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Elevated Electron Temperature Coincident with Observed Fusion Reactions in a Sheared-Flow-Stabilized Z Pinch. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2024; 132:155101. [PMID: 38682996 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.132.155101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
The sheared-flow-stabilized Z pinch concept has been studied extensively and is able to produce fusion-relevant plasma parameters along with neutron production over several microseconds. We present here elevated electron temperature results spatially and temporally coincident with the plasma neutron source. An optical Thomson scattering apparatus designed for the FuZE device measures temperatures in the range of 1-3 keV on the axis of the device, 20 cm downstream of the nose cone. The 17-fiber system measures the radial profiles of the electron temperature. Scanning the laser time with respect to the neutron pulse time over a series of discharges allows the reconstruction of the T_{e} temporal response, confirming that the electron temperature peaks simultaneously with the neutron output, as well as the pinch current and inductive voltage generated within the plasma. Comparison to spectroscopic ion temperature measurements suggests a plasma in thermal equilibrium. The elevated T_{e} confirms the presence of a plasma assembled on axis, and indicates limited radiative losses, demonstrating a basis for scaling this device toward net gain fusion conditions.
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Re: Physician associates in interventional radiology: a new paradigm? Clin Radiol 2024; 79:e634-e635. [PMID: 38238149 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2023.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
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A British Society for Haematology Guideline: Diagnosis and management of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and thrombotic microangiopathies. Br J Haematol 2023; 203:546-563. [PMID: 37586700 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.19026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this guideline is to provide healthcare professionals with clear, up-to-date and practical guidance on the management of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and related thrombotic microangiopathies (TMAs), including complement-mediated haemolytic uraemic syndrome (CM HUS); these are defined by thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia (MAHA) and small vessel thrombosis. Within England, all TTP cases should be managed within designated regional centres as per NHSE commissioning for highly specialised services.
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Chemical availability of fallout radionuclides in cryoconite. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2023; 268-269:107260. [PMID: 37536005 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2023.107260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Atmospheric deposition on glaciers is a major source of legacy fallout radionuclides (FRNs) accumulating in cryoconite, a dark granular material with surface properties that efficiently bind FRN contaminants (specifically 137Cs; 210Pb; 241Am). Cryoconite-bound FRNs in glaciers can be released when they interact with and are transported by glacial meltwater, resulting in the discharge of amassed particulate contaminants into aquatic and terrestrial environments downstream. The environmental consequences of FRN release from the cryosphere are poorly understood, including impacts of cryoconite-sourced FRNs for alpine food chains. Consequently, there is limited understanding of potential health risks to humans and animals associated with the consumption of radiologically-contaminated meltwater. To assess the chemical availability of cryoconite-adsorbed FRNs we used a three-stage sequential chemical extraction method, applied to cryoconite samples from glaciers in Sweden and Iceland, with original FRN activity concentrations up to 3300 Bq kg-1 for 137Cs, 10,950 Bq kg-1 for unsupported 210Pb (210Pbun) and 24.1 Bq kg-1 for 241Am, and orders of magnitude above regional backgrounds. Our results demonstrate that FRNs attached to cryoconite are solubilized to different degrees, resulting in a stage-wise release of 210Pbun involving significant stepwise solubilization, while 137Cs and 241Am tend to be retained more in the particulate phase. This work provides an insight into the vulnerability of pristine glacial environments to the mobilization of FRN-contaminated particles released during glacier melting, and their potential impact on glacial-dependent ecology.
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Fragmentomic analysis of circulating tumor DNA-targeted cancer panels. Ann Oncol 2023; 34:813-825. [PMID: 37330052 PMCID: PMC10527168 DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2023.06.001] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The isolation of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from the bloodstream can be used to detect and analyze somatic alterations in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and multiple cfDNA-targeted sequencing panels are now commercially available for Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved biomarker indications to guide treatment. More recently, cfDNA fragmentation patterns have emerged as a tool to infer epigenomic and transcriptomic information. However, most of these analyses used whole-genome sequencing, which is insufficient to identify FDA-approved biomarker indications in a cost-effective manner. PATIENTS AND METHODS We used machine learning models of fragmentation patterns at the first coding exon in standard targeted cancer gene cfDNA sequencing panels to distinguish between cancer and non-cancer patients, as well as the specific tumor type and subtype. We assessed this approach in two independent cohorts: a published cohort from GRAIL (breast, lung, and prostate cancers, non-cancer, n = 198) and an institutional cohort from the University of Wisconsin (UW; breast, lung, prostate, bladder cancers, n = 320). Each cohort was split 70%/30% into training and validation sets. RESULTS In the UW cohort, training cross-validated accuracy was 82.1%, and accuracy in the independent validation cohort was 86.6% despite a median ctDNA fraction of only 0.06. In the GRAIL cohort, to assess how this approach performs in very low ctDNA fractions, training and independent validation were split based on ctDNA fraction. Training cross-validated accuracy was 80.6%, and accuracy in the independent validation cohort was 76.3%. In the validation cohort where the ctDNA fractions were all <0.05 and as low as 0.0003, the cancer versus non-cancer area under the curve was 0.99. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that sequencing from targeted cfDNA panels can be utilized to analyze fragmentation patterns to classify cancer types, dramatically expanding the potential capabilities of existing clinically used panels at minimal additional cost.
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Incidence of sex chromosome aneuploidy in a prenatal population: 27-year longitudinal study in Northern Italy. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2023; 62:266-272. [PMID: 36929222 DOI: 10.1002/uog.26201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The availability of cell-free (cf) DNA as a prenatal screening tool affords an opportunity for non-invasive identification of sex chromosome aneuploidy (SCA). The aims of this longitudinal study were to investigate the evolution and frequency of both invasive prenatal diagnostic testing, using amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS), and the detection of SCA in cfDNA samples from a large unselected cohort in Northern Italy. METHODS The results of genetic testing from CVS and amniotic fluid samples received from public and private centers in Italy from 1995 to 2021 were collected. Chromosomal analysis was performed by routine Q-banding karyotype. Regression analyses and descriptive statistics were used to determine population data trends regarding the frequency of prenatal diagnostic testing and the identification of SCA, and these were compared with the changes in indication for prenatal diagnostic tests and available screening options. RESULTS Over a period of 27 years, there were 13 939 526 recorded births and 231 227 invasive procedures were performed, resulting in the prenatal diagnosis of 933 SCAs. After the commercial introduction of cfDNA use in 2015, the frequency of invasive procedures decreased significantly (P = 0.03), while the frequency of prenatal SCA detection increased significantly (P = 0.007). Between 2016 and 2021, a high-risk cfDNA result was the indication for 31.4% of detected sex chromosome trisomies, second only to advanced maternal age. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the inclusion of SCA in prenatal cfDNA screening tests can increase the prenatal diagnosis of affected individuals. As the benefits of early ascertainment are increasingly recognized, it is essential that healthcare providers are equipped with comprehensive and evidence-based information regarding the associated phenotypic differences and the availability of targeted effective interventions to improve neurodevelopmental and health outcomes for affected individuals. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Background levels of body fluids and DNA on the shaft of the penis and associated underpants in the absence of sexual activity. Sci Justice 2023; 63:529-536. [PMID: 37453785 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2023.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
This study examines the background of blood, saliva, semen and autosomal DNA on penile swabs and underpants from males in the absence of recent sexual activity. Based on the data collected by the AFSP Body Fluid Forum, the results of this study show that; there is a very low expectation of detecting blood on penile swabs and male underpants; a low expectation of detecting saliva on penile swabs and male underpants; and spermatozoa would be expected in less than a quarter of penile swabs and three quarters of male underpants. As none of the samples had detectable levels of DNA which were suitable for meaningful comparison that did not match the donor or their partner, the expectation of detecting a DNA profile from the cellular background on penile swabs or underpants from a male who has not been involved in recent sexual intercourse is very low. The results of this study are extremely informative when evaluating the significance of blood, saliva, semen and DNA detected on the penile swabs and underpants of males in cases of alleged sexual assault.
