bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
SR-Mitochondria Crosstalk Shapes Ca Signalling to Impact Pathophenotype in Disease Models Marked by Dysregulated Intracellular Ca Release
Authors: Tow Brian D , Deb Arpita , Neupane Shraddha , Patel Shuchi M , Reed Meagan , Loper Anna-Beth , Eliseev Roman A , Knollmann Björn C , Györke Sándor , Liu Bin 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Aims
Diastolic Ca release (DCR) from sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca release channel ryanodine receptor (RyR2) has been linked to multiple cardiac pathologies, but its exact role in shaping divergent cardiac pathologies remains unclear. We hypothesize that the SR-mitochondria interplay contributes to disease phenotypes by shaping Ca signalling.

Methods and results
A genetic model of catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT2 model of CASQ2 knockout) and a pre-diabetic cardiomyopathy model of fructose-fed mice (FFD), both marked by DCR, are employed in this study. Mitochondria Ca (mCa) is modulated by pharmacologically targeting mitochondria Ca uniporter (MCU) or permeability transition pore (mPTP), mCa uptake, and extrusion mechanisms, respectively. An MCU activator abolished Ca waves in CPVT2 but exacerbated waves in FFD cells. Mechanistically this is ascribed to mitochondria’s function as a Ca buffer or source of reactive oxygen species (mtROS) to exacerbate RyR2 functionality, respectively. Enhancing mCa uptake reduced and elevated mtROS production in CPVT2 and FFD, respectively. In CPVT2, mitochondria took up more Ca in permeabilized cells, and had higher level of mCa content in intact cells vs. FFD. Conditional ablation of MCU in the CPVT2 model caused lethality and cardiac remodelling, but reduced arrhythmias in the FFD model. In parallel, CPVT2 mitochondria also employ up-regulated mPTP-mediated Ca efflux to avoid mCa overload, as seen by elevated incidence of MitoWinks (an indicator of mPTP-mediated Ca efflux) vs. FFD. Both pharmacological and genetic inhibition of mPTP promoted mtROS production and exacerbation of myocyte Ca handling in CPVT2. Further, genetic inhibition of mPTP exacerbated arrhythmias in CPVT2.

Conclusion
In contrast to FFD, which is more susceptible to mtROS-dependent RyR2 leak, in CPVT2 mitochondria buffer SR-derived DCR to mitigate Ca-dependent pathological remodelling and rely on mPTP-mediated Ca efflux to avoid mCa overload. SR-mitochondria interplay contributes to the divergent pathologies by disparately shaping intracellular Ca signalling.
Genetic inhibition of nuclear factor of activated T-cell c2 prevents atrial fibrillation in CREM transgenic mice
Authors: Ni Li , Lahiri Satadru K , Nie Jiali , Pan Xiaolu , Abu-Taha Issam , Reynolds Julia O , Campbell Hannah M , Wang Haihao , Kamler Markus , Schmitz Wilhelm , Müller Frank Ulrich , Li Na , Wei Xiang , Wang Dao Wen , Dobrev Dobromir , Wehrens Xander H T 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Aims
Abnormal intracellular calcium (Ca2+) handling contributes to the progressive nature of atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia. Evidence in mouse models suggests that activation of the nuclear factor of activated T-cell (NFAT) signalling pathway contributes to atrial remodelling. Our aim was to determine the role of NFATc2 in AF in humans and mouse models.

