Hybrid Hydrogel-Magnet Actuated Capsule for Automatic Gut Microbiome Sampling

OBJECTIVE

Non-invasive, pill-sized capsules can provide intestinal fluid sampling to easily retrieve site-specific gut microbiome samples for studies in nutrition and chronic diseases. However, capsules with both automatic sampling and active locomotion are uncommon due to limited onboard space. This paper presents a novel hybrid hydrogel-magnet actuated capsule featuring: i) pH-responsive hydrogels that will automatically trigger fluid sampling at an environmental pH of > 6 and ii) active locomotion by an external rotating magnetic field.

METHOD

Two capsule designs were fabricated (Design A: 31 μL sampling volume with dimensions 8 mm × 19 mm, Design B: 41 μL sampling volume with dimensions 8 mm × 21 mm). They were immersed in simulated gastric (pH = 1.2) and simulated intestinal fluid (pH = 6.8) to test for automatic intestinal fluid sampling. An external rotating magnetic field was applied to test for active locomotion. Finally, seal tests were performed to demonstrate sample contamination mitigation.

RESULTS

Preliminary experiments showed that sampling occurred quickly and automatically in simulated intestinal fluid at 6 - 15 hours, active locomotion via rotation, rolling, and tumbling were possible at magnetic field magnitudes < 10 mT, oil piston seals were better at mitigating sample contamination than water piston seals, and minimum o-ring seal pressures limits of 1.95 and 1.69 kPa for Design A and B respectively were sufficient against intra-abdominal pressures.

SIGNIFICANCE

This work presents the ability to impart capsule multi-functionality in a compact manner without onboard electronics or external triggering for sampling.

Achievement of Target Gain Larger than Unity in an Inertial Fusion Experiment

On December 5, 2022, an indirect drive fusion implosion on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) achieved a target gain G_{target} of 1.5. This is the first laboratory demonstration of exceeding "scientific breakeven" (or G_{target}>1) where 2.05 MJ of 351 nm laser light produced 3.1 MJ of total fusion yield, a result which significantly exceeds the Lawson criterion for fusion ignition as reported in a previous NIF implosion [H. Abu-Shawareb et al. (Indirect Drive ICF Collaboration), Phys. Rev. Lett. 129, 075001 (2022)PRLTAO0031-900710.1103/PhysRevLett.129.075001]. This achievement is the culmination of more than five decades of research and gives proof that laboratory fusion, based on fundamental physics principles, is possible. This Letter reports on the target, laser, design, and experimental advancements that led to this result.

Unraveling the maternal and paternal origins of allotetraploid Vigna reflexo-pilosa

The genomic structures of Vigna hirtella Ridl. and Vigna trinervia (B.Heyne ex Wight & Arn.) Tateishi & Maxted, key ancestral species of the allotetraploid Vigna reflexo-pilosa var. glabra (Roxb.) N.Tomooka & Maxted, remain poorly understood. This study presents a comprehensive genomic comparison of these species to deepen our knowledge of their evolutionary trajectories. By comparing the genomic profiles of V. hirtella and V. trinervia with those of V. reflexo-pilosa, we investigate the complex genomic mechanisms underlying allopolyploid evolution within the genus Vigna. Comparison of the chloroplast genome revealed that V. trinervia is closely related to V. reflexo-pilosa. De novo assembly of the whole genome, followed by synteny analysis and Ks value calculations, confirms that V. trinervia is closely related to the A genome of V. reflexo-pilosa, and V. hirtella to its B genome. Furthermore, the comparative analyses reveal that V. reflexo-pilosa retains residual signatures of a previous polyploidization event, particularly evident in higher gene family copy numbers. Our research provides genomic evidence for polyploidization within the genus Vigna and identifies potential donor species of allotetraploid species using de novo assembly techniques. Given the Southeast Asian distribution of both V. hirtella and V. trinervia, natural hybridization between these species, with V. trinervia as the maternal ancestor and V. hirtella as the paternal donor, seems plausible.

What Drives Belief in COVID-19 Conspiracy Theories? Examining the Role of Uncertainty, Negative Emotions, and Perceived Relevance and Threat

As conspiracy theories around COVID-19 pose a big global challenge to public health and well-being, this study seeks to identify how and when people are likely to activate conspiratorial thinking and believe in conspiracy theories about the coronavirus. Based on a U.S. national two-wave survey (W1: N = 1,119; W2: N = 543), this study found partial support for direct effects of uncertainty on conspiratorial thinking and support for indirect effects through threat perception. We also found some evidence of direct effects of uncertainty on conspiracy beliefs and indirect effects through threat perception and serially mediated through threat perception and negative emotions. Findings suggest that effects - either direct or indirect - of uncertainty on conspiratorial thinking/conspiracy beliefs are moderated by perceived relevance to COVID-19, personal experience of the disease, and social media use. Theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.

Accuracy of 11 Wearable, Nearable, and Airable Consumer Sleep Trackers: Prospective Multicenter Validation Study

BACKGROUND

Consumer sleep trackers (CSTs) have gained significant popularity because they enable individuals to conveniently monitor and analyze their sleep. However, limited studies have comprehensively validated the performance of widely used CSTs. Our study therefore investigated popular CSTs based on various biosignals and algorithms by assessing the agreement with polysomnography.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to validate the accuracy of various types of CSTs through a comparison with in-lab polysomnography. Additionally, by including widely used CSTs and conducting a multicenter study with a large sample size, this study seeks to provide comprehensive insights into the performance and applicability of these CSTs for sleep monitoring in a hospital environment.

METHODS

The study analyzed 11 commercially available CSTs, including 5 wearables (Google Pixel Watch, Galaxy Watch 5, Fitbit Sense 2, Apple Watch 8, and Oura Ring 3), 3 nearables (Withings Sleep Tracking Mat, Google Nest Hub 2, and Amazon Halo Rise), and 3 airables (SleepRoutine, SleepScore, and Pillow). The 11 CSTs were divided into 2 groups, ensuring maximum inclusion while avoiding interference between the CSTs within each group. Each group (comprising 8 CSTs) was also compared via polysomnography.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 75 participants from a tertiary hospital and a primary sleep-specialized clinic in Korea. Across the 2 centers, we collected a total of 3890 hours of sleep sessions based on 11 CSTs, along with 543 hours of polysomnography recordings. Each CST sleep recording covered an average of 353 hours. We analyzed a total of 349,114 epochs from the 11 CSTs compared with polysomnography, where epoch-by-epoch agreement in sleep stage classification showed substantial performance variation. More specifically, the highest macro F1 score was 0.69, while the lowest macro F1 score was 0.26. Various sleep trackers exhibited diverse performances across sleep stages, with SleepRoutine excelling in the wake and rapid eye movement stages, and wearables like Google Pixel Watch and Fitbit Sense 2 showing superiority in the deep stage. There was a distinct trend in sleep measure estimation according to the type of device. Wearables showed high proportional bias in sleep efficiency, while nearables exhibited high proportional bias in sleep latency. Subgroup analyses of sleep trackers revealed variations in macro F1 scores based on factors, such as BMI, sleep efficiency, and apnea-hypopnea index, while the differences between male and female subgroups were minimal.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that among the 11 CSTs examined, specific CSTs showed substantial agreement with polysomnography, indicating their potential application in sleep monitoring, while other CSTs were partially consistent with polysomnography. This study offers insights into the strengths of CSTs within the 3 different classes for individuals interested in wellness who wish to understand and proactively manage their own sleep.

