bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract B018: A robust system to study human soft-tissue sarcoma lung metastasis
Authors: Muñoz Maria , Carr-Ascher Janai R.
Published: September 2022

Soft-tissue sarcoma (STS) is a rare connective tissue cancer that encompasses over 50 distinct subtypes including liposarcoma, undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) and pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcoma. While these subtypes are histologically and genetically different, all are capable of metastasizing into the lungs. However, the mechanisms of metastasis are poorly understood, and patients with metastatic disease have low survival rates. Current statistics show that these patients have a 15% 5-year relative survival rate. It is crucial to understand the mechanisms of metastasis to improve patient therapeutics and survival. Thus, we developed a robust system to enrich and study spontaneous metastatic cells in STS. To do this, we started by screening multiple cell lines for metastatic activity in-vivo. First, immunocompromised mice were injected in the thigh (intramuscularly) with tumor cells. The liposarcoma cell line SW872 gave rise to metastatic tumors in the lung although with limited penetrance and a long latency. Therefore, we identified a mouse with a high metastatic burden and generated a cell line from the primary tumor that was highly metastatic. These serially passaged cells were injected intramuscularly into the thigh of immunocompromised mice and allowed to spontaneously metastasize. This resulted in earlier detection of tumors, and a decreased latency to metastatic disease. For downstream analysis, we enriched the metastatic population resulting from the serially passaged tumor. This was accomplished by first digesting lungs, then depleting mouse cells with magnetic beads. We further enriched the population by sorting HLA-APC positive (human) cells using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). This process was necessary to reduce mouse cell contamination, and ensure we solely analyzed human cells. Afterwards, metastatic cells can be compared to the primary tumor using RNA, ATAC or Whole-Exome sequencing. We hypothesize that a comparison between the primary and metastatic tumors will identify pathways that allow cells to metastasize. These pathways can be targeted in future therapeutics to improve patient outcomes. This system can also be applied to other STS subtypes. Overall, our robust system allows us to study spontaneous lung metastases, is reflective of the human disease and will provide insight into the mechanisms of metastasis in STS.

Citation Format: Maria Muñoz, Janai R. Carr-Ascher. A robust system to study human soft-tissue sarcoma lung metastasis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Sarcomas; 2022 May 9-12; Montreal, QC, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2022;28(18_Suppl):Abstract nr B018.
Abstract B021: Long non-coding RNAs that are required for robust cell growth in ewing Sarcoma
Authors: Briones Martin del Campo Marcela C. , Lee Alex , Horlbeck Max , Dinh Truc , Roman-Moreno Marta , Sayles Leanne , Seong Bokyung , Stegmaier Kimberly , Gilbert Luke , Sweet-Cordero E. Alejandro
Published: September 2022

While long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are upregulated in many cancers, their role in pediatric cancers is unclear. Among pediatric cancers, Ewing sarcoma is unique in that these tumors show upregulation of a large, specific number of lncRNAs. To perform an unbiased screen of lncRNA function in Ewing sarcoma, we used a pooled CRISPRi screen to identify lncRNAs that modify cell growth. We included in the pooled library lncRNAs either highly expressed in Ewing Sarcoma or directly regulated by the driving oncogene in Ewing Sarcoma, EWS-FLI. We identified 49 lncRNAs that when inhibited by CRISPRi led to decreased growth of Ewing cell lines. Among those that scored most significantly were the small nucleolar host genes SNHG1, SNHG12, and SNHG30. To validate the screening results, we individually cloned the two most depleted sgRNAs targeting for each of these three lncRNAs into a lentiviral vector. We expressed these sgRNAs in three different dCas9-KRAB+ Ewing cell lines and used internally controlled growth assays to test whether the observed phenotypes from the screens were reproducible. We confirmed that for all three lncRNAs hits significantly affected Ewing’s growth, and their depletion leads to an increase in apoptosis. To determine how lncRNAs influence the ability of Ewing sarcoma cells to growth and survive in vivo, we performed a subcutaneous xenograft CRISPRi screen using the same pooled library used in vitro. The lncRNAs with the strongest pro-growth phenotype after knock-down were PVT1 and the uncharacterized LINC02688. Ongoing studies are directed at determining the Ewing-specific role of these lncRNAs. Overall, our studies demonstrate the value of studying lncRNA functions in vitro and in vivo, provides a valuable resource of new lncRNAs targets to further research and establishes a framework for systematic discovery of functional lncRNAs in Ewing cells.

Citation Format: Marcela C. Briones Martin del Campo, Alex Lee, Max Horlbeck, Truc Dinh, Marta Roman-Moreno, Leanne Sayles, Bokyung Seong, Kimberly Stegmaier, Luke Gilbert, E. Alejandro Sweet-Cordero. Long non-coding RNAs that are required for robust cell growth in ewing Sarcoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Sarcomas; 2022 May 9-12; Montreal, QC, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2022;28(18_Suppl):Abstract nr B021.
Abstract B030: Induction chemotherapy plus concurrent chemoradiotherapy led to clinical complete response in locally advanced sinonasal rhabdosarcomas
Authors: Wu Qiuji , Li Shaojie , Wang Juan , Liu Jia , Zhong Yahua
Published: September 2022

