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ResearcherID
- D-1221-2009 (1)
Abstract
To compare intravenous contrast material (CM) injection protocols for dual-energy CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) in patients with suspected acute pulmonary embolism with regard to image quality and pulmonary perfused blood volume (PBV) values. A total of 198 studies performed with four CM injection protocols varying in CM volume and iodine delivery rates (IDR) were retrospectively included: (A) 60 ml at 5 ml/s (IDR = 1.75gI/s), (B) 50 ml at 5 ml/s (IDR = 1.75gI/s), (C) 50 ml at 4 ml/s (IDR = 1.40gI/s), (D) 40 ml at 3 ml/s (IDR = 1.05gI/s). Image quality and PBV values at different resolution settings were compared. Pulmonary arterial tract attenuation was highest for protocol A (397 ± 110 HU; p vs. B = 0.13; vs. C = 0.02; vs. D < 0.001). CTPA image quality of protocol A was rated superior compared to protocols B and D by reader 1 (p = 0.01; < 0.001), and superior to protocols B, C and D by reader 2 (p < 0.001; 0.02; < 0.001). Otherwise, there were no significant differences in CTPA quality ratings. Subjective iodine map ratings did not vary significantly between protocols A, B, and C. Both readers rated protocol D inferior to all other protocols (p < 0.05). PBV values did not vary significantly between protocols A and B at resolution settings of 1, 4 and 10 (p = 0.10; 0.10; 0.09), while otherwise PBV values displayed a decreasing trend from protocol A to D (p < 0.05). Higher CM volume and IDR are associated with superior CTPA and iodine map quality and higher absolute PBV values.
Purpose
Radiotherapy (RT) was identified as a risk factor for long-term cardiac effects in breast cancer patients treated until the 1990s. However, modern techniques reduce radiation exposure of the heart, but some exposure remains unavoidable. In a retrospective cohort study, we investigated cardiac mortality and morbidity of breast cancer survivors treated with recent RT in Germany.
Methods
A total of 11,982 breast cancer patients treated between 1998 and 2008 were included. A mortality follow-up was conducted until 06/2018. In order to assess cardiac morbidity occurring after breast cancer treatment, a questionnaire was sent out in 2014 and 2019. The effect of breast cancer laterality on cardiac mortality and morbidity was investigated as a proxy for radiation exposure. We used Cox Proportional Hazards regression analysis, taking potential confounders into account.
Results
After a median follow-up time of 11.1 years, there was no significant association of tumor laterality with cardiac mortality in irradiated patients (hazard ratio (HR) for left-sided versus right-sided tumor 1.09; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.85–1.41). Furthermore, tumor laterality was not identified as a significant risk factor for cardiac morbidity (HR = 1.05; 95%CI 0.88–1.25).
Conclusions
Even though RT for left-sided breast cancer on average incurs higher radiation dose to the heart than RT for right-sided tumors, we found no evidence that laterality is a strong risk factor for cardiac disease after contemporary RT. However, larger sample sizes, longer follow-up, detailed information on individual risk factors and heart dose are needed to assess clinically manifest late effects of current cancer therapy.
Across Europe, calcareous grasslands become increasingly fragmented and their quality deteriorates through abandonment and land use intensification, both affecting biodiversity. Here, we investigated local and landscape effects on diversity patterns of several taxonomic groups in a landscape of highly fragmented calcareous grassland remnants. We surveyed 31 grassland fragments near Göttingen, Germany, in spring and summer 2017 for vascular plants, butterflies and birds, with sampling effort adapted to fragment area. Through regression modelling, we tested relationships between species richness and fragment size (from 314 to 51,395 m\(^2\)), successional stage, habitat connectivity and the per cent cover of arable land in the landscape at several radii. We detected 283 plant species, 53 butterfly species and 70 bird species. Of these, 59 plant species, 19 butterfly species and 9 bird species were grassland specialists. Larger fragments supported twice the species richness of plants than small ones, and hosted more species of butterflies, but not of birds. Larger grassland fragments contained more grassland specialist plants, but not butterfly or bird specialists. Increasing amounts of arable land in the landscape from 20 to 90% was related to the loss of a third of species of plants, and less so, of butterflies, but not of birds. Per cent cover of arable land negatively correlated to richness of grassland specialist plants and butterflies, but positively to grassland specialist birds. We found no effect by successional stages and habitat connectivity. Our multi-taxa approach highlights the need for conservation management at the local scale, complemented by measures at the landscape scale.
Based on an embodied account of language comprehension, this study investigated the dynamic characteristics of children and adults’ perceptual simulations during sentence comprehension, using a novel paradigm to assess the perceptual simulation of objects moving up and down a vertical axis. The participants comprised adults (N = 40) and 6-, 8-, and 10-year-old children (N = 116). After listening in experimental trials to sentences implying that objects moved upward or downward, the participants were shown pictures and had to decide as quickly as possible whether the objects depicted had been mentioned in the sentences. The target pictures moved either up or down and then stopped in the middle of the screen. All age groups’ reaction times were found to be shorter when the objects moved in the directions that the sentences implied. Age exerted no developmental effect on reaction times. The findings suggest that dynamic perceptual simulations are fundamental to language comprehension in text recipients aged 6 and older.
Coisotropic algebras consist of triples of algebras for which a reduction can be defined and unify in a very algebraic fashion coisotropic reduction in several settings. In this paper, we study the theory of (formal) deformation of coisotropic algebras showing that deformations are governed by suitable coisotropic DGLAs. We define a deformation functor and prove that it commutes with reduction. Finally, we study the obstructions to existence and uniqueness of coisotropic algebras and present some geometric examples.
Quantitative information is omnipresent in the world and a wide range of species has been shown to use quantities to optimize their decisions. While most studies have focused on vertebrates, a growing body of research demonstrates that also insects such as honeybees possess basic quantitative abilities that might aid them in finding profitable flower patches. However, it remains unclear if for insects, quantity is a salient feature relative to other stimulus dimensions, or if it is only used as a “last resort” strategy in case other stimulus dimensions are inconclusive. Here, we tested the stingless bee Trigona fuscipennis, a species representative of a vastly understudied group of tropical pollinators, in a quantity discrimination task. In four experiments, we trained wild, free-flying bees on stimuli that depicted either one or four elements. Subsequently, bees were confronted with a choice between stimuli that matched the training stimulus either in terms of quantity or another stimulus dimension. We found that bees were able to discriminate between the two quantities, but performance differed depending on which quantity was rewarded. Furthermore, quantity was more salient than was shape. However, quantity did not measurably influence the bees' decisions when contrasted with color or surface area. Our results demonstrate that just as honeybees, small-brained stingless bees also possess basic quantitative abilities. Moreover, invertebrate pollinators seem to utilize quantity not only as "last resort" but as a salient stimulus dimension. Our study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on quantitative cognition in invertebrate species and adds to our understanding of the evolution of numerical cognition.
Objectives
To determine sleep bruxism (SB) behavior during five consecutive nights and to identify correlations between SB episodes per hour (SB index) and sleep-time masseter-muscle activity (sMMA).
Material and methods
Thirty-one participants were included in the study. Of these, 10 were classified as sleep bruxers (group SB-1) and nine as non-sleep bruxers (group non-SB). The bruxism status of these 19 patients was identified by means of questionnaires, an assessment of clinical symptoms, and electromyographic/electrocardiographic data (Bruxoff® device). The remaining 12 participants were also identified as bruxers, but based exclusively on data from the Bruxoff device (group SB-2). Data analysis included descriptive statistics and Spearman’s correlation to assess the relationship between the SB index and sMMA.
Results
Participants in group SB-1 showed an overall mean SB index of 3.1 ± 1.6 and a mean total sMMA per night of 62.9 ± 38.3. Participants in group SB-2 had an overall mean SB index of 2.7 ± 1.5 and a mean total sMMA of 56.0 ± 29.3. In the non-SB group, participants showed an overall mean SB index of 0.8 ± 0.5 and a mean total sMMA of 56.8 ± 30.3. Spearman’s correlation yielded values of − 0.27 to 0.71 for the correlation between sMMA and SB index.
Conclusions
The data revealed variable SB activity and the absence of a reliable correlation between sMMA and the SB index.
Clinical relevance
The high variation in SB activity and lack of correlation between sMMA and the SB index should be considered when diagnosing SB.
Trial registration
Clinical Trials [NIH], clinical trial no. NCT03039985.
Objectives
Micro-computed tomography (μ-CT) and histology, the current gold standard methods for assessing the formation of new bone and blood vessels, are invasive and/or destructive. With that in mind, a more conservative tool, dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI), was tested for its accuracy and reproducibility in monitoring neovascularization during bone regeneration. Additionally, the suitability of blood perfusion as a surrogate of the efficacy of osteoplastic materials was evaluated.
Materials and methods
Sixteen rabbits were used and equally divided into four groups, according to the time of euthanasia (2, 3, 4, and 6 weeks after surgery). The animals were submitted to two 8-mm craniotomies that were filled with blood or autogenous bone. Neovascularization was assessed in vivo through DCE-MRI, and bone regeneration, ex vivo, through μ-CT and histology.
Results
The defects could be consistently identified, and their blood perfusion measured through DCE-MRI, there being statistically significant differences within the blood clot group between 3 and 6 weeks (p = 0.029), and between the former and autogenous bone at six weeks (p = 0.017). Nonetheless, no significant correlations between DCE-MRI findings on neovascularization and μ-CT (r =−0.101, 95% CI [−0.445; 0.268]) or histology (r = 0.305, 95% CI [−0.133; 0.644]) findings on bone regeneration were observed.
Conclusions
These results support the hypothesis that DCE-MRI can be used to monitor neovascularization but contradict the premise that it could predict bone regeneration as well.
Objectives
To investigate plaque inhibition of 0.1% octenidine mouthwash (OCT) vs. placebo over 5 days in the absence of mechanical plaque control.
Materials and methods
For this randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel group, multi-center phase 3 study, 201 healthy adults were recruited. After baseline recording of plaque index (PI) and gingival index (GI), collection of salivary samples, and dental prophylaxis, subjects were randomly assigned to OCT or placebo mouthwash in a 3:1 ratio. Rinsing was performed twice daily for 30 s. Colony forming units in saliva were determined before and after the first rinse. At day 5, PI, GI, and tooth discoloration index (DI) were assessed. Non-parametric van Elteren tests were applied with a significance level of p < 0.05.
Results
Treatment with OCT inhibited plaque formation more than treatment with placebo (PI: 0.36 vs. 1.29; p < 0.0001). OCT reduced GI (0.04 vs. placebo 0.00; p = 0.003) and salivary bacterial counts (2.73 vs. placebo 0.24 lgCFU/ml; p < 0.0001). Tooth discoloration was slightly higher under OCT (DI: 0.25 vs. placebo 0.00; p = 0.0011). Mild tongue staining and dysgeusia occurred.
Conclusions
OCT 0.1% mouthwash inhibits plaque formation over 5 days. It therefore can be recommended when regular oral hygiene is temporarily compromised.
Clinical relevance
When individual plaque control is compromised, rinsing with octenidine mouthwash is recommended to maintain healthy oral conditions while side effects are limited.
This paper is devoted to a theoretical and numerical investigation of Nash equilibria and Nash bargaining problems governed by bilinear (input-affine) differential models. These systems with a bilinear state-control structure arise in many applications in, e.g., biology, economics, physics, where competition between different species, agents, and forces needs to be modelled. For this purpose, the concept of Nash equilibria (NE) appears appropriate, and the building blocks of the resulting differential Nash games are different control functions associated with different players that pursue different non-cooperative objectives. In this framework, existence of Nash equilibria is proved and computed with a semi-smooth Newton scheme combined with a relaxation method. Further, a related Nash bargaining (NB) problem is discussed. This aims at determining an improvement of all players’ objectives with respect to the Nash equilibria. Results of numerical experiments successfully demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed NE and NB computational framework.
Rag1\(^{−/−}\) mice, lacking functional B and T cells, have been extensively used as an adoptive transfer model to evaluate neuroinflammation in stroke research. However, it remains unknown whether natural killer (NK) cell development and functions are altered in Rag1\(^{−/−}\) mice as well. This connection has been rarely discussed in previous studies but might have important implications for data interpretation. In contrast, the NOD-Rag1\(^{null}\)IL2rg\(^{null}\) (NRG) mouse model is devoid of NK cells and might therefore eliminate this potential shortcoming. Here, we compare immune-cell frequencies as well as phenotype and effector functions of NK cells in Rag1\(^{−/−}\) and wildtype (WT) mice using flow cytometry and functional in vitro assays. Further, we investigate the effect of Rag1\(^{−/−}\) NK cells in the transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) model using antibody-mediated depletion of NK cells and adoptive transfer to NRG mice in vivo. NK cells in Rag1\(^{−/−}\) were comparable in number and function to those in WT mice. Rag1\(^{−/−}\) mice treated with an anti-NK1.1 antibody developed significantly smaller infarctions and improved behavioral scores. Correspondingly, NRG mice supplemented with NK cells were more susceptible to tMCAO, developing infarctions and neurological deficits similar to Rag1−/− controls. Our results indicate that NK cells from Rag1−/− mice are fully functional and should therefore be considered in the interpretation of immune-cell transfer models in experimental stroke. Fortunately, we identified the NRG mice, as a potentially better-suited transfer model to characterize individual cell subset-mediated neuroinflammation in stroke.
Despite successful recanalization of large-vessel occlusions in acute ischemic stroke, individual patients profit to a varying degree. Dynamic susceptibility-weighted perfusion and dynamic T1-weighted contrast-enhanced blood-brain barrier permeability imaging may help to determine secondary stroke injury and predict clinical outcome. We prospectively performed perfusion and permeability imaging in 38 patients within 24 h after successful mechanical thrombectomy of an occlusion of the middle cerebral artery M1 segment. Perfusion alterations were evaluated on cerebral blood flow maps, blood-brain barrier disruption (BBBD) visually and quantitatively on ktrans maps and hemorrhagic transformation on susceptibility-weighted images. Visual BBBD within the DWI lesion corresponded to a median ktrans elevation (IQR) of 0.77 (0.41–1.4) min−1 and was found in all 7 cases of hypoperfusion (100%), in 10 of 16 cases of hyperperfusion (63%), and in only three of 13 cases with unaffected perfusion (23%). BBBD was significantly associated with hemorrhagic transformation (p < 0.001). While BBBD alone was not a predictor of clinical outcome at 3 months (positive predictive value (PPV) = 0.8 [0.56–0.94]), hypoperfusion occurred more often in patients with unfavorable clinical outcome (PPV = 0.43 [0.10–0.82]) compared to hyperperfusion (PPV = 0.93 [0.68–1.0]) or unaffected perfusion (PPV = 1.0 [0.75–1.0]). We show that combined perfusion and permeability imaging reveals distinct infarct signatures after recanalization, indicating the severity of prior ischemic damage. It assists in predicting clinical outcome and may identify patients at risk of stroke progression.
Metastatic pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma: signs and symptoms related to catecholamine secretion
(2021)
Background
The presence or future development of metastatic pheochromocytomas or paragangliomas (mPPGLs) can be difficult to diagnose or predict at initial presentation. Since production of catecholamines from mPPGLs is different from non-metastatic tumors (non-mPPGLs), this study aimed to clarify whether presenting catecholamine-related signs and symptoms (cSS) might also differ.
Methods
The study included 249 patients, 43 with mPPGL and 206 with non-mPPGL. Clinical data at the time of biochemical diagnosis (i.e. at entry into the study) were used to generate a cumulative score of cSS for each patient.
