Mandibular Notch Contouring in Temporomandibular Joint Replacement. Technical Note

Temporomandibular Joint Replacement (TMJ-R) is used to treat maxillomandibular disease related to condylar head augmentation, condylar head reduction, absence of the condylar head and TMJ reconstruction. In most of the cases, TMJ-R could be used together with orthognathic surgery. In cases with facial asymmetry related to overgrowth of the mandibular condyle as in the cases of osteochondroma, there is a progressive facial asymmetry with enlargement of the unilateral mandibular ramus and mandibular body, creating strong mandibular contouring when comparing to the contralateral side. Usually, in this case, a lack is observed in the antegonial notch. ​The aim of this technical note ​is to provide the strategy to obtain facial symmetry using the TMJ prosthesis and contouring osteotomy in the same procedure.

Revisiting Javal's rule: a fresh and improved power vector approach according to age

PURPOSE

The scientific community has established Javal's rule as a model linking refractive (RA) and keratometric (KA) astigmatism since its appearance more than 100 years ago. The aim was to improve the accuracy of this relationship according to subject's age by applying the power vector analysis. Posterior corneal curvature has also been studied.

METHODS

The IOLMaster 700 optical biometer was used to measure the corneal thickness and the radius of curvature of the anterior and posterior corneal surfaces. Refractive error was determined by a non-cycloplegic subjective refraction process with trial lenses. Linear regression analyses were applied using J0 and J45 power vector components. An evaluation was carried out according to the subject's age resulting into eight regression relationships for each astigmatic vector component for each relationship.

RESULTS

A total of 2254 right eyes from 2254 healthy subjects were evaluated. A trend towards against-the-rule astigmatism (ATR) was found with aging, both for refractive astigmatism (RA) and keratometric astigmatism (KA), with 95.2% of subjects under 20 years old having with-the-rule (WTR) KA, and only 22.8% above 79 years old. The following regression equations were found between RA and KA: [Formula: see text] = 0.73 × [Formula: see text] - 0.18 (R = 0.78) and [Formula: see text] = 0.70 × [Formula: see text] + 0.04 (R = 0.69) and between RA and total corneal astigmatism (TCA): [Formula: see text] = 0.73 × [Formula: see text] + 0.13 (R=0.78) and [Formula: see text] = 0.70 × [Formula: see text] - 0.06 (R = 0.68) for the whole sample, but with sensible differences among age groups, both in the slope and in the intercept.

CONCLUSION

Ignoring the age of the subject when using Javal's rule could lead to an error in the final cylinder calculation that would increase in high astigmatisms. Applying this new power vector approach based on subject's age could improve the accuracy of the astigmatism prediction.

Vision-Related Quality of Life after Cataract Surgery in West Africa

PURPOSE

To study vision related quality of life (VRQoL) before and after a massive cataract campaign in West Africa and the relationship with visual indicators.

METHODS

All the patients who received cataract surgery in Burkina Faso during a blindness prevention campaign were examined. VRQoL was assessed using a modified version of the WHO/PBD VF20. The questionnaire was changed to reflect the socioeconomic and local culture. Patients were interviewed by local interviewers before and three months after surgery. A quality of life related to vision index (QoL-RVI) was calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 305 patients underwent cataract extraction in at least one eye, of these, a total of 196 (64%) completed the study. Mean age was 61.97 ± 14.39 years. The majority of eyes had poor visual acuity (VA<20/200, log MAR: 1.0) preoperatively (88.70%) with a mean VA of logMAR 2.17 ± 0.70 (20/2000) which improved to 0.86 ± 0.64 LogMAR (20/150) 3 months after cataract surgery. QoL-RVI improved postoperatively in 90.2% of patients, did not change in 3.1% and was worse in 6.7%. Statistically significant differences were detected (Wilcoxon test p <0.05) for all items tested before and after surgeries. Correlations for the patients after operations showed that there was a statistically significant relation between a global estimated QoL-RVI and the VA previous to the surgery (-0.196 p=0.014), regarding the same index and the VA after the procedures (-0,35 p=0,00018).

CONCLUSION

Cataract surgery increases the quality of life of patients living in a developing country such as Burkina Faso and the improvement correlates with the recovery of the visual acuity.

[Monitoring of anticoagulant treatment with Unfractionated Heparin in pediatrics]

Unfractionated heparin (UFH) is the most widely used anticoagulant in hospitalized patients. The therapeutic range (TR) was defined in adults according to the prolongation of the activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT). However, the recommendation is to maintain a therapeutic range with anti-factor Xa assay (antiFXa). As this technique is more complex to perform and less available, it is recommended to make local correlation curves of aPTT with antiFXa.

OBJECTIVE

to determine the correlation between the values of aPTT and antiFXa in patients treated with UFH.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

52 patients between 2 days to 14 years of age hospitalized in the Pediatric Critical Patient Unit were recruited. They received treatment with UFH in continuous infusion for at least 24 hours. aPTT and antiFXa tests were performed according to the moment of anticoagulation. To evaluate the concordance of the levels of aPTT with those of antiFXa, the Kappa statistical coefficient of Landis and Koch was used.

RESULTS

105 samples were collected from 52 patients. The overall concordance was 0.452 (moderate correlation). In patients aged < 1 month (n = 40), a considerable correlation was evident (r = 0.617); in those from 1 month to < 6 months (n = 18) and 6 months - < 12 months with aPTT < 120 seconds (n = 11), also showed a considerable correlation (r = 0.636 and 0.615, respec tively), while in those aged > 12 months (n = 37) with aPTT < 120 seconds, a moderate correlation was evident (r = 0.454).

CONCLUSION

In our population, there is a moderate correlation between the values of aPTT and antiFXa.

