bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biogenesis of serum HBV RNA and clinical phenomena of serum HBV RNA in chronic hepatitis B patients before and after receiving nucleos(t)ide analogues therapy
Authors: Wu Liandong , Yang Zhenggang , Zheng Min
Published: February 2024

There are estimated 300 million people afflicted with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) worldwide. The risk of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) increases considerably with chronic hepatitis B infection. While current therapeutics are effective in controlling hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and disease progression, a cure for HBV infection remains unattainable due to an intranuclear replicative intermediate known as covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). It has recently been shown that serum HBV RNA is a non‐invasive biomarker that reflects cccDNA transcriptional activity. This review provides a comprehensive overview and the latest updates on the molecular characteristics and clinical significance of serum HBV RNA, such as species of serum HBV RNA, forms of serum HBV RNA carriers and predictive value for relapses in CHB patients after nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) discontinuation and development of liver fibrosis and HCC. Furthermore, we summarize standardized assays for testing serum HBV RNA, the dynamic changes of serum HBV RNA levels in treatment‐naïve CHB patients and those under NAs therapy, as well as the host and viral influencing factors of serum HBV RNA levels. Finally, we discuss the future perspectives in studies of serum HBV RNA.
Behaviour change communication to improve complementary feeding practices in Ethiopia: Couples' beliefs concerning paternal involvement in childcare
Authors: Han Yaeeun , Hoddinott John , Kim JiEun , Pelletier David
Published: February 2024

An important cause of stunting is limited consumption of complementary foods, in terms of both quantities and nutrients. Although existing studies show a positive association between fathers' engagement and children's diet, programmes designed to improve complementary feeding practices often only target mothers. In response to this, maternal behaviour change communication (BCC), paternal BCC and food voucher programmes were designed and implemented in Ethiopia using a clustered randomized controlled trial design. The paternal BCC programme included gender‐equal messages to increase fathers' participation in childcare, household labour and decision making. The research reported in this paper is an examination of the BCC programmes, characterizing the behavioural, normative and control beliefs of both mothers and fathers in BCC households compared to those in control households. In this study, a total of 40 participants were included, with 13 mother–father pairs in the BCC + food voucher group, and seven pairs in the control group. Each participant was interviewed separately. We found that BCC mothers showed more gender‐equal tendencies than the control mothers despite being more rural in location. By contrast, the beliefs of BCC and control fathers were similar overall, suggesting men are more resistant to gender‐equal BCC. More work is needed to develop and test effective methods for changing fathers' beliefs and practices.
Renal transplants increase in size and function in keeping with compensatory renal hypertrophy
Authors: Lee Chiang Sheng , Li Jordan Y Z , Juneja Rajiv , Ullah Shahid , van der Jeugd Jane , Gleadle Jonathan M.
Published: February 2024

Aim

To evaluate changes in allograft kidney length in renal transplant recipients and the relationship with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

Methods

This single‐centre retrospective study of renal transplant recipients was conducted at Flinders Medical Centre (FMC) from January 2007 to June 2020. Donor and recipient details, renal allograft length from transplant ultrasounds at 0, 1, 3, 6 and 12 months were collected. The association between compensatory renal hypertrophy (CRH) and eGFR and its magnitude was analysed using multivariate multilevel mixed‐effects linear regression models.

Results

A total of 183 renal transplant recipients were studied. 100 of 175 recipients (62.9%) demonstrated an increase in renal length defined as any increase in maximal longitudinal diameter on serial ultrasounds. Twenty‐three recipients (13.1%) had no change in transplant length and 42 recipients (24%) had a decrease in length. The mean increase in kidney length over the first 12 months was 0.57 cm. Ninety of 156 (57.7%) recipients with a renal ultrasound within a month post‐transplant demonstrated a mean increase kidney length of 0.3 cm. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that eGFR increased by 2.5 mL/min/1.73 m2 (95% CI 0.72– 4.4; p = .006) with every 1 cm increase in kidney length. Absolute changes in kidney length did not demonstrate any statistically significant correlation with eGFR in both complete case and multiple imputation analysis.

Conclusion

An increase in transplant kidney length is common in renal transplant recipients and is associated with enhanced eGFR. However, further studies need to be performed to study the association of absolute change in kidney length and eGFR.
The China–Iran strategic deal and CPEC: Navigating the influence of pragmatic balancing in China's relations with Iran and Pakistan
Authors: Hussain Mehmood , Jamali Ahmed Bux , Nisar Rana Danish , Omar Abdulfattah
Published: February 2024

This article argues that China is advancing its relations with Iran and Pakistan based on pragmatic balancing, a key component of soft balancing, to safeguard and advance national self‐interest. China's relationship with Pakistan is based on shared interests to counter the Indian hegemony in South Asia and end the Chinese energy security dilemma through an overland route of the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The bilateral relationship has enhanced and expanded over the years, despite steep transformations in regional geopolitics. Meanwhile, abundant Iranian energy reserves and Tehran's willingness to support China against the United States in the Middle East encouraged the Chinese leadership to sign a strategic deal with no significant ramifications for Pakistan and CPEC. The fair‐weather friendship between China and Iran remains limited in scope, often suspending cooperation in various domains, including energy and defense. Nonetheless, an all‐weather friendship between China and Pakistan sustained the collaboration of security, economy, and diplomacy, meticulously representing sincerity and cordiality.

