Cannabinoid type 2 receptor inhibition enhances the antidepressant and proneurogenic effects of physical exercise after chronic stress

Chronic stress is a major risk factor for neuropsychiatric conditions such as depression. Adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) has emerged as a promising target to counteract stress-related disorders given the ability of newborn neurons to facilitate endogenous plasticity. Recent data sheds light on the interaction between cannabinoids and neurotrophic factors underlying the regulation of AHN, with important effects on cognitive plasticity and emotional flexibility. Since physical exercise (PE) is known to enhance neurotrophic factor levels, we hypothesised that PE could engage with cannabinoids to influence AHN and that this would result in beneficial effects under stressful conditions. We therefore investigated the actions of modulating cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2R), which are devoid of psychotropic effects, in combination with PE in chronically stressed animals. We found that CB2R inhibition, but not CB2R activation, in combination with PE significantly ameliorated stress-evoked emotional changes and cognitive deficits. Importantly, this combined strategy critically shaped stress-induced changes in AHN dynamics, leading to a significant increase in the rates of cell proliferation and differentiation of newborn neurons, overall reduction in neuroinflammation, and increased hippocampal levels of BDNF. Together, these results show that CB2Rs are crucial regulators of the beneficial effects of PE in countering the effects of chronic stress. Our work emphasises the importance of understanding the mechanisms behind the actions of cannabinoids and PE and provides a framework for future therapeutic strategies to treat stress-related disorders that capitalise on lifestyle interventions complemented with endocannabinoid pharmacomodulation.

Demonstrating Agreement between Radio and Fluorescence Measurements of the Depth of Maximum of Extensive Air Showers at the Pierre Auger Observatory

We show, for the first time, radio measurements of the depth of shower maximum (X_{max}) of air showers induced by cosmic rays that are compared to measurements of the established fluorescence method at the same location. Using measurements at the Pierre Auger Observatory we show full compatibility between our radio and the previously published fluorescence dataset, and between a subset of air showers observed simultaneously with both radio and fluorescence techniques, a measurement setup unique to the Pierre Auger Observatory. Furthermore, we show radio X_{max} resolution as a function of energy and demonstrate the ability to make competitive high-resolution X_{max} measurements with even a sparse radio array. With this, we show that the radio technique is capable of cosmic-ray mass composition studies, both at Auger and at other experiments.

A systematic review of natural products for skin applications: Targeting inflammation, wound healing, and photo-aging

BACKGROUND

Every day the skin is constantly exposed to several harmful factors that induce oxidative stress. When the cells are incapable to maintain the balance between antioxidant defenses and reactive oxygen species, the skin no longer can keep its integrity and homeostasis. Chronic inflammation, premature skin aging, tissue damage, and immunosuppression are possible consequences induced by sustained exposure to environmental and endogenous reactive oxygen species. Skin immune and non-immune cells together with the microbiome are essential to efficiently trigger skin immune responses to stress. For this reason, an ever-increasing demand for novel molecules capable of modulating immune functions in the skin has risen the level of their development, particularly in the field of natural product-derived molecules.

PURPOSE

In this review, we explore different classes of molecules that showed evidence in modulate skin immune responses, as well as their target receptors and signaling pathways. Moreover, we describe the role of polyphenols, polysaccharides, fatty acids, peptides, and probiotics as possible treatments for skin conditions, including wound healing, infection, inflammation, allergies, and premature skin aging.

METHODS

Literature was searched, analyzed, and collected using databases, including PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. The search terms used included "Skin", "wound healing", "natural products", "skin microbiome", "immunomodulation", "anti-inflammatory", "antioxidant", "infection", "UV radiation", "polyphenols", "polysaccharides", "fatty acids", "plant oils", "peptides", "antimicrobial peptides", "probiotics", "atopic dermatitis", "psoriasis", "auto-immunity", "dry skin", "aging", etc., and several combinations of these keywords.

RESULTS

Natural products offer different solutions as possible treatments for several skin conditions. Significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities were reported, followed by the ability to modulate immune functions in the skin. Several membrane-bound immune receptors in the skin recognize diverse types of natural-derived molecules, promoting different immune responses that can improve skin conditions.

CONCLUSION

Despite the increasing progress in drug discovery, several limiting factors need future clarification. Understanding the safety, biological activities, and precise mechanisms of action is a priority as well as the characterization of the active compounds responsible for that. This review provides directions for future studies in the development of new molecules with important pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical value.

Use of Biometric Images to Predict Body Weight and Hot Carcass Weight of Nellore Cattle

The objective of this study was to evaluate different methods of predicting body weight (BW) and hot carcass weight (HCW) from biometric measurements obtained through three-dimensional images of Nellore cattle. We collected BW and HCW of 1350 male Nellore cattle (bulls and steers) from four different experiments. Three-dimensional images of each animal were obtained using the Kinect^® model 1473 sensor (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, WA, USA). Models were compared based on root mean square error estimation and concordance correlation coefficient. The predictive quality of the approaches used multiple linear regression (MLR); least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO); partial least square (PLS), and artificial neutral network (ANN) and was affected not only by the conditions (set) but also by the objective (BW vs. HCW). The most stable for BW was the ANN (Set 1: RMSEP = 19.68; CCC = 0.73; Set 2: RMSEP = 27.22; CCC = 0.66; Set 3: RMSEP = 27.23; CCC = 0.70; Set 4: RMSEP = 33.74; CCC = 0.74), which showed predictive quality regardless of the set analyzed. However, when evaluating predictive quality for HCW, the models obtained by LASSO and PLS showed greater quality over the different sets. Overall, the use of three-dimensional images was able to predict BW and HCW in Nellore cattle.

