bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Relationships Between Markers of Iron Status and Hematological Parameters in Patients With Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Parrow Nermi L. , Doherty Jason M. , Conrey Anna , Thein Swee Lay , Fleming Robert E. 
Published: December 2024

Based on the relationship between the intracellular concentration of sickle hemoglobin S (HbS) and the delay that occurs prior to the onset of sickling following deoxygenation, targeting the intracellular HbS concentration is a recognized therapeutic approach for sickle cell disease (SCD). We and others have shown that restricting iron by dietary or pharmacologic means improves hematologic parameters, inflammation, and organ damage in mouse models of SCD. Clinical evidence corroborating these findings is confined to case reports and small case series studies, none of which account for treatment or α‐thalassemia. We hypothesize that increased transferrin saturation is associated with increased mean cellular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) which in turn is associated with decreased red cell counts and worsening anemia. To investigate this hypothesis, we examined the relationships between transferrin saturation and MCHC with each of the parameters that define MCHC in sickle patients (HbSS without α‐thalassemia) and healthy volunteers (HVs). Results indicate that transferrin saturation and MCHC are positively correlated with each other in sickle patients and HV. In patients with SCD, MCHC and transferrin saturation are negatively correlated with RBC count and are not correlated with hemoglobin, whereas each is positively associated with HV. Transferrin saturation and MCHC are each positively correlated with the hemolysis marker, lactate dehydrogenase. These observations support a model where increased transferrin saturation contributes to higher intracellular HbS concentrations with subsequent increases in sickling and hemolysis in sickle patients, suggesting that pharmacologic approaches to decrease serum iron may provide a therapeutic approach for patients with SCD.Trial Registration: This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers: NCT00011648, NCT00081523, and NCT04817670.
Proxy- and Model-Estimated Coupled Megadroughts in the Southwestern Regions of North and South America
Authors: Cheung Anson H. , Smerdon Jason E. , Li Cuihua , Steiger Nathan J. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The North American Southwest (NASW) and South American Southwest (SASW) are regions susceptible to prolonged and intense droughts that can span a decade or more (i.e., megadroughts). Although the drivers and impacts of megadroughts in each region and their co-occurrence have been examined in paleoclimate reconstructions, it is not known whether climate models simulate co-occurring megadroughts in these regions with characteristics and drivers that are similar to the real world. We compare the temporal characteristics of concurrent megadroughts and the Pacific Ocean conditions associated with these events in the Paleo Hydrodynamics Data Assimilation (PHYDA) product and the Community Earth System Model Last Millennium Ensemble (CESM-LME). We find that concurrent megadroughts in PHYDA and CESM-LME have similar temporal characteristics, but the relationship between hydroclimate conditions in the NASW and SASW is different between proxy-based estimates and the climate model. Further analyses reveal that changes in the tropical Pacific Ocean are weaker during concurrent megadroughts in the CESM-LME compared to those in PHYDA and that their teleconnection patterns and strengths are different. Reconstruction methodology is also found to be a factor in how the relationship between the tropical Pacific and each region is characterized. These results together indicate that while the CESM-LME simulates concurrent megadroughts with temporal characteristics similar to PHYDA, it does so for different reasons; this result leaves open the question of whether climate models used for future projections can accurately capture the risk of concurrent megadroughts in future projections.
Idiopathic recurrent ischemic priapism: a review of current literature and an algorithmic approach to evaluation and management
Authors: Yarak Naim , El Khoury Joey , Coloby Patrick , Bart Stéphane , Abdessater Maher 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Stuttering priapism is characterized by recurrent, self-limited episodes of penile erection lasting from a few minutes to a maximum of three hours, often resolving spontaneously. These episodes can occur with or without sexual stimulation. If not treated promptly and effectively, stuttering priapism can severely impact a patient’s quality of life, leading to significant psychological distress and anxiety related to sexual performance. Although it has been associated with various hematological disorders and pharmacological treatments, many cases of stuttering priapism remain idiopathic, meaning they have no identifiable cause. Currently, no conclusive randomized clinical trials exist on the management of idiopathic stuttering priapism. This study aims to review the existing literature on the pathophysiology and management of idiopathic stuttering priapism and propose an algorithm to assist physicians in its evaluation and treatment.

