Prevalence of anti‐Parvovirus B19 IgG and IgM and Parvovirus B19 viremia in pregnant women in an urban area of northern Italy

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Prevalence of anti‐Parvovirus B19 IgG and IgM and Parvovirus B19 viremia in pregnant women in an urban area of northern Italy via Journal of Medical Virology Abstract Parvovirus B19 (B19V) infection in pregnancy is mostly asymptomatic, but can cause complications including abortion and foetal hydrops. Although its infection is ubiquitous, seroprevalence among pregnant women varies according to different geographical areas. Since seroprevalence data in Italy are limited, the prevalence of antibodies and DNA in pregnant women was evaluated retrospectively, correlating the clinical situation of mothers and newborns. One thousand eight hundred and ninety-three sequential sera were examined from pregnant women (60.8% in the first trimester, 16.6% in the second one and 22.6% in the third one, respectively) for anti-B19V IgG and IgM (confirmed by immunoblot); 1402 (74.1%) were of Italian origin and 491 (25.9%) non-Italian women. Molecular tests were used to search for viral genome. One thousand three hundred and fifteen (69.5%) samples were IgG-positive, 21 (1.1%) IgM-positive for and 578 (30.5%) non-immune. The difference in Ig G seroprevalence between Italian (71.1%) and non-Italian women (64.8%) was statistically significant. Of the 21 IgM-positive women, 16 were confirmed positive also by immunoblot (prevalence: 0.8%), of which 11 were viraemic (prevalence: 0.6%; mean 1.3x104 geq/mL). Mothers were asymptomatic, and the newborns had no clinical signs of congenital infection. IgG seroprevalence in Italy is high, with differences between Italian women and non-Italian women from geographic areas with lower endemic levels of B19V. The consistent migratory flows in place could lead to an increase in the number of susceptible women. The prevalence of viremia is low, and has not been associated with evident foetal damage at birth. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. View on Web

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SARS‐CoV‐2 ORF10 antagonizes STING‐dependent interferon activation and autophagy

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader SARS‐CoV‐2 ORF10 antagonizes STING‐dependent interferon activation and autophagy via Journal of Medical Virology Abstract A characteristic feature of COVID-19, the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection, is the dysregulated immune response with impaired type I and III interferon (IFN) expression and an overwhelming inflammatory cytokine storm. RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) and cGAS-STING signaling pathways are responsible for sensing viral infection and inducing IFN production to combat invading viruses. Multiple proteins of SARS-CoV-2 have been reported to modulate the RLR signaling pathways to achieve immune evasion. Although SARS-CoV-2 infection also activates the cGAS-STING signaling by stimulating micronuclei formation during the process of syncytia, whether SARS-CoV-2 modulates the cGAS-STING pathway requires further investigation. Here, we screened 29 SARS-CoV-2-encoded viral proteins to explore the viral proteins that affect the cGAS-STING signaling pathway and found that SARS-CoV-2 ORF10 targets STING to antagonize IFN activation. Overexpression of ORF10 inhibits cGAS-ST ING-induced IRF3 phosphorylation, translocation, and subsequent IFN induction. Mechanistically, ORF10 interacts with STING, attenuates the STING-TBK1 association, and impairs STING oligomerization and aggregation and STING-mediated autophagy; ORF10 also prevents the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-to-Golgi trafficking of STING by anchoring STING in the ER. Taken together, these findings suggest that SARS-CoV-2 ORF10 impairs the cGAS-STING signaling by blocking the translocation of STING and the interaction between STING and TBK1 to antagonize innate antiviral immunity. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. View on Web

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Hypothyroidism After Using Superior Thyroid Artery as A Recipient Artery

