bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Next-Generation Sequencing for the Quality Control of Live-Attenuated Polio Vaccines
Authors: Charlton Bethany , Hockley Jason , Laassri Majid , Wilton Thomas , Crawt Laura , Preston Mark ,   NGS Study Group, Cassart Jean-Pol , Essaghir Ahmed , Vandeputte Olivier , Lambert Christophe , Janssen Mathias , Preux Lucas , Andre Murielle , Sarcey Eric , Perret Isabelle , Tindy Fabrice , Mallet Laurent , de Boer Steffen Matthijn , Nakamura Tomofumi , Ochiai Susumu , Fritzsche Martin , Holmes Nadine , Majumdar Manasi , Mee Edward , Valdazo-Gonzalez Begona , Laassri Majid , Chumakov Konstantin , Cassart Jean-Pol , Essaghir Ahmed , Vandeputte Olivier , Lambert Christophe , Janssen Mathias , Preux Lucas , Andre Murielle , Sarcey Eric , Perret Isabelle , Tindy Fabrice , Mallet Laurent , de Boer Steffen Matthijn , Nakamura Tomofumi , Ochiai Susumu , Fritzsche Martin , Holmes Nadine , Majumdar Manasi , Mee Edward , Valdazo-Gonzalez Begona , Laassri Majid , Chumakov Konstantin , Rigsby Peter , Chumakov Konstantin , Martin Javier
Published: May 2020

Background

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis was compared to the current MAPREC (mutational analysis by polymerase chain reaction and restriction enzyme cleavage) assay for quality control of live-attenuated oral polio vaccine (OPV).

Methods

MAPREC measures reversion of the main OPV attenuating mutations such as uracil (U) to cytosine (C) at nucleotide 472 in the 5′ noncoding region of type 3 OPV. Eleven type 3 OPV samples were analyzed by 8 laboratories using their in-house NGS method.

Results

Intraassay, intralaboratory, and interlaboratory variability of NGS 472-C estimates across samples and laboratories were very low, leading to excellent agreement between laboratories. A high degree of correlation between %472-C results by MAPREC and NGS was observed in all laboratories (Pearson correlation coefficient r = 0.996). NGS estimates of sequences at nucleotide 2493 with known polymorphism among type 3 OPV lots also produced low assay variability and excellent between-laboratory agreement.

Conclusions

The high consistency of NGS data demonstrates that NGS analysis can be used as high-resolution test alternative to MAPREC, producing whole-genome profiles to evaluate OPV production consistency, possibly eliminating the need for tests in animals. This would be very beneficial for the quality assessment of next-generation polio vaccines and, eventually, for other live-attenuated viral vaccines.
SDSS-IV MaNGA: stellar population correlates with stellar root-mean-square velocity Vrms gradients or total-density-profile slopes at fixed effective velocity dispersion σe
Authors: Lu Shengdong , Cappellari Michele , Mao Shude , Ge Junqiang , Li Ran
Published: May 2020

Galaxy properties are known to correlate most tightly with the galaxy effective stellar velocity dispersion σe. Here, we look for additional trends at fixed σe using 1339 galaxies (M* ≳ 6 × 109 M⊙) with different morphologies in the MaNGA (DR14) sample with integral-field spectroscopy data. We focus on the gradients (γrms ≡ σ(Re/4)/σe) of the stellar root-mean-square velocity ($V_{\rm rms} \equiv \sqrt{V^2 + \sigma ^2}$), which we show traces the total mass density gradient γtot derived from dynamical models and, more weakly, the bulge fraction. We confirm that γrms increases with σe, age, and metallicity. We additionally find that these correlations still exist at fixed σe, where galaxies with larger γrms are found to be older and more metal-rich. It means that mass density gradients contain information of the stellar population which is not fully accounted for by σe. This result puts an extra constraint on our understanding of galaxy quenching. We compare our results with galaxies in the IllustrisTNG hydrodynamical simulations and find that, at fixed σe, similar trends exist with age, the bulge fraction, and the total mass density slope but, unlike observations, no correlation with metallicity can be detected in the simulations.
The nature of flux variations in the continua and broad-line regions of selected active galactic nuclei
Authors: Bewketu Belete A , Goicoechea L J , Canto Martins B L , Leão I C , De Medeiros J R
Published: May 2020

We present a multifractal analysis of the long-term light curves of a small sample of type 1 active galactic nuclei: NGC 4151, Arp 102B, 3C 390.3, E1821+643 and NGC 7469. We aim to investigate how the degrees of multifractality of the continuum and Hβ line vary among the five different objects and to check whether the multifractal behaviours of the continuum and the Hβ line correlate with standard accretion parameters. The backward (θ  = 0) one-dimensional multifractal detrended moving average procedure was applied to light curves covering the full observation period and partial observation periods containing an equal number of epochs for each object. We detected multifractal signatures for the continua of NGC 4151, Arp 102B and 3C 390.3 and for the Hβ lines of NGC 4151 and 3C 390.3. However, we found nearly monofractal signatures for the continua of E1821+643 and NGC 7469, as well as for the Hβ lines of Arp 102B, E1821+643 and NGC 7469. In addition, we did not find any correlations between the degree of multifractality of the Hβ line and accretion parameters, while the degree of multifractality of the continuum seems to correlate with the Eddington ratio (i.e. the smaller the ratio is, the stronger the degree of multifractality). The given method is not robust, and these results should be taken with caution. Future analysis of the sampling rate and other properties of the light curves should help with better constraining and understanding these results.
Decoupling the rotation of stars and gas – II. The link between black hole activity and simulated IFU kinematics in IllustrisTNG
Authors: Duckworth Christopher , Starkenburg Tjitske K , Genel Shy , Davis Timothy A , Habouzit Mélanie , Kraljic Katarina , Tojeiro Rita
Published: May 2020

