1
|
Incidence and clinical features of endometriosis in 2484 consecutive female patients undergoing appendectomy for suspected appendicitis-a retrospective analysis. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2024; 409:144. [PMID: 38684518 PMCID: PMC11059005 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-024-03328-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endometriosis is a common condition affecting 5 to 10% of women of childbearing age. The true incidence of endometriosis of the appendix is currently unknown. Since symptoms often overlap with those of acute appendicitis, endometriosis of the appendix presents a diagnostic challenge in the emergency department. This large retrospective study investigates the incidence and perioperative clinical, radiologic, and laboratory findings, as well as possible differences between patients with and without endometriosis. METHODS Data from consecutive patients who underwent appendectomy for suspected appendicitis without a history of endometriosis were analyzed. Perioperative clinical, laboratory, perioperative, and histopathologic findings were compared between women with and without endometriosis. RESULTS Between January 2008 and June 2023, 2484 consecutive patients without a history of endometriosis underwent urgent appendectomy for suspected appendicitis. Endometriosis was detected on histopathologic examination in 17 (0.7%) patients. Signs of appendicitis were found less frequently on ultrasound in the endometriosis group compared to the non-endometriosis group (23.4% vs. 61.5%; p = 0.002; OR = 0.193; 95% CI 0.063-0.593). There were no differences in physical examination findings, duration of symptoms, degree of inflammation, surgical outcomes, or complication rates. CONCLUSION The incidence of endometriosis of the appendix in patients undergoing appendectomy for suspected appendicitis was higher than suggested by data from autopsy series and populations with biopsy-proven endometriosis. Patients with endometriosis of the appendix were less likely to have a positive ultrasound finding, but perioperative and histopathologic findings and severity of inflammation did not differ from patients without endometriosis, presenting diagnostic challenges for clinicians.
Collapse
|
2
|
Analysis of the Bile Acid Composition in a Fibroblast Growth Factor 19-Expressing Liver-Humanized Mouse Model and Its Use for CYP3A4-Mediated Drug-Drug Interaction Studies. Drug Metab Dispos 2023; 51:1391-1402. [PMID: 37524541 DOI: 10.1124/dmd.123.001398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous biomedical applications have been described for liver-humanized mouse models, such as in drug metabolism or drug-drug interaction (DDI) studies. However, the strong enlargement of the bile acid (BA) pool due to lack of recognition of murine intestine-derived fibroblast growth factor-15 by human hepatocytes and a resulting upregulation in the rate-controlling enzyme for BA synthesis, cytochrome P450 (CYP) 7A1, may pose a challenge in interpreting the results obtained from such mice. To address this challenge, the human fibroblast growth factor-19 (FGF19) gene was inserted into the Fah-/- , Rag2-/- , Il2rg-/- NOD (FRGN) mouse model, allowing repopulation with human hepatocytes capable of responding to FGF19. While a decrease in CYP7A1 expression in human hepatocytes from humanized FRGN19 mice (huFRGN19) and a concomitant reduction in BA production was previously shown, a detailed analysis of the BA pool in these animals has not been elucidated. Furthermore, there are sparse data on the use of this model to assess potential clinical DDI. In the present work, the change in BA composition in huFRGN19 compared with huFRGN control animals was systematically evaluated, and the ability of the model to recapitulate a clinically described CYP3A4-mediated DDI was assessed. In addition to a massive reduction in the total amount of BA, FGF19 expression in huFRGN19 mice resulted in significant changes in the profile of various primary, secondary, and sulfated BAs in serum and feces. Moreover, as observed clinically, administration of the pregnane X receptor agonist rifampicin reduced the oral exposure of the CYP3A4 substrate triazolam. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Transgenic expression of FGF19 normalizes the unphysiologically high level of bile acids in a chimeric liver-humanized mouse model and leads to massive changes in bile acid composition. These adaptations could overcome one of the potential impediments in the use of these mouse models for drug-drug interaction studies.
Collapse
|
3
|
Effectiveness, safety and quality-of-life effects of guselkumab and ustekinumab in patients with psoriasis: Week 104 results from the non-interventional, prospective, German multicentre PERSIST study. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2023. [PMID: 37462295 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.19296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND PERSIST was a prospective, non-interventional, real-world study of guselkumab and ustekinumab in adult patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in Germany. OBJECTIVES To examine effectiveness, safety and quality-of-life (QoL) outcomes to Week (W) 104 of treatment with guselkumab and ustekinumab in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. METHODS Patients (≥18 years of age) received guselkumab or ustekinumab as per routine clinical practice. Outcomes to W104 were examined separately in guselkumab and ustekinumab recipients. An ad hoc exploratory analysis of outcomes with guselkumab versus ustekinumab was also performed following propensity score matching. RESULTS Overall, 302 and 313 patients received guselkumab and ustekinumab, respectively. Patients in both cohorts experienced improvements in disease activity and QoL that were maintained to W104, with 64.7% and 63.6% of guselkumab- and 54.6% and 64.4% of ustekinumab-treated patients achieving a Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 90 response and a Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) 0/1 score, respectively. Propensity score matching yielded well-balanced baseline characteristics except for prior biologic use, which was higher in guselkumab versus ustekinumab recipients (51.7% vs. 32.0%). Achievement of PASI ≤1 at W104 was more common in guselkumab versus ustekinumab recipients (58.7% vs. 49.7%). The W104 PASI90 response rate was 65.6% with guselkumab and 56.0% with ustekinumab; corresponding rates for PASI100 were 44.3% and 28.5%. In guselkumab recipients, response rates were higher in biologic-naïve versus biologic-experienced patients (PASI90, 77.1% vs. 53.4%; PASI100, 55.0% vs. 33.0%). A high level of response for QoL outcomes was observed for both treatments. CONCLUSIONS Ustekinumab and guselkumab led to improvements in physician-assessed and patient-reported outcomes that were sustained for up to 2 years, with no new safety signals identified. Following propensity score matching, greater improvements in PASI outcomes were observed with guselkumab versus ustekinumab. Improvements with guselkumab were highest in biologic-naïve patients, highlighting the value of early treatment.
