bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-drought conditions and hydraulic dysfunction determine tree resilience and mortality across Mediterranean Aleppo pine (Pinus halepensis) populations after an extreme drought event
Authors: Morcillo L , Muñoz-Rengifo J C , Torres-Ruiz J M , Delzon S , Moutahir H , Vilagrosa A
Published: January 2022

Drought-related tree mortality is a global phenomenon that currently affects a wide range of forests. Key functional variables on plant hydraulics, carbon economy, growth and allocation have been identified and play a role in tree drought responses. However, tree mortality thresholds based on such variables are difficult to identify, especially under field conditions. We studied several Aleppo pine populations differently affected by an extreme drought event in 2014, with mortality rates ranging from no mortality to 90% in the most severely affected population. We hypothesized that mortality is linked with high levels of xylem embolism, i.e., hydraulic dysfunction, which would also lead to lower tree resistance to drought in subsequent years. Despite not finding any differences among populations in the vulnerability curves to xylem embolism, there were large differences in the hydraulic safety margin (HSM) and the hydraulic dysfunction level. High mortality rates were associated with a negative HSM when xylem embolism reached values over 60%. We also found forest weakening and post-drought mortality related to a low hydraulic water transport capacity, reduced plant growth, low carbohydrate contents and high pest infestation rates. Our results highlight the importance of drought severity and the hydraulic dysfunction level on pine mortality, as well as post-drought conditions during recovery processes.
Temperature acclimation of net photosynthesis and its underlying component processes in four tropical tree species
Authors: Wittemann Maria , Andersson Mats X , Ntirugulirwa Bonaventure , Tarvainen Lasse , Wallin Göran , Uddling Johan
Published: January 2022

The effect of temperature change on leaf physiology has been extensively studied in temperate trees and to some extent in boreal and tropical tree species. While increased temperature typically stimulates leaf CO2 assimilation and tree growth in high-altitude ecosystems, tropical species are often negatively affected. These trees may operate close to their temperature optima and have a limited thermal acclimation capacity due to low seasonal and historical variation in temperature. To test this hypothesis, we studied the extent to which the temperature sensitivities of leaf photosynthesis and respiration acclimate to growth temperature in four common African tropical tree species. Tree seedlings native to different altitudes and therefore adapted to different growth temperatures were cultivated at three different temperatures in climate-controlled chambers. We estimated the acclimation capacity of the temperature sensitivities of light-saturated net photosynthesis, the maximum rates of Rubisco carboxylation (Vcmax) and thylakoid electron transport (J), and dark respiration. Leaf thylakoid membrane lipid composition, nitrogen content and leaf mass per area were also analyzed. Our results showed that photosynthesis in tropical tree species acclimated to higher growth temperatures, but that this was weakest in the species originating from the coolest climate. The temperature optimum of J acclimated significantly in three species and variation in J was linked to changes in the thylakoid membrane lipid composition. For Vcmax, there was only evidence of significant acclimation of optimal temperature in the lowest elevation species. Respiration acclimated to maintain homeostasis at growth temperature in all four species. Our results suggest that the lowest elevation species is better physiologically adapted to acclimate to high growth temperatures than the highest elevation species, indicating a potential shift in competitive balance and tree community composition to the disadvantage of montane tree species in a warmer world.
Improved Detection of Little Cherry Virus-2 Using a Hydrolysis Probe to Manage the Pacific Northwest Little Cherry Disease Epidemic
Authors: Shires Madalyn K. , Wright Alice A. , Harper Scott J.
Published: January 2022

Little cherry virus-2 (LChV-2) is a viral pathogen that is reaching epidemic levels in Washington State. This virus is insect vectored and has significant impacts on sweet cherry production. To aid growers in making informed management decisions, we sought to develop a diagnostic assay to better detect isolates of LChV-2 currently found in Washington, allowing more accurate estimations of disease occurrence. This study showed that there were two distinct genotypes of LChV-2 present in Washington State. This information was used to develop an up-to-date reverse transcription real-time quantitative PCR assay, which was then optimized, validated, and compared with four previously published assays of a panel of field samples. This comparison demonstrated that the newly developed assay provided greater sensitivity, accurately detecting <10 copies per reaction and could detect both LChV-2 genotypes. Finally, we examined the effect of potential inhibitors in various tissue types from cherry, finding that young leaf tissue affected sensitivity of detection less than root tissues.
In-Orchard Population Dynamics of Erwinia amylovora on Apple Flower Stigmas
Authors: Slack Suzanne M. , Schachterle Jeffery K. , Sweeney Emma M. , Kharadi Roshni R. , Peng Jingyu , Botti-Marino Megan , Bardaji Leire , Pochubay Emily A. , Sundin George W.
Published: January 2022