We study the relationship between supermassive black hole (BH) feedback, BH luminosity, and the kinematics of stars and gas for galaxies in IllustrisTNG. We use galaxies with mock MaNGA observations to identify kinematic misalignment at z = 0 (difference in rotation of stars and gas), for which we follow the evolutionary history of BH activity and gas properties over the last 8 Gyr. Misaligned low-mass galaxies ($\mathrm{\mathit{ M}_{stel} \lt 10^{10.2}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }}$) typically have boosted BH luminosity and BH growth, and have had more energy injected by BHs into the gas over the last 8 Gyr in comparison to low-mass aligned galaxies. These properties likely lead to outflows and gas removal, in agreement with active low mass galaxies in observations. Splitting on BH luminosity at z = 0 produces consistent distributions of kinematic misalignment at z = 0; however, splitting on the maximum BH luminosity over the last 8 Gyr produces statistically significant different distributions. While instantaneous correlation at z = 0 is difficult due to misalignment persisting on longer time-scales, the relationship between BH activity and misalignment is clear. High-mass quenched galaxies ($\mathrm{\mathit{ M}_{stel} \gt 10^{10.2}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }}$) with misalignment typically have similar BH luminosities, show lower gas fractions, and have typically lower gas phase metallicity over the last 8 Gyr in comparison to the high mass aligned.
Risk factors for venous thromboembolism in patients with nephrotic syndrome: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Shinkawa Kanna , Yoshida Satomi , Seki Tomotsugu , Yanagita Motoko , Kawakami Koji
Published: May 2020

Background

Nephrotic syndrome is associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, the risk factors of VTE in nephrotic syndrome, other than hypoalbuminemia and severe proteinuria, are not well established. Therefore we aimed to investigate the risk factors of VTE in patients with nephrotic syndrome.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used data from a Japanese nationwide claims database. We identified patients ≥18 years of age hospitalized with nephrotic syndrome. Through multivariable logistic regression, we determined the risk factors of VTE in patients with nephrotic syndrome during hospitalization.

Results

Of the 7473 hospitalized patients with nephrotic syndrome without VTE, 221 (3.0%) developed VTE. In the VTE group, 14 (6.3%), 11 (5.0%) and 198 (89.6%) patients developed pulmonary embolism, renal vein thrombosis and deep vein thrombosis, respectively. We found that female sex {odds ratio [OR] 1.39 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.05–1.85]}, body mass index (BMI) ≥30 [OR 2.01 (95% CI 1.35–2.99)], acute kidney injury [AKI; OR 1.67 (95% CI 1.07–2.62)], sepsis [OR 2.85 (95% CI 1.37–5.93)], lupus nephritis [OR 3.64 (95% CI 1.58–8.37)] and intravenous corticosteroids use [OR 2.40 (95% CI 1.52–3.80)] were associated with a significantly higher risk of developing VTE.

Conclusions

In patients with nephrotic syndrome, female sex, BMI ≥30, AKI, sepsis, lupus nephritis and intravenous corticosteroid use may help evaluate the risk of VTE.
Dissecting the Financial Relationship Between Industry and Academic Neurosurgery
Authors: Motiwala Mustafa , Herr Michael J , Jampana Raju Sripraharsha S , Lillard Jock , Ajmera Sonia , Saad Hassan , Schultz Andrew , Fraser Brittany , Wallace David , Norrdahl Sebastian , Akinduro Olutomi , Oravec Chesney S , Xu Raymond , Jimenez Brian , Justo Melissa , Hardee Jennings , Vaughn Brandy N , Michael L Madison , Klimo Paul
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Established by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the Open Payments Database (OPD) has reported industry payments to physicians since August 2013.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the frequency, type, and value of payments received by academic neurosurgeons in the United States over a 5-yr period (2014-2018).

METHODS

The OPD was queried for attending neurosurgeons from all neurosurgical training programs in the United States (n = 116). Information from the OPD was analyzed for the entire cohort as well as for comparative subgroup analyses, such as career stage, subspecialty, and geographic location.

RESULTS

Of all identified neurosurgeons, 1509 (95.0%) received some payment from industry between 2014 and 2018 for a total of 106 171 payments totaling $266 407 458.33. A bimodal distribution was observed for payment number and total value: 0 to 9 (n = 438) vs > 50 (n = 563) and 0-$1000 (n = 418) vs >$10 000 (n = 653), respectively. Royalty/License was the most common type of payment overall (59.6%; $158 723 550.57). The median number (40) and value ($8958.95) of payments were highest for mid-career surgeons. The South-Central region received the most money ($117 970 036.39) while New England received the greatest number of payments (29 423). Spine surgeons had the greatest median number (60) and dollar value ($20 551.27) of payments, while pediatric neurosurgeons received the least (8; $1108.29). Male neurosurgeons received a greater number (31) and value ($6395.80) of payments than their female counterparts (11, $1643.72).