Aligning Global Efforts for a Carbon Neutral World: The Race to Zero Campaign

According to the United Nations, in order to avoid some of the worst outcomes of climate change, the world must achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 at the very latest. That is the aim of the Race to Zero Campaign. Since 2019, more than 10,000 organizations around the world have embraced Race to Zero, which has been able to successfully create a relevant, global, and diverse cross-sector partnership, tearing down the barriers that have emerged from uncertainty. Building on three key cross-partnership elements (strategic, institutional, and learning), combined with the uncertainties faced by the partners, we describe the resources and activities that have made that possible.

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome in a postoperative patient: A case report

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare medical emergency associated with the use of antipsychotics and other antidopaminergic drugs. There is no specific test, and diagnosis is based on high clinical suspicion and good differential diagnosis. A clinical picture consistent with hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, altered level of consciousness, together with signs of rhabdomyolysis in analytical studies and a history of taking neuroleptic drugs are the key elements in the detection of this entity. Due to its low incidence and potential mortality, it is essential to publish case reports of neuroleptic malignant syndrome in order to raise awareness of this entity and facilitate diagnostic suspicion when encountering a patient with compatible symptoms. The following is the case of a 79 year old patient with chronic alcohol consumption as the only history of interest, who was given a single dose of haloperidol after an episode of delirium in the postoperative period of conventional trauma surgery. She subsequently developed a picture of progressive deterioration of the level of consciousness, diaphoresis, generalized muscle rigidity, hyperthermia, together with severe metabolic acidosis, hyperlacticaemia, rhabdomyolysis, hypertransaminasemia and hypocalcemia. After ruling out other entities compatible with the clinical picture, neuroleptic malignant syndrome was given as the main diagnostic hypothesis. Diagnosis was confirmed after clinical and analytical improvement following treatment with dantrolene. The patient was discharged from hospital with no sequelae a few days after onset of the condition.

An introduction to the sources, fate, occurrence and effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals released into the environment

Many classes of compounds are known or suspected to disrupt the endocrine system of vertebrate and invertebrate organisms. This review of the sources and fate of selected endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the environment includes classes of compounds that are "legacy" contaminants, as well as contaminants of emerging concern. EDCs included for discussion are organochlorine compounds, halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons, brominated flame retardants, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, alkylphenols, phthalates, bisphenol A and analogues, pharmaceuticals, drugs of abuse and steroid hormones, personal care products, and organotins. An exhaustive survey of the fate of these contaminants in all environmental media (e.g., air, water, soil, biota, foods and beverages) is beyond the scope of this review, so the priority is to highlight the fate of EDCs in environmental media for which there is a clear link between exposure and endocrine effects in humans or in biota from other taxa. Where appropriate, linkages are also made between the fate of EDCs and regulatory limits such as environmental quality guidelines for water and sediments and total daily intake values for humans.

Methods for the analysis of endocrine disrupting chemicals in selected environmental matrixes

Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are heterogenous in structure, chemical and physical properties, and their capacity to partition into various environmental matrixes. In many cases, these chemicals can disrupt the endocrine systems of vertebrate and invertebrate organisms when present at very low concentrations. Therefore, sensitive and varied analytical methods are required to detect these compounds in the environment. This review summarizes the analytical methods and instruments that are most used to monitor for EDCs in selected environmental matrixes. Only those matrixes for which there is a clear link between exposures and endocrine effects are included in this review. Also discussed are emerging methods for sample preparation and advanced analytical instruments that provide greater selectivity and sensitivity.

Visual and Refractive Outcomes of Toric Implantable Collamer Lens Implantation in Stable Keratoconus After Combined Topography-Guided PRK and CXL

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of toric implantable Collamer lens (ICL) (STAAR Surgical) implanted at least 6 months after combined topography-guided photorefractive keratotomy (TG-PRK) and corneal cross-linking (CXL) in keratoconus.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 46 eyes with keratoconus of 31 patients who underwent toric ICL implantation after previous TG-PRK+CXL. Patients were examined for uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuity, flat and steep keratometry, and manifest refraction spherical equivalent preoperatively and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

At 12 months postoperatively, there was a statistically significant improvement in visual and refractive outcomes (all P < .001). Mean UDVA improved to 0.17 ± 0.14 logMAR (vs 1.00 ± 0.38 logMAR preoperatively) and mean manifest refraction spherical equivalent improved to -0.32 ± 1.42 diopters (D) (vs -7.35 ± 5.20 D preoperatively). At 12 months, 63% of eyes achieved UDVA of 20/32 or better and 60.9% of eyes were within ±0.50 D of manifest refraction spherical equivalent. Mean refractive astigmatism improved from -2.90 ± 2.21 D preoperatively to -1.47 ± 1.46 D at postoperative 12 months (P < .001), with 30.4% and 45.7% of eyes having a postoperative astigmatic error within ±0.50 and ±1.00 D, respectively. No complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Toric ICL implantation was found to be safe and effective for the correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism in patients with stable keratoconus who had undergone TG-PRK+CXL, as revealed by the statistically significant improvement in visual and refractive outcomes at 12 months after toric ICL implantation. [J Refract Surg. 2021;37(12):824-829.].

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome in a postoperative patient: a case report

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome is a rare medical emergency associated with the use of antipsychotics and other antidopaminergic drugs. There is no specific test, and diagnosis is based on high clinical suspicion and good differential diagnosis. A clinical picture consistent with hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, altered level of consciousness, together with signs of rhabdomyolysis in analytical studies and a history of taking neuroleptic drugs are the key elements in the detection of this entity. Due to its low incidence and potential mortality, it is essential to publish case reports of neuroleptic malignant syndrome in order to raise awareness of this entity and facilitate diagnostic suspicion when encountering a patient with compatible symptoms. The following is the case of a 79 year old patient with chronic alcohol consumption as the only history of interest, who was given a single dose of haloperidol after an episode of delirium in the postoperative period of conventional trauma surgery. She subsequently developed a picture of progressive deterioration of the level of consciousness, diaphoresis, generalized muscle rigidity, hyperthermia, together with severe metabolic acidosis, hyperlacticaemia, rhabdomyolysis, hypertransaminasemia and hypocalcemia. After ruling out other entities compatible with the clinical picture, neuroleptic malignant syndrome was given as the main diagnostic hypothesis. Diagnosis was confirmed after clinical and analytical improvement following treatment with dantrolene. The patient was discharged from hospital with no sequelae a few days after onset of the condition.