Background: Sinonasal rhabdosarcoma is a rare but aggressive malignancy. In cases where locally advanced diseases involve critical structures such as the orbital and cranial cavities, surgery may not guarantee safety margin. Therefore, we evaluated the effect of induction chemotherapy plus concurrent chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced sinonasal rhabdosarcoma. Methods: During January 2013 to January 2019, 4 patients (2 males and 2 females, 22 to 33 years old) with locally advanced sinonasal rhabdosarcoma (3 alveolar and 1 poorly differentiated rhabdosarcoma) were treated with induction chemotherapy followed by concurrent radiochemotherapy. The patients were staged as cT4N0M0, cT4N0M0, cT4N1M0, and cT3N1M0 respectively. The patients were treated with induction chemotherapy composed of 2 to 4 cycles of EI regimen (epirubicin 60mg/m2, day 1-day 2; Ifosfamide 1.8g/m2, day 1-day 5; every 21 days) based on their tolerance. Thereafter, all patients received concurrent radiochemotherapy with 70Gy in 30 fractions given to the primary tumors and 63Gy in 30 fractions to the lymph nodes in N1 patients. Concurrent chemotherapy with cisplatin (100mg/m2, day 1 and day 22) was delivered during the course of radiotherapy. The follow-up time was 29, 28, 7 and 4 months, respectively. Results: Induction chemotherapy yielded partial response and concurrent radiochemotherapy led to clinical complete response. No sign of local recurrence was detected until the last follow-up. Only one patient had vertebral metastasis 6 months post-treatment in T10 and received vertebral irradiation. Others were free of distant metastasis. During the induction chemotherapy, all patients were presented with grade IV leucopenia, 3 of whom developed febrile neutropenia that required dose reduction in the consecutive chemotherapies. Concurrent radiochemotherapy was well tolerated, 3 patients developed grade II leucopenia and 1 grade IV leucopenia. All patients experienced grade II gastrointestinal side effects, dermatitis, and stomatitis. Conclusions: Induction chemotherapy plus concurrent chemoradiotherapy could lead to clinical complete response in locally advanced sinonasal rhabdosarcoma. Hematological toxicities were the most common toxicities and should be monitored and treated carefully. Longer follow-up and larger scale of study are needed to confirm these results.

Citation Format: Qiuji Wu, Shaojie Li, Juan Wang, Jia Liu, Yahua Zhong. Induction chemotherapy plus concurrent chemoradiotherapy led to clinical complete response in locally advanced sinonasal rhabdosarcomas [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Sarcomas; 2022 May 9-12; Montreal, QC, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2022;28(18_Suppl):Abstract nr B030.
Abstract IA010: Novel targeted therapy approaches in NF1-MPNST
Authors: Pratilas Christine A.
Published: September 2022

NF1 is an essential negative regulator of RAS activity and its function is lost in nearly 90% of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST). Additional recurrent molecular changes include loss of function alterations in CDKN2A, TP53, EED and SUZ12, but molecular targeting of these genomic events represents a unique challenge. We previously reported that the efficacy of MEK inhibitor is limited by adaptive activation of receptor tyrosine kinases and the adaptor protein SHP2, and that combined inhibition of MEK and SHP2 is effective in MPNST. However, the clinical potential of combination MEK and SHP2 inhibitors may be limited by the overlapping toxicity induced by ERK pathway inhibition. Genetic depletion of PTPN11 has substantial growth inhibitory effects in preclinical models of MPNST, suggesting that SHP2 is an exciting new focus for targeted therapy development in NF1-MPSNT. Loss of CDKN2A, inactivation of RB1, and hyperactivation of cyclin dependent kinases (CDK) in MPNST also suggest that small-molecule CDK4/6 inhibitors (CDK4/6i) may offer a potential combination strategy. Our preclinical data suggest that this combination is active, well-tolerated, and has the potential for immediate advancement into clinical trials.

Citation Format: Christine A. Pratilas. Novel targeted therapy approaches in NF1-MPNST [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Sarcomas; 2022 May 9-12; Montreal, QC, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2022;28(18_Suppl):Abstract nr IA010.
Abstract IA026: Epigenetic and genomic features define distinct cellular states with possible therapeutic relevance in osteosarcoma
Authors: Sweet-Cordero E. Alejandro
Published: September 2022

The Osteosarcoma (OS) genome is characterized by aneuploidy and dramatic structural rearrangements often leading to copy number gain and loss. Currently, all patients with osteoblastic OS at diagnosis are treated with the same highly toxic chemotherapy and no clinically relevant subtypes have been identified. While there is significant heterogeneity at the genome level between patients, less is known regarding epigenetic heterogeneity and how this may impact critical phenotypes such as therapy response and metastasis. To characterize the osteosarcoma epigenome, we integrated ATAC-seq and RNA-seq across a unique set of patient samples, PDXs and PDX-derived cell lines obtained across the disease continuum and including biopsies, resections, and metastasis. ATACseq analysis revealed the presence of two distinct epigenetic cell states (C1 and C2). Associating the differential genomic regions to likely regulated genes, the enriched pathways of Cluster 1 (C1) are related to mesenchymal cell proliferation, skeletal system morphogenesis, osteoblast differentiation, and Wnt signaling pathway. In contrast, Cluster 2 (C2) enriched pathways are related to cell motility and migration, extracellular matrix organization and regulation of protein serine/threonine kinase activity. Furthermore, accessible chromatin regions were enriched for a distinct set of transcription factor binding sites. We then assessed whether these epigenetic states were associated with response to targeted therapies. We identified unique vulnerability of C1 cell lines to AURK inhibitors whereas C2 cell lines had evidence for upregulation of MAPK and were vulnerable to treatment with trametinib. ATACseq analysis of PDX and a limited number of patient samples confirmed that these subtypes of OS also likely exist in patient tumors. In parallel to these studies, we have also carried out extensive additional analysis of vulnerability of OS cell ines to a wide range of targeted therapies. We find evidence for significant response to several inhibitors of the ATR-WEE1-CHK1 pathway nominating this as a potential novel vulnerability for OS. Therapeutic relevance of these findings is currently being explores in an orthotopic metastasis model of OS. Overall, our findings may define new subtypes of osteosarcoma with unique therapeutic vulnerabilities.