New-onset atrial fibrillation diagnosed by cardiac implantable devices in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is associated with high thromboembolic risk, morbidity, and mortality.

Purpose

We aimed to study the role of cardiac implantable devices (CID) for AF diagnosis in patients with HCM without prior AF history.

Methods

A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted using Pubmed, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov through November 2021 for studies reporting incidence of new-onset AF detected by CID including implantable cardioverter defibrillators, pacemakers, cardiac resynchronization therapy, and loop recorder devices in HCM patients. We used a Freeman-Tukey transformation to calculate the weighted summary proportion of the incidence of AF and stroke and pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model.

Results

Eight cohort studies were included, totalizing 910 patients with HCM and CID without baseline AF. Mean age was 54 years and 21% were female. Mean left ventricular wall thickness was 22.6 mm. Mean follow-up was 3.1 years. New-onset AF was detected in 27.6% (95% CI 18.7–37.5) of patients (Figure A) and 84% of the episodes were subclinical. Stroke occurred in 4.7% (95% CI 1.8–9.0) of patients without baseline AF (Figure B). There was no significant difference in the unadjusted risk of stroke between patients with newly diagnosed AF vs no AF detected at the end of follow-up (9.4% vs 4.7%, OR 1.93, 95% CI 0.83–4.48, p=0.13).

Conclusion

There is a high incidence of subclinical new-onset AF in patients with HCM, supporting the use of CID for early detection of AF in this population.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Omecamtiv mecarbil for the management of heart failure: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background

Omecamtiv mecarbil (OM) is a selective cardiac myosin activator that promotes contractility in patients with Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction (HFrEF). We aimed to study the clinical outcomes of OM in this population.

Methods

PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL Registry of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared OM with placebo for the management of HFrEF. Efficacy and safety data were summarized with odds ratios (OR) and a 95% confidence interval (CI) using a fixed-effect model predicting low heterogeneity between studies.

Results

Four RCTs were included, totalizing 9,364 patients, 4,779 treated with OM and 4,585 with placebo. Mean age ranged from 63–66 years, 15–22% female, ejection fraction 26–29%, ischemic etiology 53–66%. Length of follow up ranged from 1 to 21 months. There was no difference in the outcomes all cause death (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.9–1.1, p=0.91), cardiovascular death (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.91–1.12, p=0.87) and heart failure events or hospitalizations (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.87–1.05, p=0.35), Figure.

Conclusion

In a meta-analysis of 4 RCTs, OM showed no difference compared with placebo in the risk of all-cause death, cardiovascular death, or heart failure events among patients with HFrEF.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Respiratory disturbance index as a predictor of atrial fibrillation

Background

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a risk factor for development of atrial fibrillation (AF). Recent pacemakers have specific algorithms for detecting of OSA based on impedance measurement.

Purpose

The aim was to determine the burden of AF in patients with high respiratory disturbance index (RDI). It was also intended to determine if the onset of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) reduced the AF burden.

Methods

Retrospective observational study carried out through the analysis of the patient records. It included patients with pacemakers evaluated in an outpatient clinic during the first 8 months of 2018. All had the RDI algorithm. AF burden was assessed according to automatic mode switch (AMS) duration. The percentage of nights with an RDI>20/h was analysed to assess the risk of OSA.

Results

108 patients were included (mean age=70.3±9.0 years; 56.5% men). The most prevalent indication for cardiac pacing was atrioventricular node dysfunction (59.3%). The average percentage of nights with an RDI>20/h was 44.2%. The average follow-up (FU) period was 4.1 years.

Of all cardiovascular risk factors, diabetes mellitus was the only one associated with a higher incidence of AF at FU (p=0.044).

Considering just the patients with an RDI >20/h in more than 20% of nights (RDI20%), male gender was associated with higher rate of major adverse cardiovascular events [(acute myocardial infarction, stroke, acute heart failure and death) (p=0.019)].

Considering patients with AF prior to pacemaker implantation (n=34), 76% of patients had an RDI >20/h in more than 20% of nights (mean of 58.1%). 23 of these patients had long standing persistent AF at the end of FU (vs 17 at the beginnig of FU).

Considering patients who developed AF after pacemaker implantation (n=24), 58% of patients had an RDI>20/h in more than 20% of nights (mean of 45.3%). Most patients had paroxismal AF (83%).

Patients with prior paroxysmal AF or those who developed AF during FU (n=37) had a higher burden of AF at the end of FU when they had RDI >20/h in more than 50% of nights (mean burden of 24.66% vs 14.69%, p=0.005).

There was no statistically significant correlation between the percentage of nights with RDI >20/h and the Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI) value. Patients who underwent polysomnography (n=30) had a mean AHI of 16/h (which corresponds to moderately severe OSA). 63% of patients who were referred from the pacemaker consultation to pneumology and performed polysomnography started CPAP.

CPAP use was not associated with a statistically significant reduction in any endpoints or AF burden.

