Coexistence of flavum ligament ossification with diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis in the cervical spine: Review of literature and technical note starting from a rare case.

BACKGROUND: Cervical flavum ligament ossification (C-OLF) is very rare source of myeloradiculopathy. Less than 100 cases have been reported in modern English literature up to 2020. Association between C-OLF and Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH) at cervical level has never been described. METHODS: In this article we performed a systematic review about epidemiology, physiopathology, clinical and surgical management of C-OLF. Moreover, we research its possible association with other cervical spine ligament ossification and in particular with anterior longitudinal ligament ossification. We report a case of 73 years-old woman experiencing mild cervical myeloradiculopathy caused by C6-C7 C-OLF compression and coexistence of DISH at cervico-thoracic level. A brief technical note about intraoperative management of C-OLF has also been described. RESULT: Our research found 81 previous reported case of C-OLF. The coexistence of Posterior longitudinal ligament ossification has been reported in 21.3% of C-OLF case. Conversely, we reported the first case describing the association between DISH and C-OLF. Posterior surgical decompression is the only useful treatment providing good long-term functional outcome. Instrumentation should be tailored according to pre-operative findings. CONCLUSIONS: C-OLF is a rare source of myeloradiculopathy and it may coexists with DISH probably due to alteration in the cervical mechanical stress and tendency of bone formation in patients harboring coexistent ligament ossifications. According to our result, skip en-bloc microsurgical laminectomy is safe and less invasive method to avoid complication and to provide optimal cervical spinal cord and nerve decompression avoiding CSF-leak.

Sperm cryopreservation during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

PURPOSE: Sperm cryopreservation is fundamental in the management of patients undergoing gonadotoxic treatments. Concerns have risen in relation to SARS-CoV-2 and its potential for testicular involvement, since SARS-CoV-2-positive cryopreserved samples may have unknown effects on fertilization and embryo safety. This study therefore aimed to analyze the safety of sperm cryopreservation for cancer patients after the onset of the pandemic in Italy, through assessment of the risk of SARS-CoV-2 exposure and viral RNA testing of semen samples. METHODS: We recruited 10 cancer patients (mean age 30.5 ± 9.6 years) referred to our Sperm Bank during the Italian lockdown (from March 11th to May 4th 2020) who had not undergone a nasopharyngeal swab for SARS-CoV-2 testing. Patients were administered a questionnaire on their exposure to COVID-19, and semen samples were taken. Before cryopreservation, SARS-CoV-2 RNA was extracted from a 150 µl aliquot of seminal fluid in toto using QIAamp viral RNA kit (Qiagen) and amplified by a real time RT PCR system (RealStar SARS-CoV2 RT PCR, Altona Diagnostics) targeting the E and S genes. RESULTS: The questionnaire and medical interview revealed that all patients were asymptomatic and had had no previous contact with COVID-19 infected patients. All semen samples were negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. CONCLUSION: This preliminary assessment suggests that a thorough evaluation (especially in the setting of a multidisciplinary team) and molecular confirmation of the absence of SARS-CoV-2 in seminal fluid from asymptomatic cancer patients may assist in ensuring the safety of sperm cryopreservation.

Natural history of SARS-CoV-2 infection in healthcare workers in Northern Italy.

At present, the time-frame used for the quarantine of individuals with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the entire duration of symptoms plus 14 days after symptom recovery; however, no data have been reported specifically for healthcare workers (HCWs). In the study population of 142 HCWs with COVID-19, the mean time for viral clearance was 31.8 days. Asymptomatic subjects cleared the virus more quickly than symptomatic subjects (22 vs 34.2 days; P<0.0001). The presence of fever at the time of diagnosis was associated with a longer time to viral clearance (relative risk 11.45, 95% confidence interval 8.66-14.25; P<0.0001). These findings may have a significant impact on healthcare strategies for the future management of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fatal respiratory infection due to ST308 VIM-1-producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a lung transplant recipient: case report and review of the literature.

