High vaccination coverage and infection rate result in a robust SARS-CoV-2-specific immunity in the majority of liver cirrhosis and transplant patients: A single-center cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

In the third year of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, little is known about the vaccine- and infection-induced immune response in liver transplant recipients (LTR) and liver cirrhosis patients (LCP).

OBJECTIVE

This cross-sectional study assessed the vaccination coverage, infection rate, and the resulting humoral and cellular SARS-CoV-2-specific immune responses in a cohort of LTR and LCP at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany between March and May 2023.

METHODS

Clinical and laboratory data from 244 consecutive patients (160 LTR and 84 LCP) were collected via chart review and a patient survey. Immune responses were determined via standard spike(S)- and nucleocapsid-protein serology and a spike-specific Interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA).

RESULTS

On average, LTR and LCP were vaccinated 3.7 and 3.3 times, respectively and 59.4% of patients received ≥4 vaccinations. Altogether, 68.1% (109/160) of LTR and 70.2% (59/84) of LCP experienced a SARS-CoV-2 infection. Most infections occurred during the Omicron wave in 2022 after an average of 3.0 vaccinations. Overall, the hospitalization rate was low (<6%) in both groups. An average of 4.3 antigen contacts by vaccination and/or infection resulted in a seroconversion rate of 98.4%. However, 17.5% (28/160) of LTR and 8.3% (7/84) of LCP demonstrated only low anti-S titers (<1000 AU/ml), and 24.6% (16/65) of LTR and 20.4% (10/59) of LCP had negative or low IGRA responses. Patients with hybrid immunity (vaccination plus infection) elicited significantly higher anti-S titers compared with uninfected patients with the same number of spike antigen contacts. A total of 22.2% of patients refused additional booster vaccinations.

CONCLUSION

By spring 2023, high vaccination coverage and infection rate have resulted in a robust, mostly hybrid, humoral and cellular immune response in most LTR and LCP. However, booster vaccinations with vaccines covering new variants seem advisable, especially in patients with low immune responses and risk factors for severe disease.

Overexpression of VEGFα as a biomarker of endothelial dysfunction in aortic tissue of α-GAL-Tg/KO mice and its upregulation in the serum of patients with Fabry's disease

Introduction

Fabry's disease is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by reduced activity of α-galactosidase A (GAL), leading to premature death on account of renal, cardiac, and vascular organ failure. Accumulation of the GAL substrate globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) in endothelial and smooth muscle cells is associated with early vascular cell damage, suggesting endothelial dysfunction as a driver of cardiorenal organ failure. Here, we studied the vascular expression of the key angiogenic factors, VEGFα and its antagonist angiostatin, in Fabry α-GAL-Tg/KO mice and determined circulating VEGFα and angiostatin serum levels in patients with Fabry's disease and healthy controls.

Methods

Cryopreserved aortic vessels from six α-GAL-Tg/KO and six wild-type (WT) mice were obtained and VEGFα and angiostatin levels were determined by performing Western blot analysis. VEGFα expression was visualized by an immunohistochemical staining of paraffin aortic rings. In addition, VEGFα and angiostatin serum levels were measured by using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 48 patients with genetically verified Fabry's disease (50% male) and 22 healthy controls and correlated with disease severity markers such as lyso-Gb3, albuminuria, NTproBNP, high-sensitive troponin T (hsTNT), and myocardial wall thickness.

Results

It was found that there was a significant increase in VEGFα protein expression (1.66 ± 0.35 vs. 0.62 ± 0.16, p = 0.0009) and a decrease in angiostatin expression (0.024 ± 0.007 vs. 0.053 ± 0.02, p = 0.038) in aortic lysates from α-GAL-Tg/KO compared with that from WT mice. Immunohistochemical staining revealed an adventitial VEGFα signal in α-GAL-Tg/KO mice, whereas no VEGFα signal could be detected in WT mice aortas. No differences in aortic angiostatin expression between α-GAL-Tg/KO- and WT mice could be visualized. The serum levels of VEGFα were significantly upregulated in patients with Fabry's disease compared with that in healthy controls (708.5 ± 426.3 vs. 458.5 ± 181.5 pg/ml, p = 0.048) and positively associated with albuminuria (r = 0.82, p < 0.0001) and elevated NTproBNP (r = 0.87, p < 0.0001) and hsTNT values (r = 0.41, p = 0.048) in male patients with Fabry's disease. For angiostatin, no significant difference was found between patients with Fabry's disease and healthy controls (747.6 ± 390.3 vs. 858.8 ± 599.3 pg/ml).

Discussion

In conclusion, an overexpression of VEGFα and downregulation of its counter player angiostatin in aortic tissue of α-GAL-Tg/KO mice support the hypothesis of an underlying vasculopathy in Fabry's disease. Elevated VEGFα serum levels were also observed in patients with Fabry's disease and were positively associated with elevated markers of organ manifestation in males. These findings suggest that angiogenetic markers, such as VEGFα, may be potentially useful biomarkers for the detection of endothelial dysfunction in classical Fabry's disease.

Combined Biomarker System Predicts Prognosis in Patients with Metastatic Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Metastatic oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is associated with poor patient prognosis. Metastasis is a complex process involving various proteins, tumor cell alterations, including changes attributable to the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, and interactions with the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we investigate a combined protein marker system consisting of connexin 43 (Cx43), EMMPRIN (CD147), E-cadherin, and vimentin, with a focus on their roles in the invasive metastatic progression of OSCC and their potential utility in predicting prognosis.