Conclusion

A high RDI was associated with onset of de novo AF and higher AF burden in patients with paroxysmal AF. Thus, there is a rationale for early diagnosis and treatment of OSAS to prevent and reduce AF progression.

In this study, CPAP was not shown to significantly reduce this endpoint, probably due to reduced polysomnography and CPAP treatment.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

A plethora of ocular surface manifestations in a multidisciplinary ocular graft-versus-host disease unit

To describe the experience in a recently created ocular graft-versus-host disease unit in a tertiary hospital and to detail ocular surface features and complications after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). This retrospective study included all patients who underwent allo-HSCT, with or without chronic GVHD and were being monitored in the Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation Unit in the UNICAMP Clinical Hospital (Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil) from 2015 to 2020. Patients were concomitantly evaluated by hematology and ophthalmology teams of the Ocular GVHD Unit. Hematologists performed a comprehensive systemic evaluation searching and grading mouth, skin, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, liver and genitalia GVHD. While ophthalmologists evaluated ocular symptoms through specific questionnaire (Ocular Surface Disease Index-OSDI) and a protocol of distinct ocular surface parameters for dry eye disease (1) and ocular complications, which encompassed meniscometry, non-invasive tear break-up time (NITBUT) measurement, conjunctival hyperemia quantification, meibography, fluorescein and lissamine staining and Schirmer's test. Patients were diagnosed with chronic GVHD using the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Consensus Criteria for Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease. The International Chronic Ocular GVHD Consensus Group (ICOGCG) score was obtained at the onset of ocular disease presentation or afterwards. A total of 82 patients underwent allo-HSCT (97.6% full matched and 2.4% haploidentical), mainly for cases of leukemia and 73.2% had chronic GVHD. Mean onset time for chronic GVHD was 232 ± 7.75 days. The mouth, skin, and eyes were the main organs involved (63%, 50%, and 48%, respectively). Symptom scores and all ocular surface parameters differ in patients with and without chronic GVHD and along different timepoints of the follow-up. Ocular complications mostly involved were severe DED and meibomian gland dysfunction, conjunctival scarring, cataract and infections resulting in keratitis and corneal perforation. As therapeutic strategies, 73% patients received preservative-free lubricants, 27% autologous serum, 48% topical steroids, 27% oral tetracycline derivatives, 22% mucolytic eye drops and 3 patients needed bandage contact lens. Ocular GVHD is a complex and challenging disease with varied manifestations, resulting in a broad range of ocular test endpoints, and inconsistent treatment responses. The main ocular presentations were dry eye, meibomian gland dysfunction and cataracts. The therapeutic approach often involves topical steroids and autologous serum tears. It is important to monitor these patients closely, so the ocular GVHD Unit may improve the care, providing prompt identification of ocular manifestations and faster treatment of complications.

155 Tibial Malrotation Following Intramedullary Nailing: A Literature Review

Aim

The use of intramedullary nail fixation remains the operation of choice for managing unstable and displaced tibia diaphyseal fractures. The literature shows that although commonly performed, there is not a standard approach when performing intramedullary nailing of the tibia; it could be hypothesised that this lack of standardisation may be contributing to the noted complications. This systematic review will look into intramedullary nailing of the tibia in all its parts, from identification of patients through to the surgical procedure techniques and finally the intra- and post-operative complications.

Method

Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used. Search terms included “tibial intramedullary nail” OR “tibial intramedullary rod” OR “tibial IM nail” OR “tibial interlock” AND “malrotation”, and “tibial intramedullary nailing” OR “tibial im nail” OR “tibial interlock” OR “tibial rod” AND “malrotation”.

Results

Eleven studies were considered in the final analysis, with a total number of 425 fractures (n=429, mean ± 95% CI=39 (21.2–56.8)). All included patients were treated with tibial intramedullary nail devices, and 110 showed some degree of malrotation postoperatively (n=110, mean ± 95% CI=10.1 (4.26–15.9)). Expressed as a percentage, a mean of 34.1% of patients had malrotation (mean ± 95% CI: 34.1 (15.8–52)).

Conclusions

This systematic review revealed there are gaps in the literature and in the management process of these patients and suggested that a systematic approach using ‘Get It Right First Time’ (GIRFT), intraoperative assessment, validated assessment tools, and imaging postoperatively should be used to improve outcomes.

OP0185 TOCILIZUMAB IN COMBINATION WITH 8 WEEKS OF PREDNISONE FOR GIANT CELL ARTERITIS

Background

Even with the use of tocilizumab (TCZ), significant glucocorticoid exposure (usually ≥ 6 months) continues to be an important problem in giant cell arteritis (GCA).

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tocilizumab (TCZ) in combination with 2 months of prednisone in a group of patients with GCA.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, single arm, open-label study of TCZ in combination with 2 months of prednisone for new-onset and relapsing GCA patients with active disease (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT03726749). GCA diagnosis required confirmation by temporal artery biopsy or vascular imaging. Active disease was defined as presence of cranial or polymyalgia rheumatica symptoms necessitating treatment within 6 weeks of baseline. All patients received TCZ 162 mg subcutaneously every week for 12 months and an 8-week prednisone taper starting between 20 mg and 60 mg daily (Figure 1). The primary endpoint, sustained prednisone-free remission, was defined as absence of relapse from induction of remission up to week 52 while adhering to the prednisone taper. Relapse was defined as the recurrence of symptoms of GCA requiring treatment intensification regardless of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Safety was also evaluated.

