bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient Compressed Sensing Reconstruction Algorithm for Nonnegative Vectors in Wireless Data Transmission
Authors: Yang Yaguang , Zhang Hao , Liu Yu , Leng Yongqing
Published: August 2023

With the rapid development of 5G communication and wireless Internet of Things technology, the application of intelligent wearable devices based on wireless data transmission technology is becoming more and more popular. However, due to the bandwidth of wireless data transmission nodes and the power consumption of the device system, the use time and data storage of wearable devices are severely restricted. The compressed sensing (CS) technology has become an effective method to tackle this problem. CS technology includes data compressive sensing at the transmission end and data reconstruction at the receiving end. In this paper, we consider the reconstruction of nonnegative sparse vectors, an important problem in the area of CS for wireless data transmission. It is known that the interval-passing (IP) algorithm is a low-complexity message-passing type method for the problem. However, the reconstruction performance of the IP algorithm is inferior to that of the other state-of-the-art CS reconstruction algorithms such as the orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP) algorithm. In order to address the problem, we propose a two-stage reconstruction algorithm in this paper. The proposed algorithm applies the IP algorithm for the first stage of reconstruction. If the reconstruction fails, the OMP algorithm is then used on the basis of the results in the first stage. The proposed algorithm is evaluated and compared with other state-of-the-art algorithms by the probability of perfect reconstruction under the given sparsity order value. Simulation results suggest that the proposed two-stage algorithm can greatly improve the reconstruction performance of the IP algorithm and can even outperform the OMP algorithm. In addition, the low-complexity advantages of the IP algorithm are maintained in the proposed algorithm.
Uveal Melanoma Metastasis to the Thyroid
Authors: Thanadar Rokshana R. , Siddiqui Uzma M. , Bai Shi , Hou Runhua
Published: August 2023

Background. Around 1.2 to 3.1% of thyroid malignancies are due to metastasis. Among them, cutaneous malignant melanomas constitute 4% of malignancy metastasized to the thyroid. Uveal melanoma is uncommon, and its metastasis to the thyroid has only rarely been reported. Hereby, we describe an unusual case of uveal melanoma metastasized to the thyroid and discuss the concept of correct diagnosis. Case Report. During a routine ophthalmological examination, an 86-year-old Caucasian female was found to have retinal detachment secondary to choroidal melanoma. She was treated with gamma knife which resulted in reduction of tumor size. Three months later, she was noted to have a goiter on physical examination. Follow-up thyroid ultrasonography demonstrated numerous vascularized nodules in both lobes. The fine needle aspiration (FNA) of the left dominant nodule was indeterminate the first time and nondiagnostic the second time. FNA of the right dominant nodule was nondiagnostic twice but showed malignant cells the third time. Subsequent immunohistochemistry staining of the FNA sample from the right thyroid nodule confirmed a profile consistent with malignant melanoma. Conclusion. It should be kept in mind that a thyroid nodule detected in a patient with a diagnosis of uveal melanoma can be metastasis and that uveal melanoma diagnosis should be taken into account for the examination of the thyroid tumors of these patients. It is important to employ immunohistochemical staining FNA examination of the patient with such tumors for markers associated with a patient’s known malignancy to facilitate diagnosis.
Ruptured Large Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Jabbar Javereeya Abdul , Elmekresh Amr , Eltayeb Yousif
Published: August 2023

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) account for the majority of non-epithelial, mesenchymal tumors occurring in the gastrointestinal tract. Usually, the tumor measures a few centimeters, and cases larger than 15 cm are rare. Here, we report a rare case of a previously healthy 50-year-old woman, with generalized abdominal pain and increased abdominal girth for over nine months. Imaging showed a very large cystic lesion (

21
 
cm
×
15
 
cm
×
24
 
cm

) arising from the greater curvature of the stomach with rupture of the lesion into the intraperitoneal space. The patient was taken for exploratory laparotomy, which revealed a ruptured large cystic mass (

21
 
cm
×
15
 
cm
×
24
 
cm

) occupying the upper abdomen and encompassing the greater curvature of the stomach, body, and tail of the pancreas, as well as part of the spleen.
The Exquisite Comparison of Shale Mineralogical-Geochemical Characteristics between Chang 7 Member and Chang 9 Member in Yanchang Formation, Ordos Basin
Authors: Zhang Wang , Liang Xinping , Li Peng , Liu Guoheng
Published: August 2023

Significant amounts of unconventional oil and gas resources have been discovered in the Yanchang Formation of Ordos Basin. Shale layers deposited in Chang 7 member (divided into Chang 7-2 submember (C7-2SM) and Chang 7-3 submember (C7-3SM) and Chang 9 member (C9M)) are the main source rocks. Based on the comparison of mineralogical and geochemical characteristics, it is concluded that (1) in terms of mineralogical characteristics, the C7-3SM shale possesses the largest content of illite/smectite mixed layer and reducing minerals and the least quantity of quartz. The C9M shale shows the highest percentage of quartz and illite and the least amount of K-feldspar and Kaolinite. In C7-2SM and C9M shale, amorphous silica surrounded tightly by clay minerals is easily observed by the scanning electron microscopy. Besides the drilling orientation, the small content of quartz contributed to the lowest porosity for the C7-3SM shale. (2) In terms of geochemical characteristics, the C7-3SM shale exhibits high productivity due to type II1 kerogen. The organic matter in the C7-2SM and C9M shale contains mainly type II2 and possibly type III kerogen. The C9M shale exhibits the highest organic thermal maturity. The C7-3SM shale was formed in a relatively higher salinity of sedimentary water.
Effect of SiO2 Methyl Modification on the Performance of Nondispersible Underwater Concrete and Reinforcement Mechanism
Authors: Zhong Weiqiu , Zheng Longlong , Shen Yongkang , Li Wuxu , Zeng Lingwei
Published: August 2023

