables that affect the emission of methane.
Outcome of children with relapsed high-risk neuroblastoma in Japan and analysis of the role of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Hara Junichi , Nitani Chika , Shichino Hiroyuki , Kuroda Tatsuo , Hishiki Tomoro , Soejima Toshinori , Mori Tetsuya , Matsumoto Kimikazu , Sasahara Yoji , Iehara Tomoko , Miyamura Takako , Kosaka Yoshiyuki , Takimoto Tetsuya , Nakagawara Akira , Tajiri Tatsuro ,   Japan Children’s Cancer Group (JCCG) Neuroblastoma Committee (JNBSG)
Published: January 2022

Background

In Japan, allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is widely performed for recurrent neuroblastomas. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the prognosis of recurrent neuroblastoma in Japan and explore the effectiveness of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Methods

Clinical characteristics and data on the treatment of patients with high-risk neuroblastoma who experienced first progression between 2003 and 2010 after attaining complete remission or partial remission were collected from hospitals participating in the Japanese Neuroblastoma Research Group.

Results

Data from 61 patients who fulfilled these criteria were collected. The median interval from disease onset to first progression was 19 months (range, 7–65 months), whereas the median observation time of the surviving patients was 18 months (range, 1–69 months). All patients were treated with chemotherapy, where 22 and 3 patients received allogeneic and autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, respectively. Seven patients were alive in second complete remission, and 39 died, including two in complete remission. The 3-year progression-free survival and overall survival rates were 15.3% (SE: 6.1%) and 16.9% (SE: 6.5%), respectively. For patients with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, the 3-year progression-free survival and overall survival were 28.3% (standard error, 12.0%) and 24.3% (standard error, 11.5%), respectively, and for patients without allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, the 3-year progression-free survival and overall survival were 6.0% (standard error 5.5%) and 12.0% (standard error 7.6%), respectively. The duration of initial remission (≥ 18 months) and implementation of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation were independently predictive of progression-free survival (P = 0.002 and P = 0.017), whereas for overall survival, only allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation was predictive (P = 0.012).

Conclusion

Although allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation contributed to some improvement in prognosis, it was insufficient.
Low rate of transmission to triple-vaccinated contacts of an imported case of SARS-CoV-2 omicron infection: a contact tracing study in Israel
Authors: Leshem Eyal , Gonen Tal , Hoffman Tomer , Barsisat Anat , Kreiss Yitshak , Regev-Yochay Gili
Published: January 2022

We conducted contact-tracing investigation of multiple patients and healthcare workers exposed to a pre-symptomatic physician, triple-vaccinated with BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine, infected with SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529 (Omicron) Variant. Of 51 contacts, 45(88%) were triple-vaccinated (boosted) with BNT162b2 vaccine and 47(92%) contacts were masked. One (1/51, 2%) triple-vaccinated primary contact became infected.
Limitations of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry for the identification of Aspergillus species
Authors: Shao Jin , Wang Qiqi , Wei Linwei , Wan Zhe , Li Ruoyu , Yu Jin
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to detect the identification limitations for Aspergillus species from patients or the environment based on MALDI-TOF MS analysis. A total of 209 Aspergillus isolates were selected in this study. One hundred and sixty-eight of the strains were selected as challenge strains for MALDI-TOF MS analysis, while the remaining 41 strains were used to construct a supplementary database. The 168 challenge strains were identified by the Bruker Filamentous Fungi Library v1.0 (the Bruker Library) and identified again using the Bruker Library combined with the supplementary database (the combined database). The sensitivity of MALDI-TOF MS with the Bruker Library alone and with the combined database in identifying the challenge strains at the species level was 64.3 and 85.7%, respectively. With the combined database, the sensitivity of MALDI-TOF MS in identifying strains in Aspergillus sections Fumigati, Flavi, Nigri, Terrei, and Nidulantes was 100, 86.5, 76.1, 100, and 80%, respectively, and the sensitivity in identifying strains of other Aspergillus species was 71.4%. The specificity of MALDI-TOF MS in identifying strains in all Aspergillus sections at the species level was 100%. Even when using the combined database, MALDI-TOF MS analysis showed some misidentification for the species A. niger, A. welwitschiae, A. luchuensis, A. flavus and A. sydowii. In conclusion, with the combined database, MALDI-TOF MS showed good performance in identifying the species in Aspergillus sections Fumigati and Terrei but limited performance in distinguishing some closely related species in sections Nigri, Flavi and Nidulantes.

