bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Intravascular imaging assessment of pharmacotherapies targeting atherosclerosis: advantages and limitations in predicting their prognostic implications
Authors: Tufaro Vincenzo , Serruys Patrick Washington , Räber Lorenz , Bennett Martin Richard , Torii Ryo , Gu Sophie Zhaotao , Onuma Yoshinobu , Mathur Anthony , Baumbach Andreas , Bourantas Christos Vasileios 
Published: April 2022

AbstractIntravascular imaging has been often used over the recent years to examine the efficacy of emerging therapies targeting plaque evolution. Serial intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography, or near-infrared spectroscopy-intravascular ultrasound studies have allowed us to evaluate the effects of different therapies on plaque burden and morphology, providing unique mechanistic insights about the mode of action of these treatments. Plaque burden reduction, a decrease in necrotic core component or macrophage accumulation—which has been associated with inflammation—and an increase in fibrous cap thickness over fibroatheromas have been used as surrogate endpoints to assess the value of several drugs in inhibiting plaque evolution and improving clinical outcomes. However, some reports have demonstrated weak associations between the effects of novel treatments on coronary atheroma and composition and their prognostic implications. This review examines the value of invasive imaging in assessing pharmacotherapies targeting atherosclerosis. It summarizes the findings of serial intravascular imaging studies assessing the effects of different drugs on atheroma burden and morphology and compares them with the results of large-scale trials evaluating their impact on clinical outcome. Furthermore, it highlights the limited efficacy of established intravascular imaging surrogate endpoints in predicting the prognostic value of these pharmacotherapies and introduces alternative imaging endpoints based on multimodality/hybrid intravascular imaging that may enable more accurate assessment of the athero-protective and prognostic effects of emerging therapies.
Cardiac tamponade as the initial presentation of autoimmune polyglandular syndrome Type 2: a case report
Authors: Glick Laura R. , Hodson Daniel Z. , Sharma Shreyak , Savarimuthu Stella 
Published: April 2022

Abstract

Background
Cardiac tamponade is a rare but serious manifestation of autoimmune polyglandular syndrome Type 2 (APS 2). Patients often present with symptoms of thyroid dysfunction and adrenal insufficiency, but the insidious onset of the disease may lead to delayed diagnosis, which can progress rapidly to haemodynamic instability requiring urgent intervention.

Case summary
A 39-year-old previously healthy male was admitted with cardiac tamponade complicated by cardiac arrest requiring emergent pericardiocentesis. An extensive work up revealed primary adrenal insufficiency and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. His positive autoantibodies to thyroid peroxidase and 21-hydroxylase combined with rapid improvement with initiation of corticosteroids and levothyroxine confirmed a diagnosis of APS 2.

Discussion
Although this disease is often difficult to diagnose given its vague symptoms, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis for young patients presenting with pericardial effusion or cardiac tamponade of unknown origin. Early diagnosis and management are critical and often result in rapid improvement after appropriate treatment.
Takotsubo syndrome following radiofrequency ablation of atrial fibrillation in a patient with coronary artery anomaly: a case report
Authors: Liu Xiaoxia , Chen Xuan , Li Xu , Ma Changsheng 
Published: April 2022

Abstract

Background
Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is an acute heart failure syndrome usually induced by emotional or physical stress. The prevalence of TTS seems to be higher than previously anticipated. Radiofrequency catheter ablation could be a rare trigger of TTS. The pathophysiology is not fully understood. Sympathetic stimulation plays an important role on the development of TTS.

Case summary
A 62-year-old woman was referred for RFCA because of drug-refractory symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. No other chronic diseases were stated except for a hypertension history. Three hours after the AF ablation, the patient complained of chest pain. New electrocardiographic abnormalities were presented including progressive T-wave inversion and significant QT prolongation. Multimodality imaging, including echocardiography, coronary angiography, left ventriculography, and computed tomography was conducted in establishing the TTS diagnosis. The congenital coronary artery anomaly was confirmed at the same time. Both transthoracic echocardiography and left ventriculography showed typical TTS changes. Elevation of the brain natriuretic peptide and Troponin I was observed during the acute phase. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor and β-blocker were administrated during hospitalization and after discharge. Two weeks later, echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance revealed a total recovery of left ventricular function and apex kinesis.