CONCLUSION

From 2014 to 2018, payments to academic neurosurgeons have increased in number and value. Dollars received were dependent on geography, career stage, subspecialty and gender.
Reoperation Rates of Percutaneous and Paddle Leads in Spinal Cord Stimulator Systems: A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Antonovich Devin D , Gama Willy , Ritter Alexandra , Wolf Bethany Jacobs , Nobles Ryan H , Selassie Meron A , Hillegass M Gabriel
Published: May 2020

Objective

We hypothesize that reoperation rates of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) systems utilizing percutaneous leads are comparable to those utilizing paddle leads. We attempt here to characterize causes for those reoperations and identify any related patient characteristics.

Design and Subjects

This study is a single-center retrospective chart review of 291 subjects (410 operations) who underwent at least one permanent SCS implantation utilizing percutaneous or paddle leads over a 10-year period at the Medical University of South Carolina.

Methods

Charts were reviewed for height, weight, body mass index, gender, race, age, stimulator type, type of reoperation, diabetes status, history and type of prior back surgery, top lead location, and number of leads placed. Comparisons of patient and procedural characteristics were conducted using a two-sample t test (continuous variables), chi-square, or Fisher exact approach (categorical variables). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were developed, identifying associations between patient characteristics, SCS characteristics, reoperation rates, and time to reoperation.

Results

Thirty point five eight percent of subjects (89/291), required at least one reoperation. The reoperation rate was 27.84% for percutaneous systems (N = 54/194) and 27.78% for paddle systems (N = 60/216). Time to reoperation also did not differ between the two systems (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.06, 95% CI = 0.70–1.60). Of all factors examined, younger age at time of placement was the only factor associated with risk of reoperation (HR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.62–0.87, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that reoperation rates and time to reoperation between percutaneous and paddle leads are clinically similar; therefore, rates of reoperation should have no bearing on which system to choose.
Do Voters Respond to Relative Economic Performance?
Authors: Aytaç Selim Erdem
Published: May 2020

An emerging literature suggests that economic voting is driven by incumbents’ relative performance, that is, how the national economy performed relative to recent past outcomes in the country (domestic comparison) and in a cross-national perspective (international comparison). While scholars have presented macro-level evidence in this direction, to date there has been scant micro-level evidence as to whether voters’ evaluations of incumbent competence are shaped by relative performance. This article contributes to the literature by presenting two population-based survey experiments fielded in the United Kingdom and in Istanbul, Turkey. Both British and Turkish voters’ evaluations of incumbent competence are affected by information about how well the economy performed in domestic and international comparisons, though Turkish voters seem to react to international performance comparison to a lesser degree than to a domestic one. In both countries highly educated individuals are more responsive to the incumbent’s relative international performance. These results provide support for macro-level analyses that highlight the importance of incumbents’ relative performance for economic voting.
Support for Regionalization in Federal Belgium: The Role of Political Socialization
Authors: Dupuy Claire , Verhaegen Soetkin , Van Ingelgom Virginie
Published: May 2020

Regionalization, in the form of a dispersion of political power away from national political centers to regional governments, has been a defining feature of European politics since the 1970s. The article focuses on how institutional regionalization changed citizens’ attitudes about the division of competences between the central and regional level. It argues that regional institutions and policies exert a socializing effect on citizens’ preference in favor of these institutions through a mechanism of adaptive preferences. First, attitudes are studied across cohorts in a single population to test whether cohorts that came of age in a context of more institutional regionalization are more favorable towards regional decision-making than cohorts that came of age in a centralized state. The analyses indeed show evidence for a socializing effect of institutional regionalization. Second, the article shows how regional elites’ discourses may moderate the relationship between institutional regionalization and citizens’ attitudes about regionalization. We study Belgium as a crucial case. We use five cross-sectional datasets of the Flemish and Walloon populations during the course of increased regionalization in Belgium (1991–2007).
Evaluation of Effects of Chemical Soil Treatments and Potato Cultivars on Spongospora subterranea Soil Inoculum and Incidence of Powdery Scab and Potato Mop-Top Virus in Potato
Authors: Zeng Yuan , Fulladolsa Ana Cristina , Cordova Andrew M. , O’Neill Patrick , Gray Stewart M. , Charkowski Amy O.
Published: May 2020

Spongospora subterranea is a soilborne plasmodiophorid that causes powdery scab in potato. It also transmits potato mop-top virus (PMTV), which causes necrotic arcs (spraing) in potato tubers. Three field experiments were conducted in naturally S. subterranea-infested soil to investigate the effects of two chemicals, Omega 500F (fluazinam) and FOLI-R-PLUS RIDEZ (biological extract), on powdery scab, PMTV, and changes in S. subterranea inoculum with six different potato cultivars. The efficacy of soil treatment with these two chemicals on tuber lesions, root galling, and pathogen population was also assessed in greenhouse trials. The chemical treatments did not reduce powdery scab, root gall formation, or S. subterranea inoculum in the field or greenhouse trials. Postharvest S. subterranea soil inoculum in fields varied across farms and among potato cultivars but the pathogen population consistently increased by the end of the growing season. The evaluated russet cultivars were more tolerant to powdery scab than the yellow- or red-skinned cultivars but all were susceptible to PMTV. In the field, powdery scab indices and soil inoculum changes were positively correlated, while postharvest S. subterranea inoculum was positively correlated with root galling in both greenhouse trials. Powdery scab and PMTV occurred in noninoculated potting mix, indicating that peat-based potting mix is a source for both pathogens. These results demonstrate that chemical management methods currently used by farmers are ineffective, that S. subterranea and PMTV in potting mix can cause severe epidemics in greenhouses, and that potato cultivar choices impact inoculum increases in soil.
Long-term Outcomes of Punctal Cauterization in the Management of Ocular Surface Diseases
Authors: Wang Yvonne , Carreno-Galeano Jimena Tatiana , Singh Rohan Bir , Dana Reza , Yin Jia
Published: May 2020

Purpose:

To evaluate the long-term outcomes of surgical occlusion of lacrimal puncta using thermal cautery in the management of ocular surface diseases.

