bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre-intervention left ventricular mechanical dispersion is increased in patients in need for pacemaker after TAVI
Authors: Kaya E , Klaeboe LG , Aaberge L , Haugaa KH , Edvardsen T , Skulstad H
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background and Purpose

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) is an effective therapy for patients with severe aortic stenosis. Complete atrioventricular block (AVB) that requires permanent pacemaker treatment is a common complication of TAVI and it is reported in up to one fifth of patients. Prediction of this complication could be important. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) and left ventricular mechanical dispersion (LVMD) by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) are novel techniques that detect subtle changes in myocardial function and are related to myocardial fibrosis. Thus, we aimed to investigate the association between LVMD and AVB development after TAVI.

Methods

We retrospectively screened 168 consecutive patients after TAVI. Patients with abnormal ECG and changed conduction pre- and post-TAVI were excluded. Data from the remaining 61 patients were compared to the group of 16 patients in need for a permanent pacemaker. Baseline echocardiograms recorded before TAVI were used to assess GLS and LVMD by STE (Figure).

Results

Of the 77 patients analysed, 60% were female (82 ± 7 years old). The mean GLS values were -16.8 ± 4.2% and -16.9 ± 3.7% in AVB and no AVB groups, respectively (p = 0.9). The mean LVMD was 60 ± 19 ms in AVB group and 50 ± 16 ms in no-AVB group (p = 0.04). (Table)

Conclusion

LVMD was increased in patients who developed TAVI-induced complete AVB, while GLS could not differentiate between post-procedural normal and abnormal electrical conduction. This finding may be important to identify myocardial properties associated with complete AVB after TAVI. Abstract Table  Abstract Figure
Feasibility and reproducibility of auto-strain analysis in a healthy Spanish paediatric population
Authors: Aristizabal Duque C , Fernandez Cabeza J , Blancas Sanchez IM , Delgado Ortega M , Aparicio Martinez P , Romero Saldana M , Fonseca Del Pozo FJ , Pan Alvarez-Osorio M , Ruiz Ortiz M , Mesa Rubio MD
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

The analysis of systolic-diastolic function by two-dimensional ultrasound speckle-tracking strain (2DSTE) in the paediatric population is becoming progressively more available, its use can be helpful in the diagnosis of subclinical pathology in paediatric disease, both in acquired cardiovascular pathology, congenital heart disease and especially in cardio-oncology(1-4). For this purpose,  a reliable, reproducible, and easy-to-use technique is required(5).

Purpose

To assess the feasibility and reproducibility of the strain using the software of newest software based on artificial intelligence, of one of the widely available companies in our environment.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out in a population in Andalusia, Spain. Of 265 children who agreed to participate, 156 healthy children aged 6-17 years were selected by excluding congenital or acquired heart disease. Analysis using the new auto-strain software for the left ventricle, right ventricle, and left atrium. Feasibility and gender differences were assessed. As well as inter- and Inter-observer variability.

Results

 The feasibility of the auto-strain measurement ranged from 94.2% for left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) to 98.1% for other chamber strain parameters. No differences were found in matters of gender (Table 1). Excellent intra- and interobserver reproducibility was found for the measurement of right and left ventricular strain (intraclass correlation coefficients ranged between 0.88 and 0.98, respectively). (Table 2)

Conclusions

 The strain analysis by auto-strain was both highly feasible and reproducible using this new software. Abstract Figure.  Abstract Figure.
Performance of non-invasive myocardial work to predict the first hospitalization for de novo heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)
Authors: Paolisso P , Gallinoro E , Mileva N , Moya A , Fabbricatore D , Esposito G , De Colle C , Spapen J , Heggermont W , Collet C , Van Camp G , Vanderheyden M , Barbato E , Bartunek J , Penicka M
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Dr. Paolisso, Dr. Esposito, Dr. Fabbricatore are supported by a research grant from the CardioPaTh PhD Program of University of Naples Federico II

Background

Non-invasive myocardial work (MW) is a validated index of left ventricular (LV) systolic performance, incorporating afterload and myocardial metabolism. The role of MW in predicting the first hospitalization for de novo heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is still unknown.

Purpose

To investigate the diagnostic performance of MW to predict the first de novo HFpEF hospitalization in ambulatory individuals with preserved LVEF.

Methods

Twenty-nine patients with trans-thoracic echocardiography performed at least 6 months before the first HFpEF hospitalization were compared with 29 matched controls. MW was derived as the area of pressure-strain loop using speckle-tracking and brachial artery blood pressure. Global work index (GWI), global constructive work (GCW), global wasted work (GWW), and global work efficiency (GWE) were collected. First HFpEF hospitalization and its combination with cardiovascular death (MACE) and all-cause of death (MAE) were assessed.

