bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wastewater Surveillance for Infectious Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kilaru Pruthvi , Hill Dustin , Anderson Kathryn , Collins Mary B , Green Hyatt , Kmush Brittany L , Larsen David A
Published: October 2022

Wastewater surveillance for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been shown to be a valuable source of information regarding SARS-CoV-2 transmission and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases. Although the method has been used for several decades to track other infectious diseases, there has not been a comprehensive review outlining all of the pathogens that have been surveilled through wastewater. Herein we identify the infectious diseases that have been previously studied via wastewater surveillance prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Infectious diseases and pathogens were identified in 100 studies of wastewater surveillance across 38 countries, as were themes of how wastewater surveillance and other measures of disease transmission were linked. Twenty-five separate pathogen families were identified in the included studies, with the majority of studies examining pathogens from the family Picornaviridae, including polio and nonpolio enteroviruses. Most studies of wastewater surveillance did not link what was found in the wastewater to other measures of disease transmission. Among those studies that did, the value reported varied by study. Wastewater surveillance should be considered as a potential public health tool for many infectious diseases. Wastewater surveillance studies can be improved by incorporating other measures of disease transmission at the population-level including disease incidence and hospitalizations.
OC-035 TEST METHODS FOR SURGICAL MESHES - AN INDUSTRY POINT OF VIEW
Authors: Weis C , Lecuivre J , Batke B
Published: October 2022

Aim

No standardized test methods currently exist for the characterization of the synthetic surgical meshes used in hernia repair and soft tissue reinforcement.

While each mesh manufacturer developed their own test methods for comparative analysis, these were never harmonized across industry. A subgroup of the European Association of the Surgical Suture Industry (EASSI) was constituted, the Standardization of Surgical Meshes Working Group (SSM WG) with the objective to reach alignment of surgical meshes test methods.

Materials & Methods

The SSM WG agreed on the test methods that should be defined to provide a thorough in-vitro-characterization and comparison of surgical meshes.

After several interlaboratory iterations, the group established common test protocols which may be performed by people with limited textile background.

Extensive inter-laboratory test method verifications were then performed by conducting tests with different specimens by all manufacturers in a consistent manner.

Results

Common protocols were defined for the following test methods: Linear Tensile Test (Strength and elongation), Burst Test (Strength and displacement), Suture Pull-Out Test (Strength), Pore Size Measurement (Porosity and pore dimensions).

4 meshes were tested by each of the 4 involved manufacturers to assess the protocols validity. Despite methods harmonization, differences could be observed between laboratories.

Conclusion

The SSM WG recommends following the test protocols described and to maximize the sample size. Due to high sensitivity of specimen and difference in equipment used, only results of tests performed by a single testing center using identical testing features for all tested meshes should be compared.
Assigning species information to corresponding genes by a sequence labeling framework
Authors: Luo Ling , Wei Chih-Hsuan , Lai Po-Ting , Chen Qingyu , Islamaj Rezarta , Lu Zhiyong
Published: October 2022

The automatic assignment of species information to the corresponding genes in a research article is a critically important step in the gene normalization task, whereby a gene mention is normalized and linked to a database record or an identifier by a text-mining algorithm. Existing methods typically rely on heuristic rules based on gene and species co-occurrence in the article, but their accuracy is suboptimal. We therefore developed a high-performance method, using a novel deep learning-based framework, to identify whether there is a relation between a gene and a species. Instead of the traditional binary classification framework in which all possible pairs of genes and species in the same article are evaluated, we treat the problem as a sequence labeling task such that only a fraction of the pairs needs to be considered. Our benchmarking results show that our approach obtains significantly higher performance compared to that of the rule-based baseline method for the species assignment task (from 65.8–81.3% in accuracy). The source code and data for species assignment are freely available.

Database URL https://github.com/ncbi/SpeciesAssignment
Work–life interference and physician-certified sick leave: a prospective study of a general working population
Authors: Marti Andrea R , Degerud Eirik , Sterud Tom
Published: October 2022

Background

Work–life interference has been associated with adverse health outcomes. Here, we quantify the association between work–life interference and subsequent sick leave.

Methods

Respondents from a randomly drawn cohort of the general working Norwegian population were interviewed in 2009, 2013 and/or 2016. Mixed-effects logistic regression models were used to assess prospective associations of self-reported work–life interference and risk of subsequent physician-certified sick leave of 1–16 days (low-level) and >16 days (high-level) in strata of men and women. To quantify the importance of work–life interference as risk factors for sick leave, we estimated the population attributable risk (PAR).

Results

Both low- and high-level sick leave were most prevalent among women while the prevalence of work–life interference was similar between sexes. Risk of sick leave was higher among women reporting work–life interference sometimes or often in comparison with seldom or never {low- and high-level sick leave odds ratio (OR) = 1.21 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.07–1.37] and 1.30 (95% CI = 1.14–1.49), respectively}. The associations for high-level sick leave progressively increased with the level of work–life interference [highest OR = 1.44 (95% CI = 1.19–1.75)]. In men, there was no consistent higher risk of sick leave according to more frequent work–life interference [low- and high-level sick leave OR = 1.00 (95% CI = 0.87–1.14) and 0.98 (95% CI = 0.84–1.16), respectively], but the risk of high-level sick leave tended to be higher among men reporting work–life interference often (OR = 1.21, 95% CI = 0.98–1.50). Estimating PAR, 6.69% (95% CI = 1.52–11.74) of low-level and 9.94% (95% CI = 4.22–15.45) of high-level sick leave could be attributed to work–life interference among women.