BACKGROUND: Data regarding the prevalence of metallo-ß-lactamases (MBLs) among Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates in cystic fibrosis patients are scarce. Furthermore, there is limited knowledge on the effect of MBL production on patient outcomes. Here we describe a fatal respiratory infection due to P. aeruginosa producing VIM-type MBLs in a lung transplant recipient and the results of the subsequent epidemiological investigation. CASE PRESENTATION: P. aeruginosa isolates collected in the index patient and among patients temporally or spatially linked with the index patient were analyzed in terms of antibiotic susceptibility profile and MBL production. Whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic reconstruction were also performed for all P. aeruginosa isolates producing VIM-type MBLs. A VIM-producing P. aeruginosa strain was identified in a lung biopsy of a lung transplant recipient with cystic fibrosis. The strain was VIM-1-producer and belonged to the ST308. Despite aggressive treatment, the transplant patient succumbed to the pulmonary infection due to the ST308 strain. A VIM-producing P. aeruginosa strain was also collected from the respiratory samples of a different cystic fibrosis patient attending the same cystic fibrosis center. This isolate harbored the blaVIM-2 gene and belonged to the clone ST175. This patient did not experience an adverse outcome. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first description of a fatal infection due to P. aeruginosa producing VIM-type MBLs in a lung transplant recipient. The circulation of P. aeruginosa isolates harboring MBLs pose a substantial risk to the cystic fibrosis population due to the limited therapeutic options available and their spreading potential.

Sequentially addressable dielectrophoretic array for high-throughput sorting of large-volume biological compartments.

Droplet microfluidics has become a powerful tool in precision medicine, green biotechnology, and cell therapy for single-cell analysis and selection by virtue of its ability to effectively confine cells. However, there remains a fundamental trade-off between droplet volume and sorting throughput, limiting the advantages of droplet microfluidics to small droplets (<10 pl) that are incompatible with long-term maintenance and growth of most cells. We present a sequentially addressable dielectrophoretic array (SADA) sorter to overcome this problem. The SADA sorter uses an on-chip array of electrodes activated and deactivated in a sequence synchronized to the speed and position of a passing target droplet to deliver an accumulated dielectrophoretic force and gently pull it in the direction of sorting in a high-speed flow. We use it to demonstrate large-droplet sorting with ~20-fold higher throughputs than conventional techniques and apply it to long-term single-cell analysis of Saccharomyces cerevisiae based on their growth rate.

HIV MDR is still a relevant issue despite its dramatic drop over the years.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the prevalence and therapeutic relevance of drug resistance among isolates from ART-experienced HIV-1-infected patients over the past two decades in Italy. METHODS: Dynamics of resistance to one, two and three or more antiretroviral classes were evaluated from 1999-2018. Virological success (VS) after the latest therapy switch was evaluated according to cumulative class resistance and cumulative genotypic susceptibility score (Stanford HIV_DB algorithm). RESULTS: Among 13 663 isolates (from 6739 patients), resistance to at least one drug class decreased sharply from 1999 to 2010 (≤2001, 84.6%; 2010, 43.6%; P < 0.001), then remained relatively constant at ∼40% during 2010-18, with the proportion of resistance to three or more classes also stable (∼5%). After 2008, integrase inhibitor resistance slightly increased from 5.6% to 9.7% in 2018 and contributed to resistance, particularly in isolates with resistance to three or more classes (one class, 8.4%; two classes, 15.3%; three or more classes, 34.7%, P < 0.001). Among 1827 failing patients with an available follow-up, by 1 year after genotype-guided therapy start the probability of VS was 87.6%. Patients with cumulative resistance to three or more classes and receiving a poorly active regimen showed the lowest probability (62.6%) of VS (P < 0.001) compared with all other patients (≥81.8%). By Cox regression analysis, cumulative MDR and receiving poorly active antiretroviral regimens were associated with a lower hazard of VS compared with those without resistance. CONCLUSIONS: A dramatic drop of HIV-1 drug resistance at failure has been achieved over the last two decades in Italy; resistance to three or more classes is low but present among currently failing patients. Its management still requires a rational and careful diagnostic and therapeutic approach.