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Singh, Amit, and Amit Sarwal. 2017. “Paraspara, Encounters, and Confluences: India's Soft Power Objective in the Indo‐Pacific Region.” Politics & Policy 45(5): 733–61. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12222.

Zaidi, Syed Muhammad Saad. 2020. “American Global Supremacy under Threat? The Chinese Factor.” Politics & Policy 49(2): 502–28. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12402.
Restored off‐channel pond habitats create thermal regime diversity and refuges within a Mediterranean‐climate watershed
Authors: Moravek Jessie A. , Soto Toz , Brashares Justin S. , Ruhí Albert
Published: February 2024

Cool‐water habitats provide increasingly vital refuges for cold‐water fish living on the margins of their historical ranges; consequently, efforts to enhance or create cool‐water habitat are becoming a major focus of river restoration practices. However, the effectiveness of restoration projects for providing thermal refuge and creating diverse temperature regimes at the watershed scale remains unclear. In the Klamath River in northern California, the Karuk Tribe Fisheries Program, the Mid‐Klamath Watershed Council, and the U.S. Forest Service constructed a series of off‐channel ponds that recreate floodplain habitat and support juvenile coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) and steelhead (O. mykiss) along the Klamath River and its tributaries. We instrumented these ponds and applied multivariate autoregressive time series models of fine‐scale temperature data from ponds, tributaries, and the mainstem Klamath River to assess how off‐channel ponds contributed to thermal regime diversity and thermal refuge habitat in the Klamath riverscape. Our analysis demonstrated that ponds provide diverse thermal habitats that are significantly cooler than creek or mainstem river habitats, even during severe drought. Wavelet analysis of long‐term (10 years) temperature data indicated that thermal buffering (i.e. dampening of diel variation) increased over time but was disrupted by drought conditions in 2021. Our analysis demonstrates that in certain situations, human‐made off‐channel ponds can increase thermal diversity in modified riverscapes even during drought conditions, potentially benefiting floodplain‐dependent cold‐water species. Restoration actions that create and maintain thermal regime diversity and thermal refuges will become an essential tool to conserve biodiversity in climate‐sensitive watersheds.
Dyadic, biobehavioral, and sociocultural approaches to romantic relationships and health: Implications for research, practice, and policy
Authors: Shrout M. Rosie , Wilson Stephanie J. , Farrell Allison K. , Rice TeKisha M. , Weiser Dana A. , Novak Joshua R. , Monk J. Kale
Published: February 2024

Romantic relationships are a key health determinant. Partners influence each other's psychological, behavioral, and biological trajectories in ways that can foster health and longevity or fuel disease risk and early mortality. A romantic relationship's health impact is considerable yet has historically garnered limited recognition from government agencies, healthcare providers, and policymakers. World‐wide public health organizations are increasingly attending to the importance of social connection and health and calling for action and intervention to improve social connection. In this review, we identify key areas to act on this call and advance research, practice, and policy on romantic relationships and health: dyadic effects in how partners influence each other's health; the socio‐historical context and systems of social stratification; and couple‐level prevention, intervention, and health‐promotion efforts. We connect these perspectives and offer next steps to further establish romantic relationships as a public health priority and target for policy and programming that foster social connection and health.
Yield reduction caused by elevated temperatures and high nitrogen fertilization is mitigated by SP6A overexpression in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)
Authors: Koch Lisa , Lehretz Günter G. , Sonnewald Uwe , Sonnewald Sophia
Published: February 2024

Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) are a fundamental staple for millions of people worldwide. They provide essential amino acids, vitamins, and starch – a vital component of the human diet, providing energy and serving as a source of fiber. Unfortunately, global warming is posing a severe threat to this crop, leading to significant yield losses, and thereby endangering global food security. Industrial agriculture traditionally relies on excessive nitrogen (N) fertilization to boost yields. However, it remains uncertain whether this is effective in combating heat‐related yield losses of potato. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the combinatory effects of heat stress and N fertilization on potato tuber formation. We demonstrate that N levels and heat significantly impact tuber development. The combination of high N and heat delays tuberization, while N deficiency initiates early tuberization, likely through starvation‐induced signals, independent of SELF‐PRUNING 6A (SP6A), a critical regulator of tuberization. We also found that high N levels in combination with heat reduce tuber yield rather than improve it. However, our study revealed that SP6A overexpression can promote tuberization under these inhibiting conditions. By utilizing the excess of N for accumulating tuber biomass, SP6A overexpressing plants exhibit a shift in biomass distribution towards the tubers. This results in an increased yield compared to wild‐type plants. Our results highlight the role of SP6A overexpression as a viable strategy for ensuring stable potato yields in the face of global warming. As such, our findings provide insights into the complex factors impacting potato crop productivity.
Magnetic resonance and computed tomographic imaging characteristics and potential molecular mechanisms of feline meningioma associated calvarial hyperostosis
Authors: Edwards Michael R. , Garcia Mora Josefa K. , Fowler Kayla M. , Vezza Christina , Robertson John L. , Daniel Gregory B. , Shinn Richard L. , Parker Rell L. , Werre Stephen R. , Rossmeisl John H.
Published: February 2024

