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Rivera CF, Farra YM, Silvestro M, Medvedovsky S, Matz J, Pratama MY, Vlahos J, Ramkhelawon B, Bellini C. Mapping the unicellular transcriptome of the ascending thoracic aorta to changes in mechanosensing and mechanoadaptation during aging. Aging Cell 2024; 23:e14197. [PMID: 38825882 PMCID: PMC11320362 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Aortic stiffening is an inevitable manifestation of chronological aging, yet the mechano-molecular programs that orchestrate region- and layer-specific adaptations along the length and through the wall of the aorta are incompletely defined. Here, we show that the decline in passive cyclic distensibility is more pronounced in the ascending thoracic aorta (ATA) compared to distal segments of the aorta and that collagen content increases in both the medial and adventitial compartments of the ATA during aging. The single-cell RNA sequencing of aged ATA tissues reveals altered cellular senescence, remodeling, and inflammatory responses accompanied by enrichment of T-lymphocytes and rarefaction of vascular smooth muscle cells, compared to young samples. T lymphocyte clusters accumulate in the adventitia, while the activation of mechanosensitive Piezo-1 enhances vasoconstriction and contributes to the overall functional decline of ATA tissues. These results portray the immuno-mechanical aging of the ATA as a process that culminates in a stiffer conduit permissive to the accrual of multi-gerogenic signals priming to disease development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristobal F. Rivera
- Department of Surgery, Division of Vascular and Endovascular SurgeryNew York University Langone Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Department of Cell BiologyNew York University Langone Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Yasmeen M. Farra
- Department of BioengineeringNortheastern UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Michele Silvestro
- Department of Surgery, Division of Vascular and Endovascular SurgeryNew York University Langone Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Department of Cell BiologyNew York University Langone Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Steven Medvedovsky
- Department of Surgery, Division of Vascular and Endovascular SurgeryNew York University Langone Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Department of Cell BiologyNew York University Langone Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Jacqueline Matz
- Department of BioengineeringNortheastern UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Muhammad Yogi Pratama
- Department of Surgery, Division of Vascular and Endovascular SurgeryNew York University Langone Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Department of Cell BiologyNew York University Langone Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - John Vlahos
- Department of Surgery, Division of Vascular and Endovascular SurgeryNew York University Langone Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Department of Cell BiologyNew York University Langone Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Bhama Ramkhelawon
- Department of Surgery, Division of Vascular and Endovascular SurgeryNew York University Langone Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Department of Cell BiologyNew York University Langone Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Chiara Bellini
- Department of BioengineeringNortheastern UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA
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Mandino F, Vujic S, Grandjean J, Lake EMR. Where do we stand on fMRI in awake mice? Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhad478. [PMID: 38100331 PMCID: PMC10793583 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhad478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Imaging awake animals is quickly gaining traction in neuroscience as it offers a means to eliminate the confounding effects of anesthesia, difficulties of inter-species translation (when humans are typically imaged while awake), and the inability to investigate the full range of brain and behavioral states in unconscious animals. In this systematic review, we focus on the development of awake mouse blood oxygen level dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Mice are widely used in research due to their fast-breeding cycle, genetic malleability, and low cost. Functional MRI yields whole-brain coverage and can be performed on both humans and animal models making it an ideal modality for comparing study findings across species. We provide an analysis of 30 articles (years 2011-2022) identified through a systematic literature search. Our conclusions include that head-posts are favorable, acclimation training for 10-14 d is likely ample under certain conditions, stress has been poorly characterized, and more standardization is needed to accelerate progress. For context, an overview of awake rat fMRI studies is also included. We make recommendations that will benefit a wide range of neuroscience applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Mandino
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, United States
| | - Stella Vujic
- Department of Computer Science, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, United States
| | - Joanes Grandjean
- Donders Institute for Brain, Behaviour, and Cognition, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department for Medical Imaging, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Evelyn M R Lake
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, United States
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3