Citation Format: E. Alejandro Sweet-Cordero. Epigenetic and genomic features define distinct cellular states with possible therapeutic relevance in osteosarcoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Sarcomas; 2022 May 9-12; Montreal, QC, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2022;28(18_Suppl):Abstract nr IA026.
Abstract PR008: The 3D epigenome of rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Gryder Berkley E. , Osman Issra , Durbin Adam , Qi Jun
Published: September 2022

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is driven by transcription factors that set up super-enhancers: large clusters of transcriptional machinery accumulated at oncogenes. Super-enhancers are also the key vulnerability of RMS, as we have revealed by CRISPR screening and chemical genomics. However, the identification of super-enhancers is inconsistent, because they are extracted from 1-dimensional ChIP-seq data, but are in fact 3D genomic objects (“super-clusters”) that form biomolecular condensates (phase-separated droplets). We have now applied new 3D genomics approaches to enable proper discovery of these epigenomic features, also yielding proper enhancer-gene connectivity maps. Furthermore, super-clusters are co-built by transcription factors recruiting p300 (acetylation writer) and BRD4 (acetylation reader). We have generated preliminary evidence that directly perturbing/degrading p300 and BRD4 are the most effective and selective means to shut down super-clusters at all oncogenes driving this childhood cancer. We applied Absolute Quantification of Architecture (AQuA) HiChIP, and were able to uncover the drug-induced 3D folding abnormalities that selectively halt RNA-Polymerase 2 at super-cluster driven oncogenes in this sarcoma.

Citation Format: Berkley E. Gryder, Issra Osman, Adam Durbin, Jun Qi. The 3D epigenome of rhabdomyosarcoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Sarcomas; 2022 May 9-12; Montreal, QC, Canada. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2022;28(18_Suppl):Abstract nr PR008.
Infantile Digital Fibromatosis/Inclusion Body Fibromatosis: A Comprehensive Literature Review
Authors: Godse Rama , Dany Mohammed , Tamazian Shant , Wan Joy , Jen Melinda , Rubin Adam Ian
Published: September 2022

Infantile digital fibromatosis (IDF), or inclusion body fibromatosis, is a rare benign tumor that commonly presents as a solitary nodule composed of spindle cells within the dermis on the digits of infants and children. Evaluation often includes a biopsy and typical therapies include observation, intralesional corticosteroid injections, and complete surgical resection. Given the rarity of IDF, few clinicians have direct or extensive experience diagnosing or treating it. Here we present a comprehensive review of the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment for IDF.
Does the Timing of Eribulin Treatment for Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer Matter? Evidence from a Real-World Setting
Authors: Chen Chih-Jung , Nguyen Hanh T.H. , Huang Chih-Hao , Wang Hwei-Chung , Wu Chen-Teng , Wu Yao-Chung , He Geng-Yan , Chou Chiahung , Lin Hsiang-Wen , Liu Liang-Chih
Published: September 2022

Background: This study aimed to examine the effectiveness and safety of eribulin used as an early-line (EL, i.e., first-/second-line) versus late-line (LL, i.e., third-line and beyond) chemotherapy for recurrent advanced or metastatic breast cancer (A/MBC) patients. Methods: This study conducted a retrospective observation of A/MBC patients initiating eribulin between January 1, 2015, and June 30, 2019, using medical database at a university-affiliated teaching hospital in Taiwan. Patients were assigned into either the EL or LL group based on the timing of respective eribulin treatments and were observed for at least 6 months up to December 2019 for progression-free survival (PFS), time to treatment failure (TTF), overall survival (OS), disease response, and occurrence of adverse events. The Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard regression survival analyses were performed. Results: Of 127 patients, 23.6% (n = 30) and 76.4% (n = 97) were assigned to the EL and LL groups, respectively, between which no difference in patient characteristics was noted. Median PFS and TTF were 6.5 months and 5.0 months for the EL and 4.2 months and 3.4 months for the LL, respectively. Median OS could not be estimated in the EL group and was 20.5 months in the LL group. Eribulin as an EL treatment was the only factor associated with longer TTF and OS, whereas the number of metastatic sites was additionally associated with PFS in the multivariate analysis. No complete response was reported in either group, but a partial response was obtained in 6.7% in the EL group and 3.1% in the LL group. The common adverse events between two groups were similar, including leukopenia (80.0%), neutropenia (76.7%), and anemia (60.0%). Conclusions: The eribulin used as an EL of chemotherapy was effective for A/MBC patients with known toxicities in this study, while eribulin as the LL chemotherapy showed consistent results with previous reports.
Effect of Topical Anesthesia on Reducing Pain Associated with Mydriatic Eye Drops during Retinopathy of Prematurity Screening
Authors: Kara Caner , Petriçli İkbal Seza , Uzlu Safiye Elif , Çuni Betül Tokgöz
Published: September 2022