Results
A systematic literature review was conducted using the PubMed database, focusing on the terms “idiopathic,” “stuttering,” “ischemic,” and “priapism.” The search identified 23 relevant references published between 1991 and 2022. The selection and analysis of these studies adhered to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, and results were described qualitatively. Recent research into the effectiveness, sustainability, tolerability, and side effects of various treatments for idiopathic stuttering priapism has enhanced the understanding of its underlying molecular mechanisms. Various treatments, targeting different mechanisms, have been identified that can potentially reduce the frequency and severity of episodes and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion
Current research predominantly addresses the acute treatment of idiopathic stuttering priapism rather than strategies to alter the disease’s overall course. The limited number of treatment reviews, case reports, and the low level of evidence available, combined with the absence of randomized clinical trials, prevent the establishment of a consensus on treatment protocols. As a result, idiopathic stuttering priapism remains under-recognized and under-treated. This review proposes a management framework to help clinicians access and apply the available literature effectively, minimizing the reliance on extensive case reports and review articles.
Causal effect of chemotherapy received dose intensity on survival outcome: a retrospective study in osteosarcoma
Authors: Spreafico Marta , Ieva Francesca , Fiocco Marta 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
This study aims to analyse the effects of reducing Received Dose Intensity (RDI) in chemotherapy treatment for osteosarcoma patients on their survival by using a novel approach. Previous research has highlighted discrepancies between planned and actual RDI, even among patients randomized to the same treatment regimen. To mitigate toxic side effects, treatment adjustments, such as dose reduction or delayed courses, are necessary. Toxicities are therefore risk factors for mortality and predictors of future exposure levels. Toxicity introduces post-assignment confounding when assessing the causal effect of chemotherapy RDI on survival outcomes, a topic of ongoing debate.

Methods
Chemotherapy administration data from BO03 and BO06 Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs) in ostosarcoma are employed to emulate a target trial with three RDI-based exposure strategies: 1) standard, 2) reduced, and 3) highly-reduced RDI. Investigations are conducted between subgroups of patients characterised by poor or good Histological Responses (HRe), i.e., the strongest known prognostic factor for survival in osteosarcoma. Inverse Probability of Treatment Weighting (IPTW) is first used to transform the original population into a pseudo-population which mimics the target randomized cohort. Then, a Marginal Structural Cox Model with effect modification is employed. Conditional Average Treatment Effects (CATEs) are ultimately measured as the difference between the Restricted Mean Survival Time of reduced/highly-reduced RDI strategy and the standard one. Confidence Intervals for CATEs are obtained using a novel IPTW-based bootstrap procedure.

Results
Significant effect modifications based on HRe were found. Increasing RDI-reductions led to contrasting trends for poor and good responders: the higher the reduction, the better (worsen) was the survival in poor (good) reponders. Due to their intrinsic resistance to chemotherapy, poor reponders could benefit from reduced RDI, with an average gain of 10.2 and 15.4 months at 5-year for reduced and highly-reduced exposures, respectively.

Conclusions
This study introduces a novel approach to (i) comprehensively address the challenges related to the analysis of chemotherapy data, (ii) mitigate the toxicity-treatment-adjustment bias, and (iii) repurpose existing RCT data for retrospective analyses extending beyond the original trials’ intended scopes.
Participant engagement and involvement in longitudinal cohort studies: qualitative insights from a selection of pregnancy and birth, twin, and family-based population cohort studies
Authors: Budin-Ljøsne Isabelle , Fredheim Nanna A. G. , Jevne Charlotte Alison , Kleven Bojana Milanovic , Charles Marie Aline , Felix Janine F. , Flaig Robin , García María Paz , Havdahl Alexandra , Islam Shahid , Kerr Shona M. , Meder Inger Kristine , Molloy Lynn , Morton Susan M. B. , Pizzi Costanza , Rahman Aamnah , Willemsen Gonneke , Wood Diane , Harris Jennifer R. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Longitudinal cohort studies are pivotal to understand how socioeconomic, environmental, biological, and lifestyle factors influence health and disease. The added value of cohort studies increases as they accumulate life course data and expand across generations. Ensuring that participants stay motivated to contribute over decades of follow-up is, however, challenging. Participant engagement and involvement (PEI) aims to secure the long-term commitment of participants and promote researcher-participant interaction. This study explored PEI practices in a selection of pregnancy and birth, twin, and family-based population cohort studies.

Methods
Purposive sampling was used to identify cohorts in Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Fourteen semi-structured digital interviews were conducted with cohort study representatives to explore strategies for participant recruitment, informed consent, communication of general and individual information to participants, data collection, and participant involvement. Experiences, resources allocated to PEI, and reflections on future PEI, were discussed. The interview data were analyzed using a content analysis approach and summary results were reviewed and discussed by the representatives.

Results
The cohort studies used various strategies to recruit participants including support from health professionals and organizations combined with information on the studies’ web sites and social media. New approaches such as intra-cohort recruitment, were being investigated. Most cohorts transitioned from paper-based to digital solutions to collect the participants’ consent and data. While digital solutions increased efficiency, they also brought new challenges. The studies experimented with the use of participant advisory panels and focus groups to involve participants in making decisions, although their success varied across age and socio-economic background. Most representatives reported PEI resources to be limited and called for more human, technical, educational and financial resources to maximize the positive effects of PEI.

