bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Terahertz Metamaterial Absorber Based on Graphene with Properties Optimised by Investigation of Plasma Parameters for Improved Device Performance
Authors: Bhatia Rohan , Ramachandra Utkarsh , Anirudh V. , Kansal Mansha , Sharma Suresh C.
Published: June 2023

Low-dimensional materials like Graphene have tremendous potential for use in high-performance terahertz absorbers, for a variety of practical applications. Direct growth techniques, such as Plasma-enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD), that offer control over the inherent features of those materials can further lead to affordable and scalable ways to construct effective absorber devices. Because it has a high degree of electromagnetic confinement in the terahertz range and tunability, Graphene is an especially alluring plasmonic material. This study presents a terahertz absorber optimized by tailoring the electrical and physical characteristics of Graphene sheets for use as a metamaterial. A correlation between device performance and plasma parameters in Graphene growth has been found because parameters like thickness, carrier mobility, and carrier density of Graphene sheets can be controlled during their growth during PECVD, which in turn can have a significant impact on the material’s frequency-dependent complex conductivity. To build the ideal device, data from PECVD experiments have been thoroughly assimilated and utilized in device simulation to the maximum possible extent. The terahertz absorber uses a simplified and optimized rectangular ring resonator geometry and achieves single-band and narrow absorption of 100% upon using Graphene with particular values of thickness, carrier density, and carrier mobility.
DEAD-box helicase 54 regulates microglial inflammatory response in rats with chronic constriction injuries through NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling axis
Authors: Liu Panmei , Zhang Yu , Li Xinxin , Ma Minyu
Published: June 2023

The role of DDX54 protein in LPS-induced microglia and a chronic constriction injury (CCI) rat model was investigated for the first time. DDX54 interference can inhibit microglial activation and reduce the secretion of inflammatory factors. The interaction between DDX54 protein and MYD88 mRNA was explored for the first time. DDX54 promotes NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling activation by regulating MYD88 transcription in a CCI rat model.
Calf cutaneous stimulation generates reflexes in the thigh that can be modified by subthreshold noisy vibration
Authors: Plater Emma B. , Sharma Tushar , Peters Ryan M. , Bent Leah R.
Published: June 2023

Our work showed that cutaneous reflexes, known to be present in response to foot sole stimulation, can also be evoked by stimulation of hairy leg skin. In addition, we demonstrated that adding tactile noise can enhance this reflex response. These findings demonstrate proof-of-concept for potential future applications where tactile stimulation, applied to the leg of an individual with amputation, can enhance postural-relevant reflexes. Improving postural control may reduce the risk of falls in this high-risk population.
A New Individual Mobility Prediction Model Applicable to Both Ordinary Conditions and Large Crowding Events
Authors: Guo Bao , Wang Kaipeng , Yang Hu , Zhang Fan , Wang Pu
Published: June 2023

Accurate prediction of individual mobility is crucial for developing intelligent transportation systems. However, while previous models usually focused on predicting individual mobility under ordinary conditions, the models that are applicable to large crowding events are still lacking. Here, we employ the smart card data of 6.5 million subway passengers of the Shenzhen Metro to develop a Markov chain-based individual mobility prediction model (i.e., SCMM) applicable to both ordinary and anomalous passenger flow situations. The proposed SCMM model improves the Markov chain model by incorporating the station-level anomalous passenger flow index and the collective mobility patterns of similar passengers. Compared with the benchmark models, the SCMM model achieves the highest prediction accuracy in both ordinary conditions and large crowding events. Our results highlight the importance of combining an individual’s own historical mobility data with collective mobility data and suggest the appropriate weights of individual and collective information considered in individual mobility modeling.
Chromolaena odorata (L.) R. M. King and H. Robinson Leaves Aqueous Extract Improves the Femoral Head in Ethanol‐Induced Osteonecrosis in Rats
Authors: Tsofack Ngueguim Florence , Kamkumo Gounoue Raceline , Hubert Donfack Jean , Manefen Simo Sandra , Jouonzo Josiane , Ngapout Fifen Rodrigue , Djomeni Dzeufiet Paul Desire , Dimo Théophile
Published: June 2023

Chronic alcohol consumption damages bone formation and causes bone pathology, including osteonecrosis of the femoral head. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effects of the leaf aqueous extract of Chromolaena odorata (C. odorata) on the femoral head in ethanol‐induced osteonecrosis in rats. Animals received alcohol (40°) at 3 g/kg for 12 weeks. A group of animals were sacrificed to attest to the instalment of osteonecrosis by using histopathological analysis. The remaining animals received alcohol concomitantly with the plant extract (150, 300, or 600 mg/kg) or diclofenac (1 mg/kg) for 28 additional days. At the end of the experimental period, biochemical parameters including total cholesterol, triglycerides, calcium, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), reduced glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrite, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase activities were measured. Histopathological and histomorphometry analyses of femurs were also assessed. The administration of alcohol, irrespective of the experimental period, induced a significant increase in total cholesterol (p < 0.05) and triglyceride (p < 0.01) and a decrease in ALP (p < 0.05) and calcium (p < 0.05–p < 0.001) levels. Intoxicated animals showed an alteration in oxidative stress parameters accompanied by a significant drop in bone cortical thickness and density with necrosis and marked bone resorption. The concomitant administration of the plant with ethanol reversed the alcohol‐induced bone defect, characterized by the improvement of the lipid profile (p < 0.001), bone calcium concentration (p < 0.05), bone ALP activity (p < 0.001), oxidative stress parameters, improved cortical bone thickness (p < 0.01), and bone density (p < 0.05). These results are supported by the absence of bone resorption with an obvious effect at a dose of 300 mg/kg. The pharmacological effect of the extract on ethanol‐induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head is probably due to its osteogenic, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant properties, justifying its use in Cameroonian folk medicine for articulation and bone pain management.
Quality of Life and Its Predictors among Patients with Selected Chronic Diseases
Authors: Al Qadire Mohammad , ALHosni Fatima , Al-Daken Laila , Aljezawi Ma’en , Al Omari Omar , Khalaf Atika
Published: June 2023