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Comparison of Quality of Life and Psychiatric Symptoms Between Patients With Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Those With Constipation-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome. GASTRO HEP ADVANCES 2023; 2:623-625. [PMID: 37539022 PMCID: PMC10399643 DOI: 10.1016/j.gastha.2023.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
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Abstract No. 601 Long-Term Outcomes of MR-Guided Focused Ultrasound for Treatment of Symptomatic Uterine Fibroids. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2022.12.459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
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A Review of the Metrics Used to Assess Auto-Contouring Systems in Radiotherapy. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2023; 35:354-369. [PMID: 36803407 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2023.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Auto-contouring could revolutionise future planning of radiotherapy treatment. The lack of consensus on how to assess and validate auto-contouring systems currently limits clinical use. This review formally quantifies the assessment metrics used in studies published during one calendar year and assesses the need for standardised practice. A PubMed literature search was undertaken for papers evaluating radiotherapy auto-contouring published during 2021. Papers were assessed for types of metric and the methodology used to generate ground-truth comparators. Our PubMed search identified 212 studies, of which 117 met the criteria for clinical review. Geometric assessment metrics were used in 116 of 117 studies (99.1%). This includes the Dice Similarity Coefficient used in 113 (96.6%) studies. Clinically relevant metrics, such as qualitative, dosimetric and time-saving metrics, were less frequently used in 22 (18.8%), 27 (23.1%) and 18 (15.4%) of 117 studies, respectively. There was heterogeneity within each category of metric. Over 90 different names for geometric measures were used. Methods for qualitative assessment were different in all but two papers. Variation existed in the methods used to generate radiotherapy plans for dosimetric assessment. Consideration of editing time was only given in 11 (9.4%) papers. A single manual contour as a ground-truth comparator was used in 65 (55.6%) studies. Only 31 (26.5%) studies compared auto-contours to usual inter- and/or intra-observer variation. In conclusion, significant variation exists in how research papers currently assess the accuracy of automatically generated contours. Geometric measures are the most popular, however their clinical utility is unknown. There is heterogeneity in the methods used to perform clinical assessment. Considering the different stages of system implementation may provide a framework to decide the most appropriate metrics. This analysis supports the need for a consensus on the clinical implementation of auto-contouring.
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1348 A QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT TO IMPROVE ASSESSMENT AND DOCUMENTATION FOLLOWING INPATIENT FALLS. Age Ageing 2023. [DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afac322.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Inpatient falls are a major cause of avoidable harm in patients on elderly care wards. Delays in identification of fall precipitants and recognition of sustained injuries increases morbidity, mortality and length of stay (Cameron et al, Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018 Sep; 2018(9)). Patients sustaining falls are often initially assessed by postgraduate year 1 and 2 doctors independently. We aimed to improve patient outcomes following inpatient falls through standardisation of the assessment and documentation following a fall in hospital.
Methods
Using PDSA methodology, incident reports and documentation of inpatient falls were reviewed retrospectively over three 28-bedded elderly care wards. A post-falls proforma was devised that covered various domains of the post-fall assessment and was distributed to doctors throughout the hospital. Following the intervention, a repeat PDSA cycle was performed prospectively over the same wards and the proportion of assessments fulfilling each domain was compared between the cycles.
Results
Medical assessment of 27 falls from November 2020 to January 2021 was compared to 31 falls occurring between February and May 2022. Use of the proforma in cycle 2 was limited to 8/31 falls following intervention. Post-intervention, the proportion of assessments fulfilling medication review (19% vs 35%, p=0.14) and anticoagulation status (41% vs 55%, p=0.28) was improved. The proportion fulfilling fall circumstances (89% vs 90%, p=0.85), medical precipitant (70% vs 61%, p=0.46) and ordering of appropriate imaging (93% vs 97%, p=0.47) remained high.
Conclusion
Standardisation of post-falls assessment and documentation can improve patient safety outcomes through reducing delay in recognition of medical precipitants of falls and identification and management of sustained injuries. Improved integration of a post-falls proforma into electronic systems is needed to maximise its clinical benefit and would be the target of a further PDSA cycle.
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Psychological and psychosocial aspects of major trauma care: A survey of current practice across UK and Ireland. TRAUMA-ENGLAND 2023. [DOI: 10.1177/14604086221145529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Psychological and psychosocial impacts of major trauma, defined as any injury that has the potential to be life-threatening and/or life changing, are common, far-reaching and often enduring. There is evidence that these aspects of major trauma care are often underserved. The aim of this research was to gain insight into the current provision and operationalisation of psychological and psychosocial aspects of major trauma care across the UK and Ireland. Methods A cross-sectional online survey, open to health professionals working in major trauma network hospitals was undertaken. The survey had 69 questions across six sections: Participant Demographics, Psychological First Aid, Psychosocial Assessment and Care, Assessing and Responding to Distress, Clinical Psychology Services, and Major Trauma Keyworker (Coordinator) Role. Results There were 102 respondents from across the regions and from a range of professional groups. Survey findings indicate a lack of formalised systems to assess, respond and evaluate psychological and psychosocial aspects of major trauma care, most notably for patients with lower-level distress and psychosocial support needs, and for trauma populations that don't reach threshold for serious injury or complex health need. The findings highlight the role of major trauma keyworkers (coordinators) in psychosocial aspects of care and that although major trauma clinical psychology services are increasingly embedded, many lack the capacity to meet demand. Conclusion Neglecting psychological and psychosocial aspects of major trauma care may extend peritraumatic distress, result in preventable Years Lived with Disability and widen post-trauma health inequalities. A stepped psychological and psychosocial care pathway for major trauma patients and their families from the point of injury and continuing as they move through services towards recovery is needed. Research to fulfil knowledge gaps to develop and implement such a model for major trauma populations should be prioritised along with the development of corresponding service specifications for providers.
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Correspondence - Ultrasound for Lumbar Punctures - An Invaluable tool for the Acute Physician. Acute Med 2023; 22:106. [PMID: 37306137 DOI: 10.52964/amja.0943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The traditional procedure of identifying anatomical landmarks when performing lumbar punctures can lead to a failure rate of 19%. The Society of Hospital Medicine have published a statement, recommending use of ultrasound (US) guidance for all adult lumbar punctures (LP). A recent meta-analysis found several advantages of point of care US guided LP: higher success rate and diminished pain. US assisted LP is easy to learn, integrating ultrasound guided LP into Acute Medicine curriculum, could lead to better patient outcome.