Results

At baseline, future HFpEF patients showed lower GWI, GCW, GWE and higher GWW than controls (all p < 0.05).  At admission versus baseline, GWE significantly decreased, and GWW increased in the HFpEF group (p < 0.05), whereas no significant difference was observed in the controls over time. GWW, with a cut-off of 170 mmHg%, showed the largest AUC to predict first HFpEF hospitalization (AUC = 0.80, 95% CI 0.69–0.91, p < 0.001), MACE (AUC = 0.80, 95% CI 0.66–0.90, p < 0.001) and MAE (AUC = 0.79, 95% CI 0.62–0.88, p = 0.001). GWW > 170 mmHg% was associated with a 4-fold increase of MACE (HR = 4.5, 95% CI 1.59–13.12, p = 0.005) and a 3-fold higher risk of MAE (HR = 2.9, 95% CI 1.24–6.6, p = 0.014).

Conclusions

In ambulatory patients with preserved LVEF and risk factors, GWW showed high accuracy to predict the first HFpEF hospitalization and its combination with mortality. The GWW routine assessment may be clinically helpful in patients with dyspnea. Abstract Figure 1: Serial changes of LARs, LV GLS  Abstract Figure 2:Kaplan–Meier survival curves fo
Effect of interventional edge-to-edge repair in tricuspid regurgitation on dimensions of the annulus
Authors: Goebel B , Salomon C , Abdulrahman M , Richter S , El Garhy M , Costello-Boerrigter L , Lapp H , Lauten P
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

The technique of percutaneous tricuspid valve edge-to-edge repair (pTVR) depends upon the connection of leaflets in the area of regurgitation using a coaptation device. By closing the coaptation device a considerable tractive force is applied on the leaflets, which might have an effect on the valve annulus. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of device implantation on tricuspid annular dimensions.

Methods

During pTVR, 3D zoom loops of the tricuspid valve (TV) were acquired before and after clip placement using transesophageal echocardiography. Measurements of TV annular dimensions included the following parameters: annulus area (TV area), maximal diameter, minimal diameter, and eccentricity index (Figure 1). Tenting area was derived from a four-chamber view of the valve. Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) severity was graded from 1+ to 5+ by measuring vena contracta area (VCA3D) in 3D full volume color Doppler loop using multiplanar reconstruction.  Right atrial (RA) and ventricular volumes (RVVd3D, RVVs3D) and function (RVEF3D) were assessed in a 3D full volume loop.

Results

The study population consisted of 97 patients (age 78 ± 6 years, 47 male), undergoing pTVR at our hospital. As expected, cavity dimension correlated with TV area size (for RVVd3D r = 0.51, p < 0.001 and for RA volume r = 0.71, p < 0.001). The mean TV annular area was significantly reduced (Annular area 8.53 ± 2.23 cm²/m²BSA vs. 7.55 ± 2.18 cm²/m²BSA, p < 0.001) and the shape of the annulus became more oval (Eccentricity index 1.2 ± 0.15 vs. 1.29 ± 0.17, p < 0.001) after pTVR. The reduction in annular area (12 ± 7%, range 0.7-28%) was only modestly correlated with the number of implanted coaptation devices (r = 0.30, p < 0.001) and the percentage reduction of VCA3D (r =0.36, p < 0.001). In the patient group with an annular area change ≥12%, a decrease in TR grade to ≤2+ by pTVR was achieved in 83% of cases, whereas only 62% of patients achieved moderate TR when the change in area was below 12%.

Conclusion

  pTVR using coaptation devices reduces the area of the TV annulus. This effect may be modestly correlated to the number of devices implanted. Abstract Figure.
Automatic measurement of LV wall thickness from 2D cardiac echocardiography
Authors: Fernandes JF , Loncaric F , Marciniak M , Gilbert A , Smistad E , Lovstakken L , Mcleod K , Sitges M , Lamata P
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): PIC from European Union"s Horizon 2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions ITN

Background

The wall thickness of the left ventricle (LV) is an important parameter in the diagnosis of hypertension and more specifically in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. A user-dependent manual assessment of distances on 2D echocardiographic images is the current clinical gold-standard.

Purpose

The automation of LV wall thickness measurements in 2D echocardiography in order to improve robustness and reduce time of clinical reports where wall thickness is required, such as hypertrophy and the presence of Basal Septal Hypertrophy (BSH)(1).

Methods

A dataset of 4-chamber (4CH) echocardiograms on 118 patients with a diagnosis of hypertension (2) is used for this study. The images were segmented automatically (3) extracting the blood pool and the myocardium. Based on the curvature of the complete myocardial contour, the valve annular regions are removed leaving the endocardial and the epicardial walls as independent structures. The wall thickness along the myocardium is calculated as the distance from each endocardial border pixel to the closest epicardial point  (see Figure 1). A high pass gaussian filter was applied to remove high frequency noise. Ultimately, the basal-to-mid septal wall thickness ratio that defines BSH (ratio ≥ 1.4) was computed as the maximal of basal-septal segment divided by minimum of mid-septal segment. In order to validate the method for BSH detection, the wall thickness septal ratio was carefully measured by a clinical expert following the guidelines (2). The statistical agreement was accessed via linear correlation and Bland-Altman analysis.

Results

The automatic assessment of LV wall thickness along the myocardium is feasible in 2D echocardiography. The septal ratio showed an excellent agreement with manual measurements (R2 = 0.94, bias=-0.01, see Figure 2), leading to a detection of BSH in n = 19 vs the n = 18 detected manually (1 false-negative and 2 false-positives). In comparison to the intra and inter-observer variabilities of 12% and 42% respectively in the manual measurement (4), the automatic method had no variability for a given image acquisition.