Meningiomas are the most common feline primary brain tumours, and calvarial hyperostosis (CH) is frequently documented in association with this neoplastic entity. The clinical significance of and mechanisms driving the formation of CH in cats with meningiomas are poorly understood, although tumour invasion into the skull and tumour production of cytokines and enzymes have been implicated as causes of CH in humans. This retrospective study investigated relationships between signalment, MRI or CT imaging features, histopathologic tumour characteristics, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) isoenzyme concentrations, tumour expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)‐2, MMP‐9, and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and progression free survival times (PFS) following surgical treatment in 27 cats with meningiomas with (n = 15) or without (n = 12) evidence of CH. No significant differences in breed, age, sex, body weight, tumour grade, tumour volume, peritumoral edema burden, ALP isoenzyme concentrations, tumour Ki‐67 labelling indices or MMP‐2 or MMP‐9 expression and activity, or PFS were noted between cats with or without CH. There was a trend towards higher serum (p = .06) and intratumoral (p = .07) concentrations of IL‐6 in cats with CH, but these comparisons were not statistically significant. Histologic evidence of tumour invasion into bone was observed in 5/12 (42%) with CH and in no (0/6) cats without CH, although this was not statistically significant (p = .07). Tumour invasion into bone and tumour production of IL‐6 may contribute to the formation of meningioma associated CH in cats, although larger studies are required to further substantiate these findings and determine their clinical relevance.
Disproportionation chemistry in K
2
PtCl
4
visualized at atomic resolution using scanning transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Smith Jacob G. , Sawant Kaustubh J. , Zeng Zhenhua , Eldred Tim B. , Wu Jianbo , Greeley Jeffrey P. , Gao Wenpei
Published: February 2024

The direct observation of a solid-state chemical reaction can reveal otherwise hidden mechanisms that control the reaction kinetics. However, probing the chemical bond breaking and formation at the molecular level remains challenging because of the insufficient spatial-temporal resolution and composition analysis of available characterization methods. Using atomic-resolution differential phase-contrast imaging in scanning transmission electron microscopy, we have visualized the decomposition chemistry of K
2
PtCl
4
to identify its transient intermediate phases and their interfaces that characterize the chemical reduction process. The crystalline structure of K
2
PtCl
4
is found to undergo a disproportionation reaction to form K
2
PtCl
6
, followed by gradual reduction to crystalline Pt metal and KCl. By directly imaging different Pt─Cl bond configurations and comparing them to models predicted via density functional theory calculations, a causal connection between the initial and final states of a chemical reaction is established, showcasing new opportunities to resolve reaction pathways through atomistic experimental visualization.
Stromal-derived MAOB promotes prostate cancer growth and progression
Authors: Pu Tianjie , Wang Jing , Wei Jing , Zeng Alan , Zhang Jinglong , Chen Jingrui , Yin Lijuan , Li Jingjing , Lin Tzu-Ping , Melamed Jonathan , Corey Eva , Gao Allen C. , Wu Boyang Jason
Published: February 2024

Prostate cancer (PC) develops in a microenvironment where the stromal cells modulate adjacent tumor growth and progression. Here, we demonstrated elevated levels of monoamine oxidase B (MAOB), a mitochondrial enzyme that degrades biogenic and dietary monoamines, in human PC stroma, which was associated with poor clinical outcomes of PC patients. Knockdown or overexpression of MAOB in human prostate stromal fibroblasts indicated that MAOB promotes cocultured PC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and co-inoculated prostate tumor growth in mice. Mechanistically, MAOB induces a reactive stroma with activated marker expression, increased extracellular matrix remodeling, and acquisition of a protumorigenic phenotype through enhanced production of reactive oxygen species. Moreover, MAOB transcriptionally activates CXCL12 through Twist1 synergizing with TGFβ1-dependent Smads in prostate stroma, which stimulates tumor-expressed CXCR4-Src/JNK signaling in a paracrine manner. Pharmacological inhibition of stromal MAOB restricted PC xenograft growth in mice. Collectively, these findings characterize the contribution of MAOB to PC and suggest MAOB as a potential stroma-based therapeutic target.
Mavintramycin A is a promising antibiotic for treating
Mycobacterium avium
complex infectious disease
Authors: Hosoda Kanji , Koyama Nobuhiro , Shigeno Satoru , Nishimura Tomoyasu , Hasegawa Naoki , Kanamoto Akihiko , Ohshiro Taichi , Tomoda Hiroshi
Published: February 2024

Mycobacterium avium
complex (MAC) is a serious disease that is mainly caused by infection with the non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM),
Mycobacterium avium
and
Mycobacterium intracellulare
. Seven new compounds, designated mavintramycins A–G (
1
–
7
), were isolated along with structurally related compounds, including amicetin (
9
) and plicacetin (
10
), from the culture broth of
Streptomyces
sp. OPMA40551 as anti-MAC compounds that were active against
M. avium
and
M. intracellulare
. Among them, mavintramycin A showed the most potent and selective inhibition of
M. avium
and
M. intracellulare
. Furthermore, mavintramycin A was active against more than 40 clinically isolated
M. avium
, including multidrug-resistant strains, and inhibited the growth of
M. avium
in a persistent infection cell model using THP-1 macrophages. Mavintramycin A also exhibited
in vivo
efficacy in silkworm and mouse infection assays with NTM. An experiment to elucidate its mechanism of action revealed that mavintramycin A inhibits protein synthesis by binding to 23S ribosomal RNA in NTM. Mavintramycin A, with a different chemical structure from those of clinically used agents, is a promising drug candidate for the treatment of MAC infectious disease.
Genome sequences of two isolates of the yeast
Candida zeylanoides
: UCD849 from soil in Ireland, and AWD from an African wild dog
Authors: McLaughlin Richard W. , Hession Conor , Bergin Sean , Cosgrove Aoife , Dowd Andrew , Garvey Niall , Litovskich Gabrielle , Osaigbovo Evita , Popa Denis , Thuku Cynthia , Butler Geraldine , Wolfe Kenneth H. , Byrne Kevin P.
Published: February 2024