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Evidence of microplastic-mediated transfer of PCB-153 to sea urchin tissues using radiotracers. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 185:114322. [PMID: 36427378 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The present study reports the first experimental microplastic-mediated transfer of a key PCB congener into adult specimens of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus. Three experiments were conducted to assess whether 14C-PCB-153 adsorbed onto negatively buoyant microplastics (MPs) (500-600 μm) is bioavailable to the sea urchin: (1) exposure to a low concentration of 14C-PCB-153 sorbed onto a high number of virgin MPs ("lowPCB highMP" experiment), (2) exposure to a high concentration of 14C-PCB-153 sorbed onto a relatively low number of virgin MPs ("highPCB lowMP" experiment), and (3) exposure to a low concentration of 14C-PCB-153 sorbed onto a relatively low number of aged MP ("lowPCB lowMP" experiment). Results showed that the transfer of 14C-PCB-153 from MPs to sea urchin tissues occurred in each of the three 15-day experiments, suggesting that MPs located on the seafloor may act as vectors of PCB-153 to sea urchins even during short-term exposure events.
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Definitive Taylor Spatial Frame management for the treatment of high-energy open tibial fractures: Clinical and patient-reported outcomes. Injury 2022; 53:4104-4113. [PMID: 36424690 DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2022.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High energy open tibial fractures are complex injuries with no consensus on the optimal method of fixation. Treatment outcomes are often reported with union and re-operation rates, often without specific definitions being provided. We sought to describe union, reoperation rates, and patient reported outcomes, using the validated EQ-VAS and Disability Rating Index (DRI) scores, following stabilisation with a Taylor Spatial Frame (TSF) and a combined orthoplastic approach for the management of soft tissues. A literature review is also provided. METHOD A prospective cross-sectional follow up of open tibial fractures, treated at a level 1 major trauma centre, managed with a TSF using a one ring per segment technique between January 2014 and December 2019 were identified. Demographic, injury and operative data were recorded, along with Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROM) scores, specifically the EQ-VAS and Disability Rating Index (DRI). Union rates, defined by radiographic union scale in tibia (RUST) scores, and re-operation rates were recorded. Appropriate statistical analyses were performed, with a p<0.05 considered statistically significant. RESULTS Overall, 51 patients were included. Mean age was 51.2 ± 17.4 years, with a 4:1 male preponderance. Diaphyseal and distal fractures accounted for 76% of cases. Mean time in frame was 206.7 ± 149.4 days. Union was defined and was achieved in 41/51 (80.4%) patients. Deep infection occurred in 6/51 (11.8%) patients. Amputation was performed in 1 case (1.9%). Overall re-operation rate was 33%. Time to union were significantly longer if re-operation was required for any reason (uncomplicated 204±189 vs complicated 304±155 days; p = 0.0017) . EQ-VAS and DRI scores significantly deteriorated at 1 year follow-up (EQVAS 87.5 ± 11.7 vs 66.5 ± 20.4;p<0.0001 and DRI 11.9 ± 17.8 vs 39.3 ± 23.3;p<0.0001). At 1 year post op, 23/51(45.1%) required a walking aid, and 17/29 (58.6%) of those working pre-injury had returned to work. CONCLUSION Open tibial fracture have significant morbidity and long recovery periods as determined by EQVAS and DRI outcome measures. We report the largest series of open tibial feature treated primarily with a TSF construct, which has similar outcomes to other techniques, and should therefore be considered as a useful technique for managing these injuries.
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Bioaccumulation of inorganic and organic mercury in the cuttlefish Sepia officinalis: Influence of ocean acidification and food type. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 215:114201. [PMID: 36057331 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The bioaccumulation of mercury (Hg) in marine organisms through various pathways has not yet been fully explored, particularly in cephalopods. This study utilises radiotracer techniques using the isotope 203Hg to investigate the toxicokinetics and the organotropism of waterborne inorganic Hg (iHg) and dietary inorganic and organic Hg (methylHg, MeHg) in juvenile common cuttlefish Sepia officinalis. The effect of two contrasting CO2 partial pressures in seawater (400 and 1600 μatm, equivalent to pH 8.08 and 7.54, respectively) and two types of prey (fish and shrimp) were tested as potential driving factors of Hg bioaccumulation. After 14 days of waterborne exposure, juvenile cuttlefish showed a stable concentration factor of 709 ± 54 and 893 ± 117 at pH 8.08 and 7.54, respectively. The accumulated dissolved i203Hg was depurated relatively rapidly with a radiotracer biological half-life (Tb1/2) of 44 ± 12 and 55 ± 16 days at pH 8.08 and 7.54, respectively. During the whole exposure period, approximately half of the i203Hg was found in the gills, but i203Hg also increased in the digestive gland. When fed with 203Hg-radiolabelled prey, cuttlefish assimilated almost all the Hg provided (>95%) independently of the prey type. Nevertheless, the prey type played a major role on the depuration kinetics with Hg Tb1/2 approaching infinity in fish fed cuttlefish vs. 25 days in shrimp fed cuttlefish. Such a difference is explained by the different proportion of Hg species in the prey, with fish prey containing more than 80% of MeHg vs. only 30% in shrimp. Four days after ingestion of radiolabelled food, iHg was primarily found in the digestive organs while MeHg was transferred towards the muscular tissues. No significant effect of pH/pCO2 variation was observed during both the waterborne and dietary exposures on the bioaccumulation kinetics and tissue distribution of i203Hg and Me203Hg. Dietary exposure is the predominant pathway of Hg bioaccumulation in juvenile cuttlefish.
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A 2-4 keV multilayer mirrored channel for the NIF Dante system. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2022; 93:113502. [PMID: 36461505 DOI: 10.1063/5.0101695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
During inertial confinement fusion experiments at the National Ignition Facility (NIF), a capsule filled with deuterium and tritium (DT) gas, surrounded by a DT ice layer and a high-density carbon ablator, is driven to the temperature and densities required to initiate fusion. In the indirect method, 2 MJ of NIF laser light heats the inside of a gold hohlraum to a radiation temperature of 300 eV; thermal x rays from the hohlraum interior couple to the capsule and create a central hotspot at tens of millions degrees Kelvin and a density of 100-200 g/cm3. During the laser interaction with the gold wall, m-band x rays are produced at ∼2.5 keV; these can penetrate into the capsule and preheat the ablator and DT fuel. Preheat can impact instability growth rates in the ablation front and at the fuel-ablator interface. Monitoring the hohlraum x-ray spectrum throughout the implosion is, therefore, critical; for this purpose, a Multilayer Mirror (MLM) with flat response in the 2-4 keV range has been installed in the NIF 37° Dante calorimeter. Precision engineering and x-ray calibration of components mean the channel will report 2-4 keV spectral power with an uncertainty of ±8.7%.
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The German national public health institute’s journey to becoming a Key Climate Actor: The Robert Koch Institute’s strategy development process. Eur J Public Health 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckac129.227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) is Germany's national public health institute. It has been working for a number of years on One Health topics such as zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial resistance, as well as wider areas relevant to climate change such as environmental health. Climate change has, however, only been a specific area of focus since 2019. This was signalled through the creation of a coordination role called One Health Climate Change (OHCC). In addition, a number of projects on climate change have been initiated independently of one another during this time across the RKI. Since summer 2021, RKI has been more active in its strategic development and set up a climate change and health working group of over 50 members of staff representing all departments. This offers a hub structure for pulling the relevant work and activities together under one umbrella, thereby promoting exchange, cooperation and cohesion across RKI. The RKI is currently at an early and dynamic phase in its journey as a key Climate Actor. It is developing a strategy on the topic, guided by the “IANPHI Roadmap for Action on Health and Climate Change” in order to further strengthen its contribution in this area. This presentation will share how RKI has developed its strategy and its action plan for implementation, as well as some of the successes and challenges in their development.
