bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 Infections and Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Multiple Myeloma in New York City: A Cohort Study from Five Academic Centers
Authors: Hultcrantz Malin , Richter Joshua , Rosenbaum Cara A. , Patel Dhwani , Smith Eric L. , Korde Neha , Lu Sydney X. , Mailankody Sham , Shah Urvi A. , Lesokhin Alexander M. , Hassoun Hani , Tan Carlyn , Maura Francesco , Derkach Andriy , Diamond Benjamin , Rossi Adriana , Pearse Roger N. , Madduri Deepu , Chari Ajai , Kaminetzky David , Braunstein Marc J. , Gordillo Christian , Reshef Ran , Taur Ying , Davies Faith E. , Jagannath Sundar , Niesvizky Ruben , Lentzsch Suzanne , Morgan Gareth J. , Landgren Ola 
Published: July 2020

AbstractPatients with multiple myeloma have a compromised immune system, due to both the disease and antimyeloma therapies, and may therefore be particularly susceptible to COVID-19. Here, we report outcomes and risk factors for serious disease in patients with multiple myeloma treated at five large academic centers in New York City in the spring of 2020, during which it was a global epicenter of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Of 100 patients with multiple myeloma (male 58%; median age 68) diagnosed with COVID-19, 75 were admitted; of these, 13 patients (17%) were placed on invasive mechanical ventilation, and 22 patients (29%) expired. Of the 25 nonadmitted patients, 4 were asymptomatic. There was a higher risk of adverse outcome (intensive care unit admission, mechanical ventilation, or death) in Hispanics/Latinos (n = 21), OR = 4.7 (95% confidence interval, 1.3–16.7), and African American Blacks (n = 33), OR = 3.5 (1.1–11.5), as compared with White patients (n = 36). Patients who met the adverse combined endpoint had overall higher levels of inflammatory markers and cytokine activation. None of the other studied risk factors were significantly associated (P &gt; 0.05) with adverse outcome: hypertension (n = 56), OR = 2.2 (0.9–5.4); diabetes (n = 18), OR = 0.9 (0.3–2.9); age &gt;65 years (n = 63), OR = 1.8 (0.7–4.6); high-dose melphalan with autologous stem cell transplant &lt;12 months (n = 7), OR = 0.9 (0.2–5.4); and immunoglobulin G &lt;650 mg/dL (n = 42), OR = 0.9 (0.3–2.2). In this largest cohort to date of patients with multiple myeloma and COVID-19, we found the case fatality rate to be 29% among hospitalized patients and that race/ethnicity was the most significant risk factor for adverse outcome.Significance:Patients with multiple myeloma are immunocompromised, raising the question whether they are at higher risk of severe COVID-19 disease. In this large case series on COVID-19 in patients with multiple myeloma, we report 29% mortality rates among hospitalized patients and identify race/ethnicity as the most significant risk factor for severe outcome.See related video: https://vimeo.com/486246183/559a80cfaeSee related commentary by Munshi and Anderson, p. 218.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 215
Overexpression of Activin Receptor-Like Kinase 1 in Endothelial Cells Suppresses Development of Arteriovenous Malformations in Mouse Models of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia
Authors: Hwan Kim Yong , Vu Phuong-Nhung , Choe Se-woon , Jeon Chang-Jin , Arthur Helen M. , Vary Calvin P.H. , Lee Young Jae , Oh S. Paul 
Published: July 2020

Rationale:

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a genetic disease caused by mutations in
ENG
,
ALK1
, or
SMAD4
. Since proteins from all 3 HHT genes are components of signal transduction of TGF-β (transforming growth factor β) family members, it has been hypothesized that HHT is a disease caused by defects in the ENG-ALK1-SMAD4 linear signaling. However, in vivo evidence supporting this hypothesis is scarce.

Objective:
We tested this hypothesis and investigated the therapeutic effects and potential risks of induced-ALK1 or -ENG overexpression (OE) for HHT.

