bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Very early invasive strategy in higher risk non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome: the RAPID NSTEMI trial
Authors: Kite Thomas A , Ladwiniec Andrew , Greenwood John P , Gale Chris P , Anantharam Brijesh , More Ranjit , Hetherington Simon Lee , Khan Sohail Q , O'Kane Peter , Rakhit Roby , Chase Alexander , Barber Shaun , Waheed Ghazala , Berry Colin , Flather Marcus , McCann Gerry P , Curzen Nick , Banning Adrian P , Gershlick Anthony H 
Published: December 2023

ObjectiveTo investigate whether a very early invasive strategy (IS)±revascularisation improves clinical outcomes compared with standard care IS in higher risk patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS).MethodsMulticentre, randomised, controlled, pragmatic strategy trial of higher risk patients with NSTE-ACS, defined by Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events 2.0 score of ≥118, or ≥90 with at least one additional high-risk feature. Participants were randomly assigned to very early IS±revascularisation (<90 min from randomisation) or standard care IS±revascularisation (<72 hours). The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality, new myocardial infarction or hospitalisation for heart failure at 12 months.ResultsThe trial was discontinued early by the funder due to slow recruitment during the COVID-19 pandemic. 425 patients were randomised, of whom 413 underwent an IS: 204 to very early IS (median time from randomisation: 1.5 hours (IQR: 0.9–2.0)) and 209 to standard care IS (median: 44.0 hours (IQR: 22.9–72.6)). At 12 months, there was no significant difference in the primary outcome between the early IS (5.9%) and standard IS (6.7%) groups (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.42 to 2.09; p=0.86). The incidence of stroke and major bleeding was similar. The length of hospital stay was reduced with a very early IS (3.9 days (SD 6.5) vs 6.3 days (SD 7.6), p<0.01).ConclusionsA strategy of very early IS did not improve clinical outcomes compared with a standard care IS in higher risk patients with NSTE-ACS. However, the primary outcome rate was low and the trial was underpowered to detect such a difference.Trial registration numberNCT03707314.
Risk-reducing decisions regarding germlineBRCApathogenic variant: focusing on the timing of genetic testing and RRSO
Authors: Abe Akiko , Nomura Hidetaka , Fusegi Atsushi , Yunokawa Mayu , Ueki Arisa , Habano Eri , Arakawa Hiromi , Kaneko Keika , Minoura Yuko , Inari Hitoshi , Ueno Takayuki , Kanao Hiroyuki 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundIn Japan, the public insurance policy was revised in 2020 to cover hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC), including genetic testing and surveillance, for patients with breast cancer (BC). Consequently, the demand for risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) has increased. This study aimed to clarify the changes in the demand and timing of genetic testing and RRSO associated with public insurance coverage for HBOC in Japan.MethodsThis retrospective analysis included 350 women with germlineBRCA(gBRCA) pathogenic variants (PVs) who had visited gynaecologists; they received gBRCAgenetic testing at 45.1±10.6 (20–74) years. The use of medical testing and preventive treatment was compared between the preinsurance and postinsurance groups using Mann-Whitney U and Fisher’s exact tests.ResultsThe findings indicate that RRSO rates doubled from 31.4% to 62.6% among patients with gBRCA-PV. The implementation rate was 32.4% among unaffected carriers and 70.3% among BC-affected patients. Younger patients received genetic testing with significantly shorter intervals between BC diagnosis and genetic testing and between genetic testing and RRSO.ConclusionOverall, the insurance coverage for HBOC patients with BC has increased the frequency of RRSO in Japan. However, a comparison between the number of probands and family members indicated that the diagnosis among family members is inadequate. The inequality in the use of genetic services by socioeconomic groups is an issue of further concern.
Intra-arterial nimodipine for the treatment of refractory delayed cerebral ischemia after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Vossen Laura Victoria , Weiss Miriam , Albanna Walid , Conzen-Dilger Catharina , Schulze-Steinen Henna , Rossmann Tobias , Schmidt Tobias Phillip , Höllig Anke , Wiesmann Martin , Clusmann Hans , Schubert Gerrit Alexander , Veldeman Michael 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundDelayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) is one of the main contributors to poor clinical outcome after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Endovascular spasmolysis with intra-arterial nimodipine (IAN) may resolve angiographic vasospasm, but its effect on infarct prevention and clinical outcome is still unclear. We report the effect of IAN on infarction rates and functional outcome in a consecutive series of SAH patients.MethodsTo assess the effectiveness of IAN, we collected functional outcome data of all SAH patients referred to a single tertiary center since its availability (2011–2020). IAN was primarily reserved as a last tier option for DCI refractory to induced hypertension (iHTN). Functional outcome was assessed after 12 months according to the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS, favorable outcome = GOS4-5).ResultsOut of 376 consecutive SAH patients, 186 (49.5%) developed DCI. Thereof, a total of 96 (25.5%) patients remained unresponsive to iHTN and received IAN. DCI-related infarction was observed in 44 (45.8%) of IAN-treated patients with a median infarct volume of 111.6 mL (Q1: 51.6 to Q3: 245.7). Clinical outcome was available for 84 IAN-treated patients. Of those, a total of 40 (47.6%) patients reached a favorable outcome after 1 year. Interventional complications were observed in 9 (9.4%) of the IAN-treated patients.ConclusionIntra-arterial spasmolysis using nimodipine infusion was associated with low treatment specific complications. Despite presenting a subgroup of severely affected SAH patients, almost half of IAN-treated patients were able to lead an independent life after 1 year of follow-up.Trial registration numberGerman Clinical Trial Register DRKS00030505.
Point-of-care testing for sexually transmitted infections and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis among pregnant women in South Africa, 2021–2022: randomised controlled trial
Authors: de Voux Alex , Nyemba Dorothy Chiwoniso , Silliman Miriam , Mashele Nyiko , Mvududu Rufaro , Myer Landon , Joseph Davey Dvora 
Published: December 2023

