Deposition of onco-histone H3.3-G34W leads to DNA repair deficiency and activates cGAS/STING-mediated immune responses

Mutations in histone H3.3-encoding genes causing mutant histone tails are associated with specific cancers such as pediatric glioblastomas (H3.3-G34R/V) and giant cell tumor of the bone (H3.3-G34W). The mechanisms by which these mutations promote malignancy are not completely understood. Here we show that cells expressing H3.3-G34W exhibit DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) repair defects and increased cellular sensitivity to ionizing radiation (IR). Mechanistically, H3.3-G34W can be deposited to damaged chromatin, but in contrast to wild-type H3.3, does not interact with non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) key effectors KU70/80 and XRCC4 leading to NHEJ deficiency. Together with defective cell cycle checkpoints reported previously, this DNA repair deficiency in H3.3-G34W cells led to accumulation of micronuclei and cytosolic DNA following IR, which subsequently led to activation of the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase/stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS/STING) pathway, thereby inducing release of immune-stimulatory cytokines. These findings suggest a potential for radiotherapy for tumors expressing H3.3-G34W, which can be further improved by combination with STING agonists to induce immune-mediated therapeutic efficacy.

Disorder-to-order transition of long fibers contained in evaporating sessile drops

A liquid drop containing a long fiber is a complex system whose configuration is determined by an interplay of elastic stresses in the fiber and capillary forces due to the liquid. We study the morphological evolution of fibers that are much longer than the drop diameter in evaporating sessile drops. After insertion, the fibers are either found in an ordered or disordered state, with increasing disorder for increasing fiber length. Upon evaporation, the order increases, in such a way that the final configuration deposited on the solid surface is either a circle, an ellipse, or 8-shaped. The morphology of the deposit depends on the fiber length and the elastocapillary length, both non-dimensionalized with the characteristic drop size, which we classify in a morphology regime map. The disorder-to-order transition allows depositing ordered fiber structures on solid surfaces even in cases of a strongly disordered state after fiber insertion. Combined with technologies such as inkjet printing, this process could open new avenues to decorate surfaces with filamental structures whose morphology can be controlled by varying the fiber length.

Amplitude Analysis of the B^{0}→K^{*0}μ^{+}μ^{-} Decay

An amplitude analysis of the B^{0}→K^{*0}μ^{+}μ^{-} decay is presented using a dataset corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 4.7  fb^{-1} of pp collision data collected with the LHCb experiment. For the first time, the coefficients associated to short-distance physics effects, sensitive to processes beyond the standard model, are extracted directly from the data through a q^{2}-unbinned amplitude analysis, where q^{2} is the μ^{+}μ^{-} invariant mass squared. Long-distance contributions, which originate from nonfactorizable QCD processes, are systematically investigated, and the most accurate assessment to date of their impact on the physical observables is obtained. The pattern of measured corrections to the short-distance couplings is found to be consistent with previous analyses of b- to s-quark transitions, with the largest discrepancy from the standard model predictions found to be at the level of 1.8 standard deviations. The global significance of the observed differences in the decay is 1.4 standard deviations.

Fraction of χ_{c} Decays in Prompt J/ψ Production Measured in pPb Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=8.16 TeV

The fraction of χ_{c1} and χ_{c2} decays in the prompt J/ψ yield, F_{χ_{c}→J/ψ}=σ_{χ_{c}→J/ψ}/σ_{J/ψ}, is measured by the LHCb detector in pPb collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=8.16  TeV. The study covers the forward (1.5 Collapse

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Observation of Cabibbo-Suppressed Two-Body Hadronic Decays and Precision Mass Measurement of the Ω_{c}^{0} Baryon

The first observation of the singly Cabibbo-suppressed Ω_{c}^{0}→Ω^{-}K^{+} and Ω_{c}^{0}→Ξ^{-}π^{+} decays is reported, using proton-proton collision data at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.4  fb^{-1}, collected with the LHCb detector between 2016 and 2018. The branching fraction ratios are measured to be B(Ω_{c}^{0}→Ω^{-}K^{+})/B(Ω_{c}^{0}→Ω^{-}π^{+})=[6.08±0.51(stat)±0.40(syst)]%,B(Ω_{c}^{0}→Ξ^{-}π^{+})/B(Ω_{c}^{0}→Ω^{-}π^{+})=[15.81±0.87(stat)±0.44(syst)±0.16(ext)]%. In addition, using the Ω_{c}^{0}→Ω^{-}π^{+} decay channel, the Ω_{c}^{0} baryon mass is measured to be M(Ω_{c}^{0})=2695.28±0.07(stat)±0.27(syst)±0.30(ext)  MeV, improving the precision of the previous world average by a factor of 4.

Enhanced Production of Λ_{b}^{0} Baryons in High-Multiplicity pp Collisions at sqrt[s]=13 TeV

The production rate of Λ_{b}^{0} baryons relative to B^{0} mesons in pp collisions at a center-of-mass energy sqrt[s]=13  TeV is measured by the LHCb experiment. The ratio of Λ_{b}^{0} to B^{0} production cross sections shows a significant dependence on both the transverse momentum and the measured charged-particle multiplicity. At low multiplicity, the ratio measured at LHCb is consistent with the value measured in e^{+}e^{-} collisions, and increases by a factor of ∼2 with increasing multiplicity. At relatively low transverse momentum, the ratio of Λ_{b}^{0} to B^{0} cross sections is higher than what is measured in e^{+}e^{-} collisions, but converges with the e^{+}e^{-} ratio as the momentum increases. These results imply that the evolution of heavy b quarks into final-state hadrons is influenced by the density of the hadronic environment produced in the collision. Comparisons with several models and implications for the mechanisms enforcing quark confinement are discussed.

Improved Measurement of CP Violation Parameters in B_{s}^{0}→J/ψK^{+}K^{-} Decays in the Vicinity of the ϕ(1020) Resonance

The decay-time-dependent CP asymmetry in B_{s}^{0}→J/ψ(→μ^{+}μ^{-})K^{+}K^{-} decays is measured using proton-proton collision data, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 6  fb^{-1}, collected with the LHCb detector at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV. Using a sample of approximately 349 000 B_{s}^{0} signal decays with an invariant K^{+}K^{-} mass in the vicinity of the ϕ(1020) resonance, the CP-violating phase ϕ_{s} is measured, along with the difference in decay widths of the light and heavy mass eigenstates of the B_{s}^{0}-B[over ¯]_{s}^{0} system, ΔΓ_{s}, and the difference of the average B_{s}^{0} and B^{0} meson decay widths, Γ_{s}-Γ_{d}. The values obtained are ϕ_{s}=-0.039±0.022±0.006  rad, ΔΓ_{s}=0.0845±0.0044±0.0024  ps^{-1}, and Γ_{s}-Γ_{d}=-0.0056_{-0.0015}^{+0.0013}±0.0014  ps^{-1}, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. These are the most precise single measurements to date and are consistent with expectations based on the Standard Model and with the previous LHCb analyses of this decay. These results are combined with previous independent LHCb measurements. The phase ϕ_{s} is also measured independently for each polarization state of the K^{+}K^{-} system and shows no evidence for polarization dependence.