Randomized comparison between pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block and suprainguinal fascia iliaca block for total hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

This randomized trial compared ultrasound-guided pericapsular nerve group block and suprainguinal fascia iliaca block in patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty. We selected the postoperative incidence of quadriceps motor block (defined as paresis or paralysis of knee extension) at 6 hours as the primary outcome. We hypothesized that, compared with suprainguinal fascia iliaca block, pericapsular nerve group block would decrease its occurrence from 70% to 20%.

METHODS

Forty patients undergoing primary total hip arthroplasty under spinal anesthesia were randomly allocated to receive a pericapsular nerve group block (n=20) using 20 mL of adrenalized levobupivacaine 0.50%, or a suprainguinal fascia iliaca block (n=20) using 40 mL of adrenalized levobupivacaine 0.25%. After the performance of the block, a blinded observer recorded pain scores at 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, and 48 hours; cumulative breakthrough morphine consumption at 24 and 48 hours; opioid-related side effects; ability to perform physiotherapy at 24 and 48 hours; as well as length of stay. Furthermore, the blinded observer also carried out sensory assessment (of the anterior, lateral, and medial aspects of the mid-thigh) and motor assessment (knee extension and hip adduction) at 3, 6, and 24 hours.

RESULTS

Compared with suprainguinal fascia iliaca block, pericapsular nerve group block resulted in a lower incidence of quadriceps motor block at 3 hours (45% vs 90%; p<0.001) and 6 hours (25% vs 85%; p<0.001). Furthermore, pericapsular nerve group block also provided better preservation of hip adduction at 3 hours (p=0.023) as well as decreased sensory block of the anterior, lateral, and medial thighs at all measurement intervals (all p≤0.014). No clinically significant intergroup differences were found in terms of postoperative pain scores, cumulative opioid consumption at 24 and 48 hours, ability to perform physiotherapy, opioid-related side effects, and length of hospital stay.

CONCLUSION

For primary total hip arthroplasty, pericapsular nerve group block results in better preservation of motor function than suprainguinal fascia iliaca block. Additional investigation is required to elucidate the optimal local anesthetic volume for motor-sparing pericapsular nerve group block and to compare the latter with alternate motor-sparing strategies such as periarticular local anesthetic infiltration.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04402450.

Retinal detachment after phacoemulsification in refractive surgery clinics: a large series analysis with variable follow-up during 16 years

PURPOSE

To determine the long-term incidence of pseudophakic retinal detachment (PRD) after phacoemulsification and the weight of the main risk factors in the appearance of such complication in a large sample. To implement a customized formula and a software calculation program able to quantify the risk of suffering PRD applicable to all lens extraction patients.

METHODS

Retrospective cumulative risk analysis conducted on 178,515 eyes operated under similar conditions in a group of refractive surgery clinics (Clínica Baviera SL) located in a relatively limited geographical area (Spain). A survival analysis was performed and the data were modelled using the Weibull regression to determine the risk over a period of 16 years and to estimate the association of different risk factors: sex, age, axial length (AXL) of the eye, intraoperative posterior capsule rents (PCR), and YAG laser capsulotomies. The resulting estimates were translated into a predictive equation for hazard rates and survival probabilities. Later, an application was developed to make prediction available for the clinical community in order to estimate the potential risk of any hypothetical case before lens surgery.

RESULTS

Globally, 1521 (0.85%) cases of PRD were diagnosed during the period. The risk for PRD was significantly greater in males (5.48 [2.94-10.2]; p < 0.001), in long eyes (1.24 [1.21-1.26]; p < 0.001), and also after posterior capsule rents (13.97 [11.61-16.82]; p < 0.001). Posterior capsule rupture increased the risk of PRD up to fourteen times.

CONCLUSIONS

From weaker to stronger impact, age, axial length, sex, and intraoperative posterior capsule rent were significant risk factors for the appearance of PRD after lens extraction.

Patient characteristics, clinical course and factors associated to ICU mortality in critically ill patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 in Spain: A prospective, cohort, multicentre study

Background

The clinical course of COVID-19 critically ill patients, during their admission in the intensive care unit (UCI), including medical and infectious complications and support therapies, as well as their association with in-ICU mortality has not been fully reported.

Objective

This study aimed to describe clinical characteristics and clinical course of ICU COVID-19 patients, and to determine risk factors for ICU mortality of COVID-19 patients.

Methods

Prospective, multicentre, cohort study that enrolled critically ill COVID-19 patients admitted into 30 ICUs from Spain and Andorra. Consecutive patients from March 12th to May 26th, 2020 were enrolled if they had died or were discharged from ICU during the study period. Demographics, symptoms, vital signs, laboratory markers, supportive therapies, pharmacological treatments, medical and infectious complications were reported and compared between deceased and discharged patients.

Results

A total of 663 patients were included. Overall ICU mortality was 31% (203 patients). At ICU admission non-survivors were more hypoxemic [SpO₂ with non-rebreather mask, 90 (IQR 83–93) vs 91 (IQR 87–94); p < 0.001] and with higher sequential organ failure assessment score [SOFA, 7 (IQR 5–9) vs 4 (IQR 3–7); p < 0.001]. Complications were more frequent in non-survivors: acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) (95% vs 89%; p = 0.009), acute kidney injury (AKI) (58% vs 24%; p < 10⁻¹⁶), shock (42% vs 14%; p < 10⁻¹³), and arrhythmias (24% vs 11%; p < 10⁻⁴). Respiratory super-infection, bloodstream infection and septic shock were higher in non-survivors (33% vs 25%; p = 0.03, 33% vs 23%; p = 0.01 and 15% vs 3%, p = 10⁻⁷), respectively. The multivariable regression model showed that age was associated with mortality, with every year increasing risk-of-death by 1% (95%CI: 1–10, p = 0.014). Each 5-point increase in APACHE II independently predicted mortality [OR: 1.508 (1.081, 2.104), p = 0.015]. Patients with AKI [OR: 2.468 (1.628, 3.741), p < 10⁻⁴)], cardiac arrest [OR: 11.099 (3.389, 36.353), p = 0.0001], and septic shock [OR: 3.224 (1.486, 6.994), p = 0.002] had an increased risk-of-death.