Collapse
|
4
|
Genetic association between the APOE ε4 allele, toxicant exposures and Gulf war illness diagnosis. Environ Health 2023; 22:51. [PMID: 37415220 PMCID: PMC10324249 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-023-01002-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Exposure to nerve agents, pyridostigmine bromide (PB), pesticides, and oil-well fires during the 1991 Gulf War (GW) are major contributors to the etiology of Gulf War Illness (GWI). Since the apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 allele is associated with the risk of cognitive decline with age, particularly in the presence of environmental exposures, and cognitive impairment is one of the most common symptoms experienced by veterans with GWI, we examined whether the ε4 allele was associated with GWI. METHODS Using a case-control design, we obtained data on APOE genotypes, demographics, and self-reported GW exposures and symptoms that were deposited in the Boston Biorepository and Integrative Network (BBRAIN) for veterans diagnosed with GWI (n = 220) and healthy GW control veterans (n = 131). Diagnosis of GWI was performed using the Kansas and/or Center for Disease Control (CDC) criteria. RESULTS Age- and sex-adjusted analyses showed a significantly higher odds ratio for meeting the GWI case criteria in the presence of the ε4 allele (Odds ratio [OR] = 1.84, 95% confidence interval [CI = 1.07-3.15], p ≤ 0.05) and with two copies of the ε4 allele (OR = 1.99, 95% CI [1.23-3.21], p ≤ 0.01). Combined exposure to pesticides and PB pills (OR = 4.10 [2.12-7.91], p ≤ 0.05) as well as chemical alarms and PB pills (OR = 3.30 [1.56-6.97] p ≤ 0.05) during the war were also associated with a higher odds ratio for meeting GWI case criteria. There was also an interaction between the ε4 allele and exposure to oil well fires (OR = 2.46, 95% CI [1.07-5.62], p ≤ 0.05) among those who met the GWI case criteria. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that the presence of the ε4 allele was associated with meeting the GWI case criteria. Gulf War veterans who reported exposure to oil well fires and have an ε4 allele were more likely to meet GWI case criteria. Long-term surveillance of veterans with GWI, particularly those with oil well fire exposure, is required to better assess the future risk of cognitive decline among this vulnerable population.
Collapse
|
5
|
Quantifying and Predicting Ongoing Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Transmission Dynamics in Switzerland Using a Distance-Based Clustering Approach. J Infect Dis 2023; 227:554-564. [PMID: 36433831 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiac457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite effective prevention approaches, ongoing human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) transmission remains a public health concern indicating a need for identifying its drivers. METHODS We combined a network-based clustering method using evolutionary distances between viral sequences with statistical learning approaches to investigate the dynamics of HIV transmission in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study and to predict the drivers of ongoing transmission. RESULTS We found that only a minority of clusters and patients acquired links to new infections between 2007 and 2020. While the growth of clusters and the probability of individual patients acquiring new links in the transmission network was associated with epidemiological, behavioral, and virological predictors, the strength of these associations decreased substantially when adjusting for network characteristics. Thus, these network characteristics can capture major heterogeneities beyond classical epidemiological parameters. When modeling the probability of a newly diagnosed patient being linked with future infections, we found that the best predictive performance (median area under the curve receiver operating characteristic AUCROC = 0.77) was achieved by models including characteristics of the network as predictors and that models excluding them performed substantially worse (median AUCROC = 0.54). CONCLUSIONS These results highlight the utility of molecular epidemiology-based network approaches for analyzing and predicting ongoing HIV transmission dynamics. This approach may serve for real-time prospective assessment of HIV transmission.
Collapse
|
6
|
Formation of robust bound states of interacting microwave photons. Nature 2022; 612:240-245. [PMID: 36477133 PMCID: PMC9729104 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05348-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Systems of correlated particles appear in many fields of modern science and represent some of the most intractable computational problems in nature. The computational challenge in these systems arises when interactions become comparable to other energy scales, which makes the state of each particle depend on all other particles1. The lack of general solutions for the three-body problem and acceptable theory for strongly correlated electrons shows that our understanding of correlated systems fades when the particle number or the interaction strength increases. One of the hallmarks of interacting systems is the formation of multiparticle bound states2-9. Here we develop a high-fidelity parameterizable fSim gate and implement the periodic quantum circuit of the spin-½ XXZ model in a ring of 24 superconducting qubits. We study the propagation of these excitations and observe their bound nature for up to five photons. We devise a phase-sensitive method for constructing the few-body spectrum of the bound states and extract their pseudo-charge by introducing a synthetic flux. By introducing interactions between the ring and additional qubits, we observe an unexpected resilience of the bound states to integrability breaking. This finding goes against the idea that bound states in non-integrable systems are unstable when their energies overlap with the continuum spectrum. Our work provides experimental evidence for bound states of interacting photons and discovers their stability beyond the integrability limit.
Collapse
|
7
|
Resectability of bilobar liver tumours after simultaneous portal and hepatic vein embolization versus portal vein embolization alone: meta-analysis. BJS Open 2022; 6:6844022. [PMID: 36437731 PMCID: PMC9702575 DOI: 10.1093/bjsopen/zrac141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many patients with bi-lobar liver tumours are not eligible for liver resection due to an insufficient future liver remnant (FLR). To reduce the risk of posthepatectomy liver failure and the primary cause of death, regenerative procedures intent to increase the FLR before surgery. The aim of this systematic review is to provide an overview of the available literature and outcomes on the effectiveness of simultaneous portal and hepatic vein embolization (PVE/HVE) versus portal vein embolization (PVE) alone. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase up to September 2022. The primary outcome was resectability and the secondary outcome was the FLR volume increase. RESULTS Eight studies comparing PVE/HVE with PVE and six retrospective PVE/HVE case series were included. Pooled resectability within the comparative studies was 75 per cent in the PVE group (n = 252) versus 87 per cent in the PVE/HVE group (n = 166, OR 1.92 (95% c.i., 1.13-3.25)) favouring PVE/HVE (P = 0.015). After PVE, FLR hypertrophy between 12 per cent and 48 per cent (after a median of 21-30 days) was observed, whereas growth between 36 per cent and 67 per cent was reported after PVE/HVE (after a median of 17-31 days). In the comparative studies, 90-day primary cause of death was similar between groups (2.5 per cent after PVE versus 2.2 per cent after PVE/HVE), but a higher 90-day primary cause of death was reported in single-arm PVE/HVE cohort studies (6.9 per cent, 12 of 175 patients). CONCLUSION Based on moderate/weak evidence, PVE/HVE seems to increase resectability of bi-lobar liver tumours with a comparable safety profile. Additionally, PVE/HVE resulted in faster and more pronounced hypertrophy compared with PVE alone.
Collapse
|
8
|
Triggers of Change in Sexual Behavior Among People With HIV: The Swiss U U Statement and COVID-19 Compared. J Infect Dis 2022; 227:407-411. [PMID: 36408629 PMCID: PMC9891402 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiac459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We assessed changes in sexual behavior among people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) over 20 years. Condom use with stable partners steadily declined from over 90 to 29 since the Swiss U U statement, with similar trajectories between men who have sex with men (MSM) and heterosexuals. Occasional partnership remained higher among MSM compared to heterosexuals even during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) social distancing.