Conclusions

Self-reported work–life interference was associated with a higher risk of sick leave, with the most consistent results among women.
Network regression analysis for binary and ordinal categorical phenotypes in transcriptome-wide association studies
Authors: Zhang Liye , Ju Tao , Jin Xiuyuan , Ji Jiadong , Han Jiayi , Zhou Xiang , Yuan Zhongshang
Published: October 2022

Transcriptome-wide association studies aim to integrate genome-wide association studies and expression quantitative trait loci mapping studies for exploring the gene regulatory mechanisms underlying diseases. Existing transcriptome-wide association study methods primarily focus on 1 gene at a time. However, complex diseases are seldom resulted from the abnormality of a single gene, but from the biological network involving multiple genes. In addition, binary or ordinal categorical phenotypes are commonly encountered in biomedicine. We develop a proportional odds logistic model for network regression in transcriptome-wide association study, Proportional Odds LOgistic model for NEtwork regression in Transcriptome-wide association study, to detect the association between a network and binary or ordinal categorical phenotype. Proportional Odds LOgistic model for NEtwork regression in Transcriptome-wide association study relies on 2-stage transcriptome-wide association study framework. It first adopts the distribution-robust nonparametric Dirichlet process regression model in expression quantitative trait loci study to obtain the SNP effect estimate on each gene within the network. Then, Proportional Odds LOgistic model for NEtwork regression in Transcriptome-wide association study uses pointwise mutual information to represent the general relationship among the network nodes of predicted gene expression in genome-wide association study, followed by the association analysis with all nodes and edges involved in proportional odds logistic model. A key feature of Proportional Odds LOgistic model for NEtwork regression in Transcriptome-wide association study is its ability to simultaneously identify the disease-related network nodes or edges. With extensive realistic simulations including those under various between-node correlation patterns, we show Proportional Odds LOgistic model for NEtwork regression in Transcriptome-wide association study can provide calibrated type I error control and yield higher power than other existing methods. We finally apply Proportional Odds LOgistic model for NEtwork regression in Transcriptome-wide association study to analyze bipolar and major depression status and blood pressure from UK Biobank to illustrate its benefits in real data analysis.
Clinician adherence to pharmacogenomics prescribing recommendations in clinical decision support alerts
Authors: Nguyen Jenny Q , Crews Kristine R , Moore Ben T , Kornegay Nancy M , Baker Donald K , Hasan Murad , Campbell Patrick K , Dean Shannon M , Relling Mary V , Hoffman James M , Haidar Cyrine E
Published: October 2022

Thoughtful integration of interruptive clinical decision support (CDS) alerts within the electronic health record is essential to guide clinicians on the application of pharmacogenomic results at point of care. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital implemented a preemptive pharmacogenomic testing program in 2011 in a multidisciplinary effort involving extensive education to clinicians about pharmacogenomic implications. We conducted a retrospective analysis of clinicians’ adherence to 4783 pharmacogenomically guided CDS alerts that triggered for 12 genes and 60 drugs. Clinicians adhered to the therapeutic recommendations provided in 4392 alerts (92%). In our population of pediatric patients with catastrophic illnesses, the most frequently presented gene/drug CDS alerts were TPMT/NUDT15 and thiopurines (n = 3850), CYP2D6 and ondansetron (n = 667), CYP2D6 and oxycodone (n = 99), G6PD and G6PD high-risk medications (n  = 51), and CYP2C19 and proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole and pantoprazole; n = 50). The high adherence rate was facilitated by our team approach to prescribing and our collaborative CDS design and delivery.
Flesh Flies (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) From the Brazilian Amazonian Savannas, a Poorly Sampled and Threatened Environment
Authors: Carvalho-Filho Fernando S , Barbosa Rodrigo R , Favacho César A C , De-Souza Caroline C
Published: October 2022

The Amazonian region is composed by many kinds of environments, including the Amazonian savannas, which comprise about 5% of the Amazon biome in Brazil. The biota of Amazonian savannas is poorly known, especially for insects. In this study, we performed a faunistic inventory of flesh flies (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) of four Brazilian Amazon savannas, where we recorded two subfamilies, 16 genera, and 40 species, two of which are described as new to science: Lepidodexia (Notochaeta) helenae sp. nov. and Lipoptilocnema augustoi sp. nov. Oxysarcodexia graminifoliaSouza, Pape & Thyssen, 2020 is recorded for the first time for Brazil. Dexosarcophaga paulistanaLopes (1982), Helicobia biplagiataDodge, 1966, Helicobia cearensisTibana, 1976, Oxysarcodexia simplicoides (Lopes, 1933), and Oxyvinia excisa (Lopes, 1950) are newly recorded for the Brazilian Amazon. Oxysarcodexia nitidaSoares & Mello-Patiu, 2010 is a new record for the state of Pará. The species D. paulistana is redescribed, and photographs and detailed illustrations of male terminalia are provided.
A dense mini-Neptune orbiting the bright young star HD 18599
Authors: Vines Jose I , Jenkins James S , Berdiñas Zaira , Soto Maritza G , Díaz Matías R , Alves Douglas R , Tuomi Mikko , Wittenmyer Robert A , de Leon Jerome Pitogo , Peña Pablo , Lissauer Jack J , Ballard Sarah , Bedding Timothy , Bowler Brendan P , Horner Jonathan , Jones Hugh R A , Kane Stephen R , Kielkopf John , Plavchan Peter , Shporer Avi , Tinney C G , Zhang Hui , Wright Duncan J , Addison Brett , Mengel Matthew W , Okumura Jack , Samadi-Ghadim Anya
Published: October 2022