Conclusions

The automatic measurement of myocardial wall thickness from a 2D echocardiographic images is accurate and reproducible. The implementation of the methodology in clinical practise has the potential to improve and automate the assessment of hypertrophic cardiac conditions. Abstract Figure. Pipeline for automatic measurement of WT  Abstract Figure. Agreement of BSH WT ratio
Acute and chronic changes in LV performance in patients with secondary severe mitral regurgitation undergoing percutaneous mitral valve repair
Authors: Galli E , Hubert P , Panis V , L"official G , Vely M , Donal E
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

The non-invasive assessment of myocardial work allows to evaluate left ventricular (LV) performance by considering the effect of LV load on LV deformation. Aim of this study is to evaluate the acute and chronic impact of percutaneous mitral valve repair (PMVR) on LV function, in patients with severe secondary mitral regurgitation (SMR).

Methods and Results

41 patients (age: 69 ± 10 years, females: 29%) with severe SMR (effective regurgitant orifice: 0.42 ± 0.16 cm2, regurgitant volume: 65 ± 325 ml) underwent PMVR according to current recommendations. Myocardial work indices were evaluated before the procedure, 2 days after the procedure and at 1-year follow-up.  PMVR was associated with an acute reduction in LV ejection fraction (LVEF), global longitudinal strain (GLS), and myocardial constructive work (MCW) and with a significant increase in myocardial wasted work (MWW). 1-year after the procedure, we did not observe significant LV reverse remodeling. GWE remained significantly impaired despite the small improvement in GCW, which can explain the absence of improvement in MWE and GLS. Interestingly, LVEF modestly increased compared with the post-procedural values, but remained significantly reduced compared to baseline values (Table1).

Conclusions

In patients severe SMR undergoing PMVR, the acute reduction in LV preload causes a significant impairment of all parameters of LV performance. After 1-year, the absence of LV reverse remodelling is associated a significant impairment in GWW, without substantial improvement in the remaining parameters of LV function. Abstract Figure.
Impact of severe mitral annular calcification on mitral regurgitation after transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Calvao J , Costa C , Amador A , Pinto R , Carvalho M , Proenca T , Marques C , Cabrita A , Grilo P , Resende C , Torres S , Sousa C , Macedo F
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Introduction

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become the standard of care treatment in patients with severe aortic stenosis who are at intermediate or high risk for surgical aortic valve replacement. Mitral annular calcification (MAC) is frequent in patients with aortic stenosis, and its presence is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Not infrequently, it is associated with significant morphologic and functional abnormalities of the mitral valve apparatus.

Purpose

 The aim of this work is to evaluate the relationship between severe MAC and the presence and development of significant mitral regurgitation after TAVI.

Methods

 We retrospectively analyzed all patients who underwent TAVI at a tertiary center from October 2014 to November 2019. Clinical, echocardiographic and procedure-related data were collected until a follow-up of 6 months. Statistical analysis was conducted on IBM SPSS® Statistics software. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all variables. Sample T-test, Chi-square and Wilcoxon sign test were used. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. The presence and severity of MAC was defined according to echocardiographic data. Severe MAC was defined by the presence of calcification of more than half of the mitral annular circumference.

Results

 A total of 343 patients were enrolled in the study. The mean age of the population was 80 ± 8 years, 45% were male. Mean functional area was 0.75 ± 0.18 cm2, mean transvalvular pressure gradient was 48 ± 15 mmHg and the mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 54 ± 14%.  MAC was detected in 231 (67%) patients. In 44 (19%) of these patients, MAC was graded as severe. Patients with severe MAC tended to have higher prevalence of moderate (27.3 vs 20.4%, p = 0.30) as well as severe (4.5 vs 1.8%, p = 0.24) mitral regurgitation at baseline. After TAVI, the prevalence of moderate mitral regurgitation at 6 months was similar between both groups (22.5 vs 20.4%, p = 0.76). Although not reaching statistical significance, patients with severe MAC had higher prevalence of severe mitral regurgitation at 6 months post-procedure (12.2 VS 5.0%, p = 0.07) as well as higher incidence of worsening of mitral regurgitation (34.2 vs 23.7%, p = 0.16). The proportion of patients that had improvement (13.2 vs 15.0%, p = 0.76) or no change (52.6 vs 61.3%, p = 0.31) in the degree of mitral regurgitation was similar in both groups. 

Conclusion

 The presence of severe MAC at baseline echocardiography in patients undergoing TAVI may be associated with worsening of mitral regurgitation after the procedure. These patients tend to have higher prevalence of severe mitral regurgitation post-TAVI. Further studies are needed in order to further elucidate this association.
Sex differences in patients with takotsubo syndrome
Authors: Budnik M , Piatkowski R , Ochijewicz D , Zaleska M , Glowczynska R , Grabowski M , Opolski G
Published: February 2022

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

OnBehalf

Pol-tako

Introduction 

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is an acute revesible left ventricular dysfunction which occurs mainly in postmenopausal women. Despite the fact that the most patients with TTS are postmenopausal women and the possible patomechanism is related to female hormones, including estrogens, men also suffer from TTS. 