Early urodynamic findings after complete primary repair of exstrophy

INTRODUCTION

Detrusor contraction in bladder exstrophy (BE) patients following reconstruction is poorly understood as there are few published studies assessing urodynamic findings in this population. Understanding the ability of the detrusor to contract in BE patients early after closure may be able to inform the longer-term management and potential for the development of future continence in this population.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to evaluate early detrusor contraction using urodynamic studies (UDS) in children who had previously undergone complete primary repair of bladder exstrophy (CPRE). We hypothesized that a majority of children with BE would display the presence of normal detrusor contractile function after CPRE.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective review of our prospectively collected database was performed for all patients with a diagnosis of classic BE who underwent primary CPRE between 2013 and 2017. From this cohort we identified patients with at least one post-operative UDS at 3 years of age or older who had undergone an initial CPRE. Our primary outcome was the presence of a detrusor contraction demonstrated on UDS.

RESULTS

There were 50 children (31 male, 19 female) with CBE who underwent CPRE between 2013 and 2017.There were 26 (13 male, 13 female) who met inclusion criteria. Median age was 3.5 (IQR: 3.2-4.7) years at the time of UDS Sixteen of the 26 (61.5%) generated a sustained detrusor contraction generating a void, with a median peak voiding pressure of 38 cm H20 (IQR: 28-51). The median bladder capacity reached was 48 ml, which represented a median of 30% of expected bladder capacity. The median post void residual (PVR) for the entire cohort was 26 ml (IQR: 9, 47) or 51% (IQR: 20%-98%) of their actual bladder capacity, while the median PVR for those children with a sustained detrusor contraction was 18 ml (IQR: 5, 46) or 33% (IQR: 27%, 98%) of their actual bladder capacity. Intraoperative bladder width and bladder dome to bladder neck length did not correlate with the presence of voiding via a detrusor contraction (p = 0.64).

DISCUSSION

We present the first study assessing early UDS finding of detrusor contraction in BE patients after CPRE. In our cohort, 61.5% of patients were able to generate a sustained detrusor contraction on UDS which is a higher percentage than has been reported in previous series. A difference in initial surgical management may account for these findings.

CONCLUSION

At short term follow up, the majority of children in our cohort were able to produce sustained detrusor contractions sufficient to generate a void per urethra with a modest post void residual volume. Long-term follow-up and repeated UDS will be needed to track detrusor contractility rates, bladder capacities, compliance, post void residuals and ultimately continence rates over time.

Power Benefits of High-Altitude Flapping Wing Flight at the Monarch Butterfly Scale

The long-range migration of monarch butterflies, extended over 4000 km, is not well understood. Monarchs experience varying density conditions during migration, ranging as high as 3000 m, where the air density is much lower than at sea level. In this study, we test the hypothesis that the aerodynamic performance of monarchs improves at reduced density conditions by considering the fluid-structure interaction of chordwise flexible wings. A well-validated, fully coupled Navier-Stokes/structural dynamics solver was used to illustrate the interplay between wing motion, aerodynamics, and structural flexibility in forward flight. The wing density and elastic modulus were measured from real monarch wings and prescribed as inputs to the aeroelastic framework. Our results show that sufficient lift is generated to offset the butterfly weight at higher altitudes, aided by the wake-capture mechanism, which is a nonlinear wing-wake interaction mechanism, commonly seen for hovering animals. The mean total power, defined as the sum of the aerodynamic and inertial power, decreased by 36% from the sea level to the condition at 3000 m. Decreasing power with altitude, while maintaining the same equilibrium lift, suggests that the butterflies generate lift more efficiently at higher altitudes.

The Effects of Intraoperative Remifentanil Infusion on Postoperative Opioid Consumption in Patients Who Underwent Total Knee Arthroplasty with Femoral Nerve Block

(1) Background: Remifentanil is used for intraoperative pain control; however, it has several side effects, such as hypotension and opioid-induced hyperalgesia. We aimed to determine whether an intraoperative remifentanil infusion may increase postoperative opioid consumption in patients undergoing total knee arthroscopy (TKA) under femoral nerve block (FNB) in addition to general anesthesia. (2) Methods: We randomly assigned 66 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty to the remifentanil (R) and control (C) groups. All patients underwent FNB and popliteal artery and posterior capsule of the knee (iPACK) block in addition to sevoflurane-based general anesthesia. Postoperative pain control was achieved using intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA) fentanyl. We recorded IV-PCA fentanyl consumption at various postoperative timepoints, numerical rating scale (NRS) scores, intraoperative changes in vital signs and index of nociception (qNOX), ephedrine consumption, postoperative side effects, satisfaction, and sleep quality. (3) Results: The primary outcome (the cumulative IV-PCA fentanyl usage within 48 h postoperatively) was significantly lower in the C group (541.1 ± 294.5 µg) than in the R group (717.5 ± 224.0 µg) (p < 0.001). The secondary outcome (the cumulative IV-PCA fentanyl usage within 12, 24, and 72 h) was lower in the C group than in the R group and the mean arterial pressure was lower in the R group than in the C group from immediately after tourniquet on to immediately after tourniquet off. The heart rate was lower in the R group from immediately after incision to immediately after irrigation. There was no significant between-group difference in the perioperative qNOX and NRS scores at rest and activity except for NRS scores at 72 h postoperatively. Ephedrine use was higher in the R group than in the C group (p = 0.003). There was no significant between-group difference in the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting, nor in the postoperative satisfaction and sleep quality. (4) Conclusions: Avoiding intraoperative remifentanil infusion may reduce total opioid consumption in patients undergoing FNB before TKA.

Childhood-Onset Lupus Nephritis in the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance Registry: Short-Term Kidney Status and Variation in Care

OBJECTIVE

The goal was to characterize short-term kidney status and describe variation in early care utilization in a multicenter cohort of patients with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE) and nephritis.

METHODS

We analyzed previously collected prospective data from North American patients with cSLE with kidney biopsy-proven nephritis enrolled in the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) Registry from March 2017 through December 2019. We determined the proportion of patients with abnormal kidney status at the most recent registry visit and applied generalized linear mixed models to identify associated factors. We also calculated frequency of medication use, both during induction and ever recorded.

RESULTS

We identified 222 patients with kidney biopsy-proven nephritis, with 64% class III/IV nephritis on initial biopsy. At the most recent registry visit at median (interquartile range) of 17 (8-29) months from initial kidney biopsy, 58 of 106 patients (55%) with available data had abnormal kidney status. This finding was associated with male sex (odds ratio [OR] 3.88, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.21-12.46) and age at cSLE diagnosis (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.01-1.49). Patients with class IV nephritis were more likely than class III to receive cyclophosphamide and rituximab during induction. There was substantial variation in mycophenolate, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab ever use patterns across rheumatology centers.

CONCLUSION

In this cohort with predominately class III/IV nephritis, male sex and older age at cSLE diagnosis were associated with abnormal short-term kidney status. We also observed substantial variation in contemporary medication use for pediatric lupus nephritis between pediatric rheumatology centers. Additional studies are needed to better understand the impact of this variation on long-term kidney outcomes.

Monitored Anesthesia Care Using Remimazolam and Ketamine Combination for Brief Gynecological Surgeries: A Report for Four Cases

Remimazolam is a benzodiazepine with rapid onset and recovery time. Ketamine provides analgesia and sedation without compromising hemodynamics. Combining both agents may provide good anesthesia and analgesia with fewer complications. We report four cases of monitored anesthesia care with a combination of remimazolam and ketamine for brief gynecological surgeries. We applied 0.5 mg/kg bolus ketamine and infused patients with remimazolam at 6 mg/kg/h for induction and 1 mg/kg/h for maintenance. Then, 25 µg of fentanyl was administered for analgesia 4 min before the procedure, and additional fentanyl was administered as needed. Remimazolam was discontinued shortly after surgery. We conducted satisfactory monitored anesthesia care with a combination of remimazolam and ketamine in all four cases.

