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Through the analysis of immunoglobulin genes at the IGH, IGK, and IGL loci from four Gorilla gorilla gorilla genome assemblies, IMGT® provides an in-depth overview of these loci and their individual variations in a species closely related to humans. The similarity between gorilla and human IG gene organization allowed the assignment of gorilla IG gene names based on their human counterparts. This study revealed significant findings, including variability in the IGH locus, the presence of known and new copy number variations (CNVs), and the accurate estimation of IGHG genes. The IGK locus displayed remarkable homogeneity and lacked the gene duplication seen in humans, while the IGL locus showed a previously unconfirmed CNV in the J-C cluster. The curated data from these analyses, available on the IMGT website, enhance our understanding of gorilla immunogenetics and provide valuable insights into primate evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: High-risk human-papilloma viruses 16 and 18 (HR-HPV 16 and HR-HPV-18) are well known to be associated with carcinoma of the cervix, head and neck, penis, and anus. Low-risk human papillomaviruses 6 and 11 (LR-HPV 6 and LR 11) infection has been associated with anogenital warts, oral papilloma, and laryngeal papillomatosis in children. HPV infection during pregnancy (HR-HPV and LR-HPV) increases the risk of vertical transmission from infected pregnant women to unborn children. The burden of HR-HPV type 16 and 18 and LR-HPV 6 and 11 is not well documented among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics (ANC). This study determined the seroprevalence and distributions of HR-HPV 16, 18, and LR –HPV 6, 11 antibodies among pregnant women attending ANC at Bugando Medical Centre (BMC) in Mwanza, Tanzania. Methodology: A cross-sectional study involving 255 pregnant women enrolled in obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinics was conducted between November 2020 and March 2021 at Bugando Medical Centre (BMC) in Mwanza. A structured pre-tested questionnaire was used to obtain patients' information. Sandwich Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) was used to detect HPV 6, 11, 16 and 18 specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) from sera. Stata version 15v1 was used for the descriptive data analysis. Results: The median age was 27(IQR: 22–31) years. The overall HPV seropositivity for any of the four serotypes was 63.9% (165/255), 95% CI: 58.0-69.7, whereby 37.6%(97/255), 32.2%(83/255), 15.5% (40/255) and 27.1% (70) were positive for HPV 6, 11, 16 and 18 respectively. Eight participants (3.1%) were positive for all 4 genotypes. Conclusion: About two-thirds of pregnant women had antibodies against HPV 6, 11 16, and 18 indicating previous HPV exposure. Vaccination programs should be emphasized to reduce the HPV-related manifestations in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected workers in certain industries and occupations, and the workplace can be a high-risk setting for SARS-CoV-2 transmission. In this study, we measured SARS-CoV-2 antibody prevalence and identified work-related risk factors in a population primarily working at industrial livestock operations. We used a multiplex salivary SARS-CoV-2 IgG assay to determine infection-induced antibody prevalence among 236 adult (≥18 yr) North Carolina residents between February 2021 and August 2022. We used the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Industry and Occupation Computerized Coding System (NIOCCS) to classify employed participants' industry. Most participants (55%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 49% to 62%) were infection-induced IgG positive, including 71% (95% CI 60% to 83%) of animal slaughtering and processing industry workers, 1.5 to 4.3 times North Carolina general population infection-induced seroprevalence estimates during overlapping time periods. Considering self-reported diagnostic test positivity and vaccination history in addition to antibodies, the proportion of participants with evidence of prior infection increased slightly to 61% (95% CI 55% to 67%), including 75% (95% CI 64% to 87%) of animal slaughtering and processing workers. Participants with more than 1000 compared to 10 or fewer coworkers at their jobsite had higher odds of prior infection (adjusted odds ratio 4.5, 95% CI 1.0 to 21.0). This study contributes evidence of the severe and disproportionate impacts of COVID-19 on animal slaughtering and processing workers and workers in large congregate settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) is one of the leading causes of preventable developmental disabilities. A lack of objective screening methods results in an under‐recognition of the phenomenon. Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) is a specific ethanol biomarker that reveals alcohol intake up to several weeks after alcohol use. So far, PEth has mostly been a tool for detecting moderate and heavy drinking. With lower PEth cut‐offs, revealing even minor prenatal alcohol consumption is possible. We aimed to find out if a sensitive method for PEth analysis would give additional information about PAE and to assess the cut‐off value for a positive alcohol result in prenatal screening. Methods: The study was an observational study of 3000 anonymous blood samples collected from the Helsinki University Hospital Diagnostic Center between June and September 2023. The Finnish Red Cross Blood Service received the samples originally for blood group typing and antibody screening as part of the prenatal blood screening program. We developed a sensitive PEth 16:0/18:1 analysis method using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS) equipment after liquid–liquid extraction of PEth from whole blood. The lower limit of quantification was 1 ng/mL. Results: PEth was ≥2 ng/mL in 5.2% of the cases, ≥8 ng/mL in 2.0%, and ≥20 ng/mL in 1.0%. The detection time of PEth can be several weeks, especially with low PEth concentrations and after heavy alcohol consumption. It remained unknown whether the positive PEth tests resulted from drinking deliberately during pregnancy or before pregnancy recognition. Conclusions: We suggest adding PEth 16:0/18:1 to a routine prenatal blood screening program with a cut‐off of 2 ng/mL—and in positive cases, clinical evaluation and retesting in 2–4 weeks. In clinical settings, information on gestational week and alcohol consumption before pregnancy is relevant and needs to be considered when interpreting low PEth concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: People experiencing homelessness are at greater risk of exposure and poor health outcomes from COVID-19. However, little data exist on the prevalence and correlates of COVID-19 among homeless populations. Tomitigate the spread and severity, uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine is needed. This can be challenging among youth experiencing homelessness who are more likely to be unvaccinated when compared to stably housed youth. Objective: We conducted this study to determine the prevalence and correlates of COVID-19 among youth experiencing homelessness. Methods: We examined experiences of COVID-19 symptoms, self-report of infection, and rates of COVID-19 antibodies and distinguished between natural and vaccinated immunity among youth experiencing homelessness (N = 265) recruited in one large metropolitan area in the south. Results: Based on self-report, very few participants experienced any symptoms, and 80%had never been diagnosed with COVID-19. Of those with COVID-19 antibodies (68%), the proportion with antibodies resulting from natural infection was 44%. The vaccination rate was 42%. Younger and vaccinated participants and those in shelters were likelier to have COVID-19 antibodies. Black and Hispanic youth were more likely than White youth to have had COVID-19. Those who adopted only one or two prevention behaviors were more likely to acquire a natural infection than those who adopted three or more prevention behaviors. Discussion: Youth experiencing homelessness report low vaccination rates, disrupted access to healthcare and social supports, and underlying chronic conditions, which may explain why they face poorer outcomes when infected with COVID-19. Vaccination and risk mitigation strategies to combat the high prevalence of COVID-19 are especially needed for sheltered youth who are at high risk yet are often asymptomatic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, inflammation, obesity, and autoimmune disease is linked to the quality of dietary fats, with lower intake of saturated and higher intake of n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) considered beneficial to health. This study investigated the effect of supplementing sows' diets with cow's milk biofortified with n-6 or n-3 PUFA, at varying n-6/n-3 ratios (8.26, 7.92, and 2.72) during their growing phase and throughout gestation and lactation on their reproductive performance and immune-inflammatory status. Specifically, we analyzed circulating cholesterol and