Discussion
Sometimes, it is hard to distinguish TTS from acute coronary syndrome because of similar manifestations. Multimodality imaging is helpful to confirm the diagnosis. Radiofrequency catheter ablation could be a rare trigger of TTS, and its incidence may increase in patients with coronary artery anomaly. Coronary spasm and increased cardiac sympathetic activity induced by the ablation might be the mechanism involved.
Cardiac manifestations of IgG4-related disease: a case series
Authors: Ratwatte Seshika , Day Martin , Ridley Lloyd John , Fung Caroline , Naoum Christopher , Yiannikas John 
Published: April 2022

Abstract

Background
IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is an autoimmune condition affecting almost every organ system, with an early inflammatory phase and later fibrotic consequences. Vascular manifestations, particularly, large-vessel involvement in IgG4-RD, are well described. However, important IgG4-related effects on medium-sized arteries and the pericardium are less well recognized. These less frequently reported cardiovascular effects of IgG4-RD include coronary artery stenosis, pericardial disease, cardiac masses, and valvular heart disease.

Case summary
This case series focuses on three patients that demonstrate the cardiovascular effects of IgG4-RD and the pitfalls and importance of early diagnosis. Cases 1 and 2 presented with cardiac manifestations prior to more typical organ systems being affected which led to a delay in diagnosis. Case 1 presented with an acute myocardial infarction secondary to IgG4-RD of the coronary arteries and Case 2 presented with pericarditis which progressed to pericardial constriction due to IgG4-RD. Case 3 already had a diagnosis of IgG4-RD from a prior renal biopsy which raised the index of suspicion that his pericardial disease and thoracic mass were also related to IgG4-RD.

Discussion
Cardiac manifestations of IgG4-RD remain under-recognized and include coronary artery and pericardial disease. These manifestations often precede more typical manifestations in other organ systems. Recognizing cardiac manifestations of IgG4-RD on cardiac imaging can raise clinical suspicion and act as a catalyst to ascertain a confirmatory diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent potentially fatal outcomes and irreversible fibrosis.
Epicardial mesothelial cyst originating from the roof of the left atrium: a case report
Authors: Wang Anbiao , Zhang Yiwei , Zi Jie , Xu Lei 
Published: April 2022

Abstract

Background
Epicardial mesothelial cysts are cysts that are attached to the epicardium within the pericardial cavity. Reports on epicardial mesothelial cysts are rare, and limited studies have investigated their surgical management. Here, we report the rare case of an epicardial cyst originating from the roof of the left atrium.

Case summary
A 73-year-old man with dyspnoea on exertion and lower limb oedema was diagnosed with a giant cyst (diameter, 7 cm × 4.5 cm) in the pericardial cavity using computed tomography. Off-pump surgery was performed with successful resection of the cyst with a pedicle connected to the roof of the left atrium. Histological examination confirmed the mesothelial origin of the tumour cells.

Conclusion
Cysts rarely develop within the pericardial cavity, especially an epicardial cyst. The few studies exploring this disease have suggested that patients with this condition may be asymptomatic or have mild breathlessness or cardiac tamponade, which might be occasionally or incidentally diagnosed. Sufficient preoperative evaluation, particularly involving the coronary artery, is essential, and a rational way of surgery should be planned considering all factors.
Sick sinus syndrome concomitant with myopathy associated with anti-mitochondrial antibodies: a case report
Authors: Ishiguro Maya , Nagatomo Yuji , Inoue Kanki , Yoshikawa Tsutomu , Yoshizawa Saeko , Oya Yasushi , Nishino Ichizo , Isobe Mitsuaki 
Published: April 2022

Abstract

Background
Anti-mitochondrial antibody (AMA)-associated myopathy is known to be concomitant with primary biliary cirrhosis and to cause both skeletal muscle disorders and arrhythmias, myocardium disorders, and respiratory muscle disorders. We report a case of AMA-associated myopathy in which the bradycardia-related symptoms preceded the skeletal muscle symptoms.