Very little is known about the young planet population because the detection of small planets orbiting young stars is obscured by the effects of stellar activity and fast rotation, which mask planets within radial velocity and transit data sets. The few planets that have been discovered in young clusters generally orbit stars too faint for any detailed follow-up analysis. Here, we present the characterization of a new mini-Neptune planet orbiting the bright (V = 9) and nearby K2 dwarf star, HD 18599. The planet candidate was originally detected in TESS light curves from sectors 2, 3, 29, and 30, with an orbital period of 4.138 d. We then used HARPS and FEROS radial velocities, to find the companion mass to be 25.5$\pm$4.6 $M_{\oplus }$. When we combine this with the measured radius from TESS of 2.70$\pm$0.05 $R_{\oplus }$, we find a high planetary density of 7.1$\pm$1.4 g cm$^{-3}$. The planet exists on the edge of the Neptune Desert and is the first young planet (300 Myr) of its type to inhabit this region. Structure models argue for a bulk composition to consist of 23 per cent H$_2$O and 77 per cent Rock and Iron. Future follow-up with large ground- and space-based telescopes can enable us to begin to understand in detail the characteristics of young Neptunes in the galaxy.
Children’s water intake and hydration: a public health issue
Authors: Chouraqui Jean-Pierre
Published: October 2022

Optimal hydration is required for all physiologic functions and cognition. Children, especially younger ones, are particularly susceptible to dehydration, given their physiological specificities, in particular, their renal immaturity and relatively large skin surface in early life, but also their dependence on adults and their greater propensity to develop digestive diseases leading to fluid losses. Mild dehydration consequences are dominated by their impact on cognitive functions, whereas more severe dehydration may endanger the health outcome. Studies on this subject in children are scarce; in particular, the long-term consequence on renal function remains questionable. This review considers how children’s water intake including fluid intake and water content of food, are worrying. The findings show that, worldwide, most children do not meet adequate water intake recommendations. The main problems likely to explain insufficient water intake are access to safe water, availability of drinking water at school, and healthy-hydration education, which are all points that need to be improved within health policy.
Molecular diagnostic of complicated pneumonia in the post-vaccine era
Authors: de Vasconcelos Mariana Galvão Gurgel Cabral , Jarovsky Daniel , Nunes Gabriela Zembruski , Tridente Daniela Marinho , Grill Juliana Amorim Teixeira , Berezin Eitan Naaman
Published: October 2022

Background

The etiological diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is still a challenge. We compared the conventional culture method and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for the identification of Streptococcus pneumoniae in severe pediatric CAP.

Methods

A retrospective hospital-based study was conducted. From 2012 to 2018, we have selected patients who had peripheral blood and/or pleural fluid collected for etiological investigation by RT-PCR.

Results

We included 113 children (median age: 3 years; interquartile range 1–6 years). RT-PCR increased the detection rate of S. pneumoniae by 6.5 times using blood samples and eight times using pleural fluid samples. Patients subjected to RT-PCR showed more prolonged hospitalization (p = 0.006), fewer comorbidities (p = 0.03), presence of pleural effusion (p = 0.001), presence of young forms of leukocytes (p = 0.001) and radiograph with characteristics of pneumonia (p = 0.002). The presence of pleural effusion [odds ratio (OR) = 14.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.6–133.9; p = 0.01] and young forms of leukocytes (OR = 8.9, 95% CI 0.9–84.4; p = 0.05) were risk factors for positive RT-PCR pneumococcal when multivariate analysis was performed.

Conclusions

RT-PCR is a reliable method for diagnosing severe CAP using sterile materials and a potentially applicable method in patients with clinical, radiological and non-specific laboratory characteristics of lower respiratory tract infection, especially in complicated cases with pleural effusion.
Impact of interpregnancy intervals on perinatal and neonatal outcomes in a multiethnic Pakistani population
Authors: Murtaza Khadija , Saleem Zahra , Jabeen Saliha , Alzahrani A Khuzaim , Kizilbash Nadeem , Soofi Sajid Bashir , Shirazi Haider , Yasin Amanullah , Malik Sajid
Published: October 2022

Background

Short birth intervals (SBIs) and long birth intervals (LBIs) have been shown to have serious implications for health of both mothers and their children. This study was aimed to investigate the determinants and reproductive outcome of SBI and LBI in a multiethnic Pakistani population.

Methods

In a cross-sectional prospective study design, 2798 women admitted in a tertiary-care hospital in Islamabad for delivery were recruited and data on second or higher birth order deliveries were collected. Birth intervals were defined as short (<24 months) and long (>36 months). The reproductive outcome was defined in terms of perinatal and neonatal mortalities, and neonatal complications. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

Pregnancies with SBI and LBI were observed in 20% and 24% of 2798 women, respectively. Women with SBI had increased odds of perinatal death [adjusted odd ratio (AOR): 1.50] and neonatal death (AOR: 1.47) as compared to women with optimal birth intervals, while women with LBI had slightly lower odds of perinatal deaths (AOR: 0.96), but increased odds of neonatal deaths (AOR: 1.12). Further, the pregnancies with both SBI and LBI were associated with increased odds of short body length, low birth weight, small head circumference and low APGAR score.