Flow-Diversion Treatment for Unruptured Nonsaccular Intracranial Aneurysms of the Posterior and Distal Anterior Circulation: A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Treatment management and outcomes of unruptured nonsaccular aneurysms are different compared with their saccular counterparts. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the outcomes after flow diversion among nonsaccular unruptured lesions. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 data bases (2005-2019) was performed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. STUDY SELECTION: We included studies reporting flow diversion for nonsaccular unruptured aneurysms of the posterior and distal anterior circulations. Anterior circulation lesions were included if located distal to the petrocavernous and supraclinoid ICA (MCA, A1, anterior communicating artery, A2). Giant dolichoectatic holobasilar lesions were excluded because of their poor treatment outcomes. DATA ANALYSIS: Aneurysm occlusion and complication rates were calculated (random effects meta-analysis). DATA SYNTHESIS: We included 15 studies (213 aneurysms). The long-term adequate occlusion rate was 85.3% (137/168; 95% CI, 78.2%-92.4%; I2 = 42.3%). Treatment-related complications were 17.4% (41/213; 95% CI, 12.45%-22.4%; I2 = 0%). Overall, 15% (37/213; 95% CI, 10%-20%; I2 = 0%) were ischemic events. Procedure-related morbidity was 8% (20/213; 95% CI, 5%-12%; I2 = 0%). Fusiform or dissecting types had comparable adequate occlusion (116/146 = 83%; 95% CI, 74%-92%; I2 = 48% versus 33/36 = 89%; 95% CI, 80%-98%; I2 = 0%; P = .31) and complication rates (35/162 = 17%; 95% CI, 10%-25%; I2 = 24% versus 11/51 = 19%; 95% CI, 10%-31%; I2 = 0%; P = .72). Aneurysm size (>10 versus ≤10 mm) was independently associated with a higher rate of complications (OR = 6.6; 95% CI, 1.3-15; P = .02). The rate of ischemic events after discontinuation of the antiplatelet therapy was 5% (5/93; 95% CI, 2%-9%; I2 = 0%). LIMITATIONS: Small and retrospective studies were available for this meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS: Unruptured nonsaccular aneurysms located in the posterior and distal anterior circulations can be effectively treated with flow diversion. Nevertheless, treatment-related complications are not negligible, with about 15% ischemic events and 8% morbidity. Larger size (>10 mm) significantly increases the risk of procedure-related adverse events.

Antiplatelet Therapy in Patients with Aneurysmal SAH: Impact on Delayed Cerebral Ischemia and Clinical Outcome. A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Delayed cerebral ischemia strongly impacts clinical outcome after aneurysmal SAH. The effect of antiplatelet therapy on delayed cerebral ischemia has been described with heterogeneous results. Our aim was to analyze the efficacy of antiplatelet therapy on delayed cerebral ischemia and clinical outcome in patients with SAH. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 databases was performed for studies published from 1990 to 2019. STUDY SELECTION: According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies comparing the rates of delayed cerebral ischemia and clinical outcomes among patients with SAH with and without antiplatelet therapy. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the following: delayed cerebral ischemia, mortality, and good outcome rates. DATA SYNTHESIS: Including 7 studies, 1060 and 1762 patients with SAH were endovascularly or surgically treated with (cases) and without (controls) antiplatelet therapy, respectively. Overall, antiplatelet therapy did not significantly decrease delayed cerebral ischemia rates compared with the control group (219/1060 versus 485/1762, OR = 0.781; 95% CI, 0.46-1.31; P = .33). Among patients treated endovascularly, there was a trend toward lower delayed cerebral ischemia rates after antiplatelet therapy (157/778 versus 413/1410, OR = 0.552; 95% CI, 0.273-1.115; P = .06). Long-term (>2 weeks) antiplatelet therapy tended to be associated with a lower incidence of delayed cerebral ischemia (63/438 versus 96/353, OR = 0.379; 95% CI, 0.12-1.2; P = .06). The good-outcome rate was significantly higher (803/1144 versus 1175/1775, OR = 1.368; 95% CI, 1.117-1.676; P = .002) and the mortality rate was significantly lower (79/672 versus 97/571, OR = 0.656; 95% CI, 0.47-0.91; P = .01) among the antiplatelet therapy group. LIMITATIONS: Heterogeneity was high for most outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the incidence of delayed cerebral ischemia seems not to be significantly reduced among the antiplatelet therapy group. However, delayed cerebral ischemia tended to be lower among subjects with both long-term antiplatelet therapy and endovascular treatment and antiplatelet administration. Poor outcome and mortality rates were significantly reduced among the antiplatelet therapy group.