Objectives 

The goal of this study was to compare course of disease and prognoses in male and female patients with TTS. 

Patients and Methods 

The analysis included 210 patients (192 women and 18 men) hospitalized at the academic hospital from the year 2006 to 2020. 

Results 

Physical stress was trigger of TTS more often in men than women (50 vs. 38%). There were no differences in the frequency of risk factors and comorbidities, with the exception of higher prevalence of smoking in men. Markers of cardiac necrosis were similar in both groups.  At admission and peak NTproBNP levels were significantly more elevated in women (1527 vs. 3152 and 3752 vs. 5079pg/ml, respectively).  ST depression was found more frequently in men than in women (22 vs. 5%). Ejection fraction was lower among male patients at discharge (50 vs. 60%), despite the same length of hospitalization. Beta-adrenolytics and statins were more frequently prescribed for women than for men (90 vs 78% and 68 vs. 31%) whereas ACEI was prescribed in 96% men and 79% women. Moreover, there was P2Y12 inhibitors were more often used in men (33 vs 10.4%). In-hospital complications (arrhytmias, mechanical complications, cardiogenic shock) were similar in both groups. However, mortality rate was higher in women (3 vs. 0%).  

Conclusions 

Clinical course in patients with TTS is similar in women and men. However, in-hospital mortality was higher in women.
The Remote Assessment and Dynamic Response Program: Development of an In-Home Dementia-Related Care Needs Assessment to Improve Well-Being
Authors: Miller Lyndsey M , Solomon Diane N , Whitlatch Carol J , Hiatt Shirin O , Wu Chao-Yi , Reynolds Christina , Au-Yeung Wan-Tai Michael , Kaye Jeffrey , Steele Joel S
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives

The Remote Assessment and Dynamic Response (READyR) Program was developed in order to address the current lack of early-stage dementia care planning programs that assess the care needs of persons with dementia. The goal was to create a program informed by care values and ongoing ecologically valid data. The objectives of this study are to describe the development and design process of the READyR Program, and to evaluate the utility of the READyR Program for identifying dementia-related care needs.

Research Design and Methods

A prototype of the web-based READyR Program tool was first created using digital activity data that were collected by previous studies using a platform of multimodal sensors installed in the homes of older adult couples with and without dementia. Digital activity data were then mapped onto potential care values (e.g., safety & autonomy) to create a values-based needs assessment that is tailored to the individual care dyad. Next, evaluation of the READyR Program by 11 professional dementia care coordinators and case managers (across 3 semistructured focus groups) was used to explore the utility of READyR for assessing dementia-related needs. Qualitative description using conventional content analysis was used to iteratively code focus group data and to describe prevalent themes.

Results

Prevalent focus groups themes included barriers to (e.g., family relationship strain) and facilitators of (e.g., tailored assessments) the optimal process for assessing dementia-related care needs by care coordinators, as well as advantages to (e.g., providing new objective insights into function, and routines) and disadvantages of (e.g., bringing up new questions about care) incorporating the remote monitoring data into a values-based needs assessment.

Discussion and Implications

READyR has the potential to help family members, as well as care coordinators and providers, gain insight into the values-based care needs of persons with early-stage dementia.

Clinical Trials Registration Number: NCT04542109
Integration of genomics, transcriptomics and metabolomics identifies candidate loci underlying fruit weight in loquat
Authors: Peng Ze , Zhao Chongbin , Li Shuqing , Guo Yihan , Xu Hongxia , Hu Guibing , Liu Zongli , Chen Xiuping , Chen Junwei , Lin Shunquan , Su Wenbing , Yang Xianghui
Published: February 2022

Fruit weight is an integral part of fruit quality and directly influences the commodity value and economic return of fruit crops. Despite the importance of fruit weight, its underlying molecular mechanisms remain understudied, especially for perennial fruit tree crops such as cultivated loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.). Auxin is known to regulate fruit development, but its role and metabolism during the development of loquat fruit remain obscure. In this study, we used a multi-omics approach, integrating whole-genome resequencing-based quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping with an F1 population, population genomics analysis using germplasm accessions, transcriptome analysis, and metabolic profiling to identify genomic regions potentially associated with fruit weight in loquat. We identified three major loci associated with fruit weight, supported by both QTL mapping and comparative genomic analysis between small- and large-fruited loquat cultivars. Comparison between two genotypes with contrasting fruit weight performance by transcriptomic and metabolic profiling revealed an important role for auxin in the regulation of fruit development, especially at the fruit enlargement stage. The multi-omics approach identified homologs of ETHYLENE INSENSITIVE 4 (EjEIN4) and TORNADO 1 (EjTRN1) as promising candidates for the control of fruit weight. Three single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers were also closely associated with fruit weight. Results from this study provide insights into the genetic and metabolic controls of fruit weight in loquat from multiple perspectives. The candidate genomic regions, genes, and sequence variants will facilitate our understanding of the molecular basis of fruit weight and lay a foundation for future breeding and manipulation of fruit weight in loquat.
Airway Management in Pediatric Patients With Burn Contractures of the Face and Neck
Authors: Unal Dilek , Sumak Hazir Melis
Published: February 2022