Background. Quality of life (QoL) is an important measure to understand the effect of diseases on patients’ daily living. Yet, the research on QoL among patients with chronic diseases in Oman is scarce. This study aimed to assess the level and determine the predictors of QoL among patients with chronic diseases in Oman. Methods. A cross-sectional correlational descriptive was run among 340 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic heart failure, and/or end-stage renal disease. Results. Participants’ mean age was 60.6 years (SD ± 14.4) and the majority were males (63.5%). The highest mean scores were emotional well-being (mean = 85.2, SD = ±11.2) and role limitations due to personal or emotional problems (mean = 83.2, SD = ±35.8). In addition, COPD patients reported the lowest scores on the QoL questionnaire. Having a high score on the Karnofsky Performance Status Scale (KPSS) and being married predicted a higher score in the mental and physical domains of QoL, while having a higher total symptom number and COPD predicted a lower score in the mental domain. Older age, higher total symptom number, and a higher distress level predicted a lower score on the physical domain of QoL. Conclusion. The results call for a need to improve the QoL among the patients with chronic disease, including symptom management plans, self-management programmes, and training to enhance their own perception of QoL. Furthermore, symptom management plans are highly needed.
Vibration Control of the Steel-Concrete Composite Box Girder Bridge with Slip and Shear-Lag Effects by MTMDs under the Train-Bridge Interaction
Authors: Tang Qing-Chen , Zhu Li
Published: June 2023

Steel-concrete composite girder bridges, in essence, are thin-walled structures, the dynamic responses of which will be greater than those of a typical Euler–Bernoulli beam under the train-bridge interaction because of the shear lag and interface slip. Thus, in this study, the dynamic analysis model of a train-composite box girder bridge-multiple tuned mass damper (MTMD) coupling system is proposed, with the derived dynamic equations of this time-varying system. Meanwhile, the program is compiled using the Newmark-β method for the solution, combined with the optimization toolbox to solve the complex optimization design problems of MTMDs involved. Finally, factors affecting the vibration-damping effect are studied, such as the mass ratio of MTMDs, the number of trains, and the slip and shear lag of the composite box girder bridge.
Breaking Undular and Breaking Surges Advancing in Still Water
Authors: Zheng Feidong , Li Xueyi
Published: June 2023

The propagation of secondary surges can lead to unexpected interaction events with navigation ships and downstream hydraulic structures; hence, they may cause navigation accidents and structural damage. In the present study, physical experiments were performed in a long water wave tank to study the evolution of breaking undular and breaking surges advancing in still water. Both free-surface and velocity measurements were conducted. It was observed that the transition from a breaking undular surge to a breaking surge occurred as the ratio of the mean water depth behind the surge to the still water depth equal to 1.68–1.71. Empirical expressions based on the experimental data were proposed to predict the wave amplitude and wave steepness of breaking undular surges. The unsteady flow results demonstrated that the normalized longitudinal velocity component beneath the surge front was governed mainly by the normalized free-surface elevation, independently of the surge type. Moreover, the maximum vertical velocity component during the surge front passage had a linear dependence on the vertical location. The present result provided new quantitative information on breaking undular and breaking surges advancing in still water.
Supplementary Table S1 from Driving Diversity and Inclusion in Cancer Drug Development – Industry and Regulatory Perspectives, Current Practices, Opportunities, and Challenges
Authors: Fashoyin-Aje Lola A. , Tendler Craig , Lavery Bea , Ghiorghiu Serban , Gerald Brittany , Kalidas Chitkala , Richie Nicole , Winson Kathleen , Warren Nicholas J.H. , Tellman Tristen V. , Retzlaff Jon , Foti Margaret , Pazdur Richard
Published: June 2023

Diversity Plan Guidance Framework
Supplementary Table S2 from Association of Antifolate Response Signature Status and Clinical Activity of Pemetrexed-Platinum Chemotherapy in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer: The Piedmont Study
Authors: Eisner Joel R. , Mayhew Gregory M. , Davison James M. , Beebe Kirk D. , Shibata Yoichiro , Guo Yuelong , Farhangfar Carol , Farhangfar Farhang , Uronis Joshua M. , Conroy Jeffrey M. , Milburn Michael V. , Hayes David Neil , Mileham Kathryn F.
Published: June 2023