fatty acid profiles of serum, colostrum and milk, sow body weight, and neonate colostrum intake, Apgar scores, muscle composition, and embryo viability. Analysis of circulating immunoglobulins (Ig), interleukins, and eicosanoids and complement system hemolytic activity were used to evaluate inflammatory and immune responses of sows and piglets. Expression of lipolysis and lipogenic genes in the liver were investigated in sows and piglets, with additional investigation of hypothalamus genes regulating appetite in sows. Feeding sows milk biofortified with n-6 and n-3 PUFA altered serum fatty acid profiles, reduced triglycerides (TG), increased embryo total number, increased early gestation backfat, and reduced colostrum IgG. Piglets of biofortified sow had higher circulating IgA, IgM and TNF-α, and lower IL-10. Sows fed n-3 biofortified milk had higher very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) and TNF-α in circulation. Offspring from sows fed n-6 versus n-3 biofortified milk had lower IL-10 and expression levels of SREBP-1. N-3 versus n-6 also lowered arachidonic acid (ARA) levels in sow's milk and piglet viability 1. Findings offer insights into the potential health benefits of dietary supplementation with biofortified milk in swine, which serve as good model of diet-nutrition studies of humans, and therefore can potentially be considered in dietary recommendations both human and animal populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural antibodies are used to compare immune systems across taxa, to study wildlife disease ecology, and as selection markers in livestock breeding. These immunoglobulins are present prior to immune stimulation. They are described as having low antigen specificity or polyreactive binding and are measured by binding to self-antigens or novel exogenous proteins. Most studies use only one or two antigens to measure natural antibodies and ignore potential effects of antigen specificity in analyses. It remains unclear how different antigen-specific natural antibodies are related or how diversity among natural antibodies may affect analyses of these immunoglobulins. Using genetically distinct lines of chickens as a model system, we tested the hypotheses that (1) antigen-specific natural antibodies are independent of each other and (2) antigen specificity affects the comparison of natural antibodies among animals. We used blood cell agglutination and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to measure levels of natural antibodies binding to four antigens: (i) rabbit erythrocytes, (ii) keyhole limpet hemocyanin, (iii) phytohemagglutinin, or (iv) ovalbumin. We observed that levels of antigen specific natural antibodies were not correlated. There were significant differences in levels of natural antibodies among lines of chickens, indicating genetic variation for natural antibody production. However, line distinctions were not consistent among antigen specific natural antibodies. These data show that natural antibodies are a pool of relatively distinct immunoglobulins, and that antigen specificity may affect interpretation of natural antibody function and comparative immunology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is one of the most common autoimmune inflammatory disorders affecting the orbit that characterized by swelling of extra ocular muscles (EOMs) and expansion of the orbital fat. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) could assess the microstructural integrity of tissue. We aimed at this study to assess the role of DTI in the evaluation of EOMs and orbital fat in GO and identify the relationship with disease activity. Results: Case–control study included 40 patients diagnosed as Graves' disease (20 active and 20 inactive) and 10 health control subjects underwent DTI. Low fraction anisotropy (FA) and high mean diffusivity (MD) of inferior rectus (IR), medial rectus (MR) and orbital fat in GO versus healthy control (HC), while high FA and high MD in active group versus inactive group. In order to differentiate between GO and HC; FA cutoff point of IR, MR& orbital fat were 0.46, 0.45 and 0.26 with sensitivity 98.8%,98.8% and 93.8% and specificity 95.0%, 95.0% and 85%, respectively. MD cutoff point for IR, MR and orbital fat 1.24, 1.27 and 1.275 with sensitivity 97.5%, 98.8% and 98.8% and specificity 95.0%, 95% and 95%, respectively. To differentiate between active and inactive GO; FA cutoff point of IR, MR and orbital fat were 0.35, 0.36 and 0.22 respectively with sensitivity 80.0%, 82.5% and 72.5% and specificity 95.0%, 85.0% and 65.0%, respectively. MD cutoff point for IR, MR and orbital fat were 1.58, 1.63 and 1.54 respectively with sensitivity 90.0%, 97.5% and 85.0%, and specificity 90.0%, 80.0% and 62.5%, respectively. Conclusions: DTI parameters (FA and MD) of EOMs and orbital fat are considered as crucial radiological biomarkers for diagnosis of GO and could quantitatively differentiate active form inactive disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: It is known that both B cells and myeloblasts from acute myeloid leukemia (AML) express immunoglobulin (Ig). However, the difference between Ig from myeloblasts and B cells has not been explored; therefore, the function and significance of AML-Ig are not well known. Here, we performed 5′ RACE-related PCR coupled with PacBio sequencing to analyze the Ig repertoire of Chinese AML patients. Myeloblasts expressed all five classes of IgH, especially Igγ, with a high expression frequency. Compared with B-Ig in the same AML patient, AML-Ig showed different biased V(D)J usages and mutation patterns. More importantly, mutations of AML-Ig frequently occurred at the sites of post-translational modification. In summary, our results showed that AML-Ig had different sequence characteristics than those of B-Ig and that the unique V(D)J usages of AML-Ig may serve as a novel biomarker for personalized minimal/measurable residual disease monitoring and therapeutic targets in AML patients. It is common knowledge that immunoglobulin (Ig) is produced by B lymphocytes and mainly functions as an antibody. However, it has been shown recently that myeloblasts from acute myeloid leukemia (AML) could also express Ig and that AML-Ig played a role in leukemogenesis and AML progression. The difference between Ig from myeloblasts and B cells has not been explored. Studying the characteristics of the Ig repertoire in myeloblasts and B cells will be helpful to understand the function and significance of AML-Ig. We performed 5′ RACE-related PCR coupled with PacBio sequencing to analyze the Ig repertoire in myeloblasts and B cells from Chinese AML patients. Myeloblasts expressed all five classes of IgH, especially Igγ, with a high expression frequency. Compared with B-Ig in the same patient, AML-Ig showed different biased V(D)J usages and mutation patterns. In addition, the CDR3 length distribution of AML-Ig was significantly different from those of B-Ig. More importantly, mutations of AML-IgH, especially Igμ, Igα, and Igδ, were different from that of B-IgH in each AML patient, and the mutations frequently occurred at the sites of post-translational modification. AML-Ig has distinct characteristics of variable regions and mutations, which may have implications for disease monitoring and personalized therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Altered serum Netrin-1 levels have been widely reported in cancer and other clinical diseases and they are often measured by commercial ELISA kits. However, we found the questionable results using these kits and therefore performed this simple study to evaluate their accuracy in detection of serum Netrin-1. Four commonly used commercial kits were collected. The kit standards were serially diluted or spiked into serum samples. The cells with confirmed expression of Netrin-1 and their culture medium, as well as the Netrin-1 controls of each kit were used for the kits to detect. The cell lysate samples and the kit controls were also blotted on a nitrocellulose membrane for detection antibodies of each kit to probe. Detection of the Netrin-1 standards in serum by each kit were all affected. Only one kit was able to detect Netrin-1 in the cell lysate or medium. No ELISA kits could detect all Netrin-1 controls of the four kits. None of the detection antibodies correctly probed Netrin-1 in the dot blot. The accuracy of these four Netrin-1 ELISA kits is under question. Reported serum Netrin-1 levels based on measurements by these kits need be carefully interpreted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Atlantic cod is a prolific species in the Atlantic, despite its inconsistent specific antibody response. It presents a peculiar case within vertebrate immunology due to its distinct immune system, characterized by the absence of MHCII antigen presentation pathway, required for T cell-dependent antibody responses. Thorough characterisation of immunoglobulin loci and analysis of the antibody repertoire is necessary to further our understanding of the Atlantic cod's immune response on a molecular level. Results: A comprehensive search of the cod genome (gadmor3.0) identified the complete set of IgH genes organized into three sequential translocons on chromosome 2, while IgL genes were located on chromosomes 2 and 5. The Atlantic cod displayed a moderate germline V gene diversity, comprising four V gene families for both IgH and IgL, each with distinct chromosomal locations and organizational structures. 5'RACE sequencing revealed a diverse range of heavy chain CDR3 sequences and relatively limited CDR3 diversity in light chains. The analysis highlighted a differential impact of V-gene germline CDR3 length on receptor CDR3 length between heavy and light chains, underlining different recombination processes. Conclusions: This study reveals that the Atlantic cod, despite its inconsistent antibody response, maintains a level of immunoglobulin diversity comparable to other fish species. The findings suggest that the extensive recent duplications of kappa light chain genes do not result in increased repertoire diversity. This research provides a comprehensive view of the Atlantic cod's immunoglobulin gene organization and repertoire, necessary for future studies of antibody responses at the molecular level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