Collapse
|
9
|
Noise-resilient edge modes on a chain of superconducting qubits. Science 2022; 378:785-790. [DOI: 10.1126/science.abq5769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Inherent symmetry of a quantum system may protect its otherwise fragile states. Leveraging such protection requires testing its robustness against uncontrolled environmental interactions. Using 47 superconducting qubits, we implement the one-dimensional kicked Ising model, which exhibits nonlocal Majorana edge modes (MEMs) with
ℤ
2
parity symmetry. We find that any multiqubit Pauli operator overlapping with the MEMs exhibits a uniform late-time decay rate comparable to single-qubit relaxation rates, irrespective of its size or composition. This characteristic allows us to accurately reconstruct the exponentially localized spatial profiles of the MEMs. Furthermore, the MEMs are found to be resilient against certain symmetry-breaking noise owing to a prethermalization mechanism. Our work elucidates the complex interplay between noise and symmetry-protected edge modes in a solid-state environment.
Collapse
|
10
|
Risk Factors and Incidence of Sexually Transmitted Infections in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac592. [PMID: 36504700 PMCID: PMC9728517 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common among people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH), but there are limited data about risk factors and incidence of STIs in large, representative cohort studies. Methods We assessed incidence and risk factors of STIs reported by treating physicians within the Swiss HIV Cohort Study (SHCS). Sexually transmitted infections and demographic, clinical, and behavioral characteristics were prospectively collected at 6-month follow-up visits between October 2017 and November 2019. We used multilevel Poisson regression to assess incidence rate ratios of different STIs. Results Among 10 140 study participants, a total of 1634 STIs in 1029 SHCS participants were reported over 17 766 person-years of follow up (PYFUP). The overall incidence of any reported STI was 91.9 per 1000 PYFU (95% confidence interval [CI], 85.8 -98.5). Among the 1634 STI episodes, there were 573 (35.1%) incident cases of syphilis, 497 gonorrhea (30.4%), and 418 chlamydia (25.6%). Men who have sex with men (MSM) younger than 50 years represented 21% of the study population, but accounted for 61% of reported STIs. Male sex (adjusted incidence rate ratio [aIRR], 2.03; 95% CI, 1.36-3.02), MSM (aIRR, 3.62; 95% CI, 2.88-4.55), age group 18-34 years (aIRR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.51-2.10), history of sexual relationships with occasional partners (aIRR, 6.87; 95% CI, 5.40-8.73), and reporting injecting drug use (aIRR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.91-3.23) were associated with a higher risk of incident STIs. Conclusions Sexually transmitted infections were frequent among PWH and varied considerably between age and risk groups. Screening programs and recommendations for STI testing need to be adapted according to risk factors and demographic characteristics.
Collapse
|
11
|
Clinical evaluation of deep learning and atlas-based auto-segmentation for critical organs at risk in radiation therapy. J Med Radiat Sci 2022; 70 Suppl 2:15-25. [PMID: 36148621 PMCID: PMC10122925 DOI: 10.1002/jmrs.618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Contouring organs at risk (OARs) is a time-intensive task that is a critical part of radiation therapy. Atlas-based automatic segmentation has shown some success at reducing this time burden on practitioners; however, this method often requires significant manual editing to reach a clinically accurate standard. Deep learning (DL) auto-segmentation has recently emerged as a promising solution. This study compares the accuracy of DL and atlas-based auto-segmentation in relation to clinical 'gold standard' reference contours. METHODS Ninety CT datasets (30 head and neck, 30 thoracic, 30 pelvic) were automatically contoured using both atlas and DL segmentation techniques. Sixteen critical OARs were then quantitatively measured for accuracy using the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and Hausdorff distance (HD). Qualitative analysis was performed to visually classify the accuracy of each structure into one of four explicitly defined categories. Additionally, the time to edit atlas and DL contours to a clinically acceptable level was recorded for a subset of 9 OARs. RESULTS Of the 16 OARs analysed, DL delivered statistically significant improvements over atlas segmentation in 13 OARs measured with DSC, 12 OARs measured with HD, and 12 OARs measured qualitatively. The mean editing time for the subset of DL contours was 50%, 23% and 61% faster (all P < 0.05) than that of atlas segmentation for the head and neck, thorax, and pelvis respectively. CONCLUSIONS Deep learning segmentation comprehensively outperformed atlas-based contouring for the majority of evaluated OARs. Improvements were observed in geometric accuracy and visual acceptability, while editing time was reduced leading to increased workflow efficiency.
Collapse
|
12
|
Real-world evidence from the non-interventional, prospective, German multicentre PERSIST study of patients with psoriasis after 1 year of treatment with guselkumab. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2022; 36:1568-1577. [PMID: 35569014 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.18218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND PERSIST was a prospective, non-interventional, long-term, German multicentre study of patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis receiving guselkumab, an approved monoclonal antibody that binds to the p19 subunit of interleukin (IL)-23, in a real-world setting. OBJECTIVES Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of guselkumab, and its effect on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), in patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis who have received 52 weeks of treatment. METHODS Patients (≥18 years old) were prescribed guselkumab as per routine clinical practice. End points assessed include Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), Physician's Global Assessment (PGA), target Nail Psoriasis Severity Index (NAPSI), and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). RESULTS Overall, 303 patients were enrolled and treated with guselkumab. Mean disease duration was 21.0 years, and 77.2% and 51.2% of patients had received ≥1 prior conventional systemic or ≥1 prior biologic therapy, respectively. Mean PASI score decreased from 16.4 at baseline to 3.0 by Week (W) 28, and further decreased to 2.4 by W52, while the proportion of patients achieving an absolute PASI score of ≤1 increased from 1.3% at baseline, to 50.8% at W28 and to 58.4% by W52. PASI90 and PASI100 responses also showed marked improvements between W28 and W52, regardless of biologic treatment history. Clearance of psoriatic skin was observed in difficult-to-treat areas, with the percentage of patients achieving a PGA score ≤1 increasing between W28 and W52. Guselkumab improved HRQoL; mean DLQI score decreased from 13.7 at baseline to 2.8 by W28, and further decreased to 2.4 by W52. At W52, 64.6% of patients achieved a DLQI score ≤1. The cumulative probability of drug survival was 92.4% at W52. CONCLUSIONS Guselkumab is efficacious and well tolerated regardless of previous biologic therapies, comorbidities or psoriasis manifestation in difficult-to-treat areas. No new safety signals were observed.
