PTER is a N-acetyltaurine hydrolase that regulates feeding and obesity.

Taurine is a conditionally essential micronutrient and one of the most abundant amino acids in humans1-3. In endogenous taurine metabolism, dedicated enzymes are involved in the biosynthesis of taurine from cysteine and in the downstream metabolism of secondary taurine metabolites4,5. One taurine metabolite is N-acetyltaurine6. Levels of N-acetyltaurine are dynamically regulated by stimuli that alter taurine or acetate flux, including endurance exercise7, dietary taurine supplementation8 and alcohol consumption6,9. So far, the identities of the enzymes involved in N-acetyltaurine metabolism, and the potential functions of N-acetyltaurine itself, have remained unknown. Here we show that the body mass index associated orphan enzyme phosphotriesterase-related (PTER)10 is a physiological N-acetyltaurine hydrolase. In vitro, PTER catalyses the hydrolysis of N-acetyltaurine to taurine and acetate. In mice, PTER is expressed in the kidney, liver and brainstem. Genetic ablation of Pter in mice results in complete loss of tissue N-acetyltaurine hydrolysis activity and a systemic increase in N-acetyltaurine levels. After stimuli that increase taurine levels, Pter knockout mice exhibit reduced food intake, resistance to diet-induced obesity and improved glucose homeostasis. Administration of N-acetyltaurine to obese wild-type mice also reduces food intake and body weight in a GFRAL-dependent manner. These data place PTER into a central enzymatic node of secondary taurine metabolism and uncover a role for PTER and N-acetyltaurine in body weight control and energy balance.

The role of somatosensory innervation of adipose tissues.

Adipose tissues communicate with the central nervous system to maintain whole-body energy homeostasis. The mainstream view is that circulating hormones secreted by the fat convey the metabolic state to the brain, which integrates peripheral information and regulates adipocyte function through noradrenergic sympathetic output1. Moreover, somatosensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglia innervate adipose tissue2. However, the lack of genetic tools to selectively target these neurons has limited understanding of their physiological importance. Here we developed viral, genetic and imaging strategies to manipulate sensory nerves in an organ-specific manner in mice. This enabled us to visualize the entire axonal projection of dorsal root ganglia from the soma to subcutaneous adipocytes, establishing the anatomical underpinnings of adipose sensory innervation. Functionally, selective sensory ablation in adipose tissue enhanced the lipogenic and thermogenetic transcriptional programs, resulting in an enlarged fat pad, enrichment of beige adipocytes and elevated body temperature under thermoneutral conditions. The sensory-ablation-induced phenotypes required intact sympathetic function. We postulate that beige-fat-innervating sensory neurons modulate adipocyte function by acting as a brake on the sympathetic system. These results reveal an important role of the innervation by dorsal root ganglia of adipose tissues, and could enable future studies to examine the role of sensory innervation of disparate interoceptive systems.

CYP4F2 is a human-specific determinant of circulating N-acyl amino acid levels.

N-acyl amino acids are a large family of circulating lipid metabolites that modulate energy expenditure and fat mass in rodents. However, little is known about the regulation and potential cardiometabolic functions of N-acyl amino acids in humans. Here, we analyze the cardiometabolic phenotype associations and genomic associations of four plasma N-acyl amino acids (N-oleoyl-leucine, N-oleoyl-phenylalanine, N-oleoyl-serine, and N-oleoyl-glycine) in 2351 individuals from the Jackson Heart Study. We find that plasma levels of specific N-acyl amino acids are associated with cardiometabolic disease endpoints independent of free amino acid plasma levels and in patterns according to the amino acid head group. By integrating whole genome sequencing data with N-acyl amino acid levels, we identify that the genetic determinants of N-acyl amino acid levels also cluster according to the amino acid head group. Furthermore, we identify the CYP4F2 locus as a genetic determinant of plasma N-oleoyl-leucine and N-oleoyl-phenylalanine levels in human plasma. In experimental studies, we demonstrate that CYP4F2-mediated hydroxylation of N-oleoyl-leucine and N-oleoyl-phenylalanine results in metabolic diversification and production of many previously unknown lipid metabolites with varying characteristics of the fatty acid tail group, including several that structurally resemble fatty acid hydroxy fatty acids. These studies provide a structural framework for understanding the regulation and disease associations of N-acyl amino acids in humans and identify that the diversity of this lipid signaling family can be significantly expanded through CYP4F-mediated ω-hydroxylation.