Introduction: The study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of topical anesthetic drops in reducing the pain associated with mydriatic eye drops prior to the retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) examination. Methods: Premature infants who underwent first-time ROP examinations in an outpatient setting were included in this randomized controlled trial. The study group included the infants who were administered topical anesthesia prior to the first mydriatic drops, and the control group included the infants who were given preservative-free artificial tear drops. Pain assessment was performed using the premature infant pain profile (PIPP). Results: A total of 66 infants, 35 in the control group and 31 in the study group, were included in the study. The PIPP scores of the infants during the first, second, and third mydriatic drops were 5.3 ± 2.0; 4.9 ± 1.7; and 4.0 ± 1.8, respectively, in the study group and 5.3 ± 1.7; 5.6 ± 1.8; and 4.6 ± 1.8, respectively, in the control group. No significant difference was found in the scores between the two groups. The PIPP score after the third drop was significantly lower than that after the second drop in the control group, and the PIPP score after the third drop was significantly lower than that obtained after the first and second drops in the study group. Discussion/Conclusion: This study showed no significant benefit of the topical anesthetic drop in the prevention of pain associated with mydriatic eye drops. The decrease in the pain response observed in repeated administrations is a novel finding.
Quality and Quantity of Grandparent Contact: Associations with Late Adolescents’ Psychological Adjustment
Authors: Pittman Laura D. , Brendle Christine R. , Ioffe Micah
Published: September 2022

This study explored how grandparents influence their late adolescent grandchildren’s psychological adjustment. Late adolescent participants ( N = 474, 60% female, 63% Caucasian) reported their current relationship quality and degree of contact during elementary school for each living grandparent. Hierarchical linear regressions, controlling for demographic characteristics and parental acceptance, found that grandparent relationship quality, but not grandparent contact, was linked to multiple late adolescent outcomes (e.g., depressive symptoms, self-worth, perceived competence in close friendships, and romantic relationships). Significant associations examining both maternal grandmother and paternal grandfather relationship quality were supported, but fewer associations were found for maternal grandfathers and paternal grandmothers. Moderation analyses found more contact during childhood strengthened some of the positive associations between grandparent relationship quality and grandchildren’s self-worth and perceived competence in close friendships. The need for more research examining how specific grandparent factors are linked to grandchildren’s outcomes across developmental periods and contexts is discussed.
Gifted education and Islamic educational philosophy: A neat convergence
Authors: Lovat Terence
Published: September 2022

The issue of underserved or less visible sub-groups has been the subject of recent research in gifted education. It is a relevant item when considering gifted education germane to Islam and Islamic educational philosophy. This article will focus on the unusual convergence of these two fields of research by exploring distinctive features of Islamic education, ancient and modern, that reflect contemporary perspectives on gifted education.
Digital real-time microscopy of ex-vivo tissues: A novel strategy to control surgical accuracy
Authors: Sighinolfi Maria Chiara , Cimadamore Alessia , Cassani Alessandra , Assumma Simone , Sarchi Luca , Filippi Beatrice , Turri Filippo , Reggiani Bonetti Luca , Maiorana Antonino , Eissa Ahmed , Micali Salvatore , Montironi Rodolfo , Rocco Bernardo
Published: September 2022

Introduction:

Ex-vivo FCM is a novel digital optical technique that provides images of fresh tissues in a real-time fashion with magnification to subcellular details of a flattened unprocessed sample. Digital images are hematoxylin-eosin-like and can be shared and interpreted remotely. In urology, FCM has been successfully applied for prostate tissue interpretation, either during biopsy and radical prostatectomy. Possible applications of FCM may reflect those of frozen section analysis and can be extended to all fields in which the intra-operative microscopical control is advisable.

Materials and methods:

This is an investigative prospective case series that aims to explore FCM feasibility in novel surgical settings and provide a depiction of FCM digital images in those fields. The definite purpose is to check the accuracy of surgical specimen during the following interventions: (a) trans-urethral resection of bladder tumors, to confirm the presence of muscular layer; (b) biopsy of a retroperitoneal mass, to check for the location and quality of cores; (c) training in robotic radical prostatectomy, to control surgical margins after a nerve sparing performed by a trainee. To this aim, we collected FCM images during seven surgical procedures. FCM findings were compared to those from the final histopathological analysis and the agreement was assessed.

Results:

In all cases, FCM digital images were obtained in the OR. FCM was able to confirm the presence of muscular layer in TURB specimen, the presence of lymphomatous tissue, surgical margins at prostate specimen. FCM intra-operative interpretation was consistent with final histopathology in all cases.