Conclusion

Nearly half of all pregnancies do not have optimal birth spacing albeit there is wide heterogeneity in the distribution of BI in various Pakistani ethnicities. Pregnancies with SBI and LBI had high risk of adverse reproductive outcome. Intervention programs for maternal and child health need to emphasize optimal birth spacing.
Preoperative β-Blocker Therapy and Stroke or Major Adverse Cardiac Events in Major Abdominal Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: McKenzie Nicholas L. , Ward R. Parker , Nagele Peter , Rubin Daniel S.
Published: October 2022

Background

Perioperative β-blocker therapy has been associated with increased risk of stroke. However, the association between β-blocker initiation before the day of surgery and the risk of stroke is unknown. The authors hypothesized there would be no association between preoperative β-blocker initiation within 60 days of surgery or chronic β-blockade (more than 60 days) and the risk of stroke in patients undergoing major abdominal surgery.

Methods

Data on elective major abdominal surgery were obtained from the IBM (USA) Truven Health MarketScan 2005 to 2015 Commercial and Medicare Supplemental Databases. Patients were stratified by β-blocker dispensing exposure: (1) β-blocker–naïve, (2) preoperative β-blocker initiation within 60 days of surgery, and (3) chronic β-blocker dispensing (more than 60 days). The authors compared in-hospital stroke and major adverse cardiac events between the different β-blocker therapy exposures.

Results

There were 204,981 patients who underwent major abdominal surgery. β-Blocker exposure was as follows: perioperative initiation within 60 days of surgery for 4,026 (2.0%) patients, chronic β-blocker therapy for 45,424 (22.2%) patients, and β-blocker–naïve for 155,531 (75.9%) patients. The unadjusted frequency of stroke for patients with β-blocker initiation (0.4%, 17 of 4,026) and chronic β-blocker therapy (0.4%, 171 of 45,424) was greater than in β-blocker–naïve patients (0.2%, 235 of 155,531; P < 0.001). After propensity score weighting, patients initiated on a β-blocker within 60 days of surgery (odds ratio, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.31 to 2.04; P = 0.757) or on chronic β-blocker therapy (odds ratio, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.65 to 1.15; P = 0.901) demonstrated similar stroke risk compared to β-blocker–naïve patients. Patients on chronic β-blocker therapy demonstrated lower adjusted risk of major adverse cardiac events compared to β-blocker–naïve patients (odds ratio, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.72 to 0.91; P = 0.007), despite higher unadjusted absolute event rate (2.6% [1,173 of 45,424] vs. 0.6% [872 of 155,531]).

Conclusions

Among patients undergoing elective major abdominal surgery, the authors observed no association between preoperative β-blocker initiation within 60 days of surgery or chronic β-blocker therapy and stroke.

Editor’s Perspective

What We Already Know about This Topic

What This Article Tells Us That Is New
COMBINED HAMARTOMA OF THE RETINA AND RETINAL PIGMENT EPITHELIUM AT PEDIATRIC AGE
Authors: Ozdek Sengul , Ucgul Ahmet Yucel , Hartnett M. Elizabeth , Akdogan Muberra , Sen Parveen , Bhende Muna , Besirli Cagri Giray , Karacorlu Murat , Dedania Vaidehi , Parolini Barbara , Mittal Sangeet , Banker Alay , El Rayes Ehab , Tawfik Mohamed , Wu Wei-Chi , Attiku Yamini , Hansen Eric , Portney David , Sarvaiya Chintan , Sahin Ozlem , Ozdemir Huseyin Baran , Gurelik Gokhan
Published: October 2022

Purpose:

To report outcomes of pediatric patients with combined hamartoma of the retina and the retina pigment epithelium followed up conservatively or after pars plana vitrectomy.

Methods:

This retrospective multicenter study included 62 eyes of 59 pediatric patients with combined hamartoma of the retina and the retina pigment epithelium from 13 different international centers with an average age of 7.7 ± 4.7 (0.3–17) years at the time of the diagnosis and having undergone pars plana vitrectomy or followed conservatively. At baseline and each visit, visual acuity values, optical coherence tomography for features and central foveal thickness, and tumor location were noted. Lesions were called as Zone 1, if it involves the macular and peripapillary areas, and the others were called as Zone 2 lesions.

Results:

Twenty-one eyes of 20 patients in the intervention group and 41 eyes of 39 patients in the conservative group were followed for a mean of 36.2 ± 40.4 (6–182) months. Best-corrected visual acuity improved in 11 (68.8%) of 16 eyes in the intervention group and 4 (12.9%) of 31 eyes in the conservative group (P < 0.001). The mean central foveal thickness decreased from 602.0 ± 164.9 µm to 451.2 ± 184.3 µm in the intervention group, while it increased from 709.5 ± 344.2 µm to 791.0 ± 452.1 µm in Zone 1 eyes of the conservative group. Posterior location of tumor, irregular configuration of the foveal contour and ellipsoid Zone defect in optical coherence tomography, subretinal exudate and prominent vascular tortuosity were associated with poor visual acuity.