Methods:

We reviewed medical records of 80 consecutive patients from a single academic center who underwent punctal cauterization. Patient demographics, ocular history, symptoms, and signs of ocular surface diseases pre- and post-cauterization were recorded.

Results:

A total of 80 patients (171 puncta) were included, with an average age of 59 years and a follow-up duration of 27 months. The most common ocular morbidity was ocular graft-versus-host disease (n = 36), followed by primary keratoconjunctivitis sicca (n = 15). Indications for punctal cauterization included plug loss (n = 51), difficulty in plug fitting (n = 11), plug-related complications (n = 6), recanalization of previous cauterization (n = 7), and severe ocular surface disease requiring permanent punctal closure (n = 4). After punctal cauterization, the percentage of eyes with severe (21%) and moderate (25%) dry eye decreased significantly (8% and 19% at 3 months and 6% and 17% at 12 months, P = 0.0006). Fifty-four percent of patients reported improvement in their symptoms. The rate of recanalization was 21% during the follow-up period. The use of topical corticosteroids was associated with higher recanalization rate. Associated complications were limited to temporary pain and swelling.

Conclusions:

Punctal cauterization is an effective modality in treating severe ocular surface diseases in patients who repeatedly lose punctal plugs, and it can be easily performed in a clinic setting without major complications. However, cauterization may need to be repeated in up to a quarter of cases because of recanalization.
Increased expression of microRNA-93 correlates with progression and prognosis of prostate cancer
Authors: Wang Chongshan , Tian Shengping , Zhang Dongjiang , Deng Jinbiao , Cai Huage , Shi Chongjun , Yang Weizhong
Published: May 2020

MicroRNA-93 (miR-93) has been found to be up-regulated in multiple malignancies. miR-93 might promote the proliferation and invasion of prostate cancer cell. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the expression level of miR-93 in prostate cancer tissues and its clinical and prognostic value in patients with prostate cancer.

A total of 103 paired prostate cancer tissues and adjacent normal tissues were obtained from male patients who underwent surgical treatment in the department of urology, Huizhou Third People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University between July 2014 and March 2018. The correlation between prostate cancer characteristics and miR-93 expression was examined by chi-square test. Patient survival was evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using log-rank test. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed for survival data.

Compared to noncancerous prostate tissues, the expression levels of miR-93 in prostate cancer tissues were significantly increased (P < .001). High level of miR-93 expression was significantly correlated with Gleason score (P = .018), lymph node involvement (P = .026), bone metastasis (P < .001), and Tumor Node Metastasis (TNM) stage (P < .001). The 5-year overall survival rate in the high expression group was lower than that in the low expression group (log-rank test, P = .031). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that miR-93 expression level (HR = 2.181, 95% CI: 1.092-6.829, P = .028) was an independent factor in predicting the overall survival of prostate cancer patients.

The present study demonstrated that increased expression of miR-93 correlates with progression and prognosis of prostate cancer. These fndings suggest miR-93 may serve as a novel target for prostate cancer prognosis and therapy.
Correlation of microRNA-146a/b with disease risk, biochemical indices, inflammatory cytokines, overall disease severity, and prognosis of sepsis
Authors: Chen Li , Yu Lili , Zhang Rixin , Zhu Ling , Shen Wanqi
Published: May 2020

Background:

Previous studies have indicated the association of microRNA-146a/b (miR-146a/miR-146b) with pro-inflammatory cytokines production, lipopolysaccharide-mediated injuries and organ dysfunction, however, the correlation of miR-146a/miR-146b with disease risk, disease severity, biochemical indices, inflammatory cytokines and mortality of sepsis has not been explored, which was investigated in the present study.

Methods:

In total, 180 sepsis patients and 180 healthy controls were enrolled. The peripheral blood samples were collected from sepsis patients within 24 hour after admission and from healthy controls at enrolment. Furthermore, MiR-146a/miR-146b expressions in plasma were detected by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

MiR-146a and miR-146b expressions were higher in sepsis patients compared to healthy controls. MiR-146a (AUC: 0.774, 95%CI: 0.727–0.820) and miR-146b (AUC: 0.897, 95%CI: 0.865–0.929) were both of good value in predicting increased sepsis risk, among which miR-146b presented a superior predictive value. In sepsis patients, MiR-146a expression was positively associated with miR-146b expression. Besides, MiR-146a and miR-146b expressions were positively correlated with acute pathologic and chronic health evaluation II score, sequential organ failure assessment score, serum creatinine, C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-17, while negatively correlated with albumin. Based on the survival status in 28-day follow-up, MiR-146a and miR-146b expression were both increased in survivors compared to deaths. miR-146b presented relatively good predictive for increased 28-day mortality risk (AUC: 0.703, 95%CI: 0.617–0.788), but MiR-146a was of poor value in predicting increased 28-day mortality risk (AUC: 0.599, 95%CI: 0.511–0.688).