The effect of SiO2 methyl modification (CH3-NS) on various properties of the nondispersible underwater concrete (UWC) was evaluated. The fluidity and antiwashout resistance of the UWC mixture were evaluated by various tests. Concrete specimens were designed in the two different damage states, i.e., P-type and Z-type. The compressive strength test, contact angle test, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques were performed to analyze them. The experimental results showed that adding CH3-NS increased the fluidity of the UWC. When too much CH3-NS was added, the antiwashout resistance was reduced The CH3-NS doping should not exceed 3.0%. For P-type specimens, adding uncalcined CH3-NS improved the strength of the reinforced specimens compared to calcined CH3-NS, the value was 17.9%. And the peak and ultimate stresses of the specimens were shifted forward by 18.1 and 4.8%, respectively. The polar force component magnitude of the surface tension of the specimen was the major factor affecting the surface free energy of P-type specimens. Different CH3-NS statuses and the properties of specimens were the major factors affecting the surface free energy of Z-type specimens. Contact angle measurements, FTIR, and SEM showed that uncalcined CH3-NS enhanced the hydrophobicity and reduced the surface free energy while increasing the density of UWC and thus enhancing its compressive strength.
Influence of Gold Nanoparticle Shape and Single-Cell Localization on Energy Deposition Efficiency and Irradiation Specificity in Photon Radiotherapy
Authors: Milutinović Slobodan , Pandurović Mila , Vujisić Miloš
Published: August 2023

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have been investigated extensively in the past twenty years as a sensitizing agent in photon radiotherapy. Targeted delivery of AuNPs to specific sites in cells and tissues contributes to highly localized radiation dose enhancement, whereby the surrounding healthy structures can be largely spared from the unwanted radiation effects. The efficiency of introduced AuNPs with regard to dose enhancement depends on the properties of the nanoparticles since not all of deposited radiation energy reaches the intended biological target but is partially absorbed within the nanoparticles themselves or distributed elsewhere. The present paper investigates the influence of AuNP shape and localization on the enhancement and intracellular distribution of deposited energy in radiation therapy with photons. Energy deposition patterns are calculated with nanoscale accuracy through Monte Carlo simulations of radiation transport, which are optimized to accommodate a structured geometrical representation of the region loaded with AuNPs, i.e., to allow discrete modeling of individual nanoparticles. Same-volume nanoparticles of three commonly encountered shapes—nanospheres, nanorods, and square nanoplates—are examined, in order to inspect the differences in the propagation and absorption of secondary charged particles produced by the incident photons. Five different spatial distributions of spherical AuNPs at the single-cell level are studied in the simulations and compared according to the energy deposited in the cell nucleus. Photon energy, nanoparticle size, and concentration are also varied across simulation runs, and their influence is analyzed in connection to nanoparticle shape and localization. The obtained results reveal how the investigated nanoparticle properties affect their dose-enhancing ability and irradiation specificity in AuNP-augmented radiotherapy.
High-Order Spectral Method of Density Estimation for Stochastic Differential Equation Driven by Multivariate Gaussian Random Variables
Authors: Xie Hongling
Published: August 2023

There are some previous works on designing efficient and high-order numerical methods of density estimation for stochastic partial differential equation (SPDE) driven by multivariate Gaussian random variables. They mostly focus on proposing numerical methods of density estimation for SPDE with independent random variables and rarely research density estimation for SPDE is driven by multivariate Gaussian random variables. In this paper, we propose a high-order algorithm of gPC-based density estimation where SPDE driven by multivariate Gaussian random variables. Our main techniques are (1) we build a new multivariate orthogonal basis by adopting the Gauss–Schmidt orthogonalization; (2) with the newly constructed orthogonal basis in hand, we first assume the unknown function in the SPDE has the stochastic general polynomial chaos (gPC) expansion, second implement the stochastic gPC expansion for the SPDE in the multivariate Gaussian measure space, and third we obtain and numerical calculation deterministic differential equations for the coefficients of the expansion; (3) we used high-order algorithm of gPC-based for density estimation and moment estimation. We apply the newly proposed numerical method to a known random function, stochastic 1D wave equation, and stochastic 2D Schnakenberg model, respectively. All the presented stochastic equations are driven by bivariate Gaussian random variables. The efficiency is compared with the Monte-Carlo method based on the known random function.
Supplementary Table S6 from Prediagnostic Prescription Antibiotics Use and Survival in Patients with Colorectal Cancer: A Swedish National Register-based Study
Authors: Lu Sai San Moon , Rutegård Martin , Ahmed Maghfoor , Häggström Christel , Gylfe Åsa , Harlid Sophia , Van Guelpen Bethany
Published: August 2023

Supplementary Table S6: Crosstabulation of antibiotics use and tumour stage I-IV at diagnosis
Supplementary Table S4 from Prediagnostic Prescription Antibiotics Use and Survival in Patients with Colorectal Cancer: A Swedish National Register-based Study
Authors: Lu Sai San Moon , Rutegård Martin , Ahmed Maghfoor , Häggström Christel , Gylfe Åsa , Harlid Sophia , Van Guelpen Bethany
Published: August 2023