Combination of Lactobacillus plantarum HAC03 and Garcinia cambogia Has a Significant Anti-Obesity Effect in Diet-Induced Obesity Mice

Obesity is a major global health problem which is associated with various diseases and psychological conditions. Increasing understanding of the relationship between obesity and gut microbiota has led to a worldwide effort to use microbiota as a treatment for obesity. However, several clinical trials have shown that obesity treatment with single strains of probiotics did not achieve as significant results as in animal studies. To overcome this limitation, we attempted to find a new combination that goes beyond the effects of probiotics alone by combining probiotics and a natural substance that has a stronger anti-obesity effect. In this study, we used a diet-induced obesity mouse (DIO) model to investigate the effects of combining Lactobacillus plantarum HAC03 with Garcinia cambogia extract, as compared to the effects of each substance alone. Combining L. plantarum HAC03 and G. cambogia, treatment showed a more than two-fold reduction in weight gain compared to each substance administered alone. Even though the total amount administered was kept the same as for other single experiments, the combination treatment significantly reduced biochemical markers of obesity and adipocyte size, in comparison to the treatment with either substance alone. The treatment with a combination of two substances also significantly decreased the gene expression of fatty acid synthesis (FAS, ACC, PPARγ and SREBP1c) in mesenteric adipose tissue (MAT). Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the fecal microbiota suggested that the combination of L. plantarum HAC03 and G. cambogia extract treatment changed the diversity of gut microbiota and altered specific bacterial taxa at the genus level (the Eubacterium coprostanoligenes group and Lachnospiraceae UCG group) and specific functions (NAD salvage pathway I and starch degradation V). Our results support that the idea that the combination of L. plantarum HAC03 and G. cambogia extract has a synergistic anti-obesity effect by restoring the composition of the gut microbiota. This combination also increases the abundance of bacteria responsible for energy metabolism, as well as the production of SCFAs and BCAAs. Furthermore, no significant adverse effects were observed during the experiment.

Intraarticular steroids as DMARD-sparing agents for juvenile idiopathic arthritis flares: Analysis of the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance Registry

BACKGROUND

Children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) who achieve a drug free remission often experience a flare of their disease requiring either intraarticular steroids (IAS) or systemic treatment with disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). IAS offer an opportunity to recapture disease control and avoid exposure to side effects from systemic immunosuppression. We examined a cohort of patients treated with IAS after drug free remission and report the probability of restarting systemic treatment within 12 months.

METHODS

We analyzed a cohort of patients from the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) Registry who received IAS for a flare after a period of drug free remission. Historical factors and clinical characteristics and of the patients including data obtained at the time of treatment were analyzed.

RESULTS

We identified 46 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Of those with follow up data available 49% had restarted systemic treatment 6 months after IAS injection and 70% had restarted systemic treatment at 12 months. The proportion of patients with prior use of a biologic DMARD was the only factor that differed between patients who restarted systemic treatment those who did not, both at 6 months (79% vs 35%, p < 0.01) and 12 months (81% vs 33%, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

While IAS are an option for all patients who flare after drug free remission, it may not prevent the need to restart systemic treatment. Prior use of a biologic DMARD may predict lack of success for IAS. Those who previously received methotrexate only, on the other hand, are excellent candidates for IAS.

Is Online Video-Based Education an Effective Method to Teach Basic Surgical Skills to Students and Surgical Trainees? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Online education has been increasingly utilized over the past decades. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the transition of conventional face-to-face curricula to online platforms, with limited evidence for its teaching efficacy. This systematic review aims to assess the effectiveness of online video-based education compared with standard conventional education in teaching basic surgical skills to surgical trainees and students undergoing medical training.

METHODS

We performed a literature search in Embase, Medline, Cochrane CENTRAL and Scopus from inception until February 2022. Studies included were randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies. We included randomised controlled trials only for meta-analysis. The primary outcome was surgical skill proficiency. The secondary outcomes were participant perception, confidence and satisfaction. Two authors independently assessed the search results for eligibility, extracted the data and assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2. Where appropriate, we performed random effects meta-analyses of the pooled study data to calculate a standardized mean difference.

RESULTS

A total of 11 studies met the inclusion criteria totaling 715 participants; 603 were included in qualitative analysis and 380 in meta-analysis. All included studies were assessed as having a low risk of bias. The majority of studies found no significant difference between conventional and video-based education in teaching basic surgical skills, three studies found video-based education was superior and one study found conventional education was superior. There was no statistically significant difference in skill proficiency between the two groups (standardized mean difference of -0.02 (95% CI: -0.34, 0.30); p=0.90). Video-based education results in an equivalent improvement in confidence and satisfaction rates. Additional benefits of video-based education include convenience, accessibility and efficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

Basic surgical skills can be taught as effectively through online video-based education as conventional teaching methods. Online education should be utilized as an adjunct to medical curricula beyond the COVID-19 era.

The I4RON-HF study, Intravenous Iron Isomaltoside for Inpatients veRsus Outpatient Asians with Heart Failure

Background and purpose

Iron deficiency (ID) impacts ∼50% of heart failure (HF) patients [1] and is a risk factor and strong predictor for death and mortality with or without anaemia [2]. Oral iron appears to be ineffective whilst intravenous iron (IV-iron) has proven to be efficacious however data is primarily from a Caucasian population [3] despite ID being more prevalent amongst Asians. The I4RON-HF study assesses efficacy of high-dose IV-iron versus oral iron in stable outpatients and inpatients amongst an Asian population recovering from episodes of decompensated HF.

Methods

This is a single-centre randomized controlled study, where patients who had symptomatic heart failure (Ejection Fraction &lt;50% and New York Heart Association class 2–3) were randomized into two groups. The intervention arm received anywhere from 500mg to 1500mg of IV Iron Isomaltoside as a single infusion, whereas the control arm received routine iron supplements.

The primary study endpoint was the percentage of patients achieving iron repletion at 4,8 and 12 months after enrolment. Secondary endpoints included clinical parameters (6-minute walk test, NYHA status and 2D-Echocardiogram), and biochemical parameters (Serum NTproBNP, Cardiac Troponin-T and hemogloblin) at 4,8 and 12 months.

Results

A total of 65 patients were enrolled (male 55%), 33 in the interventional arm and 32 in the control arm. There were no patients lost to follow up. 96.9% of patients in the IV Iron arm achieved the primary endpoint at 4 months, compared to 68.7% in the control group. These findings we consistent at 8 months (90.9% vs 65.6%) and 12 months (90.9% vs 56.2%). Looking at the secondary endpoints, the IV Iron cohort recorded a 11.14% increase in Hemogloblin levels versus the control arm which recorded a reduction of 16.23%. There was also lower NTproBNP levels in the IV iron group (81.6% reduction) versus the control group (66.3% reduction). Clinically, the patients who received IV iron had a 42.98% increase in their 6-minute walk test from baseline, compared to an increase of 8.61% in the control arm. There were no significant echocardiographic changes.

Conclusion

These findings in our single-centre study support the efficacy of IV iron over oral supplements in the treatment of iron deficiency amongst Asian heart failure patients. The secondary endpoints also indicate better clinical and biochemical outcomes when iron stores are successfully repleted. Lastly, this study demonstrates the feasibility and safety of outpatient administration of high-dose IV-iron. Results from large-scale clinical studies looking at hard endpoints (mortality, HF hospitalization) are expected to further advance understandings.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): National Heart Institute (Institut Jantung Negara) FoundationCompai Pharma

Association of malnutrition with in-hospital and long-term outcomes among ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients receiving primary PCI

Background

The impact of malnutrition on outcomes in a contemporary ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) population is unclear. We hypothesized that malnutrition severity amongst STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) is associated with worse long-term outcomes.