We report genome sequences of two new isolates of the budding yeast
Candida zeylanoides
. Strain UCD849 from soil in Ireland was assembled into eight complete chromosomes. Strain AWD from an African Wild Dog in a US zoo was sequenced to draft level. The assemblies are 10.6 Mb and 99.57% identical.
The complete genome sequences of
Thioglobus autotrophicus
strains EF2 and EF3, isolated from an oxycline in Effingham Inlet, British Columbia
Authors: Morris Robert M. , Mino Sayaka
Published: February 2024

Here we provide the complete genome sequences of two chemoautotrophic isolates from the
Thioglobaceae
family of marine gamma-proteobacteria. The genomes were obtained from pure cultures that were initially isolated from Effingham Inlet in 2013 and revived from freezer stocks for whole genome sequencing in 2023.
Snowball: a novel gene family required for developmental patterning of fruiting bodies of mushroom-forming fungi (Agaricomycetes)
Authors: Földi Csenge , Merényi Zsolt , Balázs Bálint , Csernetics Árpád , Miklovics Nikolett , Wu Hongli , Hegedüs Botond , Virágh Máté , Hou Zhihao , Liu Xiao-Bin , Galgóczy László , Nagy László G.
Published: February 2024

The morphogenesis of sexual fruiting bodies of fungi is a complex process determined by a genetically encoded program. Fruiting bodies reached the highest complexity levels in the Agaricomycetes; yet, the underlying genetics is currently poorly known. In this work, we functionally characterized a highly conserved gene termed
snb1
, whose expression level increases rapidly during fruiting body initiation. According to phylogenetic analyses, orthologs of
snb1
are present in almost all agaricomycetes and may represent a novel conserved gene family that plays a substantial role in fruiting body development. We disrupted
snb1
using CRISPR/Cas9 in the agaricomycete model organism
Coprinopsis cinerea. snb1
deletion mutants formed unique, snowball-shaped, rudimentary fruiting bodies that could not differentiate caps, stipes, and lamellae. We took advantage of this phenotype to study fruiting body differentiation using RNA-Seq analyses. This revealed differentially regulated genes and gene families that, based on wild-type RNA-Seq data, were upregulated early during development and showed tissue-specific expression, suggesting a potential role in differentiation. Taken together, the novel gene family of
snb1
and the differentially expressed genes in the
snb1
mutants provide valuable insights into the complex mechanisms underlying developmental patterning in the Agaricomycetes.

IMPORTANCE

Fruiting bodies of mushroom-forming fungi (Agaricomycetes) are complex multicellular structures, with a spatially and temporally integrated developmental program that is, however, currently poorly known. In this study, we present a novel, conserved gene family, Snowball (snb), termed after the unique, differentiation-less fruiting body morphology of snb1 knockout strains in the model mushroom Coprinopsis cinerea. snb is a gene of unknown function that is highly conserved among agaricomycetes and encodes a protein of unknown function. A comparative transcriptomic analysis of the early developmental stages of differentiated wild-type and non-differentiated mutant fruiting bodies revealed conserved differentially expressed genes which may be related to tissue differentiation and developmental patterning fruiting body development.
Supplemental Material: Copper and zinc isotopic compositions of methane-derived carbonates: Implications for paleo-methane seepage and paleoenvironmental proxies
Authors: Zhang Ganglan , al. et
Published: February 2024

Table S1: Bulk-rock major and trace element concentrations of the cold seep carbonates and rare earth element concentrations of the authigenic carbonate components. 
Association between lower extremity arterial calcification and coronary arterial calcification in a population at increased risk of cardiovascular disease
Authors: Meer Romain , Hoek Anna G , Bouman Emma J , Doesburg Teddo , Elders Petra J M , de Jong Pim A , Beulens Joline , Study Group UCC-SMART
Published: February 2024

Introduction

There is conflicting evidence whether lower extremity arterial calcification coincides with coronary arterial calcification (CAC). The aims of this study were to investigate the associations between (1) femoral and crural calcification with CAC, and (2) femoral and crural calcification pattern with CAC.

Research design and methods

This cross-sectional study included 405 individuals (74% men, 62.6±10.9 years) from the ARTEMIS cohort study at high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) who underwent a CT scan of the femoral, crural and coronary arteries. High CVD risk was defined as history/presence of cerebrovascular disease, coronary artery disease, abdominal aortic aneurysm, renal artery stenosis, peripheral artery disease or CVD risk factors: diabetes mellitus type 2, hypertension, hyperlipidemia. Calcification score within each arterial bed was expressed in Agatston units. Dominant calcification patterns (intimal, medial, absent/indistinguishable) were determined via a CT-guided histologically validated scoring algorithm. Multivariable-adjusted multinomial logistic regression analyses were used. Replication was performed in an independent population of individuals with diabetes mellitus type 2 (Early-HFpEF cohort study).