UV light is a potent mutagen that induces bulky DNA damage in the form of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs). Photodamage and other bulky lesions occurring in nuclear genomes can be repaired through nucleotide excision repair (NER), where incisions on both sides of a damaged site precede the removal of a single-stranded oligonucleotide containing the damage. Mitochondrial genomes (mtDNAs) are also susceptible to damage from UV light, but current evidence suggests that the only way to eliminate bulky mtDNA damage is through mtDNA degradation. Damage-containing oligonucleotides excised during NER can be captured with antidamage antibodies and sequenced (XR-seq) to produce high-resolution maps of active repair locations following UV exposure. We analyzed previously published datasets from Arabidopsis thaliana, Saccharomyces cerevisiae , and Drosophila melanogaster to identify reads originating from the mtDNA (and plastid genome in A. thaliana). In A. thaliana and S. cerevisiae , the mtDNA-mapping reads have unique length distributions compared to the nuclear-mapping reads. The dominant fragment size was 26 nt in S. cerevisiae and 28 nt in A. thaliana with distinct secondary peaks occurring in regular intervals. These reads also show a nonrandom distribution of di-pyrimidines (the substrate for CPD formation) with TT enrichment at positions 7–8 of the reads. Therefore, UV damage to mtDNA appears to result in production of DNA fragments of characteristic lengths and positions relative to the damaged location. The mechanisms producing these fragments are unclear, but we hypothesize that they result from a previously uncharacterized DNA degradation pathway or repair mechanism in mitochondria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Patients with RA treated with Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKis) are at increased risk of herpes zoster (HZ). The objective of this study was to investigate the serological immunogenicity and safety of the HZ subunit (HZ/su) vaccine in RA patients treated with JAKi, for which little is known. Methods RA patients treated with JAKi (n  = 82) at the Department of Rheumatology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund and Malmö, Sweden, and healthy controls (n  = 51) received two doses of the HZ/su vaccine (Shingrix). Vaccine-specific antibody responses were analysed using indirect ELISA. Post-vaccination antibody levels were compared between patients and controls using analysis of covariance. Potential predictors for vaccine response were investigated using a multivariable linear regression analysis. Self-reported adverse events (AEs) and changes in RA disease activity were analysed. Results Following vaccination, vaccine-specific antibody levels increased significantly in both patients and controls (P  < 0.0001). A total of 80.5% of patients and 98.0% of controls achieved a ≥4-fold increase in antibody levels. Post-vaccination antibody levels were lower in patients than controls [ratio 0.44 (95% CI 0.31, 0.63)] and lower in patients receiving JAKi + methotrexate than JAKi monotherapy [ratio 0.43 (95% CI 0.24, 0.79)]. AEs, mostly mild/moderate, were common. One patient developed HZ and six patients (6.5%) had increased RA disease activity following vaccination. Conclusion The HZ/su vaccine was serologically immunogenic in most RA patients treated with JAKi. Moreover, the vaccine had an acceptable safety profile. These results support recommendations for use of the HZ/su vaccine in this vulnerable population. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov (https://clinicaltrials.gov), NCT03886038. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-IgG-associated disease (MOGAD) is a relatively uncommon autoantibody demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) with heterogeneous clinical manifestations and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. In recent years, a rare MOGAD subtype characterized by distinct clinical and MRI findings has been described. Seizures and cortical hyperintensities best seen on MRI T2-weighted fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) sequences, associated with headache and cerebral spine fluid (CSF) pleocytosis, are the most important characteristics of this MOGAD entity that is named FLAMES (FLAIR hyperintense cortical lesions in MOG-associated encephalitis with seizures). Because of its rarity and the peculiarities of the brain damage and clinical manifestations, it can be under-recognized and confused with focal viral encephalitis, meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, CNS vasculitis, or mitochondrial cytopathy. We described the case of a 4-year-old previously healthy girl who was admitted for focal-onset, tonic-clonic seizures, fever, and headache, combined with optic neuritis. MRI was characterized by FLAIR imaging showing hyperintense cortical lesions, and a mild leukocytosis in the CSF was detected. Efficacy and rapid response to steroid therapy was observed, and no recurrences of neurological problems or further seizures were reported in the following 12 months. This case report can help in understanding FLAMES characteristics in pediatrics in order to favor early diagnosis and prompt therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Measurable residual disease (MRD) testing, a standard procedure in B-lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) diagnostics, is assessed using multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis of immunoglobulin gene rearrangements. We evaluated the concordance between eight-color, two-tube MFC-MRD the LymphoTrack NGS-MRD assays using 139 follow-up samples from 54 pediatric patients with B-ALL. We also assessed the effect of hemodilution in MFC-MRD assays. The MRD-concordance rate was 79.9% (N=111), with 25 (18.0%) and 3 (2.2%) samples testing positive only by NGSMRD (MFC-NGS+MRD) and MFC-MRD (MFC+NGS-MRD), respectively. We found a significant correlation in MRD values from total nucleated cells between the two methods (r=0.736 [0.647-0.806], P <0.001). The median MRD value of MFC-NGS+MRD samples was estimated to be 0.0012% (0.0001%-0.0263%) using the NGS-MRD assays. Notably, 14.3% of MFC-NGS+MRD samples showed NGS-MRD values below the limit of detection in the MFC-MRD assays. The percentages of hematogones detected in MFC-MRD assays significantly differed between the discordant and concordant cases (P <0.001). MFC and NGS-MRD assays showed relatively high concordance and correlation in MRD assessment, whereas the NGS-MRD assay detected MRD more frequently than the MFC-MRD assay in pediatric B-ALL. Evaluating the hematogone percentages can aid in assessing the impact of sample hemodilution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background A next-generation Vero cell rabies vaccine (PVRV-NG2) was developed using the same Pitman–Moore strain as in the licensed purified Vero cell vaccine (PVRV; Verorab) and the human diploid cell vaccine (HDCV; Imovax Rabies®). Methods This dual-center, modified, double-blind, phase 3 study evaluated the immunogenic non-inferiority and safety of PVRV-NG2 with and without concomitant intramuscular human rabies immunoglobulin (HRIG) versus PVRV + HRIG and HDCV + HRIG in a simulated post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) regimen. Healthy adults ≥18 years old (N = 640) were randomized 3:1:1:1 to PVRV-NG2 + HRIG, PVRV + HRIG, HDCV + HRIG, or PVRV-NG2 alone (administered as single vaccine injections on days [D] 0, D3, D7, D14, and 28, with HRIG on D0 in applicable groups). Rabies virus neutralizing antibodies (RVNA) titers were assessed pre- (D0) and post-vaccination (D14, D28, and D42) using the rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test. Non-inferiority, based on the proportion of participants achieving RVNA titers ≥0.5 IU/mL (primary objective), was demonstrated if the lower limit of the 95% CI of the difference in proportions between PVRV-NG2 + HRIG and PVRV + HRIG/HDCV + HRIG was >−5% at D28. Safety was assessed up to 6 months after the last injection. Results Non-inferiority of PVRV-NG2 + HRIG compared with PVRV + HRIG and HDCV + HRIG was demonstrated. Nearly all participants (99.6%, PVRV-NG2 + HRIG; 100%, PVRV + HRIG; 98.7%, HDCV + HRIG; 100%, PVRV-NG2 alone) achieved RVNA titers ≥0.5 IU/mL at D28. Geometric mean titers were similar between groups with concomitant HRIG administration at all time points. Safety profiles were similar between PVRV-NG2 and comparator vaccines. Conclusions In a simulated PEP setting, PVRV-NG2 + HRIG showed comparable immunogenicity and safety to current standard-of-care vaccines. Clinical Trials Registration NCT03965962. