Detection of anti-HEV antibodies but no molecular positivity in dogs in the Campania region, southern Italy

Paslahepevirus balayani genotypes 3 and 4 (HEV-3 and 4) have zoonotic potential and can be transmitted to humans and animals through the consumption of contaminated raw or undercooked meat. Although it has been demonstrated that dogs are susceptible to the infection and produce specific antibodies, the epidemiological role of this species is not yet well defined. This study aimed to evaluate the circulation of HEV at the serological and molecular level in the dog population of the Campania region, southern Italy. A total of 231 dogs were sampled, divided according to several variables (sex, age, origin, lifestyle, location, size, and breed), and tested for the presence of HEV antibodies using a commercial multi-species ELISA. A total of 197 blood samples and 170 stool samples were tested with two specific PCRs in order to detect viral RNA. A total of 19 out samples of 231 were seropositive, obtaining an exposure (8.2%) similar to that observed in other European countries. The univariate and multivariate analysis revealed a wide exposure to stray dogs and animals from the province of Salerno. All samples tested with molecular methods were negative. Defining the role of domestic carnivores continues to be a "one health" challenge, although it appears that they do not eliminate the virus and therefore do not pose a danger to humans. In the absence of other evidence, it is advisable to continue to carry out surveillance also for domestic animals, which, due to ethological characteristics or their position in the food chain, could be predisposed to being exposed to HEV.

Dataset from RNAseq analysis of bud differentiation in Ficus carica

The presented data regards the transcriptome profiling and differential analysis with RNA-Seq approach with the following goals: de novo transcriptome assembly and genome annotation of Ficus carica and the differential expression analysis of parthenocarpic and non-partenocarpic varieties in order to identify candidate genes for the production of seedless fig. Two fig varieties Dottato and Petrelli and the caprifig were grown at the fig repository at the 'P. Martucci' experimental station in Valenzano (Bari) of University of Bari 'Aldo Moro'. The data included: RNA-seq data obtained from fruits of parthenocarpic and non-parthenocarpic varieties, gene expression in the different genetic materials; genes up and down regulated. The data in this article support information presented in the research article "I. Marcotuli, A. Mazzeo, P. Colasuonno, R. Terzano, D. Nigro, C. Porfido, A. Tarantino, R. Aiese Cigliano, W. Sanseverino, A. Gadaleta, G. Ferrara, Fruit Development in Ficus carica L.: Morphological and Genetic Approaches to Fig Buds for an Evolution From Monoecy Toward Dioecy. Front. Plant Sci.(2020) 11:1208. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2020.01208.

Datasets for genetic diversity assessment in a collection of wild and cultivated pomegranates (Punica granatum L.) by microsatellite markers

Data described in this article refer to molecular characterization and assessment of genetic diversity within a wide collection of pomegranate genotypes including both selections and cultivars from different geographical origin/disseminations by using microsatellite (SSR, Simple Sequence Repeats) markers. Supplied datasets refer to a set of 63 genotypes including 55 accessions (landraces) from Italy, Turkmenistan, Japan, and USA and 8 cultivars from Israel, established at the pomegranate repository of the Fruit Tree Unit of the Department of Soil, Plant and Food Science at University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Italy. Pomegranate accessions differed for end-use purpose (edible, ornamental) and some morpho-pomological traits including juice taste, inner tegmen hardness, and skin/seed color. Molecular data were opportunely employed to build a similarity matrix to establish phylogenetic relationships (genetic similarity and distances) among pomegranate accessions and compare genetic clustering to morpho-pomological classification. The present data article provides detailed information and methodological protocols on SSR markers, PCR amplification and banding profiling aimed to molecular characterization of pomegranate collection. This latter was conducted by amplifying a set of informative polymorphic SSR markers on the genomic DNA of each pomegranate accession, and then comparing the different molecular profiles by capillary electrophoresis. The banding patterns obtained from microsatellite markers were used to build a binary matrix containing the scores for each individual SSR fragment, which was transformed into a similarity matrix and finally used for cluster analysis and dendrogram building based on the UPGMA algorithm. This paper supplies data potentially useful for the identification of polymorphic markers suitable for varietal identification and traceability, or discrimination between tightly related pomegranate accessions with very high morphological similarity and/or geographical identity. Data described in this paper support the published original research article titled "Exploiting DNA-based molecular tools to assess genetic diversity in pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) selections and cultivars" [1].

Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Evaluation of Treated Glioblastoma: A Pictorial Essay

MRI plays a key role in the evaluation of post-treatment changes, both in the immediate post-operative period and during follow-up. There are many different treatment's lines and many different neuroradiological findings according to the treatment chosen and the clinical timepoint at which MRI is performed. Structural MRI is often insufficient to correctly interpret and define treatment-related changes. For that, advanced MRI modalities, including perfusion and permeability imaging, diffusion tensor imaging, and magnetic resonance spectroscopy, are increasingly utilized in clinical practice to characterize treatment effects more comprehensively. This article aims to provide an overview of the role of advanced MRI modalities in the evaluation of treated glioblastomas. For a didactic purpose, we choose to divide the treatment history in three main timepoints: post-surgery, during Stupp (first-line treatment) and at recurrence (second-line treatment). For each, a brief introduction, a temporal subdivision (when useful) or a specific drug-related paragraph were provided. Finally, the current trends and application of radiomics and artificial intelligence (AI) in the evaluation of treated GB have been outlined.

