bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The prognostic value of artificial intelligence to predict cardiac amyloidosis in patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Pereyra Pietri Milagros , Farina Juan M , Mahmoud Ahmed K , Scalia Isabel G , Galasso Francesca , Killian Michael E , Suppah Mustafa , Kenyon Courtney R , Koepke Laura M , Padang Ratnasari , Chao Chieh-Ju , Sweeney John P , Fortuin F David , Eleid Mackram F , Sell-Dottin Kristen A , Steidley David E , Scott Luis R , Fonseca Rafael , Lopez-Jimenez Francisco , Attia Zachi I , Dispenzieri Angela , Grogan Martha , Rosenthal Julie L , Arsanjani Reza , Ayoub Chadi 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Aims
Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is common in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Cardiac amyloidosis has poor outcomes, and its assessment in all TAVR patients is costly and challenging. Electrocardiogram (ECG) artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms that screen for CA may be useful to identify at-risk patients.

Methods and results
In this retrospective analysis of our institutional National Cardiovascular Disease Registry (NCDR)-TAVR database, patients undergoing TAVR between January 2012 and December 2018 were included. Pre-TAVR CA probability was analysed by an ECG AI predictive model, with &gt;50% risk defined as high probability for CA. Univariable and propensity score covariate adjustment analyses using Cox regression were performed to compare clinical outcomes between patients with high CA probability vs. those with low probability at 1-year follow-up after TAVR. Of 1426 patients who underwent TAVR (mean age 81.0 ± 8.5 years, 57.6% male), 349 (24.4%) had high CA probability on pre-procedure ECG. Only 17 (1.2%) had a clinical diagnosis of CA. After multivariable adjustment, high probability of CA by ECG AI algorithm was significantly associated with increased all-cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 1.40, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–1.96, P = 0.046] and higher rates of major adverse cardiovascular events (transient ischaemic attack (TIA)/stroke, myocardial infarction, and heart failure hospitalizations] (HR 1.36, 95% CI 1.01–1.82, P = 0.041), driven primarily by heart failure hospitalizations (HR 1.58, 95% CI 1.13–2.20, P = 0.008) at 1-year follow-up. There were no significant differences in TIA/stroke or myocardial infarction.

Conclusion
Artificial intelligence applied to pre-TAVR ECGs identifies a subgroup at higher risk of clinical events. These targeted patients may benefit from further diagnostic evaluation for CA.
Renegotiating Citizenship through the Lens of the ‘People’s War’ in Second World War Britain
Authors: Hammett Jessica , Irving Henry 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This article re-examines the importance of the ‘people’s war’ by exploring the word history of the phrase. The article shows that the term was widely used and understood on the British home front during the Second World War. Our focus is on how it provided a framework to renegotiate citizenship. Drawing on a wide range of popular newspapers, magazines and life writing, we argue that the ‘people’s war’ was a flexible concept. It was used, on the one hand, to explain extensions to the duties of citizenship and encourage participation, and, on the other, to demand a greater voice, recognition and rewards for citizens. This shaped the lived experience of wartime, and provided a language for ‘ordinary people’, as well as politicians and the press, to articulate their demands in the present and hopes for the future. We argue that the ‘people’s war’ remains an important historical concept. The process of negotiation through the lens of the ‘people’s war’ not only sheds light on wartime experience; it also suggests new ways to think through vernacular understandings of citizenship and the relationship between the people and the state, in the post-war world and beyond.
Self-reported preoperative depressive symptoms and survival after cardiac surgery
Authors: Falk Anna , Sartipy Ulrik , Stenman Malin 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Depression has been associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to determine whether self-reported preoperative depressive symptoms were associated with worse long-term survival in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

METHODS
This population-based, observational cohort study included patients who had undergone cardiac surgery at Karolinska University Hospital between 2013 and 2016. Self-reported data about depressive symptoms were collected using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and other patient data were collected from the institutional surgical database and medical charts. Depression was defined as a PHQ-9 score ≥10. Weighted flexible parametric survival models were used to estimate the association between self-reported preoperative depressive symptoms and all-cause mortality and to quantify absolute survival differences.

