bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Engagement with services in Black African and Caribbean people with psychosis: The role of social networks, illness perceptions, internalized stigma, and perceived discrimination
Authors: Degnan Amy , Berry Katherine , Vaughan Matthew , Crossley Nick , Edge Dawn 
Published: July 2022

AbstractObjectivesResearch and policies in the United Kingdom have repeatedly highlighted the need to reduce ethnic disparities and improve engagement with mental health services among Black African and Caribbean people with psychosis. The aim of this study was to examine the role of social network characteristics and psychological factors in engagement with services in Black people with psychosis.MethodsA cross‐sectional study was conducted with 51 Black African and Caribbean adults with non‐affective psychosis and currently receiving care from mental health services in England. Measures were completed to examine relationships between social networks, illness perceptions, perceived racial or ethnic discrimination in services, internalized stigma, and current engagement with services from service user and staff perspectives.ResultsSocial network composition (ethnic homogeneity) moderately correlated with better service user and staff reported engagement. Greater perceived personal control over problems was associated with better staff reported engagement. Lower perceived ethnic or racial discrimination in services, and specific illness perceptions (higher perceived treatment control, greater self‐identification with psychosis symptoms, more concern and greater emotional response related to problems) were associated with better service user reported engagement. Internalized stigma was not associated with service engagement. Multivariate regression analyses suggested that a more ethnically homogenous social network was the strongest predictor of better service user and staff reported engagement.ConclusionsPsychosocial interventions that target social networks, perceived ethnic and racial discrimination in services, and illness perceptions may facilitate better engagement and improve outcomes. Further longitudinal studies are required to examine causal mechanisms.
Validation of thrombotic risk factors in 1381 patients with essential thrombocythaemia: A multicentre retrospective real‐life study
Authors: Stuckey Ruth , Ianotto Jean‐Christophe , Santoro Marco , Czyż Anna , Perez Encinas Manuel M. , Gómez‐Casares María Teresa , Noya Pereira Maria Soledad , de Nałęcz Anna Kulikowska , Gołos Aleksandra , Lewandowski Krzysztof , Szukalski Łukasz , González‐Martín Jesús M. , Wróbel Tomasz , Sobas Marta Anna 
Published: July 2022

SummaryThrombosis and haemorrhage are frequent in patients with essential thrombocythaemia (ET). The 2016 revised International Prognostic Score for Thrombosis in Essential Thrombocythaemia‐thrombosis (r‐IPSET‐t) score stratifies patients into very‐low‐ (VLR), low‐ (LR), intermediate‐ (IR) and high‐risk (HR) groups. We validated the r‐IPSET‐t in the biggest population of patients with ET (n = 1381) to date and found it to be a better fit than the earlier IPSET‐t score. With an average follow‐up of 87.7 months, there were 0.578 thrombotic events/person‐year and 0.286 bleeding events/person‐year after diagnosis. The 10‐year thrombosis‐free survival was 88% and 99% for the r‐IPSET‐t LR and VLR groups (p < 0.001). Cytoreduction was a thrombotic risk factor in younger patients (aged <60 years, hazard ratio 9.49, p = 0.026; aged ≥60 years, hazard ratio 1.04, p = 0.93). In multivariable Cox regression analysis, anti‐aggregation after diagnosis was protective for thrombosis (hazard ratio 0.31, p = 0.005) but a risk factor for major bleeding (hazard ratio 10.56, p = 0.021). Of the IPSET‐t HR and LR groups, 132/780 and 249/301 were re‐classified as LR and VLR respectively (p < 0.001). The European LeukemiaNET (ELN) does not recommend aspirin for VLR patients but in this real‐life analysis 83.1% of VLR patients received it. Our results validate the r‐IPSET‐t score as more predictive for thrombosis than the ELN‐recommended IPSET‐t and raise concerns about unnecessary cytoreductive and anti‐aggregative therapy.
Anti‐inflammatory effects of cannabidiol against lipopolysaccharides in cardiac sodium channels
Authors: Fouda Mohamed A. , Fathy Mohamed Yasmine , Fernandez Rachel , Ruben Peter C. 
Published: July 2022