Purpose

The aim of this study was 2-fold: 1) to establish the prevalence of malnutrition among STEMI patients undergoing pPCI; 2) to determine the association of malnutrition severity on in-hospital and 1-year outcomes in STEMI patients receiving pPCI

Methods

We retrospectively identified 1,169 STEMI patients of age ≥65 years who had received pPCI (2013–2020). Patients who had presented with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest or those who received fibrinolytic therapy were excluded. The Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score, based on serum albumin, total cholesterol and lymphocyte count, was used as a tool to assess the nutritional status of included patients. Malnourished patients were defined as those with a CONUT score of 5 to 12. To account for the impact of frailty, a frailty index (FI) was determined using the health deficit accumulation model (Table 1). The primary outcome was 1-year all-cause mortality. The secondary outcome was a composite of in-hospital heart failure, cardiogenic shock, re-infarction, major bleeding, stroke, and all-cause mortality. A multivariable model adjusting for baseline covariates, including frailty index score, was performed (Figure 1).

Results

Among 1,169 STEMI patients receiving pPCI, 315 (26.9%) were classified as malnourished. Malnourished patients were older (mean 77.4 vs. 76.0 years, p=0.009) and had a higher comorbidity burden. After multivariable adjustment, worsening malnutrition was associated with increased 1-year all-cause mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 1.29, p&lt;0.001). Worsening malnutrition was also associated with a higher incidence of the in-hospital composite adverse outcome (OR = 1.12, p=0.003) and increased in-hospital all-cause mortality (OR=1.41, p&lt;0.001).

Conclusion

Among STEMI patients receiving pPCI, 1 in 4 were malnourished. Malnutrition was associated with increased rate of in-hospital composite adverse outcome and worse long-term outcomes, even when accounting for frailty. Efforts to routinely identify malnourished STEMI patients and to implement best practices to reduce the risk of adverse events in this vulnerable population are warranted.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Sequencing and de novo assembly of the Koshihikari genome and identification of the genomic region related to the eating quality of cooked rice

The japonica rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivar Koshihikari is considered an important breeding material with good eating quality (EQ). To effectively utilize Koshihikari in molecular breeding programs, determining its whole genome sequence including cultivar-specific segment is crucial. Here, the Koshihikari genome was sequenced using Nanopore and Illumina platforms, and de novo assembly was performed. A highly contiguous Koshihikari genome sequence was compared with Nipponbare, the reference genome of japonica. Genome-wide synteny was observed, as expected, without large structural variations. However, several gaps in alignment were detected on chromosomes 3, 4, 9, and 11. It was notable that previously identified EQ-related QTLs were found in these gaps. Moreover, sequence variations were identified in chromosome 11 at a region flanking the P5 marker, one of the significant markers of good EQ. The Koshihikari-specific P5 region was found to be transmitted through the lineage. High EQ cultivars derived from Koshihikari possessed P5 sequences; on the other hand, Koshihikari-derived low EQ cultivars didn't contain the P5 region, which implies that the P5 genomic region affects the EQ of Koshihikari progenies. The EQ of near-isogenic lines (NILs) of Samnam (a low EQ cultivar) genetic background harboring the P5 segment was improved compared to that of Samnam in Toyo taste value. The structure of the Koshihikari-specific P5 genomic region associated with good EQ was analyzed, which is expected to facilitate the molecular breeding of rice cultivars with superior EQ.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11032-022-01335-3.

Lawson Criterion for Ignition Exceeded in an Inertial Fusion Experiment

For more than half a century, researchers around the world have been engaged in attempts to achieve fusion ignition as a proof of principle of various fusion concepts. Following the Lawson criterion, an ignited plasma is one where the fusion heating power is high enough to overcome all the physical processes that cool the fusion plasma, creating a positive thermodynamic feedback loop with rapidly increasing temperature. In inertially confined fusion, ignition is a state where the fusion plasma can begin "burn propagation" into surrounding cold fuel, enabling the possibility of high energy gain. While "scientific breakeven" (i.e., unity target gain) has not yet been achieved (here target gain is 0.72, 1.37 MJ of fusion for 1.92 MJ of laser energy), this Letter reports the first controlled fusion experiment, using laser indirect drive, on the National Ignition Facility to produce capsule gain (here 5.8) and reach ignition by nine different formulations of the Lawson criterion.

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

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.

Social determinants of health influence disease activity and functional disability in Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

BACKGROUND

Social determinants of health (SDH) greatly influence outcomes during the first year of treatment in rheumatoid arthritis, a disease similar to polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA). We investigated the correlation of community poverty level and other SDH with the persistence of moderate to severe disease activity and functional disability over the first year of treatment in pJIA patients enrolled in the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance Registry.

METHODS

In this cohort study, unadjusted and adjusted generalized linear mixed effects models analyzed the effect of community poverty and other SDH on disease activity, using the clinical Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score-10, and disability, using the Child Health Assessment Questionnaire, measured at baseline, 6, and 12 months.

RESULTS

One thousand six hundred eighty-four patients were identified. High community poverty (≥20% living below the federal poverty level) was associated with increased odds of functional disability (OR 1.82, 95% CI 1.28-2.60) but was not statistically significant after adjustment (aOR 1.23, 95% CI 0.81-1.86) and was not associated with increased disease activity. Non-white race/ethnicity was associated with higher disease activity (aOR 2.48, 95% CI: 1.41-4.36). Lower self-reported household income was associated with higher disease activity and persistent functional disability. Public insurance (aOR 1.56, 95% CI 1.06-2.29) and low family education (aOR 1.89, 95% CI 1.14-3.12) was associated with persistent functional disability.

CONCLUSION

High community poverty level was associated with persistent functional disability in unadjusted analysis but not with persistent moderate to high disease activity. Race/ethnicity and other SDH were associated with persistent disease activity and functional disability.

Adjuvant durvalumab for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy: a placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind, phase II study

BACKGROUND

We evaluated the efficacy of adjuvant durvalumab after neoadjuvant concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This randomized, double-blind, phase II study included patients with ESCC who underwent curative surgery after neoadjuvant CCRT. Patients were randomized to receive either durvalumab (20 mg/kg/i.v. every 4 weeks for 12 months) or placebo in a 1:1 ratio and were stratified by age and pathologic tumor stage. The primary endpoint was disease-free survival (DFS).

RESULTS

Between March 2016 and June 2018, 86 patients were randomized to the durvalumab (n = 45) or placebo (n = 41) arm. The median follow-up duration was 38.7 months. There was no difference in DFS [hazard ratio (HR) 1.18, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.62-2.27, P = 0.61] or overall survival (HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.52-2.24, P = 0.85) between the two arms. Subgroup analysis was performed for patients for whom the post-CCRT programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression profile could be assessed (n = 54). In the PD-L1-positive group, based on tumor proportion score ≥1%, durvalumab was associated with longer overall survival compared with the placebo (36-month survival rate: 94% versus 64%; HR 0.42, 95% CI 0.10-1.76), while in the PD-L1-negative group, it was associated with shorter overall survival (42% versus 55%; HR 1.53, 95% CI 0.48-4.83), showing the tendency of interaction between post-CCRT PD-L1 status and adjuvant durvalumab therapy for overall survival (interaction P = 0.18).