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Despite advances in the prevention of rhesus (Rh)(D) alloimmunization, alloantibodies to Rh(D) and non-Rh(D) red blood cell antigens continue to be detected in _4% of US pregnancies and can result in hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN). Recent reports on HDFN lack granularity and are unable to provide antibody-specific outcomes. The objective of this study was to calculate the frequency of alloimmunization in our large hospital system and summarize the outcomes based on antibody specificity, titer, and other clinical factors. METHODS: We identified all births in a 6-year period after a positive red blood cell antibody screen result during pregnancy and summarized their characteristics and outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 707 neonates were born after a positive maternal antibody screen result (3.0/1000 live births). In 31 (4%), the positive screen result was due to rhesus immune globulin alone. Of the 676 neonates exposed to alloantibodies, the direct antibody test (DAT) result was positive, showing antigen-positivity and evidence of HDFN in 37% of those tested. Neonatal disease was most severe with DAT-positive anti-Rh antibodies (c, C, D, e, E). All neonatal red blood cell transfusions (15) and exchange transfusions (6) were due to anti-Rh alloimmunization. No neonates born to mothers with anti-M, anti-S, anti-Duffy, anti-Kidd A, or anti-Lewis required NICU admission for hyperbilirubinemia or transfusion. CONCLUSIONS: Alloimmunization to Rh-group antibodies continues to cause a majority of the severe HDFN cases in our hospital system. In neonates born to alloimmunized mothers, a positive DAT result revealing antigen-positivity is the best predictor of anemia and hyperbilirubinemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) and parainfluenza virus type 3 (PIV3) are common respiratory illnesses in children. The safety and immunogenicity of an investigational mRNA-based vaccine, mRNA-1653, encoding membrane-anchored fusion proteins of hMPV and PIV3, was evaluated in hMPV/PIV3-seropositive children. METHODS: In this phase 1b randomized, observer-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-ranging study, hMPV/PIV3-seropositive children were enrolled sequentially into 2 dose levels of mRNA-1653 administered 2 months apart; children aged 12 to 36 months were randomized (1:1) to receive 10-mg of mRNA-1653 or placebo and children aged 12 to 59 months were randomized (3:1) to receive 30-mg of mRNA-1653 or placebo. RESULTS: Overall, 27 participants aged 18 to 55 months were randomized; 15 participants received 10-µg of mRNA-1653 (n = 8) or placebo (n = 7), whereas 12 participants received 30-µg of mRNA-1653 (n = 9) or placebo (n = 3). mRNA-1653 was well-tolerated at both dose levels. The only reported solicited local adverse reaction was tenderness at injection site; solicited systemic adverse reactions included grade 1 or 2 chills, irritability, loss of appetite, and sleepiness. A single 10-µg or 30-µg mRNA-1653 injection increased hMPV and PIV3 neutralizing antibody titers (geometric mean fold-rise ratio over baseline: hMPV-A = 2.9-6.1; MPV-B = 6.2-13.2; PIV3 = 2.8-3.0) and preF and postF binding antibody concentrations (geometric mean fold-rise ratio: hMPV preF 5 5.3-6.1; postF = 4.6-6.5 and PIV3 preF = 13.9-14.2; postF = 11.0-12.1); second injection did not further increase antibody levels in these seropositive children. Binding antibody responses were generally preF biased. CONCLUSIONS: mRNA-1653 was well-tolerated and boosted hMPV and PIV3 antibody levels in seropositive children aged 12 to 59 months, supporting the continued development of mRNA- 1653 or its components for the prevention of hMPV and PIV3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study assessed firefighters' physiological stress response to a live fire training evolution (LFTE). Methods: Seventy-six (n = 76) firefighters completed an LFTE. Salivary samples were collected pre-, immediately post, and 30-min post-LFTE and analyzed for a-amylase (AA), cortisol (CORT), and secretory immunoglobulin-A (SIgA). Results: Concentrations of AA, CORT, and SIgA were elevated immediately post LFTE versus pre (P<0.001) and 30-min post (P<0.001). Cohen's d effect size comparing pre and immediately-post means were 0.83, 0.77, and 0.61 for AA, CORT, and SIgA and were 0.54, 0.44, and 0.69 for AA, CORT, and SIgA, comparing immediately-post and 30-min post, respectively. Conclusions: These data demonstrate the stress response and activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal/sympathetic-adreno-medullar axis and immune system immediately after real-world firefighting operations. Future work is needed to understand the impact of elevated stress biomarkers on firefighter performance and disease risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The etiology of atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is unknown in 30–40% of patients. Anti-factor B (FB) antibodies are reported in C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) and immune-complex membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (IC-MPGN), though not in aHUS. Methods: We screened patients < 18-year-old from cohorts of aHUS and C3G/idiopathic IC-MPGN. Anti-FB IgG antibodies were measured by ELISA and confirmed by Western blot. Normative levels were based on antibody levels in 103 healthy blood donors. Results: Prevalence of anti-FB antibodies was 9.7% (95% CI 6.1–14.5%; n = 21) in 216 patients with aHUS, including 11.5% (95% CI 6.4–18.5%; n = 14) in anti-FH associated aHUS and 11.8% (95% CI 4.4–23.9%; n = 6) in patients without a definitive genetic or autoimmune etiology. Patients with significant genetic variants did not show anti-FB antibodies. In patients with concomitant anti-FB and anti-FH antibodies, median anti-FH titers were higher (11,312 AU/mL vs. 4920 AU/mL; P = 0.04). Anti-FB antibody titer correlated with disease severity (hemoglobin and platelets; P < 0.05), declined following plasma exchange and increased during relapse. While 4/64 patients with C3G (6.3%) and 1/17 with IC-MPGN showed anti-FB antibodies, titers were higher in aHUS (544.8 AU/mL vs. 1028.8 AU/mL; P = 0.003). Conclusion: Anti-FB antibodies are present in 6–10% of patients with aHUS and C3G/IC-MPGN, with higher titers in the former. The diagnostic and therapeutic implication of anti-FB antibodies in aHUS needs confirmation and further studies. The study shows propensity for autoantibody generation and co-existence of multiple risk factors for aHUS in Indian children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Toxoplasma gondii, rubella, and cytomegalovirus (CMV) are among the TORCH (Toxoplasma, Others, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex virus) group microorganisms. Knowing regional epidemiological data on TORCH group infections is important, especially when deciding whether to perform routine screening at the regional and national levels. Our study aimed to evaluate the frequency of T. gondii, rubella, and CMV IgM and/or IgG antibodies in female patients admitted to a state hospital in İstanbul. Method: T. gondii, rubella, and CMV IgG and IgM antibody results tested in patient sera between January 2017 and December 2020 were evaluated retrospectively. Results: The results of 33 636 samples were evaluated. The highest rate of seropositivity was detected in the 20-29 age group (n=4626, 26.72%). The highest of antibody positivity was reported in 2019 (33.29%). The IgG seropositivity rate was 24.1% for T. gondii, 93.5% for rubella, and 98.3% for CMV. Conclusion: Except for the differences in T. gondii seroprevalence, the results of our study seem to be similar to those of other studies both in our country and globally. The seronegativity rate (74.9%) for T. gondii was high in our research, which indicates that pregnant women should be carefully monitored for T. gondii infection in our region. We conclude that more comprehensive studies are needed to establish national screening programs for TORCH group agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main objectives of the World Health Organization is the eradication of viral hepatitis by 2030 by identifying subjects before disease progression. In 2019, only 21% of the 58 million people chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) had