Expression Matrix of Patient Tumor Sample RNAseq
Supplemental Figure 3 from Genetic Alterations Detected by Circulating Tumor DNA in HER2-Low Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Hensing Whitney L. , Gerratana Lorenzo , Clifton Katherine , Medford Arielle J. , Velimirovic Marko , Shah Ami N. , D'Amico Paolo , Reduzzi Carolina , Zhang Qiang , Dai Charles S. , Denault Elyssa N. , Bagegni Nusayba A. , Opyrchal Mateusz , Ademuyiwa Foluso O. , Bose Ron , Behdad Amir , Ma Cynthia X. , Bardia Aditya , Cristofanilli Massimo , Davis Andrew A.
Published: June 2023

Supplemental Figure 3. Interaction between HER2-positive status and oncogenic pathways on overall survival.
Data from MEK Inhibition Sensitizes Pancreatic Cancer to STING Agonism by Tumor Cell–intrinsic Amplification of Type I IFN Signaling
Authors: Ghukasyan Razmik , Liang Keke , Chau Kevin , Li Luyi , Chan Charlotte , Abt Evan R. , Le Thuc , Park Joon Y. , Wu Nanping , Premji Alykhan , Damoiseaux Robert , Luu Tony , Labora Amanda , Rashid Khalid , Link Jason M. , Radu Caius G. , Donahue Timothy R.
Published: June 2023

AbstractPurpose:
Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonists are currently in development for treatment of solid tumors, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Response rates to STING agonists alone have been promising yet modest, and combination therapies will likely be required to elicit their full potency. We sought to identify combination therapies and mechanisms that augment the tumor cell–intrinsic effect of therapeutically relevant STING agonists apart from their known effects on tumor immunity.
Experimental Design:
We screened 430 kinase inhibitors to identify synergistic effectors of tumor cell death with diABZI, an intravenously administered and systemically available STING agonist. We deciphered the mechanisms of synergy with STING agonism that cause tumor cell death in vitro and tumor regression in vivo.
Results:
We found that MEK inhibitors caused the greatest synergy with diABZI and that this effect was most pronounced in cells with high STING expression. MEK inhibition enhanced the ability of STING agonism to induce type I IFN-dependent cell death in vitro and tumor regression in vivo. We parsed NFκB-dependent and NFκB-independent mechanisms that mediate STING-driven type I IFN production and show that MEK signaling inhibits this effect by suppressing NFκB activation.
Conclusions:
Our results highlight the cytotoxic effects of STING agonism on PDAC cells that are independent of tumor immunity and that these therapeutic benefits of STING agonism can be synergistically enhanced by MEK inhibition.
Data from Association of Antifolate Response Signature Status and Clinical Activity of Pemetrexed-Platinum Chemotherapy in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer: The Piedmont Study
Authors: Eisner Joel R. , Mayhew Gregory M. , Davison James M. , Beebe Kirk D. , Shibata Yoichiro , Guo Yuelong , Farhangfar Carol , Farhangfar Farhang , Uronis Joshua M. , Conroy Jeffrey M. , Milburn Michael V. , Hayes David Neil , Mileham Kathryn F.
Published: June 2023

AbstractPurpose:
The Piedmont study is a prospectively designed retrospective evaluation of a new 48-gene antifolate response signature (AF-PRS) in patients with locally advanced/metastatic nonsquamous (NS) non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with pemetrexed-containing platinum doublet chemotherapy (PMX-PDC). The study tested the hypothesis that AF-PRS identifies patients with NS-NSCLC who have a higher likelihood of responding positively to PMX-PDC. The goal was to gather clinical evidence supporting AF-PRS as a potential diagnostic test.
Experimental Design:
Residual pretreatment FFPE tumor samples and clinical data were analyzed from 105 patients treated with first-line (1L) PMX-PDC. Ninety-five patients had sufficient RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data quality and clinical annotation for inclusion in the analysis. Associations between AF-PRS status and associate genes and outcome measures including progression-free survival (PFS) and clinical response were evaluated.
Results:
Overall, 53% of patients were AF-PRS(+), which was associated with extended PFS, but not overall survival, versus AF-PRS(−) (16.6 months vs. 6.6 months; P = 0.025). In patients who were stage I to III patients at the time of treatment, PFS was further extended in AF-PRS(+) versus AF-PRS(−) (36.2 months vs. 9.3 months; P = 0.03). Complete response (CR) to therapy was noted in 14 of 95 patients. AF-PRS(+) preferentially selected a majority (79%) of CRs, which were evenly split between patients stage I to III (six of seven) and stage IV (five of seven) at the time of treatment.
Conclusions:
AF-PRS identified a significant population of patients with extended PFS and/or clinical response following PMX-PDC treatment. AF-PRS may be a useful diagnostic test for patients indicated for systemic chemotherapy, especially when determining the optimal PDC regimen for locally advanced disease.
Dissecting the Mechanisms Underlying the Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) Mediated by T-Cell Bispecific Antibodies
Authors: Leclercq-Cohen Gabrielle , Steinhoff Nathalie , Albertí Servera Llucia , Nassiri Sina , Danilin Sabrina , Piccione Emily , Yángüez Emilio , Hüsser Tamara , Herter Sylvia , Schmeing Stephan , Gerber Petra , Schwalie Petra , Sam Johannes , Briner Stefanie , Jenni Sylvia , Bianchi Roberta , Biehl Marlene , Cremasco Floriana , Apostolopoulou Katerina , Haegel Hélène , Klein Christian , Umaña Pablo , Bacac Marina
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

Target-dependent TCB activity can result in the strong and systemic release of cytokines that may develop into cytokine release syndrome (CRS), highlighting the need to understand and prevent this complex clinical syndrome.