Burn injury is a common cause of trauma. Non-fatal burn injuries are a leading cause of morbidity, and significant numbers of the victims are children. Scar contracture after burn injury can cause severe functional limitation, pain, and aesthetic and psychological problems and patients may present for contracture release and reconstructive surgery. The aim of this systematic review was to identify research relevant to airway management of children with burn contracture of the face and neck with special emphasis on awake airway management and airway anesthesia, and synthesize results that can aid practice. Literature search was performed on Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar with selected keywords. The search was restricted to human subjects of ≤18 year age, there was no language or time restriction, and the final search was concluded in July 2021. The review included 41 articles involving airway management of 56 patients in 61 anesthesia episodes. Patients aged between 8 months to 18 years. Mask ventilation and direct laryngoscopy, video laryngoscopy, optical stylet, supraglottic airway, flexible scope intubation and tracheostomy, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation were the devices and methods used for securing the airway and oxygenation while the patients were awake or after anesthesia induction. Detailed planning and patient preparation are the fundamentals of airway management of pediatric patients with burn contracture of the face and neck; awake airway management with airway anesthesia can be safely used in selected patients. This review provides information for good clinical practice and might serve to improve the care of such children.
Radiative transfer in axisymmetric dust clouds
Authors: Efstathiou Andreas , Rowan-Robinson Michael
Published: February 2022

In this paper we present a method of solution of the equation of radiative transfer for an axisymmetric distribution of dust around a central source. There is abundant observational evidence that points towards the existence of flattened density structures around a wide range of systems of astrophysical interest such as protostars, stars with circumstellar dust shells, reflection nebulae, active galactic nuclei and starburst galaxies. Results obtained with spherically symmetric models are clearly inappropriate in these cases and earlier attempts to solve the axisymmetric problem adopt simplifying assumptions that do not allow realistic modelling. The programme we have developed integrates the equation of radiative transfer exactly in the sense that it does not neglect any terms in the equation and treats multiple anisotropic scattering. The emergent spectral energy and intensity distributions are obtained for different viewing angles for models with different density distributions and optical depths. The method applies to an arbitrary density distribution, but in this paper we are presenting models of clouds in which the thickness of the disc increases linearly with distance from the central source and the disc is symmetric about the equatorial plane. The density is assumed to decline with radius as r−2 and with a power-law dependence on azimuthal angle Θ.

We also present a model that gives an excellent fit to the spectrum of VY CMa, a late M supergiant which has long been thought to be surrounded by a circumstellar disc. The model predicts an unusual viewing angle, just inside the surface of the flared disc.
Kynurenine pathway of tryptophan metabolism in patients with familial Mediterranean fever
Authors: Tezcan Dilek , Onmaz Duygu Eryavuz , Sivrikaya Abdullah , Körez Muslu Kazım , Hakbilen Selda , Gülcemal Semral , Yılmaz Sema
Published: February 2022

Background

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autoinflammatory syndrome characterized by recurrent episodes of fever and aseptic polyserositis. Subclinical inflammation generates a hidden threat to the development of FMF complications such as amyloidosis in attack-free intervals. The kynurenine pathway (KP) has been considered an important player in inflammation and immune response. The study was aimed to measure serum levels of KP metabolites in patients with FMF in the attack-free period.

Methods

A total of 161 participants were recruited from the rheumatology department in this single-centre, case–control study. Participants meeting the eligibility criteria were divided into healthy controls (n = 80) and FMF (n = 81). The laboratory data were obtained from the electronic registration database. Serum tryptophan (TRP), kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KYNA), 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, 3-hydroxykynurenine (3HK), and quinolinic acid (QUIN) concentrations were measured with tandem mass spectrometry. Laboratory findings of FMF patients and healthy controls subjects were compared and evaluated.

Results

Serum TRP and KYNA levels were significantly decreased in both FMF groups compared to the control group, while the levels of KYN, QUIN, 3HK, the KYN/TRP ratio, and red cell distribution width were higher.

Conclusion

TRP degradation by the KP is increased in patients with FMF. KP metabolites can be useful in demonstrating subclinical inflammation.
Board Invited Review: Crossbreeding beef × dairy cattle for the modern beef production system
Authors: Basiel Bailey L , Felix Tara L
Published: February 2022

Current trends in the United States dairy industry suggest that crossbred beef × dairy calves are replacing a proportion of the calf-fed Holstein steers slaughtered for beef each year. Economic pressures value preweaned beef × dairy calves at a premium over preweaned dairy bull calves; however, there is little modern data to support that intensively fed crossbred calves maintain their premium value over dairy steers across the supply chain. Data from international production systems and from historic research suggests that beef × dairy cattle had greater average daily gains and converted feed to gain more efficiently than dairy steers. Regarding carcass characteristics, across the literature crossbreds consistently yielded heavier carcasses that had lower proportions of trim than dairy steers. Fewer comparisons of beef × dairy and dairy steers exist in the literature for other economically relevant carcass characteristics such as ribeye area, backfat, marbling, tenderness, and eating quality. Existing published data are inconsistent among studies, highlighting the necessity for more research tailored to the United States beef production system
Eveningness intensifies the association between musculoskeletal pain and health-related quality of life: a Northern Finland Birth Cohort Study 1966
Authors: Heikkala Eveliina , Paananen Markus , Merikanto Ilona , Karppinen Jaro , Oura Petteri
Published: February 2022