Lay summary

MALDI-TOF MS showed good performance in identifying Aspergillus species in sections Fumigati and Terrei but limited performance in distinguishing some closely related species in sections Nigri, Flavi and Nidulantes.
Clinical trials targeting neurofibromatoses-associated tumors: a systematic review
Authors: Roman Souza Gabriel , Abdalla Ahmed , Mahadevan Daruka
Published: January 2022

Background

There is a paucity of literature that comprehensively analyzes previous and current clinical trials targeting neurofibromatoses-related tumors. This article aims to provide readers with drug development efforts targeting these tumors by analyzing translational and clinical findings.

Methods

This systematic review was written according to the PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria were clinical trials involving patients with neurofibromatosis type 1, type 2, or schwannomatosis that were treated with therapies targeting neurofibromatoses-associated tumors and that were registered on clinicaltrials.gov. In addition, a search was performed in PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Embase European for articles fully describing these clinical trials.

Results

A total of 265 clinical trials were registered and screened for eligibility. Ninety-two were included in this systematic review involving approximately 4636 participants. The number of therapies analyzed was more than 50. Drugs under investigation mainly act on the MAPK/ERK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways, tumor microenvironment, or aberrantly over-expressed cell surface receptors. Selumetinib was the most effective medication for treating a neurofibromatosis type 1-associated tumor with approximately 68%–71% partial response for inoperable or progressive plexiform neurofibromas in children 2 years of age and older and bevacizumab for a neurofibromatosis type 2-related tumor with approximately 36%–41% partial response for vestibular schwannomas in patients 12 years of age and older.

Conclusions

This systematic review presents the results of previous clinical investigations and those under development for neurofibromatoses-associated tumors. Clinicians may use this information to strategize patients to appropriate clinical trials.
Spatially-resolved relation between [C i] 3P1–3P0 and 12CO (1–0) in Arp 220
Authors: Ueda Junko , Michiyama Tomonari , Iono Daisuke , Miyamoto Yusuke , Saito Toshiki
Published: January 2022

We present $\sim {0.^{\prime \prime }3}$ (114 pc) resolution maps of [C i] 3P1–3P0 (hereafter [C i] (1–0)) and 12CO (1–0) obtained toward Arp 220 with the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array. The overall distribution of the [C i] (1–0) emission is consistent with the CO (1–0). While the [C i] (1–0) and CO (1–0) luminosities of the system follow the empirical linear relation for the unresolved ULIRG sample, we find a sublinear relation between [C i] (1–0) and CO (1–0) using the spatially-resolved data. We measure the [C i] (1–0)$/$CO (1–0) luminosity ratio per pixel in star-forming environments of Arp 220 and investigate its dependence on the CO (3–2)$/$CO (1–0) ratio (RCO). On average, the [C i] (1–0)$/$CO (1–0) luminosity ratio is almost constant up to RCO ≃ 1 and then increases with RCO. According to the radiative transfer analysis, a high C i$/$CO abundance ratio is required in regions with high [C i] (1–0)$/$CO (1–0) luminosity ratios and RCO > 1, suggesting that the C i$/$CO abundance ratio varies at ∼100 pc scale in Arp 220. The [C i] (1–0)$/$CO (1–0) luminosity ratio depends on multiple factors and may not be straightforward to interpret. We also find the high-velocity components traced by [C i] (1–0) in the western nucleus, likely associated with the molecular outflow. The [C i] (1–0)$/$CO (1–0) luminosity ratio in the putative outflow is 0.87 ± 0.28, which is four times higher than the average ratio of Arp 220. While there is a possibility that the [C i] (1–0) and CO (1–0) emission traces different components, we suggest that the high line ratios are likely to be because of elevated C i$/$CO abundance ratios based on our radiative transfer analysis. A C i-rich and CO-poor gas phase in outflows could be caused by the irradiation of the cosmic rays, the shock heating, and the intense radiation field.
Associations of sleep and circadian phenotypes with COVID-19 susceptibility and hospitalization: an observational cohort study based on the UK Biobank and a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Zheran , Luo Yaxin , Su Yonglin , Wei Zhigong , Li Ruidan , He Ling , Yang Lianlian , Pei Yiyan , Ren Jianjun , Peng Xingchen , Hu Xiaolin
Published: January 2022