Populations of the fire blight pathogen Erwinia amylovora Ea110 on apple flower stigmas were tracked over the course of apple bloom in field studies conducted between 2016 and 2019. In 18 of 23 experiments, flower stigmas inoculated on the first day of opening were found to harbor large (106 to 107 cells per flower) populations of E. amylovora when assessed 3 to 5 days postinoculation. However, populations inoculated on stigmas of flowers that were already open for 3 days did not reach 106 cells per flower, and populations inoculated on stigmas of flowers that were already open for 5 days never exceeded 104 cells per flower. During this study, ≥10-fold increases in E. amylovora stigma populations in a 24-h time period (termed population surges) were observed on 34.8, 20.0, and 4.0% of possible days on 1-, 3-, and 5-day-open flowers, respectively. Population surges occurred on days with average temperatures as high as 24.5 and as low as 6.1°C. Experiments incorporating more frequent sampling during days and overnight revealed that many population surges occurred between 10:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. A Pearson’s correlation analysis of weather parameters occurring during surge events indicated that population surges were significantly associated with situations in which overnight temperatures increased or remained constant, in which wind speed decreased, and in which relative humidity increased. This study refines our knowledge of E. amylovora population dynamics and further indicates that E. amylovora is able to infect flowers during exposure to colder field temperatures than previously reported.
Ulnar Epiphysiodesis: Success of the Index Procedure
Authors: Campbell Tanner , Faulk L. Wade , Vossler Kristen , Goodrich Ezra , Lalka Andy , Sibbel Sarah E. , Sinclair Micah K.
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

Premature radial physeal closure is a relatively rare occurrence in children. When isolated growth arrest of the radius with continued ulnar growth occurs, the resulting ulnar positive deformity leads to altered wrist mechanics and pain. Timely epiphysiodesis of the distal ulna with and without ulnar shortening osteotomy can address these issues, but continued ulnar overgrowth is a possible complication. We seek to evaluate the success rate of the primary epiphysiodesis of the ulna and associated clinical outcomes.

Methods:

A chart review was conducted at 2 children’s hospitals from 2008 to 2019. Patients between the ages of 6 and 18 years old, with premature distal radius physeal closure, with or without positive ulnar variance, and >2 months follow-up were included. We evaluated the following characteristics for each patient: demographics, initial cause of premature radial physeal closure, ulnar variance, additional procedures performed during epiphysiodesis, preoperative and postoperative pain, range of motion, instability. Summary statistics were conducted and expressed as proportions, medians and means. A paired t test evaluated change in ulnar variance for those who had an ulnar shortening osteotomy performed.

Results:

Thirty-one wrists among 30 patients were identified, and the median age at the time of surgery was 12.2 years (interquartile range: 3.4). Ulnar shortening osteotomies were performed in 53.1% of cases and distal radius osteotomy in 15.6%. Bone graft was utilized in 25.8% of the epiphysiodesis procedures. There were 2 failures of primary epiphysiodesis indicating an index success rate of 93.7%. The average ulnar variance correction was 3.1 mm (95% confidence interval: 1.9, 4.4). The mean physeal time to closure was 134 days. Preoperative symptoms were resolved for 90.6% cases at final follow-up.

Conclusion:

Ulnar epiphysiodesis successfully terminates ulnar physeal growth in 93.7% of cases. Preoperative symptoms were completely resolved with a median physeal closure of just over 4 months. Ulnar variance was corrected on average by 4.1 mm when a radial or ulnar shortening osteotomy was performed at the time of epiphysiodesis.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—case series.
FROSTED BRANCH ANGIITIS ASSOCIATED WITH MIXED CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISEASE
Authors: Cui Peter Z. , Chong Elaine W. , Campbell Thomas G.
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

To present a case of frosted branch angiitis associated with an exacerbation of mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD).

Methods:

Single case report.

Results:

A 31-year-old woman presented with a flare of her long-standing MCTD after a change in her immunosuppressive medications. She developed blurred vision and floaters first in the left eye but eventually in both eyes. Fundoscopy showed patchy perivascular sheathing of tertiary branch venules surrounded by retinal hemorrhages characterized as frosted branch angiitis. The patient's MCTD symptoms and retinal vasculitis improved with continued immunosuppressive therapy. At 1-month follow-up, her visual acuity had improved to 20/20 bilaterally with complete resolution on fundoscopy.

Conclusion:

To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of frosted branch angiitis seen in association with MCTD. The improvement in the patient's visual acuity and fundoscopic findings in this case supports the role of immunosuppressive therapy to treat secondary frosted branch angiitis associated with an autoimmune condition such as MCTD. However, it is recommended that a comprehensive medical workup is performed to exclude an infective cause, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
Health Care Worker Burnout During the COVID-19 Pandemic in HIV Clinics in Guangxi, China: A Cross-sectional Analysis of Risk and Protective Factors
Authors: Qiao Shan , Sun Shufang , Tam Cheuk Chi , Li Xiaoming , Zhou Yuejiao , Shen Zhiyong
Published: January 2022

Dual epidemics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and HIV cause burnout among HIV health care workers. Guided by a socioecological framework, we investigated risk and protective factors of their burnout in Guangxi, China based on an online survey (N = 1,029) from April to May 2020. Descriptive and bivariate analyses and hierarchical regression were conducted. COVID-19–related stressors (B = 0.648 [0.482–0.816], p < .001), challenges while delivering HIV services (B = 0.236 [0.174–0.298], p < .001), and working in province/city-level institutes (B = 2.302, [0.828–3.776], p =.002) were risk factors. Protective factors were resilience (B = −0.596 [−0.687 to −0.504], p < .001), workplace social support (B = −0.410 [−0.717 to −0.044], p =.03), and institutional responsiveness to COVID-19 (B = −0.138 [−0.205 to −0.071], p < .001), respectively. Burnout-related interventions may benefit from promoting resilience, creating a supportive work environment, and strengthening institutional response to public health emergencies.
COVID-19 Vaccination and Communicable Disease Testing Services’ Integration Within a Syringe Services Program: A Program Brief
Authors: Heidari Omeid , Meyer Diane , O'Conor Katie J. , Cargill Victoria , Patch Michelle , Farley Jason E.
Published: January 2022

