bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contribution of imaging modalities to eosinophilic myocarditis diagnosis: a case report
Authors: Farhat Nesrine , Bouhabib Maya , Joye Raphael , Vallée Jean-Paul , Beghetti Maurice
Published: February 2022

Background

Eosinophilic myocarditis (EM) is a relatively rare form of myocarditis that could progress to restrictive cardiomyopathy and might be fatal if left untreated. Although myocardial biopsy is considered to be the gold standard for the diagnosis of myocarditis, its use in paediatrics remains controversial and not easily applicable in routine practice.

Case summary

A 10-year-old girl with no prior medical history presented to the emergency department for fever, odynophagia, and gastrointestinal symptoms despite 48 h of antibiotics (Cefaclor). Physical examination revealed diffuse petechiae and abdominal tenderness but was otherwise unremarkable. Her vital signs were normal. She was found to have hypereosinophilia and increased cardiac markers on laboratory testing. Echocardiography showed diffuse left ventricular (LV) myocardial infiltrates, moderate LV dilatation, and mild systolic dysfunction. Bone marrow biopsy confirmed B cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. The diagnosis of EM was made. High doses of steroids and chemotherapy were initiated. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) identified eosinophilic infiltrates and sub-endocardial enhancement strongly suggestive of EM. Left ventricular function was slightly decreased. Intra-ventricular micro-thrombi were suspected, and warfarin was started. The outcome was favourable. Leucocyte and eosinophil counts were normalized within a month. At 6 months, cardiac MRI demonstrated a significant decrease in eosinophilic infiltration and micro-thrombi, normalization of LV function, and of sub-endocardial enhancement.

Discussion

This case demonstrates that non-invasive multi-modality imaging along with typical laboratory and clinical findings allow for appropriate diagnosis of EM while avoiding biopsy. It also highlights that an early diagnosis, timely treatment, and rigorous follow-up improve disease progression and outcome.
Abnormal wire’s trajectory during edge-to-edge mitral valve repair—a rare case report of inferior vena cava anomaly
Authors: Koren Ofir , Patel Vivek , Koseki Keita , Natanzon Sharon Shalom , Friedman John , Makkar Raj R
Published: February 2022

Background

Inferior vena cava (IVC) anomalies are rare and diagnosed incidentally as most patients are asymptomatic. We present a case where an abnormal course of the wire during percutaneous mitral valve repair revealed abnormal IVC anatomy leading to procedure termination. We summarized all IVC anomalies relevant to cardiovascular physicians and designed a simplified tool to illustrate their course for differential diagnosis.

Case summary

A 78-year-old female presented with severe and symptomatic mitral regurgitation. The heart team decided to proceed with a percutaneous option, considering the patient's high surgical risk. While ascending from the femoral vein, the wire took an abnormal course to the left side of the vertebrae and continued beyond the cardiac silhouette downwards the right atrium (RA). We decided to abort the procedure due to the high risk for vascular complications assuming the need to cross it with the device's delivery system. Retrospective computed tomography analysis revealed an interrupted IVC at the level of the renal vasculature and azygos continuation toward the RA via a dilated superior vena cava. The patient was referred to surgery and had successful mitral and tricuspid valve repair and was discharged home in good health.

Discussion

The increased number of minimally invasive percutaneous procedures, especially for valvular heart disease, mandates a profound understanding of the arterial, and venous system anatomy. Inferior vena cava anomalies represent a group of anomalies with different paths and variations and have a tremendous impact on all aspects of the procedure.
Fulminant Lyme myocarditis without any other signs of Lyme disease in a 37-year-old male patient with microscopic polyangiitis—a case report
Authors: Schroeter Marco R , Klingel Karin , Korsten Peter , Hasenfuß Gerd
Published: February 2022

Background

Lyme disease is a tick-borne multisystem infection. The most common cardiac manifestation is an acute presentation of Lyme carditis, which often manifests as conduction disorder and rarely as myocarditis.

Case summary

We report the case of a 37-year-old male with a history of microscopic polyangiitis receiving immunosuppressive therapy. He was admitted for severe dyspnoea secondary to acute heart failure. Echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging indicated a severely reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) with global hypokinesia. Coronary heart disease was excluded, and endomyocardial biopsies (EMB) were performed. The left ventricular EMB revealed a rare case of fulminant Lyme carditis with evidence of typical lymphocytic myocarditis. Borrelia afzelii-DNA was detected without any relevant atrioventricular blockage or systemic signs of Lyme disease. The patient had no clinically apparent tick-borne infection or self-reported history of a tick bite. Immunological testing revealed a positive ELISA and Immunoblot for anti-Borrelia immunoglobulin G antibodies. After specific intravenous antibiotic therapy and optimized medical therapy for heart failure, the LVEF recovered, and the patient could be discharged in an improved condition. Repeat EMB a few months later revealed a dramatic regression of the cardiac inflammation and absence of Borrelia DNA in the myocardium.