Collapse
|
13
|
Visualizing Reactive Mixing Phenomena with the Novel Imaging UV‐vis Spectroscopy in Asymmetric and Transient Flows. CHEM-ING-TECH 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/cite.202255046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
14
|
CFD‐based compartment modeling approach for continuous polymer reactors by means of the mean‐age theory. CHEM-ING-TECH 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/cite.202255090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
|
15
|
Credibility dilemmas under the Paris agreement: explaining fossil fuel subsidy reform references in INDCs. INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL AGREEMENTS : POLITICS, LAW AND ECONOMICS 2022; 22:735-759. [PMID: 36411748 PMCID: PMC9671985 DOI: 10.1007/s10784-022-09581-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Fossil fuel subsidies are a market distortion commonly identified as an obstacle to decarbonization. Yet due to trenchant political economic risks, reform attempts can be fraught for governments. Despite these concerns, an institutionally and economically diverse group of states included references to fossil fuel subsidy reform (FFSR) in their Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) under the Paris Agreement. What conditions might explain why some states reference politically risky reforms within treaty commitments, while most others would not? We argue that the Article 4 process under the Paris Agreement creates a "credibility dilemma" for states-articulating ambitious emissions reduction targets while also defining national climate plans engenders a need to seek out appropriate policy ideas that can justify overarching goals to international audiences. Insomuch as particular norms are institutionalized and made salient in international politics, a window of opportunity is opened: issue advocates can "activate" norms by demonstrating how related policies can make commitments credible. Using mixed methods, we find support for this argument. We identify contextual factors advancing FFSR in the lead-up to the Paris Agreement, including norm institutionalization in regimes and international organization programs as well as salience-boosting climate diplomacy. Further, we find correspondences between countries targeted by transnational policy advocates and FFSR references in INDCs, building on the momentum in international politics more generally. Though drafting INDCs and NDCs is a government-owned process, the results suggest that understanding their content requires examining international norms alongside domestic circumstances.
Collapse
|
16
|
PO-1328 Prospective assesment of quality of life before, during and after CRT in patients with anal cancer. Radiother Oncol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/s0167-8140(22)03292-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
17
|
Gene Editing/Gene Therapies: A SYNTHETIC CYTOKINE RECEPTOR PLATFORM FOR PRODUCING CYTOTOXIC INNATE LYMPHOCYTES AS “OFF-THE-SHELF” CANCER THERAPEUTICS. Cytotherapy 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/s1465-3249(22)00153-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
18
|
Abstract
Despite enormous national, regional, and global efforts on chemical management, the widespread use of hazardous chemicals continues in many parts of the world even after decades of there being well-known risks to public and/or ecosystem health. This continued supply and use, despite strong evidence of negative impacts, is not unique to chemicals management. In the field of climate change, the concept of "lock-in" has been used to explain the complex interactions among economic, social, technological, and political dynamics that reinforce global reliance on the extraction and use of fossil fuels. Learning from carbon "lock-in" phenomena, this Perspective explores the challenges of chemicals management from the perspective of lock-in through three case studies: paraquat, perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), and asbestos. These case studies illustrate that most current chemicals management frameworks fail to address the concerns arising from this complex interplay by not involving all relevant stakeholder groups that are part of lock-in, from producers to consumers. This results in a relatively narrow consideration (e.g., only demand but not supply) of the effectiveness and consequences of regulations. We submit that to break lock-in and address the global threat of chemical pollution, current approaches to managing hazardous chemicals should be broadened to take a comprehensive approach to understanding and managing factors contributing to lock-in, notably both supply and demand on national and international scales.
Collapse
|
19
|
Aktuelle Ist-Analyse zur Situation des nichttraumatologischen Schockraummanagements in Deutschland. Notf Rett Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10049-020-00827-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung
Einleitung
In Notaufnahmen kommen bundesweit nichttraumatologische kritisch kranke Patienten zur Aufnahme. Zur Struktur, Organisation und Ausstattung des nichttraumatologischen Schockraummanagements ist bisher wenig bekannt. Mittels einer Umfrage sollte daher der Ist-Zustand analysiert werden.
Methodik
Durch die Arbeitsgruppe „Schockraum“ der Deutschen Gesellschaft Interdisziplinäre Notfall- und Akutmedizin (DGINA) wurde mittels E‑Mail den 420 ärztlichen Leiter*Innen des DGINA-Mitgliederregisters eine Onlineumfrage zugesendet. Zwei Wochen nach initialem Anschreiben erfolgte eine Erinnerung. Die Ergebnisse wurden in einer anonymisierten Datenbank extrahiert und ausgewertet.
Ergebnisse
Insgesamt lag die Rücklaufquote mit 131 verwertbaren Antworten bei 31 %. Die Umfrage erfasste Krankenhäuser der Basis- (24 %), erweiterten (39 %) und umfassenden Notfallversorgung (37 %). Korrespondierend zur Versorgungsstufe stiegen die jährlichen Patientenkontakte (21.000 vs. 31.000 vs. 39.000), die Monitorplätze in den Notaufnahmen (9 ± 4 vs. 13 ± 6 vs. 18 ± 10), die Betten der assoziierten Notaufnahmestationen (4 ± 5 vs. 10 ± 17 vs. 13 ± 12), die verfügbaren Schockräume (1 ± 1 vs. 2 ± 1 vs. 3 ± 1) und deren Größe (31 ± 16 vs. 35 ± 9 vs. 38 ± 14 m2) an. Hinsichtlich verschiedener Ausstattungsmerkmale (z. B. Röntgenlafette: 58 vs. 65 vs. 78 %, Computertomographie im Schockraum: 6 vs. 12 vs. 27 %) zeigten sich deutliche Unterschiede in Abhängigkeit von der Versorgungsstufe. Während Kühlungssysteme in 30 % in allen Versorgungsstufen vorgehalten wurden, fanden sich andere Ausstattungsmerkmale (z. B. Videolaryngoskopie: 65 vs. 80 vs. 86 %, Bronchoskopie: 29 vs. 22 vs. 45 %) und spezielle Notfallprozeduren (z. B. REBOA [„resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta“]: 3 vs. 5 vs. 12 %, ACCD [„automated chest compression device“]: 26 vs. 57 vs. 61 %) häufiger in höheren Versorgungsstufen.
Schlussfolgerung
Die vorliegenden Ergebnisse zeigen erstmals den Ist-Zustand der nichttraumatologischen Schockraumversorgung in verschiedenen Versorgungsstufen in Deutschland. Empfehlungen zu Ausstattungsmerkmalen für das nichttraumatologische Schockraummanagement müssen zukünftig formuliert werden.
Collapse
|
20
|
Brine residues and organics in the Urvara basin on Ceres. Nat Commun 2022; 13:927. [PMID: 35194036 PMCID: PMC8863799 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28570-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Ceres is a partially differentiated dwarf planet, as confirmed by NASA's Dawn mission. The Urvara basin (diameter ~170 km) is its third-largest impact feature, enabling insights into the cerean crust. Urvara's geology and mineralogy suggest a potential brine layer at the crust-mantle transition. Here we report new findings that help in understanding the structure and composition of the cerean crust. These results were derived by using the highest-resolution Framing Camera images acquired by Dawn at Ceres. Unexpectedly, we found meter-scale concentrated exposures of bright material (salts) along the crater's upper central ridge, which originate from an enormous depth, possibly from a deep-seated brine or salt reservoir. An extended resurfacing modified the southern floor ~100 Myr after crater formation (~250 Myr), long after the dissipation of the impact-generated heat. In this resurfaced area, one floor scarp shows a granular flow pattern of bright material, showing spectra consistent with the presence of organic material, the first such finding on Ceres beyond the vast Ernutet area. Our results strengthen the hypothesis that Ceres is and has been a geologically active world even in recent epochs, with salts and organic-rich material playing a major role in its evolution.