The presentation aims to:
• promote shared learning between national public health institutes on climate change and health strategy development;
• provide an opportunity for shaping future planning at RKI through audience input;
• stimulate thinking on how national public health institutes can remain in exchange with key stakeholder groups and open to learning and adaptation of their strategies in order to be effective Key Climate Actors over the long term.
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Variation in health-care quality and outcomes according to time of chest pain presentation: a state-wide prospective cohort study. Eur Heart J 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac544.1474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Previous studies examining temporal variation in cardiovascular care have largely been limited to assessing weekend and after-hours effects whereby those presenting on the weekend or after-hours have a poorer outcome. However, emerging evidence suggests more complex patterns in patterns and outcomes may exist.
Purpose
We aimed to determine patterns of temporal variation in chest pain presentations and subsequent health-care quality and outcomes.
Methods
This was an observational, prospective-cohort study of adult patients aged 18 and over who were attended by emergency medical services for non-traumatic chest pain between 1 January 2015 and 30 June 2019 in Victoria, Australia. Major exclusion criteria included pre-hospital diagnosis of ST elevation myocardial infarction or an out of hospital cardiac arrest. The exposure variable was time of day and day of week stratified into 168 hourly time periods. The primary outcome measure was 30-day mortality.
Results
The study cohort comprised 196,365 ambulance attendances for acute non-traumatic chest pain; mean age 62.4 years (SD 18.3) and 99,497 (50.7%) females. Three temporal patterns were observed for chest pain presentations (Figure 1): (1) a diurnal pattern with a sharp increase in presentations from 8 am, peaking around midday, before decreasing into late evening with a nadir between 3–4 am, (2) a weekend effect where Saturday and Sunday had a relatively lower rate of presentations compared to during the week, and (3) a Monday – Sunday gradient where more presentations were likely earlier in the week, than later. Six patterns were identified across pre-hospital and hospital key performance indicators (KPI) (diurnal, in/after-hours, weekend effect, Monday – Sunday gradient, a peak period and morning vs afternoon/evening effect. Risk of 30-day mortality was associated with weekend presentation (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.06–1.24, p=0.001) and morning presentation between midnight and midday (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.09–1.25, p<0.001) (Figure 2).
Conclusion
Chest pain presentations, care quality and outcomes demonstrate complex temporal variation beyond the already established weekend and after-hours effect. Such relationships should be considered during resource allocation and quality improvement programs in order to improve treatment quality across all days and times of the week.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None.
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Cardiomyocyte stretch mediates the relation between left ventricular amyloid burden and adverse outcomes in light chain amyloidosis: a 18F-florbetapir positron emission tomography study. Eur Heart J 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac544.319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Patients with light chain (AL) amyloidosis and cardiac involvement have poor prognosis. Mayo stage accounts for severity of plasma cell dyscrasia and cardiac biomarker release, and provides powerful risk stratification. Myocardial amyloid burden can be quantified by 18F-florbetapir positron emission tomography (PET), but its prognostic value is not known.
Purpose
To test our hypothesis that (1) myocardial amyloid burden predicts adverse outcomes and (2) the relationship between amyloid burden and adverse outcomes is mediated by cardiomyocyte stretch and injury. Amyloid burden was estimated by left ventricular 18F-florbetapir retention index (RI) and cardiomyocyte stretch and injury by NT proBNP and troponin T respectively.
Methods
We performed 18F-florbetapir PET (median dose 9.05 mCi) in prospectively enrolled subjects with newly diagnosed AL amyloidosis with abnormal cardiac biomarkers or with normal cardiac biomarkers and normal left ventricular wall thickness (NCT02641145). Left ventricular RI was calculated as the activity concentration between 10 and 30 min. after injection divided by the integral of the left atrial blood time-activity curve from 0 to 20 min. RI was categorized as normal (<0.06/min, based on controls), increased (0.06–0.12/min), or high risk (>0.12/min, based on log-rank statistic maximization). Mayo stages I–IV were based on elevated serum cardiac biomarkers: NT-proBNP ≥1800 pg/ml, troponin T ≥0.025 ng/ml, and difference in free light chains ≥180 mg/l. Adverse outcomes of all-cause death or heart failure hospitalization were evaluated. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression including Mayo stage and RI. Mediation analysis was used to elucidate the role of cardiomyocyte stretch (as NT-proBNP) and injury (as troponin T) in the association between amyloid burden estimated by RI and adverse outcomes.
Results
We studied 80 subjects with median age 62 years (IQR 57–67), 46 men (57%), 60 with abnormal cardiac biomarkers (75%), and median RI of 0.10/min (IQR 0.06–0.16). At follow-up (median 15 months), adverse outcomes occurred in 34 subjects (42%), with 17 deaths (21%) and 23 heart failure hospitalizations (29%). The incidence of adverse outcomes increased across Mayo stages from 9% to 44% (log-rank p<0.001), and across RI levels from 29% to 57% (log-rank p=0.037, Figure 1). In multivariable Cox regression, only Mayo stage independently predicted adverse outcomes (HR 2.0 [95% CI 1.4–3.0], p<0.001). Multivariable mediation analysis showed that 83% of the association between RI and adverse outcomes was mediated by NT-proBNP (p<0.001, Figure 2), without contribution from troponin T.
Conclusion
Myocardial amyloid burden estimated by F-18 florbetapir RI predicts adverse outcomes in AL amyloidosis, but not independently of Mayo stage. Cardiomyocyte stretch mediates the relationship between myocardial amyloid burden and adverse outcomes in AL amyloidosis.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: Private company.
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EP08.02-080 EGFR Testing Practices, Treatment Choice and Clinical Outcomes in Advanced NSCLC in a Real-World Setting. J Thorac Oncol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2022.07.762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Size-dependent transfer of microplastics across the intestinal wall of the echinoid Paracentrotus lividus. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 250:106235. [PMID: 35944346 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2022.106235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The fate and toxicity of ingested marine microplastics (MPs) have been of major concern in aquatic ecotoxicology for the last decade. Although their ingestion by a wide range of marine organisms has been proven, the uptake of MPs within organs is not yet fully understood and relies on the ability of ingested microplastics to transfer from the gut to tissues beyond the digestive wall (i.e., translocation). The present study investigates the in vitro transfer of fluorescent high-density polyethylene particles of different sizes classes (1-5 µm; 10-29 µm; 38-45 µm) across the intestinal wall of the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus using Ussing chambers. Small microplastics (1-5 µm) were proven to be able to cross the intestinal wall of P. lividus and reach the coelomic fluid, while larger microplastics (≥ 10 µm) were not observed to cross the intestinal wall. Results demonstrate a size-dependent passage of polyethylene microparticles across the intestinal walls of P. lividus for the first time, highlighting the suitability of Ussing chamber systems to study the transfer of MPs across the intestinal wall of animals.