Conclusion:

Vitreoretinal surgery is safe and effective in improving vision and reducing retinal distortion in Zone 1 combined hamartoma of the retina and the retina pigment epithelium in children.
Invasive Streptococcus Gallolyticus Infections in Infants At Texas Children’s Hospital: A 9-Year Retrospective Review
Authors: Orbea Marisa , Desai Nilesh , Foster Catherine
Published: October 2022

Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus is an unusual pathogen in infants, which causes sepsis and meningitis. We describe the clinical course and treatment of 15 infants with bacteremia and/or meningitis due to S. gallolyticus. Outcomes were favorable with limited neuroimaging findings. One-third of isolates displayed reduced susceptibility to penicillin highlighting the importance of performing antimicrobial susceptibility testing in infants with meningitis.
Surging ICU during COVID-19 pandemic: an overview
Authors: Arabi Yaseen M. , Myatra Sheila Nainan , Lobo Suzana M.
Published: October 2022

Purpose of review

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has posed great challenges to intensive care units (ICUs) across the globe. The objective of this review is to provide an overview on how ICU surging was managed during COVID-19 pandemic, with a special focus on papers published in the last 18 months.

Recent findings

From the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was apparent that the biggest challenge was the inequity of access to an adequately equipped and staffed ICU bed. The first wave was overwhelming; large surge of patients required critical care, resources were limited and non-COVID-19 care processes were severely compromised. Various approaches were used to address ICU staffing shortage and to expand the physical ICU space capacity. Because of restrictions to family visitations in most ICUs, the pandemic posed a threat to communication and family-centered ICU care. The pandemic, especially during the first wave, was accompanied by a high level of apprehension in the community, many uncertainties about clinical course and therapy and an influx of speculations and misinformation.

Although healthcare systems learned how to face some of the challenges with subsequent waves, the pandemic had persistent effects on healthcare systems.
Intensive care management of liver transplant recipients
Authors: Olson Jody C. , Subramanian Ram , Karvellas Constantine J.
Published: October 2022

Purpose of review

Liver transplantation remains the only definitive treatment for advanced liver disease and liver failure. Current allocation schemes utilized for liver transplantation mandate a ‘sickest first’ approach, thus most liver transplants occur in patients with severe systemic illness. For intensive care providers who care for liver transplant recipients, a foundation of knowledge of technical considerations of orthotopic liver transplantation, basic management considerations, and common complications is essential. This review highlights the authors’ approach to intensive care management of the postoperative liver transplant recipient with a review of common issues, which arise in this patient population.

Recent findings

The number of centers offering liver transplantation continues to increase globally and the number of patients receiving liver transplantation also continues to increase. The number of patients with advanced liver disease far outpaces organ availability and, therefore, patients undergoing liver transplant are sicker at the time of transplant. Outcomes for liver transplant patients continue to improve owing to advancements in surgical technique, immunosuppression management, and intensive care management of liver disease both pretransplant and posttransplant.

Given a global increase in liver transplantation, an increasing number of intensive care professionals are likely to care for this patient population. For these providers, a foundational knowledge of the common complications and key management considerations is essential.
Efficacy of Endoscopic Ultrasound-guided Celiac Plexus Neurolysis for Abdominal Pain in Patients With Unresectable Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Okita Muneyori , Otani Kazuki , Matsui Shigeyuki
Published: October 2022

Goals:

We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis to investigate the effect of endoscopic ultrasound-guided celiac plexus neurolysis added to medical management (EUS-CPN+MM) compared with MM, percutaneous CPN (P-CPN)+MM, or intraoperative CPN (I-CPN)+MM for abdominal pain associated with unresectable pancreatic cancer.

Background:

Many approaches to CPN have been proposed since 1919. EUS-CPN, which is less invasive and safer than traditional procedures, has been preferred recently, but the superiority of EUS-CPN+MM has not been fully investigated.

Study:

We performed searches of PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on March 16, 2021. We conducted the network meta-analysis using a frequentist weighted least-squares approach. We used a random-effects model to synthesize the primary outcome, defined as the mean difference between treatment groups in standardized pain intensity scores at 4 and 12 weeks.

Results:

We selected 10 RCTs involving 662 individuals. At 4 weeks, the estimated mean difference between the EUS-CPN+MM and MM groups was −1.30 (95% CI: −2.19 to −0.41) in favor of EUS-CPN+MM, and that between the EUS-CPN+MM and P-CPN+MM groups was −0.88 (95% CI: −1.82 to 0.06). At 12 weeks, the estimated mean difference between the EUS-CPN+MM and MM groups was −2.58 (95% CI: −3.68 to −1.48), and that between the EUS-CPN+MM and P-CPN+MM groups was −2.44 (95% CI: −4.03 to −0.84), both in favor of EUS-CPN+MM.

Conclusions:

The combination of EUS-CPN+MM was effective at 4 and 12 weeks, although the risk of bias in synthesized studies was generally high, necessitating careful interpretation.
Long-term Outcome of Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy in Esophageal Motility Disorders
Authors: Nabi Zaheer , Mandavdhare Harshal , Akbar Wahid , Talukdar Rupjyoti , Reddy Duvvur Nageshwar
Published: October 2022

Background and Aim:

Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) is an established treatment for achalasia. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to analyze the mid and long-term outcomes of POEM in esophageal motility disorders.

Methods:

Literature search was performed in databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane databases, and Google scholar from January 2010 to May 2021. The primary objective of the study was the clinical success (Eckardt score ≤3 or <4) at mid-term (30 to 60 mo) and long-term (>60 mo) follow-up after POEM. Secondary objectives included post-POEM gastroesophageal reflux (GER) as evaluated by symptoms, increased esophageal acid exposure, and reflux esophagitis.