BackgroundSepsis, caused by a dysregulated response to infections, can lead to cardiac arrhythmias. However, the mechanisms underlying sepsis‐induced inflammation, and how inflammation provokes cardiac arrhythmias, are not well understood. We hypothesized that cannabidiol (CBD) may ameliorate lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced cardiotoxicity, via Toll‐like receptors (TLR4) and cardiac sodium channels (NaV1.5).Methods and resultsWe incubated human immune cells (THP‐1 macrophages) with LPS for 24 h, then extracted the THP‐1 incubation media. ELISA assays showed that LPS (1 or 5 μg·ml−1), in a concentration‐dependent manner, or MPLA (TLR4 agonist, 5 μg·ml−1) stimulated the THP‐1 cells to release inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α and IL‐6). Prior incubation (4 h) with CBD (5 μM) or C34 (TLR4 antagonist: 5 μg·ml−1) inhibited LPS and MPLA‐induced release of both IL‐6 and TNF‐α. Human‐induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC‐CM) were subsequently incubated for 24 h in the media extracted from THP‐1 cells incubated with LPS, MPLA alone, or in combination with CBD or C34. Voltage‐clamp experiments showed a right shift in the voltage dependence of NaV1.5 activation, steady state fast inactivation (SSFI), increased persistent current and prolonged in silico action potential duration in hiSPC‐CMs incubated in the LPS or MPLA‐THP‐1 media. Co‐incubation with CBD or C34 rescued the biophysical dysfunction caused by LPS and MPLA.ConclusionOur results suggest that CBD may protect against sepsis‐induced inflammation and subsequent arrhythmias through (i) inhibition of the release of inflammatory cytokines, antioxidant and anti‐apoptotic effects and/or (ii) a direct effect on NaV1.5.
Apelin‐mediated deamidation of HMGA1 promotes tumorigenesis by enhancing SREBP1 activity and lipid synthesis
Authors: Zhu Yihan , Yang Ying , Bu Hong , Huang Hong , Chen Hongyu , Ran Jingjing , Qin Liwen , Ni Yinyun , Yao Menglin , Song Tingting , Li Mufeng , Yang Yongfeng , Guo Tingting , Chao Ningning , Liu Zhiqing , Li Weimin , Zhang Li 
Published: July 2022

AbstractEnhanced fatty acid synthesis provides proliferation and survival advantages for tumor cells. Apelin is an adipokine, which serves as a ligand of G protein–coupled receptors that promote tumor growth in malignant cancers. Here, we confirmed that apelin increased sterol regulatory element–binding protein 1 (SREBP1) activity and induced the expression of glutamine amidotransferase for deamidating high‐mobility group A 1 (HMGA1) to promote fatty acid synthesis and proliferation of lung cancer cells. This post‐translational modification stabilized the HMGA1 expression and enhanced the formation of the apelin‐HMGA1‐SREBP1 complex to facilitate SREBP1 activity for lipid metabolism and lung cancer cell growth. We uncovered the pivotal role of apelin‐mediated deamidation of HMGA1 in lipid metabolism and tumorigenesis of lung cancer cells.
Absolute decrease in regulatory T cells and low-dose interleukin-2 therapy: restoring and expanding regulatory T cells to treat systemic sclerosis: a 24-week study
Authors: Yu Zhen , Cheng Hao , Ding Tingting , Liang Yuying , Yan Chenglan , Gao Chong , Wen Hongyan 
Published: July 2022

AbstractBackgroundSystemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by vascular lesions, immunological alterations and tissue fibrosis. There is some evidence of an imbalance between T-cell subsets in this disease. Interleukin (IL)-2 is a cytokine that can regulate the activity of immune cells and there is evidence that low-dose IL-2 therapy can be used to treat immune diseases.AimTo investigate the changes of peripheral lymphocyte subsets, especially T helper (Th)17 and regulatory T (Treg) cells and the effects of low-dose IL-2 therapy in patients with SSc.MethodsIn total, 66 patients with SSc and 49 sex- and age-matched healthy controls (HCs), were enrolled. The absolute numbers of peripheral lymphocyte subsets in these individuals were determined by flow cytometry. The 66 patients, were divided into 2 groups: 23 (the IL-2 group) were treated with low-dose (5.0 × 105 IU) IL-2 by subcutaneous injection daily for 5 days combined with conventional therapy, while the remaining 23 patients received conventional therapy only.ResultsCompared with HCs, the absolute numbers of peripheral T, CD4+ T, CD8+ T, natural killer and Treg cells were significantly lower in patients with SSc, with the most dramatic difference seen in both the absolute number and percentage of Treg cells in these patients, including new (previously untreated) cases, resulting in an imbalance (elevated ratio) between Th17 and Treg cells. At Week 24 after commencement of IL-2 treatment, Treg cells were markedly increased and tended to restore the balance of Th17 to Treg cells compared with baseline. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, modified Rodnan Skin Score and visual analogue scale score were significantly decreased in both the IL-2 and non-IL-2 groups, indicating disease improvement. Notably, compared with those in the non-IL-2 group, patients treated with IL-2 had greater improvement.ConclusionOur study showed that the absolute numbers of peripheral Treg cells together with total T, CD4+ T, CD8+ T and NK is significantly decreased, leading to an imbalance of Th17 to Treg cells in patients with SSc, and that low-dose IL-2 treatment could restore the balance of the two immune cells and reduce disease activity without obvious adverse effects.
Long-term management options for sea urchin injury: a case series
Authors: James Mariel , Bakkour Waseem , Checkley Anna , Calonje Eduardo , Walker Stephen L. 
Published: July 2022

Abstract
In the UK, sea urchin-related injuries (SUIs) most commonly present in returning travellers. Delayed complications mainly affect the skin but nerves, tendons, joints and bones may also be involved. The management of chronic reactions may be challenging and a variety of approaches have been described. Surgical measures are often undertaken, particularly when retained spines are suspected. We demonstrate, through three cases presenting in the UK with chronic SUIs, that conservative management, surgery and intralesional corticosteroids may all be associated with satisfactory outcomes. Management options should consider the presence of retained spines, injury site, symptoms and importantly, patient preference.
Successful treatment of severe pityriasis rubra pilaris with secukinumab in a 3-year-old boy
Authors: Xu Yong-Hui , Dong Dan-Dan , Lin Yu-Feng , Wang Qian , Huang Liang-Mei , Shi Jian-Qiang 
Published: July 2022

AbstractPityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is a rare, scaly, keratotic inflammatory skin disease characterized by red scaly patches, keratosis papules, palmoplantar keratoderma and scaling of the scalp. In severe cases, ectropion of the eyelid may occur, and erythroderma may further develop. Recently, it has been reported that secukinumab, a monoclonal anti-interleukin-17A antibody, has certain efficacy in the treatment of PRP. Herein, we report a 3-year-old Chinese boy with severe Type III (classic juvenile) PRP who was successfully treated with secukinumab alone.
Anogenital dermatology: caseload analysis of new outpatient referrals at a single dermatology centre
Authors: Patel Nikesh , Patel Neil P. 
Published: July 2022

Abstract
Little is known about the volume of outpatient referrals for anogenital dermatoses received by NHS dermatology departments. We undertook a caseload analysis at our centre and found 6.0% of GP referrals to Dermatology were for anogenital dermatoses. This has important implications for training in this field of dermatology as well as for service provision.
Path Guiding with Vertex Triplet Distributions
Authors: Schüßler Vincent , Hanika Johannes , Jung Alisa , Dachsbacher Carsten 
Published: July 2022