Measurement of CP Violation in B^{0}→ψ(→ℓ^{+}ℓ^{-})K_{S}^{0}(→π^{+}π^{-}) Decays

A measurement of time-dependent CP violation in the decays of B^{0} and B[over ¯]^{0} mesons to the final states J/ψ(→μ^{+}μ^{-})K_{S}^{0}, ψ(2S)(→μ^{+}μ^{-})K_{S}^{0} and J/ψ(→e^{+}e^{-})K_{S}^{0} with K_{S}^{0}→π^{+}π^{-} is presented. The data correspond to an integrated luminosity of 6  fb^{-1} collected at a center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=13  TeV with the LHCb detector. The CP-violation parameters are measured to be S_{ψK_{S}^{0}}=0.717±0.013(stat)±0.008(syst) and C_{ψK_{S}^{0}}=0.008±0.012(stat)±0.003(syst). This measurement of S_{ψK_{S}^{0}} represents the most precise single measurement of the CKM angle β to date and is more precise than the current world average. In addition, measurements of the CP-violation parameters of the individual channels are reported and a combination with the LHCb Run 1 measurements is performed.

Multi-omic and functional analysis for classification and treatment of sarcomas with FUS-TFCP2 or EWSR1-TFCP2 fusions

Linking clinical multi-omics with mechanistic studies may improve the understanding of rare cancers. We leverage two precision oncology programs to investigate rhabdomyosarcoma with FUS/EWSR1-TFCP2 fusions, an orphan malignancy without effective therapies. All tumors exhibit outlier ALK expression, partly accompanied by intragenic deletions and aberrant splicing resulting in ALK variants that are oncogenic and sensitive to ALK inhibitors. Additionally, recurrent CKDN2A/MTAP co-deletions provide a rationale for PRMT5-targeted therapies. Functional studies show that FUS-TFCP2 blocks myogenic differentiation, induces transcription of ALK and truncated TERT, and inhibits DNA repair. Unlike other fusion-driven sarcomas, TFCP2-rearranged tumors exhibit genomic instability and signs of defective homologous recombination. DNA methylation profiling demonstrates a close relationship with undifferentiated sarcomas. In two patients, sarcoma was preceded by benign lesions carrying FUS-TFCP2, indicating stepwise sarcomagenesis. This study illustrates the potential of linking precision oncology with preclinical research to gain insight into the classification, pathogenesis, and therapeutic vulnerabilities of rare cancers.

Evaluating the risk factors for the development of benign disorders of defaecation: a surgical perspective

PURPOSE

There remains uncertainty as to which risk factors are important for the development of defaecatory problems as a result of heterogeneity of published evidence. Understanding the impact of risk factors may be important in selecting targets for disease prevention or reversal. The aim of this study was to identify and evaluate risk factors for faecal incontinence and chronic constipation.

METHODS

Risk factors for chronic constipation and faecal incontinence were long-listed from scientific literature, then anonymously evaluated (by 50 predominantly colorectal surgical experts from the UK Pelvic Floor Society) using a Delphi technique. Each risk factor was rated as independent, a co-factor, or not a risk factor. Independent risk factors were rated between 1 (not important) and 10 (critically important) with mean (± standard deviation) calculated.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight risk factors for chronic constipation were evaluated. Eighteen were classed as independent and 16 as co-factors. Opioid analgesia (7.87 ± 2.05), eating disorders (7.80 ± 1.72), and history of abuse (7.70 ± 1.89) were scored as most important independent risk factors. Female sex (6.60 ± 2.02) was considered an independent risk factor but increasing age was rated a co-factor. Thirty-three risk factors for faecal incontinence were evaluated. Twenty were classed as independent and eight as co-factors. Third- or fourth-degree tear (8.88 ± 1.57), instrumental delivery (8.47 ± 1.58), and grand multiparity (8.00 ± 1.63) were rated most important. Increasing age (7.41 ± 2.14) and female sex (7.58 ± 2.05) were both considered independent risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Several risk factors for chronic constipation and faecal incontinence were selected by Delphi approach. These factors will feed forward into Bayesian models of disease prediction that combine data and expert knowledge.

Abstract 4544: Genomic, transcriptomic, functional, and mechanistic characterization of rhabdomyosarcoma with FUS-TFCP2 or EWSR1-TFCP2 fusions

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a soft-tissue sarcoma subtype composed of malignant immature precursor cells with myogenic differentiation defined by aberrant expression of the transcription factors MYOD1 and MYOG. Four subtypes are distinguished, characterized by considerable clinical, histologic, and genetic heterogeneity. RMS with fusions of the transcription factor TFCP2 to either FUS or EWSR1 has only recently been observed, but its classification and pathogenesis are unclear. We studied the clinical course, histopathology, and molecular landscape of 12 cases of this new RMS type and determined the functional properties of tumor-specific genetic alterations. Unusually for gene fusion-driven sarcomas, most tumors had highly rearranged genomes, including chromothripsis, and signs of defective homologous recombination DNA repair. All tumors were characterized by extremely high expression of a truncated TERT variant and the receptor tyrosine kinase ALK. The latter was additionally affected by intragenic deletions (33%), which resulted, together with aberrant splicing events, in the expression of shortened ALK variants (58%). Three ALK variants were oncogenic in immortalized cells in vitro and after xenotransplantation in mice and responded variably to different ALK inhibitors. Additional recurrent alterations included CDKN2A/MTAP co-deletions (67%) and mutations in PAPPA2 (25%) encoding an IGFBP5-specific proteinase. DNA methylation analysis of FUS/EWSR1-TFCP2 RMS, along with 19 other soft-tissue sarcoma types, revealed a close relationship with undifferentiated sarcoma but not with other RMS subtypes, suggesting that FUS/EWSR1-TFCP2 RMS is a distinct sarcoma entity possibly arising from a different cell of origin than other RMS types. Transduction of TFCP2 fusions into immortalized human cells conferred anchorage-independent growth and blocked late myogenic differentiation. Genes significantly induced in these cells were also highly expressed in patient tumors, including ALK, TERT, and two known regulators of skeletal muscle cells, IGFBP5 and PTH1R. ACT-seq demonstrated direct binding of FUS-TFCP2 to the ALK and TERT gene loci outside their regular promoters, which correlated with the expression of alternative transcript variants. Finally, FUS-TFCP2 appeared to induce a defect in DNA double-strand repair in immortalized cells, rendering them sensitive to treatment with cisplatin. Together, our study gives insights into the pathogenesis of a new RMS subtype defined by FUS-TFCP2 or EWSR1-TFCP2 fusions and suggests entry points for therapeutic intervention with DNA-damaging agents, ALK inhibitors, and, in the case of additional CDKN2A/MTAP co-deletion, drugs targeting PRMT5.