Supplementary Table S4: Characteristics of stage IV colorectal cancer patients
Supplementary Figure S7 from Prediagnostic Prescription Antibiotics Use and Survival in Patients with Colorectal Cancer: A Swedish National Register-based Study
Authors: Lu Sai San Moon , Rutegård Martin , Ahmed Maghfoor , Häggström Christel , Gylfe Åsa , Harlid Sophia , Van Guelpen Bethany
Published: August 2023

Supplementary Figure S7: Antibiotics use in relation to overall and cancer-specific survival in stage IV colorectal cancer byantibiotics classes, typical indications and specific antibiotics drugs.The hazards ratios (HR) are derived from the Cox proportional hazards models, stratified by tumour sites (proximalcolon, distal colon, rectum, unspecified), sex (male/female), age at diagnosis (</≥ 50 years), prediagnostic Charlsoncomorbidity index (no/any comorbidity), income status (1st/2nd/3rd/4th quartile), and adjusted for age and calendaryear of diagnosis and prediagnostic Charlson comorbidity index as continuous variables, place of birth, county, maritalstatus, level of education, family history of colorectal cancer, palliative chemotherapy and surgical therapy as categoricalvariables, defined as presented in Supplementary Table S4. Any use of specific antibiotics class was compared to noreported use of specific antibiotics class (reference). Antibiotics use during one year before colorectal cancer diagnosiswas excluded to account for potential use due to undiagnosed but clinically manifest colorectal cancer. Antibiotics thatprimarily or only affect aerobic bacteria were categorized as anti-aerobic antibiotics. Antibiotics with effect on both2anaerobic and aerobic bacteria, and metrodinazoles and/or tinidazoles (which only affect anaerobic bacteria) were categorized as anti-anaerobic antibiotics. Phenoxymethylpenicillin is presented as a specific antibiotic drug but was also the sole typical drug for the indication uncomplicated respiratory infections and some skin and soft tissue infections. Clindamycin is presented as a specific antibiotic drug but was also the sole typical drug for the indication complicated skin and soft tissue and deep-seated infections. Amoxicillin includes amoxicillin with beta-lactamase inhibitor. UTI = urinary tract infection, CI = confidence interval. Detailed antibiotics classification and typical indications are presented in Supplementary Table S1.
Data from A Genomic Analysis of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Eastern Africa
Authors: Van Loon Katherine , Mmbaga Elia J. , Mushi Beatrice P. , Selekwa Msiba , Mwanga Ally , Akoko Larry O. , Mwaiselage Julius , Mosha Innocent , Ng Dianna L. , Wu Wei , Silverstein Jordyn , Mulima Gift , Kaimila Bongani , Gopal Satish , Snell Jeff M. , Benz Stephen Charles , Vaske Charles , Sanborn Zack , Sedgewick Andrew J. , Radenbaugh Amie , Newton Yulia , Collisson Eric A.
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackground:
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) comprises 90% of all esophageal cancer cases globally and is the most common histology in low-resource settings. Eastern Africa has a disproportionately high incidence of ESCC.
Methods:
We describe the genomic profiles of 61 ESCC cases from Tanzania and compare them to profiles from an existing cohort of ESCC cases from Malawi. We also provide a comparison to ESCC tumors in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA).
Results:
We observed substantial transcriptional overlap with other squamous histologies via comparison with TCGA PanCan dataset. DNA analysis revealed known mutational patterns, both genome-wide as well as in genes known to be commonly mutated in ESCC. TP53 mutations were the most common somatic mutation in tumors from both Tanzania and Malawi but were detected at lower frequencies than previously reported in ESCC cases from other settings. In a combined analysis, two unique transcriptional clusters were identified: a proliferative/epithelial cluster and an invasive/migrative/mesenchymal cluster. Mutational signature analysis of the Tanzanian cohort revealed common signatures associated with aging and cytidine deaminase activity (APOBEC) and an absence of signature 29, which was previously reported in the Malawi cohort.
Conclusions:
This study defines the molecular characteristics of ESCC in Tanzania, and enriches the Eastern African dataset, with findings of overall similarities but also some heterogeneity across two unique sites.
Impact:
Despite a high burden of ESCC in Eastern Africa, investigations into the genomics in this region are nascent. This represents the largest comprehensive genomic analysis ESCC from sub-Saharan Africa to date.
Data from Prediagnostic Prescription Antibiotics Use and Survival in Patients with Colorectal Cancer: A Swedish National Register-based Study
Authors: Lu Sai San Moon , Rutegård Martin , Ahmed Maghfoor , Häggström Christel , Gylfe Åsa , Harlid Sophia , Van Guelpen Bethany
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackground:
Antibiotics use is associated with higher colorectal cancer risk, but little is known regarding any potential effects on survival.
Methods:
We conducted a nationwide cohort study, using complete-population data from Swedish national registers between 2005 and 2020, to investigate prediagnostic prescription antibiotics use in relation to survival in colorectal cancer patients.
Results:
We identified 36,061 stage I–III and 11,242 stage IV colorectal cancer cases diagnosed between 2010 and 2019. For stage I–III, any antibiotics use (binary yes/no variable) was not associated with overall or cancer-specific survival. Compared with no use, moderate antibiotics use (total 11–60 days) was associated with slightly better cancer-specific survival [adjusted HR (aHR) = 0.93; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.86–0.99)], whereas very high use (>180 days) was associated with worse survival [overall survival (OS) aHR = 1.42; 95% CI, 1.26–1.60, cancer-specific survival aHR = 1.31; 95% CI, 1.10–1.55]. In analyses by different antibiotic types, although not statistically significant, worse survival outcomes were generally observed across several antibiotics, particularly macrolides and/or lincosamides. In stage IV colorectal cancer, inverse relationships between antibiotics use and survival were noted.
Conclusions:
Overall, our findings do not support any substantial detrimental effects of prediagnostic prescription antibiotics use on cancer-specific survival after colorectal cancer diagnosis, with the possible exception of very high use in stage I–III colorectal cancer. Further investigation is warranted to confirm and understand these results.
Impact:
Although the study findings require confirmation, physicians probably do not need to factor in prediagnostic prescription antibiotics use in prognosticating patients with colorectal cancer.
ATM-Inhibitor AZD1390 Is a Radiosensitizer for Breast Cancer CNS Metastasis
Authors: Tew Ben Yi , Kalfa Alex J. , Yang Zeyi , Hurth Kyle M. , Simon Thomas , Abnoosian Eric , Durant Stephen T. , Hamerlik Petra , Salhia Bodour
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