Methods and Results:

We generated a novel mouse allele (ROSA26
Alk1
) in which HA (human influenza hemagglutinin)-tagged ALK1 and bicistronic eGFP expression are induced by Cre activity. We examined whether ALK1-OE using the ROSA26
Alk1
allele could suppress the development of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in wounded adult skin and developing retinas of
Alk1
- and
Eng
-inducible knockout (iKO) mice. We also used a similar approach to investigate whether ENG-OE could rescue AVMs. Biochemical and immunofluorescence analyses confirmed the Cre-dependent OE of the ALK1-HA transgene. We could not detect any pathological signs in ALK1-OE mice up to 3 months after induction. ALK1-OE prevented the development of retinal AVMs and wound-induced skin AVMs in
Eng
-iKO as well as
Alk1
-iKO mice. ALK1-OE normalized expression of SMAD and NOTCH target genes in ENG-deficient endothelial cells (ECs) and restored the effect of BMP9 (bone morphogenetic protein 9) on suppression of phosphor-AKT levels in these endothelial cells. On the other hand, ENG-OE could not inhibit the AVM development in
Alk1
-iKO models.

Conclusions:
These data support the notion that ENG and ALK1 form a linear signaling pathway for the formation of a proper arteriovenous network during angiogenesis. We suggest that ALK1 OE or activation can be an effective therapeutic strategy for HHT. Further research is required to study whether this therapy could be translated into treatment for humans.
Artistic Heritage of Polymnestus of Colophon
Authors: Almazova Nina 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
Polymnestus (seventh century BC) is represented in Ps.-Plu. De mus. as the second composer of aulodic nomes and processional songs after Clonas. This paper argues that Polymnestus’ nomes bore his name and that he did not compose either the orthian nomes or those ascribed to Clonas. Polymnestus’ music continued to be known in the classical period; he was considered to be working in an innovative, but decent and sublime style. This does not fit well with the assertion of the scholia to Aristophanes, based on Ar. Eq. 1287 and Cratin. fr. 338 K-A, that Polymnestus composed obscene songs. An explanation for this incongruity is proposed: the expressions Πολυµνήστεια ποιεῖν and Πολυµνήστει’ ἀείδειν may be a pun which connected an Athenian named Polymnestus with his great Colophonian namesake. Thus it provides no information about the artistic heritage of Polymnestus of Colophon, but instead proves his fame in the classical period.
Prosecuting Israeli Perpetrators of International Crimes under Universal Jurisdiction Laws: Prospects for Success?
Authors: Karmi-Ayyoub Salma 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
This article will review criminal cases brought under universal jurisdiction (hereinafter “UJ”) laws against Israeli officials1 accused of committing human rights violations against Palestinians. It will describe the challenges to bringing such cases and suggest that political opposition is the main reason there has yet to be such a prosecution. It will propose that UJ remains a viable option for pursuing accountability for Palestinian human rights violations but will suggest ways in which the chance of success for future cases can be improved arguing, in particular, that cases more likely to succeed are those which focus on lower-level perpetrators, in which perpetrators or victims are nationals of forum jurisdictions and that are better integrated into broader advocacy strategies.
The Fragmentation of International Law: Contemporary Debates and Responses
Authors: Shongwe Musa Njabulo 
Published: July 2020

Abstract
The fragmentation of international law is an undeniable issue in contemporary international law, which has received some considerable critical attention this past decade. Regardless of the fact that this is an age-old problem, its recent manifestations have sparked a debate in which two groups of international scholars (positivists and realists) have expressed contesting views on whether fragmentation is a real problem to be solved, or simply a pure academic anxiety about the future of international law. This paper describes why and how fragmentation is a problem of international law, through case law examples of substantive and procedural aspects of fragmentation. The paper then analyses the value of international law mechanisms of dealing with normative conflicts, as well as the shortcomings of those tools. The paper reviews the ongoing debate as to whether fragmentation is a negative or a positive force in the international legal order. The paper contributes to the academic debate by arguing that because of the structural make-up of the international legal system, fragmentation is inevitable, but at the same time, it is a manageable phenomenon. It is argued that fragmentation is a permanent feature of the international legal system, and as such, its relevance to the future of international law must not be undermined. The paper also argues and recommends that the ever-important goal of ensuring unity and coherence of the international legal system should never be lost, and this argument is advanced in view of contemporary academic scholarship that seeks to put the matter of fragmentation to rest.
Evaluation of Minimally Invasive Surgical Therapies for Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Hota Salini , Parascandola Salvatore , Amdur Richard , Obias Vincent 
Published: July 2020