Conclusions

Older COVID-19 patients with higher APACHE II scores on admission, those who developed AKI grades II or III and/or septic shock during ICU stay had an increased risk-of-death. ICU mortality was 31%.

Patient characteristics, clinical course and factors associated to ICU mortality in critically ill patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 in Spain: A prospective, cohort, multicentre study

Antecedentes

No se ha reportado plenamente la evolución clínica de los pacientes críticos de COVID-19 durante su ingreso en la unidad de cuidados intensivos (UCI), incluyendo las complicaciones médicas e infecciosas y terapias de soporte, así como su asociación con la mortalidad en UCI.

Objetivo

El objetivo de este estudio es describir las características clínicas y la evolución de los pacientes ingresados en UCI por COVID-19 y determinar los factores de riesgo de la mortalidad en UCI de dichos pacientes.

Métodos

Estudio prospectivo, multicéntrico y de cohorte, que incluyó a los pacientes críticos de COVID-19 ingresados en 30 UCI de España y Andorra. Se incluyó a los pacientes consecutivos del 12 de marzo al 26 de mayo del 2020 si habían fallecido o habían recibido el alta de la UCI durante el periodo de estudio. Se reportaron los datos demográficos, los síntomas, los signos vitales, los marcadores de laboratorio, las terapias de soporte, terapias farmacológicas y las complicaciones médicas e infecciosas, realizándose una comparación entre los pacientes fallecidos y los pacientes dados de alta.

Resultados

Se incluyó a un total de 663 pacientes. La mortalidad general en UCI fue del 31% (203 pacientes). Al ingreso en UCI los no supervivientes eran más hipoxémicos (SpO₂ con mascarilla de no reinhalación, de 90 [RIC 83-93] vs. 91 [RIC 87-94]; p < 0,001] y con mayor puntuación en la escala SOFA-Evaluación de daño orgánico secuencial (SOFA, 7 [RIC 5-9] vs. 4 [RIC 3-7]; p <0,001]). Las complicaciones fueron más frecuentes en los no supervivientes: síndrome de distrés respiratorio agudo (SDRA) (95% vs. 89%; p = 0,009), insuficiencia renal aguda (IRA) (58% vs. 24%; p < 10^–6), shock (42% vs. 14%; p < 10^–13) y arritmias (24% vs. 11%; p < 10^–4). Las superinfecciones respiratorias, infecciones del torrente sanguíneo y los shock sépticos fueron más frecuentes en los no supervivientes (33% vs. 25%; p = 0,03, 33% vs. 23%; p = 0,01 y 15% vs. 3%, p = 10^–7, respectivamente). El modelo de regresión multivariable reflejó que la edad estaba asociada a la mortalidad y que cada año incrementaba el riesgo de muerte en un 1% (IC del 95%: 1-10, p = 0,014). Cada incremento de 5 puntos en la escala APACHE II predijo de manera independiente la mortalidad (odds ratio [OR]: 1,508 [1,081, 2,104], p = 0,015). Los pacientes con IRA (OR: 2,468 [1,628, 3,741], p < 10^–4)], paro cardiaco (OR: 11,099 [3,389, 36,353], p = 0,0001] y shock séptico [OR: 3,224 [1,486, 6,994], p= 0,002) tuvieron un riesgo de muerte incrementado.

Conclusiones

Los pacientes mayores de COVID-19 con puntuaciones APACHE II más altas al ingreso, que desarrollaron IRA en grados ii o iii o shock séptico durante la estancia en UCI tuvieron un riesgo de muerte incrementado. La mortalidad en UCI fue del 31%.

Chronic deltoid ligament insufficiency repair with Internal Brace™ augmentation

BACKGROUND

Patients with chronic deltoid ligament insufficiency (CDLI) present a challenging situation. Although numerous procedures have been described, optimal treatment is still a matter of debate. While the treatment armamentarium ranges from simple ligament repair to complex reconstructions with or without realignment osteotomies, direct repair augmented with an Internal Brace™ device appears to be an attractive intermediate option. We investigated functional outcomes and complications in patients with CDLI operated on using Internal Brace™ augmentation.

METHODS

A prospective study was conducted. Patients were included if they presented medial ankle pain and/or giving way, exhibited asymmetric flexible hindfoot valgus, failed conservative treatment, and had a positive MRI evaluated by an independent radiologist. Patients with stage IV flatfoot deformity, neuropathy and/or inflammatory arthritis were excluded. CDLI was confirmed intraoperatively with the arthroscopic drive-through sign. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively using FAAM, SF-36 and grade of satisfaction. Paired t-tests were used to assess FAAM and SF-36 scores variation.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients met inclusion criteria. No patient was lost to follow-up, with a mean follow-up time of 13.5 months (range 6-21). Preoperative FAAM and SF-36 scores improved from 58.7 to 75.3 and from 60.2 to 84.4 postoperatively, respectively (p<.01). Two implant failures were observed, with no apparent compromise of construct stability. No patient was re-operated.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that deltoid ligament repair with Internal Brace™ augmentation in patients with CDLI is a reliable option with good functional outcomes and high satisfaction grade in short term follow-up.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

RNA-Seq blood transcriptome profiling in familial attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

We have carried an exploratory study by blood transcriptome to find RNA expression signatures in familial ADHD. Samples were collected from three cases with familial ADHD and their paired controls and evaluated by RNA-Seq. Transcriptome profiling identified 7 differentially expressed transcripts with a FDR <0.05 that were involved in pathways in Huntington's disease or axonal guidance signaling previously implicated in ADHD, and enriched for signal peptide, growth factor binding, and notably the lipid metabolism pathways. These findings show that blood transcriptome can have an associated signature and highlight a potential to use blood transcriptome to identify patterns of ADHD.