Limited effective treatments are currently available for central nervous system (CNS) metastasis (CM). This is largely driven by the inability of current therapeutics to penetrate the blood brain barrier (BBB) and the lack of preclinical models for testing new therapies. Here we study the efficacy of AZD1390, a BBB penetrating ataxia-telangiectasia mutated inhibitor, as a radiosensitizer for breast cancer CM treatment.

Experimental Design:

Three patient-derived xenograft (PDX) tumors including 2 HER2+ and 1 triple-negative breast cancer harboring DNA damage response (DDR) gene mutations, were implanted subcutaneously in the flank of mice to assess tumor growth inhibition by AZD1390 combined with radiation. Animal survival was further assessed by implanting the best responding PDX model orthotopically in the brain.

Results:

Pretreatment with AZD1390 followed by radiation therapy inhibited growth of PDX tumors implanted in the flank, and improved survival in orthotopic models with average survival of 222 days compared with 123 days in controls. Administration of AZD1390 posttreatment for 21 days had no further benefits. While the combination therapy resulted in sustained tumor inhibition, sporadic regrowth was observed in some mice 50 to 100 days posttreatment in all models. Gene expression comparing these tumors with complete responders demonstrated changes in upregulation of oncogenic proteins, which are potential drivers of tumor growth after treatment.

Conclusions:

Our results demonstrate that AZD1390 effectively sensitizes breast cancer CM to radiation therapy in DDR mutant tumors. This study demonstrates the potential of using AZD1390 as a novel therapeutic agent for patients with breast cancer CM.
Phase I Results of Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal Inhibitor PLX51107 in Combination with Azacitidine in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Myeloid Malignancies
Authors: Senapati Jayastu , Fiskus Warren C. , Daver Naval , Wilson Nathaniel R. , Ravandi Farhad , Garcia-Manero Guillermo , Kadia Tapan , DiNardo Courtney D. , Jabbour Elias , Burger Jan , Short Nicholas J. , Alvarado Yesid , Jain Nitin , Masarova Lucia , Issa Ghayas C. , Qiao Wei , Khoury Joseph D. , Pierce Sherry , Miller Darla , Sasaki Koji , Konopleva Marina , Bhalla Kapil N. , Borthakur Gautam , Pemmaraju Naveen
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

Treatment outcomes in patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains dismal. On the basis of both extensive preclinical data and emerging clinical data, treatment with bromodomain and extra-terminal domain inhibitors (BETi) is a potential approach for patients with high-risk myeloid malignancies.

Patients and Methods:

We conducted a phase I trial to study the safety and efficacy of PLX51107 (BETi) and azacitidine combination therapy in patients with R/R AML and high-risk (HR) MDS and studied mechanisms of resistance to the combination therapy.

Results:

Thirty-seven patients with HR R/R MDS (n = 4) and R/R AML (n = 33) were treated. Sixteen patients (43%) had MECOM gene rearrangement and 7 other patients had TP53 mutation. Median prior number of therapies was three (range 1–9); 97% had received prior hypomethylating agent and 84% prior venetoclax. Overall response rate was 8/37 (22%): complete remission with incomplete platelet recovery (n = 1); morphologic leukemia-free state (n = 2); hematologic improvement (n = 5). The most common nonhematologic toxicities were febrile neutropenia and pneumonia in 12 (32%) patients each; 6 patients (17%) had severe hyperbilirubinemia. RNA-sequencing analysis of mononuclear cells harvested on treatment (day 3) versus pretreatment showed significant changes in mRNA expressions in responders: downregulation of MYC, BCL2, IL7R, and CDK6 and upregulation of HEXIM1, CD93, DCXR, and CDKN1A. Immunoblot analyses confirmed reduction in protein levels of c-Myc, CDK6, BCL2, and BCL-xL, and induction of BRD4 and HEXIM1 protein levels in responders.