Results
Patients with mPPGL were significantly younger (43.3 ± 14 vs. 48.9 ± 16.1 years) and included a lower proportion of females (39.5% vs. 60.7%) than patients with non-mPPGLs. Frequencies of signs and symptoms did not differ between the two groups. Patients with mPPGLs had lower (P < 0.001) urinary excretion of epinephrine (3.5 (IQR, 1.9—6.5) µg/day) than those with non-mPPGLs (19.1 (IQR, 4.3—70.2) µg/day). There was no difference in urinary excretion of norepinephrine. In patients with mPPGLs a high cSS score was associated with high urinary excretion of norepinephrine and normetanephrine. In contrast, in patients with non-mPPGLs, a high cSS was associated with high urinary excretion of epinephrine and metanephrine.
Conclusion
Although presenting signs and symptoms were associated with production of norepinephrine in patients with mPPGLs and of epinephrine in patients with non-mPPGLs, there were no differences in signs and symptoms between the two groups. Therefore, consideration of signs and symptoms does not appear helpful for distinguishing patients with and without mPPGLs.
Despite the widespread application of landslide susceptibility analyses, there is hardly any information about whether or not the occurrence of recent landslide events was correctly predicted by the relevant susceptibility maps. Hence, the objective of this study is to evaluate four landslide susceptibility maps retrospectively in a landslide-prone area of the Swabian Alb (Germany). The predictive performance of each susceptibility map is evaluated based on a landslide event triggered by heavy rainfalls in the year 2013. The retrospective evaluation revealed significant variations in the predictive accuracy of the analyzed studies. Both completely erroneous as well as very precise predictions were observed. These differences are less attributed to the applied statistical method and more to the quality and comprehensiveness of the used input data. Furthermore, a literature review of 50 peer-reviewed articles showed that most landslide susceptibility analyses achieve very high validation scores. 73% of the analyzed studies achieved an area under curve (AUC) value of at least 80%. These high validation scores, however, do not reflect the high uncertainty in statistical susceptibility analysis. Thus, the quality assessment of landslide susceptibility maps should not only comprise an index-based, quantitative validation, but also an additional qualitative plausibility check considering local geomorphological characteristics and local landslide mechanisms. Finally, the proposed retrospective evaluation approach cannot only help to assess the quality of susceptibility maps and demonstrate the reliability of such statistical methods, but also identify issues that will enable the susceptibility maps to be improved in the future.
Background
Individuals’ physical and mental health, as well as their chances of returning to work after their ability to work is damaged, can be addressed by medical rehabilitation.
Aim
This study investigated the developmental trends of mental and physical health among patients in medical rehabilitation and the roles of self-efficacy and physical fitness in the development of mental and physical health.
Design
A longitudinal design that included four time-point measurements across 15 months.
Setting
A medical rehabilitation center in Germany.
Population
Participants included 201 patients who were recruited from a medical rehabilitation center.
Methods
To objectively measure physical fitness (lung functioning), oxygen reabsorption at anaerobic threshold (VO2AT) was used, along with several self-report scales.
Results
We found a nonlinear change in mental health among medical rehabilitation patients. The results underscored the importance of medical rehabilitation for patients’ mental health over time. In addition, patients’ physical health was stable over time. The initial level of physical fitness (VO2AT) positively predicted their mental health and kept the trend more stable. Self-efficacy appeared to have a positive relationship with mental health after rehabilitation treatment.
Conclusions
This study revealed a nonlinear change in mental health among medical rehabilitation patients. Self-efficacy was positively related to mental health, and the initial level of physical fitness positively predicted the level of mental health after rehabilitation treatment.
Clinical Rehabilitation
More attention could be given to physical capacity and self-efficacy for improving and maintaining rehabilitants’ mental health.
In this study, we examined the conditional indirect and direct relations of pain-related cognitions to depression. Subjective helplessness was included as presumably mediating the relations of catastrophizing and thought suppression to depression due to motivational deficits. In addition, moderating effects of dispositional action versus state orientation were analyzed, whereby state orientation indicates volitional deficits in coping with distress. The study was based on self-report data from 536 patients with chronic non-specific low back pain at the beginning of inpatient rehabilitation. Moderated mediation analyses were performed. The indirect catastrophizing- and thought suppression-depression relations were (partially) mediated by subjective helplessness; and moderated by failure-related action versus state orientation. Moreover, action versus state orientation moderated the direct relation of thought suppression to depression. Results suggest that catastrophizing, thought suppression, and subjective helplessness do not lead to depression unless associated with self-regulatory inability (i.e., state orientation). In contrast, action-oriented patients more effectively self-regulate pain-related emotions, disengage from rumination, and distract from pain and thus better avoid the debilitating effects of negative pain-related cognitions on depression. Future research and treatment may more strongly focus on the role of motivational and volitional deficits underlying learned helplessness and depression in chronic pain.
Purpose
The subclassification of adrenal cancers according to the WHO classification in ordinary, myxoid, oncocytic, and sarcomatoid as well as pediatric types is well established, but the criteria for each subtype are not sufficiently determined and the relative frequency of the different types of adrenal cancers has not been studied in large cohorts. Therefore, our large collection of surgically removed adrenal cancers should be reviewed o establish the criteria for the subtypes and to find out the frequency of the various types.
Methods
In our series of 521 adrenal cancers the scoring systems of Weiss et al., Hough et al., van Slooten et al. and the new Helsinki score system were used for the ordinary type of cancer (97% of our series) and the myxoid type (0.8%). For oncocytic carcinomas (2%), the scoring system of Bisceglia et al. was applied.
Results
Discrepancies between benign and malignant diagnoses from the first thee classical scoring systems are not rare (22% in our series) and could be resolved by the Helsinki score especially by Ki-67 index (more than 8% unequivocally malignant). Since all our cancer cases are positive in the Helsinki score, this system can replace the three elder systems. For identification of sarcomatoid cancer as rarest type in our series (0.2%), the scoring systems are not practical but additional immunostainings used for soft tissue tumors and in special cases molecular pathology are necessary to differentiate these cancers from adrenal sarcomas. According to the relative frequencies of the different subtypes of adrenal cancers the main type is the far most frequent (97%) followed by the oncocytic type (2%), the myxoid type (0.8%) and the very rare sarcomatoid type (0.2%).
Conclusions
The Helsinki score is the best for differentiating adrenal carcinomas of the main, the oncocytic, and the myxoid type in routine work. Additional scoring systems for these carcinomas are generally not any longer necessary. Signs of proliferation (mitoses and Ki-67 index) and necroses are the most important criteria for diagnosis of malignancy.
Context
Primary aldosteronism (PA) is the most frequent form of endocrine hypertension. Besides its deleterious impact on cardiovascular target organ damage, PA is considered to cause osteoporosis.
Patients and methods
We assessed bone turnover in a subset of 36 postmenopausal women with PA. 18 patients had unilateral PA and were treated by adrenalectomy, whereas 18 patients had bilateral PA and received mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) therapy respectively. 18 age- and BMI-matched females served as controls. To estimate bone remodeling, we measured the bone turnover markers intact procollagen 1 N-terminal propeptide, bone alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin and tartrate resistant acid phosphatase 5b in plasma by chemiluminescent immunoassays at time of diagnosis and one year after initiation of treatment.
Study design
Observational longitudinal cohort study.
Setting
Tertiary care hospital.
Results
Compared with controls, patients with PA had mildly elevated osteocalcin at baseline (p = 0.013), while the other bone markers were comparable between both groups. There were no differences between the unilateral and the bilateral PA subgroup. One year after initiation of MRA treatment with spironolactone bone resorption and bone formation markers had significantly decreased in patients with bilateral PA. In contrast, patients adrenalectomized because of unilateral PA showed no significant change of bone turnover markers.
Conclusion
This study shows that aldosterone excess in postmenopausal women with PA is not associated with a relevant increase of bone turnover markers at baseline. However, we observed a significant decrease of bone markers in patients treated with spironolactone, but not in patients treated by adrenalectomy.
Purpose
Pheochromocytomas and Paragangliomas (PPGL) result in chronic catecholamine excess and serious health complications. A recent study obtained a metabolic signature in plasma from PPGL patients; however, its targeted nature may have generated an incomplete picture and a broader approach could provide additional insights. We aimed to characterize the plasma metabolome of PPGL patients before and after surgery, using an untargeted approach, and to broaden the scope of the investigated metabolic impact of these tumors.
Design
A cohort of 36 PPGL patients was investigated. Blood plasma samples were collected before and after surgical tumor removal, in association with clinical and tumor characteristics.
Methods
Plasma samples were analyzed using untargeted nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy metabolomics. The data were evaluated using a combination of uni- and multi-variate statistical methods.
Results
Before surgery, patients with a nonadrenergic tumor could be distinguished from those with an adrenergic tumor based on their metabolic profiles. Tyrosine levels were significantly higher in patients with high compared to those with low BMI. Comparing subgroups of pre-operative samples with their post-operative counterparts, we found a metabolic signature that included ketone bodies, glucose, organic acids, methanol, dimethyl sulfone and amino acids. Three signals with unclear identities were found to be affected.
Conclusions
Our study suggests that the pathways of glucose and ketone body homeostasis are affected in PPGL patients. BMI-related metabolite levels were also found to be altered, potentially linking muscle atrophy to PPGL. At baseline, patient metabolomes could be discriminated based on their catecholamine phenotype.
Therapy options for adrenal insufficiency and recommendations for the management of adrenal crisis
(2021)
Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is a life-threatening condition requiring life-long glucocorticoid (GC) substitution therapy, as well as stress adaptation to prevent adrenal crises. The number of individuals with primary and secondary adrenal insufficiency in Europe is estimated to be 20–50/100.000. A growing number of AI cases are due to side effects of GC treatment used in different treatment strategies for cancer and to immunotherapy in cancer treatment. The benefit of hormone replacement therapy is evident but long-term adverse effects may arise due to the non-physiological GC doses and treatment regimens used. Given multiple GC replacement formulations available comprising short-acting, intermediate, long-acting and novel modified-release hydrocortisone as well as subcutaneous formulations, this review offers a concise summary on the latest therapeutic improvements for treatment of AI and prevention of adrenal crises. As availability of various glucocorticoid formulations and access to expert centers across Europe varies widely, European Reference Networks on rare endocrine conditions aim at harmonizing treatment and ensure access to specialized patient care for individual case-by-case treatment decisions. To improve the availability across Europe to cost effective oral and parenteral formulations of hydrocortisone will save lives.
Differences between immunotherapy-induced and primary hypophysitis—a multicenter retrospective study
(2022)
Objective
Immune checkpoint inhibitors can cause various immune-related adverse events including secondary hypophysitis. We compared clinical characteristics of immunotherapy-induced hypophysitis (IIH) and primary hypophysitis (PH)
Design
Retrospective multicenter cohort study including 56 patients with IIH and 60 patients with PH.
Methods
All patients underwent extensive endocrine testing. Data on age, gender, symptoms, endocrine dysfunction, MRI, immunotherapeutic agents and autoimmune diseases were collected.
Results
Median time of follow-up was 18 months in IIH and 69 months in PH. The median time from initiation of immunotherapy to IIH diagnosis was 3 months. IIH affected males more frequently than PH (p < 0.001) and led to more impaired pituitary axes in males (p < 0.001). The distribution of deficient adenohypophysial axes was comparable between both entities, however, central hypocortisolism was more frequent (p < 0.001) and diabetes insipidus considerably less frequent in IIH (p < 0.001). Symptoms were similar except that visual impairment occurred more rarely in IIH (p < 0.001). 20 % of IIH patients reported no symptoms at all. Regarding MRI, pituitary stalk thickening was less frequent in IIH (p = 0.009). Concomitant autoimmune diseases were more prevalent in PH patients before the diagnosis of hypophysitis (p = 0.003) and more frequent in IIH during follow-up (p = 0.002).
Conclusions
Clinically, IIH and PH present with similar symptoms. Diabetes insipidus very rarely occurs in IIH. Central hypocortisolism, in contrast, is a typical feature of IIH. Preexisting autoimmunity seems not to be indicative of developing IIH.
Systemic chemotherapy of pediatric recurrent ependymomas: results from the German HIT-REZ studies
(2021)
Purpose
Survival in recurrent ependymoma (EPN) depends mainly on the extent of resection achieved. When complete resection is not feasible, chemotherapy is often used to extend progression-free and overall survival. However, no consistent effect of chemotherapy on survival has been found in patients with recurrent EPN.
Methods
Systemic chemotherapeutic treatment of 138 patients enrolled in the German HIT-REZ-studies was analyzed. Survival depending on the use of chemotherapy, disease-stabilization rates (RR), duration of response (DOR) and time to progression (TTP) were estimated.
Results
Median age at first recurrence was 7.6 years (IQR: 4.0–13.6). At first recurrence, median PFS and OS were 15.3 (CI 13.3–20.0) and 36.9 months (CI 29.7–53.4), respectively. The Hazard Ratio for the use of chemotherapy in local recurrences in a time-dependent Cox-regression analysis was 0.99 (CI 0.74–1.33). Evaluable responses for 140 applied chemotherapies were analyzed, of which sirolimus showed the best RR (50%) and longest median TTP [11.51 (CI 3.98; 14.0) months] in nine patients, with the strongest impact found when sirolimus was used as a monotherapy. Seven patients with progression-free survival > 12 months after subtotal/no-resection facilitated by chemotherapy were found. No definitive survival advantage for any drug in a specific molecularly defined EPN type was found.
Conclusion
No survival advantage for the general use of chemotherapy in recurrent EPN was found. In cases with incomplete resection, chemotherapy was able to extend survival in individual cases. Sirolimus showed the best RR, DOR and TTP out of all drugs analyzed and may warrant further investigation.
Strategies to Enhance Retention in a Cohort Study Among Adults of Turkish Descent Living in Berlin
(2022)
Retention is important for statistical power and external validity in long-term cohort studies. The aims of our study were to evaluate different retention strategies within a cohort study of adults of Turkish descent in Berlin, Germany, and to compare participants and non-participants. In 2011–2012, a population-based study was conducted among adults of Turkish descent to primarily examine recruitment strategies. 6 years later, the participants were re-contacted and invited to complete a self-report questionnaire regarding their health status, health care utilization, and satisfaction with medical services. The retention strategy comprised letters in both German and Turkish, phone calls, and home visits (by bilingual staff). We calculated the response rate and retention rate, using definitions of the American Association for Public Opinion Research, as well as the relative retention rate for each level of contact. Associations of baseline recruitment strategy, sociodemographic, migration-related and health-related factors with retention were investigated by logistic regression analysis. Of 557 persons contacted, 249 (44.7%) completed the questionnaire. This was 50.1% of those whose contact information was available. The relative retention rate was lowest for phone calls (8.9%) and highest for home visits (18.4%). Participants were more often non-smokers and German citizens than non-participants. For all remaining factors, no association with retention was found. In this study, among adults of Turkish descent, the retention rate increased considerably with every additional level of contact. Implementation of comprehensive retention strategies provided by culturally matched study personnel may lead to higher validity and statistical power in studies on migrant health issues.
Purpose
Biallelic pathogenic NBAS variants manifest as a multisystem disorder with heterogeneous clinical phenotypes such as recurrent acute liver failure, growth retardation, and susceptibility to infections. This study explores how NBAS-associated disease affects cells of the innate and adaptive immune system.
Methods
Clinical and laboratory parameters were combined with functional multi-parametric immunophenotyping methods in fifteen NBAS-deficient patients to discover possible alterations in their immune system.
Results
Our study revealed reduced absolute numbers of mature CD56dim natural killer (NK) cells. Notably, the residual NK cell population in NBAS-deficient patients exerted a lower potential for activation and degranulation in response to K562 target cells, suggesting an NK cell–intrinsic role for NBAS in the release of cytotoxic granules. NBAS-deficient NK cell activation and degranulation was normalized upon pre-activation by IL-2 in vitro, suggesting that functional impairment was reversible. In addition, we observed a reduced number of naïve B cells in the peripheral blood associated with hypogammaglobulinemia.