Modified SureSelectQXT Target Enrichment Protocol for Illumina Multiplexed Sequencing of FFPE Samples

Background

Personalised medicine is nowadays a major objective in oncology. Molecular characterization of tumours through NGS offers the possibility to find possible therapeutic targets in a time- and cost-effective way. However, the low quality and complexity of FFPE DNA samples bring a series of disadvantages for massive parallel sequencing techniques compared to high-quality DNA samples (from blood cells, cell cultures, etc.).

Results

We performed several experiments to understand the behaviour of FFPE DNA samples during the construction of SureSelect^QXT libraries. First, we designed a quality checkpoint for FFPE DNA samples based on the quantification of their amplification capability (qcPCR). We observed that FFPE DNA samples can be classified according to DIN value and qcPCR concentration into unusable, or low-quality (LQ) and good-quality (GQ) DNA. For GQ samples, we increased the amount of input DNA to 150 ng and the digestion time to 30 min, whereas for LQ samples, we used 50 ng of DNA as input but we decreased the digestion time to 1 min. In all cases, we increased the cycles of the pre-hyb PCR to 10 but decreased the cycles of the post-hyb PCR to 8. In addition, we confirmed that using half of the volume of reagents can be beneficial. Finally, in order to obtain better results, we designed a decision flow-chart to achieve a seeding concentration of 12–14 pM for MiSeq Reagent Kit v2.

Conclusions

Our experiments allowed us to unveil the behaviour of low-quality FFPE DNA samples during the construction of SureSelect^QXT libraries. Sequencing results showed that, using our modified SureSelect^QXT protocol, the final percentage of usable reads for low-quality samples was increased more than three times allowing to reach median depth/million reads values of 76.35. This value is equivalent to ~ 0.9 and ~ 0.7 of the values obtained for good-quality FFPE and high-quality DNA respectively.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12575-018-0084-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Validity of automated refraction after segmented refractive multifocal intraocular lens implantation

AIM

To evaluate the clinical utility of automated refraction (AR) and keratometry (KR) compared with subjective or manifest refraction (MR) after cataract or refractive lens exchange surgery with implantation of Lentis Mplus X (Oculentis GmbH) refractive multifocal intraocular lens (IOL).

METHODS

Eighty-six eyes implanted with the Lentis Mplus X multifocal IOL were included. MR was performed in all patients followed by three consecutive AR measurements using the Topcon KR-8000 autorefractor. Assessment of repeatability of consecutive AR before and after dilation with phenylephrine 10%, and comparison of the AR and KR with MR using vector analysis were performed at 3mo follow-up.

RESULTS

Analysis showed excellent repeatability of the AR measurements. Linear regression of AR versus MR showed good correlation for sphere and spherical equivalent, whereas the correlation for astigmatism was low. The mean difference AR-MR was -1.28±0.29 diopters (D) for sphere. Astigmatism showed better correlation between KR and MR.

CONCLUSION

We suggest AR sphere plus 1.25 D and the KR cylinder as the starting point for MR in eyes with a Lentis Mplus X multifocal IOL. If AR measurements are equal to MR, decentration of the IOL should be suspected.

Safety and Efficacy of the Transition from Extracapsular Cataract Extraction to Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery in Prevention of Blindness Campaigns

PURPOSE

To compare the safety and the visual outcomes of two experienced cataract surgeons who converted from extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) to manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS) during a campaign for the prevention of blindness.

METHODS

Two surgeons used the ECCE technique (ECCE group) during a campaign in Burkina Faso on 93 consecutive cataract patients with a corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) <20/80 in the best eye. Both surgeons used MSICS for the first time on 98 consecutive cases in another campaign in Kenya after theoretical instructional courses.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in CDVA at 3 months postoperatively. There were 69% of eyes with uncorrected distance visual acuity ≥20/60 in the MSICS group and 49% eyes in the ECCE group. Spherical equivalents ranged between -1D and +1D in 55% of the MSICS group versus 43% in the ECCE group. There were significant differences in the changes in the vertical component of astigmatism (J45) but not the horizontal (J0) component. There were no significant differences in the intraoperative complications. The most common postoperative complication was corneal edema on the first day in 40.86% and 19.38% of the ECCE and MSICS groups, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Transitioning from ECCE to MSICS for experienced cataract surgeons in surgical campaigns is safe. The rate of complications is similar for both techniques. Slightly better visual and refractive outcomes can be achieved due to the decreased induction of corneal astigmatism.

Prevalence and location of the secondary mesiobuccal canal in 1,100 maxillary molars using cone beam computed tomography

BACKGROUND

Several articles have used cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to study the morphology of the maxillary molars and to ascertain its ability to visualize the second mesiobuccal canal (MB2); however, its geometric location has not been examined in depth. The aim of this study was to describe in vivo the prevalence and location of the MB2 in the mesiobuccal root of the first maxillary molar (1MM) and the second maxillary molar (2MM) through CBCT imaging.

METHODS

Five hundred fifty CBCT images of the 1MM and 550 of the 2MM were analyzed. To detect the MB2 canal, the observation and measurements were done 1 mm apically to the pulpal floor to standardize the methodology. The geometric location of the central point of the MB2 canal (PMB2) was measured in relation to the central point of the mesiobuccal canal (PMB1) and in relation to the line projected between the PMB1 and the central point of the palatal canals (PP). The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, with a value of P < 0.05 being statistically significant.