Role of aspirin, beta-blocker, statins, and heparin therapy in septic patients under mechanical ventilation: a narrative review

Sepsis is the main cause of death among patients admitted to intensive care units. Management of sepsis includes fluid resuscitation, vasopressors, intravenous antimicrobials, source control, mechanical ventilation, and others. New insights into the potential benefits of non-antimicrobial drugs in sepsis have evolved based on the pathophysiology of the disease and the mechanism of action of some drugs, but the findings are still controversial. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of beta-blockers, aspirin, statins, and heparin as adjunctive treatments in septic patients under mechanical ventilation with non-cardiovascular diseases and their effect on mortality. We searched PubMed with relevant keywords (beta-blockers, aspirin, statins, or heparin, and critically ill or sepsis) for the last 10 years and some personal collection of relevant articles, and then we assessed studies according to prespecified inclusion and exclusion criteria. Our results show that beta-blockers, aspirin, and heparin may have promising feedback on reducing mortality. However, new well-controlled, randomized, multicenter studies are needed to confirm that, and multiple issues regarding their usage need to be addressed. On the other hand, the feedback regarding the effectiveness of statins was not as strong as that of the other drugs studied, and we suggest that further research is needed to confirm these results.

Modifications of lung microbiota structure in traumatic brain injury ventilated patients according to time and enteral feeding formulas: a prospective randomized study

BACKGROUND

Specialized diets enriched with immune nutrients could be an important supplement in patients (pts) with acute traumatic brain injury (TBI). Omega-3 and arginine may interact with immune response and microbiota. No data are available about the role of the specialized diets in modulating the lung microbiota, and little is known about the influence of lung microbiota structure in development of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in TBI pts. The aims of this study are to evaluate the impact of specific nutrients on the lung microbiota and the variation of lung microbiota in TBI pts developing VAP.

METHODS

A cohort of 31 TBI pts requiring mechanical ventilation in ICU was randomized for treatment with specialized (16pts) or standard nutrition (15pts). Alpha and beta diversity of lung microbiota were analyzed from bronco Alveolar Lavage (BAL) samples collected at admission and 7 days post-ICU admission in both groups. A further analysis was carried out on the same samples retrospectively grouped in VAP or no VAP pts.

RESULTS

None developed VAP in the first week. Thereafter, ten out of thirty-one pts developed VAP. The BAL microbiota on VAP group showed significant differences in beta diversity and Staphylococcus and Acinetobacter Genera were high. The specialized nutrition had influence on beta diversity that reached statistical significance only in Bray-Curtis distance.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that TBI patients who developed VAP during ICU stay have different structures of BAL microbiota either at admission and at 7 days post-ICU admission, while no correlation has been observed between different enteral formulas and microbiota composition in terms of richness and evenness. These findings suggest that targeting the lung microbiota may be a promising approach for preventing infections in critically ill patients.

Metabolomics and genetics of reproductive bud development in Ficus carica var. sativa (edible fig) and in Ficus carica var. caprificus (caprifig): similarities and differences

In figs, reproductive biology comprises cultivars requiring or not pollination, with female trees (edible fig) and male trees (caprifig) bearing different types of fruits. Metabolomic and genetic studies may clarify bud differentiation mechanisms behind the different fruits. We used a targeted metabolomic analysis and genetic investigation through RNA sequence and candidate gene investigation to perform a deep analysis of buds of two fig cultivars, 'Petrelli' (San Pedro type) and 'Dottato' (Common type), and one caprifig. In this work, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR-based metabolomics) has been used to analyze and compare buds of the caprifig and the two fig cultivars collected at different times of the season. Metabolomic data of buds collected on the caprifig, 'Petrelli', and 'Dottato' were treated individually, building three separate orthogonal partial least squared (OPLS) models, using the "y" variable as the sampling time to allow the identification of the correlations among metabolomic profiles of buds. The sampling times revealed different patterns between caprifig and the two edible fig cultivars. A significant amount of glucose and fructose was found in 'Petrelli', differently from 'Dottato', in the buds in June, suggesting that these sugars not only are used by the ripening brebas of 'Petrelli' but also are directed toward the developing buds on the current year shoot for either a main crop (fruit in the current season) or a breba (fruit in the successive season). Genetic characterization through the RNA-seq of buds and comparison with the literature allowed the identification of 473 downregulated genes, with 22 only in profichi, and 391 upregulated genes, with 21 only in mammoni.