Conclusion
In summary, we demonstrate that pathogenic biallelic variants in NBAS are associated with dysfunctional NK cells as well as impaired adaptive humoral immunity.
Amantadine: reappraisal of the timeless diamond—target updates and novel therapeutic potentials
(2021)
The aim of the current review was to provide a new, in-depth insight into possible pharmacological targets of amantadine to pave the way to extending its therapeutic use to further indications beyond Parkinson’s disease symptoms and viral infections. Considering amantadine’s affinities in vitro and the expected concentration at targets at therapeutic doses in humans, the following primary targets seem to be most plausible: aromatic amino acids decarboxylase, glial-cell derived neurotrophic factor, sigma-1 receptors, phosphodiesterases, and nicotinic receptors. Further three targets could play a role to a lesser extent: NMDA receptors, 5-HT3 receptors, and potassium channels. Based on published clinical studies, traumatic brain injury, fatigue [e.g., in multiple sclerosis (MS)], and chorea in Huntington’s disease should be regarded potential, encouraging indications. Preclinical investigations suggest amantadine’s therapeutic potential in several further indications such as: depression, recovery after spinal cord injury, neuroprotection in MS, and cutaneous pain. Query in the database http://www.clinicaltrials.gov reveals research interest in several further indications: cancer, autism, cocaine abuse, MS, diabetes, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, obesity, and schizophrenia.
Mit der Entdeckung altersabhängiger epigenetischer Veränderungen, der DNA-Methylierung (DNAm), hat sich eine neue Möglichkeit aufgezeigt, das Alter eines Individuums zu schätzen. Die Methode wurde intensiv erforscht und ihre Anwendung in der forensischen Fallarbeit durch die Aktualisierung des § 81e der Strafprozessordnung (StPO) in Deutschland reguliert. Zur Untersuchung des DNAm-Grades müssen neue Techniken etabliert und validiert werden. Dies macht die Prüfung der Vergleichbarkeit von Messergebnissen aus verschiedenen forensischen Laboren erforderlich.
Hierzu führte die Arbeitsgruppe „Molekulare Altersschätzung“ der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Rechtsmedizin (DGRM) im Winter 2019/2020 den 2. Ringversuch (RV) zur quantitativen DNAm-Analyse mithilfe der Mini- und der Pyrosequenzierung durch. Dieser basierte auf den Erfahrungen des 1. RV 2018/2019, dessen Ergebnisse in dieser Ausgabe ebenfalls vorgestellt werden. Die aktuelle Studie umfasst Analyseergebnisse aus 12 Laboren (ingesamt 14 teilnehmende Labore), von denen einige beide Methoden angewandt haben. Zusätzlich führten 4 Labore eine Altersschätzung an den RV-Proben mit eigenen Markerkombinationen und Modellen durch. Da diese auf unterschiedlichen Referenzdaten und Markerkombinationen beruhen, erfolgte kein qualitativer Vergleich der Modelle, sondern das grundsätzliche Potenzial der Methodik wurde verdeutlicht. Ziele des RV waren die Evaluierung der Vergleichbarkeit der DNAm-Messungen und die Bewertung möglicher Einflussfaktoren, wie Extraktionsmethode und verwendetes Gerät.
Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass sich die gemessenen DNAm-Werte der untersuchten Marker sowohl zwischen Mini- und Pyrosequenzierung als auch innerhalb der jeweiligen Methode zwischen den Laboren unterscheiden können, sodass mit Schwankungen gerechnet werden muss.
Die quantitative Analyse der relativen DNA-Methylierung gilt als eine der vielversprechendsten Methoden der molekularen Altersschätzung. Viele Studien der letzten Jahre identifizierten geeignete Positionen im Genom, deren DNA-Methylierung sich altersabhängig verändert. Für den Einsatz dieser Methode in der Routine- bzw. Fallarbeit ist es von großer Bedeutung, angewandte Analysetechniken zu validieren. Als ein Teilaspekt dieser Validierung sollte die Vergleichbarkeit der Analyseergebnisse zur DNA-Methylierung mithilfe der Mini- und Pyrosequenzierung zwischen verschiedenen Laboren evaluiert werden. Die Arbeitsgruppe „Molekulare Altersschätzung“ der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Rechtsmedizin (DGRM) führte hierzu den ersten, technischen Ringversuch durch, der 4 Positionen in den Genen PDE4C, EDARADD, SST und KLF14 umfasste. Diese Marker waren in vorangegangenen Studien als altersabhängige Biomarker charakterisiert worden. Am Ringversuch nahmen 12 Labore teil, wobei jedes die Wahl zwischen der Minisequenzierung und/oder der Pyrosequenzierung für die quantitative Methylierungsanalyse hatte. Jedem teilnehmenden Labor wurden Blut- und Speichelproben von 3 Personen unterschiedlichen Alters übersandt. Die Wahl der Reagenzien für die Probenbearbeitung wurde den Teilnehmern freigestellt.
Die Ergebnisse der Minisequenzierung zeigten systematische Abweichungen zwischen den Laboren, die am ehesten auf die Verwendung unterschiedlicher Reagenzien und Analyseplattformen zurückzuführen sein können. Die Resultate der Pyrosequenzierung hingegen wiesen nicht auf systematische Abweichungen zwischen den Laboren hin, hier zeigte sich jedoch die Tendenz einer markerabhängigen Abweichung. Darüber hinaus konnten Unterschiede hinsichtlich technischer Probleme zwischen Laboren mit mehr Erfahrung in der jeweiligen Sequenzierungsmethode und Laboren mit weniger Erfahrung festgestellt werden. Sowohl die Beobachtung von systematischen als auch die von markerabhängigen Abweichungen lässt den Schluss zu, dass eine Übertragung von Analysemethoden zwischen Laboren grundsätzlich möglich ist, eine Anpassung des jeweiligen Modells zur Altersschätzung jedoch notwendig sein kann.
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified more than 170 breast cancer susceptibility loci. Here we hypothesize that some risk-associated variants might act in non-breast tissues, specifically adipose tissue and immune cells from blood and spleen. Using expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) reported in these tissues, we identify 26 previously unreported, likely target genes of overall breast cancer risk variants, and 17 for estrogen receptor (ER)-negative breast cancer, several with a known immune function. We determine the directional effect of gene expression on disease risk measured based on single and multiple eQTL. In addition, using a gene-based test of association that considers eQTL from multiple tissues, we identify seven (and four) regions with variants associated with overall (and ER-negative) breast cancer risk, which were not reported in previous GWAS. Further investigation of the function of the implicated genes in breast and immune cells may provide insights into the etiology of breast cancer.
The mechanisms behind carbon dioxide (CO2) dependency in non-autotrophic bacterial isolates are unclear. Here we show that the Staphylococcus aureus mpsAB operon, known to play a role in membrane potential generation, is crucial for growth at atmospheric CO2 levels. The genes mpsAB can complement an Escherichia coli carbonic anhydrase (CA) mutant, and CA from E. coli can complement the S. aureus delta-mpsABC mutant. In comparison with the wild type, S. aureus mps mutants produce less hemolytic toxin and are less virulent in animal models of infection. Homologs of mpsA and mpsB are widespread among bacteria and are often found adjacent to each other on the genome. We propose that MpsAB represents a dissolved inorganic carbon transporter, or bicarbonate concentrating system, possibly acting as a sodium bicarbonate cotransporter.
Traumatic spinal cord injuries result in impairment or even complete loss of motor, sensory and autonomic functions. Recovery after complete spinal cord injury is very limited even in animal models receiving elaborate combinatorial treatments. Recently, we described an implantable microsystem (microconnector) for low-pressure re-adaption of severed spinal stumps in rat. Here we investigate the long-term structural and functional outcome following microconnector implantation after complete spinal cord transection. Re-adaptation of spinal stumps supports formation of a tissue bridge, glial and vascular cell invasion, motor axon regeneration and myelination, resulting in partial recovery of motor-evoked potentials and a thus far unmet improvement of locomotor behaviour. The recovery lasts for at least 5 months. Despite a late partial decline, motor recovery remains significantly superior to controls. Our findings demonstrate that microsystem technology can foster long-lasting functional improvement after complete spinal injury, providing a new and effective tool for combinatorial therapies.
The NEDD8-activating enzyme (NAE) inhibitor MLN4924 inhibits cullin-RING ubiquitin ligase complexes including the SKP1-cullin-F-box E3 ligase βTrCP. MLN4924 therefore inhibits also the βTrCP-dependent activation of the classical and the alternative NFĸB pathway. In this work, we found that a subgroup of multiple myeloma cell lines (e.g., RPMI-8226, MM.1S, KMS-12BM) and about half of the primary myeloma samples tested are sensitized to TNF-induced cell death by MLN4924. This correlated with MLN4924-mediated inhibition of TNF-induced activation of the classical NFκB pathway and reduced the efficacy of TNF-induced TNFR1 signaling complex formation. Interestingly, binding studies revealed a straightforward correlation between cell surface TNFR1 expression in multiple myeloma cell lines and their sensitivity for MLN4924/TNF-induced cell death. The cell surface expression levels of TNFR1 in the investigated MM cell lines largely correlated with TNFR1 mRNA expression. This suggests that the variable levels of cell surface expression of TNFR1 in myeloma cell lines are decisive for TNF/MLN4924 sensitivity. Indeed, introduction of TNFR1 into TNFR1-negative TNF/MLN4924-resistant KMS-11BM cells, was sufficient to sensitize this cell line for TNF/MLN4924-induced cell death. Thus, MLN4924 might be especially effective in myeloma patients with TNFR1+ myeloma cells and a TNFhigh tumor microenvironment.
Meiotic chromosomes undergo rapid prophase movements, which are thought to facilitate the formation of inter-homologue recombination intermediates that underlie synapsis, crossing over and segregation. The meiotic telomere complex (MAJIN, TERB1, TERB2) tethers telomere ends to the nuclear envelope and transmits cytoskeletal forces via the LINC complex to drive these rapid movements. Here, we report the molecular architecture of the meiotic telomere complex through the crystal structure of MAJIN-TERB2, together with light and X-ray scattering studies of wider complexes. The MAJIN-TERB2 2:2 hetero-tetramer binds strongly to DNA and is tethered through long flexible linkers to the inner nuclear membrane and two TRF1-binding 1:1 TERB2-TERB1 complexes. Our complementary structured illumination microscopy studies and biochemical findings reveal a telomere attachment mechanism in which MAJIN-TERB2-TERB1 recruits telomere-bound TRF1, which is then displaced during pachytene, allowing MAJIN-TERB2-TERB1 to bind telomeric DNA and form a mature attachment plate.
Skeletal dysplasia with multiple dislocations are severe disorders characterized by dislocations of large joints and short stature. The majority of them have been linked to pathogenic variants in genes encoding glycosyltransferases, sulfotransferases or epimerases required for glycosaminoglycan synthesis. Using exome sequencing, we identify homozygous mutations in SLC10A7 in six individuals with skeletal dysplasia with multiple dislocations and amelogenesis imperfecta. SLC10A7 encodes a 10-transmembrane-domain transporter located at the plasma membrane. Functional studies in vitro demonstrate that SLC10A7 mutations reduce SLC10A7 protein expression. We generate a Slc10a7−/− mouse model, which displays shortened long bones, growth plate disorganization and tooth enamel anomalies, recapitulating the human phenotype. Furthermore, we identify decreased heparan sulfate levels in Slc10a7−/− mouse cartilage and patient fibroblasts. Finally, we find an abnormal N-glycoprotein electrophoretic profile in patient blood samples. Together, our findings support the involvement of SLC10A7 in glycosaminoglycan synthesis and specifically in skeletal development.
Natural light harvesting as well as optoelectronic and photovoltaic devices depend on efficient transport of energy following photoexcitation. Using common spectroscopic methods, however, it is challenging to discriminate one-exciton dynamics from multi-exciton interactions that arise when more than one excitation is present in the system. Here we introduce a coherent two-dimensional spectroscopic method that provides a signal only in case that the presence of one exciton influences the behavior of another one. Exemplarily, we monitor exciton diffusion by annihilation in a perylene bisimide-based J-aggregate. We determine quantitatively the exciton diffusion constant from exciton–exciton-interaction 2D spectra and reconstruct the annihilation-free dynamics for large pump powers. The latter enables for ultrafast spectroscopy at much higher intensities than conventionally possible and thus improves signal-to-noise ratios for multichromophore systems; the former recovers spatio–temporal dynamics for a broad range of phenomena in which exciton interactions are present.
Fanconi anemia (FA) is a genetically heterogeneous disorder with 22 disease-causing genes reported to date. In some FA genes, monoallelic mutations have been found to be associated with breast cancer risk, while the risk associations of others remain unknown. The gene for FA type C, FANCC, has been proposed as a breast cancer susceptibility gene based on epidemiological and sequencing studies. We used the Oncoarray project to genotype two truncating FANCC variants (p.R185X and p.R548X) in 64,760 breast cancer cases and 49,793 controls of European descent. FANCC mutations were observed in 25 cases (14 with p.R185X, 11 with p.R548X) and 26 controls (18 with p.R185X, 8 with p.R548X). There was no evidence of an association with the risk of breast cancer, neither overall (odds ratio 0.77, 95%CI 0.44–1.33, p = 0.4) nor by histology, hormone receptor status, age or family history. We conclude that the breast cancer risk association of these two FANCC variants, if any, is much smaller than for BRCA1, BRCA2 or PALB2 mutations. If this applies to all truncating variants in FANCC it would suggest there are differences between FA genes in their roles on breast cancer risk and demonstrates the merit of large consortia for clarifying risk associations of rare variants.
Auxin is a key regulator of plant growth and development, but the causal relationship between hormone transport and root responses remains unresolved. Here we describe auxin uptake, together with early steps in signaling, in Arabidopsis root hairs. Using intracellular microelectrodes we show membrane depolarization, in response to IAA in a concentration- and pH-dependent manner. This depolarization is strongly impaired in aux1 mutants, indicating that AUX1 is the major transporter for auxin uptake in root hairs. Local intracellular auxin application triggers Ca2+ signals that propagate as long-distance waves between root cells and modulate their auxin responses. AUX1-mediated IAA transport, as well as IAA- triggered calcium signals, are blocked by treatment with the SCFTIR1/AFB - inhibitor auxinole. Further, they are strongly reduced in the tir1afb2afb3 and the cngc14 mutant. Our study reveals that the AUX1 transporter, the SCFTIR1/AFB receptor and the CNGC14 Ca2+ channel, mediate fast auxin signaling in roots.
Surgical extrusion is a recognised treatment option for teeth that have insufficient coronal tooth structure remaining due to deep caries, resorption or traumatic injury. However, the technique has not been widely adopted, arguably because extraction of a severely compromised tooth may be difficult to achieve in a gentle and predictable way. In this paper, we present our novel approach to surgical extrusion and subsequent management of teeth using a vertical extraction system (Benex), which has become the method of choice in the authors' practice for many teeth that would otherwise be deemed unrestorable. We describe the clinical procedure in detail and discuss the advantages and disadvantages compared to alternative approaches, including surgical crown lengthening and orthodontic extrusion.