Conclusions
This study of PEI among well-established cohort studies underscores the importance of PEI for project sustainability and highlights key factors to consider in developing PEI. Our analysis shows that knowledge gaps exist regarding which approaches have highest impact on retention rates and are best suited for different participant groups. Research is needed to support the development of best practices for PEI as well as knowledge exchange between cohorts through network building.
A mixed methods study of the postnatal care journey from birth to discharge in a maternity service in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Schmied Virginia , Myors Karen , Burns Elaine , Curry Joanne , Pangas Jacqueline , Dahlen Hannah G. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Service gaps continue in hospital and community-based postnatal care despite a high prevalence of physical and mental health concerns reported by women following birth. The aim of this study was to describe the postnatal journey and the care provided to women and their babies who were at low risk for health complications from birth to discharge from the maternity service.

Methods
A mixed methods design was used to map the postnatal journey, for the woman and baby, from birth to discharge from the maternity service. Data were collected through activity diaries completed by 15 women and telephone interviews with the women two weeks after birth.

Results
The average hospital postnatal stay was 70 h and, in this time, the women received on average, a total of 3 h of direct care from a health professional. That is, 4.3% of the in-hospital postnatal stay was spent interacting with a health professional. Approximately 53 min of care in the postnatal unit was directed at the mother’s health, 50 min on the baby’s health needs, 43 min supporting breastfeeding and 20 min on discharge information. Most reported that hospital based postnatal care was helpful, although they reported that staff on the postnatal unit were rushed and mostly the midwife caring for them was unfamiliar to them. Breastfeeding support in the first 12–24 h was limited, with women wanting more one-on-one access to midwives. Some women received home-based midwifery care, and on average each home visit by a midwife was 29 min. Women who received home-based midwifery care reported that this care was very helpful. Women reported that home-based midwives were more likely to engage women in conversations about their social and emotional needs than hospital-based midwives. All mothers were offered a home visit from a child and family health nurse and most visited a general practitioner in the first week.

Conclusions
Women often experience limited time in direct interaction with midwives in the postnatal unit in hospital. Those who received midwifery care at home were more satisfied with this care, Women are requesting more support from professionals in the early postnatal period.
Short-term and long-term oncological outcomes of chemoradiotherapy for rectal cancer patients with or without oxaliplatin: a propensity score-matched retrospective analysis
Authors: Azimi Amirali , Tabatabaei Fatemeh Sadat , Kolahdouzan Kasra , Rashidian Hamideh , Nourbakhsh Forouzan , Parizi Maryam Abedini , Darzikolaee Nima Mousavi , Bayani Reyhaneh , Salarvand Samaneh , Sharifian Azadeh , Bagheri Farzaneh , Rezaei Saeed , Nabian Naeim , Nazari Reza , Mohammadi Negin , Babaei Mohammad , Lashkari Marzieh , Farhan Farshid , Aghili Mahdi , Couñago Felipe , Gambacorta Maria Antonietta , Ghalehtaki Reza 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background/Aim
Current approaches for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) typically recommend neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) with 5-fluorouracil (5FU) or its oral analogs followed by surgery as the standard of care. However, the question of whether intensifying concurrent chemotherapy by adding oxaliplatin to the 5FU-based backbone can yield better outcomes remains unresolved. This study aimed to investigate the benefits of incorporating oxaliplatin into fluoropyrimidine-based chemoradiotherapy (CRT) to increase locoregional control and survival.

Methods
Among 290 patients with LARC admitted to the Iran Cancer Institute’s radiation oncology department between January 2008 and December 2019, 29 received CAPEOX (capecitabine 625 mg/m²/bid on RT days and weekly oxaliplatin 50 mg/m²), whereas 293 received capecitabine (825 mg/m² twice daily or rarely 5FU in the first 4 days and last week of radiotherapy (RT)). Variables potentially affecting treatment outcomes were used for propensity score matching. Kaplan‒Meier and log-rank tests were employed for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) analyses and were adjusted with propensity score matching.

Results
Data from 29 patients who received CAPEOX and 216 patients who received capecitabine were analyzed after propensity score matching without replacement. After propensity score matching, in the multivariate analysis, CAPEOX significantly increased the likelihood of achieving a pathologic complete response (pCR) by 4.38 times (CI: 1.90–10.08, p value < 0.001). However, CAPEOX did not demonstrate any statistically significant predictive value for DFS (P = 0.500) or OS (P = 0.449).