Delphi Consensus on Diagnostic Criteria for LUMBAR Syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: To develop consensus on diagnostic criteria for LUMBAR syndrome, the association of segmental infantile hemangiomas that affect the Lower body with Urogenital anomalies, Ulceration, spinal cord Malformations, Bony defects, Anorectal malformations, Arterial anomalies and/or Renal anomalies. STUDY DESIGN: These diagnostic criteria were developed by an expert multidisciplinary and multi-institutional team based on analysis of peer-reviewed data, followed by electronic-Delphi consensus of a panel of 61 international pediatric specialists. RESULTS: After 2 Delphi rounds, a 92% or higher level of agreement was reached for each Delphi statement. 98% of panelists agreed with the diagnostic criteria, and 100% agreed the criteria would be useful in clinical practice. The diagnosis of LUMBAR requires the presence of a segmental, or patterned, infantile hemangioma of the lumbosacral, sacrococcygeal, or pelvic cutaneous regions plus one additional criterion of the urogenital, spinal, bony, anorectal, arterial, or renal organ systems. CONCLUSIONS: These diagnostic criteria will enhance clinical care by improving screening, detection, and overall awareness of this poorly understood neurocutaneous disorder. The criteria can be utilized by a wide variety of pediatric subspecialists. In addition, formal criteria will improve phenotypic uniformity among LUMBAR syndrome cohorts and a patient registry, allowing investigators to assess clinical features, long-term outcomes, and results of genetic sequencing in a standardized manner. Finally, these criteria will serve as a starting point for prospective studies to establish formal screening and management guidelines.

Multicenter Study of Long-Term Outcomes and Quality of Life in PHACE Syndrome after Age 10.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize long-term outcomes of PHACE syndrome. STUDY DESIGN: Multicenter study with cross-sectional interviews and chart review of individuals with definite PHACE syndrome ≥10 years of age. Data from charts were collected across multiple PHACE-related topics. Data not available in charts were collected from patients directly. Likert scales were used to assess the impact of specific findings. Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) scales were used to assess quality of life domains. RESULTS: A total of 104/153 (68%) individuals contacted participated in the study at a median of 14 years of age (range 10-77 years). There were infantile hemangioma (IH) residua in 94.1%. Approximately one-half had received laser treatment for residual IH, and the majority (89.5%) of participants were satisfied or very satisfied with the appearance. Neurocognitive manifestations were common including headaches/migraines (72.1%), participant-reported learning differences (45.1%), and need for individualized education plans (39.4%). Cerebrovascular arteriopathy was present in 91.3%, with progression identified in 20/68 (29.4%) of those with available follow-up imaging reports. Among these, 6/68 (8.8%) developed moyamoya vasculopathy or progressive stenoocclusion, leading to isolated circulation at or above the level of the circle of Willis. Despite the prevalence of cerebrovascular arteriopathy, the proportion of those with ischemic stroke was low (2/104; 1.9%). PROMIS global health scores were lower than population norms by at least 1 SD. CONCLUSIONS: PHACE syndrome is associated with long-term, mild to severe morbidities including IH residua, headaches, learning differences, and progressive arteriopathy. Primary and specialty follow-up care is critical for PHACE patients into adulthood.

BRAF-Mutated Melanoma Journey in Latin America: Expert Recommendations From Diagnosis to Treatment.