Case summary
A 59-year-old woman visited the emergency room in our hospital following a syncopal event. The patient was bradycardiac (45 b.p.m.) with a junctional rhythm resulting from sick sinus syndrome (SSS) and was suffering from heart failure. Blood tests revealed elevated creatine kinase (CK) and hepatic enzymes. She underwent permanent pacemaker implantation. However, it proved difficult to detect the electrical potential in the right atrium. Although successful atrial pacing was achieved at the lower right atrial septum, the atrial threshold was markedly high and she depended on ventricular pacing. One year later, neurological examination and muscle biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of AMA-associated myopathy. Following this diagnosis, steroid pulse therapy was initiated. Steroid administration relieved her symptoms and lowered the CK levels but the atrial standstill persisted. The patient takes low-dose prednisolone and has had an uneventful course for 3 years.

Discussion
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of AMA-associated myopathy diagnosed by the first symptom related to bradycardia due to SSS. Patients with AMA-associated myopathy can experience a variety of cardiac symptoms, including arrhythmias, and initially complain of cardiac symptoms without symptoms of skeletal myopathy. This disease should be considered when diagnosing patients with arrhythmia and elevated CK.
A meta-regression analysis to evaluate the influence of branched-chain amino acids in lactation diets on sow and litter growth performance
Authors: Holen Julia P , Tokach Mike D , Woodworth Jason C , DeRouchey Joel M , Gebhardt Jordan T , Titgemeyer Evan C , Goodband Robert D 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
The branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) Ile, Leu, and Val are three dietary essential amino acids for lactating sows; however, effects of dietary BCAA on sow and litter growth performance in the literature are equivocal. Thus, a meta-regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the effects of BCAA and their interactions in lactating sow diets to predict litter growth performance, sow bodyweight change, and sow feed intake. Thirty-four publications that represented 43 trials from 1997 to 2020 were used to develop a database that contained 167 observations. Diets for each trial were reformulated using NRC. 2012. Nutrient requirements of swine. 11th ed. Washington, DC: National Academies Press nutrient loading values in an Excel-based spreadsheet. Amino acids were expressed on a standardized ileal digestible (SID) basis. Regression model equations were developed with the MIXED procedure of SAS (Version 9.4, SAS Institute, Cary, NC) and utilized the inverse of reported squared SEM with the WEIGHT statement to account for heterogeneous errors across studies. Predictor variables were assessed with a step-wise manual forward selection for model inclusion. Additionally, statistically significant (P &lt; 0.05) predictor variables were required to provide an improvement of at least 2 Bayesian information criterion units to be included in the final model. Significant predictor variables within three optimum equations developed for litter ADG included the count of weaned pigs per litter, NE, SID Lys, CP, sow ADFI, Val:Lys, Ile:Lys, and Leu:Val. For sow BW change, significant predictor variables within two developed models included litter size at 24 h, sow ADFI, Leu:Lys, and Ile + Val:Leu. The optimum equation for sow ADFI included Leu:Trp, SID Lys, NE, CP, and Leu:Lys as significant predictor variables. Overall, the prediction equations suggest that BCAA play an important role in litter growth, sow BW change, and feed intake during lactation; however, the influence of BCAA on these criteria is much smaller than that of other dietary components such as NE, SID Lys, sow ADFI, and CP.
Assembly of a Hybrid Formica aquilonia × F. polyctena Ant Genome From a Haploid Male
Authors: Nouhaud Pierre , Beresford Jack , Kulmuni Jonna 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Formica red wood ants are a keystone species of boreal forest ecosystems and an emerging model system in the study of speciation and hybridization. Here, we performed a standard DNA extraction from a single, field-collected Formica aquilonia × Formica polyctena haploid male and assembled its genome using ~60× of PacBio long reads. After polishing and contaminant removal, the final assembly was 272 Mb (4687 contigs, N50 = 1.16 Mb). Our reference genome contains 98.5% of the core Hymenopteran BUSCOs and was pseudo-scaffolded using the assembly of a related species, F. selysi (28 scaffolds, N50 = 8.49 Mb). Around one-third of the genome consists of repeats, and 17 426 gene models were annotated using both protein and RNAseq data (97.4% BUSCO completeness). This resource is of comparable quality to the few other single individual insect genomes assembled to date and paves the way to genomic studies of admixture in natural populations and comparative genomic approaches in Formica wood ants.
Institutionalizing the United States Forest Service’s Shared Stewardship Strategy in the Western United States
Authors: Kooistra Chad , Schultz Courtney , Abrams Jesse , Huber-Stearns Heidi 
Published: April 2022