People who inject drugs often have a higher prevalence of risk factors associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and associated morbidity and mortality, compounded by challenges in health care access. This increased vulnerability underscores the critical need to prioritize people who inject drug in ongoing COVID-19 vaccination efforts. Co-location of syringe services, COVID-19 vaccination services, and other communicable disease testing has proved an effective model to provide necessary interventions without creating additional barriers. Here, we describe a partnership between the Baltimore City Health Department, Johns Hopkins Mobile Vaccine Unit, and the Center for Infectious Disease and Nursing Innovation at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing to provide COVID-19 vaccination, HIV and sexually transmitted infection testing, wound care, and linkage to care services co-located with a long-running syringe services program. We describe the services offered by each partner and lessons learned from this community-based co-location of services initiative.
Analyzing the Effect of Varus Forefoot Wedge in Addition to Arch Support on Self-Reported Pain, Function, and Quality of Life in Patients with Moderate Hallux Valgus: A Pilot Study
Authors: Norouzi Ehsan , Bagheri Mahtab , Alafchi Behnaz , Tafti Nahid
Published: January 2022

Introduction

The hallux valgus, a painful forefoot deformity, is defined as lateral deviation of the hallux, which is highly correlated with forefoot pronation. This study aimed to compare the effect of two types of foot orthoses, one with and one without a varus forefoot wedge, on self-reported outcomes of pain, function, and QOL (by FAOS questionnaire) in patients with moderate hallux valgus.

Materials and Methods

Sixteen patients with hallux valgus were assigned to two equal groups randomly in a before-after trial.

Results

The within-group comparison showed significant improvements in all subscales of the FAOS questionnaire for both groups (P < 0.05). The between-group analysis showed no statistically significant difference.

Conclusions

It seems the addition of varus forefoot wedge to foot orthoses may have no adverse effect on self-reported outcomes.

Clinical Relevance

It seems in conservative treatment of hallux valgus by medical insoles to correct forefoot pronation may be useful for relieving pain.
The current state of patient-to-provider communication of childhood adversity in primary care
Authors: Strauch Kimberly A. , Carrington Jane M. , Pace Thaddeus W. W.
Published: January 2022

Background:

There is a wealth of literature focused on the task of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) screening; however, little literature exists describing the broader process of ACE-related communication, specifically between nurse practitioners (NPs) and adult primary care patients. Consequently, there is no standardized process for communicating about ACEs in primary care and significant gaps remain related to how, when, and where these conversations occur.

Objectives:

To systematically examine peer-reviewed published literature from 2011 to 2021 to describe the current state of patient-to-provider communication about ACEs in primary care.

Data sources:

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a focused literature search for the dates January 1, 2011 through January 1, 2021 using the search engines CINAHL, PubMed, Ovid, and PsycINFO with inclusion criteria of “adverse childhood experiences,” “communication,” and “primary care” provided boundaries for this systematic review.

Conclusions:

Findings revealed that effective communication about childhood adversity is an integral and understated element when addressing ACE exposure among adult primary care patients. Further research focused on how primary care NPs apply the concepts of effective communication while providing clinical care to adults with histories of childhood adversity is warranted.

Implications for practice:

This systematic review will serve as a catalyst for informing future research, theory development, and curricular initiatives focused on enhancing communication between primary care NPs and adult patients with histories of childhood adversity. From a clinical perspective, this will illuminate opportunities to develop NP-centered approaches that emphasize identification, interpretation, documentation, and development of individual, ACE-specific interventions among adults with ACE exposure in primary care.
Multilayer Scaling of a Biomimetic Microfluidic Oxygenator
Authors: Vedula Else M. , Isenberg Brett C. , Santos Jose , Lai WeiXuan , Lewis Diana J. , Sutherland David , Roberts Teryn R. , Harea George T. , Wells Christian , Teece Bryan , Urban Joseph , Risoleo Thomas , Solt Derek , Leazer Sahar , Chung Kevin , Sukavaneshvar Sivaprasad , Batchinsky Andriy I. , Borenstein Jeffrey T.
Published: January 2022

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been advancing rapidly due to a combination of rising rates of acute and chronic lung diseases as well as significant improvements in the safety and efficacy of this therapeutic modality. However, the complexity of the ECMO blood circuit, and challenges with regard to clotting and bleeding, remain as barriers to further expansion of the technology. Recent advances in microfluidic fabrication techniques, devices, and systems present an opportunity to develop new solutions stemming from the ability to precisely maintain critical dimensions such as gas transfer membrane thickness and blood channel geometries, and to control levels of fluid shear within narrow ranges throughout the cartridge. Here, we present a physiologically inspired multilayer microfluidic oxygenator device that mimics physiologic blood flow patterns not only within individual layers but throughout a stacked device. Multiple layers of this microchannel device are integrated with a three-dimensional physiologically inspired distribution manifold that ensures smooth flow throughout the entire stacked device, including the critical entry and exit regions. We then demonstrate blood flows up to 200 ml/min in a multilayer device, with oxygen transfer rates capable of saturating venous blood, the highest of any microfluidic oxygenator, and a maximum blood flow rate of 480 ml/min in an eight-layer device, higher than any yet reported in a microfluidic device. Hemocompatibility and large animal studies utilizing these prototype devices are planned.