Citation Format: Julia Schoepf, Sebastian Uhrig, Christoph E. Heilig, Kwang-Seok Lee, Tatjana Walther, Alexander Carazzato, Anna Maria Dobberkau, Dieter Weichenhan, Christoph Plass, Mark Hartmann, Gaurav Diwan, Zunamys Carrero, Claudia R. Ball, Tobias Hohl, Thomas Kindler, Patricia Rudolph-Hähnel, Anna Nilsson, Ingrid Øra, Roland Imle, Ana Banito, Robert Russell, Barbara C. Jones, Daniel B. Lipka, Hanno Glimm, Daniel Hübschmann, Wolfgang Hartmann, Stefan Fröhling, Claudia Scholl. Genomic, transcriptomic, functional, and mechanistic characterization of rhabdomyosarcoma with FUS-TFCP2 or EWSR1-TFCP2 fusions. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 4544.

DNA methylation landscape of tumor-associated macrophages reveals pathways, transcription factors and prognostic value relevant to triple-negative breast cancer patients

The accumulation of myeloid cells, particularly tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), characterizes the tumor microenvironment (TME) of many solid cancers, including breast cancer. Compared to healthy tissue-resident macrophages, TAMs acquire distinct transcriptomes and tumor-promoting functions by largely unknown mechanisms. Here, we hypothesize the involvement of TME signaling and subsequent epigenetic reprogramming of TAMs. Using the 4T1 mouse model of triple-negative breast cancer, we demonstrate that the presence of cancer cells significantly alters the DNA methylation landscape of macrophages and, to a lesser extent, bone marrow-derived monocytes (BMDMs). TAM methylomes, dissected into BMDM-originating and TAM-specific epigenetic programs, implicated transcription factors (TFs) and signaling pathways involved in TAM reprogramming, correlated with cancer-specific gene expression patterns. Utilizing published single-cell gene expression data, we linked microenvironmentally-derived signals to the cancer-specific DNA methylation landscape of TAMs. These integrative analyses highlighted the role of altered cytokine production in the TME (eg, TGF-β, IFN-γ and CSF1) on the induction of specific TFs (eg, FOSL2, STAT1 and RUNX3) responsible for the epigenetic reprogramming of TAMs. DNA methylation deconvolution identified a TAM-specific signature associated with the identified signaling pathways and TFs, corresponding with severe tumor grade and poor prognosis of breast cancer patients. Similarly, immunosuppressive TAM functions were identified, such as induction of the immune inhibitory receptor-ligand PD-L1 by DNA hypomethylation of Cd274. Collectively, these results provide strong evidence that the epigenetic landscapes of macrophages and monocytes are perturbed by the presence of breast cancer, pointing to molecular mechanisms of TAM reprogramming, impacting patient outcomes.

Dynamic DNA methylation reveals novel cis-regulatory elements in mouse hematopoiesis

Differentiation of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells to terminally differentiated immune cells is accompanied by large-scale remodeling of the DNA methylation landscape. Although significant insights into the molecular mechanisms of hematopoietic tissue regeneration were derived from mouse models, profiling of DNA methylation has been hampered by high cost or low resolution using available methods. The recent development of the Infinium Mouse Methylation BeadChip (MMBC) array facilitates methylation profiling of the mouse genome at a single CpG resolution at affordable cost. We extended the RnBeads package to provide a computational framework for the analysis of MMBC data. This framework was applied to a newly generated reference map of mouse hematopoiesis encompassing nine different cell types. Analysis of dynamically regulated CpG sites showed progressive and unidirectional DNA methylation changes from hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells to differentiated hematopoietic cells and allowed the identification of lineage- and cell type-specific DNA methylation programs. Comparison with previously published catalogs of cis-regulatory elements (CREs) revealed 12,856 novel putative CREs that were dynamically regulated by DNA methylation (mdCREs). These mdCREs were predominantly associated with patterns of cell type-specific DNA hypomethylation and could be identified as epigenetic control regions regulating the expression of key hematopoietic genes during differentiation. In summary, we established an analysis pipeline for MMBC data sets and provide a DNA methylation atlas of mouse hematopoiesis. This resource allowed us to identify novel putative CREs involved in hematopoiesis and will serve as a platform to study epigenetic regulation of normal and malignant hematopoiesis.

Pronounced cortisol response to acute psychosocial stress in type 2 diabetes patients with and without complications

It is increasingly recognized that psychological stress is linked with type 2 diabetes mellitus and its late complications. Thus, the aim of the current study was to investigate the psychophysiological response to acute psychosocial stress in patients with type 2 diabetes. In total, 53 type 2 diabetes patients with complications, 16 type 2 diabetes patients without complications, and 47 age and gender matched non-diabetic participants underwent the Trier Social Stress Test. Subjective as well as biological parameters (i.e., blood levels of cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), norepinephrine, methylglyoxal) were assessed repeatedly before and after stress induction. Data were analyzed by means of multilevel regression. Patients with type 2 diabetes showed an exaggerated cortisol response to acute stress as compared to age matched control participants (diabetes*T2 est. = 1.23, p < .001), while stress-induced alterations of ACTH and subjective parameters did not differ. Norepinephrine levels were lower among patients (diabetes est. = -4.36, p = .044) and tended to decrease earlier than in controls. The subjective reaction of type 2 diabetes patients with complications was stronger than that of patients without complications (complication*T2 est. = -1.83, p = .032), while their endocrine response to stress was similar. Stress had no effect on methylglyoxal level, and there were no group differences regarding methylglyoxal response. These results show that the cortisol reactivity of patients with type 2 diabetes to acute psychosocial stress is increased compared to a control group. Thus, alterations of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis - especially regarding its dynamic regulation - are a plausible link between psychological stress and type 2 diabetes and its complications.

The age of the bone marrow microenvironment influences B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia progression via CXCR5-CXCL13

B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) occurs most commonly in children, whereas chronic myeloid leukemia is more frequent in adults. The myeloid bias of hematopoiesis in elderly individuals has been considered causative, but the age of the bone marrow microenvironment (BMM) may be contributory. Using various murine models of B-ALL in young vs old mice, we recapitulated B-ALL preponderance in children vs adults. We showed differential effects of young vs old BM macrophages on B-ALL cell function. Molecular profiling using RNA- and ATAC-sequencing revealed pronounced differences in young vs old BMM-derived macrophages and enrichment for gene sets associated with inflammation. In concordance with the role of C-X-C motif chemokine (CXCL) 13 for disease-associated B-cell chemoattraction, we found CXCL13 to be highly expressed in young macrophages on a translational compared with a transcriptional level. Inhibition of CXCL13 in BM macrophages impaired leukemia cell migration and decreased the proliferation of cocultured B-ALL cells, whereas recombinant CXCL13 increased pAKT and B-ALL cell expansion. Pretreatment of B-ALL-initiating cells with CXCL13 accelerated B-ALL progression. Deficiency of Cxcr5, the receptor for CXCL13, on B-ALL-initiating cells prolonged murine survival, whereas high expression of CXCR5 in pediatric B-ALL may predict central nervous system relapse. CXCL13 staining was increased in bone sections from pediatric compared with adult patients with B-ALL. Taken together, our study shows that the age of the BMM and, in particular, BM macrophages influence the leukemia phenotype. The CXCR5-CXCL13 axis may act as prognostic marker and an attractive novel target for the treatment of B-ALL.