OBJECTIVES: • Gather a panel of Latin American experts in testing and treating BRAF-melanoma. • Describe the current landscape of BRAF-mutated melanoma in Latin America. • Outline the current gaps in testing and recommend improvements for testing and treating BRAF-mutated melanoma in the region. INTRODUCTION: Melanoma prevalence in Latin America is lower than in high- and middle-income countries. However, recent data indicate that the region's incidence and mortality are rising, with more stage IV patients being diagnosed. According to international clinical practice guidelines, conducting BRAF-mutation testing in patients with stage III or stage IV melanoma and high-risk resected disease is imperative. Still, BRAF-mutation testing and targeted therapies are inconsistently available in the region. METHODS: Americas Health Foundation convened a meeting of Latin American experts on BRAF-mutated melanoma to develop guidelines and recommendations for diagnosis through treatment. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Some recommendations for improving diagnostics through improving access and reducing the cost of BRAF-mutation testing, enhancing efficiency in pathology laboratories, and creating country-specific local guidelines. The panel also gave treatment recommendations for neo-adjuvant therapy, adjuvant therapy, and therapy for patients with metastatic disease in Latin America.

An analysis of information about infantile hemangiomas on TikTok: A cross-sectional study.

The video app TikTok, a controversial platform, has increasingly been utilized for the dissemination of health-related topics. In this study, the quality of information on the top 50 most viewed TikTok videos on infantile hemangiomas (IHs) labeled #hemangioma was analyzed. The results showed that the videos were skewed toward more severe subtypes of IH, and most were directed at raising awareness about IH or combating stigmatizing attitudes toward birthmarks. Providers should be aware that social media applications such as TikTok are a commonly used venue for parents to cope and connect but may relay inaccurate or misleading information.

How many is too many? A review of the significant numbers in pediatric skin lesions and their recommended evaluation.

Pediatric dermatologists are frequently consulted to evaluate children for cutaneous signs of systemic disorders. Numerical thresholds of significance have been described in the dermatologic literature for various skin findings where the likelihood of an associated extracutaneous abnormality or known genetic syndrome increases significantly. Knowledge of these numerical thresholds facilitates diagnosis and management, which improves clinical outcomes and avoids severe complications. This review highlights the clinical presentation, complications, evaluation, and numerical significance, when applicable, for the following skin findings: infantile hemangiomas, capillary malformations, café-au-lait macules, hypopigmented macules, juvenile xanthogranulomas, pilomatricomas, and angiofibromas.

Social determinants of blood pressure control in a middle-income country in Latin America.

Blood pressure (BP) control is a key intervention to decrease cardiovascular diseases (CVD), the main cause of death in low and middle-income countries (MIC). Scarce data on the determinants of BP control in Latin America are available. Our objective is to explore the role of gender, age, education, and income as social determinants of BP control in Argentina, a MIC with a universal health care system. We evaluated 1184 persons in two hospitals. Blood pressure was measured using automatic oscillometric devices. We selected those patients treated for hypertension. The average BP of less than 140/90 mmHg was considered a controlled BP. We found 638 hypertensive individuals, of whom 477 (75%) were receiving antihypertensive drugs, and of those, 248 (52%) had controlled BP. The prevalence of low education was more frequent in uncontrolled patients (25.3% vs. 16.1%; P < .01). We did not find association between household income, gender, and BP control. Older patients had less BP control (44% of those older than 75 years vs. 60.9% of those younger than 40; test for trend P < .05). Multivariate regression indicates low education (OR 1.71 95% CI [1.05, 2.79]; P = .03) and older age (OR 1.01; 95% IC [1.00, 1.03]) as independent predictors of the lack of BP control. We conclude that rates of BP control are low in Argentina. In a MIC with a universal health care system low education and old age but not household income are independent predictors of the lack of BP control.

A Novel Tendon Injury Model, Induced by Collagenase Administration Combined with a Thermo-Responsive Hydrogel in Rats, Reproduces the Pathogenesis of Human Degenerative Tendinopathy.