Conclusions:

Ex vivo FCM may represent a novel approach to control the quality of specimens, likely to tailor surgical strategy in a real-time fashion. Moreover, digitalization represents a step toward the implementation of telepathology in clinical practice.
Identification of the tire model and road adhesion coefficient based on vehicle dynamic response data and the BP neural network algorithm
Authors: Zhu Yueyan , Zhang Tingfang , Wang Aichun , Huang Juhua , Wu Xiaojian
Published: September 2022

The longitudinal and lateral dynamic responses of a vehicle are essentially determined by the forces resulting from the contact between the tire and road surface. Therefore, identifying the tire model and road adhesion coefficient plays an important role in vehicle dynamics control. At present, the identification of a nonlinear tire model essentially assumes that slip ratio-longitudinal force data or wheel side slip angle-lateral force data are known and that nonlinear fitting is performed, and the road adhesion coefficient based on the dynamic response is also identified on the premise of a known tire model. In this paper, the characteristic of approximating arbitrary nonlinear mapping relationships by a BP neural network is taken advantage of, and an off-line identification method of the Dugoff tire model based on onboard sensors and vehicle dynamics response is proposed. On this basis, an online identification method for the road adhesion coefficient is subsequently proposed. Finally, vehicle experiments on steering and braking are performed to verify the accuracy of the method in the Simulink-CarSim joint simulation environment.
Three-Dimensional Quantification of Postoperative Facial Asymmetry in Patients With Unilateral Cleft lip and Palate Using Facial Symmetry Plane
Authors: Shiigi Ayano , Okawachi Takako , Kamiya Tohru , Hosoki Daisuke , Nomoto Namiko , Ratman Mohamad Farid , Amir Muhammad Subhan , Ishihata Kiyohide , Nakamura Norifumi
Published: September 2022

Objective

To quantitatively assess three-dimensional (3D) soft tissue facial asymmetry in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP) who have undergone primary lip repair.

Design

Clinical, retrospective, comparative, methodological study.

Patients/Participants

Twenty patients with UCLP were selected after a review of the records.

Inclusion Criteria

Complete UCLP; surgically treated without secondary repair. An age-matched and sex-matched Control group was employed.

Main Outcome Measures

A 3D facial symmetry plane (FSP) was obtained by superimposing the point clouds of the original 3D facial image excluding the surgical site and including lip and nose areas and those of a mirrored facial image using the iterative closest point (ICP) adjustment method. The discrepancies in the depth and angle of the normal vector of the facial surface of each point cloud between right and left sides (cleft and non-cleft sides in the UCLP group, respectively) based on FSP were calculated.

Results

Facial asymmetry in the UCLP group was significantly greater than in the Control group regarding both the discrepancies in the depth (1.34 ± 0.62, 0.73 ± 0.32 pixels, respectively) ( P = .0004) and surface angle (18.0 ± 5.88, 12.8 ± 4.0°, respectively) ( P = .0024). Biaxial assessment of the discrepancies in the depth and surface angle allowed us to visually extract UCLP patients with greater facial asymmetry.

Conclusions

Facial asymmetry analysis based on 3D FSP effectively facilitates the facial asymmetry quantification and soft tissue surgical outcome evaluation in patients with UCLP.
Determinants of Cervical Cancer Screening Service Utilization Among HIV-Positive Women Aged 25 Years and Above Attending Adult ART Clinics in Southern Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors: Gebrekirstos Lielt Gebreselassie , Gebremedhin Meron Hadis , Tafesse Tiwabwork Tekalign , Tura Tilahun Saol , Geleso Mulugeta Geremew , Wube Tsiyon Birhanu
Published: September 2022

Background

Cervical cancer and human immunodeficiency virus prevention are public health priorities in Ethiopia. Despite cervical cancer being preventable with the Human Papilloma Virus vaccine and cervical cancer screening, HIV-infected women still have a low rate of screening, and data are scarce in this country. Thus, this study aimed to assess the prevalence of cervical cancer screening service utilization and associated factors among HIV-positive women in Southern Tigray, Ethiopia, 2018.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was performed from March 1st to May 15th, 2018. We recruited 465 HIV-positive women using a systematic random sampling method. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, followed by multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed. Crude odds ratios, adjusted odds ratios, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported.

Results

In this study, only 8% of HIV-positive women were screened for cervical cancer. The most frequently cited barrier by participants to getting screened was feeling healthy 282 (65.9%). Multiparity {AOR = 4.12, 95% CI = (1.70, 9.95)}, provider recommendation to get screened {AOR = 3.20, 95%CI = (1.34, 7.65)}, having good knowledge {AOR = 4.33, 95%CI = (1.66-11.29)}, and high perceived susceptibility for cervical cancer {AOR = 3.10, 95% CI = (1.31-7.33)} were the factors significantly associated with cervical cancer screening service utilization.