METHODS

We conducted an immunohistochemical analysis to assess the protein expression profiles of Cx43, EMMPRIN, E-cadherin, and vimentin using tissue samples obtained from 24 OSCC patients. The metastatic process was mapped through different regions of interest (ROIs), including adjacent healthy oral mucosa (OM), center of primary OSCC, invasive front (IF), and local cervical lymph node metastases (LNM). The primary clinical endpoints were disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Substantial changes in the expression profiles of the different marker proteins were observed among the different ROIs, with all p-values < 0.05, signifying statistical significance. Multivariable Cox regression analysis results showed a significant effect of increased EMMPRIN expression toward the IF on DFS (p = 0.019) and OS (p = 0.023). Furthermore, the combined predictive analysis showed a significant predictive value of the marker system for DFS (p = 0.0017) and OS (p = 0.00044).

CONCLUSIONS

The combined marker system exhibited a significant ability to predict patient prognosis. An increase in EMMPRIN expression toward the IF showed the strongest effect and could be an interesting new antimetastatic therapy approach.

Observation of high-energy neutrinos from the Galactic plane

The origin of high-energy cosmic rays, atomic nuclei that continuously impact Earth's atmosphere, is unknown. Because of deflection by interstellar magnetic fields, cosmic rays produced within the Milky Way arrive at Earth from random directions. However, cosmic rays interact with matter near their sources and during propagation, which produces high-energy neutrinos. We searched for neutrino emission using machine learning techniques applied to 10 years of data from the IceCube Neutrino Observatory. By comparing diffuse emission models to a background-only hypothesis, we identified neutrino emission from the Galactic plane at the 4.5σ level of significance. The signal is consistent with diffuse emission of neutrinos from the Milky Way but could also arise from a population of unresolved point sources.

[The clinical importance of the critical view of safety in laparoscopic cholecystectomy]

BACKGROUND

Injury of the bile duct during cholecystectomy (CHE) is a severe complication. The critical view of safety (CVS) can help to reduce the frequency of this complication during laparoscopic CHE. So far, no scoring of CVS images with a grading system is available.

METHOD

The CVS images of 534 patients with laparoscopic CHE could be structurally analyzed and assessed with marks from 1 (very good) to 5 (insufficient). The CVS mark was correlated with the perioperative course. Additionally, the perioperative course of patients after laparoscopic CHE with and without a CVS image was investigated.

RESULTS

In 534 patients 1 or more CVS images could be analyzed. The average CVS mark was 1.9, whereby 280 patients (52.4%) had a 1, 126 patients (23.6%) a 2, 114 (21.3%) a 3 and 14 patients (2.6%) a 4 or 5. Younger patients with elective laparoscopic CHE had CVS images significantly more frequently (p ≤ 0.04). The statistical examination with Pearson's χ²-test and the F‑test (ANOVA) showed a significant correlation between improving CVS marks and reduction of surgery time (p < 0.01) and the hospitalization time (p < 0.01). For senior physicians the quota of CVS images ranged from 71% to 92% and the average marks from 1.5 to 2.2. The marks for the CVS images were significantly better for female than male patients (1.8 vs. 2.1, p < 0.01).

DISCUSSION

There was a relatively broad distribution of marks for CVS images. Injuries of the bile duct can be avoided with a high degree of certainty with marks 1‑2 for the CVS image. The CVS is not always adequately visualized in laparoscopic CHE.

[The COVID-19 pandemic had significant impact on duration of surgery and hospitalization time for patients after cholecystectomy]

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic made substantial changes in medical care necessary. The aims of this study were to find out what influence the pandemic had on the perioperative course in patients with cholecystectomy (CHE) and to highlight possible residual consequences.

METHOD

From 1 July 2018 to 31 December 2021 a total of 735 patients with CHE were analyzed. Up to 21 March 2020 patients were assigned to the regular patient group (Reg, n = 430), patients after this date (first lockdown 22 March 2020) to the Cov19 patient group (Cov19, n = 305) and the 2 groups were compared.

RESULTS

The average age of all patients was 59 years and 63% were women. The average length of hospitalization (KrVD, time period between surgery and discharge) was 4.4 days. The patient groups Reg and Cov19 did not differ with respect to age, gender or KrVD. The total number of CHEs carried out was reduced by 21.4% in the Cov19 group. This affected elective and emergency CHE to the same extent. The length of surgery significantly increased in the Cov19 group from 64 min (SD 34 min) to 71 min (SD 38 min). The number of short and long hospital stays (KrVD 2 or >4 days) significantly increased in the Cov19 group from 4 % to 20 % (short stay, p < 0.01) and from 23 % to 27 % (long stay, p < 0.01). This was particularly observed for patients >70 years old with an increase in long stays from 43 % to 56 % in the Cov19 group.

CONCLUSION

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a clear reduction in CHE both for elective and emergency interventions. Furthermore, a significant lengthening of the surgery and hospitalization times could be observed for older patients. The residual consequences of the pandemic could be shortened hospitalization times after uncomplicated CHE and more interventional treatment procedures in complex cases.

Evidence for neutrino emission from the nearby active galaxy NGC 1068

A supermassive black hole, obscured by cosmic dust, powers the nearby active galaxy NGC 1068. Neutrinos, which rarely interact with matter, could provide information on the galaxy’s active core. We searched for neutrino emission from astrophysical objects using data recorded with the IceCube neutrino detector between 2011 and 2020. The positions of 110 known gamma-ray sources were individually searched for neutrino detections above atmospheric and cosmic backgrounds. We found that NGC 1068 has an excess of 79 − 20 + 22 neutrinos at tera–electron volt energies, with a global significance of 4.2σ, which we interpret as associated with the active galaxy. The flux of high-energy neutrinos that we measured from NGC 1068 is more than an order of magnitude higher than the upper limit on emissions of tera–electron volt gamma rays from this source.