Results

Every 100-point increase in femoral and crural calcification score was associated with 1.23 (95% CI=1.09 to 1.37, p<0.001) and 1.28 (95% CI=1.11 to 1.47, p=0.001) times higher odds of having CAC within tertile 3 (high) versus tertile 1 (low), respectively. The association appeared stronger for crural versus femoral arteries. Moreover, the presence of femoral intimal (OR=10.81, 95% CI=4.23 to 27.62, p<0.001), femoral medial (OR=10.37, 95% CI=3.92 to 27.38, p<0.001) and crural intimal (OR=6.70, 95% CI=2.73 to 16.43, p<0.001) calcification patterns were associated with higher odds of having CAC within tertile 3 versus tertile 1, independently from concomitant calcification score. This association appeared stronger for intimal versus medial calcification patterns. The replication analysis yielded similar results.

Conclusions

Higher femoral and crural calcification scores were associated with higher CAC. Moreover, the presence of femoral intimal, femoral medial and crural intimal calcification patterns was associated with increased CAC. It appears that arterial calcification is a systemic process which occurs simultaneously in various arterial beds.
Determining the optimal treatment target in patients with ulcerative colitis: rationale, design, protocol and interim analysis for the randomised controlled VERDICT trial
Authors: Jairath Vipul , Zou Guangyong , Wang Zhongya , Adsul Shashi , Colombel Jean-Frederic , D’Haens Geert R , Freire Marcelo , Moran Gordon W , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Sandborn William J , Sebastian Shaji , Travis Simon , Vermeire Séverine , Radulescu Gabriela , Sigler Julie , Hanžel Jurij , Ma Christopher , Sedano Rocio , McFarlane Stefanie C , Arya Naveen , Beaton Melanie , Bossuyt Peter , Danese Silvio , Green Daniel , Harlan William , Horynski Marek , Klopocka Maria , Petroniene Rima , Silverberg Mark S , Wolanski Lukasz , Feagan Brian G
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Symptoms, endoscopy and histology have been proposed as therapeutic targets in ulcerative colitis (UC). Observational studies suggest that the achievement of histologic remission may be associated with a lower risk of complications, compared with the achievement of endoscopic remission alone. The actiVE ulcerative colitis, a RanDomIsed Controlled Trial (VERDICT) aims to determine the optimal treatment target in patients with UC.

Methods and analysis

In this multicentre, prospective randomised study, 660 patients with moderate to severe UC (Mayo rectal bleeding subscore [RBS] ≥1; Mayo endoscopic score [MES] ≥2) are randomly assigned to three treatment targets: corticosteroid-free symptomatic remission (Mayo RBS=0) (group 1); corticosteroid-free endoscopic remission (MES ≤1) and symptomatic remission (group 2); or corticosteroid-free histologic remission (Geboes score <2B.0), endoscopic remission and symptomatic remission (group 3). Treatment is escalated using vedolizumab according to a treatment algorithm that is dependent on the patient’s baseline UC therapy until the target is achieved at weeks 16, 32 or 48. The primary outcome, the time from target achievement to a UC-related complication, will be compared between groups 1 and 3 using a Cox proportional hazards model.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by ethics committees at the country level or at individual sites as per individual country requirements. A full list of ethics committees is available on request. Study results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and at scientific meetings.

Trial registration number

EudraCT: 2019-002485-12;NCT04259138.
Enhancing care for transgender and gender diverse survivors of intimate partner violence: an Ontario-wide survey examining health and social service providers’ learning needs
Authors: Du Mont Janice A , Kelly C Emma , Seo Hyuna , Brouillard-Coyle Sydney , Mason Robin , Macdonald Sheila , Kosa Sarah Daisy
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To better understand healthcare and social/community service providers’ learning needs associated with supporting transgender and gender diverse (trans) persons who have experienced intimate partner violence (IPV).

Setting

An online survey was distributed through the trans-LINK Network in Ontario, Canada.

Respondents

163 of 225 healthcare and social/community service providers completed the survey (72.4% response rate) between November 2022 and February 2023.

Main outcome measures

Expertise, training, workplace practices and learning needs related to supporting trans survivors of IPV.

Method

Quantitative survey results were analysed descriptively and open-ended responses were organised thematically. In March 2022, survey results were shared with 33 stakeholders who helped define goals and objectives for an e-learning curriculum using Jamboard, data from which were collated and organised into themes.

Results

Most (66.3%) survey respondents described having provided professional support to trans survivors of IPV, but only one-third (38.0%) reported having received relevant training, and many of the trainings cited were in fact focused on other forms of violence or trans health generally. The majority reported a mid (44.9%) or low-mid (28.5%) level of expertise and almost unanimously agreed that they would benefit from (further) training (99.4%). The most commonly recommended goal/objective for a curriculum emerging from the stakeholder consultation was to facilitate collaboration, knowledge sharing and (safe) referrals among organisations.