Collapse
|
21
|
Abstract
We discovered a highly virulent variant of subtype-B HIV-1 in the Netherlands. One hundred nine individuals with this variant had a 0.54 to 0.74 log10 increase (i.e., a ~3.5-fold to 5.5-fold increase) in viral load compared with, and exhibited CD4 cell decline twice as fast as, 6604 individuals with other subtype-B strains. Without treatment, advanced HIV-CD4 cell counts below 350 cells per cubic millimeter, with long-term clinical consequences-is expected to be reached, on average, 9 months after diagnosis for individuals in their thirties with this variant. Age, sex, suspected mode of transmission, and place of birth for the aforementioned 109 individuals were typical for HIV-positive people in the Netherlands, which suggests that the increased virulence is attributable to the viral strain. Genetic sequence analysis suggests that this variant arose in the 1990s from de novo mutation, not recombination, with increased transmissibility and an unfamiliar molecular mechanism of virulence.
Collapse
|
22
|
Assessment of drug-drug interactions of CC-90001, a potent and selective inhibitor of c-Jun N-terminal kinase. Xenobiotica 2022; 51:1416-1426. [PMID: 35000550 DOI: 10.1080/00498254.2022.2027553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
CC-90001 is predominantly metabolised via glucuronidation, while oxidative metabolism is a minor pathway in human hepatocytes and liver microsomes. In vitro, CC-90001 glucuronidation was catalysed by UGT1A9, UGT1A4, and UGT1A1, while oxidative metabolism was primarily mediated by CYP3A4/5 with minor contributions from CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2B6, and CYP2D6.CC-90001 in vitro inhibits CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4 ≤ 55% at 100 μM, and the inhibition was negligible at ≤30 μM. CC-90001 is not a time-dependent CYP inhibitor.In human hepatocytes CC-90001 is an inducer of CYP2B6 and CYP3A, with mRNA levels increased 34.4% to 52.8% relative to positive controls.In vitro CC-90001 is a substrate of P-gp, and an inhibitor of P-gp, BCRP, OAT3, OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OCT2, MATE1, and MATE2k with IC50 values of 30.3, 25.8, 17.7, 0.417, 19.9, 0.605, 4.17, and 20 μM, respectively.A clinical study demonstrated that CC-90001 has no or little impact on the exposure of warfarin (CYP2C9), omeprazole (CYP2C19), midazolam (CYP3A) or metformin (OCT2, MATE1/2k). CC-90001 co-administration increases the AUCt and Cmax 176% and 339% for rosuvastatin (BCRP/OATP1B1/3), 116% and 171% for digoxin (P-gp), and 266% and 321% for nintedanib (CYP3A & P-gp), respectively.In conclusion, CC-90001 in unlikely to be a victim or perpetrator of clinically relevant interactions involving CYPs or UGTs. Weak to moderate interactions are expected in clinic with substrates of P-gp and OATP1B1 due to CC-90001 inhibition of these transporters.
Collapse
|
23
|
Influence of counterdiffusion effects on mass transfer coefficients in stirred tank reactors. CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL ADVANCES 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ceja.2021.100180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
|
24
|
[New digital opportunities in ophthalmology]. Ophthalmologe 2021; 118:883-884. [PMID: 34476554 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-021-01458-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
25
|
Metaplastic carcinoma of the breast: Clinicopathological features and treatment outcomes with long-term follow up. Mol Clin Oncol 2021; 15:178. [PMID: 34276997 DOI: 10.3892/mco.2021.2340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Metaplastic breast carcinoma is an uncommon subtype of invasive ductal carcinoma with a tendency towards poorer clinical outcomes. Following ethical approval, the current study reviewed the institutional records of ~2,500 women with breast cancer. A total of 14 cases of metaplastic breast cancer were reviewed for management and treatment outcomes. The results demonstrated that patients had median follow up of 30 months, a 5-year disease-free survival of 57.1% and 5-year overall survival of 57.1%. The majority of patients had at least T2 disease and all tumours were high grade. Additionally, most patients were triple negative and nodal metastases were uncommon. Metaplastic breast cancer is an aggressive variant of invasive breast cancer. Most patients can be treated with breast conservation and survival parameters tend to be worse than more common breast cancer subtypes.
Collapse
|
26
|
Assessing ISUP prostate cancer grade groups in patients treated with definitive dose escalated external beam radiation. Radiother Oncol 2021; 162:91-97. [PMID: 34171454 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2021.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The five grade group system has been validated for men treated with radical prostatectomy. However, the prognostic value for men treated with radiation therapy is uncertain, with prior studies utilising old techniques and doses. We aimed to validate the International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) groupings for men treated with contemporary radiation therapy. METHODS Men with localised prostate cancer treated with image-guided, dose-escalated (≥78 Gy) external beam radiation were identified across four institutions. Primary outcome was time to biochemical failure. Harrell's C index assessed performance of the ISUP system against other grading stratifications. RESULTS 2205 men were included, withmedian follow-up of 5.6 years. Seven-year actuarial rates of biochemical failure for grade groups 1-5 were 9.3%, 10.4%, 13.2%, 12.4% and 23.4%. On multivariate analysis, hazard ratios for biochemical failure were1.19, 1.00, 1.10, 1.05 and 2.10 for grade groups 1-5, relative to 2. P values were only significant for grade group 5. Harrell's C index favoured an alternative three group model (comprising Gleason scores [6 and 3 + 4 = 7] vs [4 + 3 = 7 and 8] vs [9 and 10]) over ISUP grade groups. CONCLUSIONS The ISUP grade groups were not validated in a contemporary cohort treated with dose-escalated, image-guided radiation therapy. Grade groups 1-4 were not statistically different from each other; however, grade group 5 had a significantly worse prognosis. We identified a new three group model that better predicted biochemical outcomes. Further work is requiredto validate optimal groupings for modern radiation therapy and investigate the contrasting prognostic capability of grade groups in surgical and radiation therapy patients.