Treatment of Unruptured Distal Anterior Circulation Aneurysms with Flow-Diverter Stents: A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of flow diversion among distal anterior circulation aneurysms must be proved. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the outcomes after flow diversion among MCA, anterior communicating artery, and distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 databases was performed for studies published from 2005 to 2018. STUDY SELECTION: According to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies reporting flow diversion of distal anterior circulation aneurysms. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool aneurysm occlusion and complication rates. From the individual patient data, univariate and multivariate analyses were used to test predictors of occlusion and complications. DATA SYNTHESIS: We included 27 studies (484 aneurysms). The long-term adequate occlusion rate (O'Kelly-Marotta scale, C-D) was 82.7% (295/364; 95% CI, 77.4%-87.9%; I2 = 52%). Treatment-related complications were 12.5% (63/410; 95% CI, 9%-16%%; I2 = 18.8%), with 5.4% (29/418; 95% CI, 3.2%-7.5%; I2 = 0%) morbidity. MCA location was an independent factor associated with lower occlusion (OR = 0.5, P = .03) and higher complication rates (OR = 1.8, P = .02), compared with anterior communicating artery and distal anterior cerebral artery aneurysms. The Pipeline Embolization Device (versus other stents) gave better occlusion rates (OR = 2.6, P = .002), whereas large/giant aneurysms were associated with higher odds of complications (OR = 2.2, P = .03). The rates of occlusion and narrowing of arteries covered by flow-diverter stents were 6.3% (29/283; 95% CI, 3.5%-9.1%; I2 = 4.2%) and 23.8% (69/283; 95% CI, 15.7%-32%; I2 = 80%), respectively. Symptoms related to occlusion and narrowing of the jailed arteries were 3.5% (6/269; 95% CI, 1.1%-5%; I2 = 0%) and 3% (6/245; 95% CI, 1%-4%; I2 = 0%), respectively. LIMITATIONS: We reviewed small and retrospective series. CONCLUSIONS: Flow diversion among distal anterior circulation aneurysms is effective, leading to adequate aneurysm occlusion in 83% of cases. However, this strategy has some limitations among MCA and larger lesions, especially related to the higher rate of complications. Compared with the other devices, the Pipeline Embolization Device seems to be associated with a higher occlusion rate.