Assessing the perspective of well-being of older patients with multiple morbidities by using the LAVA tool - a person-centered approach

Background

Older patients with multiple morbidities are a particularly vulnerable population that is likely to face complex medical decisions at some time in their lives. A patient-centered medical care fosters the inclusion of the patients’ perspectives, priorities, and complaints into clinical decision making.

Methods

This article presents a short and non-normative assessment tool to capture the priorities and problems of older patients. The so-called LAVA (“Life and Vitality Assessment”) tool was developed for practical use in seniors in the general population and for residents in nursing homes in order to gain more knowledge about the patients themselves as well as to facilitate access to the patients. The LAVA tool conceptualizes well-being from the perspectives of older individuals themselves rather than from the perspectives of outside individuals.

Results

The LAVA tool is graphically presented and the assessment is explained in detail. Exemplarily, the outcomes of the assessments with the LAVA of three multimorbid older patients are presented and discussed. In each case, the assessment pointed out resources as well as at least one problem area, rated as very important by the patients themselves.

Conclusions

The LAVA tool is a short, non-normative, and useful approach that encapsulates the perspectives of well-being of multimorbid patients and gives insights into their resources and problem areas.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-021-02342-3.

[Diagnosis and treatment of rare testicular tumors using the example of malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis testis and Sertoli cell tumors]

BACKGROUND

Rare tumors of the testis not originating from germinal epithelium are a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.

OBJECTIVES

To present current approaches in rare tumors of the testis using the examples of Sertoli cell tumor (SCT) and malignant mesothelioma of the tunica vaginal testis (MMTVT).

METHODS

A literature search in PubMed and the abstract databases of ASCO and ESMO was performed. Articles and book chapters were selected based on relevance to everyday treatment.

RESULTS

The low incidence of testicular tumors not originating from the germinal epithelium makes a standardized approach difficult. Diagnosis and treatment depend on the underlying diagnosis. While most SCT are benign, malignant subtypes require extensive resection including metastatic surgery if complete resection is possible. In MMTVT, multimodality treatment concepts are followed, according to the malignant mesotheliomas of the pleura.

CONCLUSION

Systematic registration of rare testicular tumors and comprehensive molecular pathological analysis are urgently needed to improve the understanding of tumor biology and to develop new therapeutic strategies.

POS0077 PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND SPORT PARTICIPATION: A COMPARISON BETWEEN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH JUVENILE IDIOPATHIC ARTHRITIS (JIA) AND THE GERMAN GENERAL POPULATION

Background:

Physical activity (PA), including sport participation is essential for children throughout their growth and maturation. It improves physiological and psychosocial health and limits the risk of developing metabolic disorders. The beneficial effect of PA specifically in patients with JIA has also been linked to its potential regulatory effect on the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory responses [1].

Objectives:

The study aimed i) to quantify the frequency of PA and participation in (organised) sports compared to the general population, ii) to determine self-reported reasons for not practicing sports, and iii) to identify clinical parameters associated with non-participation in sports.

Methods:

Data from children and adolescents with JIA recorded in the National Paediatric Rheumatological Database (NPRD) in the year 2019 were considered for the analyses. In accordance with the methodology used in the general population survey (KIGGS) [2], achievement of the WHO recommendations on PA for at least 60 minutes per day as well as sport-related data were determined on the basis of self-reported outcomes in individuals aged 3 to 17 years. In order to compare PA-related data with the general population, a sex- and age-matched sample was drawn. A logistic regression model was used to explore the association between non-participation in sports and patients’ clinical outcomes.

Results:

Data of 5.333 matched-pairs (mean age 11.0 ± 4.3 years, female 67%, patients’ disease duration 4.8 ± 3.8 years, persistent oligoarthritis 43%) were available for evaluation. Almost 38% of patients aged 3 to 17 years met the recommended PA amount (76% aged 3 to 6; 48% aged 7 to 10; 30% aged 11 to 13; 15% aged 14 to 17). In matched controls, 21% fulfilled the WHO recommendations on PA (41% aged 3 to 6; 23% aged 7 to 10; 17% aged 11 to 13; 10% aged 14 to 17). Largest differences across JIA categories were found in persistent oligoarthritis (43%) and enthesitis-related arthritis (22%). 64% of patients and 74% of controls reported participating in sports, of which 72% of patients and 58% of controls stating to participate in a formally organised way. In both groups, boys indicated organised sports participation more often than girls. Among those who declared not participating in sports, “no interest” (patients 27% vs. controls 29%), “no suitable offer nearby” (patients 25% vs. controls 31%), “health restrictions” (patients 22% vs. controls 4%) and “no time” (patients 15% vs. controls 23%) were the most frequently mentioned reasons (multiple responses possible). CJADAS-10 (OR = 1.02, 95% CI = 1.00-1.04), CHAQ (OR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.50-2.14), DMARD use (OR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.15-1.53) and disease duration (OR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.95-0.99) were significantly associated with non-participation in sports.

Conclusion:

Based on self-reported data, children and adolescents with JIA meet the WHO recommendation on PA more often than general population controls. Patients are less frequently engaged in sports, but more often involved in formally organised forms. In order to bring joyful, interesting PA opportunities in line with WHO recommendations, further components (e.g. intensity), facilitators and barriers to PA and sports need to be addressed in the future while controlling for JADAS and CHAQ.

References:

[1]Rochette E et al. JIA and physical activity: possible inflammatory and immune modulation and tracks for interventions in young populations. Autoimmun Rev 2015;14:726–734.

[2]Finger JD et al. Körperliche Aktivität von Kindern und Jugendlichen in Deutschland - Querschnittergebnisse aus KiGGS Welle 2 und Trends. Journal of Health Monitoring 2018;3:24-31.

Acknowledgements:

The National Paediatric Rheumatological Database has been funded by AbbVie, Chugai, Novartis and GSK.

Disclosure of Interests:

Florian Milatz: None declared, Martina Niewerth: None declared, Jens Klotsche: None declared, Jana Hörstermann: None declared, Sandra Hansmann: None declared, Tilmann Kallinich: None declared, Christoph Rietschel: None declared, Ralf Trauzeddel: None declared, Joachim Peitz: None declared, Matthias Hartmann: None declared, Hermann Girschick: None declared, Kirsten Minden Speakers bureau: Pfizer, AbbVie, Consultant of: Novartis.

International Consensus Definition of DNA Methylation Subgroups in Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia

PURPOSE

Known clinical and genetic markers have limitations in predicting disease course and outcome in juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML). DNA methylation patterns in JMML have correlated with outcome across multiple studies, suggesting it as a biomarker to improve patient stratification. However, standardized approaches to classify JMML on the basis of DNA methylation patterns are lacking. We, therefore, sought to define an international consensus for DNA methylation subgroups in JMML and develop classification methods for clinical implementation.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Published DNA methylation data from 255 patients with JMML were used to develop and internally validate a classifier model. Accuracy across platforms (EPIC-arrays and MethylSeq) was tested using a technical validation cohort (32 patients). The suitability of both methods for single-patient classification was demonstrated using an independent cohort (47 patients).