RESULTS
Of the 1120 study patients, 162 (14.5%) had depressive symptoms before cardiac surgery. During a mean follow-up of 7.2 years (maximum, 9.2 years), there were 36 deaths in 1129 person-years (PYs) in the depressed group, compared to 160 deaths in 6889 PYs in the non-depressed group. In the adjusted analysis, self-reported depressive symptoms were associated with worse long-term survival (hazard ratio 1.66; 95% confidence interval 1.09–2.54) compared with no reported depressive symptoms. The absolute survival differences (% and 95% confidence interval) between the non-depressed and the depressed patients were –1.9 (–3.9 to 0.19), –5.7 (–11 to –0.01) and –9.7 (–19 to –0.4) after 1, 5 and 8 years, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS
Self-reported preoperative depressive symptoms were associated with worse long-term survival following cardiac surgery and should be regarded as important as other classical risk factors.
Six-year clinical and computed tomography angiography follow-up after Nexus implantation
Authors: D’Onofrio Augusto , Antonello Michele , Piazza Michele , Gerosa Gino 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Endovascular aortic arch repair (Ar-TEVAR) with single-branch, off-the-shelf Nexus aortic arch system has shown promising early and 3-year outcomes. There is lack of data regarding long-term results of this specific device, particularly regarding patency of supra-aortic bypasses and stability of the connection between the 2 modules. This case report describes 6-year clinical and imaging follow-up of a 74-year-old patient who underwent Ar-TEVAR with Nexus. Over 6 years, the patient experienced minor complications unrelated to the device. The patency of supra-aortic bypasses and integrity of the device’s connection were confirmed. Computed tomography angiography constantly showed exclusion of the aneurysm and reduction of the aneurysmal sac. In conclusion, although extended research and broader data are needed, this case provides encouraging evidence of long-term results of Ar-TEVAR with Nexus.
Real-world experience with 11C-methionine positron emission tomography in the management of acromegaly
Authors: Haberbosch Linus , MacFarlane James , Koulouri Olympia , Gillett Daniel , Powlson Andrew S , Oddy Sue , Halsall David J , Huynh Kevin A , Jones Jonathan , Cheow Heok K , Spranger Joachim , Mai Knut , Strasburger Christian J , Mannion Richard J , Gurnell Mark 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
L-[methyl-11C]-methionine-positron emission tomography (Met-PET) is a potentially important imaging adjunct in the diagnostic workup of pituitary adenomas, including somatotroph tumors. Met-PET can identify residual or occult disease and make definitive therapies accessible to a subgroup of patients who would otherwise require lifelong medical therapy. However, existing data on its use are still limited to small case series. Here, we report the largest single-center experience (n = 61) in acromegaly.

Methods
A total of 189 cases of acromegaly were referred to our national Met-PET service in the last 12 years. For this analysis, we have reviewed outcomes in those 61 patients managed exclusively by our multidisciplinary team (single center, single surgeon). Referral indications were as follows: indeterminate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; n = 38, 62.3%), occult residual (n = 14, 23.0%), (radio-)surgical planning (n = 6, 9.8%), and occult de novo tumor (n = 3, 4.9%).

Results
A total of 33/61 patients (54.1%) underwent PET-guided surgery. Twenty-four of 33 patients (72.7%) achieved complete biochemical remission following (re-)surgery. Insulin-like growth factor 1 levels were reduced to &lt;2 × upper limit of normal (ULN) in 6 of the remaining 9 cases, 3 of whom achieved levels of &lt;1.1 × ULN compared with mean preoperative levels of 2.4 × ULN (SD 0.8) for n = 9. Only 3 patients developed single new hormonal deficits (gonadotropic/thyrotropic insufficiency). There were no neurovascular complications after surgery.

Conclusion
In patients with persistent/recurrent acromegaly or occult tumors, Met-PET can facilitate further targeted intervention (surgery/radiosurgery). This led to complete remission in most cases (24/33) or significant improvement with comparatively low risk of complications. L-[methyl-11C]-methionine-positron emission tomography should therefore be considered in all patients who are potential candidates for further surgical intervention but present no clear target on MRI.
Association between sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors and arrhythmic outcomes in patients with diabetes and pre-existing atrial fibrillation
Authors: Fichadiya Akash , Quinn Amity , Au Flora , Campbell Dennis , Lau Darren , Ronksley Paul , Beall Reed , Campbell David J T , Wilton Stephen B , Chew Derek S 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Aims
Prior studies suggest that sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) may decrease the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, it is unknown whether SGLT2i can attenuate the disease course of AF among patients with pre-existing AF and Type II diabetes mellitus (DM). In this study, our objective was to examine the association between SGLT2i prescription and arrhythmic outcomes among patients with DM and pre-existing AF.

Methods and results
We conducted a population-based cohort study of adults with DM and AF between 2014 and 2019. Using a prevalent new-user design, individuals prescribed SGLT2i were matched 1:1 to those prescribed dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4is) based on time-conditional propensity scores. The primary endpoint was a composite of AF-related healthcare utilization (i.e. hospitalization, emergency department visits, electrical cardioversion, or catheter ablation). Secondary outcome measures included all-cause mortality, heart failure (HF) hospitalization, and ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA). Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine the association of SGLT2i with the study endpoint. Among 2242 patients with DM and AF followed for an average of 3.0 years, the primary endpoint occurred in 8.7% (n = 97) of patients in the SGLT2i group vs. 10.0% (n = 112) of patients in the DPP4i group [adjusted hazard ratio 0.73 (95% confidence interval 0.55–0.96; P = 0.03)]. Sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors were associated with significant reductions in all-cause mortality and HF hospitalization, but there was no difference in the risk of ischaemic stroke/TIA.