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Clinical characteristics with inflammation profiling of long COVID and association with 1-year recovery following hospitalisation in the UK: a prospective observational study. THE LANCET. RESPIRATORY MEDICINE 2022; 10:761-775. [PMID: 35472304 PMCID: PMC9034855 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-2600(22)00127-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND No effective pharmacological or non-pharmacological interventions exist for patients with long COVID. We aimed to describe recovery 1 year after hospital discharge for COVID-19, identify factors associated with patient-perceived recovery, and identify potential therapeutic targets by describing the underlying inflammatory profiles of the previously described recovery clusters at 5 months after hospital discharge. METHODS The Post-hospitalisation COVID-19 study (PHOSP-COVID) is a prospective, longitudinal cohort study recruiting adults (aged ≥18 years) discharged from hospital with COVID-19 across the UK. Recovery was assessed using patient-reported outcome measures, physical performance, and organ function at 5 months and 1 year after hospital discharge, and stratified by both patient-perceived recovery and recovery cluster. Hierarchical logistic regression modelling was performed for patient-perceived recovery at 1 year. Cluster analysis was done using the clustering large applications k-medoids approach using clinical outcomes at 5 months. Inflammatory protein profiling was analysed from plasma at the 5-month visit. This study is registered on the ISRCTN Registry, ISRCTN10980107, and recruitment is ongoing. FINDINGS 2320 participants discharged from hospital between March 7, 2020, and April 18, 2021, were assessed at 5 months after discharge and 807 (32·7%) participants completed both the 5-month and 1-year visits. 279 (35·6%) of these 807 patients were women and 505 (64·4%) were men, with a mean age of 58·7 (SD 12·5) years, and 224 (27·8%) had received invasive mechanical ventilation (WHO class 7-9). The proportion of patients reporting full recovery was unchanged between 5 months (501 [25·5%] of 1965) and 1 year (232 [28·9%] of 804). Factors associated with being less likely to report full recovery at 1 year were female sex (odds ratio 0·68 [95% CI 0·46-0·99]), obesity (0·50 [0·34-0·74]) and invasive mechanical ventilation (0·42 [0·23-0·76]). Cluster analysis (n=1636) corroborated the previously reported four clusters: very severe, severe, moderate with cognitive impairment, and mild, relating to the severity of physical health, mental health, and cognitive impairment at 5 months. We found increased inflammatory mediators of tissue damage and repair in both the very severe and the moderate with cognitive impairment clusters compared with the mild cluster, including IL-6 concentration, which was increased in both comparisons (n=626 participants). We found a substantial deficit in median EQ-5D-5L utility index from before COVID-19 (retrospective assessment; 0·88 [IQR 0·74-1·00]), at 5 months (0·74 [0·64-0·88]) to 1 year (0·75 [0·62-0·88]), with minimal improvements across all outcome measures at 1 year after discharge in the whole cohort and within each of the four clusters. INTERPRETATION The sequelae of a hospital admission with COVID-19 were substantial 1 year after discharge across a range of health domains, with the minority in our cohort feeling fully recovered. Patient-perceived health-related quality of life was reduced at 1 year compared with before hospital admission. Systematic inflammation and obesity are potential treatable traits that warrant further investigation in clinical trials. FUNDING UK Research and Innovation and National Institute for Health Research.
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759 Mechanical tension mobilizes Lgr6+ epidermal stem cells to drive skin growth. J Invest Dermatol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2022.05.772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Evaluation of prognostic risk models for postoperative pulmonary complications in adult patients undergoing major abdominal surgery: a systematic review and international external validation cohort study. Lancet Digit Health 2022; 4:e520-e531. [PMID: 35750401 DOI: 10.1016/s2589-7500(22)00069-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stratifying risk of postoperative pulmonary complications after major abdominal surgery allows clinicians to modify risk through targeted interventions and enhanced monitoring. In this study, we aimed to identify and validate prognostic models against a new consensus definition of postoperative pulmonary complications. METHODS We did a systematic review and international external validation cohort study. The systematic review was done in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We searched MEDLINE and Embase on March 1, 2020, for articles published in English that reported on risk prediction models for postoperative pulmonary complications following abdominal surgery. External validation of existing models was done within a prospective international cohort study of adult patients (≥18 years) undergoing major abdominal surgery. Data were collected between Jan 1, 2019, and April 30, 2019, in the UK, Ireland, and Australia. Discriminative ability and prognostic accuracy summary statistics were compared between models for the 30-day postoperative pulmonary complication rate as defined by the Standardised Endpoints in Perioperative Medicine Core Outcome Measures in Perioperative and Anaesthetic Care (StEP-COMPAC). Model performance was compared using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROCC). FINDINGS In total, we identified 2903 records from our literature search; of which, 2514 (86·6%) unique records were screened, 121 (4·8%) of 2514 full texts were assessed for eligibility, and 29 unique prognostic models were identified. Nine (31·0%) of 29 models had score development reported only, 19 (65·5%) had undergone internal validation, and only four (13·8%) had been externally validated. Data to validate six eligible models were collected in the international external validation cohort study. Data from 11 591 patients were available, with an overall postoperative pulmonary complication rate of 7·8% (n=903). None of the six models showed good discrimination (defined as AUROCC ≥0·70) for identifying postoperative pulmonary complications, with the Assess Respiratory Risk in Surgical Patients in Catalonia score showing the best discrimination (AUROCC 0·700 [95% CI 0·683-0·717]). INTERPRETATION In the pre-COVID-19 pandemic data, variability in the risk of pulmonary complications (StEP-COMPAC definition) following major abdominal surgery was poorly described by existing prognostication tools. To improve surgical safety during the COVID-19 pandemic recovery and beyond, novel risk stratification tools are required. FUNDING British Journal of Surgery Society.
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POS-024 COMPLEMENT FACTOR I VARIANTS IN ATYPICAL HEMOLYTIC UREMIC SYNDROME AND C3 GLOMERULOPATHY. Kidney Int Rep 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2022.04.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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PO-1868 A National Survey of the barriers and facilitators to conducting Clinical Trials in Radiotherapy. Radiother Oncol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/s0167-8140(22)03831-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Providing pharmacy support to housebound patients: learning from the COVID-19 pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2022. [PMCID: PMC9383631 DOI: 10.1093/ijpp/riac019.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Housebound patients may face challenges to their medicines management due to reduced household mobility and potential lack of access to healthcare services. Previous literature has explored the medication-related needs of housebound patients from pharmacists’ perspectives (1-2). However little work has focussed on the patient/family perspective. In this study, we used data obtained from those staying at home as much as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic to fill this gap. Aim To explore home medicine practices and safety for people who were housebound during the COVID19 pandemic and to create guidance, from the patient/family perspective, for enabling pharmacists to facilitate safe medicine practices for this population. Methods Interviews were carried out with people who were taking at least one long term medication and met the criteria for ‘shielding’ and/or were over 70 years of age during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK and/or their family carers. Respondents were recruited through patient and public involvement representatives, the research team’s networks, and support groups. Potential participants were approached via personal contact and social media. Interviews were conducted by telephone or video conferencing and participants asked about their medicines management while staying at home. Inductive thematic analysis was carried out. Patient and public involvement representatives were involved in the data analysis alongside the researchers. Results Fifty people were interviewed (16 males, 34 females; mean age 68 years, range 26–93 years). Interview data suggested diversity of experiences of medicines management while staying at home. Some respondents reported no or little change, others an initial crisis followed by re-stabilisation, and others that the pandemic was a tipping point, exacerbating underlying challenges and having negative effects on their health and wellbeing. Medicine safety issues reported included omitted doses and less-effective formulations being used. Participants also described experiencing high levels of anxiety related to obtaining medicines, monitoring medicines and feeling at risk of contracting COVID-19 while accessing medicine-related healthcare services. Key factors identified as facilitating a smooth transition included patients’ own agency, support from family, friends and community, good communication with pharmacy staff, continuity of pharmacy services and synchronisation of medicines supply so that a maximum of one collection/delivery was required each month. Conclusion The study findings that we have presented relate to the UK only; this may limit the generalisability of our findings to other countries. Findings from Ireland are in the process of being analysed and will provide a basis of comparison. In addition, more females took part than males, despite efforts to address this. However, our findings suggest pharmacy staff can support medicines management for people who are housebound by synchronisation of medicines supply, delivering medicines where possible, developing/raising awareness of alternative means of communication, providing continuity of pharmacy services and signposting any community support available. References (1) Kayyali R, Funnell G, Harrap N, Patel A. Can community pharmacy successfully bridge the gap in care for housebound patients? Research in Social and Administrative Pharmacy 2019;15:425-439. (2) Latif A, Mandane B, Anderson E, Barraclough C, Travis S. Optimizing medicine use for people who are homebound: an evaluation of a pilot domiciliary Medicine Use Review (dMUR) service in England. Integr Pharm Res Pract 2018;7:33-40.