Discussion

A severely reduced LVEF can be the primary manifestation of Lyme disease even without typical systemic findings and can have a favourable prognosis with antibiotic treatment. A thorough workup for Lyme carditis is required in patients with unexplained heart failure, particularly with EMB, especially in immunosuppressed patients.
Time to initiation of lipid-lowering drugs for subclinical atherosclerosis: sub-study of VIPVIZA randomized controlled trial, with single-arm cross-over
Authors: Holmberg Henrik , Sjölander Maria , Glader Eva-Lotta , Näslund Ulf , Carlberg Bo , Norberg Margareta , Själander Anders
Published: February 2022

Aims

Visual information about subclinical atherosclerosis was provided to physicians and participants in the VIPVIZA trial, inclusion 2013–16 in northern Sweden, aiming to improve adherence to cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention guidelines. Pictorial risk information may be more actionable. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of intervention with pictorial risk information on time to first dispensing of statins.

Methods and results

Asymptomatic atherosclerotic disease was screened for by carotid ultrasound examination in 3532 participants enrolled in VIPVIZA, of those 3000 met the criteria for this study. Participants were randomly assigned to receive pictorial risk information consisting of graphical representation of atherosclerosis as compared to a control group without intervention. Time to initiation of statins was assessed during 5 years of follow-up through the National prescribed drug register. After 3 years, both groups were re-examined and received the intervention information. In the intervention group, initiation of statins increased considerably for the first 3 years and a smaller increase was also seen after re-intervention. After the cross-over, the control group showed a sharp increase in initiation of statins, almost reaching the same proportion treated at 5 years. The propensity to initiate statin treatment increased over the study period and there was no difference between men and women.

Conclusions

The pictorial information had an effect on time to initiation of statins, both as original and repeated intervention and also in the control group after single-arm cross-over. The current study supports pictorial information as a tool to shorten time to initiation of statins for CVD prevention.

The VIPVIZA study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01849575.
Incidence and natural history of coronary evagination after implanted biodegradable polymer sirolimus-eluting stent
Authors: Tsuji Keiko , Ishida Masaru , Itoh Tomonori , Kimura Takumi , Kikuchi Tatsuo , Okubo Munenori , Hayashi Takatoshi , Otake Hiromasa , Shinke Toshiro , Morino Yoshihiro
Published: February 2022

Aims

The incidence and temporal change in coronary evagination (CE) after first-generation drug-eluting stent implantation is well established, whereas that after biodegradable polymer sirolimus-eluting stent (BP-SES) implantation has not yet been evaluated. The aim of this study is to assess the incidence and natural history of CE after BP-SES implantation.

Methods and results

In this multicenter registry, stable coronary lesions treated by Ultimaster BP-SES were evaluated by serial optical frequency domain imaging (OFDI) (at 0–1–12 or 0–3–12 months) and the incidence of CE was assessed. Coronary evagination was defined as the presence of an outward bulge in luminal vessel contour between apposed struts according to the following criteria: (i) evagination depth ≥10% of nominal stent diameter and (ii) evagination length ≥3.0 mm. Optical frequency domain imaging was obtained in 98, 47, 49, and 87 lesions at 0, 1, 3, and 12 months, respectively. Coronary evagination was observed in 20 (42.6%) and 12 (24.5%) lesions at 1 and 3 months, respectively, and all but one CE had resolved at 12 months. At 12 months, the mean CE area was almost zero and the mean malapposed stent area was also decreased. Comparison of the serial OFDI images indicated that CEs originated mostly from acute stent malapposition or coronary dissection behind the implanted stent.

Conclusions

In stable lesions, CE was occasionally observed with Ultimaster BP-SES at 1–3 months but mostly resolved within 12 months, without late-acquired stent malapposition. These findings suggest the safety and feasibility of biodegradable polymer coating on DES.
DNA repair, recombination, and damage signaling
Authors: Gartner Anton , Engebrecht JoAnne
Published: February 2022

DNA must be accurately copied and propagated from one cell division to the next, and from one generation to the next. To ensure the faithful transmission of the genome, a plethora of distinct as well as overlapping DNA repair and recombination pathways have evolved. These pathways repair a large variety of lesions, including alterations to single nucleotides and DNA single and double-strand breaks, that are generated as a consequence of normal cellular function or by external DNA damaging agents. In addition to the proteins that mediate DNA repair, checkpoint pathways have also evolved to monitor the genome and coordinate the action of various repair pathways. Checkpoints facilitate repair by mediating a transient cell cycle arrest, or through initiation of cell suicide if DNA damage has overwhelmed repair capacity. In this chapter, we describe the attributes of Caenorhabditis elegans that facilitate analyses of DNA repair, recombination, and checkpoint signaling in the context of a whole animal. We review the current knowledge of C. elegans DNA repair, recombination, and DNA damage response pathways, and their role during development, growth, and in the germ line. We also discuss how the analysis of mutational signatures in C. elegans is helping to inform cancer mutational signatures in humans.
Hox proteins interact to pattern neuronal subtypes in Caenorhabditis elegans males
Authors: Kalis Andrea K , Sterrett Maria C , Armstrong Cecily , Ballmer Amarantha , Burkstrand Kylie , Chilson Elizabeth , Emlen Estee , Ferrer Emma , Loeb Seanna , Olin Taylor , Tran Kevin , Wheeler Andrew , Ross Wolff Jennifer
Published: February 2022