Conclusions

The results of this study highlight the critical need for an IPV curriculum specific to trans survivors and responsive to the needs of providers. As no one profession can address this complex issue in isolation, it is important that the curriculum aims to facilitate collaboration across sectors. In the absence of appropriate training and referrals, practitioners may perpetuate harm when caring for trans survivors of IPV.
Utilisation of growth monitoring and promotion services and associated factors among mothers of children younger than 2 years in Gondar Zuria District, northwest Ethiopia: a community-based, cross-sectional study
Authors: Belew Aysheshim Kassahun , Worku Netsanet , Gelaye Kassahun Alemu , Gonete Kedir Abdela , Tamir Hunegnaw Melkamu , Muhammad Esmael Ali , Astale Tigist , Mitike Getnet , Abebe Zegeye
Published: February 2024

Objective

The study aimed to assess the utilisation of growth monitoring and promotion services and the associated factors among mothers of children under 2 years old in Gondar Zuria District, northwest Ethiopia.

Design

Community-based, cross-sectional study.

Setting

The study was conducted in Gondar Zuria District, Central Gondar Zone. Data collection was conducted from 10 March to 5 April 2022.

Participants

576 mother–child pairs, recruited via a multistage, stratified random sampling technique.

Outcome measures and analysis

Utilisation of growth monitoring and promotion services was the outcome of the study. Data were entered into Epi Info V.7 and exported to Statistical Package for the Social Sciences V.24.0 for further analysis. Both bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with utilisation of growth monitoring services. A p value less than 0.05 was considered significant for the outcome variable.

Results

The utilisation of growth monitoring and promotion services among children aged 0–23 months was 26.6% (95% CI 22.9, 30.2). Health centre delivery (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.56; 95% CI 1.02, 2.68), postnatal care visits (AOR=3.13; 95% CI 1.99, 4.90), regular growth monitoring and promotion sessions (AOR=6.53; 95% CI 2.43, 9.34), and wealth status (AOR=5.98; 95% CI 3.09, 10.58) were significantly associated with utilisation of growth monitoring and promotion services.

Conclusion

Less than one in three children aged 0–23 months saw utilisation of growth monitoring and promotion services in the study setting. Birthplace, postnatal care follow-up, regular growth promotion and monitoring sessions, and wealth status were associated with utilisation of growth monitoring and promotion services. Enhancing skilled birth delivery, promoting postnatal care follow-up and expanding the availability of growth monitoring and promotion outreach sites could be useful to improve the utilisation of growth monitoring and promotion services.
Efficacy and safety of deferoxamine, deferasirox and deferiprone triple iron chelator combination therapy for transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia with very high iron overload: a protocol for randomised controlled clinical trial
Authors: Premawardhena Anuja , Perera Chamodi , Wijethilaka Muditha Nayana , Wanasinghe Sakuni Keshani , Rajakaruna R H M G , Samarasinghe R A N K K , Williams Senani , Mettananda Sachith
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Despite the improvement in medical management, many patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia die prematurely due to transfusion-related iron overload. As per the current guidelines, the optimal chelation of iron cannot be achieved in many patients, even with two iron chelators at their maximum therapeutic doses. Here, we evaluate the efficacy and safety of triple combination treatment with deferoxamine, deferasirox and deferiprone over dual combination of deferoxamine and deferasirox on iron chelation in patients with transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia with very high iron overload.

Methods and analysis

This is a single-centre, open-label, randomised, controlled clinical trial conducted at the Adult and Adolescent Thalassaemia Centre of Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Ragama, Sri Lanka. Patients with haematologically and genetically confirmed transfusion-dependent β-thalassaemia are enrolled and randomised into intervention or control groups. The intervention arm will receive a combination of oral deferasirox, oral deferiprone and subcutaneous deferoxamine for 6 months. The control arm will receive the combination of oral deferasirox and subcutaneous deferoxamine for 6 months. Reduction in iron overload, as measured by a reduction in the serum ferritin after completion of the treatment, will be the primary outcome measure. Reduction in liver and cardiac iron content as measured by T2* MRI and the side effect profile of trial medications are the secondary outcome measures.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for the study has been obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya (Ref. P/06/02/2023). The trial results will be disseminated in scientific publications in reputed journals.

Trial registration number

The trial is registered in the Sri Lanka Clinical Trials Registry (Ref: SLCTR/2023/010).
Investigating fear of cancer recurrence among female breast cancer survivors and their spouses in southwest China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tao Lin , Ma Xiaolin , Yang Ying , Hu Xiaoxia , Fu Lan , Li Junying
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Examining fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) among breast cancer survivors and their spouses, and the protective effect of family resilience on FCR among couples affected by breast cancer.

Design

Cross-sectional survey design.

Setting

Ten general grade IIIa (>500 beds) hospitals in southwest China.

Participants

Overall, 392 early breast cancer survivors and their spousal caregivers (N=392) were recruited from cancer centres in hospitals.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Spouses’ and survivors’ FCR were the primary outcome measures. Family resilience and perceived stress were the secondary outcome measures. Using a convenience sampling method, we collected data on-site using paper questionnaires. The Chinese version of the Family Resilience Assessment Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, Fear of Progression Questionnaire Short Form and Fear of Progression Questionnaire-Short Form for spouses were used to evaluate the outcomes.