RESULTS

In the 1MM, the prevalence of the MB2 canal was 69.82% and was more frequent in women (p = 0.005). The distance between PMB1 and PP was 7.64 ± 1.04 mm. The average distance between PMB1 and PMB2 was 2.68 ± 0.49 mm, and for PMB2 and the line projected between the PMB1 and PP canals was 1.25 ± 0.34 mm. In the 2MM, the MB2 canal was identified in 46.91% and was more frequent in men (p = 0.000). The distance between PMB1 and PP was 7.02 ± 1.30. The average distance between PMB1 and PMB2 was 2.41 ± 0.64 mm, and for the PMB2 and the line projected between the PMB1 and PP canals was 0.98 ± 0.33 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

The MB2 canal was found in a high percentage of the sample. These results indicate that CBCT is an effective, high-precision diagnostic tool not only for detecting but also locating in vivo the MB2 canal in the mesiobuccal root of upper molars.

Molecular genetic heterogeneity in undifferentiated endometrial carcinomas

Undifferentiated and dedifferentiated endometrial carcinomas are rare and highly aggressive subtypes of uterine cancer, not well characterized at a molecular level. To investigate whether dedifferentiated carcinomas carry molecular genetic alterations similar to those of pure undifferentiated carcinomas, and to gain insight into the pathogenesis of these tumors, we selected a cohort of 18 undifferentiated endometrial carcinomas, 8 of them with a well-differentiated endometrioid carcinoma component (dedifferentiated endometrioid carcinomas), and studied them by immunohistochemistry and massive parallel and Sanger sequencing. Whole-exome sequencing of the endometrioid and undifferentiated components, as well as normal myometrium, was also carried out in one case. According to The Cancer Genome Atlas classification, we distributed 95% of the undifferentiated carcinomas in this series as follows: (a) hypermutated tumors with loss of any mismatch repair protein expression and microsatellite instability (eight cases, 45%); (b) ultramutated carcinomas carrying mutations in the exonuclease domain of POLE (two cases, 11%); (c) high copy number alterations (copy-number high) tumors group exhibiting only TP53 mutations and high number of alterations detected by FISH (two cases, 11%); and (d) low copy number alterations (copy-number low) tumors with molecular alterations typical of endometrioid endometrial carcinomas (five cases, 28%). Two of the latter cases, however, also had TP53 mutations and higher number of alterations detected by FISH and could have progressed to a copy-number high phenotype. Most dedifferentiated carcinomas belonged to the hypermutated group, whereas pure undifferentiated carcinomas shared molecular genetic alterations with copy-number low or copy-number high tumors. These results indicate that undifferentiated and dedifferentiated endometrial carcinomas are molecularly heterogeneous tumors, which may have prognostic value.

Implantable Collamer Lens for Myopia: Assessment 12 Years After Implantation

PURPOSE

To evaluate the long-term refractive and visual stability and the risks related to the implantation of Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL; STAAR Surgical, Monrovia, CA) phakic intraocular lens (PIOL) for myopia.

METHODS

This retrospective, consecutive, cumulative clinical study was performed in a group of 144 eyes implanted with ICL PIOL for myopia. Only the cases with clinical data available 12 years after the implantation were included in the series. Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), uncorrected distance visual acuity, spherical equivalent, refractive astigmatism, endothelial cell density, ICL vaulting, and postoperative complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

Mean spherical equivalent refraction was -16.90±4.26 diopters (D) preoperatively and -1.77±1.93 D 12 years postoperatively. Mean CDVA at the first and last visit were 0.31±0.19 logMAR and 0.22±0.22 logMAR, respectively (Mann-Whitney U test, P<.001). Twelve years postoperatively, 8.9% of eyes had lost more than two lines of CDVA. The incidence of clinically relevant cataracts (13.88%) was significantly linked to the use of the V3 model ICL (chi-square test, P=.007). During the follow-up period, a significant reduction in PIOL vaulting was observed (Kruskal-Wallis test, P<.05), and the mean endothelial cell density decreased by 19.75%.

CONCLUSIONS

The ICL PIOL provided good refractive outcomes and stability in the long term. The incidence of cataracts is low when the latest models of this PIOL are used.

Simultaneous topography-guided partial photorefractive keratectomy and corneal collagen crosslinking for keratoconus

PURPOSE

To report the visual, refractive, and clinical outcomes of simultaneous topography-guided partial photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) in eyes with keratoconus.

SETTING

Private practice surgery center, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

Refraction, uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuities, flat and steep keratometry (K) readings, and complications were evaluated 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 31 eyes of 31 patients aged 21 to 42 years. All study parameters showed a statistically significant improvement at 3, 6, and 12 months over baseline values. At 12 months, the mean UDVA improved to 0.23 logMAR±0.33 (SD) from 0.79±0.36 logMAR (P<.001) and the CDVA improved to 0.06±0.07 logMAR from 0.28±0.20 logMAR (P<.001). The mean defocus decreased from 3.45±1.60 diopters (D) to 1.88±1.58 D (P<.001). The flat K and steep K readings showed significant flattening. The mean refractive astigmatism decreased from -2.77±1.47 D to -0.98±0.76 D (P<.001). The improvement in study parameters plateaued after 3 months.

CONCLUSION

Simultaneous topography-guided partial PRK and CXL was effective, safe, and stable in keratoconus patients.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

TMJ in facial class III deformity. Condylar morphology relations

Class III dentofacial deformities (DF-III) are classified as a severe functional and esthetic anomaly. This work aims to describe the condylar morphology of subjects with DF-III and indication of correction through orthognatic surgery. A descriptive study was designed in the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of the Universidad de La Frontera, Chile, where 14 patients were examined with conventional cephalometric studies to determine the surgical indication; then, cone beam CT images were recorded for the morphometric analyses on the coronal and axial slices, considering linear measurements in the middle, basal and anteroposterior areas. The data were analyzed with the student's t-test, considering p < 0.05 statistically significant. The results revealed condylar size differences of less than 1 mm between the left and right condyles, considering average widths of 17.03 mm in the right condyle and 17.86 mm in the left condyle. Vertically, the observed averages were 17.17 mm in the right condyle and 17.04 mm in the left condyle; no statistical differences were observed. It can be concluded that there are no differences in the measurements when the two condyles are compared in this type of subject.