Conclusions

The prevalence of cervical cancer screening service utilization was quite low. Provider’s recommendation to get screened, multiparity, knowledge, and perceived susceptibility were factors strongly associated with the service utilization. There is a need of routine counseling of health care providers for all HIV-positive women to get screened. Women’s lack of knowledge also needs to be addressed by informing every HIV-positive woman that they are more susceptible to cervical cancer, and that screening is critical to fighting against the disease.
Productivity regression analysis of cutter suction dredger considering operating characteristics and equipment status
Authors: Shang Gang , Xu Liyun , Tian Jinzhu , Cai Dongwei
Published: September 2022

In order to optimize the operation parameters of cutter suction dredger in real time and adjust productivity as needed, a construction optimization strategy based on real-time productivity regression analysis is proposed. Machine learning methods, including Support Vector Regression (SVR), Gradient Boosting Regression Tree (GBRT), eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) and a Super Learner that made up of them, are used to mine relevant features based on the big data of operation characteristics and equipment status. Firstly, the working principle of cutter suction dredger is analyzed, the features that need real-time monitoring are determined, and the above features are classified. Then, some missing values and outliers in the data are deleted. Next, Lasso method is used to eliminate the variables that are not related to the regression target, and the redundant variables are combined. In addition, five machine learning methods are used to train and test the off-line productivity data of cutter suction dredger. And they are used to fit recent online productivity data. Super Learner performed best, which achieved the highest R2 (0.917), the lowest RMSE (75.096) and MAE (61.422) in the five models for online regression. Furthermore, the calculation time of each model is discussed, and the feasibility of the method proposed in this study for real-time regression of online productivity data has been confirmed. Finally, the importance of characteristics is analyzed to provide guidance for dredging operations under restricted construction conditions. According to the regression results and the importance of features, operators can give priority to adjusting some features to adjust the real-time construction productivity of dredger.
Clinical outcomes at medium-term follow-up of COVID-19
Authors: Barbara Jessica-Marie , Gatt Jessica , Xuereb Rachel-Anne , Tabone Adami Nicholas , Darmanin Jessica , Erasmi Renee , G Xuereb Robert , Barbara Christopher , Stephen Fava , Jane Magri Caroline
Published: September 2022

Background:

The long coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) syndrome is defined as persistent physical, cognitive and/or psychological symptoms that continue for more than 12 weeks following the acute illness.

Methods:

In all, 2,646 patients were randomly selected from all individuals who were diagnosed with COVID-19. They were interviewed so as to assess the persistence of symptoms and health-related quality of life. Blood investigations were also taken.

Results:

The median (interquartile range (IQR)) age was 44 (31–55) years and 48.6% were males. Five per cent had been hospitalised. Follow-up was for a median of 142 days (IQR: 128–161). Twenty-two per cent of the participants claimed that they were feeling worse than they felt before COVID-19. The most common symptoms were anosmia, ageusia, fatigue, shortness of breath, headaches and myalgia. The Short Form-36 questionnaire revealed that 16.4% felt that they were somewhat worse than in the previous year and that hospitalised patients fared worse in all domains except for role-emotional. New-onset diabetes was similar to the rate of undiagnosed diabetes in the background population. Hospitalised patients had significantly higher liver transaminases, fasting plasma glucose, glycated haemoglobin, uric acid, red cell distribution width, mean platelet volume, triglyceride levels and troponin levels but lower estimated glomerular filtration rate and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol at follow-up.

Discussion:

A significant proportion of patients were symptomatic at a median follow-up of 142 days and felt worse than 1 year previously. Hospitalised patients had more biochemical and haematological abnormalities compared to non-hospitalised ones, suggesting ongoing inflammation in subjects who were more severely affected by the disease.
“Staying at Home”: A pivotal trial of telemedicine-based internal medicine hospitalization at a nursing home
Authors: Barkai G , Amir H , Dulberg O. , Itelman E , Gez G , Carmon T , Merhav L , Zigler S , Atamne A , Pinhasov O , Zimlichman E , Segal G
Published: September 2022

Background

In-hospital stay of acutely ill elderlies could be reduced by increasing the availability of community-based hospitalizations. The feasibility of remotely managing these patients by specialized internists, without leaving their nursing homes should be sought. In the current pivotal study, we aimed to evaluate the aforementioned model.

Methods

This was a prospective, open-label study at a tertiary medical center and a nursing home. The study aimed at comparing clinical outcomes of patients hospitalized in each location.

Results

Over a period of 5.5 months, we recruited 18 patients designated for hospitalization, meeting our inclusion criteria to either in-hospital stay or staying in their nursing home and treated by means of telemedicine from our tertiary medical center. The mean age was 85.3 years. Out of 114 hospitalization days, 44 days (48%) were at the nursing home. No significant difference was noted in terms of age, gender, and length of stay between the patients who were hospitalized in either location. In almost all cases, diagnosis changed during hospitalization. Three patients died during the study, all included in the in-hospital group. No safety breaching events happened in the nursing home-hospitalization group.

Conclusions

Remote, telemedicine-based hospitalization of nursing home-dwelling elderlies is safe and feasible, potentially reducing the length of in-hospital stay by almost 50%. Larger studies in this realm are warranted.
The association of Serratus Anterior Plane blocks with postoperative opioid use and analgesia following simple lumpectomy: a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Alexander Brenton , Mehdipour Soraya , Lee Seung Woo , Said Engy T. , Gabriel Rodney A.
Published: September 2022

Background

The potential benefit of regional interventions for simple lumpectomy breast cancer surgeries has not been well investigated. Understanding which patients to not offer a regional intervention to can be just as important as knowing which would benefit. It is unclear whether fascial plane blocks, such as serratus anterior plane (SAP) block, should be routinely performed for less extensive breast surgeries. Therefore, our goal in this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate the association of integrating SAP blocks into a standard perioperative multimodal analgesia plan in patients undergoing simple lumpectomies (without node biopsies) with perioperative opioid consumption. As secondary outcomes, we also analyzed postoperative pain scores and post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) length of stay.