Conclusions:

In a heavily pretreated patient cohort with R/R MDS and AML, PLX51107+ azacitidine was well-tolerated and resulted in modest clinical benefit.
Supplementary Table 1 from PARP inhibitors effectively reduce MAPK inhibitor resistant melanoma cell growth and synergize with MAPK inhibitors through a synthetic lethal interaction in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Fröhlich Lisa Marie , Niessner Heike , Sauer Birgit , Kämereit Sofie , Chatziioannou Eftychia , Riel Simon , Sinnberg Tobias , Schittek Birgit
Published: August 2023

RT2 ProfilerTM PCR Array Human p53 Signaling Pathway and Human DNA Repair Pathway
Supplementary Figure 1 from PARP inhibitors effectively reduce MAPK inhibitor resistant melanoma cell growth and synergize with MAPK inhibitors through a synthetic lethal interaction in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Fröhlich Lisa Marie , Niessner Heike , Sauer Birgit , Kämereit Sofie , Chatziioannou Eftychia , Riel Simon , Sinnberg Tobias , Schittek Birgit
Published: August 2023

PARPi treatment in melanoma cells
Supplementary Table 6 from Activating Inducible T-cell Costimulator Yields Antitumor Activity Alone and in Combination with Anti-PD-1 Checkpoint Blockade
Authors: Yadavilli Sapna , Waight Jeremy D. , Brett Sara , Bi Meixia , Zhang Tianqian , Liu Yao-Bin , Ellis Catherine , Turner David C. , Hahn Ashleigh , Shi Hong , Seestaller-Wehr Laura , Jing Junping , Xie Qing , Shaik Jafar Sadik , Ji Xiao , Gagnon Robert , Fieles William , Hook Laura , Grant Steven , Hopley Stephanie , DeYoung M. Phillip , Blackwell Christina , Chisamore Michael , Biddlecombe Robert , Figueroa David J. , Hopson Christopher B. , Srinivasan Roopa , Smothers James , Maio Michele , Rischin Danny , Olive Daniel , Paul Elaine , Mayes Patrick A. , Hoos Axel , Ballas Marc
Published: August 2023

Example TIL marker expression phenotypes from clinical patient case studies of feladilimab monotherapy and in combination with pembrolizumab.
Supplementary Table 3 from Activating Inducible T-cell Costimulator Yields Antitumor Activity Alone and in Combination with Anti-PD-1 Checkpoint Blockade
Authors: Yadavilli Sapna , Waight Jeremy D. , Brett Sara , Bi Meixia , Zhang Tianqian , Liu Yao-Bin , Ellis Catherine , Turner David C. , Hahn Ashleigh , Shi Hong , Seestaller-Wehr Laura , Jing Junping , Xie Qing , Shaik Jafar Sadik , Ji Xiao , Gagnon Robert , Fieles William , Hook Laura , Grant Steven , Hopley Stephanie , DeYoung M. Phillip , Blackwell Christina , Chisamore Michael , Biddlecombe Robert , Figueroa David J. , Hopson Christopher B. , Srinivasan Roopa , Smothers James , Maio Michele , Rischin Danny , Olive Daniel , Paul Elaine , Mayes Patrick A. , Hoos Axel , Ballas Marc
Published: August 2023

Gene expression in human T-cell
Supplementary Figure 4 from Activating Inducible T-cell Costimulator Yields Antitumor Activity Alone and in Combination with Anti-PD-1 Checkpoint Blockade
Authors: Yadavilli Sapna , Waight Jeremy D. , Brett Sara , Bi Meixia , Zhang Tianqian , Liu Yao-Bin , Ellis Catherine , Turner David C. , Hahn Ashleigh , Shi Hong , Seestaller-Wehr Laura , Jing Junping , Xie Qing , Shaik Jafar Sadik , Ji Xiao , Gagnon Robert , Fieles William , Hook Laura , Grant Steven , Hopley Stephanie , DeYoung M. Phillip , Blackwell Christina , Chisamore Michael , Biddlecombe Robert , Figueroa David J. , Hopson Christopher B. , Srinivasan Roopa , Smothers James , Maio Michele , Rischin Danny , Olive Daniel , Paul Elaine , Mayes Patrick A. , Hoos Axel , Ballas Marc
Published: August 2023

Uncropped gel images
Supplementary Figure 11 from Activating Inducible T-cell Costimulator Yields Antitumor Activity Alone and in Combination with Anti-PD-1 Checkpoint Blockade
Authors: Yadavilli Sapna , Waight Jeremy D. , Brett Sara , Bi Meixia , Zhang Tianqian , Liu Yao-Bin , Ellis Catherine , Turner David C. , Hahn Ashleigh , Shi Hong , Seestaller-Wehr Laura , Jing Junping , Xie Qing , Shaik Jafar Sadik , Ji Xiao , Gagnon Robert , Fieles William , Hook Laura , Grant Steven , Hopley Stephanie , DeYoung M. Phillip , Blackwell Christina , Chisamore Michael , Biddlecombe Robert , Figueroa David J. , Hopson Christopher B. , Srinivasan Roopa , Smothers James , Maio Michele , Rischin Danny , Olive Daniel , Paul Elaine , Mayes Patrick A. , Hoos Axel , Ballas Marc
Published: August 2023

Clinical case study of feladilimab monotherapy.
Incidence and Determinants of COVID-19 in Patients Seeking Treatment for Substance Use Disorder: A Patient-Based Linkage Study
Authors: Lana-Lander Irene , Muñoz-Galán Regina , Palacio-Vieira Jorge , Majo-Roca Xavier , Martínez-Carbonell Elisenda , Muga Robert , Colom Joan
Published: August 2023