ObjectivePregnant and postpartum women (PPW) in Southern Africa are at increased risk of acquiring HIV and curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is safe and effective to use during pregnancy to reduce HIV acquisition and vertical transmission. Point-of-care (POC) STI testing can identify PPW at risk of HIV and facilitate risk-differentiated and person-centred counselling to improve PrEP initiation, persistence and adherence. We evaluated the impact of POC STI testing compared with STI syndromic management on PrEP outcomes among PPW in Cape Town, South Africa.MethodsThe STI and PrEP in Pregnancy Study enrolled PPW without HIV and ≤34 weeks pregnant at their regular antenatal care visit with follow-up after 1 month. PPW were randomised to receive POC STI testing or STI syndromic management. PPW randomised to POC STI testing self-collected vaginal swabs forChlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorhoeaeandTrichomonas vaginalis(Cepheid GeneXpert) testing and were offered same-day treatment if diagnosed. We compared PrEP initiation at baseline, PrEP prescription refill at 1 month (persistence) and adherence through tenofovir-diphosphate detection in dried blood spots by randomisation arm. In a secondary analysis, we evaluated the association between an STI diagnosis (positive STI test or reporting STI symptoms) with PrEP outcomes.ResultsWe enrolled and randomised 268 pregnant women. Twenty-eight per cent of women were diagnosed with ≥1 STI. Overall, 65% of women initiated and 79% persisted on PrEP with no significant differences by randomisation arm. Secondary analysis demonstrated that an STI diagnosis (positive STI test or reporting STI symptoms) was associated with higher PrEP initiation (adjusted relative risk=1.28; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.52), controlling for arm, maternal and gestational age.ConclusionsPOC STI testing was not associated with PrEP initiation or persistence relative to syndromic management. However, improving STI diagnosis by supplementing syndromic management with POC STI testing could improve PrEP initiation among PPW.Trial registration numberNCT03902418; Clinical Trials.gov; 1 April 2019.
Impact of sex on severe asthma: a cross-sectional retrospective analysis of UK primary and specialist care
Authors: Loewenthal Lola , Busby John , McDowell Ronald , Brown Thomas , Burhan Hassan , Chaudhuri Rekha , Dennison Paddy , Dodd James William , Doe Simon , Faruqi Shoaib , Gore Robin , Idris Elfatih , Jackson David Joshua , Patel Mitesh , Pantin Thomas , Pavord Ian , Pfeffer Paul E , Price David B , Rupani Hitasha , Siddiqui Salman , Heaney Liam G , Menzies-Gow Andrew 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionAfter puberty, females are more likely to develop asthma and in a more severe form than males. The associations between asthma and sex are complex with multiple intrinsic and external factors.AimTo evaluate the sex differences in the characteristics and treatment of patients with severe asthma (SA) in a real-world setting.MethodsDemographic, clinical and treatment characteristics for patients with SA in the UK Severe Asthma Registry (UKSAR) and Optimum Patient Care Research Database (OPCRD) were retrospectively analysed by sex using univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses adjusted for year, age and hospital/practice.Results3679 (60.9% female) patients from UKSAR and 18 369 patients (67.9% female) from OPCRD with SA were included. Females were more likely to be symptomatic with increased Asthma Control Questionnaire-6 (UKSAR adjusted OR (aOR) 1.14, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.18) and Royal College of Physicians-3 Question scores (OPCRD aOR 1.29, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.47). However, they had a higher forced expiratory volume in 1 second per cent (FEV1%) predicted (UKSAR 68.7% vs 64.8%, p<0.001) with no significant difference in peak expiratory flow. Type 2 biomarkers IgE (UKSAR 129 IU/mL vs 208 IU/mL, p<0.001) and FeNO (UKSAR 36ppb vs 46ppb, p<0.001) were lower in females with no significant difference in blood eosinophils or biological therapy. Females were less likely to be on maintenance oral corticosteroids (UKSAR aOR 0.86, 95% CI 0.75 to 0.99) but more likely to be obese (UKSAR aOR 1.67, 95% CI 145 to 1.93; OPCRD SA aOR 1.46, 95% CI 1.34 to 1.58).ConclusionsFemales had increased symptoms and were more likely to be obese despite higher FEV1% predicted and lower type 2 biomarkers with consistent and clinically important differences across both datasets.
Evaluation of sequential mesotrione application rates and sequential tolpyralate and mesotrione applications for narrow-leaved goldenrod management in lowbush blueberry
Authors: White Scott N. 
Published: December 2023