Conclusion
Among patients with DM and pre-existing AF, SGLT2is are associated with decreased AF-related health resource utilization and improved arrhythmic outcomes compared with DPP4is.
EU Member State Support to Ukraine
Authors: Haesebrouck Tim 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The EU and its member states have provided an unprecedented amount of military, humanitarian and financial aid to Ukraine after Russia's attack on February 24, 2022. However, while some EU member states have provided a disproportionately high level of support to Ukraine, other member states committed an unexpectedly low level of aid. This article aims to explain the diverging levels of EU member state support to Ukraine by building on theories of military burden-sharing. Methodologically, it applies the innovative fit robustness procedure of Coincidence Analysis (CNA). The results of the analysis indicate that conditions derived from theories of military burden-sharing can explain support to Ukraine. More specifically, the pattern of support was (mainly) explained by the level of threat that each member state faced from Russia, past military investments and public opinion. Conversely, in contrast to the frequently tested and confirmed exploitation hypothesis, the economic size of the member states did not have an impact on their support to Ukraine.
The Complex Landscape of Structural Divergence Between the Drosophila pseudoobscura and D. persimilis Genomes
Authors: Carpinteyro-Ponce Javier , Machado Carlos A 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Structural genomic variants are key drivers of phenotypic evolution. They can span hundreds to millions of base pairs and can thus affect large numbers of genetic elements. Although structural variation is quite common within and between species, its characterization depends upon the quality of genome assemblies and the proportion of repetitive elements. Using new high-quality genome assemblies, we report a complex and previously hidden landscape of structural divergence between the genomes of Drosophila persimilis and D. pseudoobscura, two classic species in speciation research, and study the relationships among structural variants, transposable elements, and gene expression divergence. The new assemblies confirm the already known fixed inversion differences between these species. Consistent with previous studies showing higher levels of nucleotide divergence between fixed inversions relative to collinear regions of the genome, we also find a significant overrepresentation of INDELs inside the inversions. We find that transposable elements accumulate in regions with low levels of recombination, and spatial correlation analyses reveal a strong association between transposable elements and structural variants. We also report a strong association between differentially expressed (DE) genes and structural variants and an overrepresentation of DE genes inside the fixed chromosomal inversions that separate this species pair. Interestingly, species-specific structural variants are overrepresented in DE genes involved in neural development, spermatogenesis, and oocyte-to-embryo transition. Overall, our results highlight the association of transposable elements with structural variants and their importance in driving evolutionary divergence.
On the temperature sensitivity of near-surface seismic wave speeds: application to the Groningen region, the Netherlands
Authors: Fokker Eldert , Ruigrok Elmer , Trampert Jeannot 
Published: March 2024