Hox transcription factors are conserved regulators of neuronal subtype specification on the anteroposterior axis in animals, with disruption of Hox gene expression leading to homeotic transformations of neuronal identities. We have taken advantage of an unusual mutation in the Caenorhabditis elegans Hox gene lin-39, lin-39(ccc16), which transforms neuronal fates in the C. elegans male ventral nerve cord in a manner that depends on a second Hox gene, mab-5. We have performed a genetic analysis centered around this homeotic allele of lin-39 in conjunction with reporters for neuronal target genes and protein interaction assays to explore how LIN-39 and MAB-5 exert both flexibility and specificity in target regulation. We identify cis-regulatory modules in neuronal reporters that are both region-specific and Hox-responsive. Using these reporters of neuronal subtype, we also find that the lin-39(ccc16) mutation disrupts neuronal fates specifically in the region where lin-39 and mab-5 are coexpressed, and that the protein encoded by lin-39(ccc16) is active only in the absence of mab-5. Moreover, the fates of neurons typical to the region of lin-39-mab-5 coexpression depend on both Hox genes. Our genetic analysis, along with evidence from Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation protein interaction assays, supports a model in which LIN-39 and MAB-5 act at an array of cis-regulatory modules to cooperatively activate and to individually activate or repress neuronal gene expression, resulting in regionally specific neuronal fates.
Prospective Associations Between Physical Activity and Perceived Fatigability in Older Men: Differences by Activity Type and Baseline Marital Status
Authors: Moored Kyle D , Qiao Yujia (Susanna) , Boudreau Robert M , Roe Lauren S , Cawthon Peggy M , Cauley Jane A , Glynn Nancy W
Published: February 2022

Background

Lower physical activity has been cross-sectionally associated with greater perceived fatigability, defined as self-reported fatigue anchored to activity intensity and duration. The temporality of this relationship, and whether it differs by activity type or marital status, remains unclear.

Methods

In the Osteoporotic Fractures in Men Study (N = 1 759), self-reported total, exercise, and household activity were assessed using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly across 7 visits (2000–2016). The Pittsburgh Fatigability Scale (range: 0–50; higher scores = greater fatigability) measured physical (mean = 16.6 ± 9.7) and mental (mean = 7.8 ± 8.3) fatigability at Year 14. Least absolute deviation and linear regression were used to examine associations between baseline and change in activity over 14 years with subsequent fatigability. Models were adjusted for demographic, health, and lifestyle factors.

Results

After adjustment, lower baseline (β= −0.08, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.12, −0.04) and greater annual declines in total activity (β = −0.09, 95% CI: −0.14, −0.05) were prospectively associated with higher Pittsburgh Fatigability Scale (PFS) Physical scores. Associations were similar for mental fatigability (both p < .05). Lower baseline leisure exercise, but not baseline household activity, predicted higher PFS Physical scores (β = −0.10 vs −0.001). In contrast, greater declines in household activity, but not declines in exercise, were associated with higher PFS Physical scores (β = −0.09 vs −0.03). Lower baseline household activity predicted higher PFS Mental scores only for unmarried men (β = −0.15, 95% CI: −0.29, −0.01, interaction p = .019).

Conclusions

Baseline total activity and leisure exercise, and declines in total and household activity, were associated with higher subsequent perceived fatigability in older men. Marital status may mitigate the contribution of household activity to subsequent fatigability.
Association Between Community Environment and Depressive Symptoms Among Chinese Middle-aged and Older Adults: Evidence From National Longitudinal Surveys From 2011 to 2018
Authors: Zhou Ying , Wu Qi , Li Chenshuang , Ding Lieyun
Published: February 2022

Background

Despite the growing evidence on the relationship between community environment and depressive symptoms, little is known about the longitudinal relationship in older adults. This study aimed to examine the longitudinal association between community environment and depressive symptoms based on a nationally representative survey among Chinese middle-aged and older adults.

Methods

A total of 6 872 participants from the latest four waves (2011, 2013, 2015, and 2018) of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study were included. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale was used to measure depressive symptoms, and Cox proportional hazards regression models were conducted to investigate the longitudinal association between community environment and depressive symptoms after adjusting included covariates.

Results

Both community infrastructure and organizations were significantly associated with depression, and infrastructure was associated with higher risk reduction in depression (hazard ratio [HR], 0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.66–0.89). Furthermore, we estimated the heterogeneous effects of community infrastructure and organizations for vulnerable populations. Additionally, family-based elder-care center (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.46–0.86) and outdoor exercise facilities (HR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.68–0.84) were found as significant correlates associated with lower depressive symptom risk.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that targeted and specific measures should be taken to improve the construction of community infrastructure and strengthen the role of community organizations. Specifically, providing a family-based elder-care center and establishing outdoor exercise facilities might be effective methods to reduce the risk of depression and relieve related public health burdens among Chinese middle-aged and older adults.
Association Between Wages and Nursing Staff Turnover in Iowa Nursing Homes
Authors: Sharma Hari , Xu Lili
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives

Nursing staff turnover is a substantial concern for nursing homes that care for millions of older individuals, especially during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Low pay is considered as one of the key reasons for high turnover. However, we do not know whether increasing wages can lead to lower turnover. In this study, we fill this gap in our understanding by analyzing the relationship between wages and nursing staff turnover.

