bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

IntroductionThere 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 methodsThis 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).ResultsEvery 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.ConclusionsHigher 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

IntroductionSymptoms, 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 analysisIn 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 disseminationThe 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 numberEudraCT: 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

ObjectivesTo 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).SettingAn online survey was distributed through the trans-LINK Network in Ontario, Canada.Respondents163 of 225 healthcare and social/community service providers completed the survey (72.4% response rate) between November 2022 and February 2023.Main outcome measuresExpertise, training, workplace practices and learning needs related to supporting trans survivors of IPV.MethodQuantitative 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.ResultsMost (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.ConclusionsThe 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

ObjectiveThe 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.DesignCommunity-based, cross-sectional study.SettingThe study was conducted in Gondar Zuria District, Central Gondar Zone. Data collection was conducted from 10 March to 5 April 2022.Participants576 mother–child pairs, recruited via a multistage, stratified random sampling technique.Outcome measures and analysisUtilisation 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.ResultsThe 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.ConclusionLess 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

IntroductionDespite 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 analysisThis 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 disseminationEthical 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 numberThe 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

ObjectivesExamining 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.DesignCross-sectional survey design.SettingTen general grade IIIa (>500 beds) hospitals in southwest China.ParticipantsOverall, 392 early breast cancer survivors and their spousal caregivers (N=392) were recruited from cancer centres in hospitals.Primary and secondary outcome measuresSpouses’ 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.ResultsThe 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).ConclusionsFamily-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.
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

BackgroundImmune 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.MethodsWhole-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.ResultsThe 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.ConclusionsWe 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

ObjectiveAn 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.MethodsThis 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.ResultsWe 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.ConclusionIt 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

IntroductionEngaging 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.MethodsA 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.ResultsTen 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.ConclusionOur 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 evidenceLevel IV.
Positron scattering from krypton and xenon
Authors: Machacek J. R. , McEachran R. P. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
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

AbstractWe 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

AbstractWe 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.