A systematic review of the costs of diagnosis for multidrug-resistant/extensively drug-resistant TB in different settings

BACKGROUND: We performed an analysis of the cost and relative merits of different strategies for the diagnosis of multidrug-resistant/extensively drug-resistant TB (MDR/XDR-TB) in different settings.METHODS: We systematically reviewed the published evidence on cost/cost-effectiveness of rapid MDR/pre-XDR-TB and other methods for XDR-TB testing up to September 2022. PRISMA guidelines were followed. Collected data were analysed using Stata v17 software. Cost data were reported in USD ($) and summarised by mean, standard deviation, and range. Country income level was defined according to the World Bank country classification. Three simplified scenarios were also used to explore testing implications, based on low, intermediate and high TB incidence.RESULTS: Of 157 records, 25 studies were included with 24 reporting the cost of Xpert/RIF and two that evaluated the implementation of the MTBDRplus test. The total rapid test cost ranged from $12.41-$218, including $1.13-$74.60 for reagents/consumables and $0.40-$14.34 for equipment.CONCLUSION: The cost of MDR/XDR-TB diagnostics is lower in low resource settings. However, the cost-effective implementation of MDR/XDR-TB diagnostic algorithms requires careful consideration of local resources to avoid missed identification and the use of inappropriate regimen.

New Materials and Technologies for Durability and Conservation of Building Heritage

The increase in concrete structures' durability is a milestone to improve the sustainability of buildings and infrastructures. In order to ensure a prolonged service life, it is necessary to detect the deterioration of materials by means of monitoring systems aimed at evaluating not only the penetration of aggressive substances into concrete but also the corrosion of carbon-steel reinforcement. Therefore, proper data collection makes it possible to plan suitable restoration works which can be carried out with traditional or innovative techniques and materials. This work focuses on building heritage and it highlights the most recent findings for the conservation and restoration of reinforced concrete structures and masonry buildings.

Experimental Characterisation of Lime-Based Textile-Reinforced Mortar Systems Made of Either Jute or Flax Fabrics

Existing buildings are often in need of strengthening interventions, and several technical solutions have been recently developed for this purpose. Among them, the use of textile-reinforced mortar (TRM) composites has gained consensus as a technically viable and economically convenient option. Moreover, TRM has the potential to be employed as a reversible and sustainable strengthening technique for masonry buildings. In this context, the present paper aims to investigate the mechanical properties of TRM systems consisting of sustainable phases, such as lime-based matrices and natural fabrics produced by waiving fibers obtained from plants, such as Jute or Flax. This class composite system can be referred to as natural TRM and is denoted by the acronym NTRM. The present study moves from the geometric and mechanical characterisation of fibres and fabrics and, after having also investigated the properties of the mortar, it reports the results of tensile tests carried out on specimens of the NTRM systems under consideration, with the main aim of providing the empirical bases of the relationships between the geometric and physical properties of the constituents and the resulting mechanical response of the composite system. The obtained results show that the considered Flax-TRM system has an apparent composite behavior, as its response to tension is clearly characterised by the well-known three stages corresponding to the elastic response, the formation of cracks, and the reinforcement response up to rupture. Conversely, the Jute-TRM system needs to be further improved in terms of balance between the properties of the matrix and the internal reinforcement. Further studies will be devoted to this specific aspect and, more generally, to investigating the relationships between constituents' properties and the NTRM behavior.

Mechanical Characterisation of GFRP Frame and Beam-to-Column Joints Including Steel Plate Fastened Connections

The study is part of the MOOVABAT project aiming at defining innovative technological buildings with low environmental impact and characterised by the capacity to constantly adapt to the changing of their users' needs. In this context, the mechanical performance of a fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) frame, chosen as a structural solution for the building assembly, was investigated. Specifically, the research study aims to experimentally define the moment-rotation behaviour of screw-connected joints by using steel plates. For this purpose, two different configurations, a beam-to-column joint and a whole portal frame, were tested to evaluate the strength and the stiffness of the connection. In addition, the beam-to-column element was also subjected to cyclic loads to assess the joint energy dissipation capacity. The experimental results show that the strength of the connection is higher than that required to satisfy both serviceability limit state (SLS) and ultimate limit state (ULS) loading conditions. Moreover, it also provided an accurate characterisation of the semi-rigid connection useful for designing purposes and raising the possibility of considering an optimisation of the system. All in all, with respect to mechanical aspects, the study confirms the suitability of pultrude FRP element assemblies for modular building applications and paves the way for further analysis aimed at enhancing their efficiency.

Immunological effects of glutamine supplementation in polytrauma patients in intensive care unit

Background

In polytrauma intensive care unit (ICU) patients, glutamine (GLN) becomes a “conditionally essential” amino acid; its role has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials but their results are inconclusive.

We evaluated the IgA-mediated humoral immunity after GLN supplementation in polytrauma ICU patients.

Methods

All consecutive patients with polytrauma who required mechanical ventilation and enteral nutrition (EN) provided within 24 h since the admission in ICU at the University Hospital of Foggia from September 2016 to February 2017 were included.

Thereafter, two groups were identified: patients treated by conventional EN (25 kcal/kg/die) and patients who have received conventional EN enriched with 50 mg/kg/ideal body weight of alanyl-GLN 20% intravenously.