Search for Unstable Sterile Neutrinos with the IceCube Neutrino Observatory

We present a search for an unstable sterile neutrino by looking for a resonant signal in eight years of atmospheric ν_{μ} data collected from 2011 to 2019 at the IceCube Neutrino Observatory. Both the (stable) three-neutrino and the 3+1 sterile neutrino models are disfavored relative to the unstable sterile neutrino model, though with p values of 2.8% and 0.81%, respectively, we do not observe evidence for 3+1 neutrinos with neutrino decay. The best-fit parameters for the sterile neutrino with decay model from this study are Δm_{41}^{2}=6.7_{-2.5}^{+3.9}  eV^{2}, sin^{2}2θ_{24}=0.33_{-0.17}^{+0.20}, and g^{2}=2.5π±1.5π, where g is the decay-mediating coupling. The preferred regions of the 3+1+decay model from short-baseline oscillation searches are excluded at 90% C.L.

Patienten* nach unauffälliger elektiver laparoskopischer Cholezystektomie können ohne Laborwertkontrollen entlassen werden – Ergebnisse einer prospektiven Studie

Hintergrund

Die Bedeutung postoperativer Laborkontrollen nach elektiver laparoskopischer Cholezystektomie (lap. CHE) ist umstritten. Das Ziel dieser prospektiven Studie war es, herauszufinden, ob Patienten* bei unauffälligem perioperativem Verlauf nach lap. CHE ohne Laborwertkontrollen sicher entlassen werden können.

Methodik

Vom 09/20 bis 03/22 wurden alle Patienten* mit einer lap. CHE gescreent und nach Erhalt des Einverständnisses in die Studie eingeschlossen. Der Verlauf wurde mit einem Scoring- (Punktewert 3–15 Punkte) und Befragungsbogen strukturiert verfolgt. Ein Scoringwert von ≤ 9 Punkten beschrieb einen unauffälligen perioperativen Verlauf. Die Ethikkommission Heidelberg hat dieser Studie zugestimmt (S-026/2020).

Ergebnisse

Es wurden 275 Patienten* mit Gallenblasenoperation erfasst. Davon unterzogen sich 80 % einer elektiven lap. CHE. 56 Patienten* (25 %) wurden in die Studie eingeschlossen, 51 Patienten* wurden bei einem Scoringwert ≤ 9 Punkten ohne Blutentnahme entlassen. Das Durchschnittsalter der 51 Patienten* war 50,8 Jahre, der durchschnittliche Krankenhausaufenthalt betrug 2,6 Tage. 40 von 51 Patienten* (78,4 %) konnten postoperativ befragt werden. Bei keinem der Patienten* kam es nach Entlassung zu relevanten Komplikationen. 27 der 40 Patienten* (67,5 %) sind postoperativ noch einmal zum Hausarzt gegangen. Aufgrund anderer Operationen und einer endoskopischen Intervention sind 4 Patienten* erneut stationär behandelt worden. Alle Patienten* waren mit dem chirurgischen Verlauf zufrieden.

Diskussion

Patienten* mit unauffälligem perioperativem Verlauf nach elektiver lap. CHE (Scoringwert ≤ 9 Punkten) können ohne postoperative Laborwertkontrolle entlassen werden.

Strong Constraints on Neutrino Nonstandard Interactions from TeV-Scale ν_{μ} Disappearance at IceCube

We report a search for nonstandard neutrino interactions (NSI) using eight years of TeV-scale atmospheric muon neutrino data from the IceCube Neutrino Observatory. By reconstructing incident energies and zenith angles for atmospheric neutrino events, this analysis presents unified confidence intervals for the NSI parameter ε_{μτ}. The best-fit value is consistent with no NSI at a p value of 25.2%. With a 90% confidence interval of -0.0041≤ε_{μτ}≤0.0031 along the real axis and similar strength in the complex plane, this result is the strongest constraint on any NSI parameter from any oscillation channel to date.

Nasal polyp load determines the recovery of olfaction after surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis

BACKGROUND

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is typically accompanied by impairment of olfaction. Despite of this, until today the efficacy of endonasal sinus surgery (ESS) in terms of olfactory function is still unclear. So far it is known that patients with nasal polyps are most likely to experience post-operative recovery. Within the present study we investigated the sense of smell and other parameters of impairment in CRS before and after ESS in relation to the degree of nasal polyposis, determined with the nasal endoscopic Lildholdt-score.

METHODS

Patients with different degrees of severity of nasal polyposis were included. Olfactory function was assessed for odor thresholds [T], odor discrimination [D] and odor identification [I] and the changes of these parameters were investigated postoperatively.

RESULTS

For 72 patients baseline measures were available and in 47 patients, postoperative changes were described. There was a correlation between olfactory scores and nasal anatomy/polyposis scores (Lildholdt scores, Lund-Mackay CT score), rated nasal health, and nasal quality of life (sinonasal outcome test). Three months after surgery the average TDI-Score improved by 3.1 points with 30% of patients showing significant clinical improvement. Patients with severe polyposis (Lildholdt score of 5 or 6) benefited most in terms of olfaction. Other significant prognostic indicators of a postoperative increase of olfactory scores included younger age, low pre-operative TDI-scores and high CT-scores.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that not only the presence of polyps in CRS, but also the degree of nasal polyposis - measured by a grading system - predicts the results in olfactory test results. Additionally, the degree of recovery of olfaction after ESS seems to be most relevant in patients with high polyp scores.