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Hypothyroidism After Using Superior Thyroid Artery as A Recipient Artery via The Laryngoscope The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the use of the superior thyroid artery (SThA) as a recipient vessel affect thyroid dysfunction in patients undergoing TPLE combined with hemithyroidectomy. Our study revealed there was no significant difference in the postoperative hypothyroidism between patients with SThA used and not. We suggest that even after hemithyroidectomy, with inferior thyroid arteries are preserved, the SThA can be used as a recipient vessel. Objective Superior thyroid artery (SThA) is a common recipient artery in free tissue transfer even after total pharyngolaryngoesophagectomy (TPLE) with hemithyroidectomy. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the use of SThA as a recipient vessel affect thyroid function in patients undergoing TPLE with hemithyroidectomy. Methods From 2011 to 2020, 91 patients who underwent free jejunum transfer after TPLE with hemithyroidectomy were divided into two groups. In Group1 (n = 47), the contralateral SThA was used for the anastomosis. In Group2 (n = 44), other vessels were used. Retrospective chart review was performed comparing postoperative thyroid function between two groups. Results In group1, 17 patients presented hypothyroidism, 21 presented latent hypothyroidism and 9 presented no thyroid dysfunction comparing 15, 19, and 10 respectively in group 2. There were no significant differences between the two groups. Conclusion Even after hemithyroidectomy, with inferior thyroid arteries are preserved, the SThA can be used as a recipient vessel. Level of Evidence 3 Laryngoscope, 2022 View on Web

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Magnetic Targeting of Gadolinium Contrast to Enhance MRI of the Inner Ear in Endolymphatic Hydrops

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Magnetic Targeting of Gadolinium Contrast to Enhance MRI of the Inner Ear in Endolymphatic Hydrops via The Laryngoscope This is the first study to magnetically target gadolinium contrast to the inner ear as an effective, minimally-invasive, local delivery technique that can be tracked by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Better accumulation of gadolinium contrast allows better visualization and quantification of endolymphatic hydrops. Objectives 1. Determine the feasibility and efficiency of local magnetic targeting delivery of gadolinium (Gad) contrast to the inner ear in rodents. 2. Assess any potential ototoxicity of magnetic targeting delivery of Gad in the inner ear. 3. Study the utility of magnetic targeting delivery of Gad to visualize and quantify endolymphatic hydrops (EH) in a transgenic mouse model. Study Design Controlled in vivo animal model study. Methods Paramagnetic Gad was locally delivered to the inner ear using the magnetic targeting technique in both rat and mouse models. Efficiency of contrast delivery was assessed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Ototoxicity of Gad was examined with histology of the cochlea and functional audiological tests. The Phex mouse model was used to study EH, hearing loss, and balance dysfunction. Magnetic targeting delivery of Gad contrast was used in the Phex mouse model to visualize the effects of EH using MRI. Results Magnetic targeting improved the delivery of Gad to the inner ear and the technique was reproducible in both rat and mouse models. The delivery method did not result in microstructural damage or any significant hearing loss in a normal animal. Magnetic targeting of Gad in the Phex mouse model allowed detailed visualization and quantification of EH. Conclusion This study provided the first evidence of the effectiveness and efficiency of the local magnetic targeting delivery of gadolinium contrast to the inner ear and its application to the visualization and quantification of EH. Laryngoscope, 2022 View on Web

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Endonasal access to the lateral poststyloid space: Far lateral extension of an endoscopic endonasal corridor

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Endonasal access to the lateral poststyloid space: Far lateral extension of an endoscopic endonasal corridor via Head & Neck Abstract The styloid process constitutes the posterolateral boundary for an endonasal exposure of the infratemporal fossa. This study aims to explore the feasibility of a far-lateral extension to the lateral poststyloid space via an endonasal corridor. An endonasal dissection was performed on six cadaveric specimens (12 sides). Following an endoscopic endonasal access to the parapharyngeal space, the styloid process and the tympanic portion of the temporal bone were removed to reveal the jugular bulb and the extratemporal facial nerve. Distances from the anterior nasal spine to the relevant landmarks were measured using a surgical navigation device. Through an endonasal corridor, only the anteroinferior aspect of the jugular bulb was exposed. Conversely, the extratemporal facial nerve could be sufficiently exposed, and the deep temporal nerve could be transposed to the stylomastoid foramen. The average horizontal distances from the nasal spine to the posterior tract of V3, stylo id process, and facial nerve were 79.33 ± 3.41, 97.10 ± 4.74, and 104.77 ± 4.42 mm, respectively. Access to the lateral poststyloid space via an endonasal corridor is feasible, potentially providing an alternative approach to address select lesions extending to this region. The deep temporal nerve has a similar diameter to that of the facial nerve; thus, providing potential reinnervation of the facial nerve. View on Web