Sequential mesotrione applications of 72 g a.i. ha−1 gave similar control of narrow-leaved goldenrod as sequential applications of 144 g a.i. ha−1. This use pattern is recommended for narrow-leaved goldenrod management in lowbush blueberry. Early POST tolpyralate applications exhibited good crop tolerance and could be considered as part of a sequential herbicide program for lowbush blueberry.
Cosmological constraints on $$\Lambda (t)$$CDM models
Authors: Macedo H. A. P. , Brito L. S. , Jesus J. F. , Alves M. E. S. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractProblems with the concordance cosmology $$\Lambda $$
Λ
CDM as the cosmological constant problem, coincidence problems and Hubble tension has led to many proposed alternatives, as the $$\Lambda (t)$$

Λ
(
t
)

CDM, where the now called $$\Lambda $$
Λ
cosmological term is allowed to vary due to an interaction with pressureless matter. Here, we analyze one class of these proposals, namely, $$\Lambda =\alpha 'a^{-2}+\beta H^2+\lambda _*$$

Λ
=

α
′

a

-
2

+
β

H
2

+

λ

∗

, based on dimensional arguments. Using SNe Ia, cosmic chronometers data plus constraints on $$H_0$$

H
0

from SH0ES and Planck satellite, we constrain the free parameters of this class of models. By using the Planck prior over $$H_0$$

H
0

, we conclude that the $$\lambda _*$$

λ

∗

term can not be discarded by this analysis, thereby disfavouring models only with the time-variable terms. The SH0ES prior over $$H_0$$

H
0

has an weak evidence in this direction. The subclasses of models with $$\alpha '=0$$

α
′

=
0

and with $$\beta =0$$

β
=
0

can not be discarded by this analysis. Finally, by using distance priors from CMB, the $$\Lambda $$
Λ
time-dependence was quite restricted.
Seroprevalence of Human Brucellosis among Syrian Refugees in Jordan, 2022
Authors: Al-Sanouri Tarek , Khader Yousef , Hailat Ekhlas , Iweir Sereen , Abu Khudair Mohammad , Al Nsour Mohannad 
Published: December 2023