been diagnosed, while overall 13% had been treated. The key recommendation of international screening programs is to reach the people at major risk of viral hepatitis and the general population. National plans, including that in Italy, have dedicated budget lines to support efforts to achieve the objective of elimination. The Italian program involves free screening for HCV in the general population born between 1969 and 1989 and also for all persons in the care of addiction services (Ser.D) and prisoners. The screening programs differed slightly among regions in Italy. In particular, referring to the screening for people born in the period of 1969–1989, in Tuscany, these people received an invitation by SMS to undergo a HCV antibody test. If the test results were positive, the subject was registered on a regional platform and required to undergo HCV RNA testing, prescribed by their GP. In the case of testing positive for HCV RNA, the linkage to care (i.e., patient entry into specialist care after diagnosis) is guaranteed. A strong effort is currently required to eliminate HCV effectively. This review highlights the most recent changes to the epidemiological scenario at the global, European, Italian, and regional (Tuscany) levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) has been widely used for determination of high-sensitivity troponin I (hs-cTnI). However, a CMIA analysis is usually affected by the presence of some endogenous or exogenous substances. This case-report aims to unveil the essence of the reoccurrence of false-positive results due to heterophilic antibodies interference with Abbott high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I assay, although the assay method applied a chimeric antibody. A 28-year-old female misdiagnosed with myocarditis due to falsely elevated hs-cTnI with an initial test result of 595.0 ng/L considered as critical value was reported. And the false critical value of hs-cTnI reoccurred five times after admission. The heterophilic blocking tube (HBT) procedure caused a decrease in troponin concentrations within the reference values, which suggests the presence of interference from heterophilic antibodies. It requires a close and strong collaboration between clinicians and laboratorians to manage the similar case on the interference from heterophilic antibodies. To prevent false-positive results caused by interferences from being used in clinical practice, the clinicians are suggested to contact the laboratorians whenever the clinical picture, historical data and laboratory values are not conclusive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: an accurate assessment of the immunity against SARS-CoV-2 can facilitate a better understanding and management of not only the recent coronavirus but similar pathogens as well. Objective: the aim of this study was to evaluate T-cell immunity with reference to antibody titers in a group of pediatric patients with autoimmune arthritides utilizing the widely known Interferon-γ Release Assay (IGRA). Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in the cohort of 55 children suffering from Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). This research analyzed the SARS-CoV-2 T-cell response measured by a specific quantitative IGRA, followed by a serological ELISA test measuring the presence and quantity of IgG, IgM, and IgA antibodies in serum. Results: The cellular response to SARS-CoV-2 measured by the IGRA test significantly correlated with the antibody titers, IgA (p < 0.00003, R = 0.537), IgG (p < 0.0001, R = 0.668), and IgG nucleocapsid protein (NCP) (p < 0.003, R = 0.0399), with no correlation with IgM levels. The antibody levels in patients receiving biological agents were significantly lower compared to the rest of the cohort (p = 0.0369), while traditional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs had no such effect. Limitations: the main limitation of the research is the small sample size, mostly due to the specific cohort of patients and the lack of a healthy control. Conclusions: IGRA appears to be a viable tool in the accurate evaluation of T-cell responses to SARS-CoV-2, and serodiagnostics alone is not always sufficient in the assessment of immune responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomarkers relating to player "stress balance," immunological (ie, immunoglobulin-A), and hormonal (ie, testosterone and cortisol [T:C]) status are now commonly used in football. This article is our critical review of the scientific literature relating to the response of these measures to player load and their relationships with player health. The commonly reported relationship between immunoglobulin-A and training or match load highlights its sensitivity to changes in psychophysiological stress and the increased risk of compromised mucosal immunity. This is supported by its close relationship with symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection and its association with perceived fatigue in football players. Testosterone and cortisol concentrations and the testosterone–cortisol ratio are sensitive to changes in player load, but the direction of their response is often inconsistent and is likely influenced by player training status and non-sport-related stressors. Some evidence indicates that sustained periods of high training volume can increase resting testosterone and that sustained periods of low and high training intensity can increase resting cortisol, compromising the testosterone–cortisol ratio. These findings are noteworthy, as recent findings indicate interrelationships between testosterone, cortisol, and testosterone:cortisol and perceived measures of fatigue, sleep quality, and muscle soreness in football players. Variability in individual responses suggests the need for a multivariate and individualized approach to player monitoring. Overall, we consider that there is sufficient evidence to support the use of salivary immunoglobulin-A, testosterone, cortisol, and testosterone:cortisol measures as part of a multivariate, individualized player monitoring system in professional football. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: HLA epitopes are currently in the focus of transplantation immunogenetics. The main reason is the complexity of the HLA system with >38,000 alleles, the number of which increases steadily. These alleles are determined by the current state-of-the art typing methods like second- and third-generation sequencing. Screening for HLA antibodies is hampered by the lack of specific target beads with all possible alleles described. Summary: A way to circumvent the problem is to define HLA epitopes. The number of antibody-confirmed epitopes, on the other hand, was found to be 72 for HLA class I and 74 for HLA class II. Here, we elaborate on the current knowledge on these HLA epitopes. Absolute definitions of these structures are not yet available. Key Messages: Making use of eplets is a comparable way allowing statistical analyses. However, one should keep in mind that the results obtained are approximative or perhaps better associative. Continuous collaboration is needed for the full understanding of the HLA epitopes. The reactivity toward epitopes remains patient-specific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To investigate the effects of passive immunization with the anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) monoclonal antibodies tixagevimab/cilgavimab on humoral responses and on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outcomes in vaccine-refractory patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) at high risk of severe COVID-19. Methods A prospective cohort study was performed on a cohort of high-risk vaccine-refractory IMID patients treated with a single dose of tixagevimab/cilgavimab (150 mg/150 mg). COVID-19 outcomes as well as serum and salivary anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG were assessed at baseline and for at least 6 months. Results were compared with an untreated high-risk vaccine-refractory IMID population. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) of COVID-19 compared with the general population were calculated for both groups. Results A total of 38 high-risk IMID patients received tixagevimab/cilgavimab and were compared with 114 untreated high-risk IMID controls. Serum anti-spike IgG increased to 6.6 OD (s. d. 0.8) at day 1 and remained positive up to month 6 [6.3 OD (s. d. 1.4)]. Salivary anti-spike IgG peaked at month 2 [1.6 OD (s. d. 1.1)] and decreased from month 3 [0.8 OD (s. d. 0.3)]. No severe or extended infection was observed in the tixagevimab/cilgavimab group. Compared with the general population, the SIR of COVID-19 in treated patients was 0.76 (95% CI 0.24, 1.58) despite the increased risk profile. The SIR of the control group was 1.51 (95% CI 1.07, 2.02), corresponding to a significantly increased incidence. Conclusions Passive immunization with tixagevimab/cilgavimab is safe and effective in inducing anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunity and potentially in preventing COVID-19 in high-risk vaccine-refractory IMID patients. These data provide a proof of concept for the use of monoclonal antibodies as a preventative strategy against SARS-CoV-2 in vulnerable populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Immunoglobulin (IG) therapy is widely used to treat primary and secondary immune deficiencies and as immunomodulatory agent for various disorders. There is great concern that shortages of IG may rise, potentially affecting medical treatment options. Study Design and Methods: An international survey was developed to study how intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIGs) are used and managed within hospitals in case of shortages. Study data were collected and managed using REDCap electronic data capture tools hosted by the Biomedical Excellence for Safer Transfusion (BEST) Collaborative. The survey was directed to hospital pharmacists and blood bank transfusion professionals and disseminated through members of the BEST Collaborative network. Results: Survey respondents from institutions in the USA, Canada, Europe, Japan, and Australia (n = 13) confirmed that the primary specialties utilizing IG are neurology, hematology, and immunology. More than 60% of respondents reported IG supply shortages, but mitigation strategies were not well developed. Discussion: As IG is the leading driver in plasma demand, more studies are needed to understand current and future demand for IG from the clinical perspective. Necessity lies in establishing clinical guidance to address shortages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to clarify whether there are sex‐specific differences in salivary α‐amylase and immunoglobulin A responses following acute endurance exercise in adolescent males and females with equivalent cardiorespiratory fitness levels. Twenty‐six aerobically trained adolescent males and females with similar training status were enrolled in this study. Each individual executed a 1‐h prolonged cycling exercise corresponding to a constant power output at 65% of peak oxygen uptake. Unstimulated whole salivary samples were taken with the passive drooling method at the 10‐min period before and after exercise for the determination of salivary responses [α‐amylase, immunoglobulin A, total protein and flow rate]. Salivary α‐amylase activity, immunoglobulin A concentration and total protein concentration were significantly augmented immediately after acute endurance exercise. Regarding sex differences, only the salivary flow rate was significantly lower in females than in males. The findings of the present study imply that adolescent males and females appear to have similar salivary responses after acute endurance exercise, as represented by salivary α‐amylase activity and immunoglobulin A concentration in connection with total protein concentration and salivary flow rate, when they are matched for peak oxygen uptake relative to fat‐free body mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eczema herpeticum (EH), also known as varicelliform eruption of Kaposi, is a herpes simplex virus infection that develops mainly in the setting of pre-existing chronic dermatoses such as atomic dermatitis, ichthyosis, seborrheic dermatitis, Darier's disease, pemphigus foliaceus, mycosis fungoides, and psoriasis, and is most commonly associated with atopic dermatitis. In this article, we describe an 18-year-old female patient with atopic dermatitis diagnosed with EH after subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis and present this very rare side effect in the light of the current literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to assess the vaccine response to the COVID-19 outbreak installed at the institution. To conduct this case report, 36 individuals were evaluated, among residents and employees of this institution. Blood samples were collected by venipuncture and the presence of antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 (total antibodies, IgG and IgM) were analysed in these samples; 25% of patients/staff (n = 9) seroconverted with only the first dose of CoronaVac® in just 14 days after the first dose of the vaccine. These individuals did not developed symptoms of COVID-19 during the outbreak that occurred at the institution. Vaccine response to CoronaVac®, after an outbreak of COVID-19 at the studied institution, was higher than the response postulated in other previously published studies with detection of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies before the second dose of the vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Detection of type 1 diabetes (T1D) at the preclinical stage is possible by detecting islet autoantibodies (IAs) years before the appearance of symptomatic diabetes. The Antibody Detection Israeli Research is a general population screening program searching for children with multiple IAs who are at risk of developing T1D. IAs are measured in capillary or venous whole blood (WB) samples using the novel ultrasensitive antibody detection by agglutination-PCR (ADAP) technology. Objective. To assess the accuracy and reliability of the ADAP assay in venous and capillary WB. Materials and Methods. In total, 50 children with T1D and 50 healthy controls participated in the study. Venous and capillary blood samples were drawn from participants with T1D, while only venous blood was drawn from the controls. The ADAP assay in venous and capillary blood was compared to the currently used assays in their ability to detect glutamic acid decarboxylase (GADA), islet antigen-2 (IA-2A), and insulin autoantibodies (IAAs). Results. The area under the curve using the receiver operating characteristic curves was comparable between the ADAP assay in WB and standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)/radioimmunoassay (RIA) for all three IAs GADA 0.946 (95% CI: 0.900–0.991) vs. 0.949 (0.906–0.992), P = 0.873 ; IA-2A 0.747 (0.649–0.844) vs. 0.666 (0.587–0.744), P = 0.106 ; IAA 1.000 (1.000–1.000) vs. 1.000 (1.000–1.000), P = 1.000. The correlation between the levels of IA in venous and capillary WB using ADAP was R2 = 0.958 (P < 0.01), R2 = 0.943 (P < 0.01), and R2 = 0.711 (P < 0.01) for GADA, IA-2A, and IAA, respectively. IA levels in venous and capillary WB using ADAP were comparable without a proportional bias in Bland–Altman's plots of agreement, suggesting the two methods may be used interchangeably. Conclusions. The ADAP assay is reliable in detecting IA in venous and capillary WB samples with comparable performance to standard RIA and ELISA. These findings open avenues for widespread use of the ADAP assay in future general population screening programs to detect children at risk of developing T1D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To assess the correlations between Immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels, pruritus, and lesion severity in patients with eczema, atopic dermatitis, or urticaria. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted and data of 814 patients who visited the dermatology or allergy clinics of multiple hospitals, from December 2019 to December 2021, were collected. Patients were divided into children group (< 18 years, 325 cases), adult group (18– 60 years, 435 cases), and older population group (> 60 years, 54 cases) based on the age. Baseline information, pruritus severity, severity of skin lesions, total IgE level, and specific IgE level were recorded to analyze the complex relationship between them. Results: The prevalence of allergic conjunctivitis and allergic rhinitis in the children group was significantly higher than that in the adult and older population group (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). The positive rate of specific IgE in children group was significantly higher than that in the adult and older population group (P < 0.01). The IgE levels in children with moderate pruritus were significantly lower than those of severe pruritus (63.39vs 114.42 IU/mL, P < 0.05). The IgE levels in children with mild and moderate skin lesions were significantly lower than those in children with severe skin lesions (58.95 vs 72.88 vs 169.15 IU/mL, P < 0.001 or P < 0.01, respectively). Conclusion: Relationships among age, severity of skin pruritus and lesions, and allergen-specific IgE response are complex and subtle, displaying dynamic patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article comments on a study linking salivary Immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies to malondialdehyde-acetaldehyde with mild periodontal pocket depth. Topics discussed include the role of these antibodies in periodontal disease, their diagnostic implications, and potential strategies for treatment based on these findings.