Collapse
|
27
|
[Acute pancreatitis : Typical findings in computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging]. Radiologe 2021; 61:532-540. [PMID: 34061214 DOI: 10.1007/s00117-021-00854-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
CLINICAL PROBLEM Imaging plays a major role to differentiate interstitial edematous from necrotic pancreatitis and to describe relevant local complications for proper patient management and decision-making in acute pancreatitis. STANDARD RADIOLOGICAL PROCEDURES The revised Atlanta classification 2012 of acute pancreatitis divides patients into mild, moderately severe and severe groups. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are well established for diagnosis and follow-up of acute pancreatitis and its complications METHODOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS AND ASSESSMENT: Based on the revised Atlanta classification, CT and MRI allow for adequate categorization of interstitial edematous and necrotic pancreatitis. Imaging and standardized reporting nomenclature enable confident differentiation of early and late complications in acute pancreatitis. RECOMMENDATIONS The aim of this review article is to present an image-rich overview of different morphologic characteristics of acute pancreatitis and associated local complications by CT or MRI using case examples.
Collapse
|
28
|
Does persistent cholecystitis after cholecystostomy increase mortality? Br J Surg 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znab202.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective
Numerous publications describe percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) as a possible treatment option for acute cholecystitis (AC) in selected cases where laparoscopic or open cholecystectomy (CHE) is not feasible due to limited health conditions. Whereas certain experts propose PC as a definitive therapy option for AC, a number of studies question the use of PC, due to high complication rates, no additional benefit of PC compared to CHE, and an increased mortality. The aim of our study was to retrospectively analyze the outcome of patients treated with PC over an extended period of time.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective study of patients who underwent PC for AC at a tertiary referral hospital during the last 10 years. The collected data included basic demographics, details about PC procedure, outcome, surgical-rate and final histologic diagnosis.
Results
Out of 158 patients (median age 75 years) treated with PC for AC, 47 (30%) died without undergoing subsequent CHE. Half of the PC patients (79) underwent subsequent CHE (8% in the hot phase), with 97% of these patients undergoing subsequent CHE within one year after PC. Seven (5%) of them died within the first year. The overall Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) was 6.4 (CHE vs. no CHE 5.3 vs. 7.4). Histologically, 22 (29%) of the 75 analyzed specimens showed chronic cholecystitis (CC), and 57 patients (68%) had signs of an AC. In 48 patients (30%), a complication after PC occurred.
Conclusion
In our collective, the 1-year survival after PC was 72%. The majority of these patients were in limited health conditions with a mean pre-PC CCI > 5, which implies a potential one-year mortality rate of over 85%. Histologic examination of almost all cholecystectomy specimens showed persistent inflammation. To our knowledge, this is the first extensive report of histologic findings in gallbladder specimens after PC.
Based on our findings, especially in view of the high mortality rate of PC patients, we propose CHE as the treatment of choice in AC, even in chronically ill and elderly patients after stabilization, e.g. with a PC. PC represents no definitive treatment for AC and should remain a short-term solution because of the persistent inflammatory focus. Because CHE in a critically ill patient can be challenging, it should be performed by the most experienced surgeons.
Collapse
|
29
|
Topological Magnetic Materials of the (MnSb 2Te 4)·(Sb 2Te 3) n van der Waals Compounds Family. J Phys Chem Lett 2021; 12:4268-4277. [PMID: 33908787 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.1c00875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Using density functional theory, we propose the (MnSb2Te4)·(Sb2Te3)n family of stoichiometric van der Waals compounds that harbor multiple topologically nontrivial magnetic phases. In the ground state, the first three members of the family (n = 0, 1, 2) are 3D antiferromagnetic topological insulators, while for n ≥ 3 a special phase is formed, in which a nontrivial topological order coexists with a partial magnetic disorder in the system of the decoupled 2D ferromagnets, whose magnetizations point randomly along the third direction. Furthermore, due to a weak interlayer exchange coupling, these materials can be field-driven into the FM Weyl semimetal (n = 0) or FM axion insulator states (n ≥ 1). Finally, in two dimensions, we reveal these systems to show intrinsic quantum anomalous Hall and AFM axion insulator states, as well as quantum Hall state, achieved under external magnetic field. Our results demonstrate that MnSb2Te4 is not topologically trivial as was previously believed that opens possibilities of realization of a wealth of topologically nontrivial states in the (MnSb2Te4)·(Sb2Te3)n family.
Collapse
|
30
|
Novel evaluation method to determine the local mixing time distribution in stirred tank reactors. CHEMICAL ENGINEERING SCIENCE: X 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cesx.2021.100098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
|
31
|
Asymmetry in the propagation of vortex domain wall artificial skyrmion composite system. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS. CONDENSED MATTER : AN INSTITUTE OF PHYSICS JOURNAL 2021; 33:185803. [PMID: 33711837 DOI: 10.1088/1361-648x/abee39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
We studied the propagation of an artificial skyrmion coupled to the vortex domain wall (VDW). We discovered the following effect: depending on the propagation's direction, the dynamics of the coupled skyrmion VDW can be faster than the isolated VDW's velocity. The reason for such behavior is the structural distortion that occurs in the coupled system. We interpret the numerical results in terms of the modified Thiele's equation. In particular, increasing the Thiele's equation counteractive coefficient leads to the perfect fitting with the micromagnetic simulation results.
Collapse
|
32
|
Experimental demonstration of novel beam characterization using a polarizable X-band transverse deflection structure. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3560. [PMID: 33574395 PMCID: PMC7878911 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82687-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The PolariX TDS (Polarizable X-Band Transverse Deflection Structure) is an innovative TDS-design operating in the X-band frequency-range. The design gives full control of the streaking plane, which can be tuned in order to characterize the projections of the beam distribution onto arbitrary transverse axes. This novel feature opens up new opportunities for detailed characterization of the electron beam. In this paper we present first measurements of the Polarix TDS at the FLASHForward beamline at DESY, including three-dimensional reconstruction of the charge-density distribution of the bunch and slice emittance measurements in both transverse directions. The experimental results open the path toward novel and more extensive beam characterization in the direction of multi-dimensional-beam-phase-space reconstruction.