People with an evening (E)-type preference (ie, chronotype) experience musculoskeletal (MSK) pain and reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL) more often than morning (M) types. Musculoskeletal pain is a well-established contributor to reduced HRQoL. This study aimed to evaluate whether eveningness amplifies the association between MSK pain and HRQoL in contrast to morningness. Questionnaire data on MSK pain dimensions (intensity, disability at work, number of pain sites [NPSs], and frequency), chronotype, covariates (sex, sufficiency of sleep duration, mental distress, and presence of coexisting diseases), and HRQoL (measured by 15D) were collected among 46-year-old individuals belonging to the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966 (N = 4257). Individuals without any MSK pain were excluded. General linear models were conducted to estimate the associations between chronotypes, MSK pain dimensions, and HRQoL. The interaction terms (chronotype × pain dimension) were tested in the models. There were 13% E-types and 43% M-types in the study sample. Each pain dimension and chronotype were related to HRQoL. In the sex-adjusted chronotype-specific models, the reduction in HRQoL in relation to pain appeared to be stronger among E-types than among M-types in respect to all pain dimensions. After adjustments, this was particularly seen in terms of NPS and pain frequency. Our findings suggest that eveningness intensifies the association between MSK pain and HRQoL, and, thus, they are indicative of E-types being more sensitive than M-types to the consequences of MSK pain. As such, MSK pain treatment and rehabilitation actions to improve HRQoL should be especially targeted at E-types.
Adaptive evolution of major histocompatibility complex class I immune genes and disease associations in coastal juvenile sea turtles
Authors: Martin Katherine R. , Mansfield Katherine L. , Savage Anna E.
Published: February 2022

Characterizing polymorphism at the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes is key to understanding the vertebrate immune response to disease. Despite being globally afflicted by the infectious tumour disease fibropapillomatosis (FP), immunogenetic variation in sea turtles is minimally explored. We sequenced theα1peptide-binding region of MHC class I genes (162 bp) from 268 juvenile green (Chelonia mydas) and 88 loggerhead (Caretta caretta) sea turtles in Florida, USA. We recovered extensive variation (116 alleles) and trans-species polymorphism. Supertyping analysis uncovered three functional MHC supertypes corresponding to the three well-supported clades in the phylogeny. We found significant evidence of positive selection at seven amino acid sites in the class I exon. Random forest modelling and risk ratio analysis ofCh. mydasalleles uncovered one allele weakly associated with smooth FP tumour texture, which may be associated with disease outcome. Our study represents the first characterization of MHC class I diversity inCh. mydasand the largest sample of sea turtles used to date in any study of adaptive genetic variation, revealing tremendous genetic variation and high adaptive potential to viral pathogen threats. The novel associations we identified between MHC diversity and FP outcomes in sea turtles further highlight the importance of evaluating genetic predictors of disease, including MHC and other functional markers.
Hyperoxia improves repeated-sprint ability and the associated training load in athletes
Authors: Cyr-Kirk Shannon , Billaut François
Published: February 2022

1

This study investigated the impact of hyperoxic gas breathing (HYP) on repeated-sprint ability (RSA) and on the associated training load (TL). Thirteen team- and racquet-sport athletes performed 6-s all-out sprints with 24-s recovery until exhaustion (power decrement ≥ 15% for two consecutive sprints) under normoxic (NOR: FIO2 0.21) and hyperoxic (HYP: FiO2 0.40) conditions in a randomized, single-blind and crossover design. The following variables were recorded throughout the tests: mechanical indices, arterial O2 saturation (SpO2), oxygenation of the vastus lateralis muscle with near-infrared spectroscopy, and electromyographic activity of the vastus lateralis, rectus femoris and gastrocnemius lateralis muscles. Session TL (work x rate of perceived exertion) and neuromuscular efficiency (work/EMG) were calculated. Compared with NOR, HYP increased SpO2 (2.7 ± 0.8%, Cohen’s effect size ES 0.55), the number of sprints (14.5 ± 8.6%, ES 0.28), the total mechanical work (13.6 ± 6.8%, ES 0.30) and the session TL (19.4 ± 7.0%, ES 0.33). Concomitantly, HYP increased the amplitude of muscle oxygenation changes during sprints (25.2 ± 11.7%, ES 0.36) and recovery periods (26.1 ± 11.4%, ES 0.37), as well as muscle recruitment (9.9 ± 12.1%, ES 0.74) and neuromuscular efficiency (6.9 ± 9.0%, ES 0.24). We conclude that breathing a hyperoxic mixture enriched to 40% O2 improves the total work performed and the associated training load during an open-loop RSA session in trained athletes. This ergogenic impact may be mediated by metabolic and neuromuscular alterations.
AI-Generated Virtual Libraries Could Help Uncover RNA-Specific Regions of Chemical Space
Authors: Xu Ziqiao , Frank Aaron T.
Published: February 2022