C9ORF72 mutations are the most common cause of familial frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). MRI studies have investigated structural changes in C9ORF72-associated FTLD (C9FTLD) and provided first insights about a prominent involvement of the thalamus and the cerebellum. Our multicenter, 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography study of 22 mutation carriers with FTLD, 22 matched non-carriers with FTLD, and 23 cognitively healthy controls provided valuable insights into functional changes in C9FTLD: compared to non-carriers, mutation carriers showed a significant reduction of glucose metabolism in both thalami, underscoring the key role of the thalamus in C9FTLD. Thalamic metabolism did not correlate with disease severity, duration of disease, or the presence of psychotic symptoms. Against our expectations we could not demonstrate a cerebellar hypometabolism in carriers or non-carriers. Future imaging and neuropathological studies in large patient cohorts are required to further elucidate the central role of the thalamus in C9FTLD.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects 1 in ~350 individuals. Genetic association studies have established ALS as a multifactorial disease with heritability estimated at ~61%, and recent studies show a prominent role for rare variation in its genetic architecture. To identify rare variants associated with disease onset we performed exome array genotyping in 4,244 cases and 3,106 controls from European cohorts. In this largest exome-wide study of rare variants in ALS to date, we performed single-variant association testing, gene-based burden, and exome-wide individual set-unique burden (ISUB) testing to identify single or aggregated rare variation that modifies disease risk. In single-variant testing no variants reached exome-wide significance, likely due to limited statistical power. Gene-based burden testing of rare non-synonymous and loss-of-function variants showed NEK1 as the top associated gene. ISUB analysis did not show an increased exome-wide burden of deleterious variants in patients, possibly suggesting a more region-specific role for rare variation. Complete summary statistics are released publicly. This study did not implicate new risk loci, emphasizing the immediate need for future large-scale collaborations in ALS that will expand available sample sizes, increase genome coverage, and improve our ability to detect rare variants associated to ALS.
Psychiatric disorders are thought to have a complex genetic pathology consisting of interplay of common and rare variation. Traditionally, pedigrees are used to shed light on the latter only, while here we discuss the application of polygenic risk scores to also highlight patterns of common genetic risk. We analyze polygenic risk scores for psychiatric disorders in a large pedigree (n ~ 260) in which 30% of family members suffer from major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder. Studying patterns of assortative mating and anticipation, it appears increased polygenic risk is contributed by affected individuals who married into the family, resulting in an increasing genetic risk over generations. This may explain the observation of anticipation in mood disorders, whereby onset is earlier and the severity increases over the generations of a family. Joint analyses of rare and common variation may be a powerful way to understand the familial genetics of psychiatric disorders.
MYC paralogs are frequently activated in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) but represent poor drug targets. Thus, a detailed mapping of MYC-paralog-specific vulnerabilities may help to develop effective therapies for SCLC patients. Using a unique cellular CRISPR activation model, we uncover that, in contrast to MYCN and MYCL, MYC represses BCL2 transcription via interaction with MIZ1 and DNMT3a. The resulting lack of BCL2 expression promotes sensitivity to cell cycle control inhibition and dependency on MCL1. Furthermore, MYC activation leads to heightened apoptotic priming, intrinsic genotoxic stress and susceptibility to DNA damage checkpoint inhibitors. Finally, combined AURK and CHK1 inhibition substantially prolongs the survival of mice bearing MYC-driven SCLC beyond that of combination chemotherapy. These analyses uncover MYC-paralog-specific regulation of the apoptotic machinery with implications for genotype-based selection of targeted therapeutics in SCLC patients.
Animals must slow or halt locomotion to integrate sensory inputs or to change direction. In Caenorhabditis elegans, the GABAergic and peptidergic neuron RIS mediates developmentally timed quiescence. Here, we show RIS functions additionally as a locomotion stop neuron. RIS optogenetic stimulation caused acute and persistent inhibition of locomotion and pharyngeal pumping, phenotypes requiring FLP-11 neuropeptides and GABA. RIS photoactivation allows the animal to maintain its body posture by sustaining muscle tone, yet inactivating motor neuron oscillatory activity. During locomotion, RIS axonal Ca2+ signals revealed functional compartmentalization: Activity in the nerve ring process correlated with locomotion stop, while activity in a branch correlated with induced reversals. GABA was required to induce, and FLP-11 neuropeptides were required to sustain locomotion stop. RIS attenuates neuronal activity and inhibits movement, possibly enabling sensory integration and decision making, and exemplifies dual use of one cell across development in a compact nervous system.
Obdach, Speisung und Heilung. Zur Geschichte des Seelhauses an der Juliuspromenade in Würzburg
(2023)
Das 1379 gestiftete Seelhaus befindet sich seit 1587 an der heutigen Juliuspromenade in Würzburg. Ursprünglich zur Beherbergung bedürftiger Reisender eingerichtet, entwickelte es sich seit dem 17. Jahrhundert zum Alterssitz für Mägde und Hausangestellte, bevor es im 19. Jahrhundert ganz aufgelöst wurde. Durch den Kauf der Hausnummern 9-11 durch die Oberzeller Schwestern 1927 erlebte sein karitativer Auftrag bis zur Zerstörung am 16. März 1945 eine Wiederbelebung.
Background: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) imposes a significant burden on Westernized regions. The Western diet, high in salt intake, significantly contributes to disease development. However, there are a lack of data on salt literacy and salt intake among MASLD patients in Germany. Our study aims to analyze daily salt intake and salt-intake-related behavior in MASLD patients. Methods: 234 MASLD patients were prospectively included. Daily salt intake and salt-intake-related behavior were assessed via a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ—DEGS) and a salt questionnaire (SINU). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS. Results: Mean daily salt intake was higher in men than in women (7.3 ± 5 g/d vs. 5.3 ± 4 g/d; p < 0.001). There was significant agreement between increased daily salt intake (6 g/d) and the behavioral salt index (SI) (p < 0.001). Men exhibited higher SI scores compared to women, indicating lower awareness of salt in everyday life. Multivariate analysis identified specific salt-intake-related behaviors impacting daily salt consumption. Conclusions: Our study reveals a strong link between daily salt intake and salt-intake-related behavior, highlighting sex-specific differences in an MASLD cohort. To enhance patient care in high-cardiovascular-risk populations, specific behavioral approaches may be considered, including salt awareness, to improve adherence to lifestyle changes, particularly in male patients.
To define frailty in older cancer patients, the aim of this study was to assess the geriatric status and quality of life (QoL) aspects in patients suffering from recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (r/m HNSCC) under palliative treatment. A comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) was performed on 21 r/m HNSCC patients at two defined assessments, and the QoL aspects and the impact of descriptive data were evaluated. The Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, Spearman’s rho correlation, and two-way mixed ANOVA were used for statistical analysis. All patients were found to be “frail”. Pain, fatigue, and the burden of illness were the highest-rated symptoms. Oral function and orofacial appearance were highly impaired. A significant impact of descriptive data on the CGA and QoL results was found (all p ≤ 0.05). Thus, the CGA results revealed high frailty, severe comorbidities, and high impairments in QoL aspects. The CGA and QoL results were negatively affected by the primary HNSCC treatment approach, the need for prosthetic treatment, and worse oral functional capacity. Therefore, frailty in r/m HNSCC patients seems to be multidimensional. The evaluation of the CGA and QoL aspects in r/m HNSCC patients can be recommended to detect special needs, organize aftercare, and improve the support for frail and vulnerable cancer patients to create a multidisciplinary treatment approach.
Sufficiently disordered metals display systematic deviations from the behavior predicted by semi-classical Boltzmann transport theory. Here the scattering events from impurities or thermal excitations can no longer be considered as additive-independent processes, as asserted by Matthiessen’s rule following from this picture. In the intermediate region between the regime of good conduction and that of insulation, one typically finds a change of sign of the temperature coefficient of resistivity, even at elevated temperature spanning ambient conditions, a phenomenology that was first identified by Mooij in 1973. Traditional weak coupling approaches to identify relevant corrections to the Boltzmann picture focused on long-distance interference effects such as “weak localization”, which are especially important in low dimensions (1D and 2D) and close to the zero-temperature limit. Here we formulate a strong-coupling approach to tackle the interplay of strong disorder and lattice deformations (phonons) in bulk three-dimensional metals at high temperatures. We identify a polaronic mechanism of strong disorder renormalization, which describes how a lattice locally responds to the relevant impurity potential. This mechanism, which quantitatively captures the Mooij regime, is physically distinct and unrelated to Anderson localization, but realizes early seminal ideas of Anderson himself, concerning the interplay of disorder and lattice deformations.
AbstractWater oxidation catalysis is a key step for sustainable fuel production by water splitting into hydrogen and oxygen. The synthesis of a novel coordination oligomer based on four Ru(bda) (bda = 2,2′‐bipyridine‐6,6′‐dicarboxylate) centers, three 4,4′‐bipyridine (4,4′‐bpy) linkers, and two 4‐picoline (4‐pic) end caps is reported. The monodispersity of this tetranuclear compound is characterized by NMR techniques. Heterogeneous electrochemical water oxidation after immobilization on multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) shows catalytic performance unprecedented for this compound class, with a turnover frequency (TOF) of 133 s\(^{−1}\) and a turnover number (TON) of 4.89 × 10\(^6\), at a current density of 43.8 mA cm\(^{−2}\) and a potential of 1.45 V versus normal hydrogen electrode (NHE).
The Essential Climate Variable (ECV) Permafrost is currently undergoing strong changes due to rising ground and air temperatures. Surface movement, forming characteristic landforms such as rock glaciers, is one key indicator for mountain permafrost. Monitoring this movement can indicate ongoing changes in permafrost; therefore, rock glacier velocity (RGV) has recently been added as an ECV product. Despite the increased understanding of rock glacier dynamics in recent years, most observations are either limited in terms of the spatial coverage or temporal resolution. According to recent studies, Sentinel-1 (C-band) Differential SAR Interferometry (DInSAR) has potential for monitoring RGVs at high spatial and temporal resolutions. However, the suitability of DInSAR for the detection of heterogeneous small-scale spatial patterns of rock glacier velocities was never at the center of these studies. We address this shortcoming by generating and analyzing Sentinel-1 DInSAR time series over five years to detect small-scale displacement patterns of five high alpine permafrost environments located in the Central European Alps on a weekly basis at a range of a few millimeters. Our approach is based on a semi-automated procedure using open-source programs (SNAP, pyrate) and provides East-West displacement and elevation change with a ground sampling distance of 5 m. Comparison with annual movement derived from orthophotos and unpiloted aerial vehicle (UAV) data shows that DInSAR covers about one third of the total movement, which represents the proportion of the year suited for DInSAR, and shows good spatial agreement (Pearson R: 0.42–0.74, RMSE: 4.7–11.6 cm/a) except for areas with phase unwrapping errors. Moreover, the DInSAR time series unveils spatio-temporal variations and distinct seasonal movement dynamics related to different drivers and processes as well as internal structures. Combining our approach with in situ observations could help to achieve a more holistic understanding of rock glacier dynamics and to assess the future evolution of permafrost under changing climatic conditions.
The N,C-coupled naphthylisoquinoline alkaloid ancistrocladinium A belongs to a novel class of natural products with potent antiprotozoal activity. Its effects on tumor cells, however, have not yet been explored. We demonstrate the antitumor activity of ancistrocladinium A in multiple myeloma (MM), a yet incurable blood cancer that represents a model disease for adaptation to proteotoxic stress. Viability assays showed a potent apoptosis-inducing effect of ancistrocladinium A in MM cell lines, including those with proteasome inhibitor (PI) resistance, and in primary MM cells, but not in non-malignant blood cells. Concomitant treatment with the PI carfilzomib or the histone deacetylase inhibitor panobinostat strongly enhanced the ancistrocladinium A-induced apoptosis. Mass spectrometry with biotinylated ancistrocladinium A revealed significant enrichment of RNA-splicing-associated proteins. Affected RNA-splicing-associated pathways included genes involved in proteotoxic stress response, such as PSMB5-associated genes and the heat shock proteins HSP90 and HSP70. Furthermore, we found strong induction of ATF4 and the ATM/H2AX pathway, both of which are critically involved in the integrated cellular response following proteotoxic and oxidative stress. Taken together, our data indicate that ancistrocladinium A targets cellular stress regulation in MM and improves the therapeutic response to PIs or overcomes PI resistance, and thus may represent a promising potential therapeutic agent.
Background and objectives: Cartilage surgery constitutes a standard intervention in foot and ankle procedures. Currently, there is a lack of epidemiological data on its frequency, age distribution, and surgical options for cartilage surgery. This study aimed to investigate the current landscape of cartilage surgery in Germany and identify the most common procedures from an epidemiological standpoint. Materials and methods: Medical billing and reporting data from the Federal Statistical Office of Germany, encompassing the period 2006–2020, was examined, including all foot and ankle cartilage surgical procedures (summarized under OPS codes 5-812 and 5-801). The dataset incorporated information on the affected joint, patient age and sex, and surgery type. Each surgical procedure was categorized as “debridement”, “regeneration” or “refixation”. Linear and nonlinear regression analyses were employed, with a statistical significance threshold of 0.05. Results: From the total of 136,501 procedures conducted during the study period, the most frequently performed interventions were microfracture (58,252) and chondroplasty (56,135), and thus, debridement procedures were in the leading position. The use of acellular membranes was the most used regenerative technique (n = 11,414). At the ankle joint, interventions were mostly arthroscopic and in men, while foot cartilage surgeries were preferably performed via open surgery and mostly in women. Age distribution analysis revealed two primary peaks: the first in the 20–25-year-old group (ankle and foot) and the second in the 45–50-year-old group (ankle) and 55–60-year-old group (foot). Refixation and regenerative procedures were more frequent among younger individuals, while debriding procedures were more frequent among older individuals. Regenerative procedures, particularly in the ankle, significantly increased over time. Conclusions: Cartilage surgery of the foot and ankle was common, with two primary age groups predominantly affected. Notably, recent years have witnessed a considerable rise in cartilage regenerative procedures.
The use of bone-cement-enforced osteosynthesis is a growing topic in trauma surgery. In this context, drillability is a desirable feature for cements that can improve fracture stability, which most of the available cement systems lack. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated a resorbable and drillable magnesium-phosphate (MgP)-based cement paste considering degradation behavior and biocompatibility in vivo. Two different magnesium-phosphate-based cement (MPC) pastes with different amounts of phytic acid (IP 6) as setting retarder (MPC 22.5 and MPC 25) were implanted in an orthotopic defect model of the lateral femoral condyle of New Zealand white rabbits for 6 weeks. After explantation, their resorption behavior and material characteristics were evaluated by means of X-ray diffraction (XRD), porosimetry measurement, histological staining, peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and biomechanical load-to-failure tests. Both cement pastes displayed comparable results in mechanical strength and resorption kinetics. Bone-contact biocompatibility was excellent without any signs of inflammation. Initial resorption and bone remodeling could be observed. MPC pastes with IP 6 as setting retardant have the potential to be a valuable alternative in distinct fracture patterns. Drillability, promising resorption potential and high mechanical strength confirm their suitability for use in clinical routine.