We analysed the plasmatic concentration of IgA, CD3+/CD4+ T helper lymphocytes, CD3+/CD8+ T suppressor lymphocytes, CD3+/CD19+ B lymphocytes, IL-4 and IL-2 at admission and at 4 and 8 days.

Results

We identified 30 patients, with 15 subjects per group. IgA levels increased significantly in GLN vs the control group at T0, T4 and T8. CD3+/CD4+ T helper lymphocyte and CD3+/CD8+ T suppressor lymphocyte levels significantly increased in GLN vs the control group at T4 and T8. CD3+/CD19+ B lymphocyte levels increased significantly in GLN vs the control group only at T8. IL-2 and IL-4 levels showed no significant differences when comparing GLN with the control group.

Conclusions

Our study showed that there was an improvement in humoral and cell-mediated immunity with GLN supplementation in polytrauma ICU patients using recommended doses.

P-356 Clinical implications of first-trimester ultrasound dating in singleton pregnancies obtained through in vitro fertilization

Study question

Is there a correspondence between ultrasound estimation of gestational age (GAUS) and its calculation based on embryo transfer date (GAIVF), in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancies?

Summary answer

GAUS and GAIVF are not overlapping, being the first mildly greater than the latter, maybe due to anticipated ovulation and fertilization or accelerated embryo development.

What is known already

In IVF pregnancies the precise date of conception is known. However, it is possible that some factors (such as a time delay between conception and implantation, an early in-vitro embryo development, and the maternal environment itself with its altered hormonal milieu) may influence the early stages of embryonic development. Data regarding first-trimester fetal development in IVF pregnancies are in fact conflicting and both underestimation and overestimation of the true GA were reported when traditional charts were used for ultrasound pregnancy dating.

Study design, size, duration

A retrospective study was performed, including all singleton IVF pregnancies who underwent the first-trimester ultrasound scan for the screening of aneuploidies between January 2014 and June 2019. For each pregnancy GA was determined using two alternative methods: one based on the date of embryo transfer (GAIVF), and one based on ultrasound measurement of crown-rump length (CRL) (GAUS). GA were compared to search for any discrepancy. The impact of pregnancy dating on obstetric outcome was evaluated.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

All women with singleton pregnancies conceived by conventional IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), who performed first-trimester ultrasound scan for the screening of aneuploidies at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology ‘L. Mangiagalli', Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, were included. Exclusion criteria were as follows: multiple pregnancy (i.e., the evidence of more than one gestational sac at the first ultrasound scan), abnormal karyotype and/or congenital malformations detected either in pre- or postnatal period.

Main results and the role of chance

Overall, 249 women were selected: 111 pregnancies (45%) by conventional IVF, and 138 (55%) by ICSI. Among the included women, 127 (51%) pregnancies resulted from frozen-thawed embryo transfer. At first trimester ultrasound scan, the discrepancy in days between GAUS and GAIVF was ≥ 4 days in 32 cases (13%, 95%CI: 9-18%). It ranged within 2 and 3 days in 100 cases (40%, 95%CI: 34-47%). In 117 cases (47%, 95%CI: 41-53%) GAUS and GAIVF overlapped or showed a discrepancy of ± 1 day. Comparing GAUS and GAIVF at first trimester ultrasound scan, the median values of GA were 88 [86 - 91] days and 87 [85 - 90] days, respectively (p < 0.001). The median difference was 1 [0 - 2] days, with GAUS systematically higher than GAIVF. This discrepancy persisted when subgroups were analyzed comparing different IVF procedures (conventional IVF versus ICSI, cleavage versus blastocyst transfer, frozen versus fresh transfer). The overall duration of pregnancy differed, with median values of 274 [269 - 281] days in GAUS group and 273 [268 - 280] days in GAIVF group, (p > 0.001). No impact of the dating method on obstetric outcomes was observed, being no differences in the rate of preterm birth or abnormal fetal growth.

Limitations, reasons for caution

This is a retrospective study and thus exposed to the inaccuracies of this study design. Moreover, being a single-centre study, the sample size is relatively small. Finally, ultrasound evaluations were performed by multiple operators: although they are all certified, there is some inter-individual variability that may impact on the results.

Wider implications of the findings

Despite a known date of conception, it is difficult to assume that the oocyte retrieval date precisely resembles the date of natural ovulation and conception. IVF seems to anticipate fertilization. On these bases, it would be advisable to date IVF pregnancies using GAUS to realign them to natural pregnancies.