Figure 1.

Clinical Trial Schema

Results

Between 11/2018 and 11/2020 we enrolled 30 patients (mean age 74 years, 60% females, 50% new-onset disease, 77% temporal artery biopsy-proven, 47% imaging-proven). The mean ESR and CRP at screening were 45 mm/hour and 48 mg/L, respectively. The initial prednisone dose was 60 mg (n = 7), 50 mg (n = 1), 40 mg (n = 7), 30 mg (n = 6) and 20 mg (n = 9). All patients entered remission within 4 weeks of baseline. The primary endpoint was achieved by 23 (77%) patients (Table 1). The mean (SD) cumulative prednisone dose in these 23 patients was 1052 (390) mg. After a mean period of 16 weeks, 7 (23%) patients relapsed (Table 1). All relapses but one occurred after the completion of the study prednisone taper. Overall, 6 of the 7 patients with relapse received a second prednisone taper over 8 weeks. Of these 6 patients, 4 achieved and maintained remission for the remainder of the trial period, and 2 withdrew from the study after having a second relapse. One patient with relapse received a second prednisone taper over 26 weeks and stayed in remission until the end of the study. The mean (SD) cumulative prednisone dose in the 7 patients with relapse was 1883 (699) mg (Table 1). Overall, 4 (13%) participants developed a serious adverse event (Table 1). No cases of ischemia-related visual symptoms including permanent vision loss occurred during the study.

Table 1.

Efficacy and Safety Outcomes

GCA patients(n = 30)Efficacy Sustained, prednisone-free remission by week 5223.0 (76.7)   Cumulative prednisone dose (mg) at week 52, mean (SD)1051.5 (390.3) Relapse7.0 (23.3)   Time to relapse, weeks: mean (SD)15.8 (14.7)   Prednisone dose (mg/day) at relapse, mean (SD)2.1 (5.2)   Cumulative prednisone dose (mg), mean (SD)1883.1 (699.2)   Clinical manifestations at relapse    Cranial symptoms4 out of 7 patients    Ischemic visual symptoms0 out of 7 patients    PMR symptoms4 out of 7 patientsSafety Serious adverse events4.0 (13.3)   Cellulitis1   COVID-191   Fragility fracture1   Cholecystitis1

Values represent number and (%) unless otherwise specified. SD, standard deviation; PMR, polymyalgia rheumatica

Conclusion

These results suggest that 12 months of TCZ in combination with 8 weeks of prednisone could be efficacious for inducing and maintaining disease remission in patients with GCA. Confirmation of these findings in a randomized controlled trial is required.

Disclosure of Interests

Sebastian Unizony Consultant of: Kiniksa, Sanofi, Janssen, GSK, Grant/research support from: Janssen, Genentech, Mark Matza: None declared, Adam Jarvie: None declared, Ana Fernandes: None declared, John H. Stone Consultant of: Roche/Genentech, Grant/research support from: Roche/Genentech

Treatment of fruit processing wastewater by electrochemical and activated persulfate processes: Toxicological and energetic evaluation

A fruit processing wastewater was submitted to different advanced oxidation processes, namely, electro-Fenton (EF), electrochemical oxidation (EO), activated persulfate (PS), and combined EF/PS. The performance of the treatment processes, at different experimental conditions, regarding organic load removal, biodegradability increment, toxicity reduction, and specific energy consumption (E_sp), was evaluated. At the experimental conditions studied, EO led to the treated solutions with the highest biodegradability increment, from 0.24 to 0.48, and toxicity reduction towards Daphnia magna, from 5.8 to 1.5 toxic units, without requiring the addition of chemicals. Nevertheless, the highest chemical oxygen demand (COD) removals were obtained for EF and combined EF/PS treatments. For the electrochemical processes, an increase in COD removal rate with applied current density (j) was observed. However, the increase in j substantially raised the E_sp. In PS treatment, COD removals above 80% were only achieved for high amounts of added persulfate and iron, which led to less biodegradable and more toxic solutions. Combined EF/PS attained the lowest E_sp values, mainly due to the conductivity increase originated by the persulfate and iron salts addition. Besides the disadvantage of the chemicals added, this combined treatment led to treated solutions with very acidic pH and significant iron content.

The power of feeling seen: perspectives of individuals with eating disorders on receiving validation

BACKGROUND

A common complaint of individuals suffering from mental health conditions is feeling invalidated or misunderstood by care providers. This is notable, given that non-collaborative care has been linked to poor engagement, low motivation and treatment non-adherence. This study examined how receiving validation from care providers is experienced by individuals who have an eating disorder (ED) and the impact of receiving validation on the recovery journey.

METHODS

Eighteen individuals who had an eating disorder for an average duration of 19.1 years (two identifying as male, 16 identifying as female), participated in semi-structured interviews on barriers and facilitators to self-compassion. Seven were fully recovered, and 11 were currently participating in recovery-focused residential treatment. Thematic analysis focused on the meaning and impact of receiving validation to participants.

RESULTS

Five care provider actions were identified: (i) making time and space for me, (ii) offering a compassionate perspective, (iii) understanding and recognizing my treatment needs, (iv) showing me I can do this, and (v) walking the runway. These were associated with four key experiences (feeling trust, cared for, empowered, and inspired), that participants described as supportive of their recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

This research provides insight into patient perspectives of validation and strategies care providers can use, such as compassionate reframing of difficult life experiences, matching interventions to patient readiness, and modeling vulnerability.