CONCLUSIONS

We failed to demonstrate that adjuvant durvalumab improved survival after neoadjuvant CCRT in patients with ESCC. However, post-CCRT PD-L1 expression could predict the survival of patients who receive adjuvant durvalumab after neoadjuvant CCRT, which needs to be validated.

Molecular epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Salmonella isolates from dairy heifer calves and adult lactating cows in a Mediterranean pasture-based system of Australia

Dairy cows can be reservoirs of foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella that pose serious public health risks to humans. The study was designed to examine the molecular epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance profiles of Salmonella isolates from dairy heifer calves and adult lactating cows in the pasture-based system of Australia. A total of 838 animals (328 heifer calves and 510 lactating cows) from 22 farms were sampled. Overall, 54 Salmonella isolates were recovered (calves 28/328 and cows 26/510). A herd-level Salmonella prevalence of 50% (95% confidence interval: 31%-69%) was recorded. Within-herd prevalence for Salmonella ranged between 4%-29% and 4%-45% among the heifer calves and adult lactating cows, respectively. Three different serovars were identified with Salmonella Infantis being the most common serovar (n = 33, 61%) followed by Salmonella Kiambu (n = 20, 37.0%) and one isolate of Salmonella Cerro (2%). The highest antimicrobial resistance prevalence of Salmonella isolates was found against streptomycin (n = 31, 57%), followed by cefoxitin (n = 12, 22%), ceftriaxone (n = 2, 4%), and chloramphenicol (n = 1, 2%). Multiple class resistance was observed on 4 isolates against cefoxitin, chloramphenicol, and streptomycin. Multilocus sequence types ST32 (61%), ST309 (37%), and ST367 (2%) were strongly linked to the serovars Salmonella Infantis, Salmonella Kiambu, and Salmonella Cerro, respectively. Whole genome sequencing of Salmonella isolates detected only 2 resistance genes: aac(6') gene that confers resistance against aminoglycosides among 40.7% of the isolates, and a single isolate positive for the blaDHA-16 gene. Two distinct clusters among the serovars were observed suggesting 2 independent sources of spread. Despite the low prevalence of antimicrobial resistance among Salmonella from the dairy farms, our findings contribute to the regional and national understanding of antimicrobial resistance in dairy herds in Australia. There is need for continued antimicrobial resistance stewardship and surveillance programs to ensure the production of high-quality food products and the long-term protection of both animal and human health.

Long-term prognostic factors of coronary artery disease patients after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

Background

The long-term prognosis of survival in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) with coronary artery disease (CAD) remains poor.

Methods

There were 2391 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients transferred to 2 hospitals. We included 405 cardiovascular arrest patients, who got return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) from January 2015 to December 2018. Among them, 204 patients had CAD that caused OHCA (39%: multi-vessel disease, 19%: chronic total occlusion (CTO), 13%: vasospastic angina (VSA)). To predict mortality, we investigated patients' characteristics, pre-hospital information and findings of CAG.

Results

At 1-year later, 104 patients (51%) survived. Younger age (P&lt;0.001), VF survivor (P&lt;0.001), pre-hospital ROSC (P&lt;0.001), bystander CPR (P=0.013), without ECMO (P&lt;0.001), lower lactate level on admission (P&lt;0.001), and higher geriatric nutritional risk index score (P&lt;0.001) were associated with low 1-year mortality, while with ST-segment elevation (P=0.778), BMI level (P=0.344), and sex (0.401) were not. And in the findings of CAG, the past history of CAD (P=0.049), the higher number of coronary vessel disease (P=0.003) such as multi-vessel disease (P=0.022), higher SYNAX score (P=0.016), and larger infarct size (max CK level; P=0.013, max CK-MB level; P&lt;0.001) were associated with high 1-year mortality. On the other hand, acute coronary syndrome (P=0.300), any coronary lesion (RCA (P=0.447), LAD (P=0.089), LCX (P=0.096), or LMT (P=0.842)), and with CTO lesion (P=0.140) were not associated. Zero-vessel disease (VSA, P=0.001) had lower mortality among the CAD patients. In the multivariate Cox proportional hazards model, age (hazards ratio; HR: 1.03, 95%confidence interval (CI) 1.00–1.06, P&lt;0.001) and bystander CPR (HR: 0.36, 95% CI 0.20–0.65, P&lt;0.001) were the independent predictors of mortality.

Conclusions

Younger age and pre-hospital support after OHCA with CAD were the predictors of low mortality. Pre-hospital information, systemic condition on arrival, or anatomical coronary complexity were important to predict low mortality.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Drug-coated balloon versus drug-eluting stent following orbital atherectomy for calcified coronary artery: one-year outcomes of a retrospective cohort study

Background

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for calcified coronary artery remains challenging in the drug-eluting stent (DES) era. The effectiveness of drug-coated balloons (DCBs) and orbital atherectomy system (OAS) is unknown.

Methods

In this retrospective, single-center study, we compared the use of DCBs with second- and third-generation DESs following orbital atherectomy (OA) for calcified de novo coronary lesions. All patients underwent PCI with intravascular imaging. The primary endpoint was major cardiac event, that was a composite of cardiac death, death for unknown cause, non-fatal myocardial infarction, or target lesion revascularization at 1 year.

Results

Between June 2018 and December 2019, 107 patients with coronary lesions were enrolled in this study and divided into two groups: 23 patients in DCB group and 84 patients in DES group. The post-procedure segment percentage diameter stenosis was 23.1% (interquartile range [IQR], 17.7 to 32.5) with DCB versus 14.4% (IQR, 10.0 to 21.2) with DES (P&lt;0.001). Overall adverse event rate for PCI procedure was low: one dissection with DES group, no persistent slow/no-flow, and no perforation with both group. The primary endpoint was not significantly different between 2 groups [DES: 6.0% (5/84), DCB: 0.0% (0/23), log-rank P=0.24].

Conclusions

In calcified coronary artery disease, using DCB following OA is as safe and effective as using DES following OA with respect to 1-year clinical outcomes.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Effectiveness and safety of apixaban vs warfarin among older venous thromboembolism patients: a subgroup analysis of age

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the third most common cardiovascular condition in adult patients. Older patients are at an increased risk of VTE. However, they have been underrepresented in clinical trials and evidence on the safety and effectiveness of anticoagulants in older VTE patients, especially very elderly patients (≥80 years), is sparse.

Purpose

To evaluate the risk of recurrent VTE, major bleeding (MB), and clinically relevant non-major (CRNM) bleeding among older VTE patients initiating apixaban or warfarin according to two age sub-groups: 65–79 and ≥80 years.

Methods

Older VTE patients (aged ≥65 years) who initiated apixaban or warfarin were identified from the CMS Medicare database (September 2014–December 2017). To balance the characteristics between apixaban and warfarin patients, stabilized inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) was conducted. Post IPTW, a subgroup interaction analysis was conducted to evaluate if there was any difference in treatment effects between the two age subgroups (65–79 vs. ≥80) on recurrent VTE, MB, and CRNM bleeding. Cox proportional hazard models were used to conduct the interaction analysis, and the statistical significance of the interaction was set to p-value &lt;0.10.