Trial registration number

Not Applicable

Machine learning and predictive models: 2 years of Sars-CoV-2 pandemic in a single-center retrospective analysis

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Cover cropped and tilled table grape vineyard: Data on leaves and stems

Data presented are on mass, length, SPAD and some physiological parameters of leaves and stems in a table grape vineyard of Italia variety grafted onto 1103 Paulsen, covered with a plastic sheet to advance ripening and managed with two soil systems in the Puglia region, South-eastern Italy in 2015 and 2016. The two systems differed for the soil management since in one area of the vineyard a cover crop was used (Trifolium repens L.), whereas in the other area only soil tillage was adopted. The data of the two seasons include: (a) mass of leaves of primary shoot, secondary shoot and opposite the cluster; (b) length of secondary shoots; (c) number of both secondary shoots and leaves of secondary shoots; (d) SPAD values and area of leaves opposite both first and second cluster on the primary shoot; (e) mass of stems of both primary and secondary shoots; and (f) some physiological parameters (Ψ_stem, temperature, Fv/Fm). The data in this article support and augment information presented in the research article ‘Cover crops in the inter-row of a table grape vineyard managed with irrigation sensors: effects on yield, quality and glutamine synthetase activity in leaves’ (Sci. Hortic. 281, 2021 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2021.109963).

Cover cropped and tilled table grape vineyard: Data on leaves and stems

Data presented are on mass, length, SPAD and some physiological parameters of leaves and stems in a table grape vineyard of Italia variety grafted onto 1103 Paulsen, covered with a plastic sheet to advance ripening and managed with two soil systems in the Puglia region, South-eastern Italy in 2015 and 2016. The two systems differed for the soil management since in one area of the vineyard a cover crop was used (Trifolium repens L.), whereas in the other area only soil tillage was adopted. The data of the two seasons include: (a) mass of leaves of primary shoot, secondary shoot and opposite the cluster; (b) length of secondary shoots; (c) number of both secondary shoots and leaves of secondary shoots; (d) SPAD values and area of leaves opposite both first and second cluster on the primary shoot; (e) mass of stems of both primary and secondary shoots; and (f) some physiological parameters (Ψ_stem, temperature, Fv/Fm). The data in this article support and augment information presented in the research article 'Cover crops in the inter-row of a table grape vineyard managed with irrigation sensors: effects on yield, quality and glutamine synthetase activity in leaves' (Sci. Hortic. 281, 2021 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scienta.2021.109963).

Fruit Development in Ficus carica L.: Morphological and Genetic Approaches to Fig Buds for an Evolution From Monoecy Toward Dioecy

The mechanism behind the bud evolution towards breba or main crop in Ficus carica L. is uncertain. Anatomical and genetic studies may put a light on the possible similarities/differences between the two types of fruits. For this reason, we collected complimentary data from anatomical, X-ray imaging, and genetic techniques. The RNA seq together with structural genome annotation allowed the prediction of 34,629 known genes and 938 novel protein-coding genes. Transcriptome analysis of genes during bud differentiation revealed differentially expressed genes in two fig varieties (Dottato and Petrelli) and in breba and main crop. We chose Dottato and Petrelli because the first variety does not require pollination to set main crop and the latter does; moreover, Petrelli yields many brebas whereas Dottato few. Of the 1,615 and 1,904 loci expressed in Dottato and Petrelli, specifically in breba or main crop, respectively, only 256 genes appeared to be transcripts in both varieties. The buds of the two fig varieties were observed under optical microscope and using 3D X-ray tomography, highlighting differences mainly related to the stage of development. The X-ray images of buds showed a great structural similarity between breba and main crop during the initial stages of development. Analysis at the microscope indicated that inflorescence differentiation of breba was split in two seasons whereas that of main crop started at the end of winter of season 2 and was completed within 2 to 3 months. The higher expression of floral homeotic protein AGAMOUS in breba with respect to main crop, since this protein is required for normal development of stamens and carpels in the flower, may indicate an original role of these fruits for staminate flowers production for pollination of the main crop, as profichi in the caprifig. Several genes related to auxin (auxin efflux carrier, auxin response factor, auxin binding protein, auxin responsive protein) and to GA synthesis (GA20ox) were highly expressed in brebas with respect to main crop for the development of this parthenocarpic fruit.

Bounds on Lorentz Invariance Violation from MAGIC Observation of GRB 190114C

On January 14, 2019, the Major Atmospheric Gamma Imaging Cherenkov telescopes detected GRB 190114C above 0.2 TeV, recording the most energetic photons ever observed from a gamma-ray burst. We use this unique observation to probe an energy dependence of the speed of light in vacuo for photons as predicted by several quantum gravity models. Based on a set of assumptions on the possible intrinsic spectral and temporal evolution, we obtain competitive lower limits on the quadratic leading order of speed of light modification.

Latent tuberculous infection among foreign-born individuals applying to shelters in the metropolitan area of Milan

SETTING

Screening for latent tuberculous infection (LTBI) of groups at high risk of active tuberculosis (TB) is a key component of the End TB Strategy.

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a retrospective descriptive analysis of LTBI rates among foreign-born individuals applying to shelters in the metropolitan area of Milan, Italy.

DESIGN

All foreign-born individuals registering for accommodation centres in the city of Milan from November 2009 to April 2017 were screened for active TB and LTBI. Individuals aged <36 years with a tuberculin skin test (TST) induration of >10 mm were offered confirmatory testing with QuantiFERON®-TB Gold In-Tube (QFT-GIT).