Predictors of patient and system delay for primary percutaneous coronary intervention

Background

The delay times of the patient and the system for primary percutaneous coronary intervention (p-PCI) have a determining impact on the prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction with ST segment elevation (STEMI).

Purpose

To identify the predictors of patient and system delay for p-PCI in the period of 2020 at a reference hospital for p-PCI.

Methods

Patients submitted to p-PCI in the period from March to September 2020 were included and compared with the same period in 2019. We analyzed the differences between the two groups regarding the patient's delay times, time from the onset of symptoms to the first medical contact (FCM) and the system (time from the first contact with the health system to p-ICP). Data collection of the patient's previous history, coronary intervention performed and post-PCI follow-up was performed using the electronic patient record. Univariate analysis and logistic regression models from multivariate analysis were used to determine the predictors of “patient delay” and “system delay” and adjusted for confounding factors. The analysis was performed with a significance level of 5%.

Results

We included in the study 255 patients who underwent p-PCI, of which 122 in the period from 2020 and 133 in the period from 2019. Regarding the characteristics of the population, there were no significant differences between the two periods. Regarding the patient's delay time, there were no statistically significant differences. The variable first medical contact with a non p-PCI center was the only variable associated with system delay>90 minutes in the multivariate analysis, OR (6.18: 95% CI, 1.91–20), p=0.002. There was a statistically significant association between the period of 2020 (pandemic period) and total ischemia time, but with a negative effect, dependent variable adjusted for confounding factors [adjusted OR: −0.10; 95% CI: −107.61 to −5.57; p=0.03].

Conclusion

In this study, the patient's admission to a non p-PCI centers was identified as the only predictor of longer delay until p-PCI (system delay). However, these results should serve as a contribution to decision making in order to mitigate risks, regardless of any associated catastrophe and eventually alert the population not to neglect the symptoms suspected of acute myocardial infarction.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

PSX-A-1 Late-Breaking: A fully automated system for 3D image acquisition, classification and processing for real-time monitoring growth of finishing cattle in feedlots

Computer vision has been proposed as an alternative to monitor livestock growth, for example using 3D cameras to estimate body weight and condition. However, implementing this technology outdoors and with unrestrained animals poses a great challenge, because of harsh conditions for the equipment, as well as varying lighting and animal movement. Here we propose an automated system to acquire 3D images of individual animals, integrate the animal ID in the image file, and process images. This comprises a fundamental step for implementing a real-time assessment tool of growth of animals grouped in pens, to aid optimal feed management and marketing decision. The study comprised 50 beef cattle of Nellore breed during a finishing phase at DSM Innovation and Applied Center, in Brazil. Animals were tagged with RFID eartags, and 5 Intel RealSense D435 cameras were installed on the top of the water sources in each pen. For each animal approaching the water tank, an RFID antenna read the animal ID and triggered the camera to acquire a top-down view image. Images were then sent to a central computer using Wi-Fi, and later to the cloud. A decision tree algorithm was trained to sort images as usable or unusable, where the retained images had one single animal on the frame, with full body and relatively straight position. Selected frames were then processed using a threshold Otsu’s method to segment the animal body and obtain the necessary biological features, including body length, multiple width and height values, body area and volume. A total of 16,000+ images were collected, from which 3,100 were deemed usable. The algorithm successfully extracted the animal body from each image and obtained the biological features (cross-correlation values above 0.90). The proposed system was demonstrated to be extremely promising and the next stage of the study will be devoted to individual body weight prediction.

Studies of multifunctional DNA polymerase I from the extremely radiation resistant Deinococcus radiodurans: Recombinant expression, purification and characterization of the full-length protein and its large fragment

Deinococcus radiodurans is a bacterium with extreme resistance to desiccation and radiation. Although the origins of this extreme resistance have not been fully elucidated, an efficient DNA repair machinery that includes the enzyme DNA polymerase I, is potentially crucial as part of a protection mechanism. Here we have cloned and performed small, medium, and large-scale expression of full-length D. radiodurans DNA polymerase I (DrPolI) as well as the large/Klenow fragment (DrKlenow). We then carried out functional characterization of 5' exonuclease, DNA strand displacement and polymerase activities of these proteins using gel-based and molecular beacon-based biochemical assays. With the same expression and purification strategy, we got higher yield in the production of DrKlenow than of the full-length protein, approximately 2.5 mg per liter of culture. Moreover, we detected a prominent 5' exonuclease activity of DrPolI in vitro. This activity and, DrKlenow strand displacement and DNA polymerase activities are preferentially stimulated at pH 8.0-8.5 and are reduced by addition of NaCl. Interestingly, both protein variants are more thermostable at pH 6.0-6.5. The characterization of DrPolI's multiple functions provides new insights into the enzyme's role in DNA repair pathways, and how the modulation of these functions is potentially used by D. radiodurans as a survival strategy.

Online gaming dependency, attention levels and sleep quality among online gamers

Introduction

The persistent and recurrent use of the internet to engage in games, often with other players, which leads to clinically considerable deficits and online dependency still lacks more research support its impact of attentional levels and Sleep Quality.

Objectives

To assess levels of Online Gaming Dependency, its impact on attention levels and quality of sleep among online gamers.