RESULTS

Analysis of pooled, published data established three DNA methylation subgroups as a de facto standard. Unfavorable prognostic parameters (PTPN11 mutation, elevated fetal hemoglobin, and older age) were significantly enriched in the high methylation (HM) subgroup. A classifier was then developed that predicted subgroups with 98% accuracy across different technological platforms. Applying the classifier to an independent validation cohort confirmed an association of HM with secondary mutations, high relapse incidence, and inferior overall survival (OS), while the low methylation subgroup was associated with a favorable disease course. Multivariable analysis established DNA methylation subgroups as the only significant factor predicting OS.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides an international consensus definition for DNA methylation subgroups in JMML. We developed and validated methods which will facilitate the design of risk-stratified clinical trials in JMML.

Diabetic patients treated with novel thin composite-wire strut zotarolimus-eluting stents versus ultrathin strut sirolimus-eluting stents in the BIONYX trial: 2-year results of a prespecified analysis

Background/Introduction

The novel thin composite-wire strut zotarolimus-eluting stent (ZES) is a drug-eluting stent that is frequently used for treating patients with obstructive coronary artery disease, but so far no clinical outcome data have been published in patients with diabetes. In all-comer patients, the BIONYX trial (NCT02508714) has established non-inferiority of the ZES versus the ultrathin strut biodegradable-polymer sirolimus-eluting stent (SES) regarding the primary composite endpoint of target vessel failure at 1 year follow-up.

Purpose

To assess in patients with diabetes, the 2-year safety and efficacy of the current generation thin composite-wire strut ZES, compared to the ultrathin strut SES.

Methods

In the international, multicentre BIONYX trial, randomisation was stratified for sex and the presence of diabetes mellitus. We performed a prespecified subgroup analysis of patients with diabetes. The main endpoint target vessel failure was a composite of safety and efficacy, consisting of cardiac death, target vessel-related myocardial infarction or clinically indicated target vessel revascularisation. Secondary endpoints, such as target lesion revascularisation and stent thrombosis were also assessed.

Results

A total of 510/2488 (20.5%) BIONYX trial participants had diabetes, and were therefore included in this analysis. Patients were on average 66.4±10.3 years old, and 28.6% were female. Most participants presented with acute coronary syndromes (65.1%), and 182/510 (35.7%) patients were insulin dependent. Two-year follow up was available in 500 of 510 (98.0%) patients. Target vessel failure occurred in 31/260 (12.2%) patients assigned to ZES versus 26/250 (10.7%) patients assigned to SES (HR 1.14, 95%-CI 0.68–1.92; P-logrank=0.63). Kaplan Meier curves of target vessel failure are displayed in Figure 1. There were no significant between-stent differences in the individual components of this endpoint. Target lesion revascularisation occurred in 15/260 (6.0%) patients treated with ZES versus 9/250 (3.7%) patients treated with SES (HR 1.61, 95%-CI 0.71–3.68; P-logrank=0.25). Definite stent thrombosis was an infrequent event and did not differ significantly between stent-arms (0.4% vs. 1.2%; HR 0.32, 95%-CI 0.03–3.06; P-logrank=0.30).

Conclusion

In patients with diabetes, the novel thin composite-wire strut durable polymer ZES was similarly safe and efficacious as compared to the ultrathin cobalt-chromium strut biodegradable-polymer SES at 2-year follow-up.

Figure1. Target vessel failure at 2 years

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): The BIONYX trial was equally funded by Biotronik and Medtronic.

Comparison of two iterations of the zotarolimus-eluting stents: an analysis of all-comer patients from two consecutive randomised clinical trials

Background

The newest iteration of the durable polymer zotarolimus-eluting stents (ZES) is designed with thin swaged shape composite-wire struts (inner platinum–iridium core and outer cobalt–chromium layer). It is of interest to compare the clinical performance of this novel device with its predecessor in all-comers.

Purpose

The purpose of the present study is to assess 2-year clinical outcome in all-comer patients who were treated with the novel ZES versus the previous iteration ZES.

Methods

We did a post-hoc analysis of clinical outcome data of 2374 patients who were treated with the novel or the previous generation ZES (only nominal stent diameters that were available for both devices) in two consecutive large-scale randomised all-comer trials. A total of 1201 trial participants were treated with the novel ZES, and 1173 were treated with the previous generation ZES. The main outcome parameter target vessel failure is a composite of safety (cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction) and efficacy (target vessel revascularisation). Clinical outcome data were analysed with Kaplan-Meier methods and hazard ratios were computed with Cox regression analysis. An additional analysis was done in a subgroup of patients who presented with chronic coronary syndromes.

Results

The mean age of the study population was 63.9±10.9 years, 611 (25.7%) were female and 1669 (70.3%) presented with acute coronary syndromes. Two-year follow-up was available in 2346 (98.8%) participants. After 2 years, there was no significant difference between stent-groups in the rates of target vessel failure (7.2% vs. 8.3%, HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.64–1.14, p-logrank = 0.28; Figure 1) or its individual components. Peri-procedural myocardial infarction occurred less often in patients treated with the novel ZES (0.7% vs. 2.1%, p-logrank &lt;0.01), and definite-or-probable stent thrombosis rates were low in both ZES groups (0.3% vs. 0.8%, p-logrank = 0.15). In a subgroup of 705 patients with chronic coronary syndromes, the rate of target vessel myocardial infarction tended to be lower with novel ZES (1.8% vs. 4.2%, p-logrank = 0.05).

Conclusions

The novel ZES showed similar 2-year clinical outcomes as compared to its predecessor. Furthermore, there was a positive safety signal regarding the incidence of target vessel myocardial infarction and a particularly low stent thrombosis rates with the novel ZES.

Figure 1. Target vessel failure at 2 years

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Other. Main funding source(s): Thoraxcentrum Twente has received institutional research grants provided by Abbott Vascular, Biotronik, Boston Scientific and Medtronic. The present analysis received no funding.

Globally altered epigenetic landscape and delayed osteogenic differentiation in H3.3-G34W-mutant giant cell tumor of bone

The neoplastic stromal cells of giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) carry a mutation in H3F3A, leading to a mutant histone variant, H3.3-G34W, as a sole recurrent genetic alteration. We show that in patient-derived stromal cells H3.3-G34W is incorporated into the chromatin and associates with massive epigenetic alterations on the DNA methylation, chromatin accessibility and histone modification level, that can be partially recapitulated in an orthogonal cell line system by the introduction of H3.3-G34W. These epigenetic alterations affect mainly heterochromatic and bivalent regions and provide possible explanations for the genomic instability, as well as the osteolytic phenotype of GCTB. The mutation occurs in differentiating mesenchymal stem cells and associates with an impaired osteogenic differentiation. We propose that the observed epigenetic alterations reflect distinct differentiation stages of H3.3 WT and H3.3 MUT stromal cells and add to H3.3-G34W-associated changes.

The histone variant mutation H3.3-G34W occurs in the majority of giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB). By profiling patient-derived GCTB tumor cells, the authors show that this mutation associates with epigenetic alterations in heterochromatic and bivalent regions that contribute to an impaired osteogenic differentiation and the osteolytic phenotype of GCTB.