Introduction Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory intestinal disorder that can be managed surgically with a proctocolectomy. Minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery are available based on the surgeon’s preference and familiarity. To date, there is a paucity of literature evaluating the safety of these techniques in comparison to the open approach in patients with UC. Methods We surveyed the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database to select patients with the diagnosis of UC who underwent either robotic, laparoscopic, or open proctocolectomy between 2012 and 2017. A total of 2129 patients were included in the study. The 30-day postoperative outcomes were compared using multivariable logistic regression models after adjusting for confounding variables. The confounding variables were defined as any preoperative variable that was associated with the type of procedure. Results The 30-day postoperative outcomes reported in the NSQIP database were reviewed for each of the treatment groups (open, laparoscopic, and robotic). The anastomotic leak rate was significantly higher in the open group ( P = .022). The robotic and laparoscopic groups had significantly fewer occurrences of postoperative ileus ( P = .0006) and wound infections ( P < .0001). There were significantly more strokes, cardiac events, and pulmonary events in the open surgical group. Operative time was significantly shorter in the open group ( P < .0001). Reintervention rates were not significantly different among the groups. Conclusions Minimally invasive proctocolectomy has significantly fewer postoperative complications compared with open proctocolectomy for UC. There is no significant difference in the postoperative outcomes between robotic-assisted and laparoscopic proctocolectomy.
Modeling the Impact of Recommendations for Primary Care–Based Screening for Latent Tuberculosis Infection in California
Authors: Parriott Andrea , Kahn James G. , Ashki Haleh , Readhead Adam , Barry Pennan M. , Goodell Alex J. , Flood Jennifer , Shete Priya B. 
Published: July 2020

Objective Targeted testing and treatment of persons with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is a critical component of the US tuberculosis (TB) elimination strategy. In January 2016, the California Department of Public Health issued a tool and user guide for TB risk assessment (California tool) and guidance for LTBI testing, and in September 2016, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued recommendations for LTBI testing in primary care settings. We estimated the epidemiologic effect of adherence to both recommendations in California. Methods We used an individual-based Markov micro-simulation model to estimate the number of cases of TB disease expected through 2026 with baseline LTBI strategies compared with implementation of the USPSTF or California tool guidance. We estimated the risk of LTBI by age and country of origin, the probability of being in a targeted population, and the probability of presenting for primary care based on available data. We assumed 100% adherence to testing guidance but imperfect adherence to treatment. Results Implementation of USPSTF and California tool guidance would result in nearly identical numbers of tests administered and cases of TB disease prevented. Perfect adherence to either recommendation would result in approximately 7000 cases of TB disease averted (40% reduction compared with baseline) by 2026. Almost all of this decline would be driven by a reduction in the number of cases among non–US-born persons. Conclusions By focusing on the non–US-born population, adherence to LTBI testing strategies recommended by the USPSTF and the California tool could substantially reduce the burden of TB disease in California in the next decade.
Routine Screening in a California Jail
Authors: Harmon Jennifer L. , Dhaliwal Satvinder K. , Burghardt Nicole O. , Koch-Kumar Stephanie , Walch Jennifer , Dockter Ashley , Kovaleski Laura , Bauer Heidi M. 
Published: July 2020