Experimental Design:

We explored the cellular and molecular players involved in TCB-mediated cytokine release by single-cell RNA-sequencing of whole blood treated with CD20-TCB together with bulk RNA-sequencing of endothelial cells exposed to TCB-induced cytokine release. We used the in vitro whole blood assay and an in vivo DLBCL model in immunocompetent humanized mice to assess the effects of dexamethasone, anti-TNFα, anti-IL6R, anti-IL1R, and inflammasome inhibition, on TCB-mediated cytokine release and antitumor activity.

Results:

Activated T cells release TNFα, IFNγ, IL2, IL8, and MIP-1β, which rapidly activate monocytes, neutrophils, DCs, and NKs along with surrounding T cells to amplify the cascade further, leading to TNFα, IL8, IL6, IL1β, MCP-1, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, and IP-10 release. Endothelial cells contribute to IL6 and IL1β release and at the same time release several chemokines (MCP-1, IP-10, MIP-1α, and MIP-1β). Dexamethasone and TNFα blockade efficiently reduced CD20-TCB–mediated cytokine release whereas IL6R blockade, inflammasome inhibition, and IL1R blockade induced a less pronounced effect. Dexamethasone, IL6R blockade, IL1R blockade, and the inflammasome inhibitor did not interfere with CD20-TCB activity, in contrast to TNFα blockade, which partially inhibited antitumor activity.

Conclusions:

Our work sheds new light on the cellular and molecular players involved in cytokine release driven by TCBs and provides a rationale for the prevention of CRS in patients treated with TCBs.

See related commentary by Luri-Rey et al., p. 4320
Data from EXAMINING THE BARRIERS AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS VACCINE DELIVERY IN CANCER CARE SETTINGS: A MIXED-METHODS STUDY
Authors: Garcia Melany A. , Schlecht Nicolas F. , Rokitka Denise A. , Attwood Kristopher M. , Rodriguez Elisa M.
Published: June 2023

Abstract
While pediatric, adolescent, and young adult (PAYA) cancer survivors are at increased risks for secondary cancers, their HPV vaccine uptake rates are poor. Therefore, we conducted a mixed-methods study to identify the barriers and opportunities for HPV vaccine delivery among PAYA cancer care providers. We distributed a semi-structured questionnaire to a professional organization comprised of PAYA oncology and hematology healthcare providers between April-July 2022. Questionnaire measures included demographic and practice characteristics, HPV vaccine knowledge, willingness, barriers, opportunities, and roles for HPV vaccine delivery. Descriptive characteristics were generated for quantitative data, and content analysis was used to identify themes. A total of 49 providers responded to our survey. A majority were female (68%) and non-Hispanic white (74%). Approximately 76% were oncology or hematology physicians, and most worked in a cancer center or children’s hospital (86%). Over half (63%) had been practicing for >15 years, and a majority saw patients ages 11-17. Although less than half reported discussing HPV vaccination with their patients, 69% were willing to become involved in HPV vaccine delivery. The most frequently reported barriers identified in our content analysis were related to system-level factors. Furthermore, providers identified opportunities within cancer prevention education, transitions in care, and at the system-level. Although barriers to HPV vaccination persist in cancer care, most providers perceived there to be opportunities to become involved in HPV vaccine delivery. Identifying strategies for PAYA oncology and hematology healthcare providers to adopt a stronger role in HPV vaccination remains a significant opportunity for future implementation research.
Data from Immunogenetic Metabolomics Reveals Key Enzymes That Modulate CAR T-cell Metabolism and Function
Authors: Renauer Paul , Park Jonathan J. , Bai Meizhu , Acosta Arianny , Lee Won-Ho , Lin Guang Han , Zhang Yueqi , Dai Xiaoyun , Wang Guangchuan , Errami Youssef , Wu Terence , Clark Paul , Ye Lupeng , Yang Quanjun , Chen Sidi
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Immune evasion is a critical step of cancer progression that remains a major obstacle for current T cell–based immunotherapies. Hence, we investigated whether it is possible to genetically reprogram T cells to exploit a common tumor-intrinsic evasion mechanism whereby cancer cells suppress T-cell function by generating a metabolically unfavorable tumor microenvironment (TME). In an in silico screen, we identified ADA and PDK1 as metabolic regulators. We then showed that overexpression (OE) of these genes enhanced the cytolysis of CD19-specific chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells against cognate leukemia cells, and conversely, ADA or PDK1 deficiency dampened this effect. ADA-OE in CAR T cells improved cancer cytolysis under high concentrations of adenosine, the ADA substrate, and an immunosuppressive metabolite in the TME. High-throughput transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis of these CAR T cells revealed alterations of global gene expression and metabolic signatures in both ADA- and PDK1-engineered CAR T cells. Functional and immunologic analyses demonstrated that ADA-OE increased proliferation and decreased exhaustion in CD19-specific and HER2-specific CAR T cells. ADA-OE improved tumor infiltration and clearance by HER2-specific CAR T cells in an in vivo colorectal cancer model. Collectively, these data unveil systematic knowledge of metabolic reprogramming directly in CAR T cells and reveal potential targets for improving CAR T-cell therapy.
Metronomic Administration of Topotecan Alone and in Combination with Docetaxel Inhibits Epithelial–mesenchymal Transition in Aggressive Variant Prostate Cancers
Authors: Mitra Ghosh Taraswi , Mazumder Suman , Davis Joshua , Yadav Jyoti , Akinpelu Ayuba , Alnaim Ahmed , Kumar Harish , Waliagha Razan , Church Bird Allison E. , Rais-Bahrami Soroush , Bird R. Curtis , Mistriotis Panagiotis , Mishra Amarjit , Yates Clayton C. , Mitra Amit K. , Arnold Robert D.
Published: June 2023

