Differential avidity determination of IgG directed towards the receptor‐binding domain (RBD) of SARS‐CoV‐2 wildtype and its variants in one assay: Rational tool for the assessment of protective immunity.

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Differential avidity determination of IgG directed towards the receptor‐binding domain (RBD) of SARS‐CoV‐2 wildtype and its variants in one assay: Rational tool for the assessment of protective immunity. via Journal of Medical Virology Abstract The avidity (binding strength) of IgG directed towards the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of spike protein has been recognized as a central marker in SARS-CoV-2 serology. It seems to be linked to increased infection-neutralization potential and therefore might indicate protective immunity. Using a prototype line assay based on the established recomLine SARS-CoV-2 assay, supplemented with RBD of the delta and the omicron variant, differential avidity determination of IgG directed towards RBD of wild-type (WT) SARS-CoV-2 and distinct variants was possible within one assay. Our data confirm that natural SARS-CoV-2 infection or one vaccination step lead to low avidity IgG, whereas further vaccination steps gradually increase avidity to high values. High avidity is not reached by infection alone. After infection with WT SARS-CoV-2 or vaccination based on mRNA WT, the avidity of cross-reacting IgG directed towards RBD of the delta variant only showed marginal diffe rences compared to IgG directed towards RBD WT. In contrast, the avidity of IgG cross-reacting with RBD of the omicron variant was always much lower than for IgG RBD WT, except after the third vaccination step. Therefore, parallel avidity testing of RBD WT and omicron seems to be mandatory for a significant assessment of protective immunity towards SARS-CoV-2. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. View on Web

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New insight on the role of Helicobacter pylori cagA in the expression of cell surface antigens with important biological functions in gastric carcinogenesis

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader New insight on the role of Helicobacter pylori cagA in the expression of cell surface antigens with important biological functions in gastric carcinogenesis via Helicobacter Abstract Background Expression of cluster of differentiation (CD) antigens changes according to disease status and inflammation. Profiles of CD antigens expression in gastric cancer patients are different based on the status of H. pylori infection. Aims We conducted this study to profile CD antigen markers in gastric adenocarcinoma cells (AGS cell line) infected with distinct cytotoxin-associated gene A (cagA) genotypes of H. pylori clinical isolates. Methods The AGS cells were infected with H. pylori isolates with different cagA genotypes, and CD antigens expression was determined using DotScan™ antibody microarray. Formation of "hummingbird" phenotype was determined, and the percentage was calculated. Results H. pylori strains harboring cagA upregulated the expression of CD antigen involved in cancer stem cell formation (CD55), but downregulated CD antigens involved in immune regulation (CD40 and CD186) and cell adhesion (CD44). CD54 (neutrophil adhesion) and CD71 (iron transfer) were highly downregulated in the gastric cells infected with Western cagA isolates compared with East Asian isolates. CD antigen expression was different in the cells infected with H. pylori harboring different CagA EPIYA (Glu-Pro-Ile-Tyr-Ala) numbers, in which higher repression of CD54 and CD15 (Lewis x antigen) were observed in the isolate with the highest number of EPIYA motif. Furthermore, higher downregulation of CD15 was observed in the infected gastric cells with high percentage of "hummingbird" phenotype than that of low percentage of "hummingbird" phenotype. Conclusion Our study demonstrated the critical roles of CD antigens in the CagA pathogenesis and should be investigated further. View on Web

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Comparative study of DFAT cell and ADSC sheets for periodontal tissue regeneration:in vivo and in vitro evidence