Results:

Seventeen studies with 3591 patients were included in the review. Subtypes of motility disorders were type I (27%), type II (54.5%), type III (10.7%), distal esophageal spasm/Jackhammer esophagus (2%), and esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (17.5%). Pooled mean follow-up duration was 48.9 months (95% CI, 40.02-57.75). Pooled rate of clinical success at mid-term follow-up was 87% (95% CI, 81-91; I

2
, 86%) and long-term was 84% (95% CI, 76-89; I

2
, 47%). In nonachalasia motility disorders (esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction, distal esophageal spasm, and Jackhammer esophagus), pooled rate of clinical success was 77% (95% CI, 65-85; I

2
, 0%). GER as estimated by symptoms was 23% (95% CI, 19-27; I

2
, 74%), erosive esophagitis was 27% (95% CI, 18-38%; I

2
, 91%), and increased esophageal acid exposure was 41% (95% CI, 30-52; I

2
, 88%).

Conclusion:

POEM is a durable treatment option in cases with achalasia. One-fourth of patients suffer from erosive GER in the long-term and success rates are lower in nonachalasia esophageal motility disorders.
Medical Cannabis Use Patterns and Adverse Effects in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Greywoode Ruby , Cunningham Chinazo , Hollins Maegan , Aroniadis Olga
Published: October 2022

Goals:

To investigate medical cannabis (MC) use patterns and adverse effects in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Background:

MC is now legal in many states. Although previous studies suggest improvement in disease activity among IBD patients using MC, use patterns and adverse effects are unclear.

Study:

A cross-sectional anonymous survey was conducted (October 23, 2020 to January 24, 2021) among patients accessing MC dispensaries in New York and Minnesota. Eligibility criteria: age 18 years or older, selfreported IBD diagnosis, MC dispensary purchase. Survey questions included IBD characteristics, MC and healthcare utilization, and MC effects/adverse events. Participant characteristics were analyzed with descriptive statistics. Utilization patterns and symptoms before and after MC use were compared using the Stuart Maxwell test.

Results:

Of 236 respondents, overall IBD disease activity was mild-to-moderate. Most respondents (61.0%) took a biological. Median frequency of MC use was at least once within the past week. Most respondents used products with high Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol content (87.5%) through vape pens/cartridges (78.6%). Respondents reported fewer emergency room visits in the 12 months after versus before MC use (35.2 vs 41.5%, P<0.01) and less impact of symptoms on daily life. Most respondents reported euphoria with MC use (75.4%). The other common side effects were feeling drowsy, groggy, or with memory lapses (4.2%), dry mouth/eyes (3.4%), and anxiety/depression or paranoia (3.4%). Few respondents reported MC diversion (1.3%).

Conclusions:

MC users with IBD perceive symptom benefits and report decreased emergency room visits without serious adverse effects. Further studies are needed to confirm these results with objective measures of healthcare utilization and disease activity.
The gut microbiome: an overview of current trends and risks for paediatric populations
Authors: Sangiuolo Kara , Cheng Elaine , Terala Ananya , Dubrosa Fiona , Milanaik Ruth L.
Published: October 2022

Purpose of review

Gut health is an increasingly popular topic of discussion among scientists and the general population alike. As interest surrounding the gut microbiome grows, the accessibility to misinformation and unfounded gut health trends to youth is likely to emerge as a public health concern. The purpose of this review is to provide paediatricians with current information about the gut microbiome, as well as explanations and possible risks of the multitude of gut health trends that adolescents may be exposed to.

Recent findings

The gut microbiome is implicated in overall health by playing roles in digestion, immunity and mental health. Novel microbiome-related therapies, such as faecal microbiota transplants, and the gut-brain link show the therapeutic potential of the gut microbiome. However, unproven dietary fads and trends on social media are rampant as well, such as ginger juice shots. In addition, paediatric supplements meant to target gut health are unregulated, yet are highly marketed. Improperly applying these trends and diets may result in risks of malnutrition and body image issues for impressionable children.

Increased familiarity regarding the types of gut health trends and diets among young people will allow paediatricians to more effectively advise their patients about potential risks and good gut health practices. Paediatricians and caregivers serve as role models and educators with regard to children's perceptions and management of their gut and overall health.
Vascularized composite allotransplantation: emerging psychosocial issues in hand, face, and uterine transplant
Authors: Kumnig Martin , Järvholm Stina
Published: October 2022

Purpose of review

Currently, several research approaches warrant further attention, given the influence of psychosocial and bioethical issues on the success of upper extremity (UETx), face (FTx), and uterine transplantation (UTx). This review will highlight recent results of psychosocial and bioethical research in the field of vascularized composite allotransplantation (VCA), discuss most recent findings, provide information to guide future research approaches, and address the importance of a multicenter research approach to develop international standards.

Recent findings

Previously published reports have tried to identify psychosocial factors that are essential to predict psychosocial outcomes and guide posttransplant treatment after VCA procedures. These issues in VCA are receiving more attention but we are still at the beginning of a systematic investigation of these domains. This review article summarizes the emerging psychosocial issues in UeTx, FTx, and UTx by including recent literature and current clinical practice.