Study Objectives

Sleep and circadian phenotypes are associated with several diseases. The present study aimed to investigate whether sleep and circadian phenotypes were causally linked with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related outcomes.

Methods

Habitual sleep duration, insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, daytime napping, and chronotype were selected as exposures. Key outcomes included positivity and hospitalization for COVID-19. In the observation cohort study, multivariable risk ratios (RRs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were conducted to estimate the causal effects of the significant findings in the observation analyses. Odds ratios (ORs) and the corresponding 95% CIs were calculated and compared using the inverse variance weighting, weighted median, and MR-Egger methods.

Results

In the UK Biobank cohort study, both often excessive daytime sleepiness and sometimes daytime napping were associated with hospitalized COVID-19 (excessive daytime sleepiness [often vs. never]: RR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.02−1.5; daytime napping [sometimes vs. never]: RR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.02−1.22). In addition, sometimes daytime napping was also associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 susceptibility (sometimes vs. never: RR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01−1.28). In the MR analyses, excessive daytime sleepiness was found to increase the risk of hospitalized COVID-19 (MR IVW method: OR = 4.53, 95% CI = 1.04−19.82), whereas little evidence supported a causal link between daytime napping and COVID-19 outcomes.

Conclusions

Observational and genetic evidence supports a potential causal link between excessive daytime sleepiness and an increased risk of COVID-19 hospitalization, suggesting that interventions targeting excessive daytime sleepiness symptoms might decrease severe COVID-19 rate.
Effects of physical activity and feed and water restriction at reimplanting time on feed intake patterns, growth performance, and carcass characteristics of finishing beef steers
Authors: Helmuth Cory L , Woerner Dale R , Ballou Michael A , Manahan Jeff L , Coppin Carley M , Long Nathan S , Hoffman Ashley A , Young James Daniel , Smock Taylor M , Hales Kristin E
Published: January 2022

In the feedlot, there can be a decrease in dry matter intake (DMI) associated with reimplanting cattle that negatively affects growth performance. This study was conducted to determine the mechanisms causing a decrease in DMI after reimplanting and identify a strategy to mitigate the decrease. Crossbred steers (n = 200; 10 pens/treatment; initial bodyweight [BW] = 386 ± 4.9 kg) were used in a randomized complete block design experiment. Cattle were implanted with Revalor-IS on day 0. Treatments included a Revalor-200 implant on day 90 before feeding with the following management practices imposed: 1) steers were returned to their home pen immediately after reimplant (PCON); 2) steers were placed in pens and restricted from feed and water for 4 h (RES); 3) steers were walked an additional 805 m after reimplant and then returned home (LOC); 4) steers were restricted from feed and water for 4 h and walked an additional 805 m (RES + LOC); 5) steers were given an oral bolus of Megasphaera elsdenii (Lactipro; MS Biotec, Wamego, KS) and were restricted from feed and water for 4 h, and then walked an additional 805 m (LACT). One hundred steers were given an ear tag to record minutes of activity (ESense Flex Tags, Allflex Livestock Intelligence, Madison, WI). As a percentage of BW, DMI was 5% greater (P = 0.01) from reimplant to end for PCON vs. RES, LOC, and RES + LOC treatments. Likewise, as a percentage of BW, DMI was 6.6% greater (P = 0.03) from reimplant to end and 4.0% greater (P = 0.05) overall for the PCON treatment vs. the LOC treatment. Overall, DMI as a percentage of BW was 3.3% greater (P = 0.02) for PCON vs. RES, LOC, and RES + LOC treatments. There was an increase in G:F from reimplant to end (P = 0.05) for RES + LOC vs. the LACT treatment. From these data, we conclude that restricting cattle from feed and water for 4 h after reimplanting did not alter subsequent DMI. Increasing locomotion had the greatest negative effect on DMI and growth performance. Management strategies to decrease locomotion associated with reimplanting would be beneficial to DMI and overall growth performance of finishing beef steers.
Pediatric asthma in developing countries: challenges and future directions
Authors: Trikamjee Thulja , Comberiati Pasquale , Peter Jonny
Published: January 2022

