Discovery and functional characterization of cardiovascular long noncoding RNAs

Recent advances in sequencing and genomic technologies have resulted in the discovery of thousands of previously unannotated long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). However, their function in the cardiovascular system remains elusive. Here we review and discuss considerations for cardiovascular lncRNA discovery, annotation and functional characterization. Although we primarily focus on the heart, the proposed pipeline should foster functional and mechanistic exploration of these transcripts in various cardiovascular pathologies. Moreover, these insights could ultimately lead to novel therapeutic approaches targeting lncRNAs for the amelioration of cardiovascular diseases including heart failure

Enhanced weak superconductivity in trigonal γ\gamma-PtBi2_2

Electrical transport experiments show superconductivity in a high-quality single crystal of trigonal $\gamma$-PtBi$_2$. The critical temperature shows a large dependence on the electrical current and in the limit of very low currents, a $T_c$ = 1.1 K is observed, while a zero temperature critical field $B_c$(0) $\approx$ 1.5 Tesla is estimated. These are the highest superconducting parameters reported (at ambient pressure) in a stoichiometric $\gamma$-PtBi$_2$ bulk sample so far. Under a magnetic field a strict zero resistance state is no longer observed even though an incipient superconducting transition is seen. Such a behavior is most probably associated with very low critical currents and is reminiscent of filamentary superconductivity. The superconducting state is elusive to magnetization measurements discarding a bulk phase down to $T =$ 0.3 K.Comment: 5 pages, 5 figure

Grice subtalar arthrodesis of bilateral adult flatfoot in a professional dancer: A case report

Background and aim: Adult acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD) is a common pathology and an important cause of pain and disability. This deformity causes a progressive flattening of the foot arch which has traditionally been associated with posterior tibialis tendon (PTT) dysfunction. Operative treatment is indicated after the failure of conservative management aiming to achieve proper alignment of the hindfoot and to maintain as much flexibility as possible. If subtalar osteoarthritis is present, subtalar arthrodesis is usually the best therapeutic option. Grice-Green subtalar arthrodesis is a widely used procedure. Methods: This report describes a case of bilateral painful AAFD in a 39-years old female professional dancer treated with Grice-Green subtalar arthrodesis with an autologous corticocancellous graft harvested from the ipsilateral proximal tibia. Surgeries were performed 3 years apart from each other. Results: The patient had good clinical and radiological outcomes. She returned to dance 4 months after surgery with no referred pain or limitations. Conclusions: Due to its versatility and capability to restore the shape and thickness of the hindfoot Grice-Green procedure is a simple and effective technique for the treatment of AAFD with subtalar osteoarthritis and a valid option to solve professional disabilities as it happened in this case with a professional dancer. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Long-term results after modified Burton-Pellegrini’s technique in 24 cases affected by advanced rhizarthrosis

Background and aim: Rhizarthrosis iscommon in elderly and represents 10% of all artrhitic manifestations. Trapeziectomy with ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition remains the gold standard for stages II to IV according to Eaton and Littler. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the results of 24 patients affected by advanced rhizarthrosis who underwent to modified Burton-Pellegrini’s trapeziectomy with ligamentoplasty using the entire flexor carpi radialis tendon. Methods: Patients were assessed through DASH and PRWHE questionnaires; the examination focused also on pain symptoms (VAS score) and the results obtained in carrying out specific tests to evaluate the trapezius-metacarpal functionality (key-pinch, grip strength, Kapandji test, reduction of wrist flexion strength). Furthermore, postoperative complications were evaluated. Results: Clinical evaluation and individual satisfaction were positive in most cases (mean DASH 18,8 and mean PRWHE 21,7). VAS pain score reduced of 76.7%, grip strength and key pinch were similar to those of the non-operated hand and Kapandji test was excellent in 20 patients. One superficial wound infection was encountered which resolved by specific antibiotic therapy. Conclusions: The choice of the most appropriate treatment depends on clinical conditions and socio-occupational factors of the patient (age, sex and functional needs), the degree of osteoarthritis and the presence of deformities of the first metacarpophalangeal joint. Surgery aims to relief pain and to improve joint function and strength. According to the results observed this surgical technique has to be considered a valid option for the treatment of advanced rhizarthrosis as it provides pain relief, stability and mobility of the thumb. (www.actabiomedica.it)

Is there a relation between clinical scores and serum ion levels after MoM-THA? One year results in 383 implants

Background and aim of the work: Adverse reaction to metal debris is the major cause of the high revision rates of metal on metal hip implants with femoral head size ≥ 36mm. Health authorities recommend regular surveillance even for asymptomatic individuals. The main investigations used are Co+ and Cr+ serum levels, x-rays and, eventually, ultrasound and MARS-MRI. Clinic is also assessed. The aim of this study is to identify if there is a relation between ion levels and the clinical scores in order to evaluate the outcome and plan the correct management after this type of implant. Methods: 383 subjects were included and divided in 3 groups (serum ion levels >, < and >60 µg/L). Co+, Cr+, HHS and OHS results of 1 year (2017) were analysed in order to show a correlation between ion levels and clinical scores. Results: Clinical scores were similar in group 1 and 2. Differences were observed comparing the group 1 and 2 with group 3 for both variables. Discussion and Conclusions: Surveillance algorithms have been introduced by health authorities. Nevertheless, the indication to revision surgery is not simple especially in those cases in which a discrepancy between clinic and investigations is present. In this study clinical scores seem to be less important than ion levels in the evaluation of outcomes and in order to plan the correct management in the majority of cases. Larger studies are needed to highlight the real importance of clinical scores in the decision making after these type of implants