Methods

The following instruments were used: a sociodemographic questionnaire, as well as the Video Game Behavior Assessment Scale (α = .842) and the Portuguese version of Color and Words Stroop Test. The sample consists of 66 individuals, 92.3% male and 7.7% female, with an average age of 23.1 (SD ± 4.07).

Results

Mild levels of online gaming dependency were obtained. Male gamers presented higher motivation to play online games, and higher levels of Stroop interference. Regarding the association between gaming behaviors and quality of sleep, results show that individuals who have difficulty falling asleep show greater motivation to play online games, a greater degree of concern with daily life and a greater frequency of negative behaviors in relation to online gambling.

Conclusions

The results show the importance of an increase in investigations in this area, as well as to the development of psychological assessment instruments and psychological intervention strategies, based on scientific evidence, on the different variables under study, in order to improve the quality of life in of individuals.

240 Enhancing beef production and quality using big data analytics and computer vision techniques

In this presentation we will discuss our current research on computer vision techniques for optimized management of feed bunks and prediction of live weight in beef cattle. The combination of these two techniques allows not only an enhanced nutritional management in feedlots, but also the determination of economically optimal harvest time for maximized returns. In addition, we will discuss computational and data analytics strategies for integration and analysis of large datasets from multiple sources, including operational farm data, weather and economics, for aiding data-driven decisions to improve beef cattle production.

NEOTROPICAL CARNIVORES: a data set on carnivore distribution in the Neotropics

Mammalian carnivores are considered a key group in maintaining ecological health and can indicate potential ecological integrity in landscapes where they occur. Carnivores also hold high conservation value and their habitat requirements can guide management and conservation plans. The order Carnivora has 84 species from 8 families in the Neotropical region: Canidae; Felidae; Mephitidae; Mustelidae; Otariidae; Phocidae; Procyonidae; and Ursidae. Herein, we include published and unpublished data on native terrestrial Neotropical carnivores (Canidae; Felidae; Mephitidae; Mustelidae; Procyonidae; and Ursidae). NEOTROPICAL CARNIVORES is a publicly available data set that includes 99,605 data entries from 35,511 unique georeferenced coordinates. Detection/non-detection and quantitative data were obtained from 1818 to 2018 by researchers, governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private consultants. Data were collected using several methods including camera trapping, museum collections, roadkill, line transect, and opportunistic records. Literature (peer-reviewed and grey literature) from Portuguese, Spanish and English were incorporated in this compilation. Most of the data set consists of detection data entries (n = 79,343; 79.7%) but also includes non-detection data (n = 20,262; 20.3%). Of those, 43.3% also include count data (n = 43,151). The information available in NEOTROPICAL CARNIVORES will contribute to macroecological, ecological, and conservation questions in multiple spatio-temporal perspectives. As carnivores play key roles in trophic interactions, a better understanding of their distribution and habitat requirements are essential to establish conservation management plans and safeguard the future ecological health of Neotropical ecosystems. Our data paper, combined with other large-scale data sets, has great potential to clarify species distribution and related ecological processes within the Neotropics. There are no copyright restrictions and no restriction for using data from this data paper, as long as the data paper is cited as the source of the information used. We also request that users inform us of how they intend to use the data.

Metabolically healthy obesity in a young population assisted by the Family Health Strategy in Brazil

Background

Obesity is increasing in younger populations, and is associated with a high cardiovascular (CV) risk, however, it is not clear whether metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) may have a lower CV risk or if it is just an earlier stage of the disease.

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence and CV risk factors associated with MHO in a young population assisted by a Family Health Care unit in a large urban center in Brazil.

Methods

A cross-sectional population study for CV risk assessment in adults aged 20-50 years old from a FHC unit in Rio de Janeiro. Demographic, anthropometric data and CV risk factors were recorded. All underwent office blood pressure (OBP) measurements, laboratory evaluation (lipid and glycidic profile). Obesity was defined as a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 and MHO are those who have less than 3 of the following criteria: hypertension, diabetes, total cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dL, HDL<40 mg/dL (men) and 50 mg/dL (women), triglycerides>150 mg/dL and increased waist circumference.

Results

A total of 632 individuals were evaluated (60% female; mean age 37 ± 9 years). The prevalence of obesity was 26%, of which 73% were classified as MHO. Obeses are older, with a higher prevalence of physical inactivity (51% vs 41%, p = 0.03), hypertension (44% vs 19%, p < 0.001), dyslipidemia (50% vs 36%, p = 0.002) and diabetes (7% vs 2%, p = 0.001) with higher systolic OBP. MHO compared to unhealthy ones are significantly younger and smoke less. Despite being obese, they have lower BMI (33.6 vs 35.2 kg/m2, p = 0.02) and abdominal circumference (102 vs 110 cm, p = 0.03), with lower diastolic BP.

Conclusions

MHO was more prevalent in this young population and seems to have a lower CV risk, however it is not clear whether these younger and less obese individuals are only at an earlier stage of the disease. Perhaps the CV diseases onset is postponed for a few years. Even so, these individuals should not be excluded from public health policies as a form of primary prevention.

Key messages

In this young population, MHO was more prevalent and presented a lower CV risk. The follow-up of MHO will show if they are really healthy or if they are at an early stage of the disease.