In heart failure and atrial fibrillation, a persistent Na\(^+\) current (I\(_{NaL}\)) exerts detrimental effects on cellular electrophysiology and can induce arrhythmias. We have recently shown that Na\(_V\)1.8 contributes to arrhythmogenesis by inducing a I\(_{NaL}\). Genome-wide association studies indicate that mutations in the SCN10A gene (Na\(_V\)1.8) are associated with increased risk for arrhythmias, Brugada syndrome, and sudden cardiac death. However, the mediation of these Na\(_V\)1.8-related effects, whether through cardiac ganglia or cardiomyocytes, is still a subject of controversial discussion. We used CRISPR/Cas9 technology to generate homozygous atrial SCN10A-KO-iPSC-CMs. Ruptured-patch whole-cell patch-clamp was used to measure the I\(_{NaL}\) and action potential duration. Ca\(^{2+}\) measurements (Fluo 4-AM) were performed to analyze proarrhythmogenic diastolic SR Ca\(^{2+}\) leak. The I\(_{NaL}\) was significantly reduced in atrial SCN10A KO CMs as well as after specific pharmacological inhibition of Na\(_V\)1.8. No effects on atrial APD\(_{90}\) were detected in any groups. Both SCN10A KO and specific blockers of Na\(_V\)1.8 led to decreased Ca\(^{2+}\) spark frequency and a significant reduction of arrhythmogenic Ca\(^{2+}\) waves. Our experiments demonstrate that Na\(_V\)1.8 contributes to I\(_{NaL}\) formation in human atrial CMs and that Na\(_V\)1.8 inhibition modulates proarrhythmogenic triggers in human atrial CMs and therefore Na\(_V\)1.8 could be a new target for antiarrhythmic strategies.
In March 2020, Germany imposed a nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19, prompting questions about the impact on the incidence of common fractures. This study examined 15 fracture types in pre-outbreak (2010–2019) and post-outbreak (2020–2021) periods, using data categorized by age (18–64 years, 65 years) and sex (male, female). Linear regression assessed annual growth rates, and mean fracture numbers were compared across periods for significant differences. Results indicated a positive correlation between fracture incidence rates and time for various types, such as cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and pelvic spine fractures, rib fractures, femoral neck, pertrochanteric femur, femoral shaft, and ankle fractures. Frequencies of proximal humerus, distal radius, femoral neck, pertrochanteric femur, femoral shaft, and ankle fractures in 2020 and 2021 were within predicted ranges from previous years. However, rib fractures and spinal fractures (cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and pelvic spine) occurred less frequently during this time. Notably, this study found a consistent decline in most fracture types for individuals aged 18–64 after the pandemic’s onset, while the fracture incidence of hip fractures, often referred to as fragility fractures, for those over 65 remained unchanged. Fibula fractures showed the most considerable decrease in both age groups. In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic substantially impacted fracture incidence, with lower rates among individuals under 65 and unchanged fragility fractures in the elderly population.
We calculate differential Shannon entropies derived from time-dependent coordinate-space and momentum-space probability densities. This is performed for a prototype system of a coupled electron–nuclear motion. Two situations are considered, where one is a Born–Oppenheimer adiabatic dynamics, and the other is a diabatic motion involving strong non-adiabatic transitions. The information about coordinate- and momentum-space dynamics derived from the total and single-particle entropies is discussed and interpreted with the help of analytical models. From the entropies, we derive mutual information, which is a measure for the electron–nuclear correlation. In the adiabatic case, it is found that such correlations are manifested differently in coordinate- and momentum space. For the diabatic dynamics, we show that it is possible to decompose the entropies into state-specific contributions.
Recent dissection studies resulted in the introduction of the term “chiasma antebrachii”, which represents an intersection of the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tendons for digits 2 and 3 in the distal third of the forearm. This retrospective investigation aimed to provide an MRI-based morphologic analysis of the chiasma antebrachii. In 89 patients (41 women, 39.3 ± 21.3 years), MRI examinations of the forearm (2010–2021) were reviewed by two radiologists, who evaluated all studies for the presence and length of the chiasma as well as its distance from the distal radioulnar and elbow joint. The chiasma antebrachii was identified in the distal third of the forearm in 88 patients (98.9%), while one intersection was located more proximally in the middle part. The chiasma had a median length of 28 mm (interquartile range: 24–35 mm). Its distances to the distal radioulnar and elbow joint were 16 mm (8–25 mm) and 215 mm (187–227 mm), respectively. T1-weighted post-contrast sequences were found to be superior to T2- or proton-density-weighted sequences in 71 cases (79.8%). To conclude, the chiasma antebrachii is part of the standard FDS anatomy. Knowledge of its morphology is important, e.g., in targeted injections of therapeutics or reconstructive surgery.
Ultra-high-resolution photon-counting detector CT arthrography of the ankle: a feasibility study
(2023)
This study was designed to investigate the image quality of ultra-high-resolution ankle arthrography employing a photon-counting detector CT. Bilateral arthrograms were acquired in four cadaveric specimens with full-dose (10 mGy) and low-dose (3 mGy) scan protocols. Three convolution kernels with different spatial frequencies were utilized for image reconstruction (ρ\(_{50}\); Br98: 39.0, Br84: 22.6, Br76: 16.5 lp/cm). Seven radiologists subjectively assessed the image quality regarding the depiction of bone, hyaline cartilage, and ligaments. An additional quantitative assessment comprised the measurement of noise and the computation of contrast-to-noise ratios (CNR). While an optimal depiction of bone tissue was achieved with the ultra-sharp Br98 kernel (S ≤ 0.043), the visualization of cartilage improved with lower modulation transfer functions at each dose level (p ≤ 0.014). The interrater reliability ranged from good to excellent for all assessed tissues (intraclass correlation coefficient ≥ 0.805). The noise levels in subcutaneous fat decreased with reduced spatial frequency (p < 0.001). Notably, the low-dose Br76 matched the CNR of the full-dose Br84 (p 0.999) and superseded Br98 (p < 0.001) in all tissues. Based on the reported results, a photon-counting detector CT arthrography of the ankle with an ultra-high-resolution collimation offers stellar image quality and tissue assessability, improving the evaluation of miniscule anatomical structures. While bone depiction was superior in combination with an ultra-sharp convolution kernel, soft tissue evaluation benefited from employing a lower spatial frequency.
Vestibular schwannoma (VS) are benign cranial nerve sheath tumors of the vestibulocochlear nerve. Their incidence is mostly sporadic, but they can also be associated with NF2-related schwannomatosis (NF2), a hereditary tumor syndrome. Metastasis associated in colon cancer 1 (MACC1) is known to contribute to angiogenesis, cell growth, invasiveness, cell motility and metastasis of solid malignant cancers. In addition, MACC1 may be associated with nonsyndromic hearing impairment. Therefore, we evaluated whether MACC1 may be involved in the pathogenesis of VS. Sporadic VS, recurrent sporadic VS, NF2-associated VS, recurrent NF2-associated VS and healthy vestibular nerves were analyzed for MACC1 mRNA and protein expression by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. MACC1 expression levels were correlated with the patients’ clinical course and symptoms. MACC1 mRNA expression was significantly higher in sporadic VS compared to NF2-associated VS (p < 0.001). The latter expressed similar MACC1 concentrations as healthy vestibular nerves. Recurrent tumors resembled the MACC1 expression of the primary tumors. MACC1 mRNA expression was significantly correlated with deafness in sporadic VS patients (p = 0.034). Therefore, MACC1 might be a new molecular marker involved in VS pathogenesis.
Multiple myeloma (MM) frequently induces persisting osteolytic manifestations despite hematologic treatment response. This study aimed to establish a biometrically valid study endpoint for bone remineralization through quantitative and qualitative analyses in sequential CT scans. Twenty patients (seven women, 58 ± 8 years) with newly diagnosed MM received standardized induction therapy comprising the anti-SLAMF7 antibody elotuzumab, carfilzomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (E-KRd). All patients underwent whole-body low-dose CT scans before and after six cycles of E-KRd. Two radiologists independently recorded osteolytic lesion sizes, as well as the presence of cortical destruction, pathologic fractures, rim and trabecular sclerosis. Bland–Altman analyses and Krippendorff’s α were employed to assess inter-reader reliability, which was high for lesion size measurement (standard error 1.2 mm) and all qualitative criteria assessed (α ≥ 0.74). After six cycles of E-KRd induction, osteolytic lesion size decreased by 22% (p < 0.001). While lesion size response did not correlate with the initial lesion size at baseline imaging (Pearson’s r = 0.144), logistic regression analysis revealed that the majority of responding osteolyses exhibited trabecular sclerosis (p < 0.001). The sum of osteolytic lesion sizes on sequential CT scans defines a reliable study endpoint to characterize bone remineralization. Patient level response is strongly associated with the presence of trabecular sclerosis.
The tumor microenvironment (TME) in breast cancer is determined by the complex crosstalk of cancer cells with adipose tissue-inherent cells such as adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs) and adipocytes resulting from the local invasion of tumor cells in the mammary fat pad. This leads to heterotypic cellular contacts between these cell types. To adequately mimic the specific cell-to-cell interaction in an in vivo-like 3D environment, we developed a direct co-culture spheroid model using ASCs or differentiated adipocytes in combination with MDA-MB-231 or MCF-7 breast carcinoma cells. Co-spheroids were generated in a well-defined and reproducible manner in a high-throughput process. We compared the expression of the tumor-promoting chemokine CCL5 and its cognate receptors in these co-spheroids to indirect and direct standard 2D co-cultures. A marked up-regulation of CCL5 and in particular the receptor CCR1 with strict dependence on cell–cell contacts and culture dimensionality was evident. Furthermore, the impact of direct contacts between ASCs and tumor cells and the involvement of CCR1 in promoting tumor cell migration were demonstrated. Overall, these results show the importance of direct 3D co-culture models to better represent the complex tumor–stroma interaction in a tissue-like context. The unveiling of tumor-specific markers that are up-regulated upon direct cell–cell contact with neighboring stromal cells, as demonstrated in the 3D co-culture spheroids, may represent a promising strategy to find new targets for the diagnosis and treatment of invasive breast cancer.
Background: Aging increases individual susceptibility to falls and injuries, suggesting poorer adaptation of balance responses to perturbation during locomotion, which can be measured with the locomotor adaptation task (LAT). However, it is unclear how aging and lifestyle factors affect these responses during walking. Hence, the present study investigates the relationship between balance and lifestyle factors during the LAT in healthy individuals across the adult lifespan using a correlational design. Methods: Thirty participants aged 20–78 years performed an LAT on a split-belt treadmill (SBT). We evaluated the magnitude and rate of adaptation and deadaptation during the LAT. Participants reported their lifelong physical and cognitive activity. Results: Age positively correlated with gait-line length asymmetry at the late post-adaptation phase (p = 0.007). These age-related effects were mediated by recent physical activity levels (p = 0.040). Conclusion: Our results confirm that locomotor adaptive responses are preserved in aging, but the ability to deadapt newly learnt balance responses is compromised with age. Physical activity mediates these age-related effects. Therefore, gait symmetry post-adaptation could effectively measure the risk of falling, and maintaining physical activity could protect against declines in balance.
Background: Monitoring the vital signs of delirious patients in an intensive care unit (ICU) is challenging, as they might (un-)intentionally remove devices attached to their bodies. In mock-up scenarios, we systematically assessed whether a motion detector (MD) attached to the bed may help in identifying emergencies. Methods: We recruited 15 employees of the ICU and equipped an ICU bed with an MD (IRON Software GmbH, Grünwald, Germany). Participants were asked to replay 22 mock-up scenes of one-minute duration each: 12 scenes with movements and 10 without movements, of which 5 were emergency scenes (“lying dead-still, with no or very shallow breathing”). Blinded recordings were presented to an evaluation panel consisting of an experienced ICU nurse and a physician, who was asked to assess and rate the presence of motions. Results: Fifteen participants (nine women; 173 ± 7.0 cm; 78 ± 19 kg) joined the study. In total, 286 out of 330 scenes (86.7%) were rated correctly. Ratings were false negative (FN: “no movements detected, but recorded”) in 7 out of 180 motion scenes (3.9%). Ratings were false positive (FP: “movements detected, but not recorded”) in 37 out of 150 scenes (24.7%), more often in men than women (26 out of 60 vs. 11 out of 90, respectively; p < 0.001). Of note, in 16 of these 37 FP-rated scenes, a vibrating mobile phone was identified as a potential confounder. The emergency scenes were correctly rated in 64 of the 75 runs (85.3%); 10 of the 11 FP-rated scenes occurred in male subjects. Conclusions: The MD allowed for identifying motions of test subjects with high sensitivity (96%) and acceptable specificity (75%). Accuracy might increase further if activities are recorded continuously under real-world conditions.
(1) Background: The first-line treatment for patients with focal or segmental dystonia with a craniocervical distribution is still the intramuscular injection of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT). However, some patients experience primary or secondary treatment failure from this potential immunogenic therapy. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) may then be used as a backup strategy in this situation. (2) Methods: Here, we reviewed the current study literature to answer a specific question regarding the efficacy and safety of the use of DBS, particularly for cervical dystonia (CD) and Meige syndrome (MS) in patients with documented treatment failure under BoNT. (3) Results: There are only two studies with the highest level of evidence in this area. Despite this clear limitation, in the context of the narrowly defined research question of this paper, it is possible to report 161 patients with CD or MS who were included in studies that were able to show a statistically significant reduction in dystonic symptoms using DBS. Safety and tolerability data appeared adequate. However, much of the information is based on retrospective observations. (4) Conclusions: The evidence base in this area is in need of further scientific investigation. Most importantly, more randomized, controlled and double-blind trials are needed, possibly including a head-to-head comparison of DBS and BoNT.
Ag- but not ZnO-nanoparticles disturb the airway epithelial barrier at subtoxic concentrations
(2023)
Inhalation is considered to be the most relevant source of human exposure to nanoparticles (NPs); however, only a few investigations have addressed the influence of exposing the respiratory mucosal barrier to subcytotoxic doses. In the nasal respiratory epithelium, cells of the mucosa represent one of the first contact points of the human organism with airborne NPs. Disruption of the epithelial barrier by harmful materials can lead to inflammation in addition to potential intrinsic toxicity of the particles. The aim of this study was to investigate whether subtoxic concentrations of zinc oxide (ZnO)- and silver (Ag)-NPs have an influence on upper airway barrier integrity. Nasal epithelial cells from 17 donors were cultured at the air–liquid interface and exposed to ZnO- and Ag-NPs. Barrier function, quantified by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), decreased after treatment with 10 µg/mL Ag-NPs, but FITC-dextran permeability remained stable and no change in mRNA levels of tight junction proteins and E-cadherin was detected by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The results indicate that subtoxic concentrations of Ag-NPs may already induce damage of the upper airway epithelial barrier in vitro. The lack of similar disruption by ZnO-NPs of similar size suggests a specific effect by Ag-NPs.
Kisspeptins (KPs, KISS1) and their receptor (KISS1R) play a pivotal role as metastasis suppressor for many cancers. Low or lost KP expression is associated with higher tumor grade, increased metastatic potential, and poor prognosis. Therefore, KP expression has prognostic relevance and correlates with invasiveness in cancers. Furthermore, KISS1R represents a very promising target for molecular imaging and therapy for KISS1R-expressing tumors. The goal of this study was to evaluate the developed KISS1-54 derivative, [\(^{68}\)Ga]KISS1-54, as a PET-imaging probe for KISS1R-expressing tumors. The NODAGA-KISS1-54 peptide was labeled by Gallium-68, and the stability of the resulting [\(^{68}\)Ga]KISS1-54 evaluated in injection solution and human serum, followed by an examination in different KISS1R-expressing tumor cell lines, including HepG2, HeLa, MDA-MB-231, MCF7, LNCap, SK-BR-3, and HCT116. Finally, [\(^{68}\)Ga]KISS1-54 was tested in LNCap- and MDA-MB-231-bearing mice, using µ-PET, assessing its potential as an imaging probe for PET. [\(^{68}\)Ga]KISS1-54 was obtained in a 77 ± 7% radiochemical yield and at a >99% purity. The [\(^{68}\)Ga]KISS1-54 cell uptake amounted to 0.6–4.4% per 100,000 cells. Moreover, the accumulation of [\(^{68}\)Ga]KISS1-54 was effectively inhibited by nonradioactive KISS1-54. In [\(^{68}\)Ga]KISS1-54-PET, KISS1R-positive LNCap-tumors were clearly visualized as compared to MDA-MB-231-tumor implant with predominantly intracellular KISS1R expression. Our first results suggest that [\(^{68}\)Ga]KISS1-54 is a promising candidate for a radiotracer for targeting KISS1R-expressing tumors via PET.
Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) represents a rare tumor entity with limited treatment options and usually rapid tumor progression in case of metastatic disease. As further treatment options are needed and ACC metastases are sensitive to external beam radiation, novel theranostic approaches could complement established therapeutic concepts. Recent developments focus on targeting adrenal cortex-specific enzymes like the theranostic twin [\(^{123/131}\)I]IMAZA that shows a good image quality and a promising therapeutic effect in selected patients. But other established molecular targets in nuclear medicine such as the C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) could possibly enhance the therapeutic regimen as well in a subgroup of patients. The aims of this review are to give an overview of innovative radiopharmaceuticals for the treatment of ACC and to present the different molecular targets, as well as to show future perspectives for further developments since a radiopharmaceutical with a broad application range is still warranted.
Serum liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) steroid profiling is used for the diagnosis of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC). Guidelines recommend endocrine work-up in addition to radiological imaging for follow-up in ACC, but data on this topic are scarce. Patients were included in this retrospective study if pre-therapeutic hormone values, regular tumour evaluation by imaging, steroid measurements by LC–MS/MS, and details on therapies were available. The utility of steroid profiles in detecting recurrence or disease progression was assessed, whereby “endocrine progress” was defined by an elevation of at least 3 of 13 analysed hormones. Cohort A included 47 patients after R0 resection, of whom 15 experienced recurrence and 32 did not. In cohort B, 52 patients with advanced disease (including 7 patients of cohort A with recurrence) could be evaluated on 74 visits when progressive disease was documented. In 20 of 89 cases with documented disease progression, “endocrine progress” was detectable prior to radiological progress. In these cases, recurrence/progression was detected at a median of 32 days earlier by steroid measurement than by imaging, with 11-deoxycortisol and testosterone being the most sensitive markers. Notably, these patients had significantly larger tumour burden. In conclusion, steroid profiling by LC–MS/MS is of value in detecting recurrent/progressive disease in ACC.
Neural stem cells (NSCs) have previously been described up to the adult stage in the rat cochlear nucleus (CN). A decreasing neurogenic potential was observed with critical changes around hearing onset. A better understanding of molecular factors affecting NSCs and neurogenesis is of interest as they represent potential targets to treat the cause of neurologically based hearing disorders. The role of genes affecting NSC development and neurogenesis in CN over time on hearing capacity has remained unclear. This study investigated the mRNA abundance of genes influencing NSCs and neurogenesis in rats’ CN over time. The CN of rats on postnatal days 6, 12, and 24 were examined. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction arrays were used to compare mRNA levels of 84 genes relevant to NSCs and neurogenesis. Age- and hearing-specific patterns of changes in mRNA abundance of neurogenically relevant genes were detected in the rat CN. Additionally, crucial neurogenic factors with significant and relevant influence on neurogenesis were identified. The results of this work should contribute to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the neurogenesis of the auditory pathway.
Safety and tolerability of SGLT2 inhibitors in cardiac amyloidosis — a clinical feasibility study
(2024)
Sodium-glucose transport protein 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) slow the progression of renal dysfunction and improve the prognosis of patients with heart failure. Amyloidosis constitutes an important subgroup for which evidence is lacking. Amyloidotic fibrils originating from misfolded transthyretin and light chains are the causal agents in ATTR and AL amyloidosis. In these most frequent subtypes, cardiac involvement is the most common organ manifestation. Because cardiac and renal function frequently deteriorate over time, even under best available treatment, SGLT2i emerge as a promising treatment option due to their reno- and cardioprotective properties. We retrospectively analyzed patients with cardiac amyloidosis, who received either dapagliflozin or empagliflozin. Out of 79 patients, 5.1% had urinary tract infections; 2 stopped SGLT2i therapy; and 2.5% died unrelated to the intake of SGLT2i. No genital mycotic infections were observed. As expected, a slight drop in the glomerular filtration rate was noted, while the NYHA functional status, cardiac and hepatic function, as well as the 6 min walk distance remained stable over time. These data provide a rationale for the use of SGLT2i in patients with amyloidosis and concomitant cardiac or renal dysfunction. Prospective randomized data are desired to confirm safety and to prove efficacy in this increasingly important group of patients.
The present review examines retrospective analyses of training intensity distribution (TID), i.e., the proportion of training at moderate (Zone 1, Z1), heavy (Z2) and severe (Z3) intensity by elite-to-world-class endurance athletes during different phases of the season. In addition, we discuss potential implications of our findings for research in this field, as well as for training by these athletes. Altogether, we included 175 TIDs, of which 120 quantified exercise intensity on the basis of heart rate and measured time-in-zone or employed variations of the session goal approach, with demarcation of zones of exercise intensity based on physiological parameters. Notably, 49% of the TIDs were single-case studies, predominantly concerning cross-country skiing and/or the biathlon. Eighty-nine TIDs were pyramidal (Z1 > Z2 > Z3), 65 polarized (Z1 > Z3 > Z2) and 8 “threshold” (Z2 > Z1 = Z3). However, these relative numbers varied between sports and the particular phases of the season. In 91% (n = 160) of the TIDs >60% of the endurance exercise was of low intensity. Regardless of the approach to quantification or phase of the season, cyclists and swimmers were found to perform a lower proportion of exercise in Z1 (<72%) and higher proportion in Z2 (>16%) than athletes involved in the triathlon, speed skating, rowing, running, cross-country skiing or biathlon (>80% in Z1 and <12% in Z2 in all these cases). For most of the athletes their proportion of heavy-to-severe exercise was higher during the period of competition than during the preparatory phase, although with considerable variability between sports. In conclusion, the existing literature in this area does not allow general conclusions to be drawn. The methods utilized for quantification vary widely and, moreover, contextual information concerning the mode of exercise, environmental conditions, and biomechanical aspects of the exercise is often lacking. Therefore, we recommend a more comprehensive approach in connection with future investigations on the TIDs of athletes involved in different endurance sports.
Here, we performed a non-systematic analysis of the strength, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) associated with the application of artificial intelligence to sports research, coaching and optimization of athletic performance. The strength of AI with regards to applied sports research, coaching and athletic performance involve the automation of time-consuming tasks, processing and analysis of large amounts of data, and recognition of complex patterns and relationships. However, it is also essential to be aware of the weaknesses associated with the integration of AI into this field. For instance, it is imperative that the data employed to train the AI system be both diverse and complete, in addition to as unbiased as possible with respect to factors such as the gender, level of performance, and experience of an athlete. Other challenges include e.g., limited adaptability to novel situations and the cost and other resources required. Opportunities include the possibility to monitor athletes both long-term and in real-time, the potential discovery of novel indicators of performance, and prediction of risk for future injury. Leveraging these opportunities can transform athletic development and the practice of sports science in general. Threats include over-dependence on technology, less involvement of human expertise, risks with respect to data privacy, breaching of the integrity and manipulation of data, and resistance to adopting such new technology. Understanding and addressing these SWOT factors is essential for maximizing the benefits of AI while mitigating its risks, thereby paving the way for its successful integration into sport science research, coaching, and optimization of athletic performance.
Universal prevention for non-suicidal self-injury in adolescents is scarce - A systematic review
(2023)
Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) during adolescence is a high-risk marker for the development and persistence of mental health problems and has been recognized as a significant public health problem. Whereas targeted prevention has indeed shown to be effective in reducing NSSI and improve mental health problems, access to such programs is limited. By face validity, universal prevention of NSSI seems an ideal starting point for a stepped-care model to circumvent a lack of resources in the medical care system. However, it is yet unclear how effective such approaches are. Here, we provide a summary of existing work on universal prevention of NSSI in adolescents younger than 21 years based on a systematic literature search. We found that only seven studies are available. None of the programs evaluated was found to be effective in reducing the incidence or frequency of NSSI. After providing a comprehensive summary of the existing work, we evaluate the fact that existing work primarily focusses on selected/targeted prevention and on psychoeducational methods. We derive implications for future directions in the field of universal prevention of NSSI.
In Burkitt lymphoma (BL), a tumor of germinal center B cells, the pro-apoptotic properties of MYC are controlled by tonic B cell receptor (BCR) signals. Since BL cells do not exhibit constitutive NF-κB activity, we hypothesized that anti-apoptotic NFATc1 proteins provide a major transcriptional survival signal in BL. Here we show that post-transcriptional mechanisms are responsible for the calcineurin (CN) independent constitutive nuclear over-expression of NFATc1 in BL and Eµ-MYC – induced B cell lymphomas (BCL). Conditional inactivation of the Nfatc1 gene in B cells of Eµ-MYC mice leads to apoptosis of BCL cells in vivo and ex vivo. Inhibition of BCR/SYK/BTK/PI3K signals in BL cells results in cytosolic re-location of NFATc1 and apoptosis. Therefore, NFATc1 activity is an integrated part of tonic BCR signaling and an alternative target for therapeutic intervention in BL.
Despite fine tuning voluntary movement as the most prominently studied function of the cerebellum, early human studies suggested cerebellar involvement emotion regulation. Since, the cerebellum has been associated with various mood and anxiety-related conditions. Research in animals provided evidence for cerebellar contributions to fear memory formation and extinction. Fear and anxiety can broadly be referred to as defensive states triggered by threat and characterized by multimodal adaptations such as behavioral and cardiac responses integrated into an intricately orchestrated defense reaction. This is mediated by an evolutionary conserved, highly interconnected network of defense-related structures with functional connections to the cerebellum. Projections from the deep cerebellar nucleus interpositus to the central amygdala interfere with retention of fear memory. Several studies uncovered tight functional connections between cerebellar deep nuclei and pyramis and the midbrain periaqueductal grey. Specifically, the fastigial nucleus sends direct projections to the ventrolateral PAG to mediate fear-evoked innate and learned freezing behavior. The cerebellum also regulates cardiovascular responses such as blood pressure and heart rate-effects dependent on connections with medullary cardiac regulatory structures. Because of the integrated, multimodal nature of defensive states, their adaptive regulation has to be highly dynamic to enable responding to a moving threatening stimulus. In this, predicting threat occurrence are crucial functions of calculating adequate responses. Based on its role in prediction error generation, its connectivity to limbic regions, and previous results on a role in fear learning, this review presents the cerebellum as a regulator of integrated cardio-behavioral defensive states.
Glycine receptor (GlyR) autoantibodies are associated with stiff-person syndrome and the life-threatening progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity and myoclonus in children and adults. Patient histories show variability in symptoms and responses to therapeutic treatments. A better understanding of the autoantibody pathology is required to develop improved therapeutic strategies. So far, the underlying molecular pathomechanisms include enhanced receptor internalization and direct receptor blocking altering GlyR function. A common epitope of autoantibodies against the GlyRα1 has been previously defined to residues 1A-33G at the N-terminus of the mature GlyR extracellular domain. However, if other autoantibody binding sites exist or additional GlyR residues are involved in autoantibody binding is yet unknown. The present study investigates the importance of receptor glycosylation for binding of anti-GlyR autoantibodies. The glycine receptor α1 harbors only one glycosylation site at the amino acid residue asparagine 38 localized in close vicinity to the identified common autoantibody epitope. First, non-glycosylated GlyRs were characterized using protein biochemical approaches as well as electrophysiological recordings and molecular modeling. Molecular modeling of non-glycosylated GlyRα1 did not show major structural alterations. Moreover, non-glycosylation of the GlyRα1N38Q did not prevent the receptor from surface expression. At the functional level, the non-glycosylated GlyR demonstrated reduced glycine potency, but patient GlyR autoantibodies still bound to the surface-expressed non-glycosylated receptor protein in living cells. Efficient adsorption of GlyR autoantibodies from patient samples was possible by binding to native glycosylated and non-glycosylated GlyRα1 expressed in living not fixed transfected HEK293 cells. Binding of patient-derived GlyR autoantibodies to the non-glycosylated GlyRα1 offered the possibility to use purified non-glycosylated GlyR extracellular domain constructs coated on ELISA plates and use them as a fast screening readout for the presence of GlyR autoantibodies in patient serum samples. Following successful adsorption of patient autoantibodies by GlyR ECDs, binding to primary motoneurons and transfected cells was absent. Our results indicate that the glycine receptor autoantibody binding is independent of the receptor’s glycosylation state. Purified non-glycosylated receptor domains harbouring the autoantibody epitope thus provide, an additional reliable experimental tool besides binding to native receptors in cell-based assays for detection of autoantibody presence in patient sera.
The reversible condensation of catechols and boronic acids to boronate esters is a paradigm reaction in dynamic covalent chemistry. However, facile backward hydrolysis is detrimental for stability and has so far prevented applications for boronate-based materials. Here, we introduce cubic boronate ester cages 6 derived from hexahydroxy tribenzotriquinacenes and phenylene diboronic acids with ortho-t-butyl substituents. Due to steric shielding, dynamic exchange at the Lewis acidic boron sites is feasible only under acid or base catalysis but fully prevented at neutral conditions. For the first time, boronate ester cages 6 tolerate substantial amounts of water or alcohols both in solution and solid state. The unprecedented applicability of these materials under ambient and aqueous conditions is showcased by efficient encapsulation and on-demand release of β-carotene dyes and heterogeneous water oxidation catalysis after the encapsulation of ruthenium catalysts.
Conspectus
Nature has established a sustainable way to maintain aerobic life on earth by inventing one of the most sophisticated biological processes, namely, natural photosynthesis, which delivers us with organic matter and molecular oxygen derived from the two abundant resources sunlight and water. The thermodynamically demanding photosynthetic water splitting is catalyzed by the oxygen-evolving complex in photosystem II (OEC-PSII), which comprises a distorted tetramanganese–calcium cluster (CaMn\(_4\)O\(_5\)) as catalytic core. As an ubiquitous concept for fine-tuning and regulating the reactivity of the active site of metalloenzymes, the surrounding protein domain creates a sophisticated environment that promotes substrate preorganization through secondary, noncovalent interactions such as hydrogen bonding or electrostatic interactions. Based on the high-resolution X-ray structure of PSII, several water channels were identified near the active site, which are filled with extensive hydrogen-bonding networks of preorganized water molecules, connecting the OEC with the protein surface. As an integral part of the outer coordination sphere of natural metalloenzymes, these channels control the substrate and product delivery, carefully regulate the proton flow by promoting pivotal proton-coupled electron transfer processes, and simultaneously stabilize short-lived oxidized intermediates, thus highlighting the importance of an ordered water network for the remarkable efficiency of the natural OEC.
Transferring this concept from nature to the engineering of artificial metal catalysts for fuel production has fostered the fascinating field of metallosupramolecular chemistry by generating defined cavities that conceptually mimic enzymatic pockets. However, the application of supramolecular approaches to generate artificial water oxidation catalysts remained scarce prior to our initial reports, since such molecular design strategies for efficient activation of substrate water molecules in confined nanoenvironments were lacking. In this Account, we describe our research efforts on combining the state-of-the art Ru(bda) catalytic framework with structurally programmed ditopic ligands to guide the water oxidation process in defined metallosupramolecular assemblies in spatial proximity. We will elucidate the governing factors that control the quality of hydrogen-bonding water networks in multinuclear cavities of varying sizes and geometries to obtain high-performance, state-of-the-art water oxidation catalysts. Pushing the boundaries of artificial catalyst design, embedding a single catalytic Ru center into a well-defined molecular pocket enabled sophisticated water preorganization in front of the active site through an encoded basic recognition site, resulting in high catalytic rates comparable to those of the natural counterpart OEC-PSII.