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100P Physician perceptions of testing practices in patients with early and advanced stage EGFR mutation-positive (EGFRm) NSCLC: A global survey. Ann Oncol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2022.02.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Risk factors associated with the onset of lomustine‐induced neutropenia in tumour‐bearing dogs. Vet Comp Oncol 2022; 20:577-586. [PMID: 35249267 DOI: 10.1111/vco.12809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Cardiac MRI Findings in Patients presenting With Advanced Conduction System Disease. Heart Lung Circ 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2022.06.233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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LidocAine Versus Opioids In MyocarDial Infarction: The AVOID-2 Randomised Controlled Trial. Heart Lung Circ 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2022.06.349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Variation in Health-Care Quality and Outcomes According to Time of Chest Pain Presentation: A State-Wide Prospective Cohort Study. Heart Lung Circ 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2022.06.402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Impact of Ambulance Off-Load Delays on Mortality in Patients With Chest Pain. Heart Lung Circ 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2022.06.338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Native seed dispersal by rodents is negatively influenced by an invasive shrub. ANIMAL BIODIVERSITY AND CONSERVATION 2021. [DOI: 10.32800/abc.2022.45.0053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Refuge–mediated apparent competition is the mechanism by which invasive plants increase pressure on native plants by providing refuge for generalist consumers. In the UK, the invasive Rhododendron ponticum does not provide food for generalist seed consumers like rodents, but evergreen canopy provides refuge from rodent predators, and predation and pilferage risk are key factors affecting rodent foraging and caching behaviour. Here we used a seed removal/ seed fate experiment to understand how invasion by an evergreen shrub can alter seed dispersal, seed fate and early recruitment of native trees. We used seeds of four species, small and wind–dispersed (sycamore maple Acer pseudoplatanus and European ash Fraxinus excelsior) and large and animal–dispersed (pedunculate oak Quercus robur and common hazel Corylus avellana), and monitored seed predation and caching in open woodland, edge habitats, and under Rhododendron. In the open woodland, wind–dispersed seeds had a higher probability of being eaten in situ than cached seeds, while the opposite occurred with animal–dispersed seeds. The latter were removed from the open woodland and edge habitats and cached under Rhododendron. This pattern was expected if predation risk was the main factor influencing the decision to eat or to cach a seed. Enhanced dispersal towards Rhododendron cover did not increase the prospects for seed survival, as density of hazel and oak saplings under its cover was close to zero as compared to open woodland, possibly due to increased cache pilferage or low seedling survival under dense shade, or both. Enhanced seed predation of ash and sycamore seeds close to Rhododendron cover also decreased recruitment of these trees. Rhododendron patches biased rodent foraging behaviour towards the negative (net predation) side of the conditional rodent / tree interaction. This effect will potentially impact native woodland regeneration and further facilitate Rhododendron spread due to refuge–mediated apparent competition.
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A multifaceted assessment of the effects of polyethylene microplastics on juvenile gilthead seabreams (Sparus aurata). AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 241:106004. [PMID: 34739976 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2021.106004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a major environmental and societal concern in the last decade. From larger debris to microplastics (MP), this pollution is ubiquitous and particularly affects aquatic ecosystems. MP can be directly or inadvertently ingested by organisms, transferred along the trophic chain, and sometimes translocated into tissues. However, the impacts of such MP exposure on organisms' biological functions are yet to be fully understood. Here, we used a multi-diagnostic approach at multiple levels of biological organization (from atoms to organisms) to determine how MP affect the biology of a marine fish, the gilthead seabream, Sparus aurata. We exposed juvenile seabreams for 35 days to spherical 10-20 µm polyethylene primary MP through food (Artemia salina pre-exposed to MP) at a concentration of 5 ± 1 µg of MP per gram of fish per day. MP-exposed fish experienced higher mortality, increased abundance of several brain and liver primary metabolites, hepatic and intestinal histological defects, higher assimilation of an essential element (Zn), and lower assimilation of a non-essential element (Ag). In contrast, growth and muscle C/N isotopic profiles were similar between control and MP-exposed fish, while variable patterns were observed for the intestinal microbiome. This comprehensive analysis of biological responses to MP exposure reveals how MP ingestion can cause negligible to profound effects in a fish species and contributes towards a better understanding of the causal mechanisms of its toxicity.
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Development of a silicon-based thermal neutron system. Phys Med 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/s1120-1797(22)00499-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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Clinical anatomy of the nerve supply to the upper limb. BJA Educ 2021; 21:462-471. [PMID: 34840818 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjae.2021.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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Deoxygenation reduces growth rates and increases assimilation of essential trace metals in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 288:117786. [PMID: 34284207 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The widespread decline in oceanic dissolved oxygen (DO), known as deoxygenation, is a threat to many marine ecosystems, and fish are considered one of the more vulnerable marine organisms. While food intake and growth rates in some fish can be reduced under hypoxic conditions (DO ~ 60 μmol kg-1), the dietary transfer of essential metals remains unclear. In this context, we investigated the influence of DO on the dietary acquisition of two essential metals (Zn and Mn) in the commercially important gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) using radiotracer techniques. Fish were exposed to variable DO conditions (normoxia 100% DO, mild-hypoxia 60% DO, and hypoxia 30% DO), and fed a single radiolabeled food ration containing known activities of 54Mn and 65Zn. Depuration and assimilation mechanisms under these conditions were followed for 19 d. Based on whole body activity after the radio-feeding, food consumption tended to decrease with decreasing oxygen, which likely caused the significantly reduced growth (- 25%) observed at 30% DO after 19 d. While there was an apparent reduction in food consumption with decreasing DO, there was also significantly higher essential metal assimilation with hypoxic conditions. The proportion of 65Zn remaining was significantly higher (~60%) at both low DO levels after 24 h and 19 d while 54Mn was only significantly higher (27%) at the lowest DO after 19 d, revealing element specific effects. These results suggest that under hypoxic conditions, stressed teleost fish may allocate energy away from growth and towards other strategic processes that involve assimilation of essential metals.
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Incidence and predictors of eosinophilic myocardial hypersensitivity in patients receiving home dobutamine. Eur Heart J 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab724.0751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Home inotropes are utilised in those with end-stage heart failure as a bridge to cardiac transplantation. The use of intravenous dobutamine has been linked to cases of eosinophilic myocardial hypersensitivity (EMH), however, little is known about incidence and predictors.
Purpose
We sought to examine the incidence and possible predictors of eosinophilic myocardial hypersensitivity in a cohort of patients on home inotrope therapy at a cardiac transplant centre.