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Comparative study of DFAT cell and ADSC sheets for periodontal tissue regeneration:in vivo and in vitro evidence via Journal of Clinical Periodontology Abstract Aim To compare the efficacy of adipocyte-derived dedifferentiated fat (DFAT) cell and adipose-derived stromal cell (ADSC) sheets for regenerative treatment of intrabony periodontal defects. Material and Methods DFAT cells were obtained using the ceiling culture method and were compared with ADSCs using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8), colony formation assay, surface antigen identification, and multilineage differentiation assays. DFAT and ADSC sheets were prepared in cell sheet culture medium. The biological characteristics of DFAT cell and ADSC sheets were compared using haematoxylin and eosin staining, quantitative reverse transcription PCR, and immunofluorescence staining. Micro-computed tomography and histological staining were used to compare the effects of the two cell sheets on the repair of periodontal intrabony defects in rats. Results DFAT cells and ADSCs demonstrated mesenchymal stem cell characteristics. Both cell type were CD29-, CD90-, and CD146-positive and CD31-, CD34-, and CD45-negative. DFAT cells and ADSCs exhibited similar osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation capabilities, and colony-formation ability. DFAT cells displayed stronger proliferation capabilities compared to ADSCs. Compared with the ADSC sheets, DFAT cell sheets exhibited a higher expression of periodontal-related genes and proteins and greater ability to regenerate periodontal tissue. Conclusion Our findings suggest that DFAT cell sheets are an ideal seed cell source and form of cell delivery for periodontal intrabony defects. View on Web

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The accuracies of three intraoral scanners with regards to shade determination: An in vitro study

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader The accuracies of three intraoral scanners with regards to shade determination: An in vitro study via Journal of Prosthodontics Abstract Purpose : To compare the accuracy of three intraoral scanners for shade determination function in vitro, and to preliminarily investigate the shade-matching characteristics of the three intraoral scanners. Materials & Methods The shade of the middle third region of each shade tab on the Vita Classical A1-D4 shade guide (VC) was measured by a spectrophotometer (Vita Easyshade V, VE) and three intraoral scanners, including CEREC Omnicam (OM), 3Shape TRIOS 3 (T3), and TRIOS 4 (T4). A conversion table between VC values and CIELAB values was established from the database of VE to analyze the trueness. The reproducibility of the instruments was then compared by repeating the measurements five times. Results : The mean color difference for each instrument was highest in the OM, followed by the T4, and lowest in the T3 and VE, repectively. The L* and a* value for OM, and the b* value for T4, were significantly different from those for VE (p <0.05). The reproducibility of the instrument was highest in the VE (Fleiss' kappa: 0.95), followed by the T3 (Fleiss' kappa: 0.89), T4 (Fleiss' kappa: 0.87), and OM (Fleiss' kappa: 0.78). Conclusions : Of the three intraoral scanners, the trueness was best on the T3. The reproducibility of all the instruments was excellent. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved View on Web

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TREM2‐induced activation of microglia contributes to synaptic integrity in cognitively intact aged individuals with Alzheimer's neuropathology

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader TREM2‐induced activation of microglia contributes to synaptic integrity in cognitively intact aged individuals with Alzheimer's neuropathology via Brain Pathology Efficient TREM2-phagocytic microglia underlie synaptic resilience in NDAN, removing damaged synpases, contributing to synaptic integrity and protecting from memory deficits. Abstract The existence of individuals who remain cognitively intact despite presenting histopathological signs of Alzheimer's disease (AD), here referred to as "Nondemented with AD neuropathology" (NDAN), suggests that some mechanisms are triggered to resist cognitive impairment. Exposed phosphatidylserine (ePS) represents a neuronal "eat-me" signal involved in microglial-mediated phagocytosis of damaged synapses. A possible mediator of this process is TREM2, a microglial surface receptor activated by ligands including PS. Based on TREM2 role in the scavenging function of microglia, we hypothesize that an efficient microglial phagocytosis of damaged synapses underlies synaptic resilience in NDAN, thus protecting from memory deficits. Using immunofluorescence microscopy, we performed a comparative study of human post-mortem frontal cortices of aged-matched, AD and NDAN individuals. We studied the distribution of activated microglia (IBA1, IBA1+/CD68+ cells) and phagocytic microglia-related proteins (TREM2, DAP12), demonstrating higher microglial activation and TREM2 expression in NDAN versus AD. A study of the preservation of synapses around plaques, assessed using MAP2 and βIII tubulin as dendritic and axonal markers, respectively, and PSD95 as a postsynaptic marker, revealed preserved axonal/dendritic structure around plaques in NDAN versus AD. Moreover, high levels of PSD95 around NDAN plaques and the colocalization of PSD95 with CD68 indicated a prompt removal of damaged synapses by phagocytic microglia. Furthermore, Annexin V assay on aged-matched, AD and NDAN individuals synaptosomes revealed increased levels of ePS in NDAN, confirming damaged synapses engulfment. Our results suggest a higher efficiency of TREM2-induced phagocytic microglia in removing damaged synapses, underlying synaptic resilience in NDAN individuals. View on Web

