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- Gnann, J. W., et al.
(author)
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Herpes Simplex Encephalitis: Lack of Clinical Benefit of Long-term Valacyclovir Therapy
- 2015
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In: Clinical Infectious Diseases. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1058-4838 .- 1537-6591. ; 61:5, s. 683-691
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background. Despite the proven efficacy of acyclovir (ACV) therapy, herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) continues to cause substantial morbidity and mortality. Among patients with HSE treated with ACV, the mortality rate is approximately 14%-19%. Among survivors, 45%-60% have neuropsychological sequelae at 1 year. Thus, improving therapeutic approaches to HSE remains a high priority. Methods. Following completion of a standard course of intravenous ACV, 87 adult patients with HSE (confirmed by positive polymerase chain reaction [PCR] for herpes simplex virus DNA in cerebrospinal fluid) were randomized to receive either valacyclovir (VACV) 2 g thrice daily (n = 40) or placebo tablets (n = 47) for 90 days (12 tablets of study medication daily). The primary endpoint was survival with no or mild neuropsychological impairment at 12 months, as measured by the Mattis Dementia Rating Scale (MDRS). Logistic regression was utilized to assess factors related to the primary endpoint. Results. The demographic characteristics of the 2 randomization groups were statistically similar with no significant differences in age, sex, or race. At 12 months, there was no significant difference in the MDRS scoring for VACV-treated vs placebo recipients, with 85.7% and 90.2%, respectively, of patients demonstrating no or mild neuropsychological impairment (P = .72). No significant study-related adverse events were encountered in either treatment group. Conclusions. Following standard treatment with intravenous ACV for PCR-confirmed HSE, an additional 3-month course of oral VACV therapy did not provide added benefit as measured by neuropsychological testing 12 months later in a population of relatively high-functioning survivors.
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- Lindblad-Toh, Kerstin, et al.
(author)
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Genome sequence, comparative analysis and haplotype structure of the domestic dog.
- 2005
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In: Nature. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1476-4687 .- 0028-0836. ; 438:7069, s. 803-19
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Here we report a high-quality draft genome sequence of the domestic dog (Canis familiaris), together with a dense map of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across breeds. The dog is of particular interest because it provides important evolutionary information and because existing breeds show great phenotypic diversity for morphological, physiological and behavioural traits. We use sequence comparison with the primate and rodent lineages to shed light on the structure and evolution of genomes and genes. Notably, the majority of the most highly conserved non-coding sequences in mammalian genomes are clustered near a small subset of genes with important roles in development. Analysis of SNPs reveals long-range haplotypes across the entire dog genome, and defines the nature of genetic diversity within and across breeds. The current SNP map now makes it possible for genome-wide association studies to identify genes responsible for diseases and traits, with important consequences for human and companion animal health.
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- Catena, N, et al.
(author)
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Current concepts in diagnosis and management of common upper limb nerve injuries in children
- 2021
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In: Journal of children's orthopaedics. - : SAGE Publications. - 1863-2521 .- 1863-2548. ; 15:2, s. 89-96
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) of the upper limb are a common event in the paediatric population, following both fractures and soft tissues injuries. Open injuries should in theory be easier to identify and the repair of injured structures performed as soon as possible in order to obtain a satisfying outcome. Conversely, due to the reduced compliance of younger children during clinical assessment, the diagnosis of a closed nerve injury may sometimes be delayed. As the compliance of patients is influenced by pain, anxiety and stress, the execution of the clinical manoeuvres intended to identify a loss of motor function or sensibility, can be impaired. Although the majority of PNI are neuroapraxias resulting in spontaneous recovery, there are open questions regarding certain aspects of closed PNI, e.g. when to ask for electrophysiological exams, when and how long to wait for a spontaneous recovery and when a surgical approach becomes mandatory. The aim of the article is therefore to analyse the main aspects of the different closed PNI of the upper limb in order to provide recommendations for timely and correct management, and to determine differences in the PNI treatment between children and adults.
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