Search for Relativistic Magnetic Monopoles with Eight Years of IceCube Data

We present an all-sky 90% confidence level upper limit on the cosmic flux of relativistic magnetic monopoles using 2886 days of IceCube data. The analysis was optimized for monopole speeds between 0.750c and 0.995c, without any explicit restriction on the monopole mass. We constrain the flux of relativistic cosmic magnetic monopoles to a level below 2.0×10^{-19}  cm^{-2} s^{-1} sr^{-1} over the majority of the targeted speed range. This result constitutes the most strict upper limit to date for magnetic monopoles with β≳0.8 and up to β∼0.995 and fills the gap between existing limits on the cosmic flux of nonrelativistic and ultrarelativistic magnetic monopoles.

TRANSMISSÃO FAMILIAR DE SARS-CoV-2: O CUIDADO DEVE CONTINUAR EM CASA

A doença COVID-19, causada pelo novo coronavírus SARS-CoV-2, iniciada na cidade de Wuhan, na China, alastrou-se rapidamente pelo mundo provocando muitos óbitos. Esse estudo buscou identificar a prevalência de transmissão familiar de SARS-CoV-2 no município de Santa Cruz do Sul (RS). Trata-se de um recorte de um estudo transversal de base populacional que mensurou a soroprevalência de SARS-CoV-2 na região central do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. O processo constitui-se de uma  amostragem sistemática dos setores censitários, seguido de sorteio aleatório simples dos domicílios em cada setor conforme tamanho de amostra estipulado. Em cada domicílio uma pessoa foi aleatoriamente sorteada e convidada a participar do estudo, realizando exame de teste de diagnóstico rápido para a detecção qualitativa de anticorpos IgG e IgM contra SARS-CoV-2. Havendo teste reator IgM, todos os moradores presentes no domicílio no momento da coleta foram testados. Um formulário on-line foi utilizado para a coleta de dados, com informações sobre características sociodemográficas e questões ligadas à saúde do entrevistado. Totalizou-se 1.158 pessoas entrevistadas, com média de idade de 49,5±19,0 anos, sendo 62,7% do sexo feminino e 80,4% residindo na zona urbana. Dentre os 33 casos identificados com testes rápidos reatores, 23 tinham familiares presentes no momento da coleta, totalizando 46 familiares testados. Os achados sugerem que a prevalência de transmissão familiar seja de 47,8%, demonstrando ser essencial conscientizar a população frente aos cuidados que devem ser tomados para evitar a transmissão do SARS-CoV-2, principalmente em meios compartilhados, como no ambiente familiar.

Children of problem gamblers: need for support, utilization of services and prevention policy

Background

Problem gambling is an emerging European public health concern. In Germany, 25 to 33% of the approximately 229,000 problem gamblers are also fathers or mothers of minor children. This suggests a high number of children exposed to parental gambling, who are a high-risk group for the development of addictive disorders and other psychological, somatic, and social problems. Unlike in children of parents with a substance-related addiction, the effects of parental problem gambling are under-researched and exposed children often remain underserved. In Germany, this study is the first of its kind to explore the service needs and use of services of the targeted group.

Methods

Survey research with an explorative mixed-methods design was conducted in a non-representative sample (n = 67) of adolescent and adult children of problem gamblers in Germany. Data on the need for support and use of services was assessed in structured interviews and analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis.

Results

Preliminary findings in the sample (n = 67, 56,7% male, mean age 28 years (SD = 6.966)) show a great need for support in many areas of life (e.g. family, substance use and gambling behaviour, mental health) and a low utilization of services. Exploring the need for support retrospectively, primarily (1) professional support, especially systemic / family-based support, (2) support and exchange via a trustee, (3) easily accessible services, (4) the desire for psychoeducation and transparency, (5) distancing from the gambling parent, and (6) parental willingness and ability to maintain abstinence, were considered helpful.

Conclusions

Children of problem gamblers show great need of support, but low utilization of services. Further research on the practical implementation of targeted, early, easily accessible, sustainable and transgenerational prevention is a necessary measure in the delivery of care to (children from) families affected by problem gambling.

Key messages

Retrospectively, children of problem gamblers express a high need of easily accessible, professional and especially family-based support and the desire for transparency and psychoeducation. Next to universal prevention, selective prevention efforts targeting children exposed to parental problem gambling are needed to reach the families at risk.

A digital health intervention for young refugees: intervention development and initial dropout rates

Background

Digital health interventions (DHI) have the potential to increase access to health care for vulnerable and hard-to-reach populations. As such, many refugees are at high-risk for mental health issues as well as underserved by health care systems of receiving countries, such as Germany. Interventions, digital or not, have shown to be more feasible and accepted if adapted to the specific needs of the targeted group. While evidence for the feasibility of DHIs among refugees is spare, studies show high dropout rates in DHIs in the general population.

Methods

In a participatory and interdisciplinary approach, we developed a DHI for indicated addiction prevention, targeting young refugees from Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan currently residing in Germany and with problematic use of alcohol and/or cannabis. This process consisted of a literature review, formative research, cultural adaptations of intervention elements, and ultimately the intervention's technical implementation following an iterative approach. The preliminary dropout rates immediately after download and during the baseline assessment were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

The DHI, in form of the BePrepared App, was successfully developed and launched in January 2021 for entering a single-armed feasibility study. Preliminary results show a dropout rate of 46,5% (n = 40) after download of the app and before entering the baseline assessment t0. Among the refugees reached and identified as such using the third item of t0, 73,3% (n = 11) completed t0 and started the intervention (compared to 83.3% (n = 25) of the users without a self-declared refugee status). The further intervention dropout is to be determined.