Methods

This was a single institution retrospective cohort study (surgical site infiltration only versus SAP block cohorts) assessing the association of SAP blocks to our outcomes of interest. In the adjusted analysis, we created matched cohorts using 1:1 (surgical site infiltration only: SAP block) propensity-score matching using nearest neighbor-matching without replacement. To compare the primary and secondary outcomes in the matched cohorts, we used the Wilcoxon signed rank test. A P-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

There were 419 patients included in the analysis, in which 116 (27.7%) received a SAP block preoperatively in addition to our standard perioperative analgesia plan. In an unadjusted analysis, no differences were seen in perioperative opioid consumption, PACU pain scores, and PACU length of stay. Among the matched cohorts, the median [quartile] perioperative opioid consumption in the surgical site infiltration only versus SAP block cohorts were 10 mg [10, 13.25 mg] and 10 mg [7, 15 mg], respectively (P = 0.16). No differences were seen in the other outcomes.

Conclusions

In this study, we evaluated the impact of SAP blocks on patients undergoing simple lumpectomies, which are relatively less involved breast surgeries. We concluded that routine use of preoperative regional anesthesia is not beneficial for these specific patients. Future studies should focus on identifying patients that would directly benefit from regional interventions.
Does altitude increase the risk of traumatic aortic injuries? A retrospective cohort study among six level I trauma centers in the United States
Authors: Jarvis Stephanie , Rudersdorf Patrick , Poling James , Hennig Andreas , Salottolo Kristin , Bouchard Travis , Tanner Allen , Erickson Wendy , Bhuller Sidra , Ouderkirk Logan , Simpson Jeffrey , Banton Kaysie , Kim Elizabeth , Bar-Or David
Published: September 2022

Background

Traumatic aortic injuries (TAIs) are rare but are associated with a high mortality. Prior studies have shown skiers and pilots, whose injuries occur at high altitudes, are at an increased risk for a TAI. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of altitude on the incidence of TAIs across all causes of injury.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study at six Level I trauma centers (8/1/2016–1/1/2020) included adult blunt trauma patients with a chest or abdomen injury. High altitude injuries (> 5000 ft.) were compared to low altitude injuries (≤ 5000 ft.). The primary outcome was incidence of TAI.

Results

There were 8562 patients, 37% were at high altitude and 63% at low altitude. High altitude patients were older (p < 0.01), more often Caucasian (p < 0.01) and had a higher ISS (p < 0.01). There was a significantly greater incidence of TAI at high altitude than low altitude (1.5% vs. 1.1%, p = 0.01). The median altitude was significantly higher for patients with a TAI than for patients without a TAI (5100 ft. vs. 1400 ft., p = 0.01). After adjustment, high altitude patients had 2-fold [OR: 2.4 (1.6, 3.7)] greater odds of having a TAI than low altitude patients.

Conclusion

TAIs were more prevalent among high altitude injuries. Providers should be aware of the increased incidence of TAIs at high altitudes particularly when there is a delay in diagnosis and transfer to a trauma center with appropriate resources to manage these critical injuries. TAI screening at high altitude trauma centers may improve survival rates.
Non-syndromic bile duct paucity and non-IgE cow’s milk allergy: a case report of challenging nutritional management and maltodextrin intolerance
Authors: Degrassi Irene , Pascuzzi Martina Chiara , D’Auria Enza , Fiori Laura , Dilillo Dario , Lista Gianluca , Castoldi Francesca Maria , Cavigioli Francesco , Bosetti Alessandra , Pellegrinelli Alessandro , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo , Verduci Elvira
Published: September 2022

Background

Cholestasis in extremely premature infants (EPI) constitutes a nutritional challenge and maltodextrins have been reported as a possible strategy for hypoglycaemia. We aim to describe the nutritional management of an EPI with non-syndromic bile duct paucity (NSBDP) and feeding intolerance.

Case presentation

A patient, born at 27 weeks of gestational age, presented cholestatic jaundice at 20 days of life with a clinical picture of NSBDP. Patient’s growth was insufficient with formula rich in medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) and branched-chain amino acids (BCAA). Due to frequent fasting hypoglicemic episodes, maltodextrins supplements were provided. He subsequently presented severe abdominal distension and painful crises, which required hospital admission and withdrawal of maltodextrins. Hypercaloric extensively hydrolysed formula provided weight gain, glycemic control, and parallel improvement in cholestasis.

Conclusions

Our case suggests caution with the use of maltodextrins in infants, especially if premature. Commercial preparations for hepatopatic patients contain higher concentrations of MCTs and BCAAs, but personalized strategies must be tailored to each patient.
The incidence of congenital anomalies in newborns before and during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Heidarzadeh Mohammad , Taheri Mahshid , Mazaheripour Zohreh , Abbasi-Khameneh Fariba
Published: September 2022

Background

Pregnant women are one of the most vulnerable groups in the Covid-19 pandemic. Due to the lack of knowledge about fetal and perinatal complications following Covid-19 infection, the association of Covid-19 pandemic and congenital anomalies in babies conceived and born during this pandemic is unclear. Current study aimed to investigate the association between the Covid-19 pandemic and congenital birth anomalies in Iran. The population of newborns whose embryonic period coincided with the Covid-19 crises were compared with a similar group born during the pre-Covid-19 period.