Introduction: People with substance use disorder (SUD) may be at increased risk of COVID-19 infection. However, there is little evidence regarding the incidence of and determinants associated with infection in this group. The aims of the study were to determine the cumulative incidence of COVID-19 among people who sought treatment for heroin, cocaine, cannabis, and alcohol use disorder in Catalonia; to identify sociodemographic, substance, and clinical determinants associated with COVID-19 infection among SUD patients; and to compare the cumulative incidence of COVID-19 infection in the population with SUD with that of the general population. Methods: A patient-based retrospective observational study was conducted. The study population comprised people who sought treatment for heroin, cocaine, cannabis, or alcohol use disorder in Catalonia in 2018 and 2019. We analysed cumulative incidence of COVID-19 (confirmed by PCR test) from 25 February to 31 December 2020. Additionally, we used a log-link binomial generalized linear model for COVID-19 infection, using the substance as the exposition, adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical variables. Results: Of the 23,092 individuals who sought treatment for SUD, 38.15% were considered suspected cases of COVID-19, and 2.60% (95% CI = 2.41–2.82) were confirmed positive for COVID-19 by PCR test during the study period. Those who sought treatment for alcohol use (cumulative incidence of COVID-19 of 3% [95% CI = 2.70–3.34]) had a higher risk ratio than, those who sought treatment for heroin use (cumulative incidence of 1.94% [95% CI = 1.47–2.56]). Being born outside of Spain, living in an institutionalized residence, having HIV, and being in a high morbidity group were associated with higher risk of COVID-19 infection. Meanwhile, the cumulative incidence of COVID-19 in the general population, according to public COVID-19 test data, was 3.86% (95% CI = 3.85–3.87). Conclusion: This study did not find higher cumulative incidence of COVID-19 infection among people with SUD in Catalonia in 2020, despite the clinical vulnerability of this population and their social disadvantage. However, differences were seen in the cumulative incidence of COVID-19 according to the substance for which treatment was sought. For example, those with alcohol dependence had a higher rate than those dependent on heroin. Further studies are needed to determine the factors contributing to these differences.
Interleukin-10: A Potential Pre-Cannulation Marker for Development of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Receiving Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Grins Edgars , Leacche Marzia , Shrestha Nabin Manandhar , Bjursten Henrik , Ederoth Per , Jovinge Stefan
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients treated with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is associated with high mortality. The objective of this study was to investigate whether cytokine levels before the initiation of ECMO treatment could predict AKI. We also aimed to investigate the impact of AKI on 30-day and 1-year mortality. Methods: Serum cytokine levels were analyzed in 100 consecutive VA-ECMO-treated patients at pre-cannulation, at 48 h post-cannulation, and at 8 days. Clinical data to establish the incidence and outcome of AKI after the start of ECMO was retrieved from the local ECMO registry. Setting: The study was conducted at tertiary care, university hospital. Participants included 100 patients treated with VA-ECMO. Interventions: The blood samples for cytokine analysis were collected before VA-ECMO treatment, at 48 h after VA-ECMO treatment was started, and at 8 days. Results: Pre-cannulation serum IL-10 levels were significantly higher in patients who developed AKI (212 [38.9, 620.7]) versus those who did not (49.0 [11.9, 102.2]; p = 0.007), and the development of AKI can be predicted by pre-cannulation IL-10 levels (p = 0.025, OR = 1.2 [1.02–1.32]). The development of AKI during ECMO treatment is associated with increased 30-day mortality (p = 0.049) compared to patients who did not develop AKI and had a pre-cannulation estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥ 45 mL/min. The 1-year survival rate for patients with AKI who survived the first 30 days of ECMO treatment is comparable to that of patients without AKI. Conclusion: Increased pre-cannulation IL-10 levels are associated with the development of AKI during VA-ECMO support. AKI is associated with increased 30-day mortality compared to patients with no AKI and better renal function. However, patients with AKI who survive the first 30 days have a 1-year survival rate similar to those without AKI.
Left Ventricular Function in Patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis: A Three-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking Imaging Study
Authors: Chen Meihua , Chen Xiaojuan , Huang Hanyin , Wei Yunpeng , Wang Lehua , Huang Xuning
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Although maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) appears to induce some risk factors and strengthen cardiac function, the morbidity of ESRD patients receiving hemodialysis remains high. This study aimed to identify left ventricular (LV) structural and functional abnormalities in ESRD patients on MHD using three-dimensional speckle-tracking imaging (3D-STI). Methods: Eighty-five ESRD patients with normal LV ejection fraction (LVEF >50%) participated in this study, including 55 MHD patients comprising the chronic kidney disease (CKD) V-D group and 30 nondialysis patients comprising the CKD V-ND group. Thirty age- and sex-matched control participants who had normal kidney function were enrolled as the N group. Conventional echocardiography and 3D-STI were conducted, and global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), global area strain (GAS), and global radial strain (GRS) values were measured. Results: No substantial differences in two-dimensional LVEF were observed among the three groups, and LV hypertrophy was the most common abnormality in patients with ESRD, irrespective of whether they had received or not received MHD. There were no significant differences in the 3D LV mass index between the CKD V-ND and N groups (p > 0.05). Conversely, the 3D LV mass index was considerably higher in the CKD V-D group than in both the N and CKD V-ND groups. The GLS, GAS, and GRS values were significantly lower in the CKD V-ND group than in the N group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the CKD V-D group had significantly lower GLS, GCS, GAS, and GRS values than the N and CKD V-ND groups (p < 0.05). The interventricular septal thickness and E/e’ ratio were independently associated with LV strain values in all patients with ESRD. Conclusions: MHD can exacerbate LV deformation and dysfunction in ESRD patients with preserved LVEF, and 3D-STI can be potentially useful for detecting these asymptomatic preclinical abnormalities.
Autoimmune Hepatitis Induced by Hepatitis Delta Virus: A Conundrum
Authors: Cardoso Mariana F. , Carvalho Rita , Correia Fábio Pereira , Branco Joana C. , Nuno Costa Mariana , Martins Alexandra
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The association of hepatitis delta virus (HDV) infection with positive autoantibodies and autoimmune features has been known for decades. However, to date, very few cases of clinical autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) have been reported in association with HDV infection, most of them being in the context of treatment with peginterferon. Case Report: This case refers to a 46-year-old woman born in Guinea-Bissau who moved to Portugal in 2018 to investigate complaints of diffuse abdominal discomfort and nausea. Her initial work-up, including laboratory and liver histology, was consistent with type 1 AIH. She had HBe antigen-negative chronic hepatitis B virus infection with negative DNA and also a positive total anti-HDV antibody, with negative IgM and undetectable RNA. Therefore, after initiating prophylactic tenofovir difumarate, she was started on prednisolone followed by azathioprine, which was later stopped due to presumed hepatotoxicity. Repeated histology showed signs of viral superinfection, and she was treated with acyclovir due to a positive herpes simplex IgM, with HDV RNA remaining negative. A third flare in transaminases prompted the introduction of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) after a thorough exclusion of additional causes of liver disease. About 6 months later, during another bout of hepatitis, HDV RNA was finally positive and classified as genotype 5. MMF was stopped, and, considering a contraindication to interferon, the patient was offered therapy with bulevirtide, which she refused for personal reasons as she is currently living in her home country. Discussion: This is a challenging case of autoimmune or “autoimmune-like” hepatitis, probably induced by chronic HDV infection. High suspicion of HDV was essential because, had the case been interpreted as refractory AIH, with escalation of immunosuppression, a more severe course of the viral infection might have ensued. Recently, HDV suppression with bulevirtide was shown to reverse autoimmune liver disease. We hypothesize that the same could have happened to our patient, had she accepted this treatment.
Medication Status and Related Factors in Essential Tremor Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study in China
Authors: Xiang Linghui , Zhou Xun , He Runcheng , Gao Yinyan , Li Mingqiang , Zeng Sheng , Cao Hongmei , Wang Xuejing , Xu Yanming , Zhao Guohua , Xu Qian , Liu Zhenhua , Guo Jifeng , Yan Xinxiang , Tang Beisha , Sun Qiying , Wu Irene X.Y. ,   the China Essential Tremor Alliance
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Essential tremor (ET) is one of the most common movement disorders. Oral drugs play a crucial role in treating ET, with various available options such as propranolol, primidone, and topiramate. However, the medication status and related factors among Chinese ET patients are unknown yet. Methods: This study used the baseline data from the National Survey of Essential Tremor Plus in China cohort. ET patients with information related to medication intake were included. Medication patients were defined as patients who were taking medication at the time of the survey. We further defined recommended medication users according to Chinese guideline recommendations and clinical knowledge. We used mean and standard deviation (SD), median and interquartile range (IQR), or frequencies and percentages when appropriate for descriptive analysis. We used multivariate logistic regression analyses to explore factors related to medication intake in all ET patients and in recommended medication users. Results: Of 1,153 included ET participants, 207 (18.0%) took medication. Arotinolol (115, 55.6%) and propranolol (63, 30.4%) were the top 2 used medicines. Patients with middle school education (odds ratio 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.39–0.83), college or higher level education (0.46, 0.28–0.76), and late-onset ET (LO-ET) (0.38, 0.23–0.63) were less likely to take medication. Patients with intention tremor (1.90, 1.38–2.62), every 10-unit increase in age (1.10, 1.00–1.21), Tremor Research Group Essential Tremor Rating Assessment Scale (TETRAS) Part 1 (1.63, 1.37–1.93), and TETRAS Part 2 (1.81, 1.48–2.22) were more likely to take medication. Among 332 recommended medication users, only 104 (31.3%) took medicine. The associations of LO-ET (0.36, 0.17–0.75), intention tremor (2.27, 1.35–3.81), TETRAS Part 1 (1.52, 1.09–2.13), and TETRAS Part 2 (1.59, 1.15–2.20) with medication were similar to all ET patients. Conclusion: The proportion of medication intake is low among both all ET patients and recommended medication users. The top 2 commonly used medications among all ET patients are arotinolol and propranolol. Influencing factors of medication intake are different between all ET patients and recommended medication users. Clinicians are suggested to provide counseling and education on ET medication to promote medication intake.
Fabry Disease Presenting as End-Stage Kidney Disease
Authors: Pahl Madeleine V. , Hou Jean
Published: August 2023