Conclusions

Adapting a DHI according to young refugees needs is to some extent possible. However, in accord with other DHI and regardless of the intervention content, dropout immediately after downloading the app (46.5%) and during the baseline assessment (58.1%) is high.

Key messages

Within a set of further urgently needed interventions, DHIs are a low-threshold service that can increase access for refugees to mental health and substance use services. Considering high and early dropout, further research on reducing dropout from app-based DHI for refugees and other specific target group is needed to increase the feasibility of digital interventions.

Whole-body [18F]-FDG-PET/MRI for staging of pediatric non-Hodgkin lymphoma: first results from a single-center evaluation

Aim

In 2015, the revised International Pediatric Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Staging System was published. It mentions [¹⁸F]-FDG-PET/MRI as the latest method to perform whole-body imaging. However, supporting data are pending. Our aim was to investigate the performance of whole-body [¹⁸F]-FDG-PET/MRI in pediatric non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients by using a limited number of MRI sequences.

Materials and methods

Ten pediatric patients with histologically proven non-Hodgkin lymphoma underwent whole-body [¹⁸F]-FDG-PET/MRI at staging. The retrospective analysis included three steps: First, [¹⁸F]-FDG-PET and MR scans were evaluated separately by a nuclear medicine physician and a pediatric radiologist. Nineteen nodal and two extranodal regions as well as six organs were checked for involvement. Second, discrepant findings were reviewed together in order to reach consensus. Third, [¹⁸F]-FDG-PET/MRI findings were correlated with the results of other clinical investigations.

Results

Of the 190 lymph node regions evaluated, four were rated controversial. Consensus was reached by considering metabolic, functional and morphologic information combined. Concordantly, [¹⁸F]-FDG-PET and MRI detected Waldeyer’s ring involvement in two patients whose Waldeyer’s ring was negative on clinical assessment. In four patients MRI showed pleural effusion. However, in only two of them an increased glucose metabolism as a reliable sign of pleural involvement was detectable. In six patients [¹⁸F]-FDG-PET and MRI detected skeletal lesions although bone marrow biopsy was positive in only one of them.

Conclusion

Despite the small number of cases evaluated, whole-body [¹⁸F]-FDG-PET turned out to be a valuable tool for staging of pediatric non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

[Which patient needs controls of laboratory values after elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy?-Can a score help?]

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is nearly exclusively carried out as an inpatient operation in Germany. The aim of the study was to evaluate for which patients postoperative laboratory control values are necessary.

METHODS

This retrospective analysis included 100 patients who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A scoring and data collection sheet was developed, which enables a risk stratification. Using the scoring system patients can achieve between 3 and 15 points.

RESULTS

In total 100 patients were included in the study. Of the patients 64 (group 1) had between 3 and 8 points, 29 patients (group 2) between 9 and 11 points and 7 patients (group 3) between 12 and 15 points. In comparison to group 1 the C‑reactive protein values as well as the duration of hospital stay were significantly increased in group 2 and group 3 (p > 0.05). In group1 a total of 60 patients (93.7%) were discharged regularly on postoperative days 1-3. In group 2 there were 17 patients (58.6%) who could be discharged with unremarkable blood values and in group 3 there were 3 patients (42.8%). In the total collective hospital discharge without a laboratory control of blood values would have been justified in 80% of the patients.

CONCLUSION

A postoperative control of laboratory blood values is not routinely necessary for patients after elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy with a score <9 points.

Learning Curves of Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy in Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review and Introduction of a Standardization

BACKGROUND

The most commonly performed bariatric procedures are laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Impact of learning curves on operative outcome has been well shown, but the necessary learning curves have not been clearly defined. This study provides a systematic review of the literature and proposes a standardization of phases of learning curves for RYGB and LSG.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed using PubMed, Web of Science, and CENTRAL databases. All studies specifying a number or range of approaches to characterize the learning curve for RYGB and LSG were selected.

RESULTS

A total of 28 publications related to learning curves for 27,770 performed bariatric surgeries were included. Parameters used to determine the learning curve were operative time, complications, conversions, length of stay, and blood loss. Learning curve range was 30-500 (RYGB) and 30-200 operations (LSG) according to different definitions and respective phases of learning curves. Learning phases described the number of procedures necessary to achieve predefined skill levels, such as competency, proficiency, and mastery.

CONCLUSIONS

Definitions of learning curves for bariatric surgery are heterogeneous. Introduction of the three skill phases competency, proficiency, and mastery is proposed to provide a standardized definition using multiple outcome variables to enable better comparison in the future. These levels are reached after 30-70, 70-150, and up to 500 RYGB, and after 30-50, 60-100, and 100-200 LSG. Training curricula, previous laparoscopic experience, and high procedure volume are hallmarks for successful outcomes during the learning curve.

Development of a cost-effective automated platform to produce human liver spheroids for basic and applied research

Liver disease represents an increasing cause of global morbidity and mortality. Currently, liver transplant is the only treatment curative for end-stage liver disease. Donor organs cannot meet the demand and therefore scalable treatments and new disease models are required to improve clinical intervention. Pluripotent stem cells represent a renewable source of human tissue. Recent advances in three-dimensional cell culture have provided the field with more complex systems that better mimic liver physiology and function. Despite these improvements, current cell-based models are variable in performance and expensive to manufacture at scale. This is due, in part, to the use of poorly defined or cross-species materials within the process, severely affecting technology translation. To address this issue, we have developed an automated and economical platform to produce liver tissue at scale for modelling disease and small molecule screening. Stem cell derived liver spheres were formed by combining hepatic progenitors with endothelial cells and stellate cells, in the ratios found within the liver. The resulting tissue permitted the study of human liver biology 'in the dish' and could be scaled for screening. In summary, we have developed an automated differentiation system that permits reliable self-assembly of human liver tissue for biomedical application. Going forward we believe that this technology will not only serve as anin vitroresource, and may have an important role to play in supporting failing liver function in humans.