Conclusion:

MiR-146b presents superior potential as a prognostic biomarker in sepsis patients compared to MiR-146a, which implies the clinical application of miR-146b in disease management of sepsis.
Identification of a novel mutation in pseudohypoparathyroidism type Ia in a Chinese family
Authors: Tang Yuchen , Zheng Fenping , Lin Xihua , Pan Qianqian , Li Lin , Li Hong
Published: May 2020

Introduction:

Pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) indicates a group of rare disorders characterized by end-organ resistance to various hormones, primarily parathyroid hormone (PTH). One of its most common type is PHP-Ia, which is caused by maternally inherited inactivating mutations in GNAS. In this report, we present a Chinese girl with typical features of PHP-Ia and a novel mutation of the GNAS gene.

Patient concerns:

A 9-year-old Chinese girl presented with recurrent epileptic seizure.

Diagnosis:

Biochemical and imaging findings were consistent with PHP-Ia, including typical Albright hereditary osteodystrophy phenotype (short stature, round face, brachydactyly, and mild mental retardation), PTH resistance (hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, elevated serum PTH, and multiple intracranial calcification) and thyroid stimulating hormone resistance (elevated serum thyroid stimulating hormone).

Interventions:

The patient was given 1α-hydroxylated vitamin D (calcitriol, 0.5 ug/d), calcium carbonate and vitamin D3 tablets (1.5 g/d, including 600 mg calcium and 125 IU vitamin D3). DNA analysis of the GNAS gene was performed for the whole family.

Outcomes:

Investigation of the GNAS gene revealed a novel mutation c.313delG (p.Glu105Lysfs∗7) in the patient, as well as her mother. So the diagnosis of PHP-Ia was confirmed.

Conclusion:

The study further expands the spectrum of known GNAS mutations associated with PHP and lay emphasis on the genetic analysis of GNAS gene for identifying genetic abnormalities as well as making diagnosis and differentiation of various subtypes of PHP.
Long-term results of irrigated bipolar radiofrequency ablation in patients with recurrent arrhythmia after failed unipolar ablation
Authors: Baszko Artur , Kochman Karol , Królak Tomasz , Kałmucki Piotr , Telec Wojciech , Ożegowski Stefan , Szyszka Andrzej
Published: May 2020

Introduction:

The RF ablation of ventricular tachycardia (VT) or atrial flutter (AFl) can be unsuccessful due to lack of lesion transmurality. Bipolar ablation (BA) is more successful than unipolar ablation (UA). The purpose of our study was to investigate the long-term effect of BA ablation in patients after failed UA.

Methods:

Patients with septal VT (5) or AFL (2) after 2 to 5 unsuccessful UA were prospectively analysed after BA. All patients presented with heart failure or had ICD interventions.

Results:

BA was successful in 5 patients (1 failure each in the AFL and VT group). The follow-up duration was 10 to 26 months. In AFL group, BA was successful in 1 patient, unidirectional cavotricuspid block in was achieved in the other patient. All patients were asymptomatic for 12 months, but 1 had atrial fibrillation and the other had AFL reablation 19 months after BA. In VT group, all patients had several forms of septal VT. BA was successful in 4 patients. In 2 patients with high septal VT BA resulted in complete atrioventricular block. During follow-up, 1 patient had VT recurrence 26 months after BA and died after an unsuccessful reablation. Three patients had VT recurrences of different morphologies, which required reablation (UA in 2 and alcohol septal ablation in the other patient).

Conclusion:

BA was successful in patients with AFL and septal VT resistant to standard ablation. Relapses of clinical arrhythmia are rare; however, long-term follow-up is complicated by recurrences of different arrhythmias related to complex arrhythmogenic substrate
Postoperative T1 tilt is a risk factor for postoperative distal adding-on in Lenke type 1 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Sakai Yusuke , Takenaka Shota , Makino Takahiro , Yoshikawa Hideki , Kaito Takashi
Published: May 2020

Retrospective comparable study.

Postoperative loss of correction, which is referred to as the distal adding-on phenomenon, sometimes occurs during the postoperative course in Lenke type 1 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Selection of the lowest instrumented vertebra (LIV) has been reported to be one of the significant factors for preventing distal adding-on. However, proximal parameters, such as the Cobb angle of the proximal thoracic (PT) curve, radiographic shoulder height, and T1 tilt, were rarely described in previous reports. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for postoperative distal adding-on, including proximal radiographic parameters, in Lenke type 1 AIS.

Preoperative and postoperative radiographs of 34 consecutive patients with Lenke type 1 curve who underwent selective thoracic fusion were analyzed. The patients were divided into an adding-on group and a no-adding-on group according to the presence of adding-on at a 2-year follow-up. The 2 groups were compared with regard to age at surgery, Lenke lumbar modifier, Risser grade, instrumentation type, and radiographic parameters.

