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Background: A protective hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine has been available for four decades. Universal HBV vaccination of infants is recommended by the WHO since the 1990s. Furthermore, HBV immunization is advised for all adults with high-risk behaviours and no seroprotection. However, HBV vaccine coverage remains globally suboptimal. The advent of new more efficacious trivalent HBV vaccines has renewed the interest in HBV vaccination. At present, the extent of current HBV susceptibility in adults remains unknown in Spain., Methods: HBV serological markers were assessed on a large and representative sample of adults in Spain, including blood donors and individuals belonging to high-risk groups. Serum HBsAg, anti-HBc and anti-HBs were tested in specimens collected during the last couple of years., Results: From 13 859 consecutive adults tested at seven cities across the Spanish geography, overall 166 (1.2%) had positive HBsAg. Past HBV infection was recognized in 14% and prior vaccine immunization in 24%. Unexpectedly, 37% of blood donors and 63% of persons belonging to high-risk groups had no serum HBV markers and therefore were potentially HBV susceptible., Conclusion: Roughly 60% of adults living in Spain seem to be HBV susceptible. Waning immunity might be more common than expected. Hence, HBV serological testing should be performed at least once in all adults regardless of risk exposures. HBV vaccine full courses or boosters should be administered to all adults lacking serological evidence of HBV protection., (© 2023 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: The response rate of hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is variable. Increasing dose or accelerated schedule is the suggested strategy to improve seroconversion., Aim: We performed a meta-analysis to determine the pooled response rate of HBV vaccination and to identify the predictors of seroconversion., Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane library databases. Studies reporting the response of HBV vaccination in IBD patients were included. Response was recorded as adequate immune response (AIR, >10 IU/L) and Effective immune response (EIR, >100 IU/L). Pooled AIR and EIR rates were calculated for different doses (10-20 μg or 40 μg) and schedules (standard: 0, 1 and 6 months or accelerated: 0, 1 and 2 months). Meta-analysis was performed to identify the predictors of response., Results: Twenty-one studies including 2602 patients were eligible. Pooled AIR and EIR rates after HBV vaccination were 62% (95% CI, 55-68) and 42% (95% CI, 37-48), respectively. Pooled AIR and EIR rates for standard and double dose were similar. Pooled AIR and EIR rates were also comparable for different schedules of HBV vaccination. Gender, IBD subtype and disease activity did not affect the response rate. Use of immunosuppression [immunomodulators (RR: 0.73, 95% CI, 0.62-0.87) and anti-TNFs (RR: 0.72, 95% CI, 0.60-0.87)] was a predictor of poor immune response compared to no immunosuppressive therapy., Conclusion: Patients with IBD have a poor serological response after HBV vaccination. HBV screening and vaccination should preferably be done before starting the immunosuppressive drugs., (© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Aims: This study aims to assess the trend of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-attributable liver cancer as well as the impact of HBV vaccine on it., Methods: We retrieved data from Global Burden Disease study to estimate trends of HBV-attributable liver cancer by region and age from 1990 to 2017 and HBV vaccine data from World Health Organization to assess its impact on these trends for children (0-14 years), adolescents and young adults (15-29 years). Change of cancer cases, age-standardized incidence rate (ASR) and estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) were used to quantify the trends of HBV-attributable liver cancer., Results: In this study, reduction in HBV-attributable cancer incident cases was found among children (from 2080 to 1430), adolescents and young adults (from 10 890 to 9090). In terms of ASR, overall reduction was observed globally by an average of -0.45% (95% CI: -0.62 to -0.29) per year in the same period. The highest reduction in ASR was found in adolescents and young adults with EAPC of -3.02 (95% CI: -3.57 to -2.46). Although the ASR has decreased from all the five regions with universal HBV immunization programme, it has increased in the region without universal vaccination and the highest increase was found among children with EAPC of 1.97 (95% CI: 1.71-2.23)., Conclusion: Significant reduction in HBV-attributable liver cancer among children was mainly because of the universal HBV vaccination. However, the increasing trend of HBV-attributable liver cancer in region without universal HBV vaccination suggested the necessity of introducing universal immunization., (© 2021 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Per the well‐known resistance of hepatitis B virus to nucleoside/nucleotide analogs, alternative treatment options with higher resistance barriers have been approved for use in both treatment‐naïve and lamivudine‐resistant hepatitis B virus infections. This phase I study was conducted in adults with normal and impaired renal function to evaluate the effect of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics of besifovir, a prodrug of an acyclic nucleotide phosphonate, that is mainly cleared via renal excretion. An open‐label, single‐dose parallel‐group clinical study was conducted in subjects with normal renal function and mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment. Subjects received a single oral dose of besifovir dipivoxil 150 mg, and serial blood and urine samples were collected for up to 72 hours after dosing to assess the pharmacokinetic characteristics of besifovir. The extent of plasma exposure of besifovir, detected as its major and active metabolites, LB80331 and LB80317, respectively, increased with worsening renal function. Compared to the subjects with normal renal function, the mean areas under the concentration‐time curves of LB80331 increased by 1.5‐, 2.5‐, and 4.5‐fold in subjects with mild, moderate, and severe impairment, respectively. LB80317 showed a 1.8‐, 3.2‐, and 6.2‐fold increase in subjects with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment compared to those with normal function. The ratios of LB80331 renal clearance and the average estimated glomerular