Two new species in a new genus and a critical revision of Brachybasidiaceae (Exobasidiales, Basidiomycota) in honor of Franz Oberwinkler

The Brachybasidiaceae are a family of 22 known species of plant-parasitic microfungi belonging to Exobasidiales, Basidiomycota. Within this family, species of the largest genus Kordyana develop balls of basidia on top of stomatal openings. Basidial cells originate from fungal stroma filling substomatal chambers. Species of Kordyana typically infect species of Commelinaceae. During fieldwork in the neotropics, fungi morphologically similar to Kordyana spp. were found on Goeppertia spp. (syn. Calathea spp., Marantaceae), namely on G. panamensis in Panama and on G. propinqua in Bolivia. These specimens are proposed as representatives of a genus new to science, Marantokordyana, based on the distinct host family and molecular sequence data of ITS and LSU rDNA regions. The specimens on the two host species represent two species new to science, M. oberwinkleriana on G. panamensis and M. boliviana on G. propinqua. They differ by the size and shape of their basidia, molecular sequence data of ITS and LSU rDNA regions, and host plant species. In the past, the understanding of Brachybasidiaceae at order and family level was significantly improved by investigation realized by Franz Oberwinkler and his collaborators at the University of Tübingen, Germany. On species level, however, our knowledge is still very poor due to incomplete species descriptions of several existing names in literature, scarceness of specimens, as well as sequence data lacking for many taxa and for further barcode regions. Especially species of Kordyana and species of Dicellomyces are in need of revision.

Can obligate apomixis and more stable reproductive assurance explain the distributional successes of asexual triploids in Hieracium alpinum (Asteraceae)?

Although reproductive assurance has been suggested to be one of the most important factors shaping the differential distributional patterns between sexuals and asexuals (geographic parthenogenesis), it has only rarely been studied in natural populations of vascular plants with autonomous apomixis. Moreover, there are almost no data concerning the putative relationship between the level of apomictic versus sexual plant reproduction on one hand, and reproductive assurance on the other. We assessed the level of sexual versus apomictic reproduction in diploid and triploid plants of Hieracium alpinum across its distributional range using flow cytometric analyses of seeds, and compared the level of potential and realized seed set, i.e. reproductive assurance, between the two cytotypes under field and greenhouse conditions. Flow cytometric screening of embryos and endosperms of more than 4,100 seeds showed that diploids produced solely diploid progeny sexually, while triploids produced triploid progeny by obligate apomixis. Potential fruit set was much the same in diploids and triploids from the field and the greenhouse experiment. While in the pollination-limited environment in the greenhouse apomictic triploids had considerably higher realized fruit set than sexual diploids, there was no significant difference between cytotypes under natural conditions. In addition, sexuals varied to a significantly larger extent in realized fruit set than asexuals under both natural and greenhouse conditions. Our results indicate that triploid plants reproduce by obligate apomixis, assuring more stable and predictable fruit reproduction when compared to sexual diploids. This advantage could provide apomictic triploids with a superior colonisation ability, mirrored in a strong geographic parthenogenesis pattern observed in this species.

[Positron emission tomography in germ cell tumors in men : Possibilities and limitations]

BACKGROUND

Conventional radiographic imaging may fail to safely distinguish clinical stage I from stage IIA germ cell cancer, to localize isolated tumor marker relapses, and to equivocally identify the viability of postchemotherapy residual masses.

OBJECTIVES

To provide an overview of the diagnostic value and limitations of functional imaging by positron emission tomography with 2‑deoxy-2-[fluorine-18]fluoro-D-glucose with computed tomography (¹⁸F-FDG-PET-CT) in male germ cell cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A narrative review based on a literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE for original articles published from 1990-2018 and conference proceedings of ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) and EAU (European Association of Urology) annual meetings 2014-2017 is presented.

RESULTS

¹⁸F-FDG-PET-CT does not improve diagnostic accuracy compared to conventional CT imaging clinical stage (CS) I disease. Particularly PET-negativity of postchemotherapy residual masses of seminomas >3 cm in size guide decision-making against further additional treatment. Even PET-positive residues must not result in relapse. For nonseminoma, the value of PET imaging is reduced by potential mature teratoma components, which are commonly PET negative.

CONCLUSIONS

Current guidelines recommend ¹⁸F-FDG-PET-CT 6-8 weeks postchemotherapy for viability assessment of seminoma residues >3 cm in size. Exceptional circumstances, in which ¹⁸F-FDG-PET-CT may be helpful, include: (1) detection of active disease in CS IS, (2) viability assessment of residual masses >1 cm where complete secondary resection is impossible, (3) staging at marker relapse with unconspicuous conventional CT scan, (4) early response assessment during chemotherapy.

Reactivation of endogenous retroviral elements via treatment with DNMT- and HDAC-inhibitors

Inhibitors of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTis) or histone deacetylases (HDACis) are epigenetic drugs which are investigated since decades. Several have been approved and are applied in the treatment of hematopoietic and lymphatic malignancies, although their mode of action has not been fully understood. Two recent findings improved mechanistic insights: i) activation of human endogenous retroviral elements (HERVs) with concomitant synthesis of double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs), and ii) massive activation of promoters from long terminal repeats (LTRs) which originated from past HERV invasions. These dsRNAs activate an antiviral response pathway followed by apoptosis. LTR promoter activation leads to synthesis of non-annotated transcripts potentially encoding novel or cryptic proteins. Here, we discuss the current knowledge of the molecular effects exerted by epigenetic drugs with a focus on DNMTis and HDACis. We highlight the role in LTR activation and provide novel data from both in vitro and in vivo epigenetic drug treatment.

Electronic Signature for Medical Documents – Integration and Evaluation of a Public Key Infrastructure in Hospitals

Objectives: Our objectives were to determine the user-oriented and legal requirements for a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) for electronic signatures for medical documents, and to translate these requirements into a general model for a signature system. A prototype of this model was then implemented and evaluated in clinical routine use.

Methods: Analyses of documents, processes, interviews, observations, and of the available literature supplied the foundations for the development of the signature system model. Eight participants of the Department of Dermatology of the Heidelberg University Medical Center evaluated the implemented prototype from December 2000 to January 2001, during the course of an intervention study. By means of questionnaires, interviews, observations and database analyses, the usefulness and user acceptance of the electronic signature and its integration into electronic discharge letters were established.

Results: Since the major part of medical documents generated in a hospital are signature-relevant, they will require electronic signatures in the future. A PKI must meet the multitude of responsibilities and security needs required in a hospital. Also, the signature functionality must be integrated directly into the workflow surrounding document creation. A developed signature model, fulfilling user-oriented and legal requirements, was implemented using hard and software components that conform to the German Signature Law. It was integrated into the existing hospital information system of the Heidelberg University Medical Center. At the end of the intervention study, the average acceptance scores achieved were x = 3,90; sD = 0,42 on a scale of 1 (very negative attitude) to 5 (very positive attitude) for the electronic signature procedure. Acceptance of the integration into computer-supported discharge letter writing reached x = 3,91; sD = 0,47. On average, the discharge letters were completed 7.18 days earlier.