Comparison of Prasugrel and Clopidogrel Used as Antiplatelet Medication for Endovascular Treatment of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms: A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Clopidogrel is routinely used to decrease ischemic complications during neurointerventional procedures. However, the efficacy may be limited by antiplatelet resistance. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the efficacy of prasugrel compared with clopidogrel in the cerebrovascular field. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 2 large databases was performed for studies published from 2000 to 2018. STUDY SELECTION: According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies reporting treatment-related outcomes of patients undergoing neurointerventional procedures under prasugrel, and studies comparing prasugrel and clopidogrel. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the overall rate of complications, ischemic and hemorrhagic events, and influence of the dose of prasugrel. DATA SYNTHESIS: In the 7 included studies, 682 and 672 unruptured intracranial aneurysms were treated under prasugrel (cases) and clopidogrel (controls), respectively. Low-dose (20 mg/5 mg; loading and maintenance doses) prasugrel compared with the standard dose of clopidogrel (300 mg/75 mg) showed a significant reduction in the complication rate (OR = 0.36; 95% CI, 0.17-74, P = .006; I2 = 0%). Overall, the ischemic complication rate was significantly higher in the clopidogrel group (40/672 = 6%; 95% CI, 3%-13%; I2 = 83% versus 16/682 = 2%; 95% CI, 1%-5%; I2 = 73%; P = .03). Low and high loading doses of prasugrel were associated with 0.6% (5/535; 95% CI, 0.1%-1.6%; I2 = 0%) and 9.3% (13/147; 95% CI, 0.2%-18%; I2 = 60%) intraperiprocedural hemorrhages, respectively (P = .001), whereas low and high maintenance doses of prasugrel were associated with 0% (0/433) and 0.9% (2/249; 95% CI, 0.3%-2%; I2 = 0%) delayed hemorrhagic events, respectively (P = .001). LIMITATIONS: Retrospective series and heterogeneous endovascular treatments were limitations. CONCLUSIONS: In our study, low-dose prasugrel compared with clopidogrel premedication was associated with an effective reduction of the ischemic events with an acceptable rate of hemorrhagic complications.

Flow-Diversion Treatment of Unruptured Saccular Anterior Communicating Artery Aneurysms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Flow diversion for anterior communicating artery aneurysms required further investigation. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze outcomes after treatment of anterior communicating artery aneurysms with flow-diverter stents. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 data bases was performed for studies published from 2008 to 2018. STUDY SELECTION: According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies reporting anterior communicating artery aneurysms treated with flow diversion. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the following: aneurysm occlusion rate, complications, and factors influencing the studied outcomes. DATA SYNTHESIS: We included 14 studies and 148 unruptured saccular anterior communicating artery aneurysms treated with flow diversion. The long-term complete/near-complete (O'Kelly-Marotta C-D) occlusion rate was 87.4% (91/105; 95% CI, 81.3%-93.6%; I2 = 0%) (mean radiologic follow-up of 11 months). The treatment-related complication rate was 8.6% (14/126; 95% CI, 4%-13.1%; I2 = 0%), with morbidity and mortality rates of 3.5% (5/126; 95% CI, 2%-7%; I2 = 0%) and 2.5% (2/148; 95% CI, 0.3%-5%; I2 = 0%), respectively. Most complications were periprocedural (12/126 = 7%; 95% CI, 3%-11%; I2 = 0%). Thromboembolic events were slightly higher compared with hemorrhagic complications (10/126 = 6%; 95% CI, 2%-10%; I2 = 0% and 4/126 = 3%; 95% CI, 1%-6%; I2 = 0%). Branching arteries (A2 or the recurrent artery of Heubner) covered by the stent were occluded in 16% (7/34; 95% CI, 3.5%-28%; I2 = 25%) of cases. Pre- and posttreatment low-dose and high-dose of antiplatelet therapy was not associated with significantly different complication and occlusion rates. LIMITATIONS: We reviewed small and retrospective series. CONCLUSIONS: Flow diversion for unruptured saccular anterior communicating artery aneurysms appears to be an effective alternative treatment for lesions difficult to treat with coiling or microsurgical clipping. The treatment-related complication rate was relatively low. However, larger studies are needed to confirm these results.