RNAs can recognize small-molecule ligands. However, the extent to which the molecules that they recognize differ from those recognized by proteins remains an open question. Cheminformatics analysis of experimentally validated RNA binders strongly suggests that RNA binders occupy a specific region of chemical space. However, less than 100 validated small molecule ligands are currently known. Here, we demonstrate how structure-based approaches could be used to navigate vast regions of the chemical space specific to ligand binding sites in five highly-structured RNAs. Our method involves using generative-AI to design target- and site-specific virtual libraries and then analyzing them using similar cheminformatics approaches as those used to assess experimentally validated RNA binders. Despite employing a completely orthogonal strategy, our results essentially reproduce the trends observed by analyzing the experimentally validated RNA binders. Large-scale generation of target and site-specific libraries may therefore prove to be helpful in simultaneously mapping the regions of chemical space unique to RNA and generating libraries that could be mined to identify novel RNA binders.

TOC IMAGE
A chromosome-level phased Citrus sinensis genome facilitates understanding Huanglongbing tolerance mechanisms at the allelic level in an irradiation-induced mutant
Authors: Wu Bo , Yu Qibin , Deng Zhanao , Duan Yongping , Luo Feng , Gmitter Frederick
Published: February 2022

Sweet orange (SWO) originated from introgressive hybridization of pummelo and mandarin resulting in a highly heterozygous genome. Here, we assembled a chromosome-level phased Valencia SWO (DVS) genome with ∼98.5% completeness, high accuracy (QV=50.6), and the highest annotation BUSCO completeness (99.2%) thus far in citrus. DVS harbors a high level of allelic variances and enables study of allelic somatic structural mutations and corresponding allelic expression alteration in two SWO mutants, one with high Huanglongbing tolerance (T19) and one more sensitive (T78). In T78, a large deletion on the pummelo-origin chr8 causes regional allelic expression absence. In T19, seven upregulated genes are located at one terminal of a translocated segment, including three genes related to heat shock protein (HSP) regulation. Furthermore, 68 of 133 HSPs are significantly upregulated in T19, which may be related to its enhanced HLB tolerance by preventing phloem necrosis. The DVS will advance allelic level studies in citrus.
Blocking Gi/o-coupled signaling eradicates cancer stem cells and sensitizes breast tumors to HER2-targeted therapies to inhibit tumor relapse
Authors: Lyu Cancan , Ye Yuanchao , Weigel Ronald J. , Chen Songhai
Published: February 2022

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subpopulation of cells within tumors that are resistant to anti-tumor therapies, making them a likely origin of tumor relapse after treatment. In many cancers including breast cancer, CSC function is regulated by G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), making GPCR signaling an attractive target for new therapies designed to eradicate CSCs. Yet, CSCs overexpress multiple GPCRs that are redundant in maintaining CSC function, so it is unclear how to target all the various GPCRs to prevent relapse. Here, in a model of HER2+ breast cancer (i.e., transgenic MMTV-Neu mice), we were able to block tumorsphere- and tumor-forming capability of CSCs by targeting GPCRs coupled to Gi/o proteins (Gi/o-GPCRs). Similarly, in HER2+ breast cancer cells, blocking signaling downstream of Gi/o-GPCRs in the PI3K/AKT and Src pathways also enhanced HER2-targeted elimination of CSCs. In a proof-of-concept study, when CSCs were selectively ablated (via a suicide gene construct), loss of CSCs from HER2+ breast cancer cell populations mimicked the effect of targeting Gi/o-GPCR signaling, suppressing their capacity for tumor initiation and progression and enhancing HER2-targeted therapy. Thus, targeting Gi/o-GPCR signaling in HER2+ breast cancer is a promising approach for eradicating CSCs, enhancing HER2+ targeted therapy and blocking tumor reemergence.
Role of Covid vaccine in determining ICU admission and death due to Covid-19 in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Selvavinayagam T S , Parthipan K , Subramaniam Sudharshini , Somasundaram A , Sampath P , Kumar Vinay
Published: February 2022

COVID-19 pandemic threatened the world in terms of its rapid spread, strain on health infrastructure and many people lost their lives due to COVID. Mass Vaccination of public against Covid-19 were done with the notion that it protects against the severe form of the disease and death due to Covid-19. Covid vaccination was rolled out in Tamil Nadu from 16th January 2021 in a phased manner. This study was done using secondary data to assess the role of COVID vaccination in preventing ICU admission and death due to Covid-19 in Tamil Nadu for the period of August – December 2021. Unvaccinated individuals contributed to a higher proportion of hospitalization (60.9%) and ICU admission (65.5%) among Covid-19 infected during this period. Similarly, among patients who died due to Covid-19, 75.5% were unvaccinated. Odds of ICU admission and death among unvaccinated was 2.01 and 3.19 - times higher compared to fully vaccinated individuals infected with Covid-19. Unvaccinated Covid-19 patients had 2.73- and 1.46- times increased odds of dying and ICU admission respectively, compared to partially vaccinated. Population Attributable Risk showed that receiving at least one dose of vaccine could have reduced the mortality among Covid patients by 54% and ICU admission by 23.3%. This article emphasizes the need for vaccination against Covid-19 to reduce ICU admission and death among those infected with Covid-19.
Sub-10 nm fluorescence imaging
Authors: Helmerich Dominic A. , Beliu Gerti , Taban Danush , Meub Mara , Streit Marcel , Kuhlemann Alexander , Doose Sören , Sauer Markus
Published: February 2022