filtration rate of each renal impairment group with respect to the normal group were similar. The increase in plasma exposure and decrease in renal clearance suggest the need to adjust dosage regimens in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis B is a major public health concern as one third of the world's population is infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV). The risk of HBV infection remains primarily through percutaneous or mucosal contact with infected blood or body fluids. Aim: To update the society on hepatitis B immunization strategies and its associated factors. Materials and Methods: The review paper utilized different search engines such as Pubmed Central, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and so on to conduct this review paper. Results: Improving immunity through general vaccination recommendations has reduced the number of chronic hepatitis B cases among children and adolescents, but an influx of infections from endemic countries has increased the number of chronically infected adults. This is due to immigration from endemic countries to Hepatitis less burden areas like developed countries. Introduction of infant immunization programs in some countries has reportedly reduced the prevalence of HBV infection and reduced the incidence of liver cancer in children and young adults. Conclusion: While hepatitis B vaccination coverage is low, a significant number of people are not adhering to full hepatitis B vaccination posing a potential hazard to health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods and Materials Results Conclusion Lookback investigations are conducted by blood services when a risk of transmission of infection from a donor to a recipient has been identified. They involve tracing transfusion recipients and offering them testing for the relevant infectious agent. Results are relayed to the recipient to provide reassurance that there has been no transmission or to ensure appropriate treatment and care if required, and blood services are able to learn lessons from the planning, delivery, and outcomes of the investigation.A national lookback exercise was conducted in Scotland following the introduction of a test to identify occult hepatitis B infection, as recommended by the UK Advisory Committee for the Safety of Blood, Tissues and Organs (SaBTO) in 2021.This paper outlines the development and delivery of a national lookback program. It discusses the logistical, economic, ethical, regulatory, and scientific issues that were considered during the planning and delivery of the lookback exercise.Development and delivery of a national lookback required robust governance, engagement of all relevant stakeholders and a shared understanding of aims, effective communication, systems, resources, limitations, and project management. Outcomes included a high testing uptake, low levels of reported anxiety, and a comprehensive data set.Key aspects for delivery of a successful large‐scale lookback program include a patient‐centered approach, clear and accessible communication, and whole‐systems multiagency collaboration. Major challenges include stakeholder engagement and capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a significant public health issue in China. Understanding factors associated with chronic HBV is important to enable targeted screening and education and to improve early diagnosis and prevention of disease progression. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to identify and describe correlates of chronic HBV among Chinese adults. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE and grey literature up to 25 June 2020. Eligible papers included observational studies in adults of the general population in China that reported factors associated with chronic HBV, measured by Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Meta‐analysis was performed using fixed‐effect models of HBsAg prevalence among factors, and of adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for chronic HBV associated with each factor. Overall 39 articles were included, covering 22 factors, including a range of sociodemographic, behavioural and medical factors. In meta‐analysis of eligible studies, a range of factors were significantly associated with higher HBsAg prevalence, including middle age, male sex, being married, rural residence, lower education, smoking, having a HBsAg positive household contact, family history of HBV, history of surgery or blood transfusion. The adjusted ORs varied, from 1.11 (95% CI 1.05–1.18) for smoking to 5.13 (95% CI 4.99–5.26) for having a HBsAg positive household contact. In Chinese adults, a range of factors are associated with chronic HBV infection, which may help inform targeted screening in the general population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a global health challenge. Despite the availability of effective preventive vaccines, millions of people are at risk of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Current drug therapies inhibit viral replication, slow the progression of liver fibrosis and reduce infectivity, but they rarely remove the covalently sealed circular DNA (cccDNA) of the virus that causes HBV persistence. Alternative treatment strategies, including those based on CRISPR/cas9 knockout virus gene, can effectively inhibit HBV replication, so it has a good prospect. During chronic infection, some virus gene knockouts based on CRISPR/cas9 may even lead to cccDNA inactivation. This paper reviews the progress of different HBV CRISPR/cas9, vectors for delivering to the liver, and the current situation of preclinical and clinical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The most reported viral co‐infections in leprosy are human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), human T‐cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and SARS‐CoV‐2. In co‐infections, the burden of an agent can be increased or decreased by the presence of others. To address this issue, we need to fully understand their prevalence, risk factors, immunology, clinical manifestations, and treatment. The purpose of this scoping review is to describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of the most reported viral co‐infections in leprosy to inform clinicians and guide future research. Methods: The authors conducted a literature search of five databases for articles on each of the aforementioned co‐infections published prior to October 2022. Two independent reviewers conducted the selection process and identified 