Supplemental Visual Abstract, http://links.lww.com/ASAIO/A769.
Attitudes and Intentions of Adult Patients With Cancer Toward Advance Directive: Direct and Indirect Relationships
Authors: Chen Tzu-Ting , Chen Shu-Chen , Hsiao Chia-Chi , Chu Tsui-Ping , Hung Chang-Chiao
Published: January 2022

Background

Advance directives (ADs) are used to respect the will of patients experiencing a terminal illness regarding preferred medical treatment and to protect their rights. However, the AD completion rate is low.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the factors influencing patient intentions toward AD.

Methods

The Theory of Planned Behavior was used as the framework for this study. This study used a cross-sectional design using a face-to-face interview with structured questionnaires. A total of 230 patients with cancer were recruited. Path analysis was used to examine the hypotheses.

Results

Demographic variables were not correlated with patients’ attitudes toward AD. Patients’ knowledge of AD (β = .68, t = 16.15, P < .00) and recognition of important others’ attitudes toward AD (β = .30, t = 10.74, P < .00) were predictors of patients’ attitudes toward AD. Patients’ attitudes toward AD (β = .27, t = 3.74, P < .00) and behavior control over AD (β = .09, t = 1.99, P < .04) predicted patients’ intentions toward AD.

Conclusion

Patients’ knowledge of AD, the patients’ important others’ attitudes, and behavior control toward AD are predictively associated with the intention toward AD completion.

Implications for Practice

Only when patients with cancer are provided an accessible approach for obtaining knowledge regarding AD and are given sufficient time and space can they and their significant others understand the meaning of AD and decide to complete one on their own terms.
Experiences of Symptoms and Impact on Daily Life and Health in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Drott Jenny , Björnsson Bergthor , Sandström Per , Berterö Carina
Published: January 2022

Background

The incidence of hepatocellular cancer (HCC) has continually increased. To achieve optimal supportive cancer care for HCC patients, it is important to consider patients’ experiences and preferences.

Objective

This meta-synthesis aims to critically interpret how patients with HCC experience symptoms and the impact of the disease on daily life and health.

Methods

Searches were performed in the following bibliographic databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Library. In addition, searches were performed using Open Gray to identify relevant studies in the gray literature. The search was limited to studies published in English from 2009 to 2019. Five studies (124 participants) were identified, appraised, and ultimately interpreted and synthesized.

Results

Receiving an HCC diagnosis was overwhelming and affected the patients’ entire lives. Three themes were identified based on the meta-synthesis: (1) disrupted life, (2) living with uncertainty, and (3) a changed body. Patients with HCC experience disrupted lives because of the cancer’s effect on health and multidimensional symptoms.

Conclusion

Available research on the experiences of HCC patients is limited. This meta-synthesis of available studies shows that being given a diagnosis of HCC is an overwhelming event. Our study findings show that an HCC diagnosis affected the individual’s entire life.

Implications for Practice

It is important to identify the patients’ physical, psychological, social, and existential needs during the investigation of their condition, during any curative treatment, and at the palliative stage of the disease.
Barriers and Facilitators to Supportive Care Implementation in Advanced Disease Prostate Cancer Survivors
Authors: Calvo-Schimmel Alejandra , Newman Susan D. , Sterba Katherine R. , Miaskowski Christine , Qanungo Suparna
Published: January 2022

Background

Individualized supportive care is recommended to manage the debilitating effects of advanced prostate cancer and its treatments. Yet, the implementation of supportive care in practice remains inconsistent.

Objective

The aim of this study was to synthesize the barriers and facilitators to implementing supportive care interventions after identifying supportive care interventions for advanced prostate cancer survivors.

Methods

PubMed, SCOPUS, CINAHL Complete, ProQuest, and PsycINFO were searched for relevant studies published between 2011 and 2020. Studies were included if they reported on a supportive care intervention and included a description of implementation barriers and/or facilitators. The Theoretical Domains Framework was used to characterize implementation barriers and facilitators.

Results

Of the 620 articles identified, 13 met all prespecified inclusion criteria. Primary barriers were related to the domains of environmental context and resources (eg, limited resources), knowledge (eg, insufficient knowledge on efficacy of supportive care), and beliefs about capabilities (eg, lack of confidence in materials). Facilitators fell under environmental context and resources (partnerships with local services), reinforcement (eg, partners inclusion), and skills (eg, delivery by professionals).

Conclusions

This scoping review highlights barriers and facilitators that affect supportive care implementation. Future research that focuses on overcoming barriers and maximizing facilitators is needed to improve, modify, or supplement existing supportive care implementation practices.

Implications for Practice

As the number of advanced prostate cancer survivors continues to increase, supportive care must become the standard of care. Future interventions must incorporate increased knowledge and funding, alternative delivery models, and consistent use of specialty nurses.
Longitudinal Analysis of Sleep Disturbance in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Yang Gee Su , Starkweather Angela R. , Lynch Kelly Debra , Meegan Taylor , Byon Ha Do , Lyon Debra E.
Published: January 2022

Background

Breast cancer survivors (BCS) often report poor sleep quality and wakefulness throughout the night as the greatest challenges experienced during and posttreatment.