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A higher tumor volume and undernutrition at diagnosis adversely affect the survival of children with Wilms tumor: A study of 200 patients

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader A higher tumor volume and undernutrition at diagnosis adversely affect the survival of children with Wilms tumor: A study of 200 patients via Pediatric Blood & Cancer Abstract Background Distinct prognostic factors for Wilms tumor (WT) in low- and middle-income countries need identification. Methods Retrospective study of patients with WT managed by the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) approach for over 11 years (2005–2016) at a single center in Chandigarh, India. Results The study included 200 patients (median age: 33.5 months). The tumor stage (SIOP) distribution included stage I (30%), II (36%), III (14%), IV (17%), and V (3%). The histology-risk groups were low (8%), intermediate (84%), and high risk (9%). At diagnosis, 68 out of 190 (36%) patients were underweight. The median tumor volume at diagnosis was 481 ml (interquartile ratio [IQR]: 306.9, 686.8, n = 146). Following neoadjuvant chemotherapy, it reduced to 110 ml (IQR: 151.2, 222, n = 77). Treatment was abandoned in 20.5% of the patients. Treatment-related mortality occurred in 13 of 179 (7.2%) patients. Relapse occurred in 26 of 158 (16.5%) patients. The 3-year overall survival (OS) and event-free survival (EFS) of patients who completed therapy were 78.3 and 72%, respectively. The stage (p = .013) and histology (p = .023) influenced OS. A lower OS in stage II (75.4%) versus stage III disease (83.7%) suggested understaging. Patients with a higher tumor volume at diagnosis (p = .005; odds ratio [OR]: 0.99; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.99–1.00) or a lower weight-for-age z-score (p = .002; OR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.21–2.33) had an increased risk of death or relapse. Conclusions The 3-year OS and EFS of children who completed therapy were 78.3 and 72%, respectively. A higher tumor volume and lower weight-for-age z-score at diagnosis were identified as distinct adverse prognostic factors. A likely suboptimal lymph node assessment (intraoperative and histopathology) contributed to the understaging of stage III to II disease and reduced survival. View on Web

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Ridge augmentation using autologous concentrated growth factors enriched bone graft matrix versus guided bone regeneration using native collagen membrane in horizontally deficient maxilla: A randomized clinical trial

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Ridge augmentation using autologous concentrated growth factors enriched bone graft matrix versus guided bone regeneration using native collagen membrane in horizontally deficient maxilla: A randomized clinical trial via Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research Abstract Background Facial resorption of maxillary alveolar ridges is a challenging situation for implant rehabilitation, which mandates a preparatory surgery of bone augmentation. Guided bone regeneration using a 1:1 mixture of autogenous particulate and anorganic bovine bone mineral (ABBM) showed reliable outcomes in treating horizontally deficient ridges. Methods Twenty-eight patients were randomly assigned into two groups; in the control group, the 1:1 mixture of particulate autogenous bone and ABBM was covered with native collagen membrane, while in the study group, it was mixed with autologous fibrin glue (AFG) to make a sticky bone that was covered by concentrated growth factor (CGF) membrane. For each proposed implant site, the average bone width gain was calculated preoperatively, immediately after augmentation and after 6 months. Implants were placed after 6 months and the implant stability quotient (ISQ) was measured after insertion and after 6 more months. Results The graft consolidation period went uneventful in both groups; however, two cases in the sticky bone group showed total resorption of the graft upon re-entry. The mean horizontal bone width after 6 months was 9 mm ± 0.71 in the guided bone regeneration (GBR) group which was higher than 7.9 mm ± 0.92 for the sticky bone group. The mean primary stability was higher in the GBR group; 67.19 ± 2.23 compared to 66.7 ± 3.22 for the sticky bone group, while the mean secondary stability was higher in the sticky bone group; 72 ± 2.15 compared to 71.7 ± 2.27 for the GBR group. Results of Shapiro–Wilk's for bone width data and model residuals were both statistically not significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion Comparing CGF membrane versus native collagen membrane as barriers for GBR showed no statistically significant difference regarding bone gain. However, from a clinical point of view, CGF membrane is not a predictable barrier for guided bone regeneration. View on Web