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Liu J, Nabavizadeh P, Rao P, Derakhshandeh R, Han DD, Guo R, Murphy MB, Cheng J, Schick SF, Springer ML. Impairment of Endothelial Function by Aerosol From Marijuana Leaf Vaporizers. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e032969. [PMID: 38014661 PMCID: PMC10727338 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.032969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Marijuana leaf vaporizers, which heat plant material and sublimate Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol without combustion, are popular alternatives to smoking cannabis that are generally perceived to be less harmful. We have shown that smoke from tobacco and marijuana, as well as aerosol from e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, impair vascular endothelial function in rats measured as arterial flow-mediated dilation (FMD). METHODS AND RESULTS We exposed 8 rats per group to aerosol generated by 2 vaporizer systems (Volcano and handheld Yocan) using marijuana with varying Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol levels, in a single pulsatile exposure session of 2 s/min over 5 minutes, and measured changes in FMD. To model secondhand exposure, we exposed rats for 1 minute to diluted aerosol approximating release of uninhaled Volcano aerosol into typical residential rooms. Exposure to aerosol from marijuana with and without cannabinoids impaired FMD by ≈50%. FMD was similarly impaired by aerosols from Yocan (237 °C), and from Volcano at both its standard temperature (185 °C) and the minimum sublimation temperature of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (157 °C), although the low-temperature aerosol condition did not effectively deliver Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol to the circulation. Modeled secondhand exposure based on diluted Volcano aerosol also impaired FMD. FMD was not affected in rats exposed to clean air or water vapor passed through the Volcano system. CONCLUSIONS Acute direct exposure and modeled secondhand exposure to marijuana leaf vaporizer aerosol, regardless of cannabinoid concentration or aerosol generation temperature, impair endothelial function in rats comparably to marijuana smoke. Our findings indicate that use of leaf vaporizers is unlikely to reduce the vascular risk burden of smoking marijuana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangtao Liu
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Pooneh Nabavizadeh
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
- Present address:
Division of CardiologyUniversity of CincinnatiCincinnatiOHUSA
| | - Poonam Rao
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
- Center for Tobacco Control Research and EducationUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
- Present address:
Christus Good Shepherd/Texas A&M University Internal Medicine Residency ProgramLongviewTXUSA
| | - Ronak Derakhshandeh
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Daniel D. Han
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
- Present address:
School of Medicine and DentistryUniversity of RochesterRochesterNYUSA
| | - Raymond Guo
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
- Present address:
Stanford UniversityStanfordCAUSA
| | - Morgan B. Murphy
- Division of Occupational and Environmental MedicineUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
- Present address:
Sutter Health California Pacific Medical CenterStanfordCAUSA
| | - Jing Cheng
- Division of Oral Epidemiology and Dental Public HealthUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Suzaynn F. Schick
- Center for Tobacco Control Research and EducationUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
- Division of Occupational and Environmental MedicineUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
| | - Matthew L. Springer
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
- Division of CardiologyUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
- Center for Tobacco Control Research and EducationUniversity of California, San FranciscoSan FranciscoCAUSA
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4
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Laudermilk LT, Marusich JA, Wiley JL. Δ 9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Effects on Respiration and Heart Rate Across Route of Administration in Female and Male Mice. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2023; 23:349-363. [PMID: 37728714 PMCID: PMC10683859 DOI: 10.1007/s12012-023-09810-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
The physiological impact of cannabinoid receptor agonists is of great public health interest due to their increased use in recreational and therapeutic contexts. However, the body of literature on cannabinoid receptor agonists includes multiple confounding variables that complicate comparisons across studies, including route of administration, timeline across which phenotypes are observed, agonist dose, and sex of the study cohort. In this study, we characterized the impact of sex and route of administration on Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)-induced changes in cardiopulmonary phenotypes in mice. Using noninvasive plethysmography and telemetry, we monitored heart rate and respiration in the same cohort of animals across aerosol, oral gavage, subcutaneous, and intraperitoneal administrations of THC (0-30 mg/kg THC for oral gavage, subcutaneous, and intraperitoneal, and 0-300 mg/ml THC for aerosol). All routes of THC administration altered respiratory minute volume and heart rate, with the direction of effects typically being consistent across dependent measures. THC primarily decreased respiration and heart rate, but females given oral gavage THC showed increased heart rate. Intraperitoneal and subcutaneous THC produced the longest-lasting effects, including THC-induced alterations in physiological parameters for up to 10 h, whereas effects of aerosolized THC were short lived. The fastest onset of effects of THC occurred for aerosolized and intraperitoneal THC. Altogether, the work herein establishes the impact of dosing route on THC-induced heart rate and respiratory alteration in male and female mice. This study highlights important differences in the timeline of cardiopulmonary response to THC following the most common preclinical routes of administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas T Laudermilk
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road Research Triangle Park, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Julie A Marusich
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road Research Triangle Park, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA.