TMJ in facial class III deformity. Condyle/fossa relations

The aim of this study was to ascertain the joint space present in the TMJ of subjects diagnosed with Class III dentofacial deformity with an indication for orthognathic surgery. Fourteen subjects were recruited from the Division of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the Universidad de La Frontera, Chile. All subjects were admitted to the study after signing an informed consent and undergoing cephalometric analyses to define the severity of the deformity. Then, the joint space was analyzed, studying a cone beam CT image of the TMJ, which was evaluated in the coronal and sagittal views, defining the most anterior, median and posterior joint space (sagittal view), as well as the lateral, median and medial joint space (coronal view). The data were recorded in millimeters by an observer and data were analyzed after measuring the same parameter at three different times. A student's t-test was used for the analyses. Differences observed in both joints were not greater than 0.2 mm with spaces between 2 mm and 1.5 mm, thereby establishing the homogeneity of the sample, which presented no significant differences between the two joint spaces (right and left). It can be concluded that the joint space is symmetrical in both condyles and that no important changes are present compared to the results indicated in the international literature.

Ancillary personnel in Spanish and Latin-American hospitals faced with living related kidney donation

INTRODUCTION

Ancillary hospital personnel represent an important body of opinion because as they work in a hospital their opinion has more credibility for the general public as a result of their activity in hospitals. However, in most cases they do not have any health care training which means that their attitude could be based on a lack of knowledge or unfounded fears.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the attitude toward living kidney donation (LKD) among ancillary personnel in Spanish and Latin-American hospitals and to analyze the variables that might influence such attitude.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

from «International Collaborative Donor Project» a random sample was taken among ancillary personnel in Spain, Mexico and Cuba hospitals. Attitude towards LKD was evaluated using a validated, anonymously filled and self-administered survey.

RESULTS

951 professionals were surveyed (Spain: 277, Mexico: 632, Cuba: 42). 89% (n=850) are in favor of related kidney donation, lowering to 31% (n=289) in non-related donation. Of the rest, 8% (n=78) are not in favor and the 3% (n=23) are unsure. By country, Cubans (98%) and Mexicans (91%) are more in favour than Spanish (84%) (P=.001). The following variables are related to favourable attitude towards LKD: female sex (P=.017), university degree (P=.010), work in health services (P=.035), labour stability (P=.016), personal experience in donation and transplantation (P=.001), positive attitude toward cadaveric donation (P<.001), belief that he or she might need a transplant in the future (P<.001), positive attitude towards living liver donation (P<.001), a willingness to receive a donated living liver if needed (P<.001), having discussed the subject of organ donation and transplantation within the family (P<.001), partner's positive attitude towards the subject (P<.001), participation in voluntary type pro-social activities (P=.002) and not being concerned about possible mutilation after donation (P<.001) CONCLUSIONS: The attitude toward living related kidney donation is favourable among ancillary personnel in Spanish and Latin-Americans hospitals. Because living donation is a better source of organs than cadaveric ones, this favourable predisposition can be used as promoting agent of living donation in order to develop it in Spanish-speaking countries.

Add-on sulcus-based versus primary in-the-bag multifocal intraocular lens: intraindividual study

PURPOSE

To compare the clinical outcomes of add-on sulcus-based multifocal and standard in-the-bag multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.

METHODS

Twenty-one patients with unilateral monofocal pseudophakia underwent add-on sulcus-based Acri. LISA 536D multifocal IOL (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Jena, Germany) implantation (add-on multifocal IOL group) and contralateral phacoemulsification with in-the-bag Acri.LISA 376D multifocal IOL (Carl Zeiss Meditec) implantation (primary multifocal IOL group). Uncorrected distance visual acuity, uncorrected near visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity, distance-corrected near visual acuity, photopic (90 cd/m(2)) distance, near contrast sensitivity, mesopic (5 cd/m(2)) distance contrast sensitivity with and without glare, wavefront aberrations, and complications were measured 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Primary in-the-bag multifocal IOLs provided slightly but significantly better uncorrected distance visual acuity (0.08 ± 0.10 vs 0.17 ± 0.15 logMAR, P = .028), uncorrected near visual acuity (0.09 ± 0.17 vs 0.18 ± 0.11 logMAR, P = .005), and corrected distance visual acuity (0.01 ± 0.04 vs 0.04 ± 0.05 logMAR, P = .038). There were no significant differences in distance-corrected near visual acuity, photopic or mesopic contrast sensitivity under different conditions, and wavefront aberrations. Complications included pigment dispersion in one eye (4.8%) and pupillary capture in 2 eyes (9.5%) of the add-on multifocal IOL group.

CONCLUSIONS

The secondary add-on sulcus-based multifocal IOL provided useful pseudoaccommodation with vision quality similar to the primary in-the-bag multifocal IOL. The technique should be considered in patients diagnosed as having unilateral or bilateral monofocal pseudophakia seeking near spectacle independence.

Ibuprofen inhibits the synaptic failure induced by the amyloid-β peptide in hippocampal neurons

Epidemiological studies have reported a decrease in the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease in individuals who chronically use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Clinical trials, on the other hand, have been less positive. Nevertheless, it has been proposed that NSAIDs exert part of their effects by reducing long-term cerebral neuroinflammation, although this mechanism has not been proven. In this study, we report that ibuprofen, one of the more widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, was able to alter the ultrastructure of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) and significantly decrease its association to neuronal membranes, and consequently, its synaptotoxic effect in rat primary hippocampal and cortical cultures at 24 h incubation. In agreement with these results, we found that the decrease in the frequency of calcium transients with Aβ was partly recovered by addition of ibuprofen (8.0 × 10-2 Hz in control; 3.4 × 10-2 Hz in 5 μM Aβ, and 5.9 × 10-2 Hz in the presence of Aβ and 200 μM ibuprofen). Additionally, this effect correlated well with the increment and recovery of miniature spontaneous currents (47 ± 5% of control in 1 μM Aβ alone and 104 ± 14% in the presence of Aβ and ibuprofen). Our results suggest that ibuprofen could be exerting its neuroprotective effect by directly interacting with Aβ and altering its toxic aggregated forms. We postulate that other ibuprofen analogs with better pharmacological properties might have a higher efficacy in AD.