Health status of free-ranging ring-necked pheasant chicks (Phasianus colchicus) in North-Western Germany

Being a typical ground-breeding bird of the agricultural landscape in Germany, the pheasant has experienced a strong and persistent population decline with a hitherto unexplained cause. Contributing factors to the ongoing negative trend, such as the effects of pesticides, diseases, predation, increase in traffic and reduced fallow periods, are currently being controversially discussed. In the present study, 62 free-ranging pheasant chicks were caught within a two-year period in three federal states of Germany; Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westphalia and Schleswig-Holstein. The pheasant chicks were divided into three age groups to detect differences in their development and physical constitution. In addition, pathomorphological, parasitological, virological, bacteriological and toxicological investigations were performed. The younger chicks were emaciated, while the older chicks were of moderate to good nutritional status. However, the latter age group was limited to a maximum of three chicks per hen, while the youngest age class comprised up to ten chicks. The majority of chicks suffered from dermatitis of the periocular and caudal region of the head (57-94%) of unknown origin. In addition, intestinal enteritis (100%), pneumonia (26%), hepatitis (24%), perineuritis (6%), tracheitis (24%), muscle degeneration (1%) and myositis (1%) were found. In 78% of the cases, various Mycoplasma spp. were isolated. Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) was not detected using an MG-specific PCR. Parasitic infections included Philopteridae (55%), Coccidia (48%), Heterakis/Ascaridia spp. (8%) and Syngamus trachea (13%). A total of 8% of the chicks were Avian metapneumovirus (AMPV) positive using RT-PCR, 16% positive for infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) using RT-PCR, and 2% positive for haemorrhagic enteritis virus (HEV) using PCR. All samples tested for avian encephalomyelitis virus (AEV), infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) or infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV) were negative. The pool samples of the ten chicks were negative for all acid, alkaline-free and derivative substances, while two out of three samples tested were positive for the herbicide glyphosate. Pheasant chick deaths may often have been triggered by poor nutritional status, probably in association with inflammatory changes in various tissues and organs as well as bacterial and parasitic pathogens. Theses impacts may have played a major role in the decline in pheasant populations.

Size-dependent influence of NOx on the growth rates of organic aerosol particles

Atmospheric new-particle formation (NPF) affects climate by contributing to a large fraction of the cloud condensation nuclei (CCN). Highly oxygenated organic molecules (HOMs) drive the early particle growth and therefore substantially influence the survival of newly formed particles to CCN. Nitrogen oxide (NOx) is known to suppress the NPF driven by HOMs, but the underlying mechanism remains largely unclear. Here, we examine the response of particle growth to the changes of HOM formation caused by NOx. We show that NOx suppresses particle growth in general, but the suppression is rather nonuniform and size dependent, which can be quantitatively explained by the shifted HOM volatility after adding NOx. By illustrating how NOx affects the early growth of new particles, a critical step of CCN formation, our results help provide a refined assessment of the potential climatic effects caused by the diverse changes of NOx level in forest regions around the globe.

Consensus on definition and severity grading of lymphatic complications after kidney transplantation

BACKGROUND

The incidence of lymphatic complications after kidney transplantation varies considerably in the literature. This is partly because a universally accepted definition has not been established. This study aimed to propose an acceptable definition and severity grading system for lymphatic complications based on their management strategy.

METHODS

Relevant literature published in MEDLINE and Web of Science was searched systematically. A consensus for definition and a severity grading was then sought between 20 high-volume transplant centres.

RESULTS

Lymphorrhoea/lymphocele was defined in 32 of 87 included studies. Sixty-three articles explained how lymphatic complications were managed, but none graded their severity. The proposed definition of lymphorrhoea was leakage of more than 50 ml fluid (not urine, blood or pus) per day from the drain, or the drain site after removal of the drain, for more than 1 week after kidney transplantation. The proposed definition of lymphocele was a fluid collection of any size near to the transplanted kidney, after urinoma, haematoma and abscess have been excluded. Grade A lymphatic complications have a minor and/or non-invasive impact on the clinical management of the patient; grade B complications require non-surgical intervention; and grade C complications require invasive surgical intervention.

CONCLUSION

A clear definition and severity grading for lymphatic complications after kidney transplantation was agreed. The proposed definitions should allow better comparisons between studies.

[Patient blood management : Medical concept for increasing patient safety]

Patient blood management (PBM) is a multidisciplinary evidence-based treatment model. Aims are to provide treatment of pre-existing or recently occureed deficits in blood volume and of substances that are important for erythropoiesis in patients, as well as the targeted administration of cellular and non-cellular blood products within reasonable and scientifically proven limits. The overall goal is therefore a safe therapy and complication-free course of the disease. PBM follows a strategy based on three pillars, which encompasses the aspects of optimization of anemia and hemoglobin, the handling of bleeding and the use of patient-related resources.