| | - Jenny L Wiley
- RTI International, 3040 Cornwallis Road Research Triangle Park, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, USA
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5
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Eden MJ, Matz J, Garg P, Gonzalez MP, McElderry K, Wang S, Gollner MJ, Oakes JM, Bellini C. Prolonged smoldering Douglas fir smoke inhalation augments respiratory resistances, stiffens the aorta, and curbs ejection fraction in hypercholesterolemic mice. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 861:160609. [PMID: 36470384 PMCID: PMC10699119 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
While mounting evidence suggests that wildland fire smoke (WFS) inhalation may increase the burden of cardiopulmonary disease, the occupational risk of repeated exposure during wildland firefighting remains unknown. To address this concern, we evaluated the cardiopulmonary function in mice following a cumulative exposure to lab-scale WFS equivalent to a mid-length wildland firefighter (WLFF) career. Dosimetry analysis indicated that 80 exposure hours at a particulate concentration of 22 mg/m3 yield in mice the same cumulative deposited mass per unit of lung surface area as 3600 h of wildland firefighting. To satisfy this condition, male Apoe-/- mice were whole-body exposed to either air or smoldering Douglas fir smoke (DFS) for 2 h/day, 5 days/week, over 8 consecutive weeks. Particulate size in DFS fell within the respirable range for both mice and humans, with a count median diameter of 110 ± 20 nm. Expiratory breath hold in mice exposed to DFS significantly reduced their minute volume (DFS: 27 ± 4; Air: 122 ± 8 mL/min). By the end of the exposure time frame, mice in the DFS group exhibited a thicker (DFS: 109 ± 3; Air: 98 ± 3 μm) and less distensible (DFS: 23 ± 1; Air: 28 ± 1 MPa-1) aorta with reduced diastolic blood augmentation capacity (DFS: 53 ± 2; Air: 63 ± 2 kPa). Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging further revealed larger end-systolic volume (DFS: 14.6 ± 1.1; Air: 9.9 ± 0.9 μL) and reduced ejection-fraction (DFS: 64.7 ± 1.0; Air: 75.3 ± 0.9 %) in mice exposed to DFS. Consistent with increased airway epithelium thickness (DFS: 10.4 ± 0.8; Air: 7.6 ± 0.3 μm), airway Newtonian resistance was larger following DFS exposure (DFS: 0.23 ± 0.03; Air: 0.20 ± 0.03 cmH2O-s/mL). Furthermore, parenchyma mean linear intercept (DFS: 36.3 ± 0.8; Air: 33.3 ± 0.8 μm) and tissue thickness (DFS: 10.1 ± 0.5; Air: 7.4 ± 0.7 μm) were larger in DFS mice. Collectively, mice exposed to DFS manifested early signs of cardiopulmonary dysfunction aligned with self-reported events in mid-career WLFFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Eden
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, MA, USA
| | - Jacqueline Matz
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, MA, USA
| | - Priya Garg
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Siyan Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Michael J Gollner
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jessica M Oakes
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, MA, USA
| | - Chiara Bellini
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, MA, USA.