Conclusion
The addition of oxaliplatin resulted in a significantly higher rate of pCR without any translation into long-term survival outcomes.
The impact of a dedicated checklist on the quality of onsite management of critically buried avalanche victims in cardiac arrest in a Swiss helicopter emergency medical service
Authors: Trolliet Maxime , Pasquier Mathieu , Blancher Marc , Albrecht Roland , Lovis Alban , Brugger Hermann , Kottmann Alexandre 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
The management of avalanche victims in cardiac arrest (CA) is a challenging situation for rescuers. Despite existing specific management algorithms, previous studies have reported poor compliance with international guidelines and incomplete documentation and transmission of the information required for patient management. The Avalanche Victim Resuscitation Checklist (AVRC) was developed in 2014 in response by the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine. Our aim was to assess the impact of the AVRC on the quality of onsite management of critically buried avalanche victims in CA, i.e. the compliance of management with international guidelines and the completeness of documentation of avalanche specific information.

Methods
We assessed compliance and documentation in a Swiss helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) between January 2010 and April 2020. Victims buried for more than 24 h were excluded.

Results
In the 10-year study period, 87 critically buried avalanche victims in CA were treated by the HEMS, 44 of them after the introduction of the AVRC. Enough information was available to assess management compliance in over 90% of cases (n = 79). Inadequate management (n = 25, 32%) and incomplete documentation occurred more often in patients with a long burial duration. After the introduction of the AVRC, the compliance of patient management with the guidelines increased by 36% (from 59 to 95%, p < 0.05) and led to complete documentation of the required information for patient management.

Conclusions
The use of the AVRC improves the quality of management of critically buried avalanche victims in CA and ensures complete documentation of avalanche specific information. Quality improvement efforts should focus on the management of avalanche victims with a long burial duration. The use of the AVRC enables identification and appropriate treatment of patients with hypothermic cardiac arrest.
Scalable camera traps for measuring the attractiveness of sugar baits for controlling malaria and dengue vectors
Authors: Meza Felician C. , Tenywa Frank C. , Ashall Simon , Okumu Fredros O. , Moore Sarah J. , Tripet Frederic 
Published: December 2024

Background
Attractive targeted sugar baits (ATSBs) are promising new interventions that can complement existing vector control tools. However, reproducible and quantitative information on the level of attractiveness of ATSBs under field conditions is needed. Therefore, we customized camera traps for close-up imaging. We integrated them into a rugged ATSB monitoring station for day and nighttime recording of mosquitoes landing on the bait.

Methods
The camera traps were evaluated in a semifield system and then in the field in rural Tanzania. In semifield experiments, camera traps were set up in large cages (2 m × 5 m × 2 m) to record mosquitoes landing on an attractive sugar bait (ASB), a blank ASB, or 20% sucrose (w/v). Next, 198 mosquitoes (33 males and 33 females of Anopheles arabiensis, An. funestus and Aedes aegypti) were released into each large cage and allowed to seek a sugar meal for 72 h with a camera recording images of the mosquitoes present on the ASB at 1-min intervals. In the field, 16 camera traps were set in 16 households, 7 with ASB attractant, 7 with ASB blank, and 2 with 20% sucrose (w/v). Human landing catch (HLC) was performed on the same nights as the camera trap recordings.

Results
Under semifield conditions, significantly more mosquitoes visited the ASBs than the blank baits, with An. funestus visiting more frequently than An. arabiensis. There were no significant differences between female and male An. arabiensis visits, but female An. funestus visited more than their conspecific males did. The duration of visits did not vary between the ASB and blank controls or between the mosquito species. Moreover, mosquitoes visited the ASB or sucrose equally, with An. arabiensis visiting the baits more than An. funestus. Compared with male mosquitoes, female mosquitoes visited the baits more often. There was no significant difference in visit duration between the species.
In the field study, a mean of 70 An. arabiensis were caught per person per night on HLC, while 1 individual was caught per night on ASBs. There were significantly more visits by mosquitoes to the ASB than to the ASB blanks or sucrose solution, with more An. arabiensis visiting the baits than An. funestus or Culex quinquefasciatus. Significantly more females than males visited the baits of all the species. Again, the duration of visits was similar among An. arabiensis, An. funestus and C. quinquefasciatus. Aedes aegypti very rarely visited ASBs in the semifield experiments, and none were observed on baits in the field.

Conclusions
Using camera traps to record still images of mosquitoes on ASBs offers reliable, reproducible and quantitative information on their attractiveness in various environmental conditions. Thus, camera traps serve as effective tools for evaluating and improving ATSB technology.

Graphical abstract