Fast Peroxy Radical Isomerization and OH Recycling in the Reaction of OH Radicals with Dimethyl Sulfide

Dimethyl sulfide (DMS), produced by marine organisms, represents the most abundant, biogenic sulfur emission into the Earth's atmosphere. The gas-phase degradation of DMS is mainly initiated by the reaction with the OH radical forming first CH₃SCH₂O₂ radicals from the dominant H-abstraction channel. It is experimentally shown that these peroxy radicals undergo a two-step isomerization process finally forming a product consistent with the formula HOOCH₂SCHO. The isomerization process is accompanied by OH recycling. The rate-limiting first isomerization step, CH₃SCH₂O₂ → CH₂SCH₂OOH, followed by O₂ addition, proceeds with k = (0.23 ± 0.12) s^-1 at 295 ± 2 K. Competing bimolecular CH₃SCH₂O₂ reactions with NO, HO₂, or RO₂ radicals are less important for trace-gas conditions over the oceans. Results of atmospheric chemistry simulations demonstrate the predominance (≥95%) of CH₃SCH₂O₂ isomerization. The rapid peroxy radical isomerization, not yet considered in models, substantially changes the understanding of DMS's degradation processes in the atmosphere.

Tubulin is actively exported from the nucleus through the Exportin1/CRM1 pathway

Microtubules of all eukaryotic cells are formed by α- and β-tubulin heterodimers. In addition to the well known cytoplasmic tubulins, a subpopulation of tubulin can occur in the nucleus. So far, the potential function of nuclear tubulin has remained elusive. In this work, we show that α- and β-tubulins of various organisms contain multiple conserved nuclear export sequences, which are potential targets of the Exportin 1/CRM1 pathway. We demonstrate exemplarily that these NES motifs are sufficient to mediate export of GFP as model cargo and that this export can be inhibited by leptomycin B, an inhibitor of the Exportin 1/CRM1 pathway. Likewise, leptomycin B causes accumulation of GFP-tagged tubulin in interphase nuclei, in both plant and animal model cells. Our analysis of nuclear tubulin content supports the hypothesis that an important function of nuclear tubulin export is the exclusion of tubulin from interphase nuclei, after being trapped by nuclear envelope reassembly during telophase.

Severe Case of Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: Recovery after Injection of Procaine into the Vesicoprostatic Plexus-Case Report and Discussion of Pathophysiology and Mechanisms of Action

We describe a patient with a 35-year history of a severe chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) that failed to adequately respond to various drug therapies and other treatments by different specialists. In addition to the ongoing chronic pain, he suffered from week-long episodes of increased pain with no discernible trigger. At the first consultation with us the patient was in a particularly severe pain phase. He was taking four different analgesically effective drugs. In terms of therapeutic local anesthesia (neural therapy), we performed suprapubic injection of procaine 1% with infiltration of the vesicoprostatic plexus. Just a few minutes later, the pain decreased significantly. To maintain and further increase the effect, we performed the injection six more times. The patient gradually reduced and stopped all drugs and remained free of pain and discomfort ever since. This is the first report of a successful therapeutic infiltration of the vesicoprostatic plexus using a local anesthetic (LA) in a patient with CPPS that has been refractory to different treatments for many years. A possible explanation may be that the positive feedback loops maintaining pain and neurogenic inflammation are disrupted by LA infiltration. This can lead to a new organisation (self-organisation) of the pain-processing systems.

Stabilisation of acute-on-chronic liver failure patients before liver transplantation predicts post-transplant survival

BACKGROUND

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a severe complication of liver cirrhosis associated with excess short-term mortality rates. Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is a potentially life-saving therapeutic modality for acute-on-chronic liver failure patients, but selection of transplant candidates with an acceptable post-transplant outcome is difficult.

AIM

To assess the risk of liver transplantation in patients with ACLF, and to determine parameters that predict post-transplant survival in this patient cohort.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed all 250 patients with cirrhosis who underwent their first liver transplantation between 2009 and 2014 at our institution, and assessed post-transplant outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 250 cirrhotic liver transplant recipients, 98 patients fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for acute-on-chronic liver failure in the 3-month pre-transplant period. Compared to non-ACLF patients, ACLF was associated with significantly higher short-term morbidity and mortality after liver transplantation (90-day patient survival 96.1% non-ACLF vs 72.4% ACLF patients, P < 0.0001). Clinical improvement in the pre-transplant period, as defined by recovery of at least one previously failed organ system, was observed in 37 of 98 acute-on-chronic liver failure patients, mostly within several days after diagnosis. Most notably, clinical improvement prior to liver transplantation was associated with excellent post-transplant survival rates that approximated non-ACLF transplant recipients. Following the 90-day post-transplant period, patient survival and long-term graft functions were comparable between ACLF and non-ACLF liver transplant recipients for up to 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Acute-on-chronic liver failure predicts adverse outcome after orthotopic liver transplantation. Given the dismal prognosis without transplantation, however, our results indicate that ACLF patients can be transplanted with comparably good outcomes, in particular patients who improve under conservative therapeutic measures.

LapTrain: multi-modality training curriculum for laparoscopic cholecystectomy-results of a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Multiple training modalities for laparoscopy have different advantages, but little research has been conducted on the benefit of a training program that includes multiple different training methods compared to one method only. This study aimed to evaluate benefits of a combined multi-modality training program for surgical residents.

METHODS

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) was performed on a porcine liver as the pre-test. Randomization was stratified for experience to the multi-modality Training group (12 h of training on Virtual Reality (VR) and box trainer) or Control group (no training). The post-test consisted of a VR LC and porcine LC. Performance was rated with the Global Operative Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills (GOALS) score by blinded experts.