53 papers meeting the study inclusion criteria. The data extraction process and evidence synthesis were conducted by one reviewer and double‐checked by a second one, consistent with best practice recommendations for scoping reviews. Results: For all assessed viruses, most studies reported prevalence rates in leprosy patients higher than the general population. Studies found that HTLV, HBV, and HCV chronic infections were highest in multibacillary leprosy, whereas HIV was mostly found in paucibacillary leprosy, and SARS‐Cov‐2 affected leprosy subtypes equally. Overall, co‐infections were also associated with higher rates of leprosy reactions, except for COVID‐19. Forty‐six percent of the studies discussed issues related to treatment, which led to favorable outcomes for the most part. Conclusions: This review summarizes the existing literature on viral co‐infections in leprosy patients, generating valuable insights and recommending areas for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an emerging technology for artificial intelligence‐aided medical diagnosis, deep learning combined with Raman spectroscopy has great potential. The technology still has some problems in the actual medical diagnosis research process. The differences in spectrometers, experimental conditions, and experimental operations can result in non‐uniform and universally applicable data standards, which in turn lead to low data utilization. At the same time, it is still necessary to retrain the models when building diagnostic models for different diseases, which is time‐consuming and laborious. In this paper, a more complete transfer learning model for multiple types of serum Raman spectra is established for the first time, and a decision fusion strategy is applied to this diagnostic model. The Raman spectral data of serum from hepatitis B patients/control group, serum from abnormal thyroid function patients/control group, and serum from glioma patients/control group were selected as the source domains, and the Raman spectral data of tissue from hepatitis C patients/control group, serum from esophageal cancer patients/control group, and tissue from cervical cancer and cervical inflammation (patients/control) group were selected as the target domains. Three deep neural network models, ResNet, GoogLeNet, and CNN‐LSTM were trained in the source domain data for disease diagnosis, and the trained models were transfer to the target domain. The model is fine‐tuned by freezing different layers and then combined with logistic regression algorithms to construct a decision fusion model, which further improves the model effect. The results show that the proposed method can effectively improve the accuracy of transfer learning models. At the same time, this experiment extends the application of transfer learning in Raman spectroscopy and demonstrates that unrelated and scale‐different Raman datasets are still intrinsically connected, which also lays the foundation for us to build more stable and data‐inclusive spectral transfer learning fusion models in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Early diagnosis is key to achieving the goal of eliminating transmission of HIV and hepatitis B and C. We assessed the uptake, acceptability and interpretability of self‐testing using a 3‐in‐1 rapid diagnostic test (RDT) in facility‐based services. Methods: Stand‐alone testing services were provided free of charge to consenting individuals aged ≥15 years in five facilities in northern Thailand. Clients were invited to choose between self‐testing by fingerprick or venepuncture by a healthcare worker (HCW). In each facility, several clients could simultaneously self‐test in separate private areas using TriQuik™ (Genlantis, San Diego, CA, USA), a single immunochromatographic cassette detecting HIV‐1/2 antibody, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis C antibody (HCAb). An interactive program on a tablet computer was developed to collect socio‐demographic, behavioural and satisfaction data and provide information to guide the self‐test process, including video instructions, results interpretation and a picture of the cassette for immediate remote review by the HCW. When the HCW interpreted an HIV self‐test as positive, the HCW collected blood by venepuncture for immediate confirmation. Results: Between October 2020 and April 2022, 4119 clients presented for testing for the first time as part of the project. Of them, 3462 (84.0%) opted for self‐testing. Among self‐testers, 1801 (52.0%) were born female, the median age was 27 years (interquartile range, 22–36), 661 (19.1%) belonged to at least one key population and 2124 (61.4%) had never been tested for HIV; 3329 (99.8% of those who answered) reported being "very satisfied" or "satisfied" with the testing process. The proportions of test results interpreted as positive by self‐testers among those interpreted as positive by HCWs were 95% for HIV‐1/2 antibody, 95% for HBsAg and 78% for HCAb. Conclusions: These proportions were higher than those observed in a previous study evaluating another 3‐in‐1 RDT for HIV, HBsAg and HCAb, possibly due to the use of video instructions instead of paper‐based instructions, lower prevalence and co‐infection rates, or lower percentages of clients with low education level. Multiplex self‐testing simplified and streamlined the service delivery process and was well accepted. HCW assistance proved to be essential in a limited number of cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Reports of patients with hepatitis B have highlighted associations between polymorphisms in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DPB1, CXCL13, and CXCR5 genes and disease pathology. Owing to its potential to contribute to the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic methods, we aimed to establish a reliable host genome analysis technique that can be used in countries with inadequate infrastructure. Method: We compared multiple commercially available kits for dried blood spot (DBS)‐based sample collection to develop a basic DBS‐based host genome analysis technique. We then collected blood samples from Cambodian patients with hepatitis B and performed single‐nucleotide polymorphism genotyping and HLA allele typing by the DBS system. Result: We were able to perform single‐nucleotide polymorphism genotyping and HLA allele typing with host DNA samples obtained using a combination of a HemaSpot™ filter paper‐based device and a SMITEST® EX‐R&D DNA extraction kit. The accuracy of genotyping using samples obtained by this method