Methods
Patients enrolled in the home inotrope program with progression to heart transplantation or ventricular assist device (VAD) with available myocardial tissue for histopathology, from January 2000 to May 2020 were included. EMH was defined by a pathologist reporting eosinophilic infiltrate with hypersensitivity on myocardial histopathology.
Results
From a cohort of 74 patients, 58% (43) were on dobutamine and 42% (31) were on milrinone. There were zero cases of EMH in those on milrinone. EMH was identified in 14% (6/43) of patients receiving dobutamine. In the dobutamine cohort, the mean age was 52-±12 years, with 22% being female. Non-ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy encompassed 62%, the remaining 38% were ischaemic cardiomyopathy. Median dobutamine dose (250 [200–282] mcg/min vs. 225 [200–291] mcg/min) and duration of therapy (41 [23–79] days vs. 53 [24–91] days) were similar between those with and without EMH. Rates of known allergy (27% vs. 33%) and asthma (1 patient in each group) were also similar between those with and without EMH. Those with EMH had a median peak eosinophil count of 0.40×109/L (IQR 0.21–0.66×109/L) compared to a peak of only 0.10×109/L (IQR 0.06–0.29×109/L) in the non-EMH cohort. There was a significant difference in the change in absolute eosinophil count between groups; over the duration of dobutamine therapy the median change in eosinophil count was 0.31×109/L (IQR 0.21–0.59×109/L) in the EMH group compared to 0.03×109/L (IQR 0.00–0.14×109/L) in the non-EMH cohort (p=0.02). Peak C-reactive protein was similar between groups (42±46mg/L vs. 44±45mg/L). Mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) reduced from 19% (±7%) to 17% (±2%) in those with EMH, while LVEF increased from 20% (±7%) to 22% (±9%) in non-EMH patients (Figure 1), p=NS. Re-presentation with heart failure requiring hospitalisation occurred in 83% in the EMH group compared to only 59% in the non-EMH group (p=0.26). The majority of patients with EMH (83%) required VAD as bridge to transplant, compared to only 41% of non-EMH (p=0.05).
Conclusion(s)
EMH occurred in 14% of patients receiving home dobutamine. Patients who developed EMH were more likely to require escalation in treatment to VAD as a bridge to heart transplant. In patients receiving dobutamine a reduction in LVEF, hospitalisation with decompensated heart failure and rising eosinophil count should prompt physicians to consider EMH.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1
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Tolerability and outcome of palliative treatment for metastatic pulmonary carcinoma in cats. J Small Anim Pract 2021; 62:992-1000. [PMID: 34608648 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Pulmonary carcinoma is uncommon in cats and reporting of outcomes following medical treatment is limited, especially in presence of metastases. The aim of this study was to describe the outcome of cats affected by metastatic primary pulmonary carcinoma and to evaluate the tolerability of palliative treatment in this patient population. MATERIALS AND METHODS Medical records were searched for cats with a cytological or histopathological diagnosis of primary pulmonary carcinoma and evidence of metastatic disease. Cats were treated with antineoplastic agents, corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or received no systemic treatment. Cases in which thoracic CT was not performed, and those lacking definitive diagnosis by cytology or histopathology or receiving curative-intent surgery were excluded. RESULTS Thirty-four cats were identified: 18 were treated with antineoplastic agents and 16 received corticosteroids, NSAIDs or no treatment. Presenting clinical signs included coughing (53%), tachypnoea (26%), gastrointestinal signs (35%) and lethargy (18%). CT scan identified metastases to the lung parenchyma in all cases and additional metastatic lesions in 10 of 34 (59%) cases; pleural effusion was detected in 11 cases (32%). The overall median survival time for all cats was 64 days [range 1-1352 days; 95% confidence interval (CI) 48-164]. Presence of respiratory signs at presentation was the only factor influencing survival in the multivariable analysis. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Medical treatment was well tolerated and appeared to palliate clinical signs in cats with metastatic pulmonary carcinoma, albeit with a modest duration and short overall survival. The role and benefit of chemotherapy/antineoplastic agents versus conventional palliative drugs in this setting remains unclear.
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P48.17 Real-World Study of Patients With EGFR Mutated Locally Advanced or Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treated With First-Line Osimertinib. J Thorac Oncol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2021.08.528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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221 Changes in Emergency Department Visits for Opioid-Related Diagnosis, Opioid Overdose and Buprenorphine Use Across 14 US Emergency Departments During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic. Ann Emerg Med 2021. [PMCID: PMC8536288 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2021.09.233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/30/2022]
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P04.11 10-Year Institutional Retrospective Case Series of WHO Grade II Gliomas and Correlation of Seizures, Lobar Location, Histopathological Subtype and IDH-1 Mutation (2010–2020). Neuro Oncol 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noab180.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
BACKGROUND
A 10-year retrospective case series was undertaken of all patients who had a tissue diagnosis of a World Health Organisation (WHO) Grade II glioma, i.e. low grade glioma (LGGM), at the Institute of Neurological Sciences (INS) between January 2010 and January 2020 (NB: pre-2016 World Health Organisation classification). The objective was to assess the correlation of World Health Organisation (WHO) Grade II gliomas to seizure symptomology, intracerebral tumour location, histopathological glioma sub-type and molecular markers including isocitrate dehydrogenase-1 (IDH-1) mutation.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
We extracted data regarding clinical, radiological, histological, molecular discriminators and functional outcomes in patients. The pre-operative symptomology was restricted to seizures, headache and focal neurological deficits.
RESULTS
84 patients underwent resection and had a mean age of 42rs (range: 21-77yrs]). Seizures (NB: pre-2017 International League against Epilepsy classification [ILAE]) occurred in 71% and of these 52% were generalised, 37% partial and 11% mixed. 31% had ongoing seizures postoperatively. Headache occurred in 38% (of these 50% had headache and seizures). Focal neurological deficits (FNDs) occurred in 21% (of these 61% had FNDs and seizures). Seizure, as an isolated pre-operative symptom occurred in 48% patients compared to isolated headache in 10% and isolated FNDs in 4%. Anatomically, 58% of lesions were frontal. The seizure spatial frequency was 60% frontal. Histologically, 60% were diffuse astrocytomas and 40% oligodendrogliomas. Furthermore, 71% of oligodendrogliomas and 49% of diffuse astrocytomas had a frontal location. IDH-1 mutation occurred in 80% patients (75% of these had seizures) and of these 66% were frontal.
CONCLUSIONS
Our analysis confirms a correlation between incidence of seizures, frontal lobar location, histopathological subtype and IDH-1 mutations (p = <0.05
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Topic: AS06-Prognosis/AS06a-Prognostic factors of outcome and risk assessment. Leuk Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2021.106679.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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An effective method to assess the sorption dynamics of PCB radiotracers onto plastic and sediment microparticles. MethodsX 2021; 8:101395. [PMID: 34430291 PMCID: PMC8374515 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2021.101395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
One important aspect of marine plastic pollution is that small particles are ubiquitously present in seawater and can transport a large variety of co-contaminants. The sorption-desorption kinetics of these co-contaminants sorbed to microplastics (MPs) are not fully understood, partially due to the lack of any standardised procedures between studies. The present work aims at describing a new and efficient method to investigate the sorption of co-contaminants onto different types of particles using proven radiotracer techniques. This work provides recommendations as well as a thorough description of the materials, conditions and procedures required to optimise the adsorption of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) onto particles. Details of the controlled experimental conditions, such as the volume of the container, the concentration of particles, and specifics of the radiotracer are provided. In addition, a thorough description of the novel filtration methodology specific to these radiotracer techniques is presented, for the first time in the literature. To validate the efficiency of the method, we examined the partition coefficients (Kd) of ¹⁴C-PCB#153 onto virgin MP (10-29 µm polyethylene beads) and onto natural sediment particles that are similarly sized (1-17.8 µm) in seawater. After 40 h, plastic particles adsorbed 25.7% of ¹⁴C-PCB#153 while sediment particles adsorbed 89.3% of the same compound. Results suggest that in this scenario, polyethylene MP particles may be less effective transport vectors of ¹⁴C-PCB#153 than natural sediment particles.Details of experimental conditions, such as the volume of the container, and the concentration of particles and of radiotracer, were defined A thorough description of the filtration methodology specific to radiotracer techniques is presented Results highlight that virgin polyethylene MPs may be less effective transport vectors of ¹⁴C-PCB#153 than natural sediment particles.