Introduction. Brucellosis is prevalent in Mediterranean countries. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of brucellosis and associated factors among Syrian refugees in Jordan. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among adult Syrian refugees who attended the Public Health Lab (PHL) in Al Mafraq governorate, during the period of May-June 2022 to obtain a health certificate, which is legally required to receive governmental authorization for employment in Jordan. Blood samples were obtained from participants and a serum specimen was tested for the presence of IgG antibodies against Brucella using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) IgG kits (Vircell Microbiologists, Granada, Spain). Results. A total of 1562 Syrian refugees were enrolled in the study. Their ages ranged between 18 and 74 years, with a median age of 30 years at presentation. The majority were males (75.9%, n = 1186) and 24.1% (n = 376) were females. The Brucella ELISA IgG results were positive for 149 persons, with an overall seroprevalence rate of 9.5% (95% confidence interval: 8.0%–11.0%). Having animal-related occupations, residing outside refugee camps, consuming unpasteurized milk, handling animals or their tissues, and slaughtering animals within 6 months of study inclusion were significantly higher among the seropositive group. In the multivariate analysis, IgG-positive persons were 13 times more likely to report being diagnosed with brucellosis (OR = 13.1, 95% CI: 6.1–28.3;

p

≤ 0.001). In addition, they were more likely to reside in the city of Al Mafraq, as opposed to a refugee camp (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1–3.2;

p

= 0.025) and to have handled animals within 6 months of study inclusion (OR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.1–8.9;