We investigated expressions of PD-L1, LAG-3, TIM-3, and OX40L as immune checkpoint proteins, and MSI (repetitive short-DNA-sequences due to defective DNA-repair system) status were analyzed with immunohistochemistry from tissue blocks. Of 83 patients, PD-L1 expression was observed in 18.1% (n = 15) of the patients. None of the patients exhibited LAG-3 expression. TIM-3 expression was 4.9% (n = 4), OX40L was 22.9% (n = 19), and 8.4% (n = 7) of the patients had MSI tumor. A low-to-intermediate positive correlation was observed between PD-L1 and TIM-3 expressions (rho: 0.333, p < 0.01). Although PD-L1 expression was higher in grade 3 NET/NEC, MSI status was prominent in grade 1/2 NET. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Inaugural axial muscle involvement, defined as dropped head syndrome (DHS) and/or camptocormia (CC), is poorly described in inflammatory myopathies (IM). This study aimed to further characterize IM patients with inaugural DHS/CC, their outcome and care management. Methods This retrospective study included IM patients diagnosed between 2000 and 2021. The main inclusion criterion was IM revealed by axial muscle deficit (DHS/CC). Results Twenty-seven patients were included; median (IQR) age at first symptoms was 66.0 years (55.5–75.0); 21 were female (77.8%). There were nine IBM, 33.3%, nine overlap myositis (OM, 33.3%), five DM, 18.5%, two immune checkpoint inhibitor-related myositis (7.4%), one focal myositis (3.7%) and one myositis with anti-Hu antibodies (3.7%). Age at first symptoms was ≤70 years in 16 patients (59.3%), including all DM patients and 8/9 OM patients (88.9%). In this group, partial remission of the disease was obtained in 9/16 (56.3%) and complete remission in 1/16 patients (6.3%); regression of DHS/CC was achieved in 3/16 patients (18.8%). Conversely, in the group of 11 patients aged >70 years at first symptoms, there were eight IBM (72.7%). Partial remission was obtained in 5/11 patients (45.5%), the disease was stable in 6/11 patients (54.5%); no complete remission was obtained nor regression of DHS/CC. Conclusion The analysis of IM patients with inaugural DHS/CC delineates two groups of patients according to the age at first symptoms in terms of clinical and outcome specificities, and proposes an adapted diagnostic and care management approach to prevent long-term complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intra-omental splenic autotransplantation is the only method described so far to preserve spleen function after splenectomy; however, it is associated with some postoperative complications. The present study aimed to compare the effectiveness and feasibility of an omentum rotational flap (ORF) with the spleen auto transplant in the omentum (SAO) for preserving splenic function. Forty male Wistar rats were equally divided into two ORF and SAO groups. White blood cell (WBC), hemoglobin (Hb), platelet, immunoglobulin A, M, and G (IgA, IgM, IgG), and complement levels (C3, C4) were measured before and 4 weeks after the surgery. Technetium-99 m scintigraphy was performed to assess the postoperative splenic function in both groups. There was no significant difference between the groups' preoperative hematological factors. The Hb, C3, C4, IgM, and IgA levels were significantly decreased after intervention in both groups (p < 0.05), and the WBC and platelet counts were significantly reduced after surgery in ORF and SAO groups, respectively. The postoperative level of WBC was significantly lower in ORF compared to the SAO group (p < 0.001). The radioisotope uptake was decreased after surgery in both groups (p < 0.05), and no significant difference was observed in terms of improving radioisotope uptake between the groups (p = 0.63). The duration of surgery was significantly higher in the SAO compared to the ORF group (p < 0.001). In splenic injuries, the omentum rotational flap technique instead of spleen auto transplant in the omentum seems to be an effective surgical method for preserving the function of the spleen, but the evaluation of its safety needs more clinical study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context.-- Many studies have depended on qualitative antibody assays to investigate questions related to COVID-19 infection, vaccination, and treatment. Objective.-- To evaluate immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels in vaccinated individuals over time and characterize limitations of qualitative and quantitative antibody assays. Design.-- Longitudinal serum samples (n = 339) were collected from 72 health care workers vaccinated against COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels before, during, and after vaccination were measured by using a qualitative anti-spike protein IgG assay and a quantitative anti-S1 IgG assay. Assay results were compared to understand antibody dynamics related to vaccination. Results.-- Qualitative testing demonstrated 100% seroconversion after the first vaccine dose, peak IgG levels after the second vaccine dose, and a progressive 50% decline during the next 8 months. Quantitative testing demonstrated that IgG levels during and after vaccination were above the analytical measurement range. Conclusions.-- Qualitative testing demonstrates expected changes in SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels related to sequential vaccine doses and time since antigen exposure. However, proportional changes in the associated numerical signals are very likely inaccurate. Adoption of standardized quantitative SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing with a broad analytical measurement range is essential to determine a correlate of protection from COVID-19 that can be scaled for widespread use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and aim: A direct causal relationship between vitamin D (vit D) deficiency and recurrent wheezing has not been proven. The present study investigated the role of vit D in enhancing the risk of asthma or recurrent wheezing by modifying the intensity of the inflammatory process. Material and method: Forty children with wheezing presenting at the emergency service and sixteen healthy control subjects were included in the study. Children with wheezing were either in the first episode (20) or with recurrent wheezing (20). Children with chronic diseases, and other conditions that present with acute wheezing or that might influence the vit D level, were excluded. Blood samples were taken at presentation and 3–6 months later, to evaluate the serum levels of total IgE, vit D, IL-10 and IL-31. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 25 program, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results and conclusion. The vit D level was lower in patients with recurrent wheezing compared with those with a single episode and with the control group, and this increased with time. IL-10 was significantly higher in children with wheezing than in the control group, with the highest values in those with an acute episode of wheezing. IL-31 was higher in children with recurrent wheezing than in those with a first episode only at the initial point, while at the final time point it was lower. Low levels of vit D appear to be detected more frequently in recurrent wheezing than in simple wheezing. Immune modulation, as measured by Th2 status reflected by IL-10 and IL-31 levels, appears to depend on the wheezing phenotype and on the general health status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine the relationship between conferred immunity after standard pneumococcal series and refractory otolaryngologic infections in pediatric patients using post-vaccination antibody titers, and to identify contributory underlying conditions revealed when vaccination/re-vaccination fails to confer protective immunity. Study Design: IRB-reviewed and "exempt" retrospective case series with chart review using the Epic® Electronic Medical Record system from 2013 to 2021. Setting: Dedicated tertiary referral children's hospital. Methods: Pneumococcal antibody titer results were assessed for children ages 0 to 21 years and: (1) at least 1 of 7 otolaryngologic disease diagnoses and (2) having received the 4-dose schedule of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV 7 or 13). Results: A total of 241 subjects met inclusion criteria with 356 laboratory tests. Recurrent acute otitis media, chronic rhinitis, and chronic otitis media with effusion were the 3 most frequent diagnoses. At presentation, only 27.0% of subjects had titers conferring immunity from their prior vaccinations with PCV. About 85 subjects had been subsequently revaccinated with Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV), and antibody responses conferring immunity reached 91.8%. Seven subjects never developed adequate responses; 5 of these had recurrent acute otitis media as the primary otolaryngologic diagnosis. Secondary "revealed" diagnoses included Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (n = 1), unresolved specific antibody deficiency (n = 2), and Hypogammaglobulinemia (n = 1). Conclusion: In pediatric patients with recurrent infectious otolaryngologic disease refractory to traditional medical and surgical therapy, inadequate responses to pneumococcal vaccination may be revealed. This correlation represents a potential pathway for diagnosis and therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a part of the childhood routine immunization program. It is known that allergic reactions, from urticaria to anaphylaxis, may develop against MMR vaccines