Background: Fabry disease (FD) is an X-linked disorder due to a pathogenic variant of the GLA gene that codes for the alpha-galactosidase enzyme. The reduced or absent activity of the enzyme results in lysosomal accumulation of globotriosylceramide and its derivative, globotriaosylsphingosine, in a variety of cells, leading to a variety of complications including cardiac, renal, and cerebrovascular disorders. Early diagnosis is critically important for the selection of therapeutic treatments, which are essential for improving outcomes. Here we present a case of FD diagnosed at the time of end-stage kidney disease presentation. Summary: A 40-year-old man with a history of seizures presented with increased serum creatinine, nephrotic rage proteinuria, and new-onset hypertension. A renal biopsy revealed numerous, whorled, and lamellated cytoplasmic inclusions in podocytes, glomerular peritubular capillary endothelial cells, mesangial cells, arterial myocytes, and interstitial macrophages. Ultrastructural analysis confirmed the presence of glycosphingolipid inclusions and enlarged lysosomes packed with multi-lamellated structures (“zebra” bodies). The findings were suggestive of a lysosomal storage disorder, and testing for alpha-galactosidase A levels revealed near-absent enzyme activity, confirming the diagnosis of advanced FD. Key Messages: The diagnosis of FD can be challenging as the manifestations of the disease are nonspecific, and patients can present early with classical symptoms or late with non-classical patterns of involvement. We will discuss strategies to identify the disorder early by reviewing the classical and non-classical presentations and further outline currently available and potential future treatment options.
Maskne: revisão narrativa de acne relacionada ao uso de máscara em profissionais de saúde durante a pandemia de Covid-19
Authors: Mendonça Débora da Silva , Esteban Claudia , Gimenes Maria José Fernandes , Sá Eduardo Costa
Published: August 2023