Conclusion: The electronic signature is indispensable for the further development of electronic patient records. Application-independent hard and software components, in accordance with the signature law, must be integrated into electronic patient records, and provided to certification services using standardized interfaces. Signature-oriented workflow and document management components are essential for user acceptance in routine clinical use.

Computation of the asymptotic states of modulated open quantum systems with a numerically exact realization of the quantum trajectory method

Quantum systems out of equilibrium are presently a subject of active research, both in theoretical and experimental domains. In this work, we consider time-periodically modulated quantum systems that are in contact with a stationary environment. Within the framework of a quantum master equation, the asymptotic states of such systems are described by time-periodic density operators. Resolution of these operators constitutes a nontrivial computational task. Approaches based on spectral and iterative methods are restricted to systems with the dimension of the hosting Hilbert space dimH=N≲300, while the direct long-time numerical integration of the master equation becomes increasingly problematic for N≳400, especially when the coupling to the environment is weak. To go beyond this limit, we use the quantum trajectory method, which unravels the master equation for the density operator into a set of stochastic processes for wave functions. The asymptotic density matrix is calculated by performing a statistical sampling over the ensemble of quantum trajectories, preceded by a long transient propagation. We follow the ideology of event-driven programming and construct a new algorithmic realization of the method. The algorithm is computationally efficient, allowing for long "leaps" forward in time. It is also numerically exact, in the sense that, being given the list of uniformly distributed (on the unit interval) random numbers, {η_{1},η_{2},...,η_{n}}, one could propagate a quantum trajectory (with η_{i}'s as norm thresholds) in a numerically exact way. By using a scalable N-particle quantum model, we demonstrate that the algorithm allows us to resolve the asymptotic density operator of the model system with N=2000 states on a regular-size computer cluster, thus reaching the scale on which numerical studies of modulated Hamiltonian systems are currently performed.

High ligation of the saphenofemoral junction is necessary!

Neovascularisation can compromise the success of high ligation and resection of the greater saphenous vein. Studies using duplexultrasound to classify recurrent groin veins have described rates of neovascularisation as high as 60% and raised the question whether high ligation is actually able to prevent groin recurrences. In the present study, recurrent groin veins were excised and examined histologically in order to prove whether neovascularisation is the main cause for sapheno-femoral recurrences. Patients, methods: 419 patients accounting for 458 legs with clinically symptomatic groin recurrences were included in a country-wide multicenter study. The recurrent groin veins were excised in a standardized fashion and subsequently divided into the different types of recurrence based on histopathological criteria. Results: 427 specimen (93%) were available for histopathological examination. In 69 cases (16.2%) a neovascularisation was found to be the cause of recurrence. 311 specimen (72.8%) contained a long residual stump of the greater saphenous vein, out of which 32 (7.5%) showed additional neovascularisation at the site of the ligation. In 29 cases (6.8%) a venous side branch was found to be the recurrent groin vein. 11 specimen (2.6%) did not contain any evidence of venous material and in another 7 cases (1.6%) it was not possible to clearly identify the cause of recurrence during the histo pathological workup. Conclusion: The high rates of neovascularisation described in several duplex ultrasound studies could not be confirmed in our investigation. Recurrences seem to be mainly caused by a technically incorrect initial operation which leaves a long residual stump of the saphenous vein in place. Following a technically correct high ligation, clinically relevant recurrences appear to be rare. This finding underlines the necessity of a high ligation of the saphenous vein according to current guidelines.

Der lang belassene Saphenastumpf

Ziel: Nach endovenöser Hitzeablation der V. saphena magna verbleibt im Bereich der Krosse nahezu regelhaft bis zu 5 cm langer Venenstumpf unverschlossen. Aufgrund fehlender Langzeiterfahrungen ist unklar, ob sich aus dem zurückgelassenen Stumpf im Spätverlauf ein Leistenrezidiv entwickelt. Um Anhaltspunkte für den potenziellen Zeitpunkt der Rezidiventwicklung zu gewinnen, sollte bei Pat. mit histologisch gesichertem Saphenastumpfrezidiv geklärt werden, wie lange es dauerte, bis nach dem Ersteingriff Rezidiv klinisch apperent wird. Methoden: Im Rahmen einer an sieben Zentren durchgeführten Multizenterstudie wurden operativ exstirpierte Leistenrezidive histologisch klassifiziert. Die Pat. mit eindeutigem Saphenastumpfrezidiv wurden anhand eines standardisierten Fragebogens nach den ersten Rezidivzeichen befragt. Anhand der Angaben wurde das beschwerdefreie Intervall ermittelt, das Zeitraum zwischen dem Ersteingriff und dem ersten Auftreten von Rezidivzeichen kennzeichnet. Ergebnisse: Bei 251 Pat. wurde an 278 Extremitäten ein lang belassener Saphenastumpf als Ursache des Leistenrezidivs ermittelt. den meisten Pat. bestand nach dem Ersteingriff ein beschwerdefreies Intervall, das im Durchschnitt 7,4 ± 5,70 Jahre betrug. Rezidivvarizen kündigten nach durchschnittlich 6,3 ± 5,68 Jahre und Stauungsbeschwerden nach durchschnittlich 8,5 ± 5,71 Jahre das Rezidiv an. Schlussfolgerungen: Überträgt man die Erfahrungen aus operativen Therapie auf die unverschlossenen Krossestümpfe nach endovenöser Therapie, so ist frühestens nach 7–8 Jahren mit den klinischen Zeichen eines Leistenrezidivs zu rechnen. Die gegenwärtig vorhandenen Nachbeobachtungszeiten reichen nicht aus, um den Langzeitverlauf nach endovenöser Therapie beurteilen zu können.

Saphenofemoraler Neoreflux nach Lasertherapie, Crossektomie/ Stripping oder Crossektomie/ Lasertherapie

Einleitung: In der vorliegenden Arbeit gilt es, mittelfristige Refluxbefunde nach 2 und 6 Monaten sowie die klinischen und sonografischen Befunde im Bereich der Magnacrosse zu beschreiben, die für eine langfristige Entwicklung von Bedeutung sein könnten.

Material und Methode: Die offene multizentrisch prospektiv randomisierte kontrollierte 3-armige Vergleichsstudie zwischen der endoluminalen Lasertherapie und der invaginierend durchgeführten modifizierten offen operativen Therapie der Stammvarikosis der Vena saphena magna (VSM) hat den primären Endpunkt der Beobachtung der mittelund langfristigen Rezidiventwicklung mit einem Ausgangspunkt im Inguinalbereich. (Laserprozedur mit 980 nm Laser (Biolitec), Continous-Mode-Verfahren mit 30 Watt). Um die Bedeutung der Crossektomie in Bezug zur Entstehung eines Crosserezidivs herauszuarbeiten wurde eine dritte Gruppe gebildet, in der die Lasertherapie des Stammvenenabschnitts mit einer Crossektomie der Vena saphena magna kombiniert wurde.