Methods and results
Expression levels of NFATc1–c4 isoforms were assessed by quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction in right atrial appendages from patients with chronic AF (cAF). NFATc1 and NFATc2 mRNA levels were elevated in cAF patients compared with those in normal sinus rhythm (NSR). Western blotting revealed increased cytosolic and nuclear levels of NFATc2 in AF patients. Similar findings were obtained in CREM-IbΔC-X transgenic (CREM) mice, a model of progressive AF. Telemetry ECG recordings revealed age-dependent spontaneous AF in CREM mice, which was prevented by NFATc2 knockout in CREM:NFATc2–/– mice. Programmed electrical stimulation revealed that CREM:NFATc2–/– mice lacked an AF substrate. Morphometric analysis and histology revealed increased atrial weight and atrial fibrosis in CREM mice compared with wild-type controls, which was reversed in CREM:NFATc2–/– mice. Confocal microscopy showed an increased Ca2+ spark frequency despite a reduced sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ load in CREM mice compared with controls, whereas these abnormalities were normalized in CREM:NFATc2–/– mice. Western blotting revealed that genetic inhibition of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II-mediated phosphorylation of S2814 on ryanodine receptor type 2 (RyR2) in CREM:RyR2-S2814A mice suppressed NFATc2 activation observed in CREM mice, suggesting that NFATc2 is activated by excessive SR Ca2+ leak via RyR2. Finally, chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing from AF patients identified Ras and EF-hand domain-containing protein (Rasef) as a direct target of NFATc2-mediated transcription.

Conclusion
Our findings reveal activation of the NFAT signalling pathway in patients of Chinese and European descent. NFATc2 knockout prevents the progression of AF in the CREM mouse model.
Left atrial evaluation by cardiovascular magnetic resonance: sensitive and unique biomarkers
Authors: Peters Dana C , Lamy Jérôme , Sinusas Albert J , Baldassarre Lauren A 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Left atrial (LA) imaging is still not routinely used for diagnosis and risk stratification, although recent studies have emphasized its importance as an imaging biomarker. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance is able to evaluate LA structure and function, metrics that serve as early indicators of disease, and provide prognostic information, e.g. regarding diastolic dysfunction, and atrial fibrillation (AF). MR angiography defines atrial anatomy, useful for planning ablation procedures, and also for characterizing atrial shapes and sizes that might predict cardiovascular events, e.g. stroke. Long-axis cine images can be evaluated to define minimum, maximum, and pre-atrial contraction LA volumes, and ejection fractions (EFs). More modern feature tracking of these cine images provides longitudinal LA strain through the cardiac cycle, and strain rates. Strain may be a more sensitive marker than EF and can predict post-operative AF, AF recurrence after ablation, outcomes in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, stratification of diastolic dysfunction, and strain correlates with atrial fibrosis. Using high-resolution late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), the extent of fibrosis in the LA can be estimated and post-ablation scar can be evaluated. The LA LGE method is widely available, its reproducibility is good, and validations with voltage-mapping exist, although further scan–rescan studies are needed, and consensus regarding atrial segmentation is lacking. Using LGE, scar patterns after ablation in AF subjects can be reproducibly defined. Evaluation of ‘pre-existent’ atrial fibrosis may have roles in predicting AF recurrence after ablation, predicting new-onset AF and diastolic dysfunction in patients without AF. LA imaging biomarkers are ready to enter into diagnostic clinical practice.
Environmental identity economics: an application to farmers’ pro-environmental investment behaviour
Authors: Zemo Kahsay Haile , Termansen Mette 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
This study proposes an environmental identity economics theory that can improve our understanding of pro-environmental behaviour. We test the potential of the theory by analysing farmers’ decisions to invest in renewable energy production using a hybrid choice model. Our findings illustrate that farmers with a strong environmental identity require less financial incentive to invest. Furthermore, lower compensation is found to be sufficient to induce farmers with a strong environmental identity to commit to more binding investment contracts. Our findings stress the need for differentiated designs of agri-environmental programmes and mechanisms that enhance farmers’ environmental identity.
Undocumented Older Latino Immigrants in the United States: Population Projections and Share of Older Undocumented Latinos by Health Insurance Coverage and Chronic Health Conditions, 2018–2038
Authors: Ro Annie , Van Hook Jennifer , Walsemann Katrina M 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Objectives
This article focuses on the older Latino undocumented population and anticipates how their current demographic characteristics and health insurance coverage might affect future population size and health insurance trends.