Cardiovascular risk factors and social determinants in a population study in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Background

The association of cardiovascular (CV) diseases and their risk factors with socioeconomic status has been well described, but its influence is often underestimated in epidemiological studies in Brazil.

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between the main CV risk factors and socioeconomic indicators in a population of adults registered in a Family Health Care (FHC) unit in a great urban center - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Methods

Cross-sectional population study that included adults aged between 20 and 50 years living in the area covered by the FHC unit in Rio de Janeiro. Demographic data (gender and age), socioeconomic data (education level, profession, employment), CV risk factors (smoking, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia) were recorded. The metabolic profile is evaluated through laboratory tests. Those who studied up to high school were considered poorly educated.

Results

604 individuals were enrolled [39% male, mean age: 38.8 ± 8,9 years] The median of schooling was 12 years. 288 individuals had high schooling, 44.5% were male. A total of 130 individuals did not study or work. Women with low education had a higher risk of smoking, obesity and hypertension with no difference regarding labor or study activities. Otherwise, men with low education had a higher risk of sedentary lifestyle and hypertension. Among men, not working or studying increased the risk of smoking and hypertension.

Conclusions

We found an inverse association between socioeconomic conditions and the prevalence of CV risk factors. Women are more affected by low schooling, while men are more affected by their working occupation. The study suggests that socioeconomic factors influence the CV risk, affecting men and women differently, pointing to the need for more comprehensive public health policies that effectively reverse this situation.

Key messages

We found an inverse association between socioeconomic conditions and the prevalence of CV risk factors. Socioeconomic factors influence cardiovascular risk differently according to gender.

P3563The influence of circadian patterand obstructive sleep apnean of blood pressure in nocturnal arrhythmias in hypertensive patients

Introduction

There is growing evidence suggesting hypertension is related to the occurrence of arrhythmias. When occurring predominantly during the night, two potential entities commonly present in hypertensive patients could be related with increased arrhythmogenesis: (1) the lack of normal nocturnal dipping of blood pressure (BP) (non-dipping pattern of hypertension) or (2) obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Thus, nocturnal arrhythmias (NAs) can identify hypertensive patients with OSA and/or non-dipping pattern, both related with adverse outcomes.

Aims

To determine if NAs are related with non-dipping hypertension, OSA or both.

Methods

We studied hypertensive patients who performed ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) and also polysomnography and 24-hour Holter monitoring. Non-dipping pattern was considered when nocturnal BP reduction was inferior to 10%. Based on Holter monitoring, NAs were present when atrial fibrillation, frequent premature atrial contractions (PACs) (>30 PACs/hour), runs of >4 consecutive PACs, frequent premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) (>30PVCs/hour) or runs of >4 consecutive PVCs were present predominantly during sleeping hours. During polyssonography, apnoea/hypopnoea index (AHI) and oxygen saturation (SaO2) were analysed. Moderate to severe OSA was considered when AHI >15.

Results

We studied 104 patients [median age 62 (54–70) years, 65% male): 42 (40%) had moderate to severe OSA (median AHI=11 (6–26), mean SaO2=94% (92–95)] and 64 (61%) were non-dippers. NAs occurred in 18 patients (17%) and they were independently associated with AHI (Odds Ratio (OR) for a one unit increase 1.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–1.07, p=0.03) but not with SaO2 (OR 0.96, CI 0.78–1.19, p=0.73) nor non-dipping pattern (OR 1.23, CI 0.38–3.98, p=0.72). No interaction was found between OSA and non-dipping hypertension (p=0.35). In patients with dipping pattern (n=40), AHI was higher in NAs patients comparing with no NAs patients (median AHI 29 versus 10, p=0.04), while in those with non-dipping pattern (n=64), AHI was not statistically different between patients with and without NAs (21 versus 11, p=0.12) (figure).

Figure 1

Conclusion

In this population of hypertensive patients, the presence of NAs was associated with OSA severity (i.e AHI), but not with the non-dipping pattern of hypertension. The importance of obstructive events in arrhythmogenesis seemed to be more pronounced in dipping patients, suggesting the abnormal high blood pressure during the night may also have some impact on NAs in non-dipping patients. Overall, our results suggest that OSA screening should be considered when nocturnal arrhythmias are detected in hypertensive patients, but ABPM should not be forgotten since multiple mechanisms can be involved in nocturnal arrhythmogenesis.

NEOTROPICAL XENARTHRANS: a data set of occurrence of xenarthran species in the Neotropics