SUMMARY
Subsurface temperature measurements play a crucial role, for instance, in optimizing geothermal power plants and monitoring heat-storage systems. Previous studies have demonstrated that time-lapse variations in temperature can be correlated with variations in seismic wave speeds, offering the potential for temperature monitoring via seismic surveys. However, an apparent discrepancy has emerged between field and laboratory experiments. Field studies predominantly report positive correlations between temperature and seismic wave speeds, while laboratory experiments often show anticorrelations. This inconsistency underscores the need for a more comprehensive, physics-based understanding of temperature-induced wave speed changes. In this study, we strive to bridge the gap between field and laboratory findings by examining several mechanisms governing temperature-induced seismic wave speed changes, namely the intrinsic temperature dependency of elastic parameters and thermally induced elasticity. We present a physics-based modelling approach to identify the primary mechanisms responsible for temperature-induced seismic wave speed changes. By considering several end-member models, we find that intrinsic temperature dependency of elastic parameters (negative correlation) compete with thermal pressure effects (positive correlation). The precise initial and boundary conditions and physical parameters of the system under consideration will determine the weight of both effects. Temperature-related dilatation does not seem to play an important role. We apply our approach to loosely consolidated sediments in the shallow subsurface of the Groningen region, where subsurface temperature fluctuations are driven by seasonal atmospheric temperature fluctuations roughly between −5 and $30\, ^\circ$C. For these models, we predict seasonal temperature-induced changes in body-wave speeds of up to 8 per cent in the first few metres of the subsurface, high-frequency (above 2 Hz) surface wave phase velocity variations in the range of 1–2 per cent, and relative changes in site amplification on the order of 4 per cent. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationship between temperature and near-surface seismic properties, offering insights for applications as subsurface temperature monitoring systems.
Mpox-Specific Immune Responses Elicited by Vaccination or Infection in People With HIV
Authors: Grüner Eva , Grossegesse Marica , Stern Daniel , Ober Veronica , Eser Tabea M , Reiling Gabriele , Stirner Renate , Ibarra Gerardo , Postel Nils , Conca Raffaele , Dächert Christopher , Grifoni Alba , Sette Alessandro , Bogner Johannes , Seybold Ulrich , Roider Julia 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
In the recent mpox outbreak, people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) were at high risk both for contracting infection and for a more severe disease course. We studied cellular and humoral immune responses elicited by mpox infection (n = 5; n = 3 PWH) or smallpox vaccination (n = 17; all PWH) in a cohort of men who have sex with men. All PWH were successfully treated, with stable CD4 counts and undetectable HIV viral loads. Eleven of 17 vaccinated individuals had received childhood smallpox vaccination. In this group of individuals, both 2-dose modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vaccination and natural infection evoked mpox-specific immune responses mediated by B cells as well as CD4 and CD8 T cells. This study improves our understanding of smallpox vaccination-mediated cross-reactivity to other orthopox viruses, and long-lasting durability of childhood smallpox vaccination-mediated immune responses, including in PWH.
Effects of a novel dental chew on oral health outcomes, halitosis, and microbiota of adult dogs
Authors: Oba Patricia M , Sieja Kelly M , Schauwecker Amy , Somrak Amy J , Hristova Teodora S , Keating Stephanie C J , Swanson Kelly S 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Halitosis in dogs is an initial indication of periodontitis, highlighting its significance as a vital marker for underlying problems. Moreover, the oral microbial population has a significant influence on periodontal disease. Measuring the oral microbiota may be used in addition to breath odor, dental plaque, and gingivitis scoring to assess the impact of dental chews on oral health. In this study, we aimed to determine the differences in breath odor, oral health outcomes, and oral microbiota of adult dogs consuming a novel dental chew compared with control dogs consuming only a diet. Twelve healthy adult female beagle dogs were used in a crossover design study. Treatments (n = 12/group) included: diet only (control) or the diet + a novel dental chew. Each day, one chew was provided 4 h after mealtime. On days 1, 7, 14, 21, and 27, breath samples were analyzed for total volatile sulfur compound concentrations using a halimeter. On day 0 of each period, teeth were cleaned by a veterinary dentist blinded to treatments. Teeth were scored for plaque, calculus, and gingivitis by the same veterinary dentist on day 28 of each period. After scoring, subgingival and supragingival plaque samples were collected for microbiota analysis using Illumina MiSeq. All data were analyzed using SAS (version 9.4) using the Mixed Models procedure, with P &lt; 0.05 being significant. Overall, the dental chews were well accepted. Dogs consuming the dental chews had lower calculus coverage, thickness, and scores, lower gingivitis scores, and less pocket bleeding than control dogs. Breath volatile sulfur compounds were lower in dogs consuming the dental chews. Bacterial alpha-diversity analysis demonstrated that control dogs had higher bacterial richness than dogs fed dental chews. Bacterial beta-diversity analysis demonstrated that samples clustered based on treatment. In subgingival and supragingival plaque, control dogs had higher relative abundances of potentially pathogenic bacteria (Pelistega, Desulfovibrio, Desulfomicrobium, Fretibacterium, Helcococcus, and Treponema) and lower relative abundances of genera associated with oral health (Neisseria, Actinomyces, and Corynebacterium). Our results suggest that the dental chew tested in this study may aid in reducing periodontal disease risk in dogs by beneficially shifting the microbiota population and inhabiting plaque buildup.
International investment agreements and the global minimum tax: of treaty troubles and investment incentives
Authors: Beyer Vincent 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Statutory and effective tax rates have witnessed a marked decline over the past decades, prompting international tax policymakers to grapple with the challenge of tax competition. The latest tool in this struggle is the global minimum tax (GMT). This paper examines the intersection between the GMT and International Investment Agreements (IIAs). It first briefly explains the operation of the GMT and reviews how IIAs address domestic tax measures. It goes on to argue that multinational enterprises (MNEs) affected by the GMT are unlikely to file large numbers of investor-State dispute settlement cases to challenge its implementation. Instead, MNEs will leverage IIAs in seeking to replace corporate income tax incentives captured by the minimum tax with alternative economic benefits. Given how income-tax-based investment incentives are administered in practice, many MNEs could plausibly argue that the withdrawal or undermining of these incentives through top-up taxes violates IIA protection standards. The paper concludes by outlining the potential motivations and options for MNEs seeking to replace tax incentives and the implications for the ongoing global effort to address tax challenges. Ultimately, the GMT’s design means that the race to the bottom is likely to shift elsewhere.