Methods
We use the 2013–2018 American Community Survey as a baseline to project growth in the Latino 55 and older undocumented population over the next 20 years. We use the cohort component method to estimate population size across different migration scenarios and distinguish between aging in place and new immigration. We also examine contemporary health insurance coverage and chronic health conditions among 55 and older undocumented Latinos from the 2003–2014 California Health Interview Survey. We then project health insurance rates in 2038 among Latino immigrants under different migration and policy scenarios.

Results
If current mortality, migration, and policy trends continue, projections estimate that 40% of undocumented Latino immigrants will be 55 years or older by 2038—nearly all of whom will have aged in place. Currently, 40% of older Latino undocumented immigrants do not have insurance. Without policies that increase access to insurance, projections estimate that the share who are uninsured among all older Latinos immigrants will rise from 15% to 21%, and the share who is both uninsured and living with a chronic health condition will rise from 5% to 9%.

Discussion
Without access to health care, older undocumented immigrants may experience delayed care and more severe morbidity. Our projections highlight the need to develop and enact policies that can address impending health access concerns for an increasingly older undocumented Latino population.
Management of spontaneous pneumothorax in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Ulutas Hakki , Celik Muhammet Reha , Gulcek Ilham , Kalkan Muhammed , Agar Mehmet , Kilic Talat , Gulcek Emine 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia may cause cystic features of lung parenchyma which can resolve or progress to larger blebs. Pneumothorax was more likely in patients with neutrophilia, severe lung injury and a prolonged clinical course. The timely diagnosis and management will reduce COVID-19-associated morbidity and mortality.

METHODS
We present 11 cases of spontaneous pneumothorax managed with chest tube thoracostomy or high-dose oxygen therapy. Isolated spontaneous pneumothorax was detected in all cases.

RESULTS
Eight cases were male and 3 cases were female. There were bilateral ground-glass opacities or pulmonary infiltrates in the parenchyma of the 10 cases. We detected neutrophilia, lymphopaenia and increased C-reactive protein, Ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase, D-Dimer, interleukin-6 levels in almost all cases. Chest tube thoracostomy was sufficient to treat pneumothorax in our 9 of case. In 2 cases, pneumothorax healed with high-dose oxygen therapy. Favipiravir and antibiotic treatment were given to different 10 patients. In our institution, all patients with COVID-19 infection were placed on prophylactic or therapeutic anticoagulation, unless contraindicated. The treatments of patients diagnosed with secondary spontaneous pneumothorax during the pandemic period and those diagnosed with secondary spontaneous pneumothorax in the previous 3 years were compared with the durations of tube thoracostomy performed in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS
The increased number of cases of pneumothorax suggests that pneumothorax may be a complication of COVID-19 infection. During medical treatment of COVID-19, pneumothorax may be the only reason for hospitalization. Although tube thoracostomy is a sufficient treatment option in most cases, clinicians should be aware of the difficulties that may arise in diagnosis and treatment.
Midterm survival of imaging-assisted robotic lung segmentectomy for non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Chaari Zied , Montagne François , Sarsam Matthieu , Bottet Benjamin , Rinieri Philippe , Gillibert Andre , Baste Jean Marc 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Our goal was to report our midterm results using imaging-assisted modalities with robotic segmentectomies for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS
This was a retrospective study of all robotic segmentectomies, with confirmed NSCLC, performed at our general and thoracic surgery unit in the Rouen University Hospital (France), from January 2012 through December 2019. Benign and metastatic lesions were excluded. Data were extracted from the EPITHOR French nationwide database.