Objectives

This study aimed to elucidate characteristics of sleep disturbances and determine potential predictors that affect sleep disturbances in BCS for 2 years postchemotherapy.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of data from the EPIGEN study, which longitudinally examined sociodemographic and cancer-related factors, lifestyle, symptom characteristics, and epigenetic factors at baseline prior to chemotherapy (T1), the midpoint (T2), 6-month (T3), 1-year (T4), and 2-year (T5) time points postchemotherapy. Temporal lifestyle changes, symptom characteristics, and epigenetic factors were explored using linear mixed-effects models with a random intercept. A linear regression model was fitted to identify significant predictors of sleep disturbances at each time point.

Results

In 74 BCS with an average age of 51 years and 70% non-Hispanic White, BCS experienced severe sleep disturbances at T2, which gradually improved over time. Significant temporal changes in midsleep awakenings, early awakenings, and fatigue at work were observed, with disturbances being elevated at T2. Anxiety (T1, T2, and T4), fatigue (T3 and T4), and perceived stress (T3) were significant predictors after adjusting for radiation therapy, surgery, and adjuvant endocrine therapy.

Discussion

This study highlights that predictors of sleep disturbances change over time, with anxiety being a factor earlier in the treatment trajectory (prechemotherapy) and continuing over time with fatigue and perceived stress being involved later in the treatment trajectory. Our results indicate that symptom management strategies to address sleep disturbances should be tailored to the temporal factors that may change in severity during active treatment and early survivorship period. Findings gained from this study on sleep disturbance patterns and the potential risk factors can be incorporated into clinical practice in planning education and developing interventions.
Near-point-of-care viral load testing during pregnancy and viremia at delivery
Authors: Joseph Jessica , Boeke Caroline E. , Makadzange Evidence Eve , Sithole Kenny , Maparo Tatenda , Mangwendeza Phibeon Munyaradzi , Peter Trevor , Sacks Jilian A. , Simbi Raiva , Khan Shaukat , Mushavi Angela
Published: January 2022

Objectives:

Assess whether near-point-of-care (POC) viral load testing at the first antenatal care visit (ANC1) increased the proportion of women taking antiretroviral therapy who were virally suppressed at delivery through expedited clinical action.

Design:

Difference-in-difference analysis.

Methods:

At 20 public sector facilities in Zimbabwe, 10 implemented near-POC viral load testing at ANC1 (August 2019 to November 2020) and 10 used centralized viral load testing at ANC1. Study endpoints included time to result received, clinical action, and unsuppressed viral load (UVL; >1000 copies/ml) at delivery.

Results:

Of 1782 women, only 46% came for ANC1 before their third trimester. Preimplementation, 28% of women received viral load testing at ANC1, increasing to 86% during implementation. In the near-POC viral load arm, women were more likely to receive their result within 30 days of ANC1 sample collection compared with the centralized laboratory arm [54 versus 14%, relative risk (RR): 4.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.82–9.55], as well as receive clinical action among those with UVL (63 versus 8%, RR 7.88; 95% CI 1.53–40.47). However, we did not observe significant changes in risk of UVL at delivery with near-POC viral load (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.95–1.10).

Conclusion:

ANC1 viral load coverage was initially low. Near-POC viral load testing at ANC1 dramatically improved the timeliness of result receipt by patients and clinical action for those with an UVL. Although we did not observe a significant impact of provision of near-POC viral load at ANC1 on re-suppression at delivery, potentially because of late presentation for ANC1, continued near-POC viral load testing during pregnancy and delivery may reduce UVL and mother-to-child transmission risk.
177Lu-FAPI Therapy in a Patient With End-Stage Metastatic Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kaghazchi Fatemeh , Aghdam Ramin Akbarian , Haghighi Shirin , Vali Reza , Adinehpour Zohreh
Published: January 2022

A 52-year-old woman with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma underwent imaging with 18F-FDG PET/CT and 68Ga-FAPI-46 PET/CT, which demonstrated malignancy recurrence in the surgical bed with multiple metastatic lesions, more extensive on 68Ga-FAPI-46 PET/CT. The patient was a candidate for therapy with 177Lu-FAPI-46 due to high uptake of lesions in 68Ga-FAPI-46 images and no other available therapeutic option. Posttreatment 177Lu-FAPI-46 scans showed rather rapid washout of the radiopharmaceutical from tumoral lesions. This case report suggests that, although 68Ga-FAPI-46 is a promising agent for tumor imaging, 177Lu-FAPI-46 may not be an optimal compound for theranostic applications.
Increased 18F-ALF-NOTA-FAPI and 18F-FDG Uptake in Renal Angiomyolipoma
Authors: Guo Yue-Hong , Yang Min-Fu
Published: January 2022

Angiomyolipoma is a common benign tumor in the kidney. Previous publication reported that renal angiomyolipoma had very low to low uptake of 18F-FDG. We report a case of pathologically proven angiomyolipoma in the left kidney with intense 18F-FDG and 18F-ALF-NOTA-FAPI uptake.
Unusual Diffuse Ground-Glass Opacities in the Lungs on 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Niu Jinyun , Quan Zhiyong , Zhao Xiaohu , Wang Jing , Kang Fei
Published: January 2022