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of noncutaneous cancer-related deaths in American men. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), radical prostatectomy, and radiotherapy remain the primary treatment for patients with early-stage prostate cancer (castration-sensitive prostate cancer). Following ADT, many patients ultimately develop metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Standard chemotherapy options for CRPC are docetaxel (DTX) and cabazitaxel, which increase median survival, although the development of resistance is common. Cancer stem-like cells possess mesenchymal phenotypes [epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)] and play crucial roles in tumor initiation and progression of mCRPC. We have shown that low-dose continuous administration of topotecan (METRO-TOPO) inhibits prostate cancer growth by interfering with key cancer pathway genes. This study utilized bulk and single-cell or whole-transcriptome analysis [(RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq)], and we observed greater expression of several EMT markers, including Vimentin, hyaluronan synthase-3, S100 calcium binding protein A6, TGFB1, CD44, CD55, and CD109 in European American and African American aggressive variant prostate cancer (AVPC) subtypes—mCRPC, neuroendocrine variant (NEPC), and taxane-resistant. The taxane-resistant gene FSCN1 was also expressed highly in single-cell subclonal populations in mCRPC. Furthermore, metronomic-topotecan single agent and combinations with DTX downregulated these EMT markers as well as CD44+ and CD44+/CD133+ “stem-like” cell populations. A microfluidic chip-based cell invasion assay revealed that METRO-TOPO treatment as a single agent or in combination with DTX was potentially effective against invasive prostate cancer spread. Our RNA-seq and scRNA-seq analysis were supported by in silico and in vitro studies, suggesting METRO-TOPO combined with DTX may inhibit oncogenic progression by reducing cancer stemness in AVPC through the inhibition of EMT markers and multiple oncogenic factors/pathways.

Significance:

The utilization of metronomic-like dosing regimens of topotecan alone and in combination with DTX resulted in the suppression of makers associated with EMT and stem-like cell populations in AVPC models. The identification of molecular signatures and their potential to serve as novel biomarkers for monitoring treatment efficacy and disease progression response to treatment efficacy and disease progression were achieved using bulk RNA-seq and single-cell-omics methodologies.
Equity in Cardio-Oncology Care and Research: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Addison Daniel , Branch Mary , Baik Alan H. , Fradley Michael G. , Okwuosa Tochi , Reding Kerryn W. , Simpson Kathleen E. , Suero-Abreu Giselle Alexandra , Yang Eric H. , Yancy Clyde W. ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Cardio-Oncology Committee of the Council on Clinical Cardiology and Council on Genomic and Precision Medicine; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; Council on Lifelong Congenital Heart Disease and Heart Health in the Young; and the Council on Cardiovascular Radiology and Intervention
Published: June 2023

Advances in cancer therapeutics have revolutionized survival outcomes in patients with cancer. However, cardiovascular toxicities associated with specific cancer therapeutics adversely affect the outcomes of patients with cancer. Recent studies have uncovered excess risks of these cardiotoxic events, especially in traditionally underrepresented populations. Despite advances in strategies to limit the risks of cardiovascular events among cancer survivors, relatively limited guidance is available to address the rapidly growing problem of disparate cardiotoxic risks among women and underrepresented patient populations. Previously decentralized and sporadic evaluations have led to a lack of consensus on the definitions, investigation, and potential optimal strategies to address disparate cardiotoxicity in contemporary cancer care (eg, with immunotherapy, biologic, or cytotoxic therapies) settings. This scientific statement aims to define the current state of evidence for disparate cardiotoxicity while proposing uniform and novel methodological approaches to inform the identification and mitigation of disparate cardio-oncology outcomes in future clinical trials, registries, and daily clinical care settings. We also propose an evidence-based integrated approach to identify and mitigate disparities in the routine clinical setting. This consensus scientific statement summarizes and clarifies available evidence while providing guidance on addressing inequities in the era of emerging anticancer therapies.
Socioeconomic Inequalities in Functional Outcome After Reperfusion-Treated Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Buus Sine Mette Øgendahl , Schmitz Marie Louise , Cordsen Pia , Paaske Johnsen Søren , Andersen Grethe , Simonsen Claus Ziegler
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND:

We aimed to investigate whether socioeconomic status (SES) was associated with functional outcome in patients with ischemic stroke treated with reperfusion therapy (intravenous thrombolysis and/or thrombectomy).

METHODS:

This nationwide cohort study included reperfusion-treated patients with ischemic stroke ≥18 years registered in the Danish Stroke Registry between 2015 and 2018. Functional outcome was determined by the modified Rankin Scale score 90 days after stroke. SES was defined by educational attainment, family income, and employment status before stroke. SES data were available from Statistics Denmark and linked on the individual level with data from the Danish Stroke Registry. Uni- and multivariable ordinal logistic regression was performed for each socioeconomic parameter individually (education, income, and employment) to estimate the common odds ratios (cORs) for lower 90-day modified Rankin Scale scores.