Even though different VCA procedures address different domains leading to specific psychosocial issues, common aspects impacting all forms of VCA would benefit of further coordination. These domains include clinical resources, public attitude and perception, bioethical considerations, adherence and rehabilitation, motives for VCA, information needs and multidisciplinary communication, body image, domains of quality of life, coping strategies, and follow-up care.
Effects of Acupressure on Lactation
Authors: Rosetti Miriam A. , Spatz Diane L.
Published: October 2022

Purpose:

To assess the effects of acupressure on lactation.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted via Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Embase, and PubMed using keyword search terms acupuncture, Tuina and breastfeeding, human lactation or human milk and excluded auricular. Inclusion criteria were articles in English with no restriction on publication date. We included acupuncture as well as acupressure to ensure that relevant articles were not missed.

Results:

After duplicates were removed, our initial search yielded 217 articles. Using the PRISMA checklist (Liberati et al., 2009), six articles met inclusion criteria (five research studies, one case study). Preliminary evidence suggests acupressure offers a promising and inexpensive method of enhancing secretory activation following cesarean and vaginal term and late preterm births, specifically when performed at acupoints CV 17, ST 18, and SI 1.

Clinical Implications:

Human milk is the optimal source of infant nutrition. Concern of low milk supply is most often cited as the cause for early supplementation with formula as well as early cessation of breastfeeding. Acupressure may be helpful in improving milk supply in early postpartum, but more research on acupressure and lactation is warranted.
Conjunctival attachment of a live tick (Ixodes species) in an infant: a rare case report with literature review
Authors: Mohammed Rawand F. , Abdulla Berun A. , Mohammed Shvan H. , Salih Rawezh Q. , Abdullah Hiwa O. , Salih Abdulwahid M. , Kakamad Fahmi H. , Noori Savo Sh.
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

The attachment of the tick to the conjunctiva of the host is a very rare entity. This study aims to report a rare case of a tick attached to the conjunctiva of a 10-month-old male infant.

Case presentation:

A 10-month-old infant presented to the emergency department brought in by his parents with right eye redness for the past 8 hours owing to the attachment of an unknown foreign body to the conjunctiva. General clinical examination revealed that the child was conscious and alert; redness of the right eye was visible. Under an ophthalmic microscope, the foreign body was found to be a tick. The tick was gently removed with a sterilized blunt forceps. Seven days follow-up revealed no ophthalmic or systemic complications.

Clinical discussion:

The infestation of ticks to the ocular tissues is considered a very rare entity in the literature, and the major manifestations are vasculitis, uveitis, keratitis, and conjunctivitis. In addition, sometimes the infestation may appear as an eyelid margin tumor when the tick embeds in the meibomian gland orifice.

Conclusion:

Conjunctival tick attachment presenting with the symptoms of eye redness and itching is an uncommon entity. The proper management is the complete removal of the tick using a blunt, medium-tip, angled forceps.
The Novel MyD88 Inhibitor TJ-M2010-5 Protects Against Hepatic Ischemia-reperfusion Injury by Suppressing Pyroptosis in Mice
Authors: Zou Zhimiao , Shang Runshi , Zhou Liang , Du Dunfeng , Yang Yang , Xie Yalong , Li Zeyang , Zhao Minghui , Jiang Fengchao , Zhang Limin , Zhou Ping
Published: October 2022

Background

. With the development of medical technology and increased surgical experience, the number of patients receiving liver transplants has increased. However, restoration of liver function in patients is limited by the occurrence of hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI). Previous studies have reported that the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) signaling pathway and pyroptosis play critical roles in the development of hepatic IRI.

Methods

. A mouse model of segmental (70%) warm hepatic IRI was established using BALB/c mice in vivo. The mechanism underlying inflammation in mouse models of hepatic IRI was explored in vitro using lipopolysaccharide- and ATP-treated bone marrow-derived macrophages. This in vitro inflammation model was used to simulate inflammation and pyroptosis in hepatic IRI.

Results

. We found that a MyD88 inhibitor conferred protection against partial warm hepatic IRI in mouse models by downregulating the TLR4/MyD88 signaling pathway. Moreover, TJ-M2010-5 (a novel MyD88 inhibitor, hereafter named TJ-5) reduced hepatic macrophage depletion and pyroptosis induction by hepatic IRI. TJ-5 treatment inhibited pyroptosis in bone marrow-derived macrophages by reducing the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, decreasing the release of high-mobility group box-1, and promoting endocytosis of lipopolysaccharide-high-mobility group box-1 complexes.

Conclusions

. Inhibition of MyD88 may protect the liver from partial warm hepatic IRI by reducing pyroptosis in hepatic innate immune cells. These results reveal the mechanism underlying the development of inflammation in partially warm hepatic IRI and the induction of cell pyroptosis.
New insights into the Immune TME of adult-type diffuse gliomas
Authors: Richard Quentin , Laurenge Alice , Mallat Michel , Sanson Marc , Castro-Vega Luis Jaime
Published: October 2022

Purpose of review

Adult-type diffuse gliomas are highly heterogeneous tumors. Bulk transcriptome analyses suggested that the composition of the tumor microenvironment (TME) corresponds to genetic and clinical features. In this review, we highlight novel findings on the intratumoral heterogeneity of IDH-wildtype and IDH-mutant gliomas characterized at single-cell resolution, and emphasize the mechanisms shaping the immune TME and therapeutic implications.

Recent findings

Emergent evidence indicates that in addition to genetic drivers, epigenetic mechanisms and microenvironmental factors influence the glioma subtypes. Interactions between glioma and immune cells contribute to immune evasion, particularly in aggressive tumors. Spatial and temporal heterogeneity of malignant and immune cell subpopulations is high in recurrent gliomas. IDH-wildtype and IDH-mutant tumors display distinctive changes in their myeloid and lymphoid compartments, and D-2HG produced by IDH-mutant cells impacts the immune TME.