Results

The model accounted for 66.3% and 53.6% of the variance in spouses’ FCR and survivors’ FCR, respectively. Family resilience directly negatively affected perceived stress and spouses’ and survivors’ FCR (β=−0.22; β=−0.13; β=−0.19). Perceived stress was a partial mediator of the association between family resilience and survivors’ FCR (β=−0.070; 95% CI :−0.151 to –0.022). Spouses’ FCR partially mediated the association between family resilience and survivors’ FCR (β=−0.048; 95% CI= −0.092 to –0.015). Perceived stress and spouses’ FCR played a significant chain-mediated role between family resilience and survivors’ FCR (β=−0.061; 95% CI: −0.119 to –0.022).

Conclusions

Family-centred approaches to reducing survivors’ perceived stress can improve the psychological well-being of couples affected by breast cancer and ultimately reduce FCR. Medical staff should consider the psychological feelings of survivors and their spousal caregivers when devising the intervention plan, which should address the families’ potential and mobilise family and community resources for increasing family resilience.
Trustworthy evidence-based versus untrustworthy guidelines: detecting the difference
Authors: Lima João Pedro , Tangamornsuksan Wimonchat , Guyatt Gordon H
Published: February 2024

Guidelines are essential tools in healthcare decision-making. Trustworthy guidelines inform clinicians not only on the direction (against or in favour) and strength (strong or weak/conditional) of recommendations but also on the certainty of the underlying evidence. Developing trustworthy guidelines requires panellists with clinical and methodological expertise who consider patients’ values and preferences. Adherence to trustworthiness standards remains variable; clinicians should, therefore, be able to distinguish trustworthy from untrustworthy guidelines. In this paper, we offer eight domains of disparities between trustworthy evidence-based guidelines and less trustworthy guidelines.
Multiomic molecular characterization of the response to combination immunotherapy in MSS/pMMR metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Takei Shogo , Tanaka Yosuke , Lin Yi-Tzu , Koyama Shohei , Fukuoka Shota , Hara Hiroki , Nakamura Yoshiaki , Kuboki Yasutoshi , Kotani Daisuke , Kojima Takashi , Bando Hideaki , Mishima Saori , Ueno Toshihide , Kojima Shinya , Wakabayashi Masashi , Sakamoto Naoya , Kojima Motohiro , Kuwata Takeshi , Yoshino Takayuki , Nishikawa Hiroyoshi , Mano Hiroyuki , Endo Itaru , Shitara Kohei , Kawazoe Akihito
Published: February 2024

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) combinations represent an emerging treatment strategies in cancer. However, their efficacy in microsatellite stable (MSS) or mismatch repair-proficient (pMMR) colorectal cancer (CRC) is variable. Here, a multiomic characterization was performed to identify predictive biomarkers associated with patient response to ICI combinations in MSS/pMMR CRC for the further development of ICI combinations.

Methods

Whole-exome sequencing, RNA sequencing, and multiplex fluorescence immunohistochemistry of tumors from patients with MSS/pMMR CRC, who received regorafenib plus nivolumab (REGONIVO) or TAS-116 plus nivolumab (TASNIVO) in clinical trials were conducted. Twenty-two and 23 patients without prior ICI from the REGONIVO and TASNIVO trials were included in this study. A biomarker analysis was performed using samples from each of these studies.

Results

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition pathway and genes related to cancer-associated fibroblasts were upregulated in the REGONIVO responder group, and the G2M checkpoint pathway was upregulated in the TASNIVO responder group. The MYC pathway was upregulated in the REGONIVO non-responder group. Consensus molecular subtype 4 was significantly associated with response (p=0.035) and longer progression-free survival (p=0.006) in the REGONIVO trial. CD8+T cells, regulatory T cells, and M2 macrophages density was significantly higher in the REGONIVO trial responders than in non-responders. Mutations in thePOLEgene and patient response were significantly associated in the TASNIVO trial; however, the frequencies of other mutations or tumor mutational burden were not significantly different between responders and non-responders in either trial.

Conclusions

We identified molecular features associated with the response to the REGONIVO and TASNIVO, particularly those related to tumor microenvironmental factors. These findings are likely to contribute to the development of biomarkers to predict treatment efficacy for MSS/pMMR CRC and future immunotherapy combinations for treatment.
Does the use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants increase the risk of COVID-19 infection among people with systemic lupus erythematosus?
Authors: Magder Laurence S , Fava Andrea , Goldman Daniel , Petri Michelle A
Published: February 2024

Objective

An important clinical question is whether the use of immunosuppressants or corticosteroids increases the risk of incident COVID-19 disease among patients with SLE. To address this question, we examined the incidence of COVID-19 infection in a large SLE cohort.

Methods

This study was based on a single-centre cohort of patients with SLE seen quarterly from March 2020 to August 2022. Clinical information from these visits was augmented with information on COVID-19 infections and vaccinations obtained from the electronic medical records and by patient self-report. We compared treated and untreated patients with respect to the incidence of COVID-19 infection per person month. Statistical significance was assessed based on logistic regression models.

Results

We observed 339 incident cases of COVID-19 experienced over 24 614 person-months of follow-up from 1052 different patients. The risk of infection per person-month of follow-up was similar among those not on prednisone (1.37%), on moderate doses of prednisone (<7 mg/day) (1.44%) and those on higher doses (1.52%) (p=0.87 for difference). We observed an elevated risk among those taking belimumab, however, after adjustment for potential confounding variables, the increased risk was not statistically significant (rate ratio 1.4, 95% CI 0.88 to 2.24, p=0.16) There was no evidence of an increased risk among those taking mycophenolate, methotrexate or azathioprine.