Research Design and Methods

We obtained data on hourly wages (Medicare Cost Reports), turnover (Iowa Department of Human Services), and nursing home and resident characteristics (Nursing Home Compare and LTCFocus) from 2013 to 2017. We summarized the characteristics of nursing homes as well as turnover trends over time. Next, we used pooled ordinary least squares (OLS) and facility fixed effects regressions to examine the relationship between wages and turnover adjusting for nursing home and resident characteristics.

Results

Among the 396 nursing homes in Iowa, average hourly wage was $27.0 for registered nurses (RNs), $21.6 for licensed practical nurses (LPNs), and $14.1 for certified nurse aides (CNAs) during 2013–2017. Average turnover rates were increasing over time for all staff types and in 2017, turnover rates were 46.0% for RNs, 44.4% for LPNs, and 64.7% for CNAs. In both pooled OLS and facility fixed effects regressions, higher wages were associated with lower turnover of CNAs but not LPNs or RNs. The magnitude of the effect of wages on turnover for CNAs was lower in facility fixed effects regressions.

Discussion and Implications

We found a significant relationship between hourly wages and turnover for CNAs but not for LPNs or RNs. Focusing on higher wages alone may not lead to lower turnover of all types of nursing staff in nursing homes. We should also focus on nonwage factors related to turnover.
Are Interventions for Formal Caregivers Effective for Improving Dementia Care? A Systematic Review of Systematic Reviews
Authors: Sefcik Justine S , Boltz Marie , Dellapina Maria , Gitlin Laura N
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives

Several systematic reviews exist that examine the efficacy of educational interventions in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) designed to improve formal caregivers’ knowledge and skills and/or the outcomes of persons living with dementia. The aim of this article is to summarize existing systematic reviews to assess the effectiveness of educational interventions tested in RCTs and directed at formal caregivers.

Research Design and Methods

Smith et al.’s methodology guided this systematic review of systematic reviews. We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and the A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR 2) for quality appraisals. Reviews were included if they contained interventions with an RCT design that focused on changing staff behavior and/or practice toward persons living with dementia, in any setting and for any health care discipline.

Results

We identified six systematic reviews, one rated as high-quality on the AMSTAR 2. Most interventions were directed at nursing staff, in long-term care facilities, focused on agitation, and were atheoretical. There is insufficient evidence to guide implementation of currently tested interventions; however, training in communication skills, person-centered care, and dementia-care mapping with supervision show promise for improving agitation.

Discussion and Implications

There’s a critical need for additional research with well-designed RCTs, and clear reporting of protocols and findings to inform the field on how best to train and support the workforce. Although there is no conclusive evidence on what interventions are most effective, it could be argued that providing training using interventions with modest evidence of impact is better than no training at all until the evidence base is strengthened.
Ultrasound-Tomographic Image Fusion: A Novel Imaging Technique for Follow-Up of Penetrating Complications of Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Carter Dan , Ben-Horin Shomron , Horesh Nir , Saukhat Olga
Published: February 2022

We herein report the first use, to our knowledge, of computed tomography-ultrasound (US) fusion technique to follow-up Crohn’s disease complications. This novel technique employs real-time reconstructed fusion of previously obtained tomographic images onto the US image software, allowing accurate bedside spatial resolution, localization, and lesion characterization by US.
Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation in the assessment of extrinsic tracheal stenosis
Authors: Fiorelli Alfonso , Fiorito Roberta , Messina Gaetana , Leone Francesco , Mirra Rosa , Pace Maria Caterina , Ferraro Fausto , Caterina Mario
Published: February 2022

In patients with extrinsic tracheal stenosis caused by a mediastinal mass, an airway stent is a palliative measure to relieve airway obstruction. However, the self-expanding force of the stent may be insufficient to force a rigid stenosis. Our goal was to report a simple strategy to indirectly estimate the rigidity of the stenosis and predict airway patency after inserting the stent. Before the procedure, the inspiratory and expiratory flows and their ratio were evaluated under spontaneous breathing and after positive pressure ventilation generated by a facial mask. In patients with stenosis successfully treated with a stent (n = 11), we found significant changes in expiratory (2.3 ± 0.7 vs 2.8 ± 0.7; p = 0.03) and inspiratory (1.5 ± 0.6 vs 2.5 ± 0.9; p = 0.001) flows and a reduction of their ratio (1.4 ± 0.3 vs 1.1 ± 0.2; p = 0.01) whereas no significant changes were observed in patients (n = 2) whose stent failed to force the stenosis. In these cases, a tracheostomy was performed to assure ventilation. Our simple strategy may help physicians predict airway patency after stenting or plan alternative treatments in patients with rigid stenosis difficult to force by stenting.
Sparse spectral methods for partial differential equations on spherical caps
Authors: Snowball Ben , Olver Sheehan
Published: February 2022