RESULTS
A total of 121 robotic segmentectomies were performed for 118 patients with a median age of 65 (interquartile range: 60, 69) years. The majority had clinical stage T1aN0M0 (71.9%) or T1bN0M0 (13.2%). The mean (standard deviation) number of resected segments was 1.93 (1.09) with 80.2% imaging-assisted segmentectomies. Oriented (according to tumour location) or systematic lymphadenectomy or sampling was performed for 72.7%, 23.1% and 4.1% of patients. The postoperative course was uneventful for 94 patients (77.7%), whereas 34 complications occurred for 27 patients (22.3%), including 2 patients (1.7%) with Clavien-Dindo ≥III complications. The mean thoracic drainage duration was 4.12 days, and the median hospital stay was 4 days (interquartile range: 3, 5) after the operation. The 2-year survival rate was 93.9% (95% confidence interval: 86.4–97.8%). Excluding stage IV (n = 3) and stage 0 tumours (n = 6), the 2-year survival rate was 95.7% (95% confidence interval: 88.4–98.8%) compared to an expected survival rate of 94.0% according to stage-specific survival rates found in a large external reference cohort.

CONCLUSIONS
Imaging-guided robotic-assisted thoracic surgery segmentectomy seems to be useful and oncological with good midterm results, especially for patients with early-stage NSCLC.
Varentropy of inactivity time of a random variable and its related applications
Authors: Raqab Mohammad Z , Bayoud Husam A , Qiu Guoxin 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
The information content of a random variable is of importance in the field of information theory. The mean and the variance of the information content of a random variable are called entropy and varentropy of this random variable, respectively. The varentropy of the inactivity time of a random variable is studied and termed by past varentropy in this paper. Reliability properties associated with the past varentropy and the reversed hazard rate function are discussed. Lower and upper bounds for the past varentropy are provided. The varentropy is applied for the proportional reversed hazard rate model. Also, asymptotic distribution for the information content of the inactivity time of a random variable is provided based on past entropy and varentropy.
Autoantibodies in Common Connective Tissue Diseases: A Primer for Laboratory Professionals
Authors: Martin Janet , Petryayeva Eleonora , Khan Waliul I 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBackgroundAutoimmune connective tissue disorders are a significant health concern throughout the world with an estimated prevalence of 3% to 5%. They are associated with a variety of autoantibodies that play roles in their diagnosis, risk stratification, prognostication, and/or management. While some autoantibodies have been well-characterized for use in clinical laboratories, many more are in the research stage. Rapid transition from research to clinical practice, lack of clinical guidelines, and harmonization across a rapidly growing number of commercially available tests create numerous challenges to clinicians and laboratories.ContentThis article briefly discusses common connective tissue disorders and their association with well-known autoantibodies, describes current methods used in clinical laboratories, and outlines their advantages and limitations in the context of these diseases.SummaryUnderstanding the role of specific autoantibodies and various methodologies for autoantibody testing are important for laboratory professionals who may be introducing/repatriating new tests, updating existing tests, or advising clinicians/patients about testing options/results. Collaboration between laboratory professional staff and clinicians, around the advantages and limitations of each methodology, is also important in their appropriate clinical utilization.
Emergency Response Validation of the Soleris® Direct Yeast and Mold Method for Detection of Yeast and Mold in Dried Cannabis Flower: AOAC Performance Tested MethodSM 051301
Authors: Le Quynh-Nhi , Montei Carolyn , Mozola Mark , Roman Brooke , Biswas Preetha , Donofrio Robert 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Soleris® Direct Yeast and Mold (DYM) is a growth-based, automated method for detection of yeast and mold in select foods and other sample types including nutraceuticals and cosmetics. The Soleris method is used in a “dilute-to-specification” or threshold manner in which a result is scored as positive or negative around a predetermined cutoff (in CFU/g) established by the dilution and volume of sample homogenate tested.

Objective
The objective of this study was to validate the method for testing of dried cannabis flower. The validation was conducted under the Emergency Response Validation program of the AOAC Research Institute.

Method
The study included inclusivity and exclusivity testing, in particular testing of yeast and mold species associated with cannabis, and a matrix study in which Soleris method presumptive results were compared with Soleris confirmed results using Dichloran Rose-Bengal Chloramphenicol (DRBC) agar for confirmation. Samples at four different levels of natural yeast and mold contamination were tested at two test thresholds.