Results

A total of 22,135 apixaban and 45,840 warfarin patients with VTE aged ≥65 years were eligible for analysis. Post IPTW, patient characteristics were balanced between the apixaban and warfarin treatment cohorts. Apixaban patients had significantly lower risk of recurrent VTE, MB, and CRNM bleeding compared to warfarin patients (Figure). 42,551 (62.6%) were aged 65–79 years and 25,424 (37.4%) were aged ≥80 years. Among apixaban or warfarin patients, those aged 65–79 years had lower Charlson comorbidity index scores (mean 2.7 vs 3.2) and were less likely to have a diagnosis of anemia (34.7–34.9% vs 42.3–42.5%), cerebrovascular disease (14.7–15.7% vs 20.3–20.5%), or dementia (5.0–6.9% vs 20.4–24.6%) compared to patients aged ≥80 years. Across both age subgroups, incidence rates of recurrent VTE, MB and CRNM bleeding were lower for apixaban vs. warfarin. No significant interaction was observed between the treatment and age on recurrent VTE and MB (Figure). There was a significant interaction between treatment and age on CRNM bleeding. Apixaban trended towards a lower risk of CRNM bleeding across both age groups but the treatment effect on CRNM bleeding was larger for patients aged 65–79 years.

Conclusion

The treatment effects of apixaban vs. warfarin on recurrent VTE and MB were consistently observed across both older age groups in this analysis. More studies are needed to evaluate management of VTE in an older and especially the very elderly population.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Bristol-Myers Squibb Company and Pfizer Inc.

Effectiveness and safety of apixaban vs warfarin among older venous thromboembolism patients stratified by race

Background

Race has been identified as a risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE), with Black individuals having a higher risk of VTE compared to Caucasians. Black patients have been underrepresented in clinical trials evaluating anticoagulants for VTE. There has been limited evidence about the effects of anticoagulants for Black patients with VTE in routine clinical practice.

Purpose

To evaluate the risk of recurrent VTE, major bleeding (MB), and clinically relevant non-major (CRNM) bleeding among VTE patients initiating apixaban or warfarin stratified by race.

Methods

Older VTE patients (≥65 years) who initiated apixaban or warfarin were selected from the CMS Medicare database (September 2014–December 2017). Stabilized inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) was used to balance the differences between apixaban and warfarin cohorts. After IPTW, subgroup interaction analysis was conducted to evaluate if treatment effects were different between Black and White patients in the Medicare population. Due to small sample size, other races were not included in the interaction analysis. Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate if there was significant interaction (p&lt;0.10) between treatment and race on recurrent VTE, MB, or CRNM bleeding.

Results

A total of 22,135 apixaban and 45,840 warfarin patients with VTE were included in the analysis. Post-IPTW, patient characteristics were balanced between apixaban and warfarin treatment cohorts. Apixaban patients had significantly lower risk of recurrent VTE, MB, and CRNM bleeding compared to warfarin patients (Figure). When stratified by race, 57,008 (83.9%) were White, 7,832 (11.5%) Black, and 3,135 (4.6%) other races. For both treatment cohorts, age was similar between Black (77.0–77.2 years) and White (77.4–77.5 years) patients. However, Black patients were more likely to have an inpatient VTE event (77.3–77.8% vs. 63.1–63.3%), a provoked VTE event (78.6–79.5% vs 69.4–69.6%), and a higher comorbidity index score (mean 4.1 vs. 2.7) compared to White patients with VTE. The incidence rates per 100 person-years of recurrent VTE (2.0–3.3 vs 1.4–2.2) and MB (7.4–10.1 vs 3.5–5.3) were also numerically higher for Black patients compared to White patients. Across both race groups, apixaban patients had a lower incidence rate of recurrent VTE, MB and CRNM bleeding compared to warfarin patients. No significant interaction was observed between treatment and race for recurrent VTE, MB, or CRNM bleeding (Figure). The findings within each race group were consistent with those of the overall VTE population.

Conclusion

Among older VTE patients, disparities were observed in VTE characteristics and clinical outcomes between Black and White patients. Across both race groups, apixaban had lower risk of recurrent VTE, MB, and CRNM bleeding compared to warfarin patients. Further studies are needed to identify optimal management strategies for Black patients with VTE.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Pfizer IncBristol-Myers Squibb Company

Effectiveness and safety of apixaban vs warfarin among venous thromboembolism patients using five US databases: a subgroup analysis of chronic liver disease

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious disease in the United States affecting approximately 1 in 1000 patients each year. Patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) are at an increased risk of VTE and major bleeding (MB). Currently, insufficient clinical and real-world evidence exists on the efficacy/effectiveness and safety of apixaban or warfarin in VTE patients with CLD.

Purpose

To evaluate the risk of recurrent VTE, MB, and clinically relevant non-major (CRNM) bleeding among VTE patients initiating apixaban or warfarin stratified by CLD status.

Methods

VTE patients ≥18 years of age (≥65 years for Medicare) initiating apixaban or warfarin were identified from CMS Medicare and four commercial claims databases. To balance the characteristics between apixaban and warfarin patients, stabilized inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) was conducted. Post-IPTW, subgroup interaction analysis was conducted to evaluate whether treatment effects of apixaban vs. warfarin were consistent across patients with and without a diagnosis of CLD. Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the interaction of the treatment (apixaban vs. warfarin) and CLD on recurrent VTE, MB, and CRNM bleeding. The statistical significance of the interaction was set to p-value &lt;0.10.

Results

A total of 60,786 apixaban and 94,333 warfarin patients with VTE were eligible for analysis. Post-IPTW, all patient characteristics were balanced between the apixaban and warfarin treatment cohorts. Apixaban treated patients had significantly lower risk of recurrent VTE, MB, and CRNM bleeding compared to warfarin patients (Figure). In the IPTW weighted population, 4,766 (7.8%) apixaban patients and 6,320 (6.7%) warfarin patients had a diagnosis of CLD. For the apixaban or warfarin patients, those with a diagnosis of CLD were generally younger (mean 64.0–65.2 vs 66.9 years), had higher Charlson comorbidity index scores (mean 3.8–3.9 vs 2.1) and were more likely to have an inpatient VTE event (67.8–69.5% vs 53.0–53.2%) or provoked VTE events (66.2–67.8% vs 55.4–55.5%) compared to patients without a diagnosis of CLD. The incidence rate of recurrent VTE, MB, and CRNM bleeding was higher among VTE patients with CLD than without CLD and was also higher for patients treated with warfarin compared to those treated with apixaban regardless of CLD status (Figure). There were no significant interactions observed between treatment and CLD status for recurrent VTE, MB or CRNM (Figure).

Conclusion

Treatment with apixaban had a lower risk of recurrent VTE, MB, and CRNM bleeding compared to treatment with warfarin. The benefits of apixaban were consistently observed among subgroups of VTE patients with and without CLD. Additional studies are needed to evaluate VTE patients with CLD.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Bristol-Myers Squibb Company and Pfizer, Inc.

Genome assembly of the popular Korean soybean cultivar Hwangkeum

Massive resequencing efforts have been undertaken to catalog allelic variants in major crop species including soybean, but the scope of the information for genetic variation often depends on short sequence reads mapped to the extant reference genome. Additional de novo assembled genome sequences provide a unique opportunity to explore a dispensable genome fraction in the pan-genome of a species. Here, we report the de novo assembly and annotation of Hwangkeum, a popular soybean cultivar in Korea. The assembly was constructed using PromethION nanopore sequencing data and two genetic maps and was then error-corrected using Illumina short-reads and PacBio SMRT reads. The 933.12 Mb assembly was annotated as containing 79,870 transcripts for 58,550 genes using RNA-Seq data and the public soybean annotation set. Comparison of the Hwangkeum assembly with the Williams 82 soybean reference genome sequence (Wm82.a2.v1) revealed 1.8 million single-nucleotide polymorphisms, 0.5 million indels, and 25 thousand putative structural variants. However, there was no natural megabase-scale chromosomal rearrangement. Incidentally, by adding two novel subfamilies, we found that soybean contains four clearly separated subfamilies of centromeric satellite repeats. Analyses of satellite repeats and gene content suggested that the Hwangkeum assembly is a high-quality assembly. This was further supported by comparison of the marker arrangement of anthocyanin biosynthesis genes and of gene arrangement at the Rsv3 locus. Therefore, the results indicate that the de novo assembly of Hwangkeum is a valuable additional reference genome resource for characterizing traits for the improvement of this important crop species.