Conclusion

It is reassuring that there was not strong evidence of an increased risk of infection among those taking prednisone or other immunosuppressants. However, given the range of our CIs, moderate effects of these medications on COVID-19 risk cannot be completely ruled out.
Community of trauma care partnering with stakeholders to improve injury outcomes: focus group analysis
Authors: Appelbaum Rachel D , Newcomb Anna , Joseph Katherine , Hennessy Morgan , Fortin Princess , Bixby Pam J , Prentiss Sue , McConnell-Hill Alexandra , Flayter Rochelle , Price Michelle A , Dicker Rochelle , Kozar Rosemary , Haut Elliott R , Stein Deborah M
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Engaging trauma survivors/caregivers results in research findings that are more relevant to patients’ needs and priorities. Although their perspectives increase research significance, there is a lack of understanding about how best to incorporate their insights. We aimed to capture stakeholder perspectives to ensure research is meaningful, respectful, and relevant to the injured patient and their caregivers.

Methods

A multiphase, inductive exploratory qualitative study was performed, the first phase of which is described here. Virtual focus groups to elicit stakeholder perspectives and preferences were conducted across 19 trauma centers in the USA during 2022. Discussion topics were chosen to identify patients’ motivation to join research studies, preferences regarding consent, suggestions for increasing diversity and access, and feelings regarding outcomes, efficacy, and exception from informed consent. The focus groups were audio recorded, transcribed, coded, and analyzed to identify the range of perspectives expressed and any common themes that emerged.

Results

Ten 90-minute focus groups included patients/caregiver (n=21/1) and researchers (n=14). Data analysis identified common themes emerging across groups. The importance of trust and preexisting relationships with the clinical care team were the most common themes across all groups.

Conclusion

Our findings reveal common themes in preferences, motivations, and best practices to increase patient/caregiver participation in trauma research. The project’s next phases are distribution of a vignette-based survey to establish broad stakeholder consensus; education and dissemination activities to share strategies that increase research engagement and relevance for patients; and the formation of a panel of patients to support future research endeavors.

Level of evidence

Level IV.
Positron scattering from krypton and xenon
Authors: Machacek J. R. , McEachran R. P.
Published: February 2024

A cross section set is reported for positron scattering from krypton and xenon over the energy range from zero to 1 keV using the relativistic optical potential method. This set includes elastic, positronium formation, excitation, direct ionization, and grand total cross sections. They are compared to the recommended results of Ratnavelu et al. (J Phys Chem Ref Data 48:023102, 2019). The positronium formation cross section reported is represented by the sum obtained by successively lowering the ionization threshold to coincide with those for formation into the four lowest energy levels of positronium.

Graphical Abstract
Cosmological consequences of Brans–Dicke theory in 4D from 5D scalar-vacuum
Authors: Lambiase G. , Troisi A.
Published: February 2024

We study 5D Brans–Dicke theory in the framework of (gravitational) baryogenesis and primordial light element formation. Such a model is able to explain the present cosmic accelerated expansion without recurring to matter fields in 5D or dark energy in 4D. In fact, the 5D to 4D reduction arises a space-matter tensor of geometrical origin that plays the role of a new ingredient on-shell. For an isotropic and homogeneous Universe, the cosmological equations admit a power-law solution of the scale factor, $$a(t)\sim t^\alpha$$

a

(
t
)

∼

t
α

, we constrain the exponential factor $$\alpha$$
α
by using the present bounds on the matter–antimatter asymmetry in the Universe and Big Bang Nucleosynthesis. A possible connection with dark matter relic abundance is also discussed.
$$|V_{ub}|$$ and $$|V_{cb}|$$ from exclusive semileptonic decays
Authors: Bernlochner Florian U. , Prim Markus T. , Vos K. Keri
Published: February 2024

We provide an overview on the existing determinations on $$|V_{ub}|$$

|

V

ub

|

and $$|V_{cb}|$$

|

V

cb

|

, as well as on ratio measurements. New world averages for $$|V_{ub}|$$

|

V

ub

|

from $$B \rightarrow \pi \ell \bar{\nu }_\ell$$

B
→
π
ℓ

ν

¯

ℓ

and for $$|V_{cb}|$$

|

V

cb

|

from $$B \rightarrow D^* \ell \bar{\nu }_\ell$$

B
→

D
∗

ℓ

ν

¯

ℓ

are reported, combining recent measurements and lattice QCD calculations. We combine these new values with other determinations and ratios of $$|V_{ub}|$$

|

V

ub

|

and $$|V_{cb}|$$

|

V

cb

|

to ascertain the current knowledge of both fundamental parameters to evaluate the compatibility with determinations from inclusive semileptonic decays. We find: $$|V_{ub}|= \left( 3.44 \pm 0.12 \right) \times 10^{-3}$$

|

V

ub

|
=

3.44
±
0.12

×

10

-
3

and $$|V_{cb}|= \left( 40.84 \pm 0.48 \right) \times 10^{-3}$$

|

V

cb

|
=

40.84
±
0.48

×

10

-
3

with a correlation of $$\rho = 0.22$$

ρ
=
0.22

. These values show a disagreement from the inclusive determinations at the 2.85 $$\sigma$$
σ
level.