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Early marginal bone loss around dental implants to define success in implant dentistry: A retrospective study

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Early marginal bone loss around dental implants to define success in implant dentistry: A retrospective study via Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research Abstract Purpose The aim of this study was to establish an objective criterion in terms of marginal bone level (MBL) to know the prognosis of an implant. Materials and Methods A group of 176 patients in whom 590 implants were placed were included in this retrospective study. Patients older than 18 years, presenting either Kennedy class I or II edentulous section, or totally edentulous at least in one of the dental arches were included in this study. Those with any type of disturbance able to alter bone metabolism or with nontreated periodontal disease were excluded. Data on radiographic MBL at loading, 6 and 18 months later, age, gender, smoking habits, history of periodontitis, bone substratum, implant, and prosthetic features were recorded. Nonparametric receiver operating curves (ROC) were constructed for the MBL at 18 months in order to establish a distinction among high bone loser (HBL) and low bone loser (LBL) implants. Differences as a function of main variables were also determined, particularly abutment height and periodontal disease. Results HBL implants lost at least 0.48 mm of MBL 6 months after loading; they reached at least 2 mm of MBL 18 months after loading. MBL rate followed a nonlinear trend, except in implants restored over long prosthetic abutments and in patients with history of severe periodontitis; in whom the rate of MBL over the time was nearly zero. Conclusion Implants that lose more than 0.5 mm of marginal bone 6 months after loading are at great risk of not being radiographically successful anymore. Therefore, 0.5 mm of MBL is proposed as a distinctive and objective criterion of success in Implant Dentistry within a 6-month follow-up period. A prosthetic abutment height ≥2 mm resulted the most protective factor in the peri-implant bone maintenance. View on Web

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Documentation in Pediatric Microlaryngoscopy/Bronchoscopy: International Modified Delphi Consensus

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Documentation in Pediatric Microlaryngoscopy/Bronchoscopy: International Modified Delphi Consensus via The Laryngoscope Pediatric microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy is a common procedure where adequate documentation is crucial for patient care and medicolegal purposes. There is significant variability in operative reports. We sought to develop an expert consensus of the key components for operative documentation, to improve patient care, communication and research. Background Complete and accurate documentation of surgical procedures is essential for optimizing patient care, yet significant variation in operative notes persists within and across institutions. We sought to reach consensus on the most important components of an operative note for pediatric microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy. Methods A modified Delphi consensus process was used. A checklist for operative documentation, created by fellowship-trained pediatric otolaryngologists-head and neck surgeons, was sent to surgeons identified as experts in pediatric laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy. In the first round, items were rated as "keep" or "remove". In the second round, each item was rated on a 7-point Likert scale for importance. The mean score of each item was calculated to determine if consensus was reached. Results Overall, 43/74 (58.1%) surgeons responded to our survey. After two rounds of editing, 28 components reached consensus, 24 were near consensus, and 26 did not reach consensus. Items that reached final consensus had mean (SD) ratings of 6.12 (0.94) (range, 5.31–6.72). Conclusion Pediatric otolaryngologists identified as bronchoscopy experts were able to create a checklist of essential components of an operative note for pediatric laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy using a Delphi method. Items reaching consensus included procedure name, description of breathing, grade of airway view, description of normal anatomic structures, grade of subglottic stenosis if present, presence and description of tracheobronchomalacia, presence of fistulae, cleft and rings, and several special cases including foreign body and tracheostomy management, as well as end of procedure disposition and complications. Level of Evidence 5 Laryngoscope, 2022 View on Web

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Osteocutaneous Radial Forearm Free Flap Fixed to a Prior Osteocutaneous Free Flap: Two Case Reports

alexandrossfakianakis shared this article with you from Inoreader Osteocutaneous Radial Forearm Free Flap Fixed to a Prior Osteocutaneous Free Flap: Two Case Reports via The Laryngoscope Reconstruction of mandibular defects is best accomplished by composite bony tissue. When the fibula is not available other sources must be used. Occasionaly tumor recurence will neccesitate a further resection and bony reconstruction. We report two cases in which osteocutaneous radial forearm free tissue transfer was used for secondary reconstructio after prior bony free flap reconstruction. Laryngoscope, 2022 View on Web

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