Collapse
|
33
|
A phase 4, randomized, head-to-head trial comparing the efficacy of subcutaneous injections of brodalumab to oral administrations of fumaric acid esters in adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (CHANGE). J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2020; 35:701-711. [PMID: 32939860 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.16932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brodalumab is a fully human monoclonal immunoglobulin IgG2 antibody that binds to the human IL-17 receptor subunit A and by that inhibits the biologic action of IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-17C and IL-17E. Therapy with fumaric acid esters (FAE) is a well established and widely used first-line systemic treatment for subjects with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. OBJECTIVES To compare brodalumab to FAE in terms of clinical efficacy, patient-reported outcomes and safety in subjects with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who were naïve to systemic treatment. METHODS Eligible subjects were randomized 1 : 1 to 210 mg brodalumab injections or oral FAE according to product label in this 24-week, open-label, assessor-blinded, multi-centre, head-to-head phase 4 trial. The primary endpoints were having PASI75 and having sPGA score of 0 or 1 (sPGA 0/1). Subjects with missing values for the primary endpoints were considered non-responders. RESULTS A total of 210 subjects were randomized. 91/105 subjects completed brodalumab treatment and 58/105 subjects completed FAE treatment. At Week 24, significantly more subjects in the brodalumab group compared to the FAE group had PASI75 (81.0% vs. 38.1%, P < 0.001) and sPGA 0/1 (64.8% vs. 20.0%, P < 0.001). In the brodalumab group, the median time to both PASI75 and to PASI90 was significantly shorter than in the FAE group (4.1 weeks vs. 16.4 weeks, and 7.4 weeks vs. 24.4 weeks, respectively, P < 0.0001 for both). The rate of adverse events was lower in subjects treated with brodalumab compared to subjects treated with FAE (616.4 vs. 1195.8 events per 100 exposure years). No new safety signals were detected for brodalumab. CONCLUSIONS Brodalumab was associated with rapid and significant improvements in signs and symptoms of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, with a superior efficacy profile to what was observed with FAE in systemic-naïve subjects over 24 weeks.
Collapse
|
34
|
RADON MEASUREMENTS IN BIG BUILDINGS: PILOT STUDY IN RUSSIA. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2020; 191:214-218. [PMID: 33130857 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncaa150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Detailed analysis of indoor radon concentration distribution by floors was conducted in four children institutions, one office building and two residential houses in Russian cities to develop approaches to draw up a program of radon survey for big buildings. Higher variability of radon concentration was found in high geogenic radon potential (GRP) area when the soil is the main source of radon. No essential dependence of radon concentration on the floor in high-rise buildings was found in low GRP area. The number of required radon measurements is estimated using obtained characteristics of radon variability.
Collapse
|
35
|
911O Performance of dual p16 and HPV testing for determining prognosis in cancer of the oropharynx, the EPIC-OPC Study. Ann Oncol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2020.08.1026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
|
36
|
Synthese des Glykosids 2 (
β
‐Galaktosyl)‐Ethyl Methacrylat mithilfe einer
β
Galaktosidase aus
Pyrococcus woesei
für die Glykopolymersynthese. CHEM-ING-TECH 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/cite.202055245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
|
37
|
La dialyse au-delà de 90 ans. Raison(s) ou déraison ? Nephrol Ther 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nephro.2020.07.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
38
|
SMART Reactors: Intelligente additiv gefertigte strukturierte Einbauten zur Optimierung von Gas/Flüssig‐Reaktionen. CHEM-ING-TECH 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/cite.202055194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
39
|
Influence of glenohumeral joint muscle insertion on moment arms using a finite element model. Comput Methods Biomech Biomed Engin 2020; 23:1117-1126. [PMID: 32643408 DOI: 10.1080/10255842.2020.1789606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Accurate muscle geometry is essential to estimate moment arms in musculoskeletal models. Given the complex interactions between shoulder structures, we hypothesized that finite element (FE) modelling is suitable to obtain physiological muscle trajectory. A FE glenohumeral joint model was developed based on medical imaging. Moment arms were computed and compared to literature and MRI-based estimation. Our FE model produces moment arms consistent with the literature and with MRI data (max 17 mm differences). The inferior and superior fibres of a same muscle can have opposite action; predictions of moment arms are sensitive to muscle insertion (up to 20 mm variation).
Collapse
|
40
|
LB943 Calcipotriol and 5-fluorouracil as neoadjuvant therapy for mohs micrographic surgery in treatment of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. J Invest Dermatol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2020.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
41
|
A critical literature review on the use of bellyboard devices to control small bowel dose for pelvic radiotherapy. Rep Pract Oncol Radiother 2020; 25:598-605. [PMID: 32518531 DOI: 10.1016/j.rpor.2020.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Delivering curative radiotherapy doses for rectal and gynaecological tumours has historically been complicated by the dose tolerance of the small bowel. Acute radiation-induced small bowel toxicity includes side effects such as abdominal pain, nausea and diarrhoea. With the advent of new treatment delivery modalities, such as IMRT (Intensity modulated radiotherapy) and VMAT (Volumetric modulated Arc radiotherapy), there has been an expectation that small bowel doses can be better controlled with the use of these technologies. These capabilities enable the creation of treatment plans that can better avoid critical radiosensitive organs. The purpose of this review is to look beyond advances in linear accelerator technology in seeking improvements to small bowel dose and toxicity. This review examines whether an alternative prone patient positioning approach using a bellyboard device in conjunction with IMRT and VMAT treatment delivery can reduce small bowel doses further than using these technologies with the patient in a traditional supine position.
Collapse
|
42
|
Changes in shoulder muscle geometry at different level of isometric contraction. Comput Methods Biomech Biomed Engin 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/10255842.2020.1714241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
|
43
|
Chemsex drugs on the rise: a longitudinal analysis of the Swiss HIV Cohort Study from 2007 to 2017. HIV Med 2020; 21:228-239. [DOI: 10.1111/hiv.12821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
|
44
|
Changes in Renal Function After Switching From TDF to TAF in HIV-Infected Individuals: A Prospective Cohort Study. J Infect Dis 2020; 222:637-645. [DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractBackgroundReplacing tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) with tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) improves renal tubular markers in HIV-infected individuals but the impact on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) remains unclear.MethodsIn all participants from the Swiss HIV Cohort Study who switched from TDF to TAF-containing antiretroviral regimen or continued TDF, we estimated changes in eGFR and urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) after 18 months using mixed-effect models.ResultsOf 3520 participants (26.6% women, median age 50 years), 2404 (68.5%) switched to TAF. Overall, 1664 (47.3%) had an eGFR <90 mL/min and 1087 (30.9%) an UPCR ≥15 mg/mmol. In patients with baseline eGFR ≥90 mL/min, eGFR decreased with the use of TDF and TAF (−1.7 mL/min). Switching to TAF was associated with increases in eGFR of 1.5 mL/min (95% confidence interval [CI], .5–2.5) if the baseline eGFR was 60–89 mL/min, and 4.1 mL/min (95% CI, 1.6–6.6) if <60 mL/min. In contrast, eGFR decreased by 5.8 mL/min (95% CI, 2.3–9.3) with continued use of TDF in individuals with baseline eGFR <60 mL/min. UPCR decreased after replacing TDF by TAF, independent of baseline eGFR.ConclusionsSwitching from TDF to TAF improves eGFR and proteinuria in patients with renal dysfunction.