RESULTS:

A total of 5666 patients were included. Mean age was 68.7 years (95% CI, 68.3–69.0), and 38.4% were female. Low SES was associated with lower odds for achieving lower 90-day modified Rankin Scale score: Low versus high education, cOR, 0.69 (95% CI, 0.61–0.79), low versus high income, cOR, 0.59 (95% CI, 0.53–0.67), and unemployed versus employed, cOR, 0.70 (95% CI, 0.58–0.83). Inequalities were reduced after adjusting for age, sex, and immigrant status, except for unemployed versus employed patients, adjusted cOR, 0.66 (95% CI, 0.54–0.80). No statistically significant differences remained after adjusting for potentially mediating variables (eg, stroke severity, prestroke modified Rankin Scale, and smoking).

CONCLUSIONS:

Socioeconomic inequalities were observed in functional outcome after reperfusion treated ischemic stroke. In particular, prestroke unemployment was negatively associated with good functional outcome. A more adverse prognostic profile among patients with low SES appeared to explain the majority of these inequalities.
Differences in Stroke Recurrence Risk Between Atrial Fibrillation Detected on ECG and 14-Day Cardiac Monitoring
Authors: Alvarado-Bolaños Alonso , Ayan Diana , Khaw Alexander V. , Mai Lauren M. , Mandzia Jennifer L. , Bogiatzi Chrysi , Mrkobrada Marko , Bres-Bullrich Maria , Fleming Lorraine A. , Lippert Corbin , Fridman Sebastian , Sposato Luciano A.
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND:

Ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) standard-of-care etiological investigations include an ECG and prolonged cardiac monitoring (PCM). Atrial fibrillation (AF) detected after stroke has been generally considered a single entity, regardless of how it is diagnosed. We hypothesized that ECG-detected AF is associated with a higher risk of stroke recurrence than AF detected on 14-day Holter (PCM-detected AF).

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective, registry-based, cohort study of consecutive patients with ischemic stroke and TIA included in the London Ontario Stroke Registry between 2018 and 2020, with ECG-detected and PCM-detected AF lasting ≥30 seconds. We quantified PCM-detected AF burden. The primary outcome was recurrent ischemic stroke, ascertained by systematically reviewing all medical records until November 2022. We applied marginal cause–specific Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for qualifying event type (ischemic stroke versus TIA), CHA₂DS₂-VASc score, anticoagulation, left ventricular ejection fraction, left atrial size, and high-sensitivity troponin T to estimate adjusted hazard ratios for recurrent ischemic stroke.

RESULTS:

We included 366 patients with ischemic stroke and TIA with AF, 218 ECG-detected, and 148 PCM-detected. Median PCM duration was 12 (interquartile range, 8.8–14.0) days. Median PCM-detected AF duration was 5.2 (interquartile range, 0.3–33.0) hours, with a burden (total AF duration/total net monitoring duration) of 2.23% (interquartile range, 0.13%–12.25%). Anticoagulation rate at the end of follow-up or at the first event was 83.1%. After a median follow-up of 17 (interquartile range, 5–34) months, recurrent ischemic strokes occurred in 16 patients with ECG-detected AF (13 on anticoagulants) and 2 with PCM-detected AF (both on anticoagulants). Recurrent ischemic stroke rates for ECG-detected and PCM-detected AF groups were 4.05 and 0.72 per 100 patient-years (adjusted hazard ratio, 5.06 [95% CI, 1.13–22.7];
P
=0.034).

CONCLUSIONS:

ECG-detected AF was associated with 5-fold higher adjusted recurrent ischemic stroke risk than PCM-detected AF in a cohort of ischemic stroke and TIA with >80% anticoagulation rate.
Human-Horse Relationships, Horse Welfare, and Abuse in Mexico: A Social Representation Approach
Authors: Monterrubio Carlos , Dashper Katherine , Hernández-Espinosa Rafael
Published: June 2023

Drawing on social representation theory, this study explored horse handlers’ understandings of “good” treatment, abuse, and human-horse relationships in tourism, leisure, and sport events in Mexico to examine the ways in which attitudes toward horse welfare are shaped by both national and cultural discourses and wider norms of the global equestrian community. Based on in-depth interviews, the study revealed that national and subcultural norms of the equestrian social world shape people’s attitudes to what is deemed “good treatment” and what is “abuse.” It suggests the need to understand better how cultural factors shape different people’s attitudes to those standards and look for ways to safeguard horse welfare while valuing local heritage.
A Sight Full of Woe: The Cecil Family and Their Monuments c.1580–1620
Authors: Sherlock Peter
Published: June 2023

This essay is the first collective analysis of the monuments of William Cecil, Lord Burghley, and his family. Between 1580 and 1620 Burghley and his son Robert Cecil were prolific patrons of monuments for themselves and their immediate family members in Westminster Abbey and near their country houses at Stamford, Lincolnshire, and Hatfield, Hertfordshire. Their commissions were typical of Elizabethan monuments: they reflected the maxim that magnificence in memory should be proportionate to the honour the dead enjoyed in life, they focused on aristocratic concerns to transfer land and power from one generation to the next, and they replaced the early sixteenth-century fear of purgatorial suffering with the Protestant hope of the resurrection. Unusually, however, the Cecils’ monuments included emotionally charged inscriptions, recording for posterity their grief at the death of wives, mothers and daughters, as well as pride in their progeny and legacy. This case study demonstrates that early modern objects such as monuments to the dead could communicate love and grief, mirth and despair, hope and happiness to future generations through their words and images.
Cultivating Digital Reflexivity as Resistance to Digital Dualism: Doing Digital Ethnography with U.S. Congregations During the covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Raffety Erin
Published: June 2023