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Sadaka AH, Canuel J, Febo M, Johnson CT, Bradshaw HB, Ortiz R, Ciumo F, Kulkarni P, Gitcho MA, Ferris CF. Effects of inhaled cannabis high in Δ9-THC or CBD on the aging brain: A translational MRI and behavioral study. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1055433. [PMID: 36819730 PMCID: PMC9930474 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1055433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
With the recent legalization of inhaled cannabis for medicinal and recreational use, the elderly represents one of the newest, rapidly growing cohorts of cannabis users. To understand the neurobiological effects of cannabis on the aging brain, 19-20 months old mice were divided into three groups exposed to vaporized cannabis containing ~10% Δ9-THC, ~10% CBD, or placebo for 30 min each day. Voxel based morphometry, diffusion weighted imaging, and resting state functional connectivity data were gathered after 28 days of exposure and following a two-week washout period. Tail-flick, open field, and novel object preference tests were conducted to explore analgesic, anxiolytic, and cognitive effects of cannabis, respectively. Vaporized cannabis high in Δ9-THC and CBD achieved blood levels reported in human users. Mice showed antinociceptive effects to chronic Δ9-THC without tolerance while the anxiolytic and cognitive effects of Δ9-THC waned with treatment. CBD had no effect on any of the behavioral measures. Voxel based morphometry showed a decrease in midbrain dopaminergic volume to chronic Δ9-THC followed but an increase after a two-week washout. Fractional anisotropy values were reduced in the same area by chronic Δ9-THC, suggesting a reduction in gray matter volume. Cannabis high in CBD but not THC increased network strength and efficiency, an effect that persisted after washout. These data would indicate chronic use of inhaled cannabis high in Δ9-THC can be an effective analgesic but not for treatment of anxiety or cognitive decline. The dopaminergic midbrain system was sensitive to chronic Δ9-THC but not CBD showing robust plasticity in volume and water diffusivity prior to and following drug cessation an effect possibly related to the abuse liability of Δ9-THC. Chronic inhaled CBD resulted in enhanced global network connectivity that persisted after drug cessation. The behavioral consequences of this sustained change in brain connectivity remain to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aymen H. Sadaka
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Justin Canuel
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Marcelo Febo
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Clare T. Johnson
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Heather B. Bradshaw
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Richard Ortiz
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | - Federica Ciumo
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Praveen Kulkarni
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Michael A. Gitcho
- Department of Biological Sciences, Delaware Center for Neuroscience Research, Delaware State University, Dover, DE, United States
| | - Craig F. Ferris
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
- Departments of Psychology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
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7
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Taylor A, Nweke A, Vincent V, Oke M, Kulkarni P, Ferris CF. Chronic exposure to inhaled vaporized cannabis high in Δ9-THC alters brain structure in adult female mice. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1139309. [PMID: 36950131 PMCID: PMC10025305 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1139309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The medical and recreational use of cannabis has increased in the United States. Its chronic use can have detrimental effects on the neurobiology of the brain-effects that are age-dependent. This was an exploratory study looking at the effects of chronically inhaled vaporized cannabis on brain structure in adult female mice. Methods Adult mice were exposed daily to vaporized cannabis (10.3% THC and 0.05% CBD) or placebo for 21 days. Following cessation of treatment mice were examined for changes in brain structure using voxel-based morphometry and diffusion weighted imaging MRI. Data from each imaging modality were registered to a 3D mouse MRI atlas with 139 brain areas. Results Mice showed volumetric changes in the forebrain particularly the prefrontal cortex, accumbens, ventral pallidum, and limbic cortex. Many of these same brain areas showed changes in water diffusivity suggesting alterations in gray matter microarchitecture. Discussion These data are consistent with much of the clinical findings on cannabis use disorder. The sensitivity of the dopaminergic system to the daily exposure of vaporized cannabis raises concerns for abuse liability in drug naïve adult females that initiate chronic cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Autumn Taylor
- Department of Biology, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Amanda Nweke
- Department of Biology, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Veniesha Vincent
- Department of Biology, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Marvellous Oke
- Department of Biology, Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Praveen Kulkarni
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Craig F. Ferris
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Psychology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Craig F. Ferris,
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8