In recent years, sparse spectral methods for solving partial differential equations have been derived using hierarchies of classical orthogonal polynomials (OPs) on intervals, disks, disk-slices and triangles. In this work, we extend the methodology to a hierarchy of non-classical multivariate OPs on spherical caps. The entries of discretizations of partial differential operators can be effectively computed using formulae in terms of (non-classical) univariate OPs. We demonstrate the results on partial differential equations involving the spherical Laplacian and biharmonic operators, showing spectral convergence with discretizations that can be made well conditioned using a simple preconditioner.
Antimicrobial stewardship in companion animal practice: an implementation trial in 135 general practice veterinary clinics
Authors: Hardefeldt L. Y. , Hur B. , Richards S. , Scarborough R. , Browning G. F. , Billman-Jacobe H. , Gilkerson J. R. , Ierardo J. , Awad M. , Chay R. , Bailey K. E.
Published: February 2022

Background

Antimicrobial stewardship programmes (ASPs) have been widely implemented in medical practice to improve antimicrobial prescribing and reduce selection for multidrug-resistant pathogens.

Objectives

To implement different antimicrobial stewardship intervention packages in 135 veterinary practices and assess their impact on antimicrobial prescribing.

Methods

In October 2018, general veterinary clinics were assigned to one of three levels of ASP, education only (CON), intermediate (AMS1) or intensive (AMS2). De-identified prescribing data (1 October 2016 to 31 October 2020), sourced from VetCompass Australia, were analysed and a Poisson regression model fitted to identify the effect of the interventions on the incidence rates of antimicrobial prescribing.

Results

The overall incidence rate (IR) of antimicrobial prescribing for dogs and cats prior to the intervention was 3.7/100 consultations, which declined by 36% (2.4/100) in the implementation period, and by 50% (1.9/100) during the post-implementation period. Compared with CON, in AMS2 there was a 4% and 6% reduction in the overall IR of antimicrobial prescribing, and a 24% and 24% reduction in IR of high importance antimicrobial prescribing, attributable to the intervention in the implementation and post-implementation periods, respectively. A greater mean difference in the IR of antimicrobial prescribing was seen in high-prescribing clinics.

Conclusions

These AMS interventions had a positive impact in a large group of general veterinary practices, resulting in a decline in overall antimicrobial use and a shift towards use of antimicrobials rated as low importance, with the greatest impact in high-prescribing clinics.
Application of machine learning methods in clinical trials for precision medicine
Authors: Wang Yizhuo , Carter Bing Z , Li Ziyi , Huang Xuelin
Published: February 2022

Objective

A key component for precision medicine is a good prediction algorithm for patients’ response to treatments. We aim to implement machine learning (ML) algorithms into the response-adaptive randomization (RAR) design and improve the treatment outcomes.

Materials and Methods

We incorporated 9 ML algorithms to model the relationship of patient responses and biomarkers in clinical trial design. Such a model predicted the response rate of each treatment for each new patient and provide guidance for treatment assignment. Realizing that no single method may fit all trials well, we also built an ensemble of these 9 methods. We evaluated their performance through quantifying the benefits for trial participants, such as the overall response rate and the percentage of patients who receive their optimal treatments.

Results

Simulation studies showed that the adoption of ML methods resulted in more personalized optimal treatment assignments and higher overall response rates among trial participants. Compared with each individual ML method, the ensemble approach achieved the highest response rate and assigned the largest percentage of patients to their optimal treatments. For the real-world study, we successfully showed the potential improvements if the proposed design had been implemented in the study.

Conclusion

In summary, the ML-based RAR design is a promising approach for assigning more patients to their personalized effective treatments, which makes the clinical trial more ethical and appealing. These features are especially desirable for late-stage cancer patients who have failed all the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved treatment options and only can get new treatments through clinical trials.
The effect of breed, sex, and oral meloxicam administration on pain biomarkers following hot-iron branding in Hereford and Angus calves
Authors: Martin Miriam S , Kleinhenz Michael D , Edwards-Callaway Lily N , Engle Terry E , Guimaraes Octavio , Schafer David W , Montgomery Shawnee R , Curtis Andrew K , Weeder Mikaela M , Jacobs Devin R , Coetzee Johann F
Published: February 2022