P–758 The efficacy, safety and proven security of microSecure vitrification offers “peace of mind” and reliability during a global pandemic

Study question

Under deadly pandemic conditions involving the novel SARS-CoV–2 corona virus, could biopsied blastocysts be safely cryopreserved, stored and utilized for subsequent warming cycles?

Summary answer

Blastocysts were securely stored, effectively warmed and safely transferred to yield normal pregnancy outcomes under uncertain laboratory conditions subject to unprecedented policy changes.

What is known already

By April 2020, every IVF lab worldwide was implementing deep cleaning/disinfecting procedures in their laboratory and patient-contact areas, thorough hand-washing policies and mandatory PPE to reduce the chance of contact transmission and spread of the potentially deadly SARS-CoV–2 coronavirus. Furthermore, we know that safeguards like oil overlay culture dishes and pipetting dilution factors provide insurance against possible contamination. However, knowing that the trophectoderm of blastocysts possessed the ACE–2 binding receptor, potential concern existed regarding the continuation of laser zona opening and biopsy procedures that could possibly expose cryopreserved embryos to the coronavirus in liquid nitrogen storage (vapor or liquid).

Study design, size, duration

Between March 8 and December 22, 2020, 508 patients performed FET cycles involving the use of single (n = 490) or dual (n = 18) euploid microSecure vitrified blastocysts. In this retrospective analysis, we compared clinical pregnancy outcomes to a 5 year dataset (2015–2019) encompassing 2768 single and 272 dual embryo transfer FET cycles. All blastocysts were vitrified using a closed microSecure system and Innovative Cryoenterprise (ICE; NJ, USA) non-DMSO, glycerol-EG solutions. Differences were assessed by Chi-square analysis (p < 0.05).

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Deep cleaning was performed with Simple Green Pro3+ Virucide in non-lab areas (e.g., ET rooms, waiting room) and 6% H2O2 & OoSafe solutions to disinfect lab surfaces and equipment. Group embryo cultures were performed in MCO–5M humidified incubators under low oxygen tri-gas conditions with varying CO2 levels (5.3–6.0%; pH = 7.3–7.35) using 25µl droplets of LifeGlobal medium+7.5%LGPS+1%sodium hyaluronate, before changing to 10µl droplet/GPS dishes post-biopsy. FET cycles involved 4-step sucrose dilutions and transvaginal ultrasound-guided embryo transfers.

Main results and the role of chance

While ICSI fertilization rates were unchanged in 2020 (79.4% 2PN vs 77.3%), blastocyst utilization rates tended to be slightly lower than past years (56.4% vs 59.9%) but within an acceptable range. Of 529 blastocysts warmed, 527 (99.7%) survived completely for transfer, being comparable to the 99.4% experienced over 5 years. Furthermore, there was no differences detected in single embryo transfer pregnancy outcomes. The implantation and ongoing clinical pregnancy/live birth rates were 69% and 66.53% compared to 70.4% and 65.1%, respectively. Under pandemic conditions we did not observe an increase in biochemical pregnancies (10.3%) nor spontaneous miscarriage rates (7.8%). Although it is possible that our rigorous disinfection practices could have attributed to lower blastocyst production, the viability of those embryos was not compromised. Importantly, we were able to feel comfortable performing micromanipulation and cryopreservation procedures throughout the year knowing that we were effectively eliminating possible vertical transmission of coronavirus to an exposed trophectoderm layer in cryostorage by applying mircoSecure vitrification. Post-FET clinical check-ups revealed no patient reporting any fever or other Covid–19 symptoms in the weeks following their transfers. We are fortunate to say that our Lab staff, physicians and patients have remained healthy throughout 2020.

Limitations, reasons for caution

Blastocyst survival and viability are independent of possible viral exposure. Previously, the risk of disease transmission via liquid nitrogen or vapor exposure was considered highly unlikely (Pomeroy et al., 2010), but that was at a time when embryos were primarily zona-enclosed. Today’s ART standards have us re-evaluating safer approaches.

Wider implications of the findings: We have effectively mitigated avoiding performing zona opening procedures by employing our standard practice of aseptic, closed vitrification. In combination with standard preventative measures (PPE, hand hygiene, distance awareness) and routine deep cleaning practices, we sustained a contamination-free environment and healthy patients, capable of sustaining high levels of pregnancy success.

Trial registration number

Not applicable

Effects of abdomen undulation in energy consumption and stability for monarch butterfly

The flight of monarch butterflies is characterized by a relatively large wing, flapping at a relatively low frequency coupled with abdomen undulation. This paper presents the dynamics of a flapping wing flyer that can be applied to the coupled motion of the wing, body, and abdomen at the monarch butterfly scale, which is formulated directly on the configuration manifold. The resulting thorax and abdomen motion as well as the resultant forces are consistent with the flight of a live monarch butterfly. Based on these, beneficial effects of the abdomen undulation in the flight of monarch butterflies are illustrated. For both hover and forward-climbing trajectories, the abdomen undulation results in a reduction of the energy and power consumption. Furthermore, the Floquet stability analysis shows that the periodic orbits associated with both flight modes are stable. In particular, the abdomen undulation improves the stability. Compared to the dynamics of hawkmoth, bumblebee, and fruitfly models, the monarch possesses superior stability properties.

92 Reshaping the Diagnostic Pathways for Investigation of Haematuria During and After The COVID-19 Pandemic: Diagnostic Accuracy of Strategies for Detection of Bladder Cancer from The IDENTIFY Cohort Study

Introduction

Diagnostic haematuria services have been reduced due to the COVID-19 pandemic, compromising patient care, and necessitating a more pragmatic pathway.

Method

The IDENTIFY study was an international, prospective, multicentre cohort study of over 11,000 patients referred to secondary care for investigation of haematuria. Using this data, we developed strategies using combinations of imaging and cytology as triage tests to maximise cancer detection within a pragmatic pathway.

Results

8112 patients (74·4%) received an ultrasound or a CT urogram, with or without cytology. 5737 (70·7%) patients had visible haematuria (VH) and 2375 (29·3%) had non-visible haematuria (NVH). Diagnostic test performance was used to determine optimal age cut-offs for four proposed strategies. We recommended proceeding directly to transurethral resection of bladder tumour for patients of any age with positive triage tests for cancer. Patients with negative triage tests under 35-years-old with VH, or under 50-years-old with NVH can safely be discharged without undergoing flexible cystoscopy. The remaining patients may undergo flexible cystoscopy, with a greater priority for older patients to capture high risk bladder cancer.

Conclusions

We suggest diagnostic strategies in patients with haematuria, which focus on detection of bladder cancer, whilst reducing the burden to healthcare services in a resource-limited setting.

Effects of flight altitude on the lift generation of monarch butterflies: from sea level to overwintering mountain

Aerodynamic efficiency behind the annual migration of monarch butterflies, the longest among insects, is an unsolved mystery. Monarchs migrate 4000 km at high-altitudes to their overwintering mountains in Central Mexico. The air is thinner at higher altitudes, yielding reduced aerodynamic drag and enhanced range. However, the lift is also expected to reduce in lower density conditions. To investigate the ability of monarchs to produce sufficient lift to fly in thinner air, we measured the climbing motion of freely flying monarchs in high-altitude conditions. An optical method was used to track the flapping wing and body motions inside a large pressure chamber. The air density inside the chamber was reduced to recreate the higher altitude densities. The lift coefficient generated by monarchs increased from 1.7 at the sea-level to 9.4 at 3000 m. The correlation between this increase and the flapping amplitude and frequency was insignificant. However, it strongly correlated to the effective angle of attack, which measures the wing to body velocity ratio. These results support the hypothesis that monarchs produce sufficiently high lift coefficients at high altitudes despite a lower dynamic pressure.