To fully explore their potential for solar fuel devices, the suitability of our metallosupramolecular assemblies was demonstrated under (electro)chemical and photocatalytic water oxidation conditions. In addition, testing the limits of structural diversity allowed the fabrication of self-assembled linear coordination oligomers as novel photocatalytic materials and long-range ordered covalent organic framework (COF) materials as recyclable and long-term stable solid-state materials for future applications.
Introduction
We investigated a slow-cortical potential (SCP) neurofeedback therapy approach for rehabilitating chronic attention deficits after stroke. This study is the first attempt to train patients who survived stroke with SCP neurofeedback therapy.
Methods
We included N = 5 participants in a within-subjects follow-up design. We assessed neuropsychological and psychological performance at baseline (4 weeks before study onset), before study onset, after neurofeedback training, and at 3 months follow-up. Participants underwent 20 sessions of SCP neurofeedback training.
Results
Participants learned to regulate SCPs toward negativity, and we found indications for improved attention after the SCP neurofeedback therapy in some participants. Quality of life improved throughout the study according to engagement in activities of daily living. The self-reported motivation was related to mean SCP activation in two participants.
Discussion
We would like to bring attention to the potential of SCP neurofeedback therapy as a new rehabilitation method for treating post-stroke cognitive deficits. Studies with larger samples are warranted to corroborate the results.
Background
Cognitive impairment is a major comorbidity in patients with chronic heart failure (HF) with a wide range of phenotypes. In this study, we aimed to identify and compare different clusters of cognitive deficits.
Methods
The prospective cohort study “Cognition.Matters-HF” recruited 147 chronic HF patients (aged 64.5 ± 10.8 years; 16.2% female) of any etiology. All patients underwent extensive neuropsychological testing. We performed a hierarchical cluster analysis of the cognitive domains, such as intensity of attention, visual/verbal memory, and executive function. Generated clusters were compared exploratively with respect to the results of cardiological, neurological, and neuroradiological examinations without correction for multiple testing.
Results
Dendrogram and the scree plot suggested three distinct cognitive profiles: In the first cluster, 42 patients (28.6%) performed without any deficits in all domains. Exclusively, the intensity of attention deficits was seen in the second cluster, including 55 patients (37.4%). A third cluster with 50 patients (34.0%) was characterized by deficits in all cognitive domains. Age (p = 0.163) and typical clinical markers of chronic HF, such as ejection fraction (p = 0.222), 6-min walking test distance (p = 0.138), NT-proBNP (p = 0.364), and New York Heart Association class (p = 0.868) did not differ between clusters. However, we observed that women (p = 0.012) and patients with previous cardiac valve surgery (p = 0.005) prevailed in the “global deficits” cluster and the “no deficits” group had a lower prevalence of underlying arterial hypertension (p = 0.029). Total brain volume (p = 0.017) was smaller in the global deficit cluster, and serum levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein were increased (p = 0.048).
Conclusion
Apart from cognitively healthy and globally impaired HF patients, we identified a group with deficits only in the intensity of attention. Women and patients with previous cardiac valve surgery are at risk for global cognitive impairment when suffering HF and could benefit from special multimodal treatment addressing the psychosocial condition.
Treating seronegative neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder with inebilizumab: a case report
(2023)
Background
Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a devastating inflammatory disease of the central nervous system that is often severely disabling from the outset. The lack of pathognomonic aquaporin 4 (AQP4) antibodies in seronegative NMOSD not only hinders early diagnosis, but also limits therapeutic options, in contrast to AQP4 antibody-positive NMOSD, where the therapeutic landscape has recently evolved massively.
Case presentation
We report a 56-year-old woman with bilateral optic neuritis and longitudinally extensive myelitis as the index events of a seronegative NMOSD, who was successfully treated with inebilizumab.
Conclusion
Treatment with inebilizumab may be considered in aggressive seronegative NMOSD. Whether broader CD19-directed B cell depletion is more effective than treatment with rituximab remains elusive.
Mutations in the mitochondrial-DNA or mitochondria related nuclear-encoded-DNA lead to various multisystemic disorders collectively termed mitochondrial diseases. One in three cases of mitochondrial disease affects the heart muscle, which is called mitochondrial cardiomyopathy (MCM) and is associated with hypertrophic, dilated, and noncompact cardiomyopathy. The heart is an organ with high energy demand, and mitochondria occupy 30%–40% of its cardiomyocyte-cell volume. Mitochondrial dysfunction leads to energy depletion and has detrimental effects on cardiac performance. However, disease development and progression in the context of mitochondrial and nuclear DNA mutations, remains incompletely understood. The system of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cardiomyocytes (CM) is an excellent platform to study MCM since the unique genetic identity to their donors enables a robust recapitulation of the predicted phenotypes in a dish on a patient-specific level. Here, we focus on recent insights into MCM studied by patient-specific iPSC-CM and further discuss research gaps and advances in metabolic maturation of iPSC-CM, which is crucial for the study of mitochondrial dysfunction and to develop novel therapeutic strategies.
Objectives
The spectrum of giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) represents highly inflammatory rheumatic diseases. Patients mostly report severe physical impairment. Possible consequences for mental health have been scarcely studied. The aim of this study was to investigate psychological well-being in the context of GCA and PMR.
Methods
Cross-sectional study with N = 100 patients with GCA and/or PMR (GCA-PMR). Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were measured using the Short Form 36 Version 2 (SF-36v2) and visual analog scale (VAS) assessment. Moreover, the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9) was used in 35 of 100 patients to detect depression. To compare PROs with physician assessment, VAS was also rated from physician perspective. To assess a possible association with inflammation itself, serological parameters of inflammation (C-reactive protein [CRP], erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR]) were included.
Results
In all scales of the SF-36v2 except General Health (GH) and in the physical and mental sum score (PCS, MCS), a significant impairment compared to the German reference collective was evident (MCS: d = 0.533, p < 0.001). In the PHQ-9 categorization, 14 of the 35 (40%) showed evidence of major depression disorder. VAS Patient correlated significantly with PHQ-9 and SF-36 in all categories, while VAS Physician showed only correlations to physical categories and not in the mental dimensions. Regarding inflammatory parameters, linear regression showed CRP to be a complementary significant positive predictor of mental health subscale score, independent of pain.
Conclusion
PRO show a relevant impairment of mental health up to symptoms of major depression disorder. The degree of depressive symptoms is also distinctly associated with the serological inflammatory marker CRP.
Introduction
Pro-thrombotic events are one of the prevalent causes of intensive care unit (ICU) admissions among COVID-19 patients, although the signaling events in the stimulated platelets are still unclear.
Methods
We conducted a comparative analysis of platelet transcriptome data from healthy donors, ICU, and non-ICU COVID-19 patients to elucidate these mechanisms. To surpass previous analyses, we constructed models of involved networks and control cascades by integrating a global human signaling network with transcriptome data. We investigated the control of platelet hyperactivation and the specific proteins involved.
Results
Our study revealed that control of the platelet network in ICU patients is significantly higher than in non-ICU patients. Non-ICU patients require control over fewer proteins for managing platelet hyperactivity compared to ICU patients. Identification of indispensable proteins highlighted key subnetworks, that are targetable for system control in COVID-19-related platelet hyperactivity. We scrutinized FDA-approved drugs targeting indispensable proteins and identified fostamatinib as a potent candidate for preventing thrombosis in COVID-19 patients.
Discussion
Our findings shed light on how SARS-CoV-2 efficiently affects host platelets by targeting indispensable and critical proteins involved in the control of platelet activity. We evaluated several drugs for specific control of platelet hyperactivity in ICU patients suffering from platelet hyperactivation. The focus of our approach is repurposing existing drugs for optimal control over the signaling network responsible for platelet hyperactivity in COVID-19 patients. Our study offers specific pharmacological recommendations, with drug prioritization tailored to the distinct network states observed in each patient condition. Interactive networks and detailed results can be accessed at https://fostamatinib.bioinfo-wuerz.eu/.
Zinc (Zn2+) is considered as important mediator of immune cell function, thrombosis and haemostasis. However, our understanding of the transport mechanisms that regulate Zn2+ homeostasis in platelets is limited. Zn2+ transporters, ZIPs and ZnTs, are widely expressed in eukaryotic cells. Using mice globally lacking ZIP1 and ZIP3 (ZIP1/3 DKO), our aim was to explore the potential role of these Zn2+ transporters in maintaining platelet Zn2+ homeostasis and in the regulation of platelet function. While ICP-MS measurements indicated unaltered overall Zn2+ concentrations in platelets of ZIP1/3 DKO mice, we observed a significantly increased content of FluoZin3-stainable free Zn2+, which, however, appears to be released less efficiently upon thrombin-stimulated platelet activation. On the functional level, ZIP1/3 DKO platelets exhibited a hyperactive response towards threshold concentrations of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) agonists, while immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM)-coupled receptor agonist signalling was unaffected. This resulted in enhanced platelet aggregation towards thrombin, bigger thrombus volume under flow ex vivo and faster in vivo thrombus formation in ZIP1/3 DKO mice. Molecularly, augmented GPCR responses were accompanied by enhanced Ca2+ and PKC, CamKII and ERK1/2 signalling. The current study thereby identifies ZIP1 and ZIP3 as important regulators for the maintenance of platelet Zn2+ homeostasis and function.
Antibody-based soluble and membrane-bound TWEAK mimicking agonists with FcγR-independent activity
(2023)
Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-inducible 14 (Fn14) activates the classical and alternative NFκB (nuclear factor ‘kappa-light-chain-enhancer’ of activated B-cells) signaling pathway but also enhances tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-induced cell death. Fn14 expression is upregulated in non-hematopoietic cells during tissue injury and is also often highly expressed in solid cancers. In view of the latter, there were and are considerable preclinical efforts to target Fn14 for tumor therapy, either by exploiting Fn14 as a target for antibodies with cytotoxic activity (e.g. antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC)-inducing IgG variants, antibody drug conjugates) or by blocking antibodies with the aim to interfere with protumoral Fn14 activities. Noteworthy, there are yet no attempts to target Fn14 with agonistic Fc effector function silenced antibodies to unleash the proinflammatory and cell death-enhancing activities of this receptor for tumor therapy. This is certainly not at least due to the fact that anti-Fn14 antibodies only act as effective agonists when they are presented bound to Fcγ receptors (FcγR). Thus, there are so far no antibodies that robustly and selectively engage Fn14 signaling without triggering unwanted FcγR-mediated activities. In this study, we investigated a panel of variants of the anti-Fn14 antibody 18D1 of different valencies and domain architectures with respect to their inherent FcγR-independent ability to trigger Fn14-associated signaling pathways. In contrast to conventional 18D1, the majority of 18D1 antibody variants with four or more Fn14 binding sites displayed a strong ability to trigger the alternative NFκB pathway and to enhance TNF-induced cell death and therefore resemble in their activity soluble (TNF)-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK), one form of the natural occurring ligand of Fn14. Noteworthy, activation of the classical NFκB pathway, which naturally is predominately triggered by membrane-bound TWEAK but not soluble TWEAK, was preferentially observed with a subset of constructs containing Fn14 binding sites at opposing sites of the IgG scaffold, e.g. IgG1-scFv fusion proteins. A superior ability of IgG1-scFv fusion proteins to trigger classical NFκB signaling was also observed with the anti-Fn14 antibody PDL192 suggesting that we identified generic structures for Fn14 antibody variants mimicking soluble and membrane-bound TWEAK.
Introduction
IgG4 autoantibodies against paranodal proteins are known to induce acute-onset and often severe sensorimotor autoimmune neuropathies. How autoantibodies reach their antigens at the paranode in spite of the myelin barrier is still unclear.
Methods
We performed in vitro incubation experiments with patient sera on unfixed and unpermeabilized nerve fibers and in vivo intraneural and intrathecal passive transfer of patient IgG to rats, to explore the access of IgG autoantibodies directed against neurofascin-155 and contactin-1 to the paranodes and their pathogenic effect.
Results
We found that in vitro incubation resulted in weak paranodal binding of anti-contactin-1 autoantibodies whereas anti-neurofascin-155 autoantibodies bound to the nodes more than to the paranodes. After short-term intraneural injection, no nodal or paranodal binding was detectable when using anti-neurofascin-155 antibodies. After repeated intrathecal injections, nodal more than paranodal binding could be detected in animals treated with anti-neurofascin-155, accompanied by sensorimotor neuropathy. In contrast, no paranodal binding was visible in rats intrathecally injected with anti-contactin-1 antibodies, and animals remained unaffected.
Conclusion
These data support the notion of different pathogenic mechanisms of anti-neurofascin-155 and anti-contactin-1 autoantibodies and different accessibility of paranodal and nodal structures.
Delayed and limited administration of the JAKinib tofacitinib mitigates chronic DSS-induced colitis
(2023)
In inflammatory bowel disease, dysregulated T cells express pro-inflammatory cytokines. Using a chronic azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis model resembling ulcerative colitis, we evaluated whether and when treatment with the Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor tofacitinib could be curative. Comparing the treatment with two and three cycles of tofacitinib medication in drinking water – intermittently with DSS induction – revealed that two cycles were not only sufficient but also superior over the 3-x regimen. The two cycles of the 2-x protocol paralleled the second and third cycles of the longer protocol. T cells were less able to express interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and the serum levels of IFN-γ, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, IL-17, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) were significantly reduced in sera, while those of IL-10 and IL-22 increased under the 2-x protocol. Likewise, the frequency and effector phenotype of regulatory T cells (Tregs) increased. This was accompanied by normal weight gain, controlled clinical scores, and restored stool consistency. The general and histologic appearance of the colons revealed healing and tissue intactness. Importantly, two phases of tofacitinib medication completely prevented AOM-incited pseudopolyps and the hyper-proliferation of epithelia, which was in contrast to the 3-x regimen. This implies that the initial IBD-induced cytokine expression is not necessarily harmful as long as inflammatory signaling can later be suppressed and that time-restricted treatment allows for anti-inflammatory and tissue-healing cytokine activities.
Introduction
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) causes significant morbidity and mortality in allogeneic stem cell transplant (alloSCT) recipients. Recently, antiviral letermovir prophylaxis during the first 100 days after alloSCT replaced PCR-guided preemptive therapy as the primary standard of care for HCMV reactivations. Here, we compared NK-cell and T-cell reconstitution in alloSCT recipients receiving preemptive therapy or letermovir prophylaxis in order to identify potential biomarkers predicting prolonged and symptomatic HCMV reactivation.
Methods
To that end, the NK-cell and T-cell repertoire of alloSCT recipients managed with preemptive therapy (n=32) or letermovir prophylaxis (n=24) was characterized by flow cytometry on days +30, +60, +90 and +120 after alloSCT. Additionally, background-corrected HCMV-specific T-helper (CD4+IFNγ+) and cytotoxic (CD8+IFNγ+CD107a+) T cells were quantified after pp65 stimulation.
Results
Compared to preemptive therapy, letermovir prophylaxis prevented HCMV reactivation and decreased HCMV peak viral loads until days +120 and +365. Letermovir prophylaxis resulted in decreased T-cell numbers but increased NK-cell numbers. Interestingly, despite the inhibition of HCMV, we found high numbers of “memory-like” (CD56dimFcεRIγ- and/or CD159c+) NK cells and an expansion of HCMV-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in letermovir recipients. We further compared immunological readouts in patients on letermovir prophylaxis with non/short-term HCMV reactivation (NSTR) and prolonged/symptomatic HCMV reactivation (long-term HCMV reactivation, LTR). Median HCMV-specific CD4+ T-cell frequencies were significantly higher in NSTR patients (day +60, 0.35 % vs. 0.00 % CD4+IFNγ+/CD4+ cells, p=0.018) than in patients with LTR, whereas patients with LTR had significantly higher median regulatory T-cell (Treg) frequencies (day +90, 2.2 % vs. 6.2 % CD4+CD25+CD127dim/CD4+ cells, p=0.019). ROC analysis confirmed low HCMV specific CD4+ (AUC on day +60: 0.813, p=0.019) and high Treg frequencies (AUC on day +90: 0.847, p=0.021) as significant predictors of prolonged and symptomatic HCMV reactivation.