Distal adding-on was noted in 10 patients (29%). The adding-on group had significant variables including preoperative larger PT Cobb angle (P = .002), larger main thoracic (MT) flexibility (P = .006), smaller thoracolumbar (TL) Cobb angle (P = .012), larger LIV shift (P < .001), larger T1 tilt (P = .001), postoperative larger PT Cobb angle (P = .012), smaller MT Cobb angle (P = .016), smaller TL Cobb angle (P < .001), larger PT–MT mismatch (P < .001), larger LIV shift (P = .026), and larger T1 tilt (P = .006) when compared with the findings in the no-adding-on group. Postoperative T1 tilt was significantly correlated with PT–MT mismatch.

Our findings suggest that not only the LIV but also proximal parameters, including T1 tilt and PT–MT mismatch, are associated with postoperative distal adding-on in Lenke type 1 AIS. Strategies to reduce postoperative T1 tilt and PT–MT mismatch are required to prevent distal adding-on.
A new technique for supracervical hysterectomy
Authors: Li Zi-Jun , Jia Zhen-Xiang , Zheng Ya-Qin
Published: May 2020

To review the results of a novel method of subtotal hysterectomy, called anterograde vaginal subtotal hysterectomy (AVSH), and to compare them with those of laparoscopic subtotal hysterectomy (LSH).

We recruited 100 women with non-prolapsed uteruses and benign lesions of the uterus who required surgery. Of these, 60 underwent AVSH and 40 underwent LSH. Clinical data included average operation time, average volume of bleeding, postoperative anal exsufflation time, operative complications, average length of hospital stay and average hospital maintenance fee.

There were no significant differences in terms of average operation time, average length of hospital stay, or operative complications between the AVSH and LSH groups. The AVSH group showed early postoperative anal exsufflation (P = .000), and had a low average hospital maintenance fee (P = .000). The AVSH group showed a higher perioperative bleeding volume than the LSH group (P = .001), which may be a result of the relatively amateur AVSH technique.

AVSH is a minimally invasive, safe and feasible surgical procedure, with favorable early postoperative anal exsufflation and a low average hospital maintenance fee.
Operative fixation of medial epicondyle fractures: complication rates based on mode of fixation
Authors: Nielsen Ena , Andras Lindsay M. , Anesi Trevor J. , Lightdale-Miric Nina , Lee Pace J.
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study is to define the rate of implant failure and risk factors for failure in patients treated operatively for displaced medial epicondyle fractures.

Patients <18 years of age with medial epicondyle humerus fractures that were treated with screw or k-wire fixation between 2005 and 2015 were eligible. Inclusion criteria included follow-up until radiographic union and no known medical conditions that could impair healing.

Thirty four patients with 35 fractures were identified with an average age of 12 years old. 11.4% (n = 4/35) of fractures were treated using K-wires, 25.7% (n = 9/35) were treated using a screw and washer construction, and 62.9% (n = 22/35) were treated using screw alone. There were 16 reported complications (46%) including implant prominence requiring reoperation (6), implant failure (1), and fracture displacement (1). Other complications included non-union/delayed union (4), new ulnar nerve palsy (2), and decreased range of motion (2). Rates of complications were not different between the types of fixation (P = 1.0). Those who developed complications were younger than those who did not (P = 0.05). 91.4% of patients returned to full activity including weight bearing and throwing sports.

Although 25% of patients experienced implant complications and the overall complication rate approached 50%, nearly all reported return to full activity.
A case report of Hodgkin lymphoma in a patient treated with ustekinumab for psoriasis
Authors: Charakopoulos Emmanouil , Spyrou Ioannis , Viniou Nora-Athina , Giannakopoulou Nefeli , Hatzidavid Sevastianos , Diamantopoulos Panagiotis Theodorou
Published: May 2020

Rationale:

Ustekinumab is a biological agent that inhibits interleukin 12 and 23 and has been approved for the treatment of moderate and severe plaque psoriasis. There have been case reports that raise concerns about its oncogenic potential. We are the first authors to report a case of Hodgkin lymphoma in a psoriatic patient receiving ustekinumab.

Patient concerns:

A 22-year-old asymptomatic female patient presented to our department to investigate an enlarged cervical lymph node. Her past history was unremarkable, except for psoriasis since age 13. Two months before presentation the decision to administer Ustekinumab was taken and the patient had already received 3 doses.

Diagnoses:

During workup a Stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma was discovered.

Interventions:

Ustekinumab administration was discontinued. The patient received treatment with the ABVD regimen.

Outcomes:

The patient's disease was refractory to the above-mentioned treatment. Therefore, a more aggressive regimen (BEACOPP escalated) was administered.

Lessons:

Growing postmarketing surveillance data and case reports indicate that further research is warranted in order to elucidate a potential association between Ustekinumab and malignancy.
Personalized electro-acupuncture versus auricular-acupuncture comparative effectiveness (PEACE): A protocol of a randomized controlled trial for chronic musculoskeletal pain in cancer survivors
Authors: Liou Kevin T. , Baser Ray , Romero Sally A.D. , Green Jamie , Li Q. Susan , Orlow Irene , Panageas Katherine S. , Mao Jun J.
Published: May 2020

Introduction:

Chronic pain is a leading cause of disability and remains under-treated in nearly half of patients with cancer. The opioid crisis has highlighted an urgent public health need for effective nonpharmacological pain management. Electroacupuncture (EA) and Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA) represent nonpharmacological modalities used in clinical practice to manage pain; however, their effectiveness has not been rigorously evaluated in oncology settings.