This article reflexively reviews methods for training researchers developed during a national studying of thriving congregations in the United States during the covid-19 pandemic (2020-2022) as a case study on doing digital ethnography (ethnography that uses digital methods to study and engage critically with digital culture). The article outlines the importance of digital culture (expressions of identity offline are not separate from online formation; see Campbell 2012) and digital dualism (outmoded assumptions about binaries between online/offline spaces; see Jurgenson 2011) for doing digital ethnography, and argues that as long as digital dualism lurks not only among congregations, but also within researchers and their methodologies, it undermines knowledge of congregations. Therefore, the article develops the concept of digital reflexivity (the interrogation of one’s own digital cultural experiences, identities, and power, in tension with one’s relationships), arguing for its usefulness for ethnographic studies of congregations, practices of congregational ministry, and theological education.
First eupnoid harvestmen (Arachnida: Opiliones: Eupnoi) from mid-Cretaceous Kachin amber, with notes on sexual dimorphism in Halitherses grimaldii (Arachnida: Opiliones: Dyspnoi)
Authors: BARTEL CHRISTIAN , DUNLOP JASON A.
Published: June 2023

The first eupnoid harvestmen (Opiliones: Eupnoi) are described from the mid-Cretaceous (ca. 99 Ma) Burmese amber (Kachin State, northern Myanmar). All four living suborders of Opiliones are now known from this amber source. Tyrannobunus aculeus gen. et sp. nov. preserves a unique combination of characters including spiny legs, large eyes in an anterior position and a relatively undifferentiated penis. These characters may be plesiomorphic for Eupnoi and are consistent with the hypothesis that the new species belongs to a relatively basal lineage within the suborder. Two more, probably immature, eupnoids are described and figured. They probably belong to the eupnoid family Phalangiidae, but are not formally named at this stage. Additionally, a new Burmese amber specimen is assigned here to Halitherses grimaldii (?) Giribet & Dunlop, 2005 (Dyspnoi: Halithersidae). It reveals for the first time a (male?) cheliceral apophysis and thus offers the first evidence for secondary sexual dimorphism in this extinct family.
1. The Key to Peace: The Return of the Refugees
Authors: Abu Sitta Salman
Published: June 2023

It is clear from the groundswell of indignation in the Arab world that their rulers must follow a policy of reciprocal action. Good relations could prevail only if respect for national interests is reciprocated, not to speak of respect for international law. This chapter shows how this could be possible. Israel pursues a policy of unattainable objectives. Its dream of numerical superiority is short-lived. Its practice of apartheid and racism is doomed. Its denial of human rights will not remain un-censured. Finally, its total dependence on its military might, and on US singular obedience to its every whim, is the epitome of short-sightedness. If Israel is to survive where it has been planted, it should uphold the common principles by which neighbours live: each on the territory he owns, not on the territory he occupies by force. The rights of each party must be respected.
6. Being Palestinian
Authors: Nabulsi Karma
Published: June 2023

In this chapter I will illustrate and explain how my own identity is not based on a combination of the national particularisms that gave rise to the Palestinian people, but rather, upon the glue which keeps us together. My identity is based exclusively on the general will. In order to set out how and why it has happened that I rely upon the general will rather than traditional nationalist claims for identity, it is necessary to first present the particularism and history of the Palestinian people who are largely a refugee population. Next it will explain how the general will functions within Palestinian society, which crosses borders and host countries to express itself. It will conclude with examples of why Palestinian identity is so caught up in an essential struggle to create just institutions, especially for the protection of the rights of refugees, and why this latter issue is cast within the dual quest for liberty and democracy which – in our case as in most people’s – are intertwined.
8. Archaeology, Architecture and the Politics of Verticality
Authors: Weizman Eyal
Published: June 2023

The Israeli-Palestinian is defined by where and how one builds. This chapter explores the politics of verticality. The terrain dictates the nature, intensity and focal points of confrontation. On the other hand, the conflict manifests itself most clearly in the adaptation, construction and obliteration of landscape and built environment. Planning decisions are often made not according to criteria of economical sustainability, ecology or efficiency of services, but to serve strategic and national agendas. The West Bank is a landscape of extreme topographical variation, ranging from four hundred and forty metres below sea level at the shores of the Dead Sea, to about one thousand metres in the high summits of Samaria. Settlements occupy the high ground, while Palestinian villages occupy the fertile valley in between. This topographical difference defines the relationship between Jewish and Palestinian settlements in terms of strategy, economy and ecology. The politics of verticality is exemplified across the folded surface of the terrain–in which the mountainous region has influenced the forms the territorial conflict has produced.
Effect of Serum Bilirubin Levels on Contrast-induced Acute Kidney Injury: A Systematic Evaluation and Meta-analysis
Authors: Lyu Lin , Miao Yuxin , Liu Xuequan , Dong He , Chu Haichen , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: June 2023