RESULTS

Of the 2666 TST-positive migrants aged <36 years who underwent LTBI confirmation testing, 1322 (49.6%) tested negative, 1339 (50.2%) were positive and five (0.2%) had indeterminate results. In the multivariate analysis, TB incidence in the country of origin and age were significantly associated with QFT-GIT positivity. Although estimated TB incidence in Eritrea, Morocco and Romania was 100/100 000 person-years (py), the probability of being QFT-GIT-positive in individuals from these countries were not statistically significantly different from individuals from countries with TB incidence > 250/100 000 person-years.

CONCLUSION

Our data showed a high proportion of LTBI among individuals coming from intermediate TB burden countries.

Lactic Acid Fermentation of Pomegranate Juice as a Tool to Improve Antioxidant Activity

An increasing consumer demand for pomegranate has been globally observed, mainly thanks to the scientific evidence related to its functional and health-promoting features. Pomegranate fruits from twenty accessions identified in Southeastern Italy were characterized according to morphological and chemical features. Juices extracted from pomegranate fruits were fermented with selected Lactobacillus plantarum PU1 and the antioxidant activity investigated. Whey was added to juices to promote the microbial growth. Fermentation led to the increase of the radical scavenging activity (up to 40%) and significant inhibition of the linoleic acid peroxidation. The three fermented juices showing the highest antioxidant activity, and the corresponding unfermented controls, were further characterized. In detail, the cytotoxicity and the protective role toward artificially induced oxidative stress were determined on murine fibroblasts Balb 3T3 through the determination of the viability and the intracellular ROS (reactive oxygen species) scavenging activity (RSA). RSA reached values of ca. 70% in fermented juices, being ca. 40% higher than the unfermented and control samples. Phenols compounds of the pomegranate juices obtained from accessions "Bitonto Piscina," "Sanrà nero," and "Wonderful (reference cultivar) were analyzed through ultrahigh pressure liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, showing that a marked increase (up to 60%) of the ellagitannins derivatives occurred during fermentation. Sensory analysis showed suitability of the fermented juices to be used as beverage and food ingredient.

The cosmic ray shadow of the Moon observed with the ANTARES neutrino telescope

One of the main objectives of the ANTARES telescope is the search for point-like neutrino sources. Both the pointing accuracy and the angular resolution of the detector are important in this context and a reliable way to evaluate this performance is needed. In order to measure the pointing accuracy of the detector, one possibility is to study the shadow of the Moon, i.e. the deficit of the atmospheric muon flux from the direction of the Moon induced by the absorption of cosmic rays. Analysing the data taken between 2007 and 2016, the Moon shadow is observed with 3.5 σ statistical significance. The detector angular resolution for downward-going muons is 0 . 73 ∘ ± 0 . 14 ∘ . The resulting pointing performance is consistent with the expectations. An independent check of the telescope pointing accuracy is realised with the data collected by a shower array detector onboard of a ship temporarily moving around the ANTARES location.

Nitrogen Distribution in Annual Growth of 'Italia' Table Grape Vines

Little information is available about nitrogen (N) content and its concentration in table grape vines. Knowledge of the quantity of N accumulated by the vine organs during the season could support sustainable fertilization programs for table grape vineyards. The aim of the present study was to determine the N content and its concentration in different annual organs, including summer and winter pruning materials, clusters at harvest, and fallen leaves at post-harvest. Specifically, biomass and N were analyzed at six phenological growth stages (flowering, berry-set, berry growth, veraison, ripening, and harvest) from 2012 to 2015. Nitrogen concentration was highest (>40 g/kg d.w.) in the leaves of the secondary shoots at flowering, whereas values >30 g/kg were measured in the leaves of the primary shoots. Nitrogen concentration in the clusters at harvest was 5.3-7.6 g/kg with an accumulation of 18.6-25.4 g/vine in the seasons. The decrease of N content in the primary leaves after flowering indicated a remobilization toward the clusters, which acted as a stronger sink. Later in the season (veraison-ripening), leaves translocated N to permanent organs and primary stems. Pruned wood and fallen leaves accounted for the largest N removal from the vine after clusters, 6.0-7.9 and 9.2-10.2 g/vine, respectively. With regard of the vine annual biomass, the growth followed a sigmoidal model reaching 7300-7500 g of d.w./vine at harvest. Vine leaf area, including both primary and secondary leaves, peaked at veraison (17-21 m²). Vines accumulated ≅35 g/vine of N at harvest, not considering the N removed with the intense summer pruning practices (≅7 g/vine) and the fraction mobilized toward the storage organs (10-15 g/vine). The overall N required by the vine was around 50-55 g/vine, which corresponded to ≅80 kg of N/ha in a vineyard with 1500 vines and a yield of 40 t/ha. Summer and winter pruning practices removed 29-31 g/vine of N which will be partly available (to be considered in the fertilization schedule) for the vine in the successive years if pruned residues were incorporated and mineralized in the soil.