Hot-iron branding uses thermal injury to permanently identify cattle causing painful tissue damage. The primary objective was to examine the physiological and behavioral effects of oral meloxicam (MEL), compared to a control, administered at the time of hot-iron branding in Angus and Hereford steers and heifers. The secondary objectives were to investigate breed and sex effects on pain biomarkers. A total of 70 yearlings, consisting of 35 heifers and 35 steers (Angus, Hereford, or Angus × Hereford), were enrolled in the study. Animals were blocked by sex, randomized across weight, and assigned to receive MEL (1 mg/kg) or a placebo (CON). Biomarkers were assessed for 48 h after branding and included infrared thermography (IRT), mechanical nociceptive threshold (MNT), accelerometry and a visual analog scale (VAS), and serum cortisol and prostaglandin E2 metabolites (PGEM). Wound healing was assessed for 12 wk. Hair samples to quantify cortisol levels were taken prior to and 30 d post-branding. Responses were analyzed using repeated measures with calf nested in treatment as a random effect, and treatment, time, treatment by time interaction, breed, and sex as fixed effects. There was a treatment by time interaction for PGEM (P < 0.01) with MEL having lower values than CON at 6, 24, and 48 h (MEL: 18.34 ± 3.52, 19.61 ± 3.48, and 22.24 ± 3.48 pg/mL, respectively; CON: 32.57 ± 3.58, 37.00 ± 3.52, and 33.07 ± 3.48 pg/mL; P < 0.01). MEL showed less of a difference in maximum IRT values between the branded (2.27 ± 0.29 °C) and control site (3.15 ± 0.29 °C; P < 0.01). MEL took fewer lying bouts at 0–12 h (4.91 bouts ± 0.56) compared with CON (6.87 bouts ± 0.55; P < 0.01). Compared with Hereford calves, Angus calves exhibited greater serum but lower hair cortisol, greater PGEM, more lying bouts, and less healed wound scores at 3, 4, and 5 wk. Compared with heifers, steers exhibited lower PGEM, lower branding site and ocular IRT, higher MNT, and lower plasma meloxicam levels. Steers spent more time lying, took more lying bouts and had greater VAS pain, and more healed wound scores at 5 wk than heifers. Meloxicam administration at branding reduced branding and control site temperature differences and reduced lying bouts for the first 12 h. Breed and sex effects were observed across many biomarkers. Changes from baseline values for IRT, MNT, lying time, step count, VAS pain, and wound scoring all support that branding cattle is painful.
American Burn Association Burn Prevention Framework
Authors: Campbell Stephanie A , Klas Karla , Hoarle Kimberly , Dillard B Daniel , Grant Ernest , Newman Annette , Peterson Pamela , Radics-Johnson Jennifer , Ming Liu Yuk , Wibbenmeyer Lucy , Wolf Steven , Coffey Rebecca
Published: February 2022

In February 2020, burn prevention experts from a variety of professional backgrounds gathered for a national Burn Prevention Summit. Through lively discussion and debate, this group came to a consensus on several core burn prevention concepts in order to create a framework for burn prevention program planning. The resulting document includes components of a successful program, a five-step process for program planning, best practices in messaging, and general advice from the summit attendees. This framework is designed for both novice professionals who are new to burn prevention programming development and experienced professionals who would like to strengthen existing programming.
Characterized Gene Repertoires and Functional Gene Reference for Forensic Entomology: Genomic and Developmental Transcriptomic Analysis of Aldrichina grahami (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
Authors: Meng Fanming , Han Han , Wang Mo , Jiang Yangshuai , Pi Zhiyun , Qu Yihong , Liu Zhuoying , Cai Jifeng
Published: February 2022

Many flies of Diptera are common entomological evidence employed in forensic investigation. Exploring the existence of inter- and intra-species genomic differences of forensically relevant insects is of great importance. Aldrichina grahami is a common blow fly species of forensic importance. The present study characterized the gene repertoires of A. grahami, and provides insights into issues related to forensic entomology, such as necrophagous behavior, gene family features, and developmental patterns. Gene families were clustered and classified according to their function in different aspects of the necrophagous lifestyle, generating several gene repertoires. The genes under positive selection pressure and evolutionary changes were screen and identified. Moreover, genes that exhibited potential prediction value in the post mortem interval (PMI) estimation and development of immature stages were subjected to analysis based on the developmental transcriptome. Related insect species were compared at the genomic level to reveal the genes associated with necrophagous behaviors. The expression of selected genes in separated repositories was verified using qPCR. This work was conducted using a high-quality chromosome-level genome assembly of A. grahami and its developmental transcriptome. The findings will facilitate future research on A. grahami and the other forensically important species.
Analysis of spatial point patterns in electron-counting images
Authors: Kodama Tetsuji , Nakashima Yusuke , Akashi Tetsuya , Takahashi Yoshio , Mori Shigeo , Harada Ken
Published: February 2022

In this study, the spatial counting statistics of free electron beams, which were released via field emission from cold metal and propagated through a vacuum region, were investigated to examine the normal functioning of the counting equipment for electron correlation spectroscopy. The beam electrons were recorded separately according to the locations of individual events as they reached the direct detection transmission Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) sensor. We examined the spatial point patterns arising from the locations of the individual events of each primary electron being detected in the case of electrons in a state in which the wave function is constant on the sensor. The quadrat method, which compares the observed frequencies of the number of electron counts in the subsets of the study region with the predicted frequencies from a Poisson distribution, indicates a clustering-type departure from complete spatial randomness. To explore some of the basic principles governing the location of coherent electrons being counted, Ripley’s K-function and the corresponding L-function of a stationary spatial point process were used to test the complete spatial randomness from the data. The maximum peak in the average of the L-functions was sensitive only to the mean counts per frame. Thus, clustering of spatial point patterns may result from abnormalities in the direct detection camera. When the interaction of the beam electrons with the sensor is included in the simulation, there is a reasonable match between the average of the L-functions and the experimental curves with the theoretically simulated curves.
Realist Review of Care Models That Include Primary Care for Adult Childhood Cancer Survivors
Authors: Snyder Claire , Choi Youngjee , Smith Katherine C , Wilson Renee F , Yuan Christina T , Nathan Paul C , Zhang Allen , Robinson Karen A
Published: February 2022