AbstractThe USDA Forest Service’s (Forest Service) 2018 Shared Stewardship Strategy emphasizes partnerships with states, tribes, and other organizations or stakeholders to identify priority areas for forest management, coordinate across jurisdictions, and leverage capacities to expand forest restoration and wildfire mitigation. Through ninety-six interviews across nine western states with Forest Service and state agency staff and partners, we researched how the Shared Stewardship Strategy was being translated into practice. We found that, in most states, actors have relied on existing programs and partnerships to set the foundation for Shared Stewardship. Some states developed new positions or committees to support enhanced coordination, inclusive representation, and joint prioritization. Interviewees said that realizing shared accountability among partners and trying new approaches required training staff on existing mechanisms to work across jurisdictions and clear communication and support from leaders. Monitoring how efforts around the Shared Stewardship Strategy interact with other initiatives can inform future institutional changes to support multi-partner, landscape-level work.
Distant trans-Neptunian object candidates from NASA’s TESS mission scrutinized: fainter than predicted or false positives?
Authors: de la Fuente Marcos C , de la Fuente Marcos R , Vaduvescu O , Stănescu M 
Published: April 2022

ABSTRACT
NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) is performing a homogeneous survey of the sky from space in search of transiting exoplanets. The collected data are also being used for detecting passing Solar system objects, including 17 new outer Solar system body candidates located at geocentric distances in the range 80–200 au, that need follow-up observations with ground-based telescope resources for confirmation. Here, we present results of a proof-of-concept mini-survey aimed at recovering two of these candidates that was carried out with the 4.2-m William Herschel Telescope and a QHY600L CMOS camera mounted at its prime focus. For each candidate attempted, we surveyed a square of over 1○ × 1○ around its expected coordinates in Sloan r′. The same patch of sky was revisited in five consecutive or nearly consecutive nights, reaching S/N &gt; 4 at $r^{\prime }\, \lt $23 mag. We focused on the areas of sky around the circumpolar TESS candidates located at (07h:00m:15s, +86○:55′:19″), 202.8 au from Earth, and (06h:39m:47s, +83○:43′:54″) at 162.1 au, but we could not recover either of them at $r^{\prime }\, \le$23 mag. Based on the detailed analysis of the acquired images, we confirm that either both candidates are much fainter than predicted or that they are false positives.
Colorectal microbiota after removal of colorectal cancer
Authors: Cronin Peter , Murphy Clodagh L , Barrett Maurice , Ghosh Tarini Shankar , Pellanda Paola , O’Connor Eibhlis M , Zulquernain Syed Akbar , Kileen Shane , McCourt Morgan , Andrews Emmet , O’Riordain Micheal G , Shanahan Fergus , O’Toole Paul W 
Published: April 2022