Objectives California is experiencing a syphilis and congenital syphilis epidemic, and many persons diagnosed with syphilis report a history of recent incarceration or sexual contact with a person who has recently been incarcerated. Fresno County’s local health department and jail collaborated to implement a routine syphilis screening policy for male adults aged 18-30 and female adults aged 18-35 booked into the facility. We evaluated syphilis screening, case finding, and treatment rates after implementation of the new policy. Methods We linked jail census and laboratory data to syphilis surveillance data to assess screening coverage, positivity, and treatment rates for age-eligible persons who were booked into Fresno County Jail from April 1, 2016, through December 31, 2017. Results Of 24 045 age-eligible persons who were booked into the jail during the study period, 5897 (24.5%) were female and 18 148 (75.5%) were male. Of 7144 (29.7%) persons who were screened for syphilis, 611 (8.6%) had a reactive rapid plasma reagin blood test result (16.4% [253 of 1546] of female adults; 6.4% [358 of 5598] of male adults) and 238 (3.3%) were newly diagnosed with syphilis, as confirmed by matching to the surveillance system (6.9% [106 of 1546] of female adults; 2.4% [132 of 5598] of male adults). Of persons identified with syphilis, 51.7% (n = 123 of 238) received adequate recommended treatment (59.4% [63 of 106] of female adults; 45.5% [60 of 132] of male adults). Conclusions The age-based syphilis screening policy adopted in this jail yielded high positivity, including newly identified syphilis infections among female adults of childbearing age. The targeted screening policy was formalized in the county-negotiated contract with the jail’s private correctional health care company in 2018—a strategy that can be replicated.
Opt-out Testing Pilot for Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Immigrant Detainees at 2 Immigration and Customs Enforcement Health Service Corps–Staffed Detention Facilities, 2018
Authors: Lederman Edith , Blackwell Andria , Tomkus Gina , Rios Misty , Stephen Brent , Rivera Ada , Farabaugh Philip 
Published: July 2020

Objectives Correctional settings (prisons, jails, detention facilities) provide a unique opportunity to screen for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among correctional populations with a high prevalence of infection. Immigrant detainees are a distinct and poorly described correctional population. The main objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of a national STI screening program for immigrant detainees. Methods and Materials We developed an opt-out STI testing program that included electronic health record integration, patient education, and staff member training. We piloted this program from June 22 through August 19, 2018, at 2 detention facilities with different operational requirements and detainee demographic characteristics. We assessed STI test positivity rates, treatment outcomes, estimated cost to conduct testing and counseling, and staff member perceptions of program value and challenges to implementation. Results Of 1041 immigrant detainees approached for testing, 526 (50.5%) declined. Of 494 detainees who were tested, 42 (8.5%) tested positive for at least 1 STI; the percentage positivity rates were 6.7% (n = 33) for chlamydia, 0.8% (n = 4) for syphilis, 0.8% (n = 4) for gonorrhea, 0.6% (n = 3) for hepatitis B, and 0.2% (n = 1) for HIV. The estimated cost to detect any STI ranged from $500 to $961; the estimated cost to identify 1 person infected with HIV ranged from $22 497 to $43 244. Forty of 42 persons who tested positive began treatment before release from custody. Medical staff members had positive views of the program but had concerns about workload. Practice Implications STIs are prevalent among immigrant detainees. A routine screening program is feasible if operational aspects are carefully considered and would provide counseling, education, and treatment for this vulnerable population.
Impact of Targeted Local Interventions on Tuberculosis Awareness and Screening Among Persons Experiencing Homelessness During a Large Tuberculosis Outbreak in Atlanta, Georgia, 2015-2016
Authors: Kerr Eleanor M. , Vonnahme Laura A. , Goswami Neela D. 
Published: July 2020

Objectives Tuberculosis (TB) outbreaks disproportionately affect persons experiencing homelessness (PEH) in the United States. During 2014-2016, a resurgent TB outbreak occurred among PEH in Atlanta, Georgia. To control the outbreak, citywide policies and educational interventions were implemented in January 2015. Policy changes standardized and enforced TB screening requirements for PEH in homeless shelters. Educational campaigns informed PEH of the outbreak and encouraged TB screening. We evaluated factors associated with, and the effect policy changes and educational interventions had on, TB screening and awareness among PEH in Atlanta. Methods Questions related to TB screening and awareness of the outbreak were added to an annual US Department of Housing and Urban Development survey of PEH in Atlanta in 2015 (n = 296 respondents) and 2016 (n = 1325 respondents). We analyzed the 2016 survey data to determine characteristics associated with outcomes. Results From 2015 to 2016, reported TB screening increased from 81% to 86%, and awareness of the TB outbreak increased from 68% to 75%. In 2016, sheltered PEH were significantly more likely than unsheltered PEH to report being evaluated for TB in the previous 6 months (prevalence odds ratio [pOR] = 3.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.28-4.47) and to report being aware of the TB outbreak (pOR = 4.00; 95% CI, 2.89-5.55). Conclusions Implementation of required TB screening and educational interventions may reduce the incidence and severity of TB outbreaks among PEH in other communities. Furthermore, the annual survey of PEH offers an opportunity to collect data to better inform practices and policies.
Effectiveness of extracorporeal shock wave therapy versus standard care in the treatment of neck and upper back myofascial pain: a single blinded randomised clinical trial
Authors: Rahbar Mohammad , Samandarian Maryam , Salekzamani Yaghoub , Khamnian Zhila , Dolatkhah Neda 
Published: July 2020