Methods

This is a retrospective comparative analysis of congenital birth anomalies in Iran; desired data was extracted from national birth registry database. All registered congenital anomalies in hospital births were compared between two time periods: During Covid-19 (1st November 2020- 28th February 2021) and Before Covid-19 (1st November 2019-29th February 2020). Incidence of congenital anomalies at birth were compared and analyzed between these two time periods.

Results

The incidence of congenital birth anomalies are significantly increased during Covid-19 pandemic compared with before Covid-19 (P value < 0.00001). The number of all types of anomalies has increased in the current pandemic, but the congenital anomalies of the central nervous system (P value = 0.04) and Genitourinary (P value = 0.03) have a larger contribution than before.

Conclusion

Covid-19 pandemic are associated with congenital anomalies at birth. There are several factors in the Covid-19 pandemic which can affect fetal development in the first trimester of pregnancy. Possible reasons include vertical transmission of Covid-19 infection; maternal fever, stress and anxiety; insufficient preconception and prenatal care; neglect of fetal screening; and poverty imposed by this pandemic.
Auroral responses to the visit of comet 73P/Schwassmann–Wachmann 3 in 2006
Authors: Zhao Yong , Yan Limei , Yao Zhonghua , Wei Yong , Guo Ruilong , Lai Hairong , Zhang Binzheng
Published: September 2022

The stunning tails of comets are interesting astronomical phenomena to human beings and have been noticed for thousands of years. The bright tails also emit substantial materials into interplanetary space, including dusts and charged particles. The charged particles are picked up by solar wind magnetic fields, and thus could propagate together with solar wind to influence planetary space environments. Simultaneous measurements of comet materials, planetary space, and ground environments are crucial for understanding cometary impacts to planets, while such observations are quite rare. In this article, we present a full chain from the comet tail, to the solar wind cometary particles, and the impacts on the ground. Intense auroral events are observed when the cometary materials are observed in the Earthʼs upstream solar wind. Our results provide direct evidence that cometary ions could contribute substantial dynamic pressure in driving geomagnetic activities and the associated auroral intensifications.
Undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of the liver occurring in an adolescent: a case report with genomic analysis
Authors: Shimagaki Tomonari , Sugimachi Keishi , Mano Yohei , Onishi Emi , Tanaka Yuki , Sugimoto Rie , Taguchi Kenichi , Morita Masaru , Toh Yasushi
Published: September 2022

Background

Undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of the liver (UESL) is a rare malignant mesenchymal tumor that usually occurs in children and is rarely diagnosed in adults.

Case presentation

The case was a female in her late 20s who presented with a huge liver mass found upon the examination of fever. Imaging analysis showed a well-defined mass measuring 9 cm in the largest dimension in the right posterior segment of the liver. The patient underwent right hemi-hepatectomy. Histopathological studies revealed that the circumscribed tumor was composed of a proliferation of atypical epithelioid to spindle-shaped cells with pleomorphic nuclei arranged in haphazard pattern. Histopathological features observed in immunohistochemical analyses confirmed a final diagnosis of UESL. Genome analysis using FoundationOne CDx revealed 11 somatic mutations including TP53 (R196*) and STK11 (F354L). Adjuvant chemotherapy with ifosfamide and etoposide was performed, and the case has been followed up without recurrence for 1 year after hepatectomy.

Conclusions

A UESL should be considered in the differential diagnosis of large and well-defined solid liver lesions. Although the prognosis of UESL is extremely unfavorable, aggressive surgical resection with adjuvant chemotherapy and genomic analysis may be helpful for ensuring long-term survival.
The trend in mean height of Guatemalan women born between 1945 and 1995: a century behind
Authors: Arriaza Astrid , Hambidge K. Michael , Krebs Nancy F. , Garcés Ana , Channon Andrew Amos
Published: September 2022

Background

Adult height is a cumulative indicator of living standards with mean height increasing with a greater socio-economic level. Guatemalan adult women have the lowest mean height worldwide. The country’s population is ethnically divided between indigenous and non-indigenous groups. This study aims to identify trends in the mean height for indigenous and non-indigenous adult women born between 1945 and 1995 in Guatemala and the association with individual, household and environmental factors.

Methods

We used pooled data of adult women from five Demographic and Health Surveys. Mixed-effects multilevel linear regression models estimate the mean height associated with the explanatory variables. Mean height was modelled as a function of birth year cohort, wealth, education, geo-administrative regions and elevation.

Results

The mean height increased 0.021 cm per year on average. The annual increase for indigenous women was 0.027 cm, while 0.017 cm for non-indigenous women. Height is associated with household wealth and women’s education level. We found an interaction effect between ethnicity and household wealth, with indigenous women at the lowest quintile 0.867 cm shorter than the corresponding non-indigenous group. Height is associated with the geo-administrative region, those women in western regions being shorter than those in the metropolis. Mean height is reduced 0.980 cm for each 1000 m increase in elevation.

Conclusions

Guatemalan women have grown only 1 cm over half century, a slow improvement between 1945 and 1995, a period characterised by political instability and civil war. There are persistent inequalities in women’s height associated with socio-economic status, education and attributes of the geographical context. These aspects need to be considered when implementing strategies to encourage growth. Further research is required to understand the evolution of adult height and the standard of living in post-war Guatemala.