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Can statistical and entropy-based features extracted from ECG signals efficiently differentiate the cannabis-consuming women population from the non-consumer? Med Hypotheses 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2022.110952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Eden MJ, Farra YM, Matz J, Bellini C, Oakes JM. Pharmacological and physiological response in Apoe -/- mice exposed to cigarette smoke or e-cigarette aerosols. Inhal Toxicol 2022; 34:260-274. [PMID: 35793285 DOI: 10.1080/08958378.2022.2086948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Electronic cigarettes (e-cigs) are popular nicotine delivery devices, yet the health effects remain unclear. To determine equivalent biomarkers, we characterized the immediate response in Apoe-/- mice exposed to tank/box-mod e-cig (e-cigtank), pod e-cig (e-cigpod), or cig smoke. MATERIALS AND METHODS Reproducible puff profiles were generated for each aerosol and delivered to Apoe-/- mice via a nose-only exposure system. Serum cotinine levels were quantified at various time points through ELISA and utilized to model cotinine pharmacokinetics. In addition, particle size measurements and mouse respiratory function were characterized to calculate particle dosimetry. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Cig and e-cigtank particles were lognormally distributed with similar count median diameters (cig: 178 ± 2, e-cigtank: 200 ± 34nm), while e-cigpod particles were bimodally distributed and smaller (116 ± 13 and 13.3 ± 0.4 nm). Minute volumes decreased with cig exposure (5.4 ± 2.7 mL/min) compared to baseline (90.8 ± 11.6 mL/min), and less so with e-cigtank (45.2 ± 9.2 mL/min) and e-cigpod exposures (58.6 ± 6.8 mL/min), due to periods of apnea in the cig exposed groups. Cotinine was absorbed and eliminated most rapidly in the e-cigpod group (tmax = 14.5; t1/2' = 51.9 min), whereas cotinine was absorbed (cig: 50.4, e-cigtank: 40.1 min) and eliminated (cig: 104.6, e-cigtank: 94.1 min) similarly in the cig and e-cigtank groups. For exposure times which equate the area under the cotinine-concentration curve, ∼6.4× (e-cigtank) and 4.6× (e-cigpod) more nicotine deposited in e-cig compared to cig exposed mice. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a basis for incorporating cotinine pharmacokinetics into preclinical exposure studies, allowing for longitudinal studies of structural and functional changes due to exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Eden
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yasmeen M Farra
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jacqueline Matz
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Chiara Bellini
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jessica M Oakes
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
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10
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Coleman JR, Madularu D, Ortiz RJ, Athanassiou M, Knudsen A, Alkislar I, Cai X, Kulkarni PP, Cushing BS, Ferris CF. Changes in brain structure and function following chronic exposure to inhaled vaporised cannabis during periadolescence in female and male mice: A multimodal MRI study. Addict Biol 2022; 27:e13169. [PMID: 35470553 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Social norms and legality surrounding the use of medical and recreational cannabis are changing rapidly. The prevalence of cannabis use in adolescence is increasing. The aim of this study was to assess any sex-based neurobiological effects of chronically inhaled, vaporised cannabis on adolescent female and male mice. METHODS Female and male mice were exposed daily to vaporised cannabis (10.3% Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol [THC] and 0.05% cannabidiol [CBD]) or placebo from postnatal day 23 to day 51. Following cessation of treatment, mice were examined for changes in brain structure and function using noninvasive multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Data from voxel-based morphometry, diffusion weighted imaging and rest state functional connectivity were registered to and analysed with a 3D mouse atlas with 139 brain areas. Following imaging, mice were tested for their preference for a novel object. RESULTS The effects were sexually dimorphic with females showing a unique distribution and inverse correlation between measures of fractional anisotropy and apparent diffusion coefficient localised to the forebrain and hindbrain. In contrast males displayed significant increased functional coupling with the thalamus, hypothalamus and brainstem reticular activating system as compared with controls. Cannabis males also presented with altered hippocampal coupling and deficits in cognitive function. CONCLUSION Chronic exposure to inhaled vaporised cannabis had significant effects on brain structure and function in early adulthood corroborating much of the literature. Females presented with changes in grey matter microarchitecture, while males showed altered functional connectivity in hippocampal circuitry and deficits in object recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R. Coleman
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging Northeastern University Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Dan Madularu
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging Northeastern University Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Richard J. Ortiz
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Texas at El Paso El Paso Texas USA
| | - Maria Athanassiou
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal Montreal Québec Canada
| | - Alexa Knudsen
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging Northeastern University Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Ilayda Alkislar
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging Northeastern University Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Xuezhu Cai
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging Northeastern University Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Praveen P. Kulkarni
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging Northeastern University Boston Massachusetts USA
| | - Bruce S. Cushing
- Department of Biological Sciences University of Texas at El Paso El Paso Texas USA
| | - Craig F. Ferris
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging Northeastern University Boston Massachusetts USA
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11
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Ferris CF. Applications in Awake Animal Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:854377. [PMID: 35450017 PMCID: PMC9017993 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.854377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There are numerous publications on methods and applications for awake functional MRI across different species, e.g., voles, rabbits, cats, dogs, and rhesus macaques. Each of these species, most obviously rhesus monkey, have general or unique attributes that provide a better understanding of the human condition. However, much of the work today is done on rodents. The growing number of small bore (≤30 cm) high field systems 7T- 11.7T favor the use of small animals. To that point, this review is primarily focused on rodents and their many applications in awake function MRI. Applications include, pharmacological MRI, drugs of abuse, sensory evoked stimuli, brain disorders, pain, social behavior, and fear.