Objectives: To compare the efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy versus standard care (ultrasound + hot pack + self-stretch-exercises) in treatment of neck and upper back myofascial pain syndrome. Design: Single-blind randomised clinical trial Setting: Outpatients setting. Subjects: Patients with neck and upper back myofascial pain Intervention: Participants were randomly allocated into shock wave group ( n = 24), standard care (ultrasound + hot pack + self-stretch-exercises) group ( n = 24) and control (self-stretch-exercises) group ( n = 24) for four weeks. Main Measures: The primary outcomes were pain intensity (visual analogue scale), pain pressure threshold (algometer) and disability (neck disability index). Measures were performed at baseline (week 0), week 1 and post-intervention (week 4). Results: Shock wave and ultrasound improved visual analogue scale (7.50 ± 1.71 to 5.72 ± 2.20 and 6.22 ± 2.54 to 4.95 ± 2.86, respectively, P = 0.083) and disability index (54.24 ± 15.53 to 39.04 ± 19.58 50.23 ± 19.57 to 32.10 ± 18.34, respectively, P = 0.495) similarly at first week examinations that were significantly higher than control ( P < 0.05). In week 4 measurements, additional improvements were achieved concerning visual analogue scale and disability index in the shock wave (–4.00 ± 2.22 and –20.24 ± 16.56, respectively) and ultrasound (–2.18 ± 2.71 and –21.79 ± 10.56, respectively) groups. However, visual analogue scale improved more significantly in shock wave group than ultrasound group in fourth week measurements ( P = 0.012). Conclusion: Extracorporeal shock wave therapy was more effective in controlling of the pain intensity compared to ultrasound one month after treatment. However it had no superiority over ultrasound in improving neck disability index at this time point. Trial registration www.irct.ir , IRCT201608154104N5, registered 2016-09-25
Clinical significance of circPVT1 in patients with non-small cell lung cancer who received cisplatin combined with gemcitabine chemotherapy
Authors: Lu Huasong , Xie Xun , Chen Quanfang , Cai Shuangqi , Liu Si , Bao Chongxi , Luo Jin , Kong Jinliang 
Published: July 2020

Objective: CircPVT1 was identified as a tumor-promoted circRNA that is upregulated in several cancers. We researched clinical significance of circPVT1 in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who received cisplatin combined with gemcitabine chemotherapy. Methods: Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction assays were performed to detect circPVT1 expression in 96 patients with NSCLC. In addition, Kaplan-Meier methods were performed to analyze survival of patients with NSCLC. Results: There is no significant difference between circPVT1 and age, sex, histologic type, lymphatic invasion, or vascular invasion in patients with NSCLC and there is significant difference between circPVT1 and differentiation or p-TNM stage in patients with NSCLC. In addition, after cisplatin combined with gemcitabine chemotherapy, circPVT1 expression was decreased, and circPVT1 expression in the chemotherapy-resistant group was higher than in the chemotherapy-sensitive group. Survival of patients with NSCLC was associated with high circPVT1 expression. Conclusions: Our study revealed the clinical significance of circPVT1 in NSCLC after cisplatin combined with gemcitabine chemotherapy. After treatment, circPVT1 expression was decreased and circPVT1 expression in chemotherapy-resistant patients was higher than in chemotherapy-sensitive patients. Decreased circPVT1 expression in chemotherapy-sensitive patients is more notable than in chemotherapy-resistant patients. Therefore, it is possible to determine the effect of therapy after receiving chemotherapy by detecting the expression of circRNA in serum.