was not inferior to one using samples obtained by venipuncture. In the Cambodian population, significant associations of HLA‐DPB1*04:01 with protection against chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, and HLA‐DPB1*05:01 and HLA‐DPB1*13:01 with susceptibility to chronic HBV infection were identified. Conclusion: Based on the DBS system, we clarified the associations of HLA‐DPB1 alleles with chronic HBV infection in the Cambodian population for the first time. Because the DBS is a low‐cost, durable, transportable, and easy‐to‐handle modality, genetic analysis based on the DBS system is a feasible strategy for obtaining a deeper understanding of HBV epidemiology, especially in middle‐ or low‐income countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we formulate a generalized hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection model with two modes of infection transmission and adaptive immunity and investigate its dynamical properties. Both the virus‐to‐cell and cell‐to‐cell infection transmissions are modeled by general functions which satisfy some biologically motivated assumptions. Furthermore, the model incorporates three distributed time delays for the production of active infected hepatocytes, mature capsids, and virions. The well‐posedness of the proposed model is established by showing the non‐negativity and boundedness of solutions. Five equilibria of the model are identified in terms of five threshold parameters R0,R1,R2,R3$$ {R}_0,{R}_1,{R}_2,{R}_3 $$, and R4$$ {R}_4 $$. Further, the global stability analysis of each equilibrium under certain conditions is carried out by employing suitable Lyapunov function and LaSalle's invariance principle. Finally, we present an example with numerical simulations to illustrate the applicability of our study. Nonetheless, the results obtained in this study are valid for a wide class of HBV infection models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthcare data analysis is a primary concern. It leads to multiple levels of knowledge extraction for decision support systems because of the presence of uncertainties. Therefore, this paper integrates the rough set and artificial fish swarm optimization to develop a decision support system that handles uncertainties present in an information system. In the initial stage, the artificial fish swarm—the rough set procedure is implemented in finding vital features. Further, in the second phase, the rough set uses these vital features to develop a decision support system. The above model is analyzed over hepatitis B disease. The proposed model attains an accuracy of 92.4%. Further, the proposed model is compared with the classical rough set, decision tree, and artificial fish swarm‐decision tree model. The accuracy obtained is 88.9%, 83.3%, and 90.8%, respectively. The proposed model has a greater accuracy of 3.5% than the rough set model and has a greater accuracy of 9.1% than the decision tree model. Simultaneously, the proposed model has 1.6% greater accuracy than the artificial fish swarm‐decision tree model. Therefore, it is believed that the projected decision support system may be used to prevent and detect hepatitis B diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary hepatic mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma (MALToma) is a very rare disease and the diagnosis is often only made after histologic examination. To date, there is no consensus on its treatment modalities. In this paper, we report a case of primary hepatic MALToma and literature review of this rare disease. Our patient was a 72‐year‐old woman who presented with elevated alkaline phosphatase level. She was neither a hepatitis B nor C carrier. The alpha‐fetoprotein level was normal. Ultrasound of the abdomen found two hypoechoic liver lesions. Triphasic contrast computed tomography of the liver showed two arterial enhancing lesions with portovenous and delayed washout at segment 2 (1.7 cm) and segment 4b (2.5 cm), respectively. Fluorodeoxyglucose‐positron emission tomography showed two hypermetabolic foci in segments 2 and 4b of the liver, respectively, compatible with hepatocellular carcinoma. There was diffuse fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in the stomach. Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD) was performed, which showed diffuse gastritis only. Laparoscopic left hepatectomy was performed for the suspected hepatocellular carcinoma. Histological examination demonstrated the diagnosis of MALToma. Further bone marrow trephine did not show any bone marrow involvement by the lymphoma. The patient refused adjuvant chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Ogawa et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17107 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17693. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Kayes et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17040 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Lee et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17532 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Lim et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16788 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16886 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Response to comments on: The role of caesarean section and nonbreastfeeding in preventing mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B virus in HBsAg- and HBeAg-positive mothers: results from a prospective cohort study and a meta-analysis Cesarean section reduces perinatal transmission of hepatitis B virus infection from hepatitis B surface antigen-positive women to their infants. Keywords: delivery mode; hepatitis B virus; mother-to-infant transmission EN delivery mode hepatitis B virus mother-to-infant transmission 235 236 2 02/22/22 20220301 NES 220301 We thank Yang et.al. for their interest and critical comments on our recent study.1 We are happy to respond to the following points. [Extracted from the article]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Kang et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17862 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we develop a diffusive and delayed hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection model, which incorporates both virus‐to‐cell and cell‐to‐cell transmissions along with cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) immune response. Two threshold parameters ℜ0$$ {\mathfrak{\Re}}_0 $$ (basic reproduction number) and ℜ1$$ {\mathfrak{\Re}}_1 $$ (immune response reproduction