A 61-year-old man was diagnosed with a malignant melanoma and underwent a resection; he presented with progressive dyspnea after treatment with interferon for 2 months. 18F-FDG PET/CT scan revealed diffuse ground-glass opacities (GGOs) in both lungs with mildly elevated 18F-FDG uptake, similar to that observed with interstitial inflammation. However, a lung biopsy confirmed that the diffuse GGOs were pulmonary metastases of melanoma and were positive for the BRAF mutation. The diffuse GGOs and the progressive dyspnea disappeared after BRAF-targeted therapy. This represents an unusual case of lung metastases from melanoma, mistakenly interpreted as lung inflammation induced by immunotherapy.
Impact of Heparin Preadministration for Detection of Prosthetic Valve Endocarditis With FDG PET/CT
Authors: Soydas Turan Basak , Bozkurt M. Fani
Published: January 2022

A 57-year-old woman with history of aortic and mitral valves replacement was referred to FDG PET/CT before valvular prosthesis renewal surgery. First FDG PET/CT was suboptimal for interpretation due to prominent physiological myocardial FDG uptake, despite patient preparation including 12 hours of fasting and low-carbohydrate, fat-rich diet. Therefore, scan was repeated with IV heparin preadministration at another day and revealed focal FDG uptake on the region of prosthetic heart valves, suggesting endocarditis. FDG PET/CT has been proven to be a useful technique to detect endocarditis, but appropriate patient preparation for adequate suppression of physiological myocardial uptake is important. Heparin preadministration seems to be an important component of patient preparation.
Incidence of Non-Syndromic and Syndromic Craniosynostosis in Sweden
Authors: Tarnow Peter , Kölby Lars , Maltese Giovanni , Söfteland Madiha Bhatti , Lewén Anders , Nilsson Pelle , Enblad Per , Nowinski Daniel
Published: January 2022

Premature craniosynostosis is a rare condition, with a wide range of incidence estimations in the literature. The aim of this study was to establish the current incidence among the Swedish population. Since the surgical care for these children is centralized to the 2 centers of Sahlgrenska University Hospital and Uppsala University Hospital, the 2 craniofacial hospital registries were examined for surgically treated children, all having a computed tomography verified diagnosis. Results show an incidence of 7.7 cases per 10,000 live births, including 0.60/10,000 syndromic craniosynostosis. Due to information programs among health care staff and a system for early diagnosis through rapid communication, these results seem to mirror the true incidence of craniosynostosis in the Swedish population. The updated incidence data will facilitate healthcare planning and make future studies of possible changes in craniosynostosis incidence more accurate.
The Interaction of Amiodarone and Continuous-flow Left Ventricular Assist Device Use in Risk of Severe Primary Graft Dysfunction Following Heart Transplantation
Authors: Chinnadurai Thiru , Patel Snehal R. , Saeed Omar , Hanif Waqas , Rivas-Lasarte Mercedes , Farooq Muhammad , Castillo Carolyne , Taveras Maria , Fauvel Daphenie , Shin Jooyoung J. , Sims Daniel , Murthy Sandhya , Vukelic Sasha , Chavez Patricia , Forest Stephen , Goldstein Daniel , Jorde Ulrich P.
Published: January 2022

Background.

Primary graft dysfunction (PGD) increases morbidity and mortality after heart transplant. Here we investigated (1) the association of continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (CF-LVAD), amiodarone, and severe PGD and (2) the safety of amiodarone discontinuation in CF-LVAD patients.

Methods.

Retrospective, single-center study of heart transplant recipients was conducted to investigate the association of risk factors and severe PGD. Patients were grouped into 4 groups based on the presence (denoted +) or absence (denoted –) of amiodarone and CF-LVAD. Prospective amiodarone discontinuation was undertaken to investigate its safety in a cohort of CF-LVAD patients. Study endpoints were severe PGD and recurrence of arrhythmia.

Results.

Severe PGD was strongly associated with CF-LVAD and amiodarone use, and its prevalence is highest if both risk factors were present (CF-LVAD–/amiodarone – 1.5%, CF-LVAD –/amiodarone+ 4.5%, CF-LVAD+/amiodarone – 7.1%, CF-LVAD+/amiodarone+ 21.8%; P < 0.01). The product of every 1-y additional CF-LVAD support by every 100 mg amiodarone was associated with severe PGD (adjusted odds ratio, 1.43; 95% confidence interval, 1.15-1.78; P < 0.01). Amiodarone was prospectively discontinued in 28 CF-LVAD patients. Of them, 6 patients had recurrence of arrhythmia requiring treatment or heart failure admission. There were no deaths. Nine patients in whom amiodarone had been discontinued had heart transplants with no severe PGD.

Conclusions.

Amiodarone and CF-LVAD were independently associated with severe PGD. The combination of both risk factors was associated with a higher prevalence of severe PGD. Amiodarone discontinuation was associated with recurrence of arrhythmia in 6 CF-LVAD patients. There was no mortality associated with amiodarone discontinuation.
Peak Space Motion Artifact Cancellation Applied to Textile Electrode Waist Electrocardiograms Recorded During Outdoors Walking and Jogging
Authors: Hopenfeld Bruce
Published: January 2022

Background

Obtaining reliable rate heart estimates from waist based electrocardiograms (ECGs) poses a very challenging problem due to the presence of extreme motion artifacts. The literature reveals few, if any, attempts to apply motion artifact cancellation methods to waist based ECGs. This paper describes a new methodology for ameliorating the effects of motion artifacts in ECGs by specifically targeting ECG peaks for elimination that are determined to be correlated with accelerometer peaks. This peak space cancellation is applied to real world waist based ECGs.