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Retrograde peri‐implantitis: incidence and possible co‐existing factors. A retrospective analysis

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Retrograde peri‐implantitis: incidence and possible co‐existing factors. A retrospective analysis via Australian Dental Journal Abstract Objectives To evaluate the incidence of Retrograde peri-implantitis (RPI) generally and the incidence of RPI with an endodontic-treated adjacent tooth and/or a periapical radiolucency. Methods The retrospective case-control study included the follow-up periapical images of single dental implants. Two calibrated graduate endodontic residents evaluated simultaneously the presence of RPI and the adjacent teeth status (a previous root canal treatment (RCT) and the periapical status). Results Six hundred eleven dental implants were included in this study. Twenty-three implants with RPI were detected (the incidence of RPI was 3.7%). Thirty-one adjacent teeth to the implants with RPI were recognized. Out of them, seven teeth had a previous RCT and periapical radiolucency or no RCT and periapical radiolucency. The odds ratios for RPI in an implant with periapical radiolucency or with RCT at the adjacent tooth are 6.67 (95% CI 2.7-16.5), p<0.05; and 0.11 (95% CI 0.007 - 1.9), p>0.05 respectively. Conclusions Based on periapical radiographs, the RPI incidence was 3.7% in the present study. The incidence of RPI increased in cases with adjacent teeth that had periapical radiolucency. Previous RCT in teeth adjacent to implants without apical radiolucency is not correlated with RPI. © 2022 Australian Dental Association. View on Web

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Comparison of transfusion reactions in children and adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Comparison of transfusion reactions in children and adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis via Pediatric Blood & Cancer Abstract Background There are no international standards or normalizations for diagnosing and treating complications from blood transfusions. We comprehensively compared the incidence of adverse blood transfusions in children and adults. Methods Available literature on blood transfusion adverse reactions in children and adults prior to November 27, 2021 was collected from several electronic databases. This meta-analysis was performed using Revman 5.2 and Stata 15.1. Results The incidence of transfusion reactions is higher in children than in adults. Children transfused with red blood cells and platelets exhibited a higher incidence of transfusion reaction than that of adults. Moreover, the incidence of allergic and febrile non-hemolytic transfusion reactions was significantly higher in children than in adults. The incidence of some rare transfusion reactions was also significantly higher in children than in adults. Conclusion The incidence of transfusion reactions in children and adults is varied. Guidelines for children are necessary. View on Web

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Safety and value of pre‐transplant antibiotic allergy delabeling in a quaternary transplant center

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Safety and value of pre‐transplant antibiotic allergy delabeling in a quaternary transplant center via Transplant Infectious Disease Abstract Background Self-reported antibiotic allergies, also known as antibiotic allergy labels, are common and may lead to worse patient outcomes. Within immunocompromised patients, antibiotic allergy labels can lead to inappropriate use of antimicrobials and may limit options for prophylactic and therapeutic options in the post-transplant period. While antibiotic allergy delabeling is considered an important aspect of antibiotic stewardship protocols, evidence and awareness of its application in transplant recipients is limited. Methods We describe our experience with an antibiotic allergy delabeling intervention in the pre-transplant evaluation period and its impact on post-transplant antimicrobial utilization. This was a retrospective analysis of patients with an antibiotic allergy label who underwent evaluation for solid organ or stem cell transplantation between 2015–2020. Patients included in this analysis were those who completed pre-transplant antibiotic allergy delabeling through our Drug Allergy Clinic and were retained in care for six months after transplant. Results Twenty-six of 27 patients underwent pre-transplant antibiotic allergy delabeling and safely received the delabeled antibiotic post-transplant. There were no reported side effects to the delabeled antibiotic within 6 months post-transplant. Specific examination of sulfonamide (sulfa)-antibiotic delabeling showed cost savings of $254 to $2,910 per patient in the post-transplant period compared to the use of alternative antibiotics for prophylaxis protocol. Conclusion Antibiotic allergy delabeling prior to transplant is safe, is of high value, and should be considered in the pre-transplant evaluation period. More resources are needed for the development of delabeling guidelines and support for broad implementation of pre-transplant antibiotic allergy delabeling programs. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved View on Web