Y-Stent-Assisted Coiling of Wide-Neck Bifurcation Intracranial Aneurysms: A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Y-stent-assisted coiling for wide-neck intracranial aneurysms required further investigation. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze outcomes after Y-stent placement in wide-neck aneurysms. DATA SOURCES: We performed a systematic search of 3 data bases for studies published from 2000 to 2018. STUDY SELECTION: According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies reporting Y-stent-assisted coiling of wide-neck aneurysms. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the following: aneurysm occlusion rate, complications, and factors influencing the studied outcomes. DATA SYNTHESIS: We included 27 studies and 750 aneurysms treated with Y-stent placement. The immediate complete/near-complete occlusion rate was 82.2% (352/468; 95% CI, 71.4%-93%; I2 = 92%), whereas the long-term complete/near-complete occlusion rate was 95.4% (564/598; 95% CI, 93.7%-97%; I2 = 0%) (mean radiologic follow-up of 14 months). The aneurysm recanalization rate was 3% (20/496; 95% CI, 1.5%-4.5%; I2 = 0%), and half of the recanalized aneurysms required retreatment. The treatment-related complication rate was 8.9% (63/614; 95% CI, 5.8%-12.1%; I2 = 44%). Morbidity and mortality after treatment were 2.4% (18/540; 95% CI, 1.2%-3.7%; I2 = 0%) and 1.1% (5/668; 95% CI, 0.3%-1.9%; I2 = 0%), respectively. Crossing Y-stent placement was associated with a slightly lower complication rate compared with the kissing configuration (56/572 = 8.4%; 95% CI, 5%-11%; I2 = 46% versus 4/30 = 12.7%; 95% CI, 3%-24%; I2 = 0%). Occlusion rates were quite comparable among Enterprise, Neuroform, and LVIS stents, whereas the Enterprise stent was associated with lower rates of complications (8/89 = 6.5%; 95% CI, 1.6%-11%; I2 = 0%) compared with the others (20/131 = 14%; 95% CI, 5%-26%; I2 = 69% and 9/64 = 11%; 95% CI, 3%-20%; I2 = 18%). LIMITATIONS: This was a small, retrospective series. CONCLUSIONS: Y-stent-assisted coiling yields high rates of long-term angiographic occlusion, with a relatively low rate of treatment-related complications. Y-stent placement with a crossing configuration appears to be associated with better outcomes. Although Y-configuration can be obtained using many types of stents with comparable occlusion rates, the Enterprise stent is associated with lower complication rates.

Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms with Self-Expandable Braided Stents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of treatment with self-expandable braided stents (LEO and LVIS) required further investigation. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the outcomes after treatment with braided stents. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 databases was performed for studies published from 2006 to 2017. STUDY SELECTION: According to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies reporting patients treated with LEO or LVIS stents. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the following: aneurysm occlusion rate, complications, and neurologic outcomes. DATA SYNTHESIS: Thirty-five studies evaluating 1426 patients treated with braided stents were included in this meta-analysis. Successful stent delivery and complete aneurysm occlusion were 97% (1041/1095; 95% CI, 95%-98%) (I2 = 44%) and 88.3% (1097/1256; 95% CI, 85%-91%) (I2 = 72%), respectively. Overall, treatment-related complications were 7.4% (107/1317; 95% CI, 5%-9%) (I2 = 44%). Ischemic/thromboembolic events (48/1324 = 2.4%; 95% CI, 1.5%-3.4%) (I2 = 27%) and in-stent thrombosis (35/1324 = 1.5%; 95% CI, 0.6%-1.7%) (I2 = 0%) were the most common complications. Treatment-related morbidity was 1.5% (30/1324; 95% CI, 0.9%-2%) and was comparable between the LEO and LVIS groups. Complication rates between the anterior (29/322 = 8.8%; 95% CI, 3.4%-12%) (I2 = 41%) versus posterior circulation (10/84 = 10.5%; 95% CI, 4%-16%) (I2 = 0%) and distal (30/303 = 8%; 95% CI, 4.5%-12%) (I2 = 48%) versus proximal aneurysms (14/153 = 9%; 95% CI, 3%-13%) (I2 = 46%) were comparable (P > .05). LIMITATIONS: Limitations were selection and publication biases. CONCLUSIONS: In this analysis, treatment with the LEO and LVIS stents was relatively safe and effective. The most common complications were periprocedural thromboembolisms and in-stent thrombosis. The rate of complications was comparable among anterior and posterior circulation aneurysms, as well as for proximal and distally located lesions.