AbstractGood importance sampling strategies are decisive for the quality and robustness of photorealistic image synthesis with Monte Carlo integration. Path guiding approaches use transport paths sampled by an existing base sampler to build and refine a guiding distribution. This distribution then guides subsequent paths in regions that are otherwise hard to sample. We observe that all terms in the measurement contribution function sampled during path construction depend on at most three consecutive path vertices. We thus propose to build a 9D guiding distribution over vertex triplets that adapts to the full measurement contribution with a 9D Gaussian mixture model (GMM). For incremental path sampling, we query the model for the last two vertices of a path prefix, resulting in a 3D conditional distribution with which we sample the next vertex along the path. To make this approach scalable, we partition the scene with an octree and learn a local GMM for each leaf separately. In a learning phase, we sample paths using the current guiding distribution and collect triplets of path vertices. We resample these triplets online and keep only a fixed‐size subset in reservoirs. After each progression, we obtain new GMMs from triplet samples by an initial hard clustering followed by expectation maximization. Since we model 3D vertex positions, our guiding distribution naturally extends to participating media. In addition, the symmetry in the GMM allows us to query it for paths constructed by a light tracer. Therefore our method can guide both a path tracer and light tracer from a jointly learned guiding distribution.
Temporally sliced photon primitives for time‐of‐flight rendering
Authors: Liu Yang , Jiao Shaojie , Jarosz Wojciech 
Published: July 2022

AbstractWe derive a class of new Monte Carlo estimators for volumetric time‐of‐flight rendering, generalizing prior work on transient photon points and beams. Conceptually, our method starts with any steady‐state photon primitive – like a photon plane, parallelepiped, or parallelotope – and slices it with a temporal wavefront, producing a primitive of one dimension lower. We show how different unbiased temporally sliced primitives arise by analytically integrating any four dimensions within a novel extended spatio‐temporal path space formulation. The differences between these estimators reduce to the determinant of a 4×4 Jacobian matrix, with columns dictated by the chosen dimensions. We then show how to combine the relative strengths of different sliced primitives using multiple importance sampling. Finally, we implement several of the new estimators enabled by our theory and compare them to each other as well as previous techniques.
Single‐pass stratified importance resampling
Authors: Ciklabakkal Ege , Gruson Adrien , Georgiev Iliyan , Nowrouzezahrai Derek , Hachisuka Toshiya 
Published: July 2022

AbstractResampling is the process of selecting from a set of candidate samples to achieve a distribution (approximately) proportional to a desired target. Recent work has revisited its application to Monte Carlo integration, yielding powerful and practical importance sampling methods. One drawback of existing resampling methods is that they cannot generate stratified samples. We propose two complementary techniques to achieve efficient stratified resampling. We first introduce bidirectional CDF sampling which yields the same result as conventional inverse CDF sampling but in a single pass over the candidates, without needing to store them, similarly to reservoir sampling. We then order the candidates along a space‐filling curve to ensure that stratified CDF sampling of candidate indices yields stratified samples in the integration domain. We showcase our method on various resampling‐based rendering problems.
A bidirectional formulation for Walk on Spheres
Authors: Qi Yang , Seyb Dario , Bitterli Benedikt , Jarosz Wojciech 
Published: July 2022

AbstractNumerically solving partial differential equations (PDEs) is central to many applications in computer graphics and scientific modeling. Conventional methods for solving PDEs often need to discretize the space first, making them less efficient for complex geometry. Unlike conventional methods, the walk on spheres (WoS) algorithm recently introduced to graphics is a grid‐free Monte Carlo method that can provide numerical solutions ofPoisson equations without discretizing space. We draw analogies between WoS and classical rendering algorithms, and find that the WoS algorithm is conceptually equivalent to forward path tracing. Inspired by similar approaches in light transport, we propose a novel WoS reformulation that operates in the reverse direction, starting at source points and estimating the Green's function at “sensor” points. Implementations of this algorithm show improvement over classical WoS in solving Poisson equation with sparse sources. Our approach opens exciting avenues for future algorithms for PDE estimation which, analogous to light transport, connect WoS walks starting from sensors and sources and combine different strategies for robust solution algorithms in all cases.
Physics‐Based Inverse Rendering using Combined Implicit and Explicit Geometries
Authors: Cai G. , Yan K. , Dong Z. , Gkioulekas I. , Zhao S. 
Published: July 2022