Purpose of review

Asthma continues to be a significant health problem worldwide, and epidemiological studies in the last few decades have consistently shown a marked increase in childhood asthma prevalence. The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) showed significant geographic variability in prevalence, and larger associations with morbidity and mortality in low-middle income countries (LMICs). The Global Burden of Disease estimated that 420,000 deaths occurred globally from asthma in 2016, and although asthma prevalence is higher in high-income countries, most asthma-related mortality occurs in LMICs. The general health of a population is measured, in part, by the under-5 childhood death rate, and developing countries still account for more than 80 percentage of child deaths in the world, highlighting the need for efforts to reduce disease burden in these regions.

Recent findings

The burden of asthma is higher in developing countries and underserved populations. Despite this, LMICs still face many barriers to appropriate allergy and asthma care, resulting in significant morbidity, potentially preventable asthma deaths, and economic consequences. A 2017 survey of 112 countries participating in the Global Asthma Network found that only 26 countries (23%) had a national asthma plan for children, with a lower proportion in LMICs.

The rising asthma prevalence and high asthma-related death rates in LMICs suggest that global efforts in improving asthma diagnosis and care are not reaching the most vulnerable communities. Lack of appropriate diagnosis, availability of viable treatment options, and access to specialised care still remain a challenge in many parts of the world. Though barriers to achieving better outcomes differ in specific populations, many LMICs share similar barriers relating to accessibility.
Dual-energy computed tomography in crystalline arthritis: knowns and unknowns
Authors: Pascart Tristan , Budzik Jean-François
Published: January 2022

Purpose of review

To give an overview of what can reasonably be considered as known about dual-energy computed tomography (DECT) in crystal-related arthropathies, and what still needs to be explored.

Recent findings

Recent studies suggest an overall superiority of DECT over ultrasound in gout in terms of sensitivity (89 vs. 84%) and specificity (91 vs. 84%), except in early disease. Additional studies are needed to optimize DECT postprocessing settings in order to improve the specificity of the technique and eliminate all artifacts. Evidence has been controversial concerning DECT's ability to detect monosodium urate (MSU) crystal deposits on vessel walls, or whether or not MSU-coded plaques are artifacts. DECT can be used to monitor MSU crystal depletion during urate-lowering treatment; MSU crystal volume is associated with cardiovascular risk and disease activity. There are some reports on calcium-containing crystal deposition diseases (calcium pyrophosphate and basic calcium phosphate) demonstrating that DECT can characterize and discriminate between the different types of crystals.

Our knowledge about the use of DECT in crystal-related arthropathies continues to expand. Some unknowns have been clarified but there's still lots to learn, particularly concerning gout management and the potential use of DECT in calcium-containing crystal-related arthropathies.
Complications of Elongating Intramedullary Rods in the Treatment of Lower Extremity Fractures for Osteogenesis Imperfecta: A Meta-Analysis of 594 Patients in 40 Years
Authors: Yong Bicheng , De Wouters Solange , Howard Andrew
Published: January 2022

Background:

Osteogenesis imperfecta is a collagen mutation-related disease characterized by bone fragility and other extraskeletal manifestations. Intramedullary fixation for deformity correction or fracture is the standard care. Elongating rods are designed to accommodate growth, with the aim of preventing additional operations and/or complications associated with nonelongating rods. Although elongating rods have been in use for many years, estimates of the clinical outcomes vary. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesize the literature on outcomes of elongating rods and nonelongating rods. Meta-analysis was used to compare the complication rates and reoperation rates.