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Evaluation of soft tissue and labial plate of bone stability with immediate implant in direct contact versus gap with socket shield: A randomized clinical trial with 1 year follow‐up

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Evaluation of soft tissue and labial plate of bone stability with immediate implant in direct contact versus gap with socket shield: A randomized clinical trial with 1 year follow‐up via Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research Abstract Objective In the anterior region, the resorption of the buccal plate of bone after tooth extraction leads to contraction of the overlying soft tissues, resulting in an esthetic problem. In the socket shield technique, the buccal root section of the tooth is maintained, to preserve the buccal bone for immediate implant placement. The aim of this randomized clinical trial was to investigate the effect of leaving a gap or not between implant and retained root fragment on bone dimensions and soft tissue esthetics. Methods This was a two armed parallel group randomized clinical trial with allocation ratio 1:1. Patients were eligible in case they needed immediate implant replacing teeth in esthetic zone with sufficient buccal bone support. CBCT was performed immediately after the intervention and 12 months later. Results Forty six patients (26 females and 20 males) were enrolled in the study with 23 of them placed in contact with shield and 23 were placed palatal leaving a gap to graft with a xenograft. After 12 months, excellent soft tissue stability was reported (mean pink esthetic score at placement group A: 12.00 ± 1.60 after 12 months 12.90 ± 1.69, group B 12.62 ± 2.07 and after 12 months 12.38 ± 2.20) Using both surgical techniques. Radiographic crestal bone level changes mean for group A was −0.26 ± 0.52 and for group B -0.34 ± 0.31. There was a strong positive correlation between clinical and radiographic bone width values which was statistically significant (r = 0.782, p < 0.001). Width and thickness of keratinized gingiva showed no significant difference between values measured in both groups. Nonsignificant difference between studied groups according to the labial plate of bone clinical and radiographic changes after i mmediate implantation. Conclusion Within the limitations of this study, the present data seem to support that the clinical outcome of the socket shield technique with immediate implant placement placed in contact or leaving a gap gave excellent esthetic results. View on Web

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Differences in levothyroxine action on thyroid autoimmunity and hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis activity between metformin‐ and myo‐inositol‐treated women with autoimmune subclinical hypothyroidism

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Differences in levothyroxine action on thyroid autoimmunity and hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis activity between metformin‐ and myo‐inositol‐treated women with autoimmune subclinical hypothyroidism via Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics The impact of levothyroxine on thyroid antibody titers, thyrotropin, free thyroxine and free triiodothyronine is more pronounced in women with autoimmune subclinical hypothyroidism receiving metformin than myo-inositol. Abstract What is known and objective Insulin resistance impairs the impact of levothyroxine on thyroid autoimmunity and hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis activity. Both metformin and myo-inositol were found to improve insulin sensitivity and to reduce thyrotropin levels in individuals with hypothyroidism. The aim of the present study was to compare the effect of levothyroxine on thyroid autoimmunity and hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis activity between women receiving metformin and myo-inositol. Methods The study included two groups of women with autoimmune hypothyroidism, treated for at least 6 months with either metformin (group A; n = 25) or myo-inositol (group B; n = 25). Both groups were matched for age, insulin sensitivity, hormone levels and antibody titers. For the following 6 months, all women received levothyroxine. Plasma levels of glucose, insulin, thyrotropin, free thyroid hormones, prolactin, 25-hydroxyvitamin D and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), as well as titers of thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin antibodies were assessed at the beginning and at the end of the study. Results and discussion At baseline there were not differences between the study groups. Although levothyroxine reduced thyrotropin levels, increased free thyroid hormone levels and decreased antibody titers in both study groups, these effects were more pronounced in group A than group B. Only in group A, levothyroxine increased 25-hydroxyvitamin D, decreased hsCRP and improved insulin sensitivity. The impact of levothyroxine on thyrotropin and free thyroid hormones correlated with treatment-induced changes in insulin sensitivity, antibody titers, 25-hydroxyvitamin D and hsCRP. What is new and conclusion The present study suggests that the impact of levothyroxine on thyroid autoimmunity and hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis activity is stronger in women receiving metformin than in women treated with myo-inositol. View on Web

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