containing trace amounts of egg protein and other ingredients. Aim: To determine whether children with any degree of egg allergy show allergic reactions to the MMR vaccine application and to draw attention to the fact that children without a history of anaphylaxis can be vaccinated safely by practitioners and/or family physicians in health centers. Material and methods: The files of 90 patients who were vaccinated between 2017 and 2022 in the pediatric allergy clinic were retrospectively analyzed. These patients were those who were followed up due to egg allergy in our outpatient clinic or were referred from the family health centers because the family said that the baby had an egg allergy. Results: A total of 94 doses of vaccination were given to 90 patients. Four doses were for those who were vaccinated for a second time. All skin prick tests with 94 doses of MMR vaccine were negative, and only 1 patient (1/94, 1.06%) developed nonspecific macular rash 0.5 h after vaccination. No other allergic reactions or anaphylaxis were observed. Conclusions: No serious allergic reaction developed after MMR vaccination in IgE-mediated egg allergy patients. We think that there is no harm in administering MMR vaccine to these patients in family health centers where other vaccines are applied, without testing with the vaccine and without the need for divided doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context.--Salivary gland neoplasms are rare lesions in the head and neck (H&N) pathology realm. There are more than 20 malignant and 15 benign salivary gland neoplasms in the 5th edition of the World Health Organization classification of H&N tumors. These neoplasms consist of heterogeneous groups of uncommon diseases that make diagnosis and treatment challenging for the clinical team. Using an algorithmic immunohistochemical approach-- defined tumor origin and type has proven to be effective and advantageous. Immunohistochemistry may be used as sort of a ''diagnostic looking glass,'' not as a positive or negative type tool, but as an indispensable complement to a hematoxylin-eosin morphologic pattern--based approach. Furthermore, the understanding of the novel discoveries of the salivary gland gene fusions and the molecular aspects of these tumors makes the process easier and improve the diagnosis as well as treatment aspects. This review reflects our experience with more recent diagnostic antibodies, which include MYB RNA, Pan-TRK, PLAG1, LEF1, and NR4A3. Each of these is linked with a specific type of neoplasm; for example, gene fusions involving the PLAG1 and HMGA2 oncogenes are specific for benign pleomorphic adenomas, and MYB is associated with adenoid cystic carcinoma. Objective.--To review these more recent antibodies, which highly enhance salivary gland neoplasm diagnosis. Data Sources.--The study sources involved literature PubMed searches, including multiple review articles, case reports, selected book chapters, and Geisinger Medical Center cases. Conclusions.--Salivary gland tumors are a rare, varied group of lesions in H&N pathology. We need to have continuous readings and revisions of the molecular consequences of these fusion oncoproteins and their subsequent targets, which will eventually lead to the identification of novel driver genes in salivary gland neoplasms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context.--Substantial variability between different antibody titration methods has been identified since the development and introduction of the uniform procedure in 2008. Objective.--To determine whether more recent methods or techniques decrease interlaboratory and intralaboratory variation measured using proficiency testing. Design.--Proficiency test data for antibody titration between 2014 and 2018 were obtained from the College of American Pathologists. Interlaboratory and intralaboratory variations were compared by analyzing the distribution of titer results by method and phase, comparing the results against the supplier's quality control titer, and by evaluating the distribution of paired titer results when each laboratory received a sample with the same titer twice. Results.--A total of 1337 laboratories participated in the antibody titer proficiency test during the study period. Only 54.1% (5874 of 10 852) of anti-D and 63.4% (3603 of 5680) of anti-A reported responses were within 1 titer of the supplier's intended result. Review of the agreement between laboratories of the same methodology found that 78.4% (3139 of 4004) for anti-A and 89.0% (9655 of 10 852) of laboratory responses for anti-D fell within 1 titer of the mode response. When provided with 2 consecutive samples of the same titer (anti-D titer: 16), 85% (367 of 434) of laboratories using the uniform procedure and 80% (458 of 576) using the other method reported a titer difference of 1 or less. Conclusions.--Despite advances, interlaboratory and intralaboratory variance for this assay remains high in comparison with the strong reliance on titer results in clinical practice. There needs to be a reevaluation of the role of this test in clinical decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is the most abundant antibody in the blood and plays a critical role in host immune defense against infectious agents. Glycosylation is known to modulate the effector functions of IgG and is involved in disease development and progression. It is no surprise that the N-glycome of IgG from plasma has already been proposed as a biomarker for various physiological and pathological conditions. However, because saliva is easy to collect, it could be useful for exploring the functional role of salivary IgG N-glycosylation and its potential as a diagnostic biomarker. Therefore, in this study, we described a method for N-glycome analysis of IgG from saliva samples. Salivary IgG N-glycans were analyzed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography based on hydrophilic interactions with fluorescence detection (HILIC-UHPLC-FLR). In addition, we compared IgG N-glycan profiles from saliva with those from plasma, assessed the stability of salivary IgG N-glycan profiles under different storage conditions, and evaluated the effects of using a saliva preservation medium. This study provides an ultrasensitive UHPLC method for the analysis of total IgG N-glycosylation from saliva, gives insight into storage stability of salivary IgG, and highlights its (dis)advantages for further biomarker-related research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have evaluated the clinical benefits of Shenshu Dingchuan decoction in chronic bronchial asthma patients treated with budesonide or formoterol. To this end, chronic bronchial asthma patients were divided into two groups and treated with budesonide or formoterol alone (the control group) or budesonide or formoterol plus Shenshu Dingchuan decoction (the treatment group). Shenshu Dingchuan decoction combined with budesonide formoterol decreased traditional Chinese medicine syndrome scores, elevated forced expiratory volume in one second, forced vital capacity, and forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity levels, decreased fractional exhaust nitric oxide and total immunoglobulin E levels, and the elevated total effective rate after treatment. In conclusion, these observed changes reflect a marked clinical improvement in lung function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In case of newly emerging pathogens, convalescent plasma (CP) is often the only early available treatment option. It has been shown that different IgG subclasses contribute differently to CP neutralizing activity. As CP donors often have a risk profile like first-time donors, especially with respect to window-period viral transmission, pathogen reduction (PR) could mitigate that risk. The aim of our study, especially in the light of potential future pandemics, was to evaluate the impact of commercially available PR technologies on total IgG and IgG subclasses quantity and distribution in CP using COVID-19 CP (CCP) as surrogate for CP in a side-by-side comparison approach. Methods: 36 apheresis CCP donations were allocated to three study groups and a side-by-side assessment of the potential impact of amotosalen (AS)/UVA treatment compared to a riboflavin (RB)/UVB treatment, AS against methylene blue (MB) treatment, and RB against MB treatment on the quantity of IgG and IgG subclasses with a nephelometric analyzer was performed. Results: IgG subclass distributions were not significantly changed post PR treatment with all three technologies. There was also no significant difference in the median loss of concentration for IgG1 and IgG2 between the three technologies. We recognized a non-significant trend of a higher IgG4 median loss post RB treatment compared to post AS and MB treatment, respectively. Conclusion: Although the three commercially available PR systems do not significantly alter the distribution of IgG subclasses, we detected a non-significant trend of higher IgG4 loss after RB treatment. The potential impact of that finding needs further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]