Acutely Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysms Treated with Flow-Diverter Stents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The implantation of flow-diverter stents for the treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms required further investigation. PURPOSE: Our aim was to analyze the outcomes after flow diversion of ruptured intracranial aneurysms. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 databases was performed for studies published from 2006 to 2018. STUDY SELECTION: According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we included studies (from 2010 to 2018) reporting acutely ruptured intracranial aneurysms treated with flow diversion. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool the following: aneurysm occlusion rate, complications, rebleeding, and factors influencing the studied outcomes. DATA SYNTHESIS: We included 20 studies evaluating 223 patients with acutely ruptured intracranial aneurysms treated with flow-diverter stents. Immediate angiographic occlusion was obtained in 32% (29/86; 95% CI, 15.4%-48%; I2 = 79.6%) of aneurysms, whereas long-term complete/near-complete aneurysm occlusion was 88.9% (162/189; 95% CI, 84%-93.5%; I2 = 20.9%) (mean radiologic follow-up of 9.6 months). The treatment-related complication rate was 17.8% (42/223; 95% CI, 11%-24%; I2 = 52.6%). Complications were higher in the posterior circulation (16/72 = 27%; 95% CI, 14%-40%; I2 = 66% versus 18/149 = 11.7%; 95% CI, 7%-16%; I2 = 0%) (P = .004) and after treatment with multiple stents (14/52 = 26%; 95% CI, 14%-45%; I2 = 59%) compared with a single stent (20/141 = 10%; 95% CI, 5%-15%; I2 = 0%) (P = .004). Aneurysm rebleeding after treatment was 4% (5/223; 95% CI, 1.8%-7%; I2 = 0%) and was higher in the first 72 hours. LIMITATIONS: Small and retrospective series. CONCLUSIONS: Flow-diversion treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms yields a high rate of long-term angiographic occlusion with a relatively low rate of aneurysm rebleeding. However, treatment is associated with a complication rate of 18%. When coiling or microsurgical clipping are not feasible strategies, anterior circulation ruptured aneurysms can be effectively treated with a flow-diversion technique, minimizing the number of stents deployed. Given the 27% rate of complications, flow diversion for ruptured posterior circulation aneurysms should be considered only in selected cases not amenable to other treatments.

Comparison of coronal leakage of different root canal filling techniques: an ex vivo study.

The aim of this study was to compare the quality of the coronal seal, using an in vitro bacterial invasion test, of three different root canal filling systems. Twenty-seven freshly extracted mandibular premolars were selected and divided into three experimental groups (G1, G2 and G3 n=7) and two control groups (Ct+ and Ct- n=3). All teeth in the experimental groups were prepared using NiTi Mtwo rotating instruments and then the endodontic treatments were completed using the three-tested warm guttapercha root filling techniques: Microseal (G1), Thermafil (G2) and System B (G3). All root filling techniques were performed using the same endodontic sealer (Pulp Canal Sealer). Three teeth were instrumented and not filled, serving as positive controls (Ct+) and the last three teeth, with intact crowns and no endodontic treatment, served as negative controls (Ct-). All samples were mounted in a two-chamber apparatus and exposed to Enterococcus faecalis performing a bacterial infiltration test. All samples were observed for a maximum period of 60 days checking for turbidity of the BHI broth on a daily basis recording when contamination occurred. A quantitative evaluation of the bacterial CFU/ml was performed using the URO-QUICK™ system. On day 32 an overall value was recorded of contamination of 42.85% for group G1, 71.42% for G2 and 42.85% for G3; after 60 days, the final contamination result was 85.71% for group G1, and 100% for both G2 and G3 groups. Considering the number of contaminated samples at the end of the observation period, the three techniques showed no statistically significant differences. The study highlighted the bacterial permeability of gutta-percha/seal barrier, underlining the importance of an effective coronal restoration to ensure a durable seal after root canal treatment.