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12
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Moore CF, Stiltner JW, Davis CM, Weerts EM. Translational models of cannabinoid vapor exposure in laboratory animals. Behav Pharmacol 2022; 33:63-89. [PMID: 33136615 PMCID: PMC8079522 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis is one of the most frequently used psychoactive substances in the world. The most common route of administration for cannabis and cannabinoid constituents such as Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) is via smoking or vapor inhalation. Preclinical vapor models have been developed, although the vaporization devices and delivery methods vary widely across laboratories. This review examines the emerging field of preclinical vapor models with a focus on cannabinoid exposure in order to (1) summarize vapor exposure parameters and other methodological details across studies; (2) discuss the pharmacological and behavioral effects produced by exposure to vaporized cannabinoids; and (3) compare behavioral effects of cannabinoid vapor administration with those of other routes of administration. This review will serve as a guide for past and current vapor delivery methods in animals, synergize findings across studies, and propose future directions for this area of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine F. Moore
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jeffrey W. Stiltner
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Catherine M. Davis
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Elise M. Weerts
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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13
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Petrie GN, Nastase AS, Aukema RJ, Hill MN. Endocannabinoids, cannabinoids and the regulation of anxiety. Neuropharmacology 2021; 195:108626. [PMID: 34116110 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis has been used for hundreds of years, with its ability to dampen feelings of anxiety often reported as a primary reason for use. Only recently has the specific role cannabinoids play in anxiety been thoroughly investigated. Here we discuss the body of evidence describing how endocannabinoids and exogenous cannabinoids are capable of regulating the generation and termination of anxiety states. Disruption of the endogenous cannabinoid (eCB) system following genetic manipulation, pharmacological intervention or stress exposure reliably leads to the generation of an anxiety state. On the other hand, upregulation of eCB signaling is capable of alleviating anxiety-like behaviors in multiple paradigms. When considering exogenous cannabinoid administration, cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) agonists have a biphasic, dose-dependent effect on anxiety such that low doses are anxiolytic while high doses are anxiogenic, a phenomenon that is evident in both rodent models and humans. Translational studies investigating a loss of function mutation in the gene for fatty acid amide hydrolase, the enzyme responsible for metabolizing AEA, have also shown that AEA signaling regulates anxiety in humans. Taken together, evidence reviewed here has outlined a convincing argument for cannabinoids being powerful regulators of both the manifestation and amelioration of anxiety symptoms, and highlights the therapeutic potential of targeting the eCB system for the development of novel classes of anxiolytics. This article is part of the special issue on 'Cannabinoids'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin N Petrie
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Andrei S Nastase
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Robert J Aukema
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Matthew N Hill
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Mathison Centre for Mental Health Education and Research, Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy & Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada.
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14
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Sadaka AH, Ozuna AG, Ortiz RJ, Kulkarni P, Johnson CT, Bradshaw HB, Cushing BS, Li AL, Hohmann AG, Ferris CF. Cannabidiol has a unique effect on global brain activity: a pharmacological, functional MRI study in awake mice. J Transl Med 2021; 19:220. [PMID: 34030718 PMCID: PMC8142641 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-021-02891-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The phytocannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) exhibits anxiolytic activity and has been promoted as a potential treatment for post-traumatic stress disorders. How does CBD interact with the brain to alter behavior? We hypothesized that CBD would produce a dose-dependent reduction in brain activity and functional coupling in neural circuitry associated with fear and defense. Methods During the scanning session awake mice were given vehicle or CBD (3, 10, or 30 mg/kg I.P.) and imaged for 10 min post treatment. Mice were also treated with the 10 mg/kg dose of CBD and imaged 1 h later for resting state BOLD functional connectivity (rsFC). Imaging data were registered to a 3D MRI mouse atlas providing site-specific information on 138 different brain areas. Blood samples were collected for CBD measurements. Results CBD produced a dose-dependent polarization of activation along the rostral-caudal axis of the brain. The olfactory bulb and prefrontal cortex showed an increase in positive BOLD whereas the brainstem and cerebellum showed a decrease in BOLD signal. This negative BOLD affected many areas connected to the ascending reticular activating system (ARAS). The ARAS was decoupled to much of the brain but was hyperconnected to the olfactory system and prefrontal cortex. Conclusion The CBD-induced decrease in ARAS activity is consistent with an emerging literature suggesting that CBD reduces autonomic arousal under conditions of emotional and physical stress. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12967-021-02891-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aymen H Sadaka
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ana G Ozuna
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard J Ortiz
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas At El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA
| | - Praveen Kulkarni
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Clare T Johnson
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Heather B Bradshaw
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Bruce S Cushing
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas At El Paso, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA
| | - Ai-Ling Li
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Andrea G Hohmann
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA.,Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Craig F Ferris
- Center for Translational NeuroImaging, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA. .,Psychology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA. .,Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, 125 NI Hall, 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA, 02115-5000, USA.