Lymphoepithelioma-Like Carcinoma of the Lung. Two Cases Diagnosed in Caucasian Patients

Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma is a non-nasopharyngeal undifferentiated carcinoma with prominent lymphoid infiltration. Ten cases arising in the lung have been reported so far; seven cases were diagnosed in Orientals, with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) genome demonstrated in neoplastic cells by in situ hybridization; the remaining three cases affected Caucasian patients and showed no evidence of hybridized viral genome. The present study describes two additional cases of lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma of the lung in Caucasians, with reference to the differential diagnosis versus other thoracomediastinal malignancies. The neoplastic nuclei, blastlike in appearance, together with the immunohistochemical profile of the neoplastic cells (positivity for cytokeratins, and negativity for CD antigens, S100 protein, placental alkaline phosphatase, and neuroendocrine markers) represent the basic pathologic features of a lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma and allow its recognition even on small bioptic fragments, in which the typical biphasic, Regaud-like morphology might be inapparent. In accordance with the previously reported cases of pulmunary lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma in Caucasian patients, the present study found no evidence of the Epstein-Barr virus genome in neoplastic cells with in situ hybridization.

Smooth Muscle Tumors of the Breast: Clinicopathologic Features of Two Cases

Two cases of smooth muscle tumor of the breast with high tendency to local relapses are reported. The common cytohistologic feature of these infrequent neoplasms is interfacing bundles with spindle-shaped cells showing eosinophilic cytoplasm and blunt-ended nuclei. In estimating the prognosis of these lesions, the mitotic index must be evaluated together with evidence of necrosis and hypercellularity. The present cases suggest that, in the absence of the ancillary features, a mitotic rate of 1-3 × 10 HPF might define a “grey zone” in the spectrum of lesions between leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas: the smooth muscle tumors of indeterminate prognosis (low risk lesions).

In Situ and Microinvasive Carcinoma with Squamoid Differentiation Arising in a Phyllodes Tumor: Report of a Case

A case of in situ and invasive ductal carcinoma with areas of squamoid differentiation arising in a phyllodes tumor is reported. This last aspect has never been described before and is discussed reviewing the previously reported cases in the literature.

Histopathologic Interobserver Agreement on the Diagnosis of Melanocytic Skin Lesions with Equivocal Dermoscopic Features: A Pilot Study

Aims and background

Dermoscopy (dermatoscopy, skin surface microscopy, epiluminescence microscopy) has been increasingly employed in recent years for the preoperative detection of cutaneous melanoma, and dermatoscopic features of pigmented skin lesions have been previously defined using histopathology (HP) as the “key to the code”. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the interobserver agreement on the HP diagnosis in a series of epiluminescence microscopy equivocal melanocytic skin lesions.

Study design

Ten melanocytic skin lesions were selected on the basis of diagnostic disagreement of at least 2 out of 9 epiluminescence microscopy observers. The histologic specimens from the 10 lesions were examined by 9 HP observers. The agreement of the HP diagnoses was calculated by means of Fleiss' k statistics.

Results

The overall HP agreement was less than excellent (k = 0.5). When considering the prevailing epiluminescence microscopic and HP diagnoses, 2 cases were shown to be epiluminescence microscopy false-negative melanomas. Virtually no agreement was found among epiluminescence microscopy observers in 4 cases (40%) or among HP observers in 3 cases (30%). However, only one pigmented skin lesion remained un-classifiable on epiluminescence microscopy as well as HP.

Conclusions

When at least 2 epiluminescence microscopy experts disagree in the evaluation of a given melanocytic skin lesion, even HP consultations may give equivocal results. The need to establish more reliable epiluminescence microscopic and HP criteria by performing an improved and meticulous clinicopathologic correlation, e.g. by using telecommunication via Internet, is emphasized.

Lymph Node Merkel Cell Carcinoma with No Evidence of Cutaneous Tumor - Report of Two Cases

We report two cases of Merkel cell carcinoma within inguinal and axillary lymph nodes, respectively, showing no clinicopathologic evidence of a primary (extranodal) tumor; one of our patients was alive with no evidence of disease five years and ten months after the surgical excision of the neoplasm with no postoperative chemotherapy.

The diagnosis of nodal Merkel cell carcinoma needs to be supported by a careful immunohistochemical study: in fact, cytokeratin- and neurofilament-positive paranuclear “dots”, as well as epithelial antigens and neuroendocrine markers may be variably expressed in tumor cells, thus requiring the application of a complete antibody panel.

In the presence of a nodal Merkel cell tumor, an exhaustive clinico-radiologic search for a primary tumor must be carried out. After the exclusion of any reasonable starting point of the neoplasm, a provisional diagnosis of “primary” nodal Merkel cell carcinoma may be acceptable; since a primary extracutaneous tumor is expected to follow a less aggressive course than a metastatic one, follow-up data may provide indications as to the truly extracutaneous origin of Merkel cell carcinoma.