The comprehensive dissection of the intratumoral ecosystem of human gliomas using single-cell and spatial transcriptomic approaches advances our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the immunosuppressed state of the TME, supports the prognostic value of tumor-associated macrophages and microglial cells, and sheds light on novel therapeutic options.
Recording brain activity with ear-EEG (cEEGrids)
Authors: Hölle Daniel , Bleichner Martin G.
Published: October 2022

The cEEGrid (ear-electroencephalography; ear-EEG) is an unobtrusive and comfortable electrode array affixed around the ear. It is suited to investigate brain activity outside of the laboratory for long durations. Previous research established that cEEGrids can be used to study various cognitive processes in and also beyond the lab, even for a whole day. To record high-quality ear-EEG data, careful preparation is necessary. In this protocol, we explain the steps needed for successful experimenting with cEEGrids: First, we show how to test the functionality of the cEEGrid prior to a recording. Second, we describe how to prepare the participant and to fit the cEEGrid, which is the most important step to record high-quality data. Third, we outline how to connect the cEEGrids to the amplifier and how to check the signal quality. In this protocol, we give best practice recommendations and tips that make cEEGrid recordings easier. If researchers follow this protocol, they are comprehensively equipped for experimenting with the cEEGrid in and beyond the lab.

The cEEGrid (ear-electroencephalography) allows to record brain activity in and beyond the lab for extended duration. In this protocol, we describe how to set up and record with cEEGrids.
Strategic validation of variants of uncertain significance inECHS1genetic testing
Authors: Kishita Yoshihito , Sugiura Ayumu , Onuki Takanori , Ebihara Tomohiro , Matsuhashi Tetsuro , Shimura Masaru , Fushimi Takuya , Ichino Noriko , Nagatakidani Yoshie , Nishihata Hitomi , Nitta Kazuhiro R , Yatsuka Yukiko , Imai-Okazaki Atsuko , Wu Yibo , Osaka Hitoshi , Ohtake Akira , Murayama Kei , Okazaki Yasushi
Published: October 2022

ECHS1is the causative gene for mitochondrial short-chain enoyl-CoA hydratase 1 deficiency. While genetic analysis studies have diagnosed numerous cases withECHS1variants, the increasing number of variants of uncertain significance (VUS) in genetic diagnosis is a major problem. Therefore, we constructed an assay system to verify VUS function. A high-throughput assay usingECHS1knockout cells was performed to index these phenotypes by expressing cDNAs containing VUS. The functional validation of VUS identified novel variants causing loss of ECHS1 function. Moreover, we identified cases with functionalECHS1defects through multi-omics analysis. We identified a synonymous substitution, p.P163=, and candidate pathogenic variants in the above validation experiments. In summary, this study uncovered newECHS1cases based on VUS validation and omics analysis; these analyses are applicable to functional evaluation of other genes associated with mitochondrial disease.
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody containing plasma improves outcome in patients with hematologic or solid cancer and severe COVID-19 via increased neutralizing antibody activity – a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Denkinger C.M. , Janssen M. , Schäkel U. , Gall J. , Leo A. , Stelmach P. , Weber S. F. , Krisam J. , Baumann L. , Stermann J. , Merle U. , Weigand M. A. , Nusshag C. , Bullinger L. , Schrezenmeier J.F. , Bornhäuser M. , Alakel N. , Witzke O. , Wolf T. , Vehreschild M. J.G.T. , Schmiedel S. , Addo M. M. , Herth F. , Kreuter M. , Tepasse P.-R. , Hertenstein B. , Hänel M. , Morgner A. , Kiehl M. , Hopfer O. , Wattad M.-A. , Schimanski C. C. , Celik C. , Pohle T. , Ruhe M. , Kern W. V. , Schmitt A. , Lorenz H.M. , Souto-Carneiro M. , Gaeddert M. , Halama N. , Meuer S. , Kräusslich H.G. , Müller B. , Schnitzler P. , Parthé S. , Bartenschlager R. , Gronkowski M. , Klemmer J. , Schmitt M. , Dreger P. , Kriegsmann K. , Schlenk R. F. , Müller-Tidow C.
Published: October 2022

Cancer patients are at high risk of severe COVID-19 with high morbidity and mortality. Further, impaired humoral response renders SARS-CoV-2 vaccines less effective and treatment options are scarce. Randomized trials using convalescent plasma are missing for high-risk patients. Here, we performed a multicenter trial (https://www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu/ctr-search/trial/2020-001632-10/DE) in hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 within four risk groups (1, cancer; 2, immunosuppression; 3, lab-based risk factors; 4, advanced age) randomized to standard of care (CONTROL) or standard of care plus convalescent/vaccinated anti-SARS-CoV-2 plasma (PLASMA). For the four groups combined, PLASMA did not improve clinically compared to CONTROL (HR 1.29;p=0.205). However, cancer patients experienced shortened median time to improvement (HR 2.50,p=0.003) and superior survival in PLASMA vs. CONTROL (HR 0.28;p=0.042). Neutralizing antibody activity increased in PLASMA but not in CONTROL cancer patients (p=0.001). Taken together, convalescent/vaccinated plasma may improve COVID-19 outcome in cancer patients unable to intrinsically generate an adequate immune response.