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15
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Farra YM, Matz J, Ramkhelawon B, Oakes JM, Bellini C. Structural and functional remodeling of the female Apoe-/- mouse aorta due to chronic cigarette smoke exposure. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2021; 320:H2270-H2282. [PMID: 33834870 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00893.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Despite a decline in popularity over the past several decades, cigarette smoking remains a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Yet, the effects of cigarette smoking on vascular structure and function are largely unknown. To evaluate changes in the mechanical properties of the aorta that occur with chronic smoking, we exposed female apolipoprotein E-deficient mice to mainstream cigarette smoke daily for 24 wk, with room air as control. By the time of euthanasia, cigarette-exposed mice had lower body mass but experienced larger systolic/diastolic blood pressure when compared with controls. Smoking was associated with significant wall thickening, reduced axial stretch, and circumferential material softening of the aorta. Although this contributed to maintaining intrinsic tissue stiffness at control levels despite larger pressure loads, the structural stiffness became significantly larger. Furthermore, the aorta from cigarette-exposed mice exhibited decreased ability to store elastic energy and augment diastolic blood flow. Histological analysis revealed a region-dependent increase in the cross-sectional area due to smoking. Increased smooth muscle and extracellular matrix content led to medial thickening in the ascending aorta, whereas collagen deposition increased the thickness of the descending thoracic and abdominal aorta. Atherosclerotic lesions were larger in exposed vessels and featured a necrotic core overlaid by a thinned fibrous cap and macrophage infiltration, consistent with a vulnerable phenotype. Collectively, our data indicate that cigarette smoking decreases the mechanical functionality of the aorta, inflicts morphometric alterations to distinct segments of the aorta, and accelerates the progression of atherosclerosis.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We studied the effects of chronic cigarette smoking on the structure and function of the aorta in a mouse model of nose-only aerosol inhalation. Our data indicated that exposure to cigarette smoke impairs vascular function by reducing the ability of the aorta to store elastic energy and by decreasing aortic distensibility. Combined with a more vulnerable atherosclerotic phenotype, these findings reveal the biomechanical mechanisms that support the development of cardiovascular disease due to cigarette smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmeen M Farra
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jacqueline Matz
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Bhama Ramkhelawon
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, New York University Langone Health, New York City, New York.,Department of Cell Biology, New York University Langone Health, New York City, New York
| | - Jessica M Oakes
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Chiara Bellini
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
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16
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Alkislar I, Miller AR, Hohmann AG, Sadaka AH, Cai X, Kulkarni P, Ferris CF. Inhaled Cannabis Suppresses Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathic Nociception by Decoupling the Raphe Nucleus: A Functional Imaging Study in Rats. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY: COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2020; 6:479-489. [PMID: 33622657 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Efficacy of inhaled cannabis for treating pain is controversial. Effective treatment for chemotherapy-induced neuropathy represents an unmet medical need. We hypothesized that cannabis reduces neuropathic pain by reducing functional coupling in the raphe nuclei. METHODS We assessed the impact of inhalation of vaporized cannabis plant (containing 10.3% Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol/0.05% cannabidiol) or placebo cannabis on brain resting-state blood oxygen level-dependent functional connectivity and pain behavior induced by paclitaxel in rats. Rats received paclitaxel to produce chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy or its vehicle. Behavioral and imaging experiments were performed after neuropathy was established and stable. Images were registered to, and analyzed using, a 3D magnetic resonance imaging rat atlas providing site-specific data on more than 168 different brain areas. RESULTS Prior to vaporization, paclitaxel produced cold allodynia. Inhaled vaporized cannabis increased cold withdrawal latencies relative to prevaporization or placebo cannabis, consistent with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol-induced antinociception. In paclitaxel-treated rats, the midbrain serotonergic system, comprising the dorsal and median raphe, showed hyperconnectivity to cortical, brainstem, and hippocampal areas, consistent with nociceptive processing. Inhalation of vaporized cannabis uncoupled paclitaxel-induced hyperconnectivity patterns. No such changes in connectivity or cold responsiveness were observed following placebo cannabis vaporization. CONCLUSIONS Inhaled vaporized cannabis plant uncoupled brain resting-state connectivity in the raphe nuclei, normalizing paclitaxel-induced hyperconnectivity to levels observed in vehicle-treated rats. Inhaled vaporized cannabis produced antinociception in both paclitaxel- and vehicle-treated rats. Our study elucidates neural circuitry implicated in the therapeutic effects of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and supports a role for functional imaging studies in animals in guiding indications for future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilayda Alkislar