RESULTS

Training (n = 33) and Control (n = 31) were similar in the pre-test (GOALS: 13.7 ± 3.4 vs. 14.7 ± 2.6; p = 0.198; operation time 57.0 ± 18.1 vs. 63.4 ± 17.5 min; p = 0.191). In the post-test porcine LC, Training had improved GOALS scores (+ 2.84 ± 2.85 points, p < 0.001), while Control did not (+ 0.55 ± 2.34 points, p = 0.154). Operation time in the post-test was shorter for Training vs. Control (40.0 ± 17.0 vs. 55.0 ± 22.2 min; p = 0.012). Junior residents improved GOALS scores to the level of senior residents (pre-test: 13.7 ± 2.7 vs. 18.3 ± 2.9; p = 0.010; post-test: 15.5 ± 3.4 vs. 18.8 ± 3.8; p = 0.120) but senior residents remained faster (50.1 ± 20.6 vs. 25.0 ± 1.9 min; p < 0.001). No differences were found between groups on the post-test VR trainer.

CONCLUSIONS

Structured multi-modality training is beneficial for novices to improve basics and overcome the initial learning curve in laparoscopy as well as to decrease operation time for LCs in different stages of experience. Future studies should evaluate multi-modality training in comparison with single modalities.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00011040.

Meta-analysis of metabolic surgery versus medical treatment for microvascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background

This study aimed to examine the effect of metabolic surgery on pre-existing and future microvascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in comparison with medical treatment. Although metabolic surgery is the most effective treatment for obese patients with T2DM regarding glycaemic control, it is unclear whether the incidence or severity of microvascular complications is reduced.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed in MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) with no language restrictions, looking for RCTs, case–control trials and cohort studies that assessed the effect of metabolic surgery on the incidence of microvascular diabetic complications compared with medical treatment as control. The study was registered in the International prospective register of systematic reviews (CRD42016042994).

Results

The literature search yielded 1559 articles. Ten studies (3 RCTs, 7 controlled clinical trials) investigating 17 532 patients were included. Metabolic surgery reduced the incidence of microvascular complications (odds ratio 0·26, 95 per cent c.i. 0·16 to 0·42; P &lt; 0·001) compared with medical treatment. Pre-existing diabetic nephropathy was strongly improved by metabolic surgery versus medical treatment (odds ratio 15·41, 1·28 to 185·46; P = 0·03).

Conclusion

In patients with T2DM, metabolic surgery prevented the development of microvascular complications better than medical treatment. Metabolic surgery improved pre-existing diabetic nephropathy compared with medical treatment.

Outcome and natural course of renal dysfunction in liver transplant recipients with severely impaired kidney function prior to transplantation

Background

Since introduction of the MELD score in the liver allograft allocation system, renal insufficiency has emerged as an increasing problem. Here we evaluated the course of kidney function in patients with advanced renal insufficiency prior to liver transplantation (LT).

Methods

A total of 254 patients undergoing LT at the University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf (2011-2015) were screened for renal impairment (GFR < 30 ml/min) prior to LT in this observational study.

Results

Eighty (32%) patients (median 60 years; M/F: 48/32) had significant renal impairment prior to LT. Median follow-up post-LT was 619 days. Patient survival at 90 days, one year and two years was 76%, 66% and 64%, respectively. Need for dialysis postoperatively but not preoperatively was associated with increased mortality (p < 0.05). Renal function improved in 75% of survivors, but 78% of patients had chronic kidney disease ≥ stage 3 at end of follow-up. Of eight (16%) survivors remaining on long-term dialysis, so far only four patients have received a kidney transplant.

Conclusion

Postoperative dialysis affected long-term mortality. In 75% of survivors renal function improved, but still the majority of patients had an impaired renal function (CKD stage 3-5) at end of follow-up. Future studies should elucidate the impact of kidney dysfunction and dialysis on recipients' long-term survival.

[The way from cost approval to bariatric surgery : Analysis of resource utilization in a maximum care hospital]

BACKGROUND

Morbid obesity is a medical and economic challenge. Patients who have the indications for bariatric surgery face a long way from the first visit until surgery and a high utilization of resources is required.

OBJECTIVES

The present study aimed to evaluate labor costs and labor time required to supervise obese patients from their first visit until preparation of a bariatric report to ask for cost acceptance of bariatric surgery from their health insurance. In addition, the reasons for not receiving bariatric surgery after receiving cost acceptance from the health insurance were evaluated.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients who had indications for bariatric surgery according to the S3 guidelines between 2012 and 2013, were evaluated regarding labor costs and labor time of the process from the first visit until receiving cost acceptance from their health insurance. Furthermore, body mass index (BMI), age, sex, Edmonton Obesity Staging System (EOSS) stage and comorbidities were evaluated. Patients who had not received surgery up to December 2015 were contacted via telephone to ask for the reasons.

RESULTS

In the present study 176 patients were evaluated (110 females, 62.5%). Until preparation of a bariatric report the patients required an average of 2.7 combined visits in the department of surgery with the department of nutrition, 1.7 visits in the department of psychosomatic medicine, 1.5 separate visits in the department of nutrition and 1.4 visits in the department of internal medicine. Average labor costs from the first visit until the bariatric survey were 404.90 ± 117.00 euros and 130 out of 176 bariatric reports were accepted by the health insurance (73.8%). For another 40 patients a second bariatric survey was made and 20 of these (50%) were accepted, which results in a total acceptance rate of 85.2% (150 out of 176). After a mean follow-up of 2.8 ± 1.1 years only 93 out of 176 patients had received bariatric surgery (53.8%). Of these 16 had received acceptance of surgery by their health insurance only after a second bariatric survey.

CONCLUSION

A large amount of labor and financial resources are required for treatment of obese patients from first presentation up to bariatric surgery. The cost-benefit calculation of an obesity center needs to include that approximately one half of the patients do not receive surgery within more than 2.5 years.