A study on accumulator analysis for the valve performance evaluation system of nuclear power plants

To evaluate the valves used in the nuclear power plants are working properly under the required conditions, the performance and capacity test should be performed. In the test system, the accumulator was employed to control the large amount of high pressure and high temperature steam generated in the boiler precisely. In the accumulating process, the steam is often condensed. In order to prevent condensation, it is needed to install heaters and preheat the accumulator. However, if the size of the accumulator becomes large, the installation of the heater may not be easy. Therefore, when the test is conducted, the system was preheated by the latent heat generated from the phase change. Insufficient thermal insulation may cause temperature differences and it can cause mechanical problems in the accumulator structure. If insulation is sufficient, the temperature difference is indicated by the height. As the cooled condensate moves downwards, the condensate is discharged by the drain valve control and the temperature difference of the structure can be disappeared. The results of this paper can be applied to the conceptualization of equipment that uses latent heat and for the design of high-precision steam experimental devices or the design of high-capacity steam utilization systems.

The impact of pre-eclampsia definitions on the identification of adverse outcome risk in hypertensive pregnancy - analyses from the CHIPS trial (Control of Hypertension in Pregnancy Study)

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between pre-eclampsia definition and pregnancy outcome.

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of Control of Hypertension in Pregnancy Study (CHIPS) trial data.

SETTING

International multicentre randomised controlled trial (RCT).

POPULATION

In all, 987 women with non-severe non-proteinuric pregnancy hypertension.

METHODS

We evaluated the association between pre-eclampsia definitions and adverse pregnancy outcomes, stratified by hypertension type and blood pressure control.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Main CHIPS trial outcomes: primary (perinatal loss or high-level neonatal care for >48 hours), secondary (serious maternal complications), birthweight <10th centile, severe maternal hypertension, delivery at <34 or <37 weeks, and maternal hospitalisation before birth.

RESULTS

Of 979/987 women with informative data, 280 (28.6%) progressed to pre-eclampsia defined restrictively by new proteinuria, and 471 (48.1%) to pre-eclampsia defined broadly as proteinuria or one/more maternal symptoms, signs or abnormal laboratory tests. The broad (versus restrictive) definition had significantly higher sensitivities (range 62-79% versus 36-50%), lower specificities (range 53-65% versus 72-82%), and similar or higher diagnostic odds ratios and 'true-positive' to 'false-positive' ratios. Stratified analyses showed similar results. Addition of available fetoplacental manifestations (stillbirth or birthweight <10th centile) to the broad pre-eclampsia definition improved sensitivity (74-87%).

CONCLUSIONS

A broad (versus restrictive) pre-eclampsia definition better identifies women who develop adverse pregnancy outcomes. These findings should be replicated in a prospective study within routine healthcare to ensure that the anticipated increase in surveillance and intervention in a larger number of women with pre-eclampsia is associated with improved outcomes, reasonable costs and congruence with women's values.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

A broad (versus restrictive) pre-eclampsia definition better identifies the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Confidence-Based Framework Using Deep Learning for Automated Sleep Stage Scoring

STUDY OBJECTIVES

Automated sleep stage scoring is not yet vigorously used in practice because of the black-box nature and the risk of wrong predictions. The objective of this study was to introduce a confidence-based framework to detect the possibly wrong predictions that would inform clinicians about which epochs would require a manual review and investigate the potential to improve accuracy for automated sleep stage scoring.

METHODS

We used 702 polysomnography studies from a local clinical dataset (SNUBH dataset) and 2804 from an open dataset (SHHS dataset) for experiments. We adapted the state-of-the-art TinySleepNet architecture to train the classifier and modified the ConfidNet architecture to train an auxiliary confidence model. For the confidence model, we developed a novel method, Dropout Correct Rate (DCR), and the performance of it was compared with other existing methods.

RESULTS

Confidence estimates (0.754) reflected accuracy (0.758) well in general. The best performance for differentiating correct and wrong predictions was shown when using the DCR method (AUROC: 0.812) compared to the existing approaches which largely failed to detect wrong predictions. By reviewing only 20% of epochs that received the lowest confidence values, the overall accuracy of sleep stage scoring was improved from 76% to 87%. For patients with reduced accuracy (ie, individuals with obesity or severe sleep apnea), the possible improvement range after applying confidence estimation was even greater.

CONCLUSION

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study applying confidence estimation on automated sleep stage scoring. Reliable confidence estimates by the DCR method help screen out most of the wrong predictions, which would increase the reliability and interpretability of automated sleep stage scoring.

Comparison of neointimal coverage between biodegradable-polymer everolimus-eluting stent and durable-polymer everolimus-eluting stent using angioscopy for the patients with acute coronary syndrome

Background

New-generation biodegradable-polymer platinum chromium everolimus-eluting stent (BP-PtCr-EES) is available, which has different polymer and alloy compare to more established stent design, a durable-polymer cobalt-chromium everolimus-eluting stent (DP-CoCr-EES).

Purpose

To compare neointimal coverage (NIC) between BP-PtCr-EES and DP-CoCr-EES by using coronary angioscopy (CAS).

Methods

A total of 36 patients (44 stents) with BP-PtCr-EES or DP-CoCr-EES who underwent CAS at 1 year after stenting were investigated. We compared angioscopic findings assessed by angioscopy between BP-PtCr-EES (n=18) and DP-CoCr-EES (n=26). NIC grade and yellow plaque grade (YPG) was adopted from earlier reports from grade 0 to 3. We determined maximum (max-) and minimum (min-) NIC grade and heterogeneity score (HGS = max NIC grade minus min NIC grade). We also assessed YPG and the presence of thrombus (TH).

Results

Six lesions (33.3%) in BP-PtCr-EES group and 7 (26.9%) lesions in DP-CoCr-EES group were culprit lesions of acute coronary syndrome, which did not statistically differ between the two groups (p=0.74). And there were no significant differences in stent diameter (BP-PtCr-EES: 2.97±0.39 mm vs DP-CoCr-EES: 3.14±0.45 mm, p=0.22) and length (BP-PtCr-EES: 26.9±7.9 mm vs DP-CoCr-EES: 28.4±8.0 mm, p=0.54). In terms of CAS findings, BP-PtCr-EES group has better neointimal coverage than DP-CoCr-EES group (max NIC grade: 2.6±0.7 vs 2.0±0.9, p=0.01. min NIC grade: 1.1±0.8 vs 0.5±0.5, p&lt;0.01), but HGS was almost same (1.6±0.7 vs 1.5±0.9, p=0.70). YPG of BP-PtCr-EES group showed significantly lower than DP-CoCr-EES group (1.0±1.0 vs 1.7±1.0, p=0.02). The rate of TH was significantly lower in BP-PtCr-EES group than DP-CoCr-EES group (25%, n=6, vs 75%, n=18, p=0.03). There were no clinical events such as stent thrombosis or restenosis during the observation period in both stent groups.

Conclusion

Superior neointimal coverage and less YPG or TH were observed by CAS in the BP-PtCr-EES group at 1 year after stenting. Clinical significance was still unknown because of no clinical events in both groups. Prospective and large populations studies may be required.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None