Patellar tendinopathy is a common clinical problem, but its underlying pathophysiology remains poorly understood, primarily due to the absence of a representative experimental model. The most widely used method to generate such a model is collagenase injection, although this method possesses limitations. We developed an optimized rat model of patellar tendinopathy via the ultrasound-guided injection of collagenase mixed with a thermo-responsive Pluronic hydrogel into the patellar tendon of sixty male Wistar rats. All analyses were carried out at 3, 7, 14, 30, and 60 days post-injury. We confirmed that our rat model reproduced the pathophysiology observed in human patients through analyses of ultrasonography, histology, immunofluorescence, and biomechanical parameters. Tendons that were injured by the injection of the collagenase-Pluronic mixture exhibited a significant increase in the cross-sectional area (p < 0.01), a high degree of tissue disorganization and hypercellularity, significantly strong neovascularization (p < 0.01), important changes in the levels of types I and III collagen expression, and the organization and presence of intra-tendinous calcifications. Decreases in the maximum rupture force and stiffness were also observed. These results demonstrate that our model replicates the key features observed in human patellar tendinopathy. Collagenase is evenly distributed, as the Pluronic hydrogel prevents its leakage and thus, damage to surrounding tissues. Therefore, this model is valuable for testing new treatments for patellar tendinopathy.

A Novel Minimally Invasive Surgically Induced Skeletal Muscle Injury Model in Sheep.

Sports-related muscle injuries account for 10-55% of all injuries, which is a growing concern, especially given the aging world population. To evaluate the process of skeletal muscle injury and compare it with muscle lesions observed in humans, we developed a novel in vivo model in sheep. In this model, muscle injury was induced by an ultrasound-guided transverse biopsy at the myotendinous junction of the medial gastrocnemius muscle. Twelve male sheep were examined at 3, 7, 14, and 28 days post-injury. Histological, immunofluorescence, and MRI analyses indicate that our sheep model could resemble key human clinicopathological features. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in collagen I, dMHC, α-SMA, and CD68 immunohistochemical detection when comparing injured and healthy muscles. The injured gastrocnemius muscle exhibited elevated levels of type I collagen, infiltration of CD68(+) macrophages, angiogenesis, and the emergence of newly regenerated dMHC(+) myofibers, which persisted for up to 4 weeks post-injury. Similarly, the progression of muscle injury in the sheep model was assessed using advanced clinical 3 T MRI and compared with MRI scans from human patients. The data indicate that the sheep muscle injury model presents features similar to those observed in human skeletal muscle injuries. This makes it a valuable large animal model for studying muscle injuries and developing novel therapeutic strategies.

Trends in Inpatient Antibiotic Use Among Adults Hospitalized During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic in Argentina, Brazil, and Chile, 2018-2021.

BACKGROUND: High rates of antibiotic use (AU) among inpatients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) despite low rates of bacterial coinfection and secondary infection have been reported. We evaluated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on AU in healthcare facilities (HCFs) in South America. METHODS: We conducted an ecologic evaluation of AU in inpatient adult acute care wards in 2 HCFs each in Argentina, Brazil, and Chile. The AU rates for intravenous antibiotics were calculated as the defined daily dose per 1000 patient-days, using pharmacy dispensing records and hospitalization data from March 2018-February 2020 (prepandemic) and March 2020-February 2021 (pandemic). Differences in median AU were compared between the prepandemic and pandemic periods, using the Wilcoxon rank sum test to determine significance. Interrupted time series analysis was used to analyze changes in AU during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS: Compared with the prepandemic period, the median difference in AU rates for all antibiotics combined increased in 4 of 6 HCFs (percentage change, 6.7%-35.1%; P < .05). In the interrupted time series models, 5 of 6 HCFs had significant increases in use of all antibiotics combined immediately at the onset of the pandemic (immediate effect estimate range, 15.4-268), but only 1 of these 5 HCFs experienced a sustained increase over time (change in slope, +8.13; P < .01). The effect of the pandemic onset varied by antibiotic group and HCF. CONCLUSIONS: Substantial increases in AU were observed at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting the need to maintain or strengthen antibiotic stewardship activities as part of pandemic or emergency HCF responses.

Deep Dive Into Gaps and Barriers to Implementation of Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs in Hospitals in Latin America.

BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial resistance has worsened in Latin America. There is an urgent need to understand the development of antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) and the barriers to implementing effective ASPs in light of limited national action plans or policies to promote ASPs in the region. METHODS: We performed a descriptive mixed-methods study of ASPs in 5 Latin American countries in March-July 2022. An electronic questionnaire with an associated scoring system (hospital ASP self-assessment) was used, and ASP development was classified based on the scores (inadequate, 0-25; basic, 26-50; intermediate, 51-75; or advanced, 76-100). Interviews among healthcare workers (HCWs) involved in antimicrobial stewardship (AS) inquired about behavioral and organizational factors that influence AS activities. Interview data were coded into themes. Results from the ASP self-assessment and interviews were integrated to create an explanatory framework. RESULTS: Twenty hospitals completed the self-assessment, and 46 AS stakeholders from these hospitals were interviewed. ASP development was inadequate/basic in 35% of hospitals, intermediate in 50%, and advanced in 15%. For-profit hospitals had higher scores than not-for-profit hospitals. Interview data validated the self-assessment findings and provided further insight into ASP implementation challenges, which included limited formal hospital leadership support, inadequate staffing and tools to perform AS work more efficiently, limited awareness of AS principles by HCWs, and limited training opportunities. CONCLUSIONS: We identified several barriers to ASP development in Latin America, suggesting the need to create accurate business cases for ASPs to obtain the necessary funding for their effective implementation and sustainability.

Characteristics and complications of anogenital infantile hemangiomas: A multicenter retrospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) of the anogenital region remain poorly characterized. OBJECTIVE: To examine the distribution, ulceration rate, and associated congenital anomalies of anogenital IHs. METHODS: Retrospective study at 8 tertiary referral centers. RESULTS: A total of 435 infants with an IH of the anogenital region were enrolled (of which, 319 [73%] were girls). Congenital anomalies were present in 6.4% (n = 28) of infants with an anogenital IH. Segmental or partial segmental anogenital IHs ulcerated in 72% (n = 99 of 138) of infants, whereas 45% (n = 133 of 297) of focal anogenital IHs experienced ulceration (P < .001). In a multivariable logistic regression analysis, segmental or partial segmental morphology (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.70; 95% CI, 1.60-4.64), mixed type (aOR, 3.44; 95% CI, 2.01-6.07), and perianal (aOR, 3.01; 95% CI, 1.53-6.12) and buttocks location (aOR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.17-3.76) had increased odds of ulceration. Segmental or partial segmental IHs of the genitalia were confined to distinct anatomic territories and were predominantly distributed unilaterally, with a linear demarcation at the perineal raphe. LIMITATIONS: Possible selection bias, given recruitment at tertiary referral centers. CONCLUSION: This study improves our understanding of high-risk features of anogenital IHs and demonstrates that genital segmental or partial segmental IHs develop within distinct anatomic territories.

Cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita: Incidence of extracutaneous manifestations and a proposed clinical definition.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita (CMTC) is a capillary malformation characterized by congenital, reticulated, well-demarcated dark blue, red-purple, or violaceous macules or plaques, with a coarse fixed livedo pattern. Nearly always, contiguous areas of skin atrophy and/or ulceration are present. CMTC is usually localized but may rarely be generalized. Such generalized cases may be a feature of Adams-Oliver syndrome (AOS). The nosologic confusion surrounding the term CMTC and uncertainty about the risk of associated abnormalities hinders the appropriate workup of patients and prognostic counseling for families. We hypothesized that the risk of associated anomalies in children with localized CMTC is very low. METHODS: We performed a literature review and retrospective review of patients with CMTC to propose a more precise clinical definition and ascertain the risk of associated anomalies. RESULTS: We included 78 patients determined to have a diagnosis of CMTC based on consensus. The majority of patients had localized CMTC. Most patients with generalized CMTC met the criteria for the diagnosis of AOS. The associations found in patients with localized CMTC were mostly dermatological, with atrophy, ulcerations, or erosions present in 71%. Extracutaneous findings were present in 34.4% of patients and consisted mainly of extremity asymmetry (24.5%) that improved over time. CONCLUSION: Our study showed a very low frequency of extracutaneous anomalies among patients with localized CTMC, ipsilateral limb discrepancy being the most common. We did not find a strong association with any other visceral anomalies that would justify routine evaluation in patients with localized CMTC.