Advances in superresolution microscopy demonstrated single-molecule localization precisions of a few nanometers. However, translation of such high localization precisions into sub-10 nm spatial resolution in biological samples remains challenging. Here, we show that resonance energy transfer between fluorophores separated by less than 10 nm results in accelerated fluorescence blinking and consequently lower localization probabilities impeding sub-10 nm fluorescence imaging. We demonstrate that time-resolved fluorescence detection in combination with photoswitching fingerprint analysis can be used advantageously to determine the number and distance even of spatially unresolvable fluorophores in the sub-10 nm range. In combination with genetic code expansion (GCE) with unnatural amino acids and bioorthogonal click-labeling with small fluorophores photoswitching fingerprint analysis enables sub-10 nm resolution fluorescence imaging in cells.
Does the type of sales position matter? A multi-group analysis of inside vs outside sales
Authors: Matthews Lucy , Edmondson Diane
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the differences between inside and outside business-to-business salespeople. Although prior research has highlighted a need to compare these two distinct sales positions, limited research examines the two. Specifically, this study investigates differences between inside and outside salespeople for the following constructs: positivity, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, emotional exhaustion, job satisfaction and turnover intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A Qualtrics panel of 210 business-to-business salespeople from a variety of US industries was used, with 43.8% classifying themselves as inside. Multi-group analysis using partial least squares structural equations modeling (PLS-SEM) was conducted where job type serves as the moderator for the entire model.

Findings

Results indicated four of six significant differences based on position. Specifically, positivity had a significant impact on emotional exhaustion for outside salespeople only. For extrinsic motivation, inside salespeople exhibited a stronger impact on emotional exhaustion. Furthermore, the impact of emotional exhaustion on turnover intentions was stronger for outside salespeople. The impact of job satisfaction on turnover intentions was stronger for inside salespeople. These results are supported by social exchange theory and distraction conflict theory.

Practical implications

This research highlights that sales managers and organizations need to consider different policies based on position type to increase job satisfaction and reduce turnover intentions. Practical guidelines for effectively managing the two positions are provided.

Originality/value

The value of this paper is that it indicates that there are indeed significant differences between these two types of sales positions, and thus, future research should not combine them into a single sample.
Employee’s regulatory focus and intrapreneurship: modeling the mediating role of creative self-efficacy and thriving
Authors: Muavia Muhammad , Hussain Ghulam , Sahibzada Umar Farooq , Wan Ismail Wan Khairuzzaman
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This research aims to investigate the direct and indirect (via creative self-efficacy [CSE] and thriving) effects of regulatory focus (RF) on employee intrapreneurship (EI) in Pakistan’s small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

A time-lagged (six weeks apart) design is used to collect data through self-administered questionnaires. The researchers retrieved 492 usable responses from frontline employees working in SMEs.

Findings

The results showed the positive direct and indirect (via CSE and thriving) effects of promotion focus on EI. As expected, the results showed negative direct and indirect effects of prevention focus on intrapreneurship. The follow-up analysis revealed the mediating effect of CSE is stronger for the promotion focus and intrapreneurship, and the mediating effect of thriving is stronger for prevention focus and intrapreneurship.

Practical implications

This study reveals the importance of RF facets as important predictors of EI. The study highlights the importance of intrapreneurship in emerging economies, but expecting such behavior from every employee is a fallacy. Thus, decision-makers in organizations can nurture prevention-focused employees to engage in intrapreneurship.

Originality/value

This is a pioneer study to include RF (promotion focus and prevention focus) in an emerging country – Pakistan – to reveal its significance in EI. It establishes CSE and thriving as mediating mechanisms between RF and EI for the first time to offer new insights into theory and practice.
Determinants of on-demand ridesharing: the role of awareness of environmental consequences
Authors: Sajid Muhammed , Zakkariya K.A. , Peethambaran Meera , George Anoop
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The primary goal of this study is to determine the predictors of on-demand ridesharing intention in an emerging economy. For this purpose, the study uses the theoretical underpinnings of the theory of planned behavior (TPB).

Design/methodology/approach

The study surveyed 347 frequent users of ridesharing services using a set of pre-validated scales. The resulting data were analyzed using covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM).

Findings

The results of SEM analysis disclosed that the significant factors contributing to ridesharing intention are awareness of environmental consequences, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control and attitude (towards ridesharing).

Practical implications

This empirical research provides statistically robust insights for developing marketing strategies that attract more individuals toward ridesharing services.

Originality/value

This research has remarkable significance as it is one of the pioneering studies that critically examine the determinants of ridesharing intention from a South Asian emerging economy. Further, the extended TPB framework proposed in this study explains 71.4% variance in ridesharing intention, which is significantly higher than existing studies, with none of them explaining more than 70% variance.