Introdução: “Maskne”, que designa acne relacionada ao uso prolongado de máscaras de proteção, é uma variante da acne causada por lesão mecânica (pressão, atrito e fricção) e oclusão. Objetivos: A presente revisão tem como objetivo reunir informações sobre a prevalência de maskne, assim como conhecer os fatores de risco, características clínicas, medidas terapêuticas e estratégias de prevenção. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão narrativa de 19 artigos publicados de 2020 a 2022 nas bases de dados PubMed, LILACS e SciELO. Resultados: A maior prevalência foi identificada nos Estados Unidos (EUA), com 68,7%. Os fatores de risco foram uso prolongado da máscara (>4-6 horas/dia) e história prévia de acne. Maskne é caracterizada pela presença de pápulas, pústulas e comedões em regiões cobertas pela máscara, que surge após 6 semanas de uso de máscara, ou agravamento da acne preexistente, que melhora quando a máscara não é usada por longo período. O tratamento é baseado em limpeza adequada da pele, uso de hidratantes e medicamentos tópicos, como retinoides, peróxido de benzoíla e ácido salicílico. As estratégias de prevenção incluem evitar o uso prolongado da máscara, fazer pausas de 15 minutos a cada 2 horas, não reutilizar a máscara por muitos dias e higiene das mãos. Conclusão: Conclui-se que maskne já é prevalente, com potencial de aumentar no contexto ocupacional.
High Self‐Reported Levels of Pain 1 Year After a Myocardial Infarction Are Related to Long‐Term All‐Cause Mortality: A SWEDEHEART Study Including 18 376 Patients
Authors: Vixner Linda , Hambraeus Kristina , Äng Björn , Berglund Lars
Published: August 2023

Background

Pain increases the risk for cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction (MI). However, the impact of pain on mortality after MI has not yet been investigated in large studies with long‐term follow‐up periods. Thus, we aimed to examine various levels of pain severity 1 year after an MI as a potential risk for all‐cause mortality.

Methods and Results

We collected data from 18 376 patients, aged <75 years, who had a registered MI event during the period from 2004 to 2013 and with measurements of potential cardiovascular risk indicators at hospital discharge from the Swedish quality register SWEDEHEART (Swedish Web System for Enhancement and Development of Evidence‐Based Care in Heart Disease Evaluated According to Recommended Therapies). Self‐reported levels of experienced pain according to EuroQol‐5 dimension instrument were recorded in secondary prevention clinics 1 year after hospital discharge. We collected all‐cause mortality data up to 8.5 years (median, 3.4 years) after the 1‐year visit. The Cox proportional hazard regression was used to estimate hazard ratio (HR) and 95% CI. Moderate pain and extreme pain were reported by 38.2% and 4.5%, respectively, of included patients. There were 1067 deaths. Adjusted HR was 1.35 (95% CI, 1.18–1.55) and 2.06 (95% CI, 1.63–2.60) for moderate and extreme pain, respectively. Pain was a stronger mortality predictor than smoking.

Conclusions

Pain 1 year after MI is highly prevalent, and its effect on mortality 1 year after MI was found to be more pronounced than smoking. Clinicians managing patients after MI should recognize the need to consider experienced pain when making prognosis or treatment decisions.
Informed Consent in the Stroke Care Continuum
Authors: Rubin Michael A. , Aubert Rachel
Published: August 2023

Acute stroke management has become increasingly complex, incorporating medical, endovascular, and open surgical treatments that are potentially implemented across multiple hospitals for the same patient. Hospitals work in ever‐expanding networks to provide cost‐effective stroke care, balancing capital and labor costs, expertise, and catchment reach. As these systems and care pathways become more complex and attention is placed on the need to protect privacy, the importance of engaging patients and the community in medical decisions that carry forward from one institute to the next has likewise increased. As each node in the care pathway requires a varying degree of patient input and fulfillment of legal requirements, clinicians would benefit from a fundamental understanding of informed consent and contemporary shared decision‐making. While consent is commonly obtained, clinicians may not be aware of how different levels of consent are appropriate depending on the circumstances. In this essay, we explore the origins of informed consent and its relation to contemporary shared decision‐making. We will then review the acute stroke care continuum, and argue when simple consent, informed consent, and shared medical decision‐making ought to be used to ensure that care is delivered in a matter consistent with ethical practice. This framework is one particular approach to decision‐making and consent that we believe is supported by the arguments in this essay. Unless otherwise stated, the medical practice regarding consent discussed herein is applicable to the United States and may vary in other jurisdictions. Furthermore, consent for research is performed under a different paradigm and will not be explored herein.