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alison R Miller
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andrea G Hohmann
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Program in Neuroscience, and Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Aymen H Sadaka
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Xuezhu Cai
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Praveen Kulkarni
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Craig F Ferris
- Center for Translational Neuroimaging, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts.
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17
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Mueller AV, Eden MJ, Oakes JM, Bellini C, Fernandez LA. Quantitative Method for Comparative Assessment of Particle Removal Efficiency of Fabric Masks as Alternatives to Standard Surgical Masks for PPE. MATTER 2020; 3:950-962. [PMID: 32838296 DOI: 10.1101/2020.04.17.20069567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, cloth masks are being used to control the spread of virus, but the efficacy of these loose-fitting masks is not well known. Here, tools and methods typically used to assess tight-fitting respirators were modified to quantify the efficacy of community-produced and commercially produced fabric masks as personal protective equipment. Two particle counters concurrently sample ambient air and air inside the masks; mask performance is evaluated by mean particle removal efficiency and statistical variability when worn as designed and with a nylon overlayer, to independently assess fit and material. Worn as designed, both commercial surgical masks and cloth masks had widely varying effectiveness (53%-75% and 28%-91% particle removal efficiency, respectively). Most surgical-style masks improved with the nylon overlayer, indicating poor fit. This rapid testing method uses widely available hardware, requires only a few calculations from collected data, and provides both a holistic and aspect-wise evaluation of mask performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy V Mueller
- Departments of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Marine and Environmental Science, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Matthew J Eden
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jessica M Oakes
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Chiara Bellini
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Loretta A Fernandez
- Departments of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Marine and Environmental Science, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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18
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Mueller AV, Eden MJ, Oakes JM, Bellini C, Fernandez LA. Quantitative Method for Comparative Assessment of Particle Removal Efficiency of Fabric Masks as Alternatives to Standard Surgical Masks for PPE. MATTER 2020; 3:950-962. [PMID: 32838296 PMCID: PMC7346791 DOI: 10.1016/j.matt.2020.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, cloth masks are being used to control the spread of virus, but the efficacy of these loose-fitting masks is not well known. Here, tools and methods typically used to assess tight-fitting respirators were modified to quantify the efficacy of community-produced and commercially produced fabric masks as personal protective equipment. Two particle counters concurrently sample ambient air and air inside the masks; mask performance is evaluated by mean particle removal efficiency and statistical variability when worn as designed and with a nylon overlayer, to independently assess fit and material. Worn as designed, both commercial surgical masks and cloth masks had widely varying effectiveness (53%-75% and 28%-91% particle removal efficiency, respectively). Most surgical-style masks improved with the nylon overlayer, indicating poor fit. This rapid testing method uses widely available hardware, requires only a few calculations from collected data, and provides both a holistic and aspect-wise evaluation of mask performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy V Mueller
- Departments of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Marine and Environmental Science, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Matthew J Eden
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jessica M Oakes
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Chiara Bellini
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Loretta A Fernandez
- Departments of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Marine and Environmental Science, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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