Ergebnisse: 449 Patienten wurden perioperativ und nach 2 Monaten untersucht. 388 Patienten konnten nach 6 Monaten nachuntersucht werden. Nach 2 und 6 Monaten zeigten sich signifikant mehr inguinale Refluxe und Seitenäste in den Lasergruppen.

Ausblick: Die Befunde werden in einer derzeit laufenden Nachuntersuchung überprüft und auf ihre klinische Relevanz für das Langzeitergebnis getestet.

RAS-pathway mutation patterns define epigenetic subclasses in juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia

Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is an aggressive myeloproliferative disorder of early childhood characterized by mutations activating RAS signaling. Established clinical and genetic markers fail to fully recapitulate the clinical and biological heterogeneity of this disease. Here we report DNA methylome analysis and mutation profiling of 167 JMML samples. We identify three JMML subgroups with unique molecular and clinical characteristics. The high methylation group (HM) is characterized by somatic PTPN11 mutations and poor clinical outcome. The low methylation group is enriched for somatic NRAS and CBL mutations, as well as for Noonan patients, and has a good prognosis. The intermediate methylation group (IM) shows enrichment for monosomy 7 and somatic KRAS mutations. Hypermethylation is associated with repressed chromatin, genes regulated by RAS signaling, frequent co-occurrence of RAS pathway mutations and upregulation of DNMT1 and DNMT3B, suggesting a link between activation of the DNA methylation machinery and mutational patterns in JMML.

Increase in the incidence of severe hypoglycaemia in people with Type 2 diabetes in spite of new drugs: analysis based on health insurance data from Germany

AIM

To evaluate the use of new anti-hyperglycaemic agents that offer effective glycaemic control while reducing risk of hypoglycaemia, by analysing the incidence rates of severe hypoglycaemia in 2006 vs 2011 in relation to the medication.

METHODS

This cross-sectional, population-based study used German health insurance data. All adults diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (extrapolated to the German population: 6.35 million in 2006 and 7.52 million in 2011) were screened for severe hypoglycaemia. Anti-hyperglycaemic agents were identified by their Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical code, and defined daily doses of each medication were calculated.

RESULTS

The severe hypoglycaemic event rate was 460 per 100,000 people/year in 2006 and 490 per 100,000 people/year in 2011. In 2006 and 2011, 10.9% and 7.3%, respectively, of all people with severe hypoglycaemia were on sulfonylureas, while 12.7% and 9.3%, respectively, were on a combination therapy of metformin and sulfonylureas. Among those with severe hypoglycaemia, there were no prescriptions of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in 2006, but in 2011, 1.55% and 0.17%, of those with severe hypoglycaemia were receiving the respective treatments. In 2006 vs 2011, human insulin was prescribed for 11.3% vs 10.3% of people with severe hypoglycaemia, while insulin analogues were prescribed for 5.4% vs 8.1%, and mixed human insulins for 19.7% vs 14.0% of patients with severe hypoglycaemia. People receiving insulin analogue therapy had a higher risk of severe hypoglycaemia than those receiving metformin, after adjusting for age, gender, nephropathy diagnosis and year of survey (odds ratio 14.6; CI 13.3-15.9).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of severe hypoglycaemic events in Germany increased between 2006 and 2011, despite increased use of newer anti-hyperglycaemic agents and decreased use of insulins.

Chromatin-associated noncoding RNAs in development and inheritance

Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) have emerged as crucial players in chromatin regulation. Their diversity allows them to partake in the regulation of numerous cellular processes across species. During development, long and short ncRNAs act in conjunction with each other where long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) are best understood in establishing appropriate gene expression patterns, while short ncRNAs (sRNAs) are known to establish constitutive heterochromatin and suppress mobile elements. Additionally, increasing evidence demonstrates roles of sRNAs in several typically lncRNA-mediated processes such as dosage compensation, indicating a complex regulatory network of noncoding RNAs. Together, various ncRNAs establish many mitotically heritable epigenetic marks during development. Additionally, they participate in mechanisms that regulate maintenance of these epigenetic marks during the lifespan of the organism. Interestingly, some epigenetic traits are transmitted to the next generation(s) via paramutations or transgenerational inheritance mediated by sRNAs. In this review, we give an overview of the various functions and regulations of ncRNAs and the mechanisms they employ in the establishment and maintenance of epigenetic marks and multi-generational transmission of epigenetic traits. WIREs RNA 2017, 8:e1435. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1435 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.

Statistically robust methylation calling for whole-transcriptome bisulfite sequencing reveals distinct methylation patterns for mouse RNAs

Cytosine-5 RNA methylation plays an important role in several biologically and pathologically relevant processes. However, owing to methodological limitations, the transcriptome-wide distribution of this mark has remained largely unknown. We previously established RNA bisulfite sequencing as a method for the analysis of RNA cytosine-5 methylation patterns at single-base resolution. More recently, next-generation sequencing has provided opportunities to establish transcriptome-wide maps of this modification. Here, we present a computational approach that integrates tailored filtering and data-driven statistical modeling to eliminate many of the artifacts that are known to be associated with bisulfite sequencing. By using RNAs from mouse embryonic stem cells, we performed a comprehensive methylation analysis of mouse tRNAs, rRNAs, and mRNAs. Our approach identified all known methylation marks in tRNA and two previously unknown but evolutionary conserved marks in 28S rRNA. In addition, mRNAs were found to be very sparsely methylated or not methylated at all. Finally, the tRNA-specific activity of the DNMT2 methyltransferase could be resolved at single-base resolution, which provided important further validation. Our approach can be used to profile cytosine-5 RNA methylation patterns in many experimental contexts and will be important for understanding the function of cytosine-5 RNA methylation in RNA biology and in human disease.

Reduced electrode arrays for the automated detection of rhythmic and periodic patterns in the intensive care unit: Frequently tried, frequently failed?

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of systematic electrode reduction from a common 10-20 EEG system on pattern detection sensitivity (SEN).

METHODS

Two reviewers rated 17130 one-minute segments of 83 prospectively recorded cEEGs according to the ACNS standardized critical care EEG terminology (CCET), including burst suppression patterns (BS) and unequivocal electrographic seizures. Consensus annotations between reviewers were used as a gold standard to determine pattern detection SEN and specificity (SPE) of a computational algorithm (baseline, 19 electrodes). Electrodes were than reduced one by one in four different variations. SENs and SPEs were calculated to determine the most beneficial assembly with respect to the number and location of electrodes.

RESULTS

High automated baseline SENs (84.99-93.39%) and SPEs (90.05-95.6%) were achieved for all patterns. Best overall results in detecting BS and CCET patterns were found using the "hairline+vertex" montage. While the "forehead+behind ear" montage showed an advantage in detecting ictal patterns, reaching a 15% drop of SEN with 10 electrodes, all montages could detect BS sufficiently if at least nine electrodes were available.

CONCLUSION

For the first time an automated approach was used to systematically evaluate the effect of electrode reduction on pattern detection SEN in cEEG.

SIGNIFICANCE

Prediction of the expected detection SEN of specific EEG patterns with reduced EEG montages in ICU patients.