AbstractThe colonic microbiome has been implicated in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC) and intestinal microbiome alterations are not confined to the tumour. Since data on whether the microbiome normalises or remains altered after resection of CRC are conflicting, we studied the colonic microbiota of patients after resection of CRC. We profiled the microbiota using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing in colonic biopsies from patients after resection of CRC (n = 63) in comparison with controls (n = 52), subjects with newly diagnosed CRC (n = 93) and polyps (i = 28). The colonic microbiota after surgical resection remained significantly different from that of controls in 65% of patients. Genus-level profiling and beta-diversity confirmed two distinct groups of patients after resection of CRC: one with an abnormal microbiota similar to that of patients with newly diagnosed CRC and another similar to non-CRC controls. Consumption levels of several dietary ingredients and cardiovascular drugs co-varied with differences in microbiota composition suggesting lifestyle factors may modulate differential microbiome trajectories after surgical resection. This study supports investigation of the colonic microbiota as a marker of risk for development of CRC.
Gardnerella vaginalis Bacteremia in Male Patients: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Akamine Christine M , Chou Andrew , Tavakoli-Tabasi Shahriar , Musher Daniel M 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Gardnerella vaginalis colonization and invasive disease of the genitourinary tract in women has been well described. In men, this organism uncommonly causes infection, and bacteremia is rare. We describe 2 cases of G vaginalis bacteremia in men and present a review of the literature.
Our 2 patients each had underlying comorbid conditions that predispose to serious bacterial infection. One presented with symptoms of urinary tract infection, the other presented with sepsis. Urine, cultured under usual aerobic conditions, was negative in both cases, but blood cultures after prolonged incubation yielded G vaginalis. Treatment with antibiotics was successful in both cases. Our review of the medical literature revealed 12 previously reported cases of G vaginalis bacteremia in men. Almost all infections in men have originated in the genitourinary tract. Three patients had no reported history of or evidence for disease of the urinary tract, one each with endocarditis, empyema, and odontogenic abscess.
Isolation and identification of G vaginalis is often delayed. Selection and duration of treatment have ranged widely in previously reported cases, likely due to the absence of reports on antibiotic susceptibility of G vaginalis and a lack of guidance regarding effective treatment.
Recovery after deficiency: systemic copper prioritization and partitioning in the leaves and stems of hybrid poplar
Authors: Hunter Cameron , Ware Maxwell A , Gleason Sean M , Pilon-Smits Elizabeth , Pilon Marinus 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Copper (Cu) is important for many aspects of plant function including photosynthesis. It has been suggested that photosynthesis, especially in young leaves, is prioritized for Cu delivery after deficiency in hybrid poplar. To determine relative Cu delivery prioritization, we enriched hydroponic plant growth media of Cu-deficient poplar with 98% 65Cu and tracked Cu delivery after deficiency to young leaves, mature leaves and stems. Young leaves acquired ~58% more 65Cu on Day 1 and ~65% more 65Cu by Day 3 compared with mature leaves. Additionally, stomatal conductance (gs) was measured on leaves for 6 weeks and during a 3-day 65Cu pulse resupply period. During deficiency, mature leaves maintained a higher gs than younger leaves but 3 days after Cu resupply the younger leaves that had recovered showed the highest gs. In conclusion, these results provide a quantitative understanding of how Cu is systemically transported and distributed to photosynthetic and stem tissues.
Identification of Early and Extra-Early Maturing Tropical Maize Inbred Lines with Multiple Disease Resistance for Enhanced Maize Production and Productivity in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Bankole Faith A. , Badu-Apraku Baffour , Salami Abiodun O. , Falade Titilayo D. O. , Bandyopadhyay Ranajit , Ortega-Beltran Alejandro 
Published: April 2022

Maize, a staple for millions across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), faces major biotic constraints affecting production and safety of the crop. These include northern corn leaf blight (NCLB), southern corn leaf blight (SCLB), Curvularia leaf spot (CLS), and aflatoxin contamination by Exserohilum turcicum, Bipolaris maydis, Curvularia lunata, and Aspergillus flavus, respectively. Farmers in SSA would benefit tremendously if high-yielding maize hybrids with multiple disease resistance (MDR) were developed and commercialized. In all, 49 early-maturing (EM; 90 to 95 days to physiological maturity) and 55 extra-early-maturing (EEM, 80 to 85 days to physiological maturity) inbred lines developed by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture were identified as resistant to NCLB in field evaluations in multiple agroecologies of Nigeria in 2017 and 2018. From each maturity group, the 30 most resistant inbreds were selected for evaluation for resistance to SCLB and CLS using a detached-leaf assay. Additionally, the inbreds were screened for resistance to kernel rot and aflatoxin contamination using a kernel screening assay. In all, 7 EM and 6 EEM maize inbreds were found to be highly resistant to the three foliar pathogens while 10 inbreds were resistant to the foliar pathogens and supported significantly less (P = 0.01) aflatoxin accumulation than other inbreds. Inbreds having MDR should be tested extensively in hybrid combinations and commercialized. Large-scale use of maize hybrids with MDR would (i) increase maize production and productivity and (ii) reduce losses caused by aflatoxin contamination. Overall, planting of EM and EEM maize hybrids with MDR would contribute to food security, reduced aflatoxin exposure, and increased incomes of maize farmers in SSA. [Formula: see text] Copyright © 2022 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY 4.0 International license .