Sarcomatoid Carcinoma of the Colon: A Case Report with Literature Review

Sarcomatoid carcinoma (SC) is a well defined tumor type that may occur in all organs and anatomic sites but most commonly in the head1, neck1, respiratory tract2-4, breast5, and genitourinary tract6-11. It is a biphasic tumor showing both epithelial- and mesenchymal-like differentiation; however, its carcinomatous nature is widely recognized12. SC is rare in the gastrointestinal tract. In the esophagus it accounts for less than 5% of all malignancies12-16 and approximately only 35 cases have been described in the stomach12,17-18. Very few cases have been observed in the small intestine19-20, anorectal junction21, liver22, and pancreas23-24. To our knowledge only eight cases of SC have been reported in the colon25-32. We report a case of primary colonic SC. Both morphological and immunohistochemical analyses are provided along with an evaluation of the unusual clinical history, therapeutic implications, and controversial differential diagnosis.

Thyroid Metastases from a Ductal Carcinoma of the Breast. A Case Report

A case of bilateral thyroid metastases from ductal carcinoma of the breast is presented with emphasis on some unusual clinical findings: presentation after a long disease-free interval; clinical signs mimicking an acute thyroiditis; cystic structure of the left-sided metastatic nodule. Fine needle aspiration cytology from both nodules showed highly atypical tumor cells, such as to warrant a differential diagnosis between metastatic breast cancer on the one hand and anaplastic and medullary carcinoma of the thyroid on the other. Immunophenotypic study of the neoplasm on a cell block preparation of the aspirated material showed negativity for both thyroglobulin and calcitonin; instead, the tumor cells were strongly stained with antibodies against the “breast-related” markers alpha-lactalbumin and gross cystic disease fluid protein-15. Therefore, immunochemistry allowed us to establish a definite diagnosis of metastatic breast disease of the thyroid, thereby avoiding surgical procedures.

Circulating stem cells, HIF-1, and SDF-1 in septic abdominal surgical patients: randomized controlled study protocol

Background

Sepsis caused by complicated intra-abdominal infection is associated with high mortality. Loss of endothelial barrier integrity, inflammation, and impaired cellular oxygen have been shown to be primary contributors to sepsis. To date, little is known regarding the pathway for the mobilization of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) from the bone marrow in sepsis whereas stromal-cell-derived factor 1a (SDF-1a) and hypoxia inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) seem to have a role in the EPC response to hypoxic microenvironments.

The aims of the study are: (a) to determine the time course of the levels of circulating EPCs (CD133/CD34), SDF-1a, and HIF-1 in septic patients undergoing major abdominal surgery (group S), (b) to investigate the relationship between CD133/CD34, HIF-1, and SDF-1a, and (c) to investigate the relationship of these factors with the outcome of group S patients treated with standard conventional therapy alone (CT) or with the addition of extracorporeal hemoperfusion therapy (HCT).

Methods/design

Patients undergoing major abdominal surgery will be allocated into groups: postoperative non-septic patients in an emergency surgical ward (group C) and postoperative septic patients in an intensive care unit (group S). The latter will be randomized to receive CT alone (S1) or with HCT (S2). Healthy volunteers (group H) will be recruited at University Hospital Foggia.

Peripheral blood (PB) samples will be collected preoperatively (T0), at 24 h (T1), 72 h (T2), 7 (T3), and 10 (T4) postoperative days in groups S and C, and at T0 in group H. The CD34/133 cells and HIF-1 counts will be determined by flow cytometer analysis. The concentration of SDF-1a in plasma will be calculated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analysis (ELISA).

Discussion

This prospective randomized clinical trial is designed to investigate circulating stem cells, levels of HIF-1 and SDF-1a, and their interrelationship in septic postoperative abdominal surgical patients treated with CT alone or with HCT. The rationale is that an integrated understanding of the role of hypoxia-related factors and EPCs in PB of septic patients could indicate which molecular processes need to be regulated to recover the innate immunity homeostasis. Understanding the function of EPCs in sepsis may provide innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to improve the prognosis of this syndrome.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02589535. Registered on 28 October 2015.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13063-018-2556-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The table grape 'Victoria' with a long shaped berry: a potential mutation with attractive characteristics for consumers

BACKGROUND

Puglia is the most important region in Italy for table grape production. Since consumers look for new products, the number of table grape varieties has greatly increased in recent years.

RESULTS

In a survey in the Puglia region, we identified several years ago a potential mutation of the cv. Victoria. We described this accession in comparison with the standard Victoria for some amphelographic traits. All the characteristics were very similar to the standard Victoria except for the berry shape, which was significantly more elongated. Moreover, the berry of the mutated Victoria showed higher firmness, lightness and chroma than the standard one, with a more intense yellow colour of the skin (appreciated by consumers). The molecular characterisation with 25 SSR markers showed that normal and mutant Victoria were genetically identical at all the analysed loci, thus suggesting that the two accessions could be considered as clones with the difference in berry shape probably due to a somatic mutation.

CONCLUSIONS

This mutation of the cv. Victoria may have interesting perspective for the market since consumers are always attracted by different shape and colour of the fruits (consumers buy with eyes). This accession can be an alternative clone of the already known standard Victoria. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.