Results
In inclusivity testing, all 63 yeast and mold strains tested produced positive results within the specified test duration of 72 h. In exclusivity testing, 36 of 37 strains tested produced no detection within 72 h. In matrix testing, there were no significant differences between Soleris presumptive and confirmed results for any contamination level or test threshold as determined by probability of detection analysis.

Conclusions
Results indicate that the Soleris method is an effective procedure for detection of yeast and mold in dried cannabis flower.

Highlights
With the Soleris method, results are available within 72 h compared with the 5–7 days required for microbiological culture methods.
Behavioral Effects and Retention of Protein Immunomarkers on Plum Curculio Conotrachelus nenuphar (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Lampasona Timothy , Acebes-Doria Angelita , Leskey Tracy C , Nielsen Anne L 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Protein immunomarking can be used to track the dispersal of insects in the field or identify plant–insect interactions. By marking insects with known proteins and recapturing them, their movement or host use can be quantified with Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Before using this technique, retention and behavioral effects of these markers should be evaluated to ensure that the insect’s natural behaviors are conserved. Here, we tested the effects of protein markers on the plum curculio, Conotrachelus nenuphar (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) using two different application methods. This weevil is native to North American and a pest of tree fruit and blueberry in the United States and causes damage resulting in near complete crop loss if left untreated. We tested the effects of marking adult C. nenuphar with two inexpensive food-based immunoprotein markers, bovine casein (cow’s milk) and chicken albumin (egg whites) on climbing distance (total cm), lateral movement (total cm), and lateral movement speed (cm/s), as well as retention time of protein immunomarkers. Neither protein immunomarker affected C. nenuphar movement or climbing, although females climbed significantly greater distances than males. ELISA assays detected 37.5–56.2% of milk protein and 56.2–59.3% of egg on the insect 7 d after application depending on application method. Our findings indicate that food-based protein immunomarkers can be used in future studies to test C. nenuphar movement within host plants without impacting behavior. The use of protein immunomarking will allow studies that will lead to behaviorally based management tactics.
Subacute fat embolism syndrome in a young female trauma patient during COVID-19
Authors: Nixon Mickaela J , Grant Thomas 
Published: October 2021

AbstractWe report the symptom evolution of a young female trauma patient leading to a diagnosis of fat embolism syndrome (FES). Twenty-four hours post-trauma she developed respiratory distress, followed by transient neurological compromise and later petechia. The subtle and fluctuating nature of her presentation made the diagnosis via existing clinical criteria challenging, as did the lack of specificity of thoracic computerized tomography due to the concurrent coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Making the diagnosis was important as it changed the patient’s management, likely preventing a diagnosis in extremis. This case emphasizes the importance of maintaining a high clinical suspicion of FES in any (poly)trauma patient. This is especially true during COVID-19, as correctly identifying non-COVID-19 causes of respiratory failure will prevent additional pandemic victims. In addition, this case supports the need for a diagnostic approach that balances clinical, biochemical and imaging features and takes a cumulative approach in order to identify subacute FES.
How can we manage Bezold abscess emergency in COVID-19 pandemic? Blind ceftriaxone and metronidazole treatment to avoid infection spread†
Authors: Scarpa Alfonso , Di Stadio Arianna , De Luca Pietro , Calvanese Matteo , Viola Pasquale , Tassone Domenico , de Campora Luca , Simone Matteo , Ricci Giampietro , Messineo Daniela , Ralli Massimo , Cassandro Claudia 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Bezold abscess (BA) can be a rare complication of different forms of otitis media. We describe a rare case of BA determined by Escherichia Coli. Because of COVID-19 restriction, the surgery had to be delayed up to the swab results. To avoid infection spread, the patient was treated by blind antibiotic treatment until the surgical drainage of mastoid and neck. Thanks to the treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics, the progression and the spread of the infection during COVID-19 investigation was avoided. Delayed surgery could expose the patient to the risk of severe brain infection caused by the E. Coli.