Appropriate models of survivorship care for the growing number of adult survivors of childhood cancer are unclear. We conducted a realist review to describe how models of care that include primary care and relevant resources (eg, tools, training) could be effective for adult survivors of childhood cancer. We first developed an initial program theory based on qualitative literature (studies, commentaries, opinion pieces) and stakeholder consultations. We then reviewed quantitative evidence and consulted stakeholders to refine the program theory and develop and refine context-mechanism-outcome hypotheses regarding how models of care that include primary care could be effective for adult survivors of childhood cancer. Effectiveness for both resources and models is defined by survivors living longer and feeling better through high-value care. Intermediate measures of effectiveness evaluate the extent to which survivors and providers understand the survivor’s history, risks, symptoms and problems, health-care needs, and available resources. Thus, the models of care and resources are intended to provide information to survivors and/or primary care providers to enable them to obtain/deliver appropriate care. The variables from our program theory found most consistently in the literature include oncology vs primary care specialty, survivor and provider knowledge, provider comfort treating childhood cancer survivors, communication and coordination between and among providers and survivors, and delivery/receipt of prevention and surveillance of late effects. In turn, these variables were prominent in our context-mechanism-outcome hypotheses. The findings from this realist review can inform future research to improve childhood cancer survivorship care and outcomes.
Line-strengths in early-type galaxies
Authors: Gorgas J , Efstathiou G , Aragón Salamanca A
Published: February 2022

We have analysed Mg, H/β and Fe line-strengths in a sample of elliptical, SO and brightest cluster galaxies. For 15 galaxies, our spectra extend to approximately the half-light radius (re), and we are able to measure radial line-strength gradients. The metallic line-strength gradients vary markedly from object to object, and do not correlate strongly with parameters such as total luminosity and rotation, though we find some evidence that gradients in the Mg2 index correlate with central velocity dispersion and central line-strength. The highly variable line-strength gradients in early-type galaxies shows that they have experienced different star formation histories. We suggest that this may be explained if they formed by the mergers of subunits in which star formation had proceeded to varying degrees of completion. We find that the line-strengths at r ˜ re in elliptical galaxies are slightly larger than those of metal-rich galactic globulars, suggesting that typical elliptical galaxies have roughly solar abundance at r~re and therefore that most ellipticals have relatively weak abundance gradients. The relative line-strengths in the outer parts of ellipticals differ from those in the nuclei of low-luminosity ellipticals, indicating that these stellar populations do not represent a simple one-parameter family governed by mean metal abundance. We find no significant differences in the central Mg and Fe line-strengths of the brightest cluster galaxies and normal ellipticals with the same central velocity dispersion. However, we find that two cD galaxies show H/β in emission and are also at the centres of the prodigious cooling flows with mass-deposition rates of ≳ 100 M⊙ yr−1. Galaxies with cooling flows have identical Mg and Fe line-strengths to galaxies without cooling flows. We show that this implies that only a small fraction of the total luminosity of cooling flow galaxies could come from ongoing star formation with a normal stellar initial mass function.
High-resolution interstellar and stellar line profiles of stars in the globular cluster M22
Authors: Bates B , Catney M G , Keenan F P
Published: February 2022

High-resolution (˜5 km s−1 FWHM) spectra have been obtained for stars in the globular cluster M22 using the University College London echelle spectrograph (UCLES) at the coudé focus of the AAT. The prime objective was a study of the fine-scale spatial structure of the line-of-sight gas through observations of the Na D lines. Essentially the gas towards the cluster at distance ˜ 6 kpc is concentrated in two components at the approximate velocities (LSR) of + 6 and + 37 km s−1. The lower velocity material is likely to be part of a nearby H I cloud, first mapped in the radio region, in which case the spatial sampling in the present study has a scale < 0.3 pc. The higher velocity gas varies from a single component to a multiple component structure over the angular extent of the cluster. The distance to this material is less certain but it may be associated with the Sagittarius arm. New observations are presented also for the stellar Hα and Na D lines. Time variability of Hα emission and Na D line asymmetry are detected for two stars. The present data are in qualitative agreement with models for mass loss occurring in expanding, circumstellar envelopes.
Oscillatory convection in sunspot umbrae
Authors: Weiss N O , Brownjohn D P , Hurlburt N E , Proctor M R E
Published: February 2022

Subphotospheric convection is partially inhibited by the strong vertical magnetic field at the centre of a sunspot. We investigate the effects of stratification on non-linear magnetoconvection in a fully compressible perfect gas by means of two-dimensional numerical experiments. Behaviour depends critically on the ratio ξ of the magnetic to the thermal diffusivity, which increases with depth. If ξ > 1 throughout the layer we find steady overturning convection with an asymmetry between rising and falling plumes. For ξ > 1 we obtain oscillatory convection with reversals of the flow. When ξ > 1 at the top of the layer but ξ > 1 at its base, convection sets in as steady motion but there is a transition (involving several bifurcations) to mixed-mode periodic solutions as the Rayleigh number is increased. The flow at the bottom of the layer does not reverse but adjacent rising plumes alternate between active and quiescent states. In the umbral photosphere t, > 1 but ξ > 1 at depths below 1500 km owing to the increase in opacity. Our results imply that time-dependent convection immediately below the photosphere is coupled to motion at levels where ξ > 1. They also explain the existence of umbral dots with a lifetime corresponding to the Alfven time for the converting layer.
Can elliptical galaxies be formed by merging of spirals?
Authors: Vedel Henrik , Sommer-Larsen Jesper
Published: February 2022