Algorithm Summary

The methodology includes successive applications of a previously described pattern-based heart beat detection scheme (Temporal Pattern Search, or “TEPS”). In the first application, TEPS is applied to accelerometer signals recorded contemporaneously with ECG signals to identify high-quality accelerometer peak sequences (SA) indicative of quasi-periodic motion likely to impair identification of peaks in a corresponding ECG signal. The process then performs ECG peak detection and locates the closest in time ECG peak to each peak in an SA. The differences in time between ECG and SA peaks are clustered. If the number of elements in a cluster of peaks in an SA exceeds a threshold, the ECG peaks in that cluster are removed from further processing. After this peak removal process, further QRS detection proceeds according to TEPS.

Experiment

The above procedure was applied to data from real world experiments involving four sessions of walking and jogging on a dirt road for approximately 20-25 minutes. A compression shirt with textile electrodes served as the ground truth recording. A textile electrode based chest strap was worn around the waist to generate a single channel signal upon which to test peak space cancellation/TEPS.

Results

Both walking and jogging heart rates were generally well tracked. In the four recordings, the percentage of segments within 10 beats/minute of reference was 96%, 99%, 92% and 96%. The percentage of segments within 5 beats/minute of reference was 86%, 90%, 82% and 78%. There was very good agreement between the RR intervals associated with the reference and waist recordings. For acceptable quality segments, the root mean square sum of successive RR interval differences (RMSSD) was calculated for both the reference and waist recordings. Next, the difference between waist and reference RMSSDs was calculated (ΔRMSSD). The mean ΔRMSSD (over acceptable segments) was 4.6 m, 5.2 ms, 5.2 ms and 6.6 ms for the four recordings. Given that only one waist ECG channel was available, and that the strap used for the waist recording was not tailored for that purpose, the proposed methodology shows promise for waist based sinus rhythm QRS detection.
Epigenomic mapping identifies a super-enhancer repertoire that regulates cell identity in bladder cancers through distinct transcription factor networks
Authors: Neyret-Kahn Hélène , Fontugne Jacqueline , Meng Xiang Yu , Groeneveld Clarice S. , Cabel Luc , Ye Tao , Guyon Elodie , Krucker Clémentine , Dufour Florent , Chapeaublanc Elodie , Rapinat Audrey , Jeffery Daniel , Neuzillet Yann , Lebret Thierry , Gentien David , Davidson Irwin , Allory Yves , Bernard-Pierrot Isabelle , Radvanyi François
Published: January 2022

Muscle-invasive bladder cancer (BLCA) is an aggressive disease. Consensus BLCA transcriptomic subtypes have been proposed, with two major Luminal and Basal subgroups, presenting distinct molecular and clinical characteristics. However, how these distinct subtypes are regulated remains unclear. We hypothesized that epigenetic activation of distinct super-enhancers could drive the transcriptional programs of BLCA subtypes.

Through integrated RNA-sequencing and epigenomic profiling of histone marks in primary tumours, cancer cell lines, and normal human urothelia, we established the first integrated epigenetic map of BLCA and demonstrated the link between subtype and epigenetic control. We identified the repertoire of activated super-enhancers and highlighted Basal, Luminal and Normal-associated SEs. We revealed the super-enhancer-regulated networks of candidate master transcription factors for Luminal and Basal subgroups including FOXA1 and ZBED2 respectively. FOXA1 CRISPR-Cas9 mutation triggered a shift from Luminal to Basal phenotype, confirming its role in Luminal identity regulation and induced ZBED2 overexpression. In parallel, we showed that both FOXA1 and ZBED2 play concordant roles in preventing inflammatory response in cancer cells through STAT2 inhibition.

Our study furthers the understanding of epigenetic regulation of muscle-invasive BLCA and identifies a co-regulated network of super-enhancers and associated transcription factors providing potential targets for the treatment of this aggressive disease.
Failed remyelination of the non-human primate optic nerve leads to axon degeneration, retinal damages and visual dysfunction
Authors: Sarrazin Nadège , Chavret-Reculon Estelle , Bachelin Corinne , Felfli Mehdi , Arab Rafik , Gilardeau Sophie , Brazhnikova Elena , Dubus Elisabeth , Yaha-Cherif Lydia , Lorenceau Jean , Picaud Serge , Rosolen Serge , Moissonnier Pierre , Pouget Pierre , Baron-Van Evercooren Anne
Published: January 2022

White matter disorders of the CNS such as MS, lead to failure of nerve conduction and long-lasting neurological disabilities affecting a variety of sensory and motor systems including vision. While most disease-modifying therapies target the immune and inflammatory response, the promotion of remyelination has become a new therapeutic avenue, to prevent neuronal degeneration and promote recovery. Most of these strategies are developed in short-lived rodent models of demyelination, which spontaneously repair and do not reflect the size, organization, and biology of the human CNS. Thus, well-defined non-human primate models are required to efficiently advance therapeutic approaches for patients. Here, we followed the consequence of long-term toxin-induced demyelination of the macaque optic nerve on remyelination and axon preservation, as well as its impact on visual functions. Findings from oculo-motor behavior, ophthalmic examination, electrophysiology, and retinal imaging indicate visual impairment involving the optic nerve and retina. These visual dysfunctions fully correlated at the anatomical level, with sustained optic nerve demyelination, axonal degeneration, and alterations of the inner retinal layers. This non-human primate model of chronic optic nerve demyelination associated with axonal degeneration and visual dysfunction, recapitulates several key features of MS lesions and should be instrumental in providing the missing link to translate emerging repair pro-myelinating/neuroprotective therapies to the clinic for myelin disorders such as MS.