Xenarthrans-anteaters, sloths, and armadillos-have essential functions for ecosystem maintenance, such as insect control and nutrient cycling, playing key roles as ecosystem engineers. Because of habitat loss and fragmentation, hunting pressure, and conflicts with domestic dogs, these species have been threatened locally, regionally, or even across their full distribution ranges. The Neotropics harbor 21 species of armadillos, 10 anteaters, and 6 sloths. Our data set includes the families Chlamyphoridae (13), Dasypodidae (7), Myrmecophagidae (3), Bradypodidae (4), and Megalonychidae (2). We have no occurrence data on Dasypus pilosus (Dasypodidae). Regarding Cyclopedidae, until recently, only one species was recognized, but new genetic studies have revealed that the group is represented by seven species. In this data paper, we compiled a total of 42,528 records of 31 species, represented by occurrence and quantitative data, totaling 24,847 unique georeferenced records. The geographic range is from the southern United States, Mexico, and Caribbean countries at the northern portion of the Neotropics, to the austral distribution in Argentina, Paraguay, Chile, and Uruguay. Regarding anteaters, Myrmecophaga tridactyla has the most records (n = 5,941), and Cyclopes sp. have the fewest (n = 240). The armadillo species with the most data is Dasypus novemcinctus (n = 11,588), and the fewest data are recorded for Calyptophractus retusus (n = 33). With regard to sloth species, Bradypus variegatus has the most records (n = 962), and Bradypus pygmaeus has the fewest (n = 12). Our main objective with Neotropical Xenarthrans is to make occurrence and quantitative data available to facilitate more ecological research, particularly if we integrate the xenarthran data with other data sets of Neotropical Series that will become available very soon (i.e., Neotropical Carnivores, Neotropical Invasive Mammals, and Neotropical Hunters and Dogs). Therefore, studies on trophic cascades, hunting pressure, habitat loss, fragmentation effects, species invasion, and climate change effects will be possible with the Neotropical Xenarthrans data set. Please cite this data paper when using its data in publications. We also request that researchers and teachers inform us of how they are using these data.

Design of gamma-ray spectrometers optimized for fast particle studies at ITER

A set of gamma ray spectrometers has been designed for ITER within the Radial Gamma Ray Spectrometer (RGRS) project. The aim of this project is designing a system, integrated with the ITER radial neutron camera, which is able to measure the gamma-rays emitted from the plasma with a good energy resolution (about 1.5% at 4.44 MeV) and at high counting rates (in excess of 1 MHz). The RGRS will be able to operate both in the D phase and in the full-power DT phase and will measure gamma rays from (i) reactions between fast ions, such as α particles, and light impurities and (ii) bremsstrahlung emission generated by runaway electron interactions with both plasma bulk and tokamak walls. The RGRS detectors are arranged in nine lines of sights (able to cover a radial region with r < a/3), each featuring a large LaBr₃ scintillator crystal. Due to the high neutron flux and magnetic field, several solutions have been adopted to guarantee a good signal to background ratio and MHz counting rate capabilities. The RGRS is capable to combine space and energy distribution measurements of α particles and runaway electrons, which will help the study of the fast particle physics in a burning plasma.

High resolution gamma-ray spectrometer with MHz capabilities for runaway electron studies at ASDEX Upgrade

A new gamma-ray spectrometer with MHz capabilities has been developed to measure the bremsstrahlung emission spectrum in the gamma-ray energy band generated by MeV range runaway electrons in disruption experiments at ASDEX Upgrade. Properties of the runaway electrons are inferred from the measured bremsstrahlung spectrum by a deconvolution technique, particularly with regard to their maximum energy. Changes induced to the runaway electron velocity space are unambiguously observed both in massive gas injection and resonant magnetic perturbation experiments with the detector.

The upgraded JET gamma-ray cameras based on high resolution/high count rate compact spectrometers

The JET gamma-ray cameras have been recently upgraded within the gamma-ray camera upgrade project in support of development of JET high performance deuterium plasma scenarios and in preparation of deuterium-tritium experiments. New, dedicated detectors based on a LaBr₃ crystal and silicon photo-multipliers have been developed and replaced pre-existing CsI detectors in all 19 channels. The new instrument gives opportunity of making two-dimensional gamma-ray measurements with a counting rate capability exceeding 1 MCounts/s (MCps) and energy resolution better than 5% at 1.1 MeV. The upgrade is of relevance for fast ion and runaway electron physics studies in high performance deuterium discharges and also in plasmas with tritium at neutron yields in the range up to about 5 × 10¹⁷ n/s.

Molecular epidemiology of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) isolated from milk of cows with subclinical mastitis

Bovine mastitis has been a concern for dairy herd for decades. The adaptation capacity of one of the main species responsible for this disease, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), plays a pivotal role in this issue. The aim of this study was to establish a molecular and phenotypic profile of 285 S. aureus strains isolated from milk of subclinical mastitis cows from 18 different farms in São Paulo State using spa typing, multilocus sequence typing (MLST), pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), agr cluster (I, II, III and IV) typing, PCR for genes including enterotoxins (sea, seb, sec, sed, see, seg, seh, sei), toxic shock syndrome toxin (tsst-1), and Panton-Valentine leucocidin (pvl), as well as in vitro resistance assays for 12 antibiotics. The results showed a wide variety of strains with a high toxigenic potential; concomitantly, sec, seg and seh were prevalent. In addition, we observed a predominance of the spa types t605 (ST 126, CC126) and t127 (ST1, CC1) and the unusual presence of t321 causing bovine mastitis, which has been previously reported only in swine. The most frequent ST were ST126 (70.5%) and ST1 (10.5%). Regarding PFGE, we observed four major groups and six profile patterns. The highest resistance was observed for streptomycin (9.5%), followed by tetracycline (3.5%), clindamycin (9.3%), and erythromycin (2.8%). The tsst-1 gene was detected in 36.8% of isolates and pvl was not observed. One hundred and thirty-six (47.7%) isolates possessed agr type II, followed by types III (20%) and I (8.1%), with type IV not being detected. We observed that the same spa type could result in different PFGE profiles, so the exclusive use of spa type sequences can lead to incorrect interpretations regarding the spread of clones in an epidemiological context.