Effect of platelet-rich plasma in nerve regeneration after LASIK

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of topical eye application of platelet-rich plasma (E-PRP) on the recovery of corneal sensitivity after LASIK and the anatomical recovery of the sub-basal corneal plexus as studied by confocal microscopy.

METHODS

This was a randomized, consecutive, controlled, prospective and masked study on 108 myopic eyes receiving LASIK. The main variables of the study were the increase in corneal sensitivity (Cochet-Bonet aesthesiometer; Luneau, Paris, France) and the aspect of the sub-basal nerve plexus (confocal microscope). Additionally, a biomicroscopic study of the epithelial status of the cornea and a subjective questionnaire were completed. Each eye of each patient was assigned to one of two groups: 54 eyes treated with balanced saline solution and 54 fellow eyes receiving PRP drops for 3 months.

RESULTS

No significant differences were detected when the corneal sensitivity thresholds were compared at any postoperative visit in both groups (P > .05 for all comparisons). Almost identical sub-basal fiber densities were estimated for both groups before LASIK (t test, P = .66). However, the type and severity of staining detected during the slit-lamp examinations at the first and third month postoperatively were significantly less evident in the E-PRP treatment group (Wilcoxon test, P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

PRP drops have beneficial effects for promoting epithelial status after LASIK but have no positive effect on recovery of corneal sensitivity, probably due to the limited bioavailability of growth factors in corneal stroma when the substance is topically administered.

Multivariate analysis to determine the factors affecting the attitudes toward organ donation of healthcare assistants in Spanish and Mexican healthcare centers

BACKGROUND

Healthcare assistants are an important group of workers who can influence public opinion. Their attitudes toward organ donation may influence public awareness of healthcare matters; negative attitudes toward donation and transplantation could have a negative impact on public attitudes. Our objective was analyze the attitudes of healthcare assistants, in Spanish and Mexican healthcare centers toward organ donation and determine factors affecting them using a multivariate analysis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

As part of the "International Collaborative Donor Project," 32 primary care centers and 4 hospitals were selected in Spain and 5 hospitals in Mexico. A randomized sample of healthcare assistants was stratified according to healthcare services. Attitudes were evaluated using a validated questionnaire of the psychosocial aspects of donation, which was self-completed anonymously by the respondent. Statistical analysis used the chi-square test, Student t test, and logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Of 532 respondents, 66% in favored donation and 34% were against it or undecided. Upon multivariate analysis, the following variables had the most weight: 1) country of origin (Mexicans were more in favor than Spanish; odds ratio [OR]) = 1.964; P = .014); 2) a partner with a favorable attitude (OR = 2.597; P = .013); 3) not being concerned about possible bodily mutilation after donation (OR = 2.631; P = .006); 4) preference for options apart from burial for handling the body after death (OR = 4.694; P < .001) and 5) accepting an autopsy if one was needed (OR = 3.584; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The attitudes of healthcare assistants toward organ donation varied considerably according to the respondent's country of origin. The psycho-social profile of a person with a positive attitude to donation was similar to that described within the general public.

Source apportionment in oil spill remediation

A pipe rupture during unloading led to a spillage of 350-700 tonnes of Caño Limon, a light sweet crude oil, into San Vicente Bay in 2007. Initial clean-up methods removed the majority of the oil from the sandy beaches although some oil remained on the rocky shores. It was necessary for the responsible party to clean the spilled oil even though at this location there were already crude oil hydrocarbons from previous industrial activity. A biosolvent based on vegetable oil derivatives was used to solubilise the remaining oil and a statistical approach to source apportionment was used to determine the efficacy of the cleaning. Sediment and contaminated rock samples were taken prior to cleaning and again at the same locations two days after application of the biosolvent. The oil was extracted using a modified USEPA Method 3550B. The alkanes were quantified together with oil biomarkers on a GC-MS. The contribution that Caño Limon made to the total oil hydrocarbons was calculated from a Partial Least Squares (PLS) analysis using Caño Limon crude oil as the source. By the time the biosolvent was applied, there had already been some attenuation of the oil with all alkanes <C(16) removed. After treatment, more of the mid-chain length compounds had been removed leading a skew towards the longer chain length compounds in the samples. The steranes provided a good indication of the source of the oil in this case and the contribution that Caño Limon made to the total oil ranged from 0% to 74%. The total hydrocarbon concentrations were lower after cleaning indicating an efficacy of 90% although the reduction in Caño Limon oil was smaller. This was sufficient to make further remediation unnecessary.

Genetic diversity of wild grapevine populations in Spain and their genetic relationships with cultivated grapevines

The wild grapevine, Vitis vinifera L. ssp. sylvestris (Gmelin) Hegi, considered as the ancestor of the cultivated grapevine, is native from Eurasia. In Spain, natural populations of V. vinifera ssp. sylvestris can still be found along river banks. In this work, we have performed a wide search of wild grapevine populations in Spain and characterized the amount and distribution of their genetic diversity using 25 nuclear SSR loci. We have also analysed the possible coexistence in the natural habitat of wild grapevines with naturalized grapevine cultivars and rootstocks. In this way, phenotypic and genetic analyses identified 19% of the collected samples as derived from cultivated genotypes, being either naturalized cultivars or hybrid genotypes derived from spontaneous crosses between wild and cultivated grapevines. The genetic diversity of wild grapevine populations was similar than that observed in the cultivated group. The molecular analysis showed that cultivated germplasm and wild germplasm are genetically divergent with low level of introgression. Using a model-based approach implemented in the software structure, we identified four genetic groups, with two of them fundamentally represented among cultivated genotypes and two among wild accessions. The analyses of genetic relationships between wild and cultivated grapevines could suggest a genetic contribution of wild accessions from Spain to current Western cultivars.