number) are defined, which determine the dynamic behavior of the model. Employing the approach of Lyapunov functionals, we show that the infection‐free steady state is globally asymptotically stable when ℜ0≤1$$ {\mathfrak{\Re}}_0\le 1 $$; the immune‐free infected steady state is globally asymptotically stable when ℜ1≤1<ℜ0$$ {\mathfrak{\Re}}_1\le 1<{\mathfrak{\Re}}_0 $$; and the immune‐present steady state is globally asymptotically stable when ℜ0>1,ℜ1>1$$ {\mathfrak{\Re}}_0>1,{\mathfrak{\Re}}_1>1 $$, and φ(I)=I$$ \varphi (I)=I $$. We perform the sensitivity and uncertainly analysis on ℜ0$$ {\mathfrak{\Re}}_0 $$ with respect to parameters and find that the most important parameter that drives the HBV infection is the mortality of HBV DNA capsids. Moreover, the theoretical results are supported with numerical simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Kim et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16706 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Wong et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17120 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17213 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Wong et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17120 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17271 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐to‐Golgi trafficking is an essential and highly conserved cellular process. The coat protein complex‐II (COPII) arm of the trafficking machinery incorporates a wide array of cargo proteins into vesicles through direct or indirect interactions with Sec24, the principal subunit of the COPII coat. Approximately one‐third of all mammalian proteins rely on the COPII‐mediated secretory pathway for membrane insertion or secretion. There are four mammalian Sec24 paralogs and three yeast Sec24 paralogs with emerging evidence of paralog‐specific cargo interaction motifs. Furthermore, individual paralogs also differ in their affinity for a subset of sorting motifs present on cargo proteins. As with many aspects of protein trafficking, we lack a systematic and thorough understanding of the interaction of Sec24 with cargoes. This systematic review focuses on the current knowledge of cargo binding to both yeast and mammalian Sec24 paralogs and their ER export motifs. The analyses show that Sec24 paralog specificity of cargo (and cargo receptors) range from exclusive paralog dependence or preference to partial redundancy. We also discuss how the Sec24 secretion system is hijacked by viral (eg, VSV‐G, Hepatitis B envelope protein) and bacterial (eg, the enteropathogenic Escherichia coli type III secretion system effector NleA/EspI) pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent primary malignant liver tumor and typically develops in the context of chronic liver disease, such as liver cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis B virus infection. Ultrasound evaluation, CT scan, and MRI are used to detect HCC. α‐fetoprotein (AFP) is a common marker used to detect HCC in the non‐pregnant population, which notoriously increases in pregnant women in relation to gestational age. Treatment is driven by the extent of the disease and the severity of underlying liver disease. Pregnancy may represent an obstacle to diagnosis and appropriate treatment of HCC. The aim of this descriptive systematic review was to describe the clinical features and maternal and neonatal outcomes of HCC in pregnancy. Material and methods: We performed a systematic review of the literature about HCC diagnosed in pregnancy and the postpartum period, with signs or symptoms arising in pregnancy. We included case reports and case series describing the clinical features of women diagnosed with HCC, fibrolamellar variant of HCC, and mixed HCC and cholangiocarcinoma during pregnancy or the postpartum period (with onset of symptoms during pregnancy), from inception to March 2023. The study protocol was registered with the PROSPERO database (Registration number: ID CRD42021275584). Results: We identified 180 records. The articles included in this systematic review were 47 case reports and 5 case series, for a total of 63 pregnancies. The two most frequent predisposing conditions were hepatitis B virus infection (30/63; 47%) and liver cirrhosis (14/63; 22%). Ultrasound evaluation was the most used technique to detect HCC. AFP was higher than normal in 28/46 patients tested (61%). Surgical treatment was the most used therapy, both during pregnancy and after delivery. Twenty‐six patients (26/63; 42%) died within 6 months of diagnosis. Survival >24 months was 9% (4/46) in symptomatic and 29% (5/17) in asymptomatic women. No patient with cirrhotic liver survived more than 12 months. Thirty‐eight newborns were alive at 28 days of age (38/63; 61%). Conclusions: Hepatocellular carcinoma in pregnancy is associated with a high risk of maternal and neonatal mortality. Diagnosis in asymptomatic high‐risk women or following abnormal maternal serum AFP screening is associated with better maternal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Kayes et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17040 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Lim et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17052 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improved survival for patients diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia in the era of chemo-immunotherapy: a Danish population-based study of 10455 patients. In their paper, Walewska et al.7 report on the update of the guidelines for the management of CLL by the British Society of Haematology (BSH). Keywords: guidelines; chronic lymphocytic leukaemia; chemo-immunotherapy EN guidelines chronic lymphocytic leukaemia chemo-immunotherapy 513 514 2 05/31/22 20220601 NES 220601 The survival of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) has been constantly improving over the years, as documented by population-based studies, mainly including patients treated with chemo-immunotherapy.1-3 During the last decade, the introduction of Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKi), targeting the B-cell receptor pathway, and of BCL2 inhibitors (BCL2i), targeting the apoptotic pathway, have led to major advances in CLL treatment and will further improve CLL outcomes.4-6 In this rapidly evolving therapeutic landscape, the frequent update of clinical guidelines allows us to constantly standardise patient management in clinical practice and offers an important tool for improving patient outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Wu et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17667 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17679 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Wu et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17667 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17685 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Ogawa et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17107 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17668 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Lim et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16788 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16854 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Their results of cohort study showed that mothers with higher HBV DNA levels (>10 SP 8 sp IU/ml) were associated with an increased risk of MTCT of hepatitis B virus infection, with relative risk ( I RR i ) and corresponding 95% confidence interval(95% I CI i ) being equal to 3.03 (1.41-6.52). Keywords: CS; ECS; HBV; MTCT EN CS ECS HBV MTCT 233 234 2 02/22/22 20220301 NES 220301 Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infects nearly 250 million people, resulting in approximately one million deaths annually and becomes a public health issue.1 Pan YC et al. conducted a prospective study and meta-analysis to explore the effect of caesarean section (CS) and nonbreastfeeding on mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of hepatitis B virus.2 A total of 852 pregnant women who were positive for both the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and the hapatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) were recruited from multiple medical centres from August 2009 to June 2015. Comments on: The role of caesarean section and nonbreastfeeding in preventing mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B virus in HBsAg- and HBeAg-positive mothers: Results from a prospective cohort study and a meta-analysis. [Extracted from the article]

To explore this possibility, it will be important to confirm whether miR-96-5p can inhibit hepatocellular carcinoma cell growth in vivo. Judging from the number of papers on cancer and microRNAs, including hepatocellular carcinoma, is a field in which many researchers are interested, and the study by Matasui et al.6 is timely in this respect. A similar search using the terms "microRNA" and "hepatocellular carcinoma" found 5642 articles published from 2006 to 2021 (Figure 1). [Extracted from the article]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Choi et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17819 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17851 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Choi et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17819 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17875 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LINKED CONTENT: This article is linked to Estes et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15673 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The direct electrochemistry of hepatitis B virus containing the covalently closed circular DNA (HBV cccDNA) is realized at pretreated glassy carbon electrode (PGCE). It is essential that the direct electron transfer of guanine (G) and adenine (A) on HBV cccDNA strand is captured by microwave irradiation to melt cccDNA into ssDNA. The irreversible adsorption and diffusion controlled processes of G and A are revealed by cyclic voltammetry with participating 2 protons and 2 electrons respectively. In addition, we found that there are two oxidation peaks of G and A in whole blood containing HBV. Nevertheless, there is only one oxidation peak of G in whole blood of normal people. According to this difference of oxidation peaks in whole blood sample, it can be used screen quickly HBV infection or carriers in clinic and large area of blood donors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A candidate molecule 1‐(3‐(1H‐imidazol‐1‐yl) propyl)‐3‐(2,4‐difluorophenyl) thiourea (coded as 'IR‐415') exhibiting excellent antiviral efficacy in cell culture model was identified after a high‐throughput screening of the Maybridge library.[7] Twenty derivatives of IR‐415 hereafter referred to as DSA‐00 were synthesized and evaluated for their antiviral activity against hepatitis B virus (HBV) in cell culture. The HBV‐expressing HepG2.2.15 cells or HBV‐permissive HepG2‐hNTCP‐C4 cells were treated with DSA‐00 or its new derivatives. A significant and improved inhibition in viral DNA replication and secretion of hepatitis B surface antigen were observed in the presence two derivatives, viz., 1‐(2,4‐Difluoro‐phenyl)‐3‐(4‐imidazol‐1‐yl‐butyl)‐thiourea and 1‐(3,5‐Difluoro‐phenyl)‐3‐(4‐imidazol‐1‐yl‐butyl)‐thiourea. Consistent with these antiviral properties, our molecular docking studies predicted a high affinity interaction of these derivatives with HBx protein. Importantly, DSA‐00 and its derivatives exhibited minimal toxicity at higher concentrations. Thus, these derivatives have the potential to be developed as new therapeutics for mono or combination therapy for the management of HBV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most clinic attenders with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) are serum HBeAg‐negative, and a minority will require suppressive antiviral treatment. Expert guidelines propose schedules for the monitoring of untreated patients, but the recommended frequency of patient review does not reflect recognised demographic determinants of HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis. Also, the impact of patient ethnicity on risk has not been defined. The aim of our study was to determine the rates and determinants of antiviral treatment initiation in a large multi‐ethnic cohort of CHB patients attending a single centre. We undertook a retrospective study using entirely electronic sources of patient information. Treatment initiation dates were identified from electronic pharmacy records. Crude and time‐dependent statistical analyses were undertaken to identify rate and risk factors for treatment initiation. Treatment was initiated for 232/1256 (18.5%) patients with rates of 23.2% and 33.2% at 5 and 10 years. An increased risk of treatment was associated with male sex (RR 1.803), older age at presentation (RR 1.027 per year increase) and with non‐Black ethnicity (RR 1.654). Patient sex, baseline age and ethnicity also determined risk for treatment in the subset of patients with normal serum