Discussion
Taken together, letermovir prophylaxis delays HCMV reactivation and alters NK- and T-cell reconstitution. High numbers of HCMV-specific CD4+ T cells and low numbers of Tregs seem to be pivotal to suppress post-alloSCT HCMV reactivation during letermovir prophylaxis. Administration of more advanced immunoassays that include Treg signature cytokines might contribute to the identification of patients at high-risk for long-term and symptomatic HCMV reactivation who might benefit from prolonged administration of letermovir.
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) represent major regulators of immune responses, which can control T cells via their inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)- and arginase 1 (Arg1)-mediated effector functions. While GM-CSF is well documented to promote MDSC development, little is known about this potential of IL-3, an established growth factor for mast cells. Here, we show that IL-3, similar to GM-CSF, generates monocytic MDSC (M-MDSC) from murine bone marrow (BM) cells after 3 days of in vitro culture. At this time point, predominantly CD11b+ CD49a+ monocytic and CD11b+ CD49a- FcεR I- neutrophilic cells were detectable, while CD11blow/neg FcεR I+ mast cells accumulated only after extended culture periods. Both growth factors were equivalent in generating M-MDSC with respect to phenotype, cell yield and typical surface markers. However, IL-3 generated M-MDSC produced less TNF, IL-1β and IL-10 after activation with LPS + IFN-γ but showed higher Arg1 expression compared to GM-CSF generated M-MDSC. Arg1 was further induced together with iNOS after MDSC activation. Accordingly, an increased Arg1-dependent suppressor activity by the IL-3 generated M-MDSC was observed using respective iNOS and Arg1 inhibitors. Together, these data indicate that M-MDSC can be generated in vitro by IL-3, similar to GM-CSF, but with increased Arg1 expression and Arg1-mediated suppression capacity. This protocol now allows further in vitro studies on the role of IL-3 for MDSC biology.
Next-generation humanized NSG-SGM3 mice are highly susceptible to Staphylococcus aureus infection
(2023)
Humanized hemato-lymphoid system mice, or humanized mice, emerged in recent years as a promising model to study the course of infection of human-adapted or human-specific pathogens. Though Staphylococcus aureus infects and colonizes a variety of species, it has nonetheless become one of the most successful human pathogens of our time with a wide armory of human-adapted virulence factors. Humanized mice showed increased vulnerability to S. aureus compared to wild type mice in a variety of clinically relevant disease models. Most of these studies employed humanized NSG (NOD-scid IL2Rgnull) mice which are widely used in the scientific community, but show poor human myeloid cell reconstitution. Since this immune cell compartment plays a decisive role in the defense of the human immune system against S. aureus, we asked whether next-generation humanized mice, like NSG-SGM3 (NOD-scid IL2Rgnull-3/GM/SF) with improved myeloid reconstitution, would prove to be more resistant to infection. To our surprise, we found the contrary when we infected humanized NSG-SGM3 (huSGM3) mice with S. aureus: although they had stronger human immune cell engraftment than humanized NSG mice, particularly in the myeloid compartment, they displayed even more pronounced vulnerability to S. aureus infection. HuSGM3 mice had overall higher numbers of human T cells, B cells, neutrophils and monocytes in the blood and the spleen. This was accompanied by elevated levels of pro-inflammatory human cytokines in the blood of huSGM3 mice. We further identified that the impaired survival of huSGM3 mice was not linked to higher bacterial burden nor to differences in the murine immune cell repertoire. Conversely, we could demonstrate a correlation of the rate of humanization and the severity of infection. Collectively, this study suggests a detrimental effect of the human immune system in humanized mice upon encounter with S. aureus which might help to guide future therapy approaches and analysis of virulence mechanisms.
Many new immunotherapeutic approaches aim on the stimulatory targeting of receptors of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) using antibodies with intrinsic or conditional agonism. There is an initial need to characterize corresponding TNFRSF receptor (TNFR)-targeting antibodies with respect to affinity, ligand binding, receptor activation and the epitope recognized. Here, we report a collection of simple and matched protocols enabling the detailed investigation of these aspects by help of Gaussia princeps luciferase (GpL) fusion proteins and analysis of interleukin-8 (IL8) production as an easily measurable readout of TNFR activation. In a first step, the antibodies and antibody variants of interest are transiently expressed in human embryonal kidney 293 cells, either in non-modified form or as fusion proteins with GpL as a reporter domain. The supernatants containing the antibody-GpL fusion proteins can then be used without further purification in cell-free and/or cellular binding studies to determine affinity. Similarly, binding studies with mutated TNFR variants enable the characterization of the antibody binding site within the TNFR ectodomain. Furthermore, in cellular binding studies with GpL fusion proteins of soluble TNFL molecules, the ability of the non-modified antibody variants to interfere with TNFL-TNFR interaction can be analyzed. Last but not least, we describe a protocol to determine the intrinsic and the Fc gamma receptor (FcγR)-dependent agonism of anti-TNFR antibodies which exploits i) the capability of TNFRs to trigger IL8 production in tumor cell lines lacking expression of FcγRs and ii) vector- and FcγR-transfected cells, which produce no or only very low amounts of human IL8. The presented protocols only require standard molecular biological equipment, eukaryotic cell culture and plate readers for the quantification of luminescent and colorimetric signals.
B cell maturation and immunoglobulin (Ig) repertoire selection are governed by expression of a functional B cell receptor (BCR). Naïve B cells co-express their BCR as IgM and IgD isotype. However, the role of the additionally expressed IgD on naïve B cells is not known. Here we assessed the impact of IgD on naïve B cell maturation and Ig repertoire selection in 8 individuals from 3 different families with heterozygous loss-of-function or loss-of expression mutations in IGHD. Although naïve B cells from these individuals expressed IgM on their surface, the IGHD variant in heterozygous state entailed a chimeric situation by allelic exclusion with almost half of the naïve B cell population lacking surface IgD expression. Flow cytometric analyses revealed a distinct phenotype of IgD-negative naïve B cells with decreased expression of CD19, CD20 and CD21 as well as lower BAFF-R and integrin-β7 expression. IgD-negative B cells were less responsive in vitro after engaging the IgM-BCR, TLR7/9 or CD40 pathway. Additionally, a selective disadvantage of IgD-negative B cells within the T2 transitional and mature naïve B cell compartment as well as reduced frequencies of IgMlo/- B cells within the mature naïve B cell compartment lacking IgD were evident. RNA-Ig-seq of bulk sorted B cell populations showed an altered selection of distinct VH segments in the IgD-negative mature naïve B cell population. We conclude that IgD expression on human naïve B cells is redundant for generation of naïve B cells in general, but further shapes the naive B cell compartment starting from T2 transitional B cells. Our observations suggest an unexpected role of IgD expression to be critical for selection of distinct Ig VH segments into the pre-immune Ig repertoire and for the survival of IgMlo/- naïve B cells known to be enriched in poly-/autoreactive B cell clones.
Infections with influenza A viruses (IAV) cause seasonal epidemics and global pandemics. The majority of these infections remain asymptomatic, especially among children below five years of age. Importantly, this is a time, when immunological imprinting takes place. Whether early-life infections with IAV affect the development of antimicrobial immunity is unknown. Using a preclinical mouse model, we demonstrate here that silent neonatal influenza infections have a remote beneficial impact on the later control of systemic juvenile-onset and adult-onset infections with an unrelated pathogen, Staphylococcus aureus, due to improved pathogen clearance and clinical resolution. Strategic vaccination with a live attenuated IAV vaccine elicited a similar protection phenotype. Mechanistically, the IAV priming effect primarily targets antimicrobial functions of the developing innate immune system including increased antimicrobial plasma activity and enhanced phagocyte functions and antigen-presenting properties at mucosal sites. Our results suggest a long-term benefit from an exposure to IAV during the neonatal phase, which might be exploited by strategic vaccination against influenza early in life to enforce the host’s resistance to later bacterial infections.
Introduction
In patients with peripheral neuropathies (PNP), neuropathic pain is present in 50% of the cases, independent of the etiology. The pathophysiology of pain is poorly understood, and inflammatory processes have been found to be involved in neuro-degeneration, -regeneration and pain. While previous studies have found a local upregulation of inflammatory mediators in patients with PNP, there is a high variability described in the cytokines present systemically in sera and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). We hypothesized that the development of PNP and neuropathic pain is associated with enhanced systemic inflammation.
Methods
To test our hypothesis, we performed a comprehensive analysis of the protein, lipid and gene expression of different pro- and anti-inflammatory markers in blood and CSF from patients with PNP and controls.
Results
While we found differences between PNP and controls in specific cytokines or lipids, such as CCL2 or oleoylcarnitine, PNP patients and controls did not present major differences in systemic inflammatory markers in general. IL-10 and CCL2 levels were related to measures of axonal damage and neuropathic pain. Lastly, we describe a strong interaction between inflammation and neurodegeneration at the nerve roots in a specific subgroup of PNP patients with blood-CSF barrier dysfunction.
Conclusion
In patients with PNP systemic inflammatory, markers in blood or CSF do not differ from controls in general, but specific cytokines or lipids do. Our findings further highlight the importance of CSF analysis in patients with peripheral neuropathies.
The Carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 1 (CEACAM1), also known as CD66a, is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily. CEACAM1 was shown to be a prognostic marker in patients suffering from cancer. In this review, we summarize pre-clinical and clinical evidence linking CEACAM1 to tumorigenicity and cancer progression. Furthermore, we discuss potential CEACAM1-based mechanisms that may affect cancer biology.
The opportunities genetic engineering has created in the field of adoptive cellular therapy for cancer are accelerating the development of novel treatment strategies using chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) and T cell receptor (TCR) T cells. The great success in the context of hematologic malignancies has made especially CAR T cell therapy a promising approach capable of achieving long-lasting remission. However, the causalities involved in mediating resistance to treatment or relapse are still barely investigated. Research on T cell exhaustion and dysfunction has drawn attention to host-derived factors that define both the immune and tumor microenvironment (TME) crucially influencing efficacy and toxicity of cellular immunotherapy. The microbiome, as one of the most complex host factors, has become a central topic of investigations due to its ability to impact on health and disease. Recent findings support the hypothesis that commensal bacteria and particularly microbiota-derived metabolites educate and modulate host immunity and TME, thereby contributing to the response to cancer immunotherapy. Hence, the composition of microbial strains as well as their soluble messengers are considered to have predictive value regarding CAR T cell efficacy and toxicity. The diversity of mechanisms underlying both beneficial and detrimental effects of microbiota comprise various epigenetic, metabolic and signaling-related pathways that have the potential to be exploited for the improvement of CAR T cell function. In this review, we will discuss the recent findings in the field of microbiome-cancer interaction, especially with respect to new trajectories that commensal factors can offer to advance cellular immunotherapy.
Bullous pemphigoid is the most common autoimmune blistering disease in industrialized countries and particularly affects the elderly. In this patient population, comorbid diseases are frequent and may complicate management and treatment of bullous pemphigoid. A better understanding why distinct diseases are more frequent in bullous pemphigoid patients may lead to new pathophysiological insights and - as a consequence - result in better patient care. The association of bullous pemphigoid with neurological and psychiatric diseases is well known and confirmed by several case-control studies. Association with further diseases such as malignancy and metabolic diseases are still discussed controversially. In recent years new relationships between bullous pemphigoid and autoimmune as well as inflammatory skin diseases have been reported. This review provides a systematic overview on studies addressing comorbidity in bullous pemphigoid patients. Increasing the awareness of both, common and rare comorbid diseases, may enable clinicians to optimize patient support and individualized treatment of bullous pemphigoid.
Sufficient plant-available water is one of the most important requirements for vital, stable, and well-growing forest stands. In the face of climate change, there are various approaches to derive recommendations considering tree species selection based on plant-available water provided by measurements or simulations. Owing to the small-parcel management of Central European forests as well as small-spatial variation of soil and stand properties, in situ data collection for individual forest stands of large areas is not feasible, considering time and cost effort. This problem can be addressed using physically based modeling, aiming to numerically simulate the water balance. In this study, we parameterized, calibrated, and verified the hydrological multidimensional WaSiM-ETH model to assess the water balance at a spatial resolution of 30 m in a German forested catchment area (136.4 km2) for the period 2000–2021 using selected in situ data, remote sensing products, and total runoff. Based on the model output, drought-sensitive parameters, such as the difference between potential and effective stand transpiration (Tdiff) and the water balance, were deduced from the model, analyzed, and evaluated. Results show that the modeled evapotranspiration (ET) correlated significantly (R2 = 0.80) with the estimated ET using MODIS data (MOD16A2GFv006). Compared with observed daily, monthly, and annual runoff data, the model shows a good performance (R2: 0.70|0.77|0.73; Kling–Gupta efficiency: 0.59|0.62|0.83; volumetric efficiency: 0.52|0.60|0.83). The comparison with in situ data from a forest monitoring plot, established at the end of 2020, indicated good agreement between observed and simulated interception and soil water content. According to our results, WaSiM-ETH is a potential supplement for forest management, owing to its multidimensionality and the ability to model soil water balance for large areas at comparable high spatial resolution. The outputs offer, compared to non-distributed models (like LWF-Brook90), spatial differentiability, which is important for small-scale parceled forests, regarding stand structure and soil properties. Due to the spatial component offered, additional verification possibilities are feasible allowing a reliable and profound verification of the model and its parameterization.
In the Amazon basin, particles containing mixed sodium salts are routinely observed and are attributed to marine aerosols transported from the Atlantic Ocean. Using chemical imaging analysis, we show that, during the wet season, fungal spores emitted by the forest biosphere contribute at least 30% (by number) to sodium salt particles in the central Amazon basin. Hydration experiments indicate that sodium content in fungal spores governs their growth factors. Modeling results suggest that fungal spores account for ~69% (31–95%) of the total sodium mass during the wet season and that their fractional contribution increases during nighttime. Contrary to common assumptions that sodium-containing aerosols originate primarily from marine sources, our results suggest that locally-emitted fungal spores contribute substantially to the number and mass of coarse particles containing sodium. Hence, their role in cloud formation and contribution to salt cycles and the terrestrial ecosystem in the Amazon basin warrant further consideration.
Reinforcing hydrogels with micro-fibre scaffolds obtained by a Melt-Electrospinning Writing (MEW) process has demonstrated great promise for developing tissue engineered (TE) constructs with mechanical properties compatible to native tissues. However, the mechanical performance and reinforcement mechanism of the micro-fibre reinforced hydrogels is not yet fully understood. In this study, FE models, implementing material properties measured experimentally, were used to explore the reinforcement mechanism of fibre-hydrogel composites. First, a continuum FE model based on idealized scaffold geometry was used to capture reinforcement effects related to the suppression of lateral gel expansion by the scaffold, while a second micro-FE model based on micro-CT images of the real construct geometry during compaction captured the effects of load transfer through the scaffold interconnections. Results demonstrate that the reinforcement mechanism at higher scaffold volume fractions was dominated by the load carrying-ability of the fibre scaffold interconnections, which was much higher than expected based on testing scaffolds alone because the hydrogel provides resistance against buckling of the scaffold. We propose that the theoretical understanding presented in this work will assist the design of more effective composite constructs with potential applications in a wide range of TE conditions.