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Supporting the development of the research and clinical trials therapeutic radiographers workforce: The RaCTTR survey. Radiography (Lond) 2021; 27 Suppl 1:S20-S27. [PMID: 34420887 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Research and Clinical Trials Therapeutic Radiographers network is a College of Radiographers Specialist Interest Group. It was established to develop and facilitate a support network for therapeutic radiographers working in roles which involve the delivery of radiotherapy clinical trials. Its establishment highlighted the challenges faced by therapeutic radiographers employed in these roles. Consequently, the authors sought to formally capture the working landscape of this subsection of the radiographic workforce, aiming to ascertain any potential barriers to professional development and the increase of clinical trials activity by 15% mandated by NHS England. METHODS A Qualtrics survey was designed, pilot tested and distributed to the sixty-two radiotherapy departments across England and the devolved nations. Departments were questioned on the size, structure and the scope of practice of their radiotherapy research and clinical trials team members. FINDINGS Thirty-nine complete responses were received, providing a response rate of 62%, with each region of the UK represented in the survey. The findings demonstrated issues related to the number of posts affecting capacity, contract status jeopardising the security and effectiveness of their role and the activities specific to research and clinical trials being 'bolted on' to existing roles. Although advanced practice was being undertaken by around a third of this workforce the findings established several barriers including individual/teams' capacity and a perceived lack of support for therapeutic radiographers to progress in clinical trials roles. CONCLUSION The findings illustrate several important implications which if not addressed may not only hinder UK radiotherapy departments to achieve the national increase of 15% of clinical trial activity over the next three years but also restrict the growth in size and scope of professional practice of the workforce. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The research and clinical trials workforce need to adopt a collaborative approach to profile raising and establish a standardised professional scope of practice to support growth and recognition of their role.
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Compassionate communication: Keeping patients at the heart of practice in an advancing radiographic workforce. Radiography (Lond) 2021; 27 Suppl 1:S43-S49. [PMID: 34393068 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2021.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Compassion is a poorly understood concept in diagnostic and therapeutic radiography, but an increase in its focus was recommended in the Francis Report (2013). Much of the healthcare literature including policy and protocol has focussed on benchmarking and individualising compassion. Two separately conducted doctoral research projects, one therapeutic and one diagnostic, aimed to conceptualise compassion in order to understand its meaning and behavioural expression. METHODS A constructivist approach was taken with appropriate ethical approval. Patients and carers, student radiographers and radiographers took part in interviews and focus groups and tweets were harvested from a Twitter journal club discussion between radiographers of the second author's published literature review. Data were transcribed and analysed thematically. FINDINGS Key aspects of communication are fundamental to giving compassionate patient-centred care. These include verbal and non-verbal cues, actively listening and engaging and establishing rapport with the patient. Specific skills associated with these are also identified in these studies. CONCLUSION Keeping the patient as a person at the centre of radiographic practice in the rapidly evolving technical and cultural environment in which it exists requires timely and appropriate behavioural expressions of compassion from radiographers deploying a range of highly specific communication and interpersonal skills. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE When undertaking reflective practice, radiographers could consider key aspects of how they communicate with patients, including: verbal (in particular the language they use with patients and their tone of voice); non-verbal (especially eye contact and smiling and their body language). They could also usefully explore and develop skills in reading their patients' body language as well as their own in order to pick up subtle or hidden cues that might suggest a patient is suffering emotionally or psychologically. Finally, they could think about the sort of targeted questions they could ask of patients when welcoming them into the x-ray or treatment room that would both facilitate the procedure and leave the patient feeling that their radiographer had taken a genuine interest in them and their situation. These reflections could then be used to possibly modify their existing communications with their patients.
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Experimental Evidence of Ciguatoxin Accumulation and Depuration in Carnivorous Lionfish. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13080564. [PMID: 34437435 PMCID: PMC8402466 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13080564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ciguatera poisoning is a food intoxication associated with the consumption of fish or shellfish contaminated, through trophic transfer, with ciguatoxins (CTXs). In this study, we developed an experimental model to assess the trophic transfer of CTXs from herbivorous parrotfish, Chlorurus microrhinos, to carnivorous lionfish, Pterois volitans. During a 6-week period, juvenile lionfish were fed naturally contaminated parrotfish fillets at a daily dose of 0.11 or 0.035 ng CTX3C equiv. g−1, as measured by the radioligand-receptor binding assay (r-RBA) or neuroblastoma cell-based assay (CBA-N2a), respectively. During an additional 6-week depuration period, the remaining fish were fed a CTX-free diet. Using r-RBA, no CTXs were detectable in muscular tissues, whereas CTXs were measured in the livers of two out of nine fish sampled during exposure, and in four out of eight fish sampled during depuration. Timepoint pooled liver samples, as analyzed by CBA-N2a, confirmed the accumulation of CTXs in liver tissues, reaching 0.89 ng CTX3C equiv. g−1 after 41 days of exposure, followed by slow toxin elimination, with 0.37 ng CTX3C equiv. g−1 measured after the 6-week depuration. These preliminary results, which need to be pursued in adult lionfish, strengthen our knowledge on CTX transfer and kinetics along the food web.
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Assessing Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Dopaminergic Neuron Progenitor Transplants Using Non-invasive Imaging Techniques. Mol Imaging Biol 2021; 22:1244-1254. [PMID: 32378000 PMCID: PMC7497430 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-020-01499-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC)-derived dopaminergic neuron progenitor cells (DAPCs) are a potential therapy for Parkinson's disease (PD). However, their intracranial administration raises safety concerns including uncontrolled proliferation, migration and inflammation. Here, we apply a bimodal imaging approach to investigate the fate of DAPC transplants in the rat striatum. PROCEDURES DAPCs co-expressing luciferase and ZsGreen or labelled with micron-sized particles of iron oxide (MPIOs) were transplanted in the striatum of RNU rats (n = 6 per group). DAPCs were tracked in vivo using bioluminescence and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging modalities. RESULTS Transgene silencing in differentiating DAPCs accompanied with signal attenuation due to animal growth rendered the bioluminescence undetectable by week 2 post intrastriatal transplantation. However, MR imaging of MPIO-labelled DAPCs showed that transplanted cells remained at the site of injection for over 120 days. Post-mortem histological analysis of DAPC transplants demonstrated that labelling with either luciferase/ZsGreen or MPIOs did not affect the ability of cells to differentiate into mature dopaminergic neurons. Importantly, labelled cells did not elicit increased glial reactivity compared to non-labelled cells. CONCLUSIONS In summary, our findings support the transplantation of hPSC-derived DAPCs as a safe treatment for PD.
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