ALT and low HBV DNA at baseline, though overall treatment rate in this group was low (only 2% per annum). Thus, patient demographics permit risk stratification for treatment initiation and could determine to a significant extent the frequency of review required for untreated HBeAg‐negative patients. Black ethnicity is associated with a significant reduction in risk of treatment initiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A small percentage of couples who regularly donated blood in China tested positive for HBsAg. Although it is well known that blood donors can acquire hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection from a chronically infected sexual partner, the prevalence of occult hepatitis B infections (OBIs) among blood donations from partners of HBV‐infected chronically infected spouses and the risk to blood safety remain poorly understood. Among 212 763 blood donors, 54 pairs of couples (108 donations) were enrolled because one partner tested positive for HBsAg. Several molecular and serological examinations were conducted. The origin of HBV transmission between sexual partners was investigated further. Also evaluated was the potential risk of HBV infection with OBIs. We identified 10 (10/54, 18.6%) sexual partners of chronically infected HBV donors who were positive for HBV DNA, including five samples (9.3%) with OBIs, of which 3 (3/54, 5.6%, 1 in 70 921 donations) passed the routine blood screening tests. Seven of the 10 HBV‐DNA‐positive couples contracted the virus possibly through sexual or close contact. Among infected couples, immune escape mutations were observed. A high prevalence of OBIs was found among the partners of chronically infected HBV blood donors, posing a potential threat to blood safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generalised pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a rare and severe form of pustular psoriasis. It is defined by persisting or relapsing macroscopically visible sterile primary pustules occurring on non‐acral skin and not within psoriasis plaques. Due to its rarity, there is a lack of randomised controlled trials on GPP and its associated gastrointestinal (GI) and liver disorders. In this article, we present a review of the GI and hepatic disorders associated with GPP. GPP is known to be associated with extracutaneous manifestations such as neutrophilic cholangitis. Abnormal liver function tests are reported in up to 90% of patients with GPP upon diagnosis. Less commonly, pancreatitis and gastrointestinal bleeding have been attributed to GPP. While a psoriasis registry with 7.5% prevalence of pustular psoriasis reported an association with viral hepatitis B and C, the true relationship remains to be elucidated as hepatitis B is endemic in Asia where GPP prevalence is higher. Common genetic mutations between GPP and conditions such as hepatocellular carcinoma and inflammatory bowel disease have been identified, explaining their possible associations and providing answers to potential therapeutic options for these conditions. A lack of recognition of these association may result in unnecessary withdrawal of efficacious and definitive drugs for the treatment of GPP. Understanding the characteristics of the associated GI and hepatic disorders will have important implications for targeting the appropriate therapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Hepatitis B is a leading cause of chronic liver disease and subsequent liver transplantation. This is a vaccine‐preventable illness. Health workers continue to be at risk for blood‐borne pathogens due to occupational exposures. The overall goals of our study were to determine the prevalence of exposure to needle sticks and sharp‐related injuries (NSSI) and hepatitis B vaccination status among healthcare workers (HCWs) of Nepalgunj Medical College Teaching Hospital (NGMCTH), Kohalpur, Banke, Nepal. Methods: A descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted among HCWs at the NGMCTH following ethics approval by the NGMCTH Ethics Review Committee. A pretested structured questionnaire was used to compile the data. Data was collected from September 15, 2021 to September 14, 2022. Collected data entered in Microsoft Excel and analyzed using statistical package for social sciences version 22. Analyzed data were presented using simple descriptive statistics with appropriate figures and tables. Results: A total of 304 among 506 HCWs (60.1%) participated in the survey were exposed to Needle sticks. Nine of whom (3.7%) were injured substantially (more than 10 times). Among nursing students, 21.3% had experience with NSSI. 71.7% of HCWs had received at least one dose of the hepatitis B vaccine, of whom 61.9% (44.5% of total HCWs) had received three doses. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that more than two‐quarters of HCWs were exposed to NSSI. Despite being at risk, vaccination status was still low, and less than half only received three complete doses. Precaution should be taken when working with instrumentation and procedures. Hepatitis B immunization programs for HCWs should be delivered at no cost with 100% coverage and protection. Raising awareness about hepatitis B infection and immunization remains crucial to primary prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since time immemorial human beings have constantly been fighting against viral infections. The ongoing and devastating coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic represents one of the most severe and most significant public health emergencies in human history, highlighting an urgent need to develop broad‐spectrum antiviral agents. Salicylamide (2‐hydroxybenzamide) derivatives, represented by niclosamide and nitazoxanide, inhibit the replication of a broad range of RNA and DNA viruses such as flavivirus, influenza A virus, and coronavirus. Moreover, nitazoxanide was effective in clinical trials against different viral infections including diarrhea caused by rotavirus and norovirus, uncomplicated influenza A and B, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. In this review, we summarize the broad antiviral activities of salicylamide derivatives, the clinical progress, and the potential targets or mechanisms against different viral infections and highlight their therapeutic potential in combating the circulating and emerging viral infections in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic hepatitis B (HBV) infection is a disease that imposes a considerable financial burden on patients and can lead to sleep disorders (SDs), resulting in a serious deterioration to patient quality of life. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of SDs in patients with HBV and the correlated sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. A total of 747 patients with chronic HBV infection were recruited. All patients completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder‐7 scale, Social Support Rating Scale, Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF‐36), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). The total PSQI score of patients with each type of chronic HBV infection was significantly higher compared to healthy Chinese adults (p <.05). The incidence of SDs in HBV carriers and patients with mild HBV, moderate HBV, severe HBV, liver failure, compensated cirrhosis, and decompensated liver cirrhosis was 25%, 26%, 32%, 47%, 56%, 31%, and 49%, respectively. The incidence of SDs in all patients with chronic HBV infection was 30%. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that the course of disease, aspartate aminotransferase levels, PHQ‐9 scores, and VAS scores were independent risk factors for SDs, while the total SF‐36 score was a protective factor for SDs (all p <.05). In conclusion, the prevalence of SDs was significantly higher in patients with chronic hepatitis B compared to healthy subjects. The independent risk factors for SDs included disease duration, aspartate aminotransferase levels, depression, and fatigue. Clinicians should pay more attention to SDs in patients with chronic HBV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing number of options for the treatment of moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis, clinicians need guidance on a practical approach to selecting a systemic agent for specific patient populations. We convened an expert panel consisting of 12 members to conduct a literature review and summarize relevant data related to six scenarios of clinical interest: comorbid asthma, ocular surface disease, history of cancer, past and ongoing infections of interest (including herpes simplex virus, herpes zoster, hepatitis B, and tuberculosis), pregnancy and lactation, and the elderly. We performed a literature search and examined each clinical scenario with respect to three major categories of available systemic agents: traditional systemics (azathioprine, cyclosporine A, methotrexate, and mycophenolate mofetil), Janus kinase inhibitors (abrocitinib, baricitinib, and upadacitinib), and biologics (dupilumab, lebrikizumab, and tralokinumab). The expert panel and steering committee met virtually to review the data and discuss the drafted consensus statements. A modified Delphi process was used to arrive at a set of final consensus statements related to the systemic treatment of AD in these specific patient populations. To provide practical guidance on the choice of systemic therapy for atopic dermatitis in these six topics of clinical interest, 25 expert consensus statements and a summary of the supporting data are presented herein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Global data on the treatment rate with direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) for chronic hepatitis C (CHC) are sparse. We aimed to evaluate the CHC treatment rate and barriers to treatment in the DAA era. Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane from inception to 5 August 2021, for relevant articles. Patients treated with DAAs without interferon (IFN) therapy were categorized as IFN‐free DAAs. Patients receiving DAA with IFN or unclear IFN status were categorized as DAA/IFN. Results: We identified and analysed data from 146 studies (1 760 352 CHC patients). DAA/IFN treatment rate was 16.0% (95% CI: 9.9–23.3, 49 studies, 886 535 patients). IFN‐free DAA treatment rate was 52.3% (95% CI: 46.2–58.4, 123 studies, 1 276 754 patients): 45.4% in North America, 64.2% in South America (1 study), 90.4% in Africa (most data from Egypt), 54.4% in Europe, 60.7% in Australia and 60.5% in Asia, (p <.0001); 49% with hepatitis B co‐infection and 32.3% with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Treatment was not a priority in 22.8% of patients in Europe and 16.7% in Australia, compared to only 4.8% in North America and 2.1% in Asia (p <.0001). Poor adherence to clinical follow‐up was the cause of no treatment in 74.7% of patients in Australia, 37.0% in North America, 7.9% in Europe and 14.3% in Asia (p <.0001). Conclusion: Though a marked improvement from IFN/DAA, the treatment rate with IFN‐free DAA remains suboptimal (52.3% overall, 32.3% in HCC patients). Non‐adherence to clinical follow‐up and lack of disease awareness were treatment barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Indefinite, long‐term administration of hepatitis B immunoglobulins (HBIg), together with a third generation nucleos(t)ide analog (NA), is the currently recommended prophylactic strategy to prevent viral recurrence after liver transplantation (LT) for Hepatitis Delta virus (HDV)/Hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related disease. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the safety and long‐term clinical and virological outcomes of a consecutive cohort of 16 patients (10 males, median age 64.5, range 41–75) transplanted for HDV/HBV‐related cirrhosis at our Institution, who discontinued HBIg after a median of 24.5 months (range 15–116) after transplant. All patients continued prophylaxis with same NA used before LT. Recurrence of HDV/HBV infection was defined as reappearance of serum HDV‐RNA with detectable serum HBsAg and/or HBV‐DNA. Results: The median follow‐up after LT was 138 months (range 73–316) and 110 months (range 52–200) after HBIg withdrawal. All patients were HBsAg‐positive, HBV‐DNA negative, and anti‐HDV positive at the time of LT and without coinfections with HCV or HIV. Patients were followed with biochemical and virological tests every 3–6 months after HBIg withdrawal. No recurrences of HDV/HBV infection or disease were observed during monoprophylaxis with NA. In addition, eight patients (50%) spontaneously developed anti‐HBs titers above 10 IU/L at a median of 74 months (range 58–140) following HBIG discontinuation. Conclusions: HBIg withdrawal after LT is a safe and efficacious strategy in patients transplanted for HDV/HBV disease and is frequently associated with the spontaneous development of serological immunity against HBV. These data call for a revision of current prophylactic recommendations in this setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]