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is an important complication following the use of iodinated contrast media. Bilirubin has a protective effect but may also aggravate CI-AKI. The purpose of this systematic review was to assess whether bilirubin is a risk factor for CI-AKI. We searched the databases PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Ovid Medline, CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure), VPCS (Vip Paper Check System), Wanfang, and CBM (Chinese BioMedical Literature Database) from the initial date to May 6, 2023. We summarized the results by directly combining the effect-size odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) and identified sources of heterogeneity through subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis, and meta-regression analysis. A total of 10 studies (14 data sets) were included: 7 retrospective studies (10 data sets) and 3 prospective studies (4 data sets), involving 12776 participants. The incidence of CI-AKI of 16% (95% CI: 14-19%). Total bilirubin was positively associated with the occurrence of CI-AKI (OR = 1.80; 95% CI: 1.36-2.38). Both low and high bilirubin concentrations were risk factors for CI-AKI. The incidence of CI-AKI was higher in the low bilirubin group than in the high bilirubin group.
Dimensional stability, durability and performance of hybrid recycled cellulose fibres reinforcing earth-based materials
Authors: Stanislas Tido Tiwa , Mahamat Assia Aboubakar , Bilba Ketty , Onésippe-Potiron Cristel , Arsène Marie-Ange , Savastano Holmer
Published: June 2023

Brittle fracture initially occurs at the nanometric and/or interatomic scale without prior plastic deformation under elastic loading. Fibres of different dimensional scales in hybrid composites provide dense packaging and act as reinforcements in the corresponding scales and dimensions. This study evaluated the effect of the inclusion of cellulose pulp (CP) (5wt%, 4.5wt%, 4wt% and 3.5wt%) combined with cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) (0.5wt%, 1wt% and 1.5wt%) from recycled cardboard on the water absorption, density, dimensional stability, thermal insulation, flexural strength and durability of earth-based materials. The total cellulose content (CP and CNF) is set at 5wt%. The results show that the partial replacement of CP by CNF contributes to an increase in the moisture content of the composite from 18% to 21%, while there is a reduction in their dry shrinkage from 2.29% to 1.29% and in their thermal conductivity from 0.42 to 0.39 W/m.K. This is attributed to the different dimensional scales of the fibres in hybrid composites, which provide a dense assembly with greater dimensional stability. The 3.5% CP content combined with 1.5% CNF showed the highest flexural strength (2.76 MPa) and modulus of elasticity (1.93 GPa) of the hybrid materials under four-point bending loading, due to the high anchorage between the cellulose fibres and the matrix. CP and CNF as reinforcing agents in an earth-based matrix is a suitable solution for improving the flexural strength, density, dimensional stability and durability of building bricks. However, bricks reinforced only with CP are recommended where flexural strength and toughness are essential requirements.
“I Love You to Death”: Social Networks and the Widowhood Effect on Mortality
Authors: Cornwell Benjamin , Qu Tianyao
Published: June 2023

Research on “the widowhood effect” shows that mortality rates are greater among people who have recently lost a spouse. There are several medical and psychological explanations for this (e.g., “broken heart syndrome”) and sociological explanations that focus on spouses’ shared social-environmental exposures. We expand on sociological perspectives by arguing that couples’ social connections to others play a role in this phenomenon. Using panel data on 1,169 older adults from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project, we find that mortality is associated with how well embedded one’s spouse is in one’s own social network. The widowhood effect is greater among those whose spouses were not well connected to one’s other network members. We speculate that the loss of a less highly embedded spouse signals the loss of unique, valuable, nonredundant social resources from one’s network. We discuss theoretical interpretations, alternative explanations, limitations, and directions for future research.
The Rebel Foreign Fighter Dataset
Authors: Schwartz Jack
Published: June 2023

This article introduces the Rebel Foreign Fighter Dataset (RFFD) which can be used to expand research on civil war and foreign fighters (FFs). First, it largely expands the previously reported data on the number of FFs that have and continue to be involved in conflicts across the globe. Second, this database disaggregates FFs into the various rebel groups they inhabit as opposed to simply categorizing them as residing within a rebel movement. Third, low, high and best estimates of FFs within rebel groups have been provided as well as providing a novel FF ordinal coding mechanism. These additions allow for more accurate conclusions to be drawn on the effects of FFs on specific groups as well as on the conflict in which they reside. Using the RFFD, the link between FF inclusion and civilian sexual violence discussed in Doctor’s study will be re-examined. The new findings show that FF numbers below 1,000 do not have a significant impact on moderate levels of civilian victimization perpetrated by a rebel group and FF numbers below 100 do not have a significant impact on high levels of civilian victimization.
Urban public health emergencies and the COVID-19 pandemic. Part 2: Infrastructures, urban governance and civil society
Authors: Fan Yingling , Orford Scott , Hubbard Philip
Published: June 2023

COVID-19 had sudden and dramatic impacts on the organisation and governance of urban life. In Part 2 of this Special Issue on public health emergencies we question the extent to which the pandemic ushered in fundamentally new understandings of urban public health, noting that ideas of urban pathology and the relation of dirt, disease and danger in cities, have long informed practices of planning. Emphasising important continuities in the way pandemics are associated with minoritised and vulnerable groups, past and present, we note that public health initiatives can often exacerbate existing health divides, and actually deepen health crises. Against this, we document the emergence of participatory, community-led responses to the pandemic that offered the promise of more inclusive urban policy, often characterised by self-organisation. While we argue that any public health policy needs to be mindful of local contingencies, the promise of inclusive policies is that they will lead to healthier cities for all, not simply protect the health of the wealthy few.