Endovascular Treatment of Very Large and Giant Intracranial Aneurysms: Comparison between Reconstructive and Deconstructive Techniques-A Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of reconstructive and deconstructive endovascular treatments of very large/giant intracranial aneurysms are not completely clear. PURPOSE: Our aim was to compare treatment-related outcomes between these 2 techniques. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search of 3 data bases was performed for studies published from 1990 to 2017. STUDY SELECTION: We selected series of reconstructive and deconstructive treatments with >10 patients. DATA ANALYSIS: Random-effects meta-analysis was used to analyze occlusion rates, complications, and neurologic outcomes. DATA SYNTHESIS: Thirty-nine studies evaluating 894 very large/giant aneurysms were included. Long-term occlusion of unruptured aneurysms was 71% and 93% after reconstructive and deconstructive treatments, respectively (P = .003). Among unruptured aneurysms, complications were lower after parent artery occlusion (16% versus 30%, P = .05), whereas among ruptured lesions, complications were lower after reconstructive techniques (34% versus 38%). Parent artery occlusion in the posterior circulation had higher complications compared with in the anterior circulation (36% versus 15%, P = .001). Overall, coiling yielded lower complication and occlusion rates compared with flow diverters and stent-assisted coiling. Complication rates of flow diversion were lower in the anterior circulation (17% versus 41%, P < .01). Among unruptured lesions, early aneurysm rupture (within 30 days) was slightly higher after reconstructive treatment (5% versus 0%, P = .08) and after flow diversion alone compared with flow diversion plus coiling (7% versus 0%). LIMITATIONS: Limitations were selection and publication biases. CONCLUSIONS: Parent artery occlusion allowed high rates of occlusion with an acceptable rate of complications for unruptured, anterior circulation aneurysms. Coiling should be preferred for posterior circulation and ruptured lesions, whereas flow diversion is relatively safe and effective for unruptured anterior circulation aneurysms.

Dynamics and phylogenetic relationships of HIV-1 transmitted drug resistance according to subtype in Italy over the years 2000-14.

Background: Transmitted drug-resistance (TDR) remains a critical aspect for the management of HIV-1-infected individuals. Thus, studying the dynamics of TDR is crucial to optimize HIV care. Methods: In total, 4323 HIV-1 protease/reverse-transcriptase sequences from drug-naive individuals diagnosed in north and central Italy between 2000 and 2014 were analysed. TDR was evaluated over time. Maximum-likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic trees with bootstrap and Bayesian-probability supports defined transmission clusters. Results: Most individuals were males (80.2%) and Italian (72.1%), with a median (IQR) age of 37 (30-45) years. MSM accounted for 42.2% of cases, followed by heterosexuals (36.4%). Non-B subtype infections accounted for 30.8% of the overall population and increased over time (<2005-14: 19.5%-38.5%, P < 0.0001), particularly among Italians (<2005-14: 6.5%-28.8%, P < 0.0001). TDR prevalence was 8.8% and increased over time in non-B subtypes (<2005-14: 2%-7.1%, P = 0.018). Overall, 467 transmission clusters (involving 1207 individuals; 27.9%) were identified. The prevalence of individuals grouping in transmission clusters increased over time in both B (<2005-14: 12.9%-33.5%, P = 0.001) and non-B subtypes (<2005-14: 18.4%-41.9%, P = 0.006). TDR transmission clusters were 13.3% within the overall cluster observed and dramatically increased in recent years (<2005-14: 14.3%-35.5%, P = 0.005). This recent increase was mainly due to non-B subtype-infected individuals, who were also more frequently involved in large transmission clusters than those infected with a B subtype [median number of individuals in transmission clusters: 7 (IQR 6-19) versus 4 (3-4), P = 0.047]. Conclusions: The epidemiology of HIV transmission changed greatly over time; the increasing number of transmission clusters (sometimes with drug resistance) shows that detection and proper treatment of the multi-transmitters is a major target for controlling HIV spread.