Collapse
|
45
|
Response to: Patient-centred medical education: A proposed definition. MEDICAL TEACHER 2020; 42:360-361. [PMID: 31185784 DOI: 10.1080/0142159x.2019.1625315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
|
46
|
Single-Dose Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Tolerability of Avadomide (CC-122) in Subjects With Mild, Moderate, or Severe Renal Impairment. Clin Pharmacol Drug Dev 2019; 9:785-796. [PMID: 31891240 DOI: 10.1002/cpdd.760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
CC-122 (Avadomide) is a nonphthalimide analogue of thalidomide that has multiple pharmacological activities including immune modulation of several immune cell subsets, antigrowth activity, antiproliferative activity, and antiangiogenic activity. CC-122 as monotherapy and in combination with other agents is being evaluated for multiple indications including hematologic malignancies and advanced solid tumors. Given that renal clearance is one of the major routes of elimination for CC-122 and its clearance/exposure could be affected by renal impairment, a total of 50 subjects with various degrees of renal function were enrolled in an open-label, single-dose study to evaluate the impact of renal impairment on CC-122 pharmacokinetic disposition. The study showed that following administration of a single oral dose of 3 mg CC-122, renal impairment reduced both the apparent total plasma clearance and renal clearance of CC-122, but it had less impact on CC-122 absorption, as demonstrated by similar Tmax and Cmax among groups with various degrees of renal function. Compared with exposure in subjects with normal renal function, total plasma exposure to CC-122 increased by ∼20%, ∼50%, and ∼120% in subjects with mild, moderate, and severe renal insufficiency, respectively. Results from this study combined with modeling/simulation suggest that dose adjustments are necessary in patients with moderate or severe but not with mild renal impairment. Finally, a single dose of 3 mg CC-122 was safe and well tolerated by healthy subjects and subjects with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment.
Collapse
|
47
|
Milliwatt-class broadband THz source driven by a 112 W, sub-100 fs thin-disk laser. OPTICS EXPRESS 2019; 27:30340-30349. [PMID: 31684282 DOI: 10.1364/oe.27.030340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate a high repetition-rate, single-cycle THz source with a maximum average power of 1.35 mW, operating at a center frequency of 2 THz. This result was obtained by optical rectification (OR) in GaP using an amplifier-free, nonlinearly compressed modelocked thin-disk oscillator based on Yb:YAG, delivering 8.4 µJ pulses with 88 fs duration at a repetition rate of 13.4 MHz, resulting in driving pulses for OR with 112 W average power and 80 MW peak power. To the best of our knowledge, our result represents the highest average power so far achieved with OR in GaP. The demonstrated performance is very attractive for improving current linear THz time-domain spectroscopy experiments, which are currently restricted by low signal-to-noise ratio and long measurement times.
Collapse
|
48
|
PSMA-PET Guided Dose-Escalated Volumetric Arc Therapy (VMAT) for newly Diagnosed Node Positive Prostate Cancer: Efficacy and Toxicity Outcomes at Two Years. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2019.06.1965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
49
|
Abstract
Acute appendicitis is one of the most common abdominal emergencies. An accurate preoperative diagnosis is still a challenge in many cases. Patient history and clinical examination are the mainstay of diagnostics but other tools are also needed in order to reduce the number of misdiagnoses. Laboratory parameters and radiological imaging procedures are widely used and scoring systems can help in the risk stratification of patients with suspected appendicitis. In the USA most patients undergo preoperative computed tomography (CT) as the first-line examination, which can reduce the number of negative appendectomies to less than 5%; however, this practice results in substantial radiation exposure and is less accepted in Europe due to concerns about radiation-induced cancer in the often younger patients. Ultrasound is a valuable first-line imaging procedure and in experienced hands can achieve very good results. In patients with an equivocal diagnosis inpatient surveillance with close control of clinical and laboratory parameter represents a suitable method to reduce the number of negative explorations without resulting in an increase in the rate of perforation or morbidity.
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract 4733: Human functional brain imaging data support preclinical and clinical evidence that marizomib crosses the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to inhibit proteasome activity in the brain. Cancer Res 2019. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.am2019-4733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Here we summarize key data suggesting, unlike bortezomib, marizomib (MRZ), an irreversible inhibitor of all proteasome subunits, crosses the BBB, supporting its evaluation in brain malignancies.
Methods: Male Swiss Webster mice with microdialysis probes implanted in the cerebellum (CER) and prefrontal cortex (PFC) were administered MRZ (0.3 mg/kg IV, n = 15), amphetamine (1 mg/kg IP, positive control, n = 4), or vehicle (n = 6). Neurotransmitter levels were measured up to 180 minutes post-dose. Brain samples were collected from MRZ-treated mice at 30, 60, 120 (n = 3 each) and 180 (n = 6) minutes post-dose to determine proteasome activity (chymotrypsin-like [CT-L], trypsin-like [T-L], and caspase-like [C-L] subunits). Proteasome activity was assessed in normal human brain (CER and frontal lobe; n = 6) and glioblastoma tumor samples (GBM; n = 30), and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with recurrent GBM (rGBM) prior to and after MRZ administration (MRZ-108 study, NCT02330562). Longitudinal resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of whole-brain volumes was acquired before and after MRZ administration to patients with rGBM (n = 6).
Results: In mice, MRZ significantly increased 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and dopamine levels in the CER and decreased levels of serotonin (CER and PFC), 5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid (CER and PFC), Homovanillic acid (PFC), and DOPAC (PFC). Proteasome activity of all 3 proteasome subunits (CT-L, C-L, T-L) was significantly reduced in mouse CER and PFC after MRZ administration; CT-L activity was most potently inhibited. In humans, similar CT-L and C-L activity levels were observed in GBM tumor tissue compared with normal brain CER, while activity levels were 3- to 4-fold higher in normal brain frontal lobe. In patients with rGBM, CT-L activity in PBMCs was inhibited 80-100% 1 hour post-MRZ, however, activity levels had returned to baseline prior to the next MRZ infusion 7 days later. Resting-state fMRI data showed, after MRZ exposure, hallucination severity was associated with decreased functional connectivity between left lingual gyrus and both left CER (T[4] = −12.78; P < 0.03 FDR) and left temporal cortex (T[4] = −9.56; P < 0.04 FDR).
Conclusions: MRZ demonstrated rapid, yet transient proteasome inhibition in PBMCs. This activity pattern may be related to proteasome turnover and occur in other nucleated cells, such as glioma cells. Lower proteasome activity levels were observed in CER and GBM tumor tissue compared with frontal lobe tissue. Proteasome inhibition and neurotransmitter level alterations in the mouse brain and functional connectivity changes in the human brain suggest that MRZ crosses the BBB and specifically affects the CER. Taken together, these data suggest GBM tumor tissue, like the CER, may be sensitive to MRZ treatment.
Citation Format: Daniela A. Bota, Kaijun Di, David B. Keator, Robert G. Bota, Matthew Hoffmann, C. Dan Dumitru, Nancy Levin. Human functional brain imaging data support preclinical and clinical evidence that marizomib crosses the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to inhibit proteasome activity in the brain [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 4733.
Collapse
|