Significance Statement

Promotion of remyelination has become a new therapeutic avenue, to prevent neuronal degeneration and promote recovery in white matter diseases such as MS. To date most of these strategies are developed in short-lived rodent models of demyelination, which spontaneously repair. Well-defined non-human primate models closer to man would allow to efficiently advance therapeutic approaches. Here we present a non-human primate model of optic nerve demyelination that recapitulates several features of MS lesions. The model leads to failed remyelination, associated with progressive axonal degeneration and visual dysfunction, thus providing the missing link to translate emerging pre-clinical therapies to the clinic for myelin disorders such as MS.
Sex differences in pain-related behaviors and clinical progression of disease in mouse models of visceral pain
Authors: Francis-Malave Adela M. , Gonzalez Santiago Martinez , Pichardo Caren , Wilson Torri D. , Rivera Luis G. , Brinster Lauren R. , Carrasquillo Yarimar
Published: January 2022

Previous studies have reported sex differences in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients, including differences in visceral pain perception. Despite this, sex differences in behavioral manifestations of visceral pain and underlying pathology of the gastrointestinal tract have been largely understudied in preclinical research. In this study, we evaluated potential sex differences in spontaneous visceral nociceptive responses, referred abdominal hypersensitivity, disease progression and bowel pathology in mouse models of acute and persistent colon inflammation. Our experiments show that females exhibit more visceral nociceptive responses and referred abdominal hypersensitivity than males in the context of acute but not persistent colon inflammation. We further demonstrate that, following acute and persistent colon inflammation, visceral pain-related behavioral responses in females and males are distinct, with increases in licking of the abdomen only observed in females and increases in abdominal contractions only seen in males. During persistent colon inflammation, males exhibit worse disease progression than females, which is manifested as worse physical appearance and higher weight loss. However, no measurable sex differences were observed in persistent inflammation-induced bowel pathology, stool consistency or fecal blood. Overall, our findings demonstrate that visceral pain-related behaviors and disease progression in the context of acute and persistent colon inflammation are sex-dependent, highlighting the importance of considering sex as a biological variable in future mechanistic studies of visceral pain as well as in the development of diagnostics and therapeutic options for chronic gastrointestinal diseases.
Engineered cell differentiation and sexual reproduction in probiotic and mating yeasts
Authors: Jensen Emil D. , Deichmann Marcus , Ma Xin , Vilandt Rikke U. , Schiesaro Giovanni , Rojek Marie B. , Lengger Bettina , Eliasson Line , Vento Justin M. , Durmusoglu Deniz , Hovmand Sandie P. , Al’Abri Ibrahim , Zhang Jie , Crook Nathan , Jensen Michael K.
Published: January 2022

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) enable cells to sense environmental cues and are indispensable for coordinating vital processes including quorum sensing, proliferation, and sexual reproduction. GPCRs comprise the largest class of cell surface receptors in eukaryotes, and for more than three decades the pheromone-induced mating pathway in baker’s yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae has served as a model for studying heterologous GPCRs (hGPCRs). Here we report transcriptome profiles following mating pathway activation in native and hGPCR-signaling yeast, and use a model-guided approach to correlate gene expression to morphological changes. From this we demonstrate mating between haploid cells armed with hGPCRs and endogenous biosynthesis of their cognate ligands. Furthermore, we devise a ligand-free screening strategy for hGPCR compatibility with the yeast mating pathway and enable hGPCR-signaling in the probiotic yeast Saccharomyces boulardii. Combined, our findings enable new means to study mating, hGPCR-signaling, and cell-cell communication in a model eukaryote and yeast probiotics.

One-sentence summary

Enabling sensing in probiotic yeast and synthetic yeast mating with human and fungal G protein-coupled receptors.
Panoramic visual statistics shape retina-wide organization of receptive fields
Authors: Gupta Divyansh , Młynarski Wiktor , Sumser Anton , Symonova Olga , Svatoň Jan , Joesch Maximilian
Published: January 2022

Statistics of natural scenes are not uniform - their structure varies dramatically from ground to sky. It remains unknown whether these non-uniformities are reflected in the large-scale organization of the early visual system and what benefits such adaptations would confer. Here, by relying on the efficient coding hypothesis, we predict that changes in the structure of receptive fields across visual space increase the efficiency of sensory coding. We show experimentally that, in agreement with our predictions, receptive fields of retinal ganglion cells change their shape along the dorsoventral retinal axis, with a marked surround asymmetry at the visual horizon. Our work demonstrates that, according to principles of efficient coding, the panoramic structure of natural scenes is exploited by the retina across space and cell-types.