Methods:

We describe the design of a 3-arm, parallel, single-center, multisite randomized controlled trial that investigates EA and BFA versus usual-care wait-list control (WLC) for chronic musculoskeletal pain among 360 patients with diverse cancer types across various stages. The primary aim is to compare effects of EA and BFA versus WLC on pain, physical function, and co-morbid symptoms. The secondary aim is to examine the interaction between patient outcome expectancy and acupuncture modality (EA vs BFA) on pain reduction. The tertiary aim is to evaluate the association between genetic polymorphisms and responses to acupuncture. Patients will be randomized in a 2:2:1 ratio to EA:BFA:WLC. Acupuncture groups will receive weekly treatments over 10 weeks. WLC will receive usual care over the same evaluation period as the acupuncture groups. The primary endpoint will be the change in average pain intensity score from baseline to week 12. We will collect validated patient-reported outcomes and blood/saliva samples at multiple timepoints over 24 weeks.

Discussion:

Our findings will advance nonpharmacological pain management in oncology and inform personalized treatment approaches that integrate individuals’ expectations and genetic biomarkers to deliver “precision” acupuncture to cancer patients with chronic pain.

Trial Registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02979574
Comparison of coronary artery bypass grafting and percutaneous coronary intervention for syphilitic coronary artery ostial lesions
Authors: Han Junyu , Zheng Wuyang , Li Weihua , Xie Qiang , Huang Zhengrong , Yang Shuyu
Published: May 2020

This study investigated the efficacy of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in treatment of patients with syphilitic coronary artery ostial lesions (SCAOL).

Sixty SCAOL patients were divided into two groups according to the different treatments: the CABG group (n = 32) and the PCI group (n = 28). We determined serum levels of β-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and cardiac function, and evaluated treatment efficacy such as the rates of restenosis, patency, and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) during hospital stay and the effects of antisyphilis and different types of CABG on restenosis during the 6-month follow-up period.

There were no statistical differences in demographic or baseline clinical characteristics, BNP levels, left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVDd), or ejection fraction (EF) between the CABG and PCI groups at 1 week after surgery, However, after 6-month of follow-up, the CABG group had a significantly lower rate of coronary artery restenosis, lower incidence of MACEs, and better cardiac function than the PCI group. Within the CABG group, the left internal mammary artery (LIMA) subgroup had a lower restenosis rate than the saphenous vein graft (SVG) subgroup. In addition, patients who had received anti-syphilis therapy had a significantly lower restenosis rate than those without anti-syphilis therapy at 6-month post-surgery.

Compared with patients who received PCI, patients who received CABG had better prognoses. LIMA has a better therapeutic efficacy than SVG in terms of the restenosis rate, and anti-syphilis treatment significantly reduces the restenosis rate, compared with non-anti-syphilis treatment.
Efficacy and safety of azithromycin combined with glucocorticoid on refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children
Authors: Qiu Jian-Li , Huang Li , Shao Ming-Yi , Chai Yu-Na , Zhang Hui-Juan , Li Xiang-Feng , Sun Xiao-Xu , Zhao Qian-Yi , Duan Fei , Zhai Wen-Sheng
Published: May 2020

Introduction:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of azithromycin (AZI) combined with glucocorticoid (GC) in the treatment of children with refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

Methods:

Computer search for PubMed, EMbase, Cochrane Library, China Biomedical Literature Database (CBMdisc), China Knowledge Network (CNKI), Wanfang, VIP (VIP), and a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of AZI combined with GC in the treatment of children with refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia test (RCT), the search time limit is built until March 20, 2019. Two researchers independently performed literature screening, data extraction, and literature risk bias, and meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software.

Results:

A total of 12 RCTs were included, including 1130 patients. Meta-analysis showed that AZI combined with GC therapy significantly improved the total effective rate of the disease compared with the conventional treatment group (odds ratio [OR] = 6.37; 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.03, 10.07; P < .00001; I
2 = 0%), effectively shortened the antipyretic time (SMD = −2.29; 95% CI −2.70, −1.88; P < .0001); promoted lung inflammation absorption (SMD = −1.89; 95% CI −2.38, −1.40; P < .0001), reduced cough time (SMD = −2.39; 95% CI −2.80, −1.99; P < .0001); shortened hospital stay (SMD = −2.19; 95% CI −3.21, −1.17; P < .0001); improved imaging findings (OR = 5.38; 95% CI 1.09, 26.51, P = .04); reduced inflammation index (SMD = −3.15; 95% CI −4.93, −1.36; P = .004); improved immune function (SMD = 1.29; 95% CI −0.02, 2.60; P < .0001); had no significant adverse reactions (OR = 1.18; 95% CI 0.71, 1.98; P = .53).

Conclusions:

According to the current limited research evidence, the addition of GCs to the conventional treatment of refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children can improve the clinical efficacy to a certain extent, and the safety is better. However, due to the quality and quantity of the included literature, the conclusions of this study need to be confirmed by more high-quality studies.
Analysis of factors related to fertility after endometriosis combined with infertility laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Hui Yuehong , Zhao Shaojie , Gu Jinsong , Hang Chen
Published: May 2020

To investigate the influence factors of laparoscopic postoperative pregnancy of patients with endometriosis and infertility, further validate the application of EFI scoring system in endometriosis, and to improve the pregnancy rate.