p

= 0.035). Conclusions. In conclusion, one-tenth of adult Syrian refugees were tested positive for Brucella ELISA IgG. Being diagnosed with brucellosis, residing in the city of Al Mafraq, as opposed to a refugee camp, and handling animals within 6 months of study inclusion were significantly associated with being positive for Brucella ELISA IgG. This study illustrates the need for improved brucellosis control measures via comprehensive vaccination of animals and enhanced laboratory detection and surveillance capacities, in addition to emphasizing the need for increased awareness sessions among Syrian refugees on the safe use and preparation of dairy products and safety practices of handling animals and their tissues.
Simultaneous Recruitment of New Graduates (SRoNG)
Authors: Heeb Stefan , Yamauchi Mari 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This paper provides a systematic account of simultaneous recruitment of new graduates (SRoNG), the predominant hiring practice of big companies in Japan. The authors characterise SRoNG as macro-level coordination in the process of new graduate recruitment between companies and universities, along with homogeneous hiring conditions offered by individual firms, consisting of same initial salaries, initial internal vocational training, and absence of job specification. The paper further provides a historical account of SRoNG’s emergence, tracing it back to early-modern government structures, education expansion, wage control efforts, and the system’s expansion and establishment as a predominant institution. Finally the paper focuses on SRoNG’s more recent empirical evolution. The main business association, Keidanren, proposed to abandon the practice in the wake of intensified competition with foreign multinationals in the recruitment of new graduates. While there are noteworthy ongoing changes, the authors suggest that SRoNG is unlikely to suffer more than a partial and minor abandonment.
Sociability of ‘Selfishness’ and Individualism in Chinese Modern Thought and Society
Authors: Santangelo Paolo 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The debate on the sociability of self-interest has resonated through diverse cultures and epochs, with particular relevance to the ongoing discourse concerning the resurgence of Confucian thought and the evolution of individuality within contemporary Chinese society. Li Zhi (1527–1602) brings forth a novel perspective with his concept of innate ‘selfishness’. Li’s proposition offers a profound exploration of the human psyche. His reinterpretation of ‘selfishness’ resonates with modern psychological terminology, bearing resemblance to concepts such as ‘self-motivation’ and the ‘flow experience’, in alignment with the economic development and social mobility of the mid-Ming era. However, it also fosters an awareness of interconnectedness with all beings, as epitomized by the concept of oneness. This emerging paradigm of self calls for a comparative analysis with the trajectory of individualism in modern and contemporary China. From a cross-cultural perspective, Li’s proposition grapples with challenges that have perplexed thinkers across diverse civilizations, echoing the discourse in modern Europe regarding the paradox of ‘unsocial sociability’.
Review of the Research on the Belt and Road Initiative in Myanmar
Authors: Chu Ta-Wei , Haenssgen Marco J. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is among the largest transnational development initiatives globally. In this article, we review the research on the BRI in Myanmar, a developing country that is of considerable geopolitical importance. To date, the BRI literature has made three central contributions: it has captured much of the complexity of BRI projects, filled a notable research gap in BRI studies, and raised awareness of local voices. In addition, two analytically meaningful topics are worth exploring, namely the contested relations (1) between China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and prospective Chinese BRI investors and (2) between the Myanmar government and local anti-BRI groups. Responding to the current focus of the literature and to advance future research, we recommend that scholars consider the analytical framework of state transformation to disaggregate statehood, account for diverse actors, and explain their contested relations. Because it challenges state-centric frameworks (e.g., realism and Westphalian national sovereignty), the state-transformation model can yield theoretically and empirically stimulating findings.
Did “The Gnostic Heresy” Influence Valentinus? An Investigation of Irenaeus, Against Heresies 1.11.1 and 1.29
Authors: Litwa M. David 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This article argues (1) that there is insufficient evidence to conclude that a or the “gnostic heresy” (Irenaeus, Against Heresies 1.11.1) referred to a specific social group whose theology is witnessed in Against Heresies 1.29 and (2) that the aeonology in this passage influenced Valentinus. There is no evidence that the aeonology in Against Heresies 1.29 existed prior to 160 CE, the approximate date of Valentinus’s demise; thus this material could not have shaped Valentinus’s theology. Instead of thinking with Irenaeus in terms of unidirectional influence (Irenaeus’s constructed “gnostic heresy” inspiring Valentinus/Valentinians), future theories ought to account for multiple directions of influence and entanglement between various early Christian theologians in the late second century CE.
Effects of black soldier fly larvae meal on production performance, meat quality, antioxidant capacity and serum biochemical indices of squabs
Authors: Ma T.T. , Zhu S.P. , Chen A.L. , Zhong Y.J. , Fu Z.Q. , Deng S. , Huang Y.H. , Fu J. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of dietary black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) on production performance, meat quality (including sensory quality, muscle fiber histological characteristics, chemical composition, and antioxidant capacity of muscle), and serum biochemical indices of 28-day-old squabs, to provide a good reference for the potential use of BSFLM as a functional feed supplement in pigeon production. A total of 192 1-day-old squabs and 96 pairs of 7-month-old breeding pigeons with the same egg production were stochastically divided into 4 groups with 6 paired replicates. Each pair of breeding pigeon with two squabs. The pigeons were fed the diets supplemented with 0 (control group), 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% BSFLM, respectively. The experiment lasted for 28 days. Dietary BSFLM supplementation increased the growth performance, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), serum levels of glutathione peroxidase (GHS-PX), total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD), and glucose (GLU), and reduced the shear force, serum contents of triglyceride, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and activities of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase. Moreover, it improved the meat color, muscle fiber histological characteristics, and fatty acids profile. However, no significant effects were observed on the slaughter performance, pH value, the water-loss, chemical composition, and amino acids profile. In conclusion, dietary BSFLM may improve the growth performance, meat quality, muscle antioxidant capacity, and health status of squabs. The best effects were observed for the 1.0% BSFLM diet.
The Belgian Climate Case: From Federalism Idiosyncrasies to Arboreal Novelties
Authors: De Spiegeleir Antoine 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
VZW Klimaatzaak v Kingdom of Belgium & Others is a climate lawsuit brought in Belgium in 2015. It was modelled on the famous Dutch Urgenda case. In this groundbreaking judicial procedure, over 60,000 plaintiffs argued that Belgian public authorities have undertaken insufficient climate action and called for its enhancement. On June 17, 2021, the Tribunal of First Instance of Brussels rendered its decision in partial favour of the plaintiffs, consolidating a climate ‘duty of care’ for public authorities. This article puts forward a succinct summary of the complaint introduced by the NGO Klimaatzaak and the main findings of the Tribunal. In doing so, it attempts to make the idiosyncrasies of Belgian federalism intelligible to an international audience. It also highlights a number of notable features of the case, including the Tribunal’s reliance on the Aarhus Convention to interpret broadly the provisions on legal standing for environmental NGOs, and a third-party intervention request introduced on behalf of over a hundred trees with long lifespans. Finally, the article focuses on an apparent flaw in the reasoning of the Tribunal in its 2021 judgment and points out what to look out for in the appeal proceedings that are ongoing at the time of writing.