Methods:

We conducted the literature search, systematic review, and meta-analysis in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Comparative cohort studies and large case series detailing complication rates and reoperation rates of elongating and nonelongating rods were included. Random effect models were used to summarize the complication rates and reoperation rates of intramedullary rod procedures.

Results:

A total of 397 studies were identified and 24 studies were included in the final cohort. Compared with rates from nonelongating rods, osteogenesis imperfecta Patients using elongating rods had a complication rate of 61% and a reoperation rate of 78%. Reoperation rates dropped with succeeding generations of elongating rods. Pooling data from 600 patients, we identified a 9% complication rate per rod per follow up year and 5% reoperation rate per rod and per follow up year in the cohort of elongating rod fixation. The Bailey-Dubow rod had the highest complication rate per rod per follow up year (12%), largely because of its T piece relate problems. The most popular fixator Fassier-Duval rod had a complication rate per rod per follow up year of 9%. About 68% of complications were mechanical-biological related.

Conclusion:

Pooling data from published literature demonstrates the advantage of elongating rods over nonelongating rods. However, as high as 9% complication rate per rod per follow up year was associated with elongating fixation. Notably, most complications are both mechanical and biological related.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Sublaminar Tethers Significantly Reduce the Risk of Proximal Junctional Failure in Surgery for Severe Adult Spinal Deformity
Authors: Yagi Mitsuru , Suzuki Satoshi , Okada Eijiro , Nori Satoshi , Tsuji Osahiko , Nagoshi Narihito , Nakamura Masaya , Matsumoto Morio , Watanabe Kota
Published: January 2022

Study Design:

This was a retrospective case series of prospectively collected data.

Objective:

The present study first described the effect of sublaminar tethering (SLT) on proximal junctional failure (PJF) in adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery.

Summary of Background Data:

PJF is a devastating complication following ASD surgery. Teriparatide administration and spinous process tethering have been reported as alternatives for the prevention of PJF, but a clinically effective prevention strategy is still a matter of debate.

Materials and Methods:

We used data from an ASD database that included 381 patients with ASD (minimum 2-y follow-up). Among them, the data of patients who had a severe sagittal deformity and had surgery from the lower thoracic spine (T9–T11) to the pelvis were extracted and propensity score matched by age, sex, body mass index, bone mineral density, curve type, sagittal alignment, and fused level to clarify whether SLT prevented the development of PJF [SLT vs. control (CTR); age: 67±7 vs. 66±8 y, T-score: −1.4±0.7 vs. −1.3±0.6, body mass index: 22±4 vs. 22±5 kg/m2, C7 sagittal vertical axis (C7SVA): 12±7 vs. 11±5 cm, pelvic incidence−lumbar lordosis (PI−LL): 51±22 vs. 49±21 degrees, pelvic tilt (PT): 36±10 vs. 34±10 degrees, level fused: 11±2 vs. 11±2]. Sixty-four patients were matched into 32 pairs and compared in terms of the postoperative alignment and frequency of PJF.

Results:

Two years postoperatively, C7SVA and PT were significantly larger in the CTR group, while no significant difference in PI−LL was found (C7SVA: 3±3 vs. 6±4 cm, P<0.01, PT: 16±6 vs. 24±9 degrees, P<0.01, PI−LL: 7±9 vs. 11±11 degrees, P=0.22). The proximal junctional angle was significantly greater in the CTR group (proximal junctional kyphosis: 8±8 vs. 17±13 degrees, P<0.01). The incidence of PJF was significantly lower in the SLT group (3% vs. 25%, P=0.03), with an odds ratio of 0.1 (95% confidence interval: 0.0–0.8, P=0.03).

Conclusion:

In the propensity score–matched cohort, the incidence of PJF was significantly lower in the SLT group. SLT is a promising procedure that may reduce the risk of PJF in severe ASD surgery.