A total of 258 patients with endometriosis and infertility who underwent laparoscopic surgery and follow-up treatment at Wuxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January 2015 to December 2016 were selected and divided into pregnant and non-pregnant groups according to whether they were pregnant. All patients were divided into 4 groups according to EFI score: group with EFI score ≥9, 7–8, 4–6, and <4, and divided into I, II, III, and IV groups according to AFS stages. The uterus-laparoscopic surgery was performed. The patients were followed up for 3 years. The factors affecting the pregnancy rate were analyzed. The pregnancy rate and pregnancy types were calculated at different time points.

Multivariate analysis showed that age <35 years, infertility time <5 years, secondary infertility, EFI score, postoperative ART application were protection factors of postoperative pregnancy. The 3-year cumulative postoperative pregnancy rate was 75.6%. The cumulative pregnancy rate was 92.2% in group with EFI score ≥9, 85.9% in group with EFI score 7–8, 62.5% in group with EFI score 4–6 and 5.9% in group with EFI score <4, there was significant difference between the 4 groups (P < .05). The proportion of pregnancies in 6 months and 12 months was higher in patients with EFI score ≥7, 61.0% in patients with EFI score ≥9 and 41.1% in patients with EFI score ≥7. The highest natural pregnancy rate was 83.1% in group with EFI score ≥9, and there was significant difference between the 4 groups (P < .05).

Age <35 years, infertility time <5 years, secondary infertility, EFI score and ART application were the protective factors of postoperative pregnancy. EFI score had positive significance in predicting and guiding the postoperative pregnancy of patients with endometriosis and infertility. According to EFI score, the pregnancy rate of patients with endometriosis and infertility can be significantly improved by strict management and active pregnancy program.
Acupuncture treatment for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
Authors: Huang Yueping , Zhang Rui , Yao Qin , Liu Jinyi , OuYang Xiali , Hui Xin , Wang Hao , He Rui , Zhao Baixiao
Published: May 2020

Background:

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) make many patients have negative adherence of treatment. Acupuncture has been widely applied in treatment of CINV, but its efficacy has not been evaluated scientifically and systematically in recent years. Hence, evaluating the safety and effectiveness of acupuncture treatment in patients with CINV is the main purpose of this review.

Methods and analysis:

We will search the following electronic databases from inception to Mar 2020: the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, PubMed, the Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), Wan-Fang Database and Chinese Scientific Journal Database (VIP database). All published academic data about clinical randomized controlled trials in English or Chinese related to acupuncture for treating CINV will be obtained. The primary outcomes are defined as frequency and severity of CINV during chemotherapy. The secondary outcomes are defined as any adverse events and quality of life of CINV during chemotherapy. The study selection, data extraction, and assessment of study quality will be conducted by 2 researchers independently. Review Manager Software (RevMan) V.5.3 will be performed for meta-analysis.

Results:

The results of this review will provide a high-quality synthesis of current available evidence to evaluate acupuncture is an effective and safe treatment for CINV.

Conclusion:

The conclusion of this review will provide the highest level of evidence to judge whether acupuncture is an effective and safe treatment for patients suffered from CINV.

PROSPERO registration number:

CRD42020153993.
Efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine for Coronavirus disease 2019
Authors: Yang Maoyi , Hu Zhipeng , Yue Rensong
Published: May 2020

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). There is no specific cure for this disease, and the clinical management mainly depends on supportive treatment. Traditional Chinese medicines (CHM) is widely used in treating COVID-19 in China.

Methods:

A comprehensive literature search will be conducted. Two methodological trained researchers will read the title, abstract, and full texts and independently select the qualified literature according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. After assessment of the risk of bias and data extraction, we will conduct meta-analyses for outcomes related to COVID-19. The heterogeneity of data will be investigated by Cochrane χ2 and I

2
tests. Then publication bias assessment will be conducted by funnel plot analysis and Egger test.

Results:

The results of our research will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Conclusion:

Our study aims to systematically present the clinical evidence of CHM in the treatment of COVID-19, which will be of guiding significance for further research and clinical practice.

OSF registration number:

10.17605/OSF.IO/H7GMU.
Successful dabigatran reversal after subdural hemorrhage using idarucizumab in a mobile stroke unit
Authors: Thirunavukkarasu Sibi , Kalashyan Hayrapet , Jickling Glen , Jeerakathil Thomas Joseph , Jayaprakash Harsha Kamble , Buck Brian H. , Shuaib Ashfaq , Butcher Ken
Published: May 2020

Rationale:

Idarucizumab is a specific reversal agent for patients with bleeding related to the anticoagulant dabigatran. There are no prior descriptions of Idarucizumab administration in the prehospital setting for intracranial hemorrhage.

Patient concerns:

An 82-year-old woman treated with dabigatran for atrial fibrillation developed acute focal weakness. This led to activation of emergency medical services and assessment in the mobile stroke unit (MSU).

Diagnosis:

Computed tomography of the brain performed in the MSU revealed an acute subdural hematoma.

Interventions:

The patient was treated with Idarucizumab in the MSU.

Outcomes:

The subdural hematoma was treated with a burr hole evacuation and the patient was discharged to a rehabilitation facility without residual focal neurological deficits.

Lessons:

Idarucizumab can be used safely and effectively to treat dabigatran-associated intracranial hemorrhage in the prehospital setting.