An overview of interventional radiology techniques for the diagnosis and management of vascular anomalies: Part 1.

Minimally invasive percutaneous and endovascular strategies performed by interventional radiologists have become the mainstays of treatment for vascular anomalies, with improved outcomes, decreased complication rates, and reduced morbidity. The aim of this article is to introduce physicians who care for patients with vascular anomalies to state-of-the-art advancements in interventional radiology (IR) for diagnosis and treatment. Part 1 of this review will focus on sclerotherapy and cryoablation. Part 2 will discuss embolization, endovenous laser ablation, and image-guided percutaneous biopsy. Select vascular anomalies will be discussed as examples to highlight IR diagnostic and/or treatment techniques.

An overview of interventional radiology techniques for the diagnosis and management of vascular anomalies: Part 2.

Minimally invasive percutaneous and endovascular strategies performed by interventional radiologists have become the mainstays of treatment for vascular anomalies with improved outcomes, decreased complication rates, and less morbidity. The aim of this article is to introduce physicians who care for patients with vascular anomalies to state-of-the-art advancements in interventional radiology for diagnosis and treatment. Part 2 of this review discusses embolization, endovenous laser ablation, and image-guided percutaneous biopsy. Please see Part 1 for a discussion of sclerotherapy and cryoablation. Select vascular anomalies will be discussed as examples to highlight IR diagnostic and/or treatment techniques.

Hybrid lung lesions in children with segmental infantile hemangiomas, a new association?

Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are the most common tumors of infancy and, in rare instances, can present in the setting of congenital structural anomalies or as part of syndromic disorders. In this study, we present three cases of children with segmental IHs born with concurrent pulmonary anomalies: congenital pulmonary airway malformations and bronchopulmonary sequestration. To date, no known association between these entities and hemangiomas has been described.

An investigation of vascular anomalies centers' transition of care practices.

This study aims to examine transition of care (TOC) practices of multidisciplinary vascular anomalies centers (VACs). Thirty-seven of 71 VAC leaders to whom the survey was sent completed the questionnaire. TOC and transfer practices varied with only 16% of VACs having TOC programs. The most frequently cited barriers to developing a TOC program were lack of resources and difficulty finding expert adult providers.

Multicenter retrospective review of pulsed dye laser in nonulcerated infantile hemangioma.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: We sought to describe the experience among members of the Hemangioma Investigator Group with pulsed dye laser (PDL) in the treatment of nonulcerated infantile hemangioma (IH) in pediatric patients in the pre- and post-beta-blocker era. METHODS: A multicenter retrospective cohort study was conducted in patients with nonulcerated IH treated with laser therapy. Patient demographics, IH characteristics, indications for/timing of laser therapy, as well as laser parameters were collected. Responses to laser therapy were evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS). RESULTS: One hundred and seventeen patients with IH were treated with PDL. 18/117 (15.4%) had early intervention (defined as <12 months of life), and 99/117 (84.6%) had late intervention (≥12 months of life). In the late intervention group, 73.7% (73/99) had additional medical management of their IH. The mean age at PDL initiation for the late intervention group was 46.7 ± 35.3 months of life (range 12-172 months) with total number of treatments to maximal clearing of 4.2 ± 2.8 (range 1-17). Those who received propranolol prior to PDL received fewer sessions (1.1 fewer sessions, approaching significance [p = .056]).     On the VAS, there was a mean 85% overall improvement compared to baseline (range 18%-100%), with most improvement noted in erythema and/or telangiectasias. The incidence of adverse effects was 6/99 (6.1%). CONCLUSIONS: PDL is a useful tool in the treatment of IH, with notable improvement of telangiectasia and erythema and low risk of complications.   PDL is often introduced after the maximal proliferative phase.