AbstractMathematically representing the shape of an object is a key ingredient for solving inverse rendering problems. Explicit representations like meshes are efficient to render in a differentiable fashion but have difficulties handling topology changes. Implicit representations like signed‐distance functions, on the other hand, offer better support of topology changes but are much more difficult to use for physics‐based differentiable rendering. We introduce a new physics‐based inverse rendering pipeline that uses both implicit and explicit representations. Our technique enjoys the benefit of both representations by supporting both topology changes and differentiable rendering of complex effects such as environmental illumination, soft shadows, and interreflection. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our technique using several synthetic and real examples.
Organ donation from patients with a rare disease is often safe: the italian guidelines
Authors: Dallapiccola Bruno , Moriconi Stefano , Rugge Massimo , Cardillo Massimo , Carcassi Carlo , Colledan Michele , Strologo Luca Dello , Vici Carlo Dionisi , Facchin Paola , Gridelli Bruno , La Rocca Valentino , Lombardini Letizia , Mazzucato Monica , Peritore Daniela , Amoroso Antonio 
Published: July 2022

AbstractAlthough a disease is defined as rare when it has a prevalence of less than 1:2000, the overall prevalence of rare diseases in the population is greater than 1%. Among potential organ donors, a similar frequency is observed. To date, guidelines have not been established, and operational decisions have been made empirically, case‐ by‐case, based on the experience and expertise of clinicians. For this reason, the Italian Superior Health Council (CSS) has appointed a working Group to address “patients with a rare disease as potential organ donors,” with the aim of devising recommendations for the management of transplant cases in which the donors have a rare disease. This group evaluated 493 diseases (10% of all rare diseases, including over 95% of patients with a rare disease) to deliver a technical report dealing with the suitability of organ donation and transplantation, with a focus on the organs most frequently used, including kidney, liver, heart, lung, and pancreas. This work has made it clear that a rare disease “per se” does not contraindicate organ donation at all. Indeed, in donors affected by a rare disease, almost 80% of the organs are suitable for transplantation, approximately 7% are unsuitable, and approximately 14% are suitable as non‐standard with an acceptable risk.
Idiopathic upper extremity deep vein thrombosis: A systematic review
Authors: Yuen Hiu Lam Agnes , Tan Ee , Tran Huyen , Chunilal Sanjeev Daya 
Published: July 2022

AbstractBackgroundIdiopathic upper extremity deep vein thrombosis (UEDVT) management is controversial and ranges from anticoagulation alone to the addition of further interventions such as thrombolysis and decompressive surgery.ObjectivesThe objective of this systematic review was to assess the effects of anticoagulation alone compared to anticoagulation with additional interventions such as thrombolysis or decompressive surgery on the incidence of recurrent UEDVT and post‐thrombotic syndrome (PTS) in patients with idiopathic UEDVT (including those associated with the oral contraceptive pill).Patients/MethodsA systematic search was conducted for studies which focused on acute UEDVT treatment defined as therapies starting within 4 weeks of symptom onset. We limited studies to those that recruited 10 or more subjects and involved at least 6 weeks to 12 months anticoagulation alone or together with additional interventions with at least 6‐month follow‐up. Primary outcomes were symptomatic recurrent radiologically confirmed UEDVT and PTS. Secondary outcomes were symptomatic venous thromboembolism, bleeding and mortality.ResultsWe found seven studies which reported recurrent UEDVT rates and five that reported PTS rates. All studies were retrospective or cross‐sectional. None compared anticoagulation alone to anticoagulation with additional intervention. Study heterogeneity precluded meta‐analysis and risk of bias was moderate to serious. Recurrent UEDVT occurred in 0% to 12% post‐anticoagulation alone and 0% to 23% post‐additional interventions. PTS rates varied from 4% to 32% without severe PTS. Only limited studies reported on our secondary outcomes.ConclusionThere is limited evidence behind idiopathic UEDVT management. Prospective comparative studies in this area are essential.