It is shown, on the basis of the mixing theorem, that normal elliptical galaxies cannot form through dissipationless merging of pure stellar discs, but that the inclusion of a modest bulge component in the disc galaxy models overcomes the problem with respect to phase space density constraints. The bulge-to-disc ratios required are found to be in the range 0.1—0.5; the smaller the systems, the higher the bulge-to-disc ratio needed. We stress that not only phase space density, but also space density constraints, are of relevance in the dissipationless merging scenario.
The distribution of cometary magnitudes
Authors: Donnison J R
Published: February 2022

The distribution of magnitudes for long-period comets with P > 200 yr, intermediate period comets with 15 < P < 200 yr and short-period comets with P < 15 yr were analysed using a maximum likelihood method. It was found that the intermediate comets and short-period comets appear to be distinct cometary populations. On breaking the short-period comets down into smaller period ranges it was found that there was no difference in the brightness distribution indices, confirming that they are all likely to be members of the same population. The long-period comets with P > 200 yr were divided by perihelion distance and also by discovery date. It was found that the brightness distribution does not vary significantly with perihelion distance. The comets discovered during the period 568–1830, however, have a statistically different distribution index from those discovered in the period 1830–1978, giving clear evidence for the presence of observational selection in the earlier observations. Only the more recent observations should be employed in statistical studies. Comparison of the indices for the short-period comets and the long-period comets show that they are not significantly different. A common ancestry for these two groups cannot therefore be ruled out.
HKG: an open genetic variant database of 205 Hong Kong cantonese exomes
Authors: Ou Min , Leung Henry Chi-Ming , Leung Amy Wing-Sze , Luk Ho-Ming , Yan Bin , Liu Chi-Man , Tong Tony Ming-For , Mok Myth Tsz-Shun , Ko Wallace Ming-Yuen , Law Wai-Chun , Lam Tak-Wah , Lo Ivan Fai-Man , Luo Ruibang
Published: February 2022

HKG is the first fully accessible variant database for Hong Kong Cantonese, constructed from 205 novel whole-exome sequencing data. There has long been a research gap in the understanding of the genetic architecture of southern Chinese subgroups, including Hong Kong Cantonese. HKG detected 196 325 high-quality variants with 5.93% being novel, and 25 472 variants were found to be unique in HKG compared to three Chinese populations sampled from 1000 Genomes (CHN). PCA illustrates the uniqueness of HKG in CHN, and the admixture study estimated the ancestral composition of HKG and CHN, with a gradient change from north to south, consistent with their geological distribution. ClinVar, CIViC and PharmGKB annotated 599 clinically significant variants and 360 putative loss-of-function variants, substantiating our understanding of population characteristics for future medical development. Among the novel variants, 96.57% were singleton and 6.85% were of high impact. With a good representation of Hong Kong Cantonese, we demonstrated better variant imputation using reference with the addition of HKG data, thus successfully filling the data gap in southern Chinese to facilitate the regional and global development of population genetics.
XAF1 directs glioma response to temozolomide through apoptotic transition of autophagy by activation of ATM–AMPK signaling
Authors: Lee Min-Goo , Choi Zisun , Lim Na-Jung , Lim Ji-Sun , Lee Kyung-Woo , Ko Kyung-Phil , Ryu Byung-Kyu , Kang Shin-Hyuk , Chi Sung-Gil
Published: February 2022

Background

X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis-associated factor 1 (XAF1) is a tumor suppressor that is commonly inactivated in multiple human cancers. However, its role in the pathogenesis and therapeutic response of glioma is poorly characterized.

Methods

XAF1 activation by temozolomide (TMZ) and its effect on TMZ cytotoxicity were defined using luciferase reporter, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence assays. Signaling mechanism was analyzed using genetic and pharmacologic experiments. In vivo studies were performed in mice to validate the role of XAF1 in TMZ therapy.

Results

Epigenetic alteration of XAF1 is frequent in cell lines and primary tumors and contributes to cancer cell growth. XAF1 transcription is activated by TMZ via JNK–IRF-1 signaling to promote apoptosis while it is impaired by promoter hypermethylation. In tumor cells expressing high O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), XAF1 response to TMZ is debilitated. XAF1 facilitates TMZ-mediated autophagic flux to direct an apoptotic transition of protective autophagy. Mechanistically, XAF1 is translocated into the mitochondria to stimulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM)–AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling. A mutant XAF1 lacking the zinc finger 6 domain fails to localize in the mitochondria and activate ROS–ATM–AMPK signaling and autophagy-mediated apoptosis. XAF1-restored xenograft tumors display a reduced growth rate and enhanced therapeutic response to TMZ, which is accompanied with activation of ATM–AMPK signaling. XAF1 expression is associated with overall survival of TMZ treatment patients, particularly with low MGMT cancer.

Conclusions

This study uncovers an important role for the XAF1–ATM–AMPK axis as a linchpin to govern glioma response to TMZ therapy.