bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A registry of achondroplasia: a 6-year experience from the Czechia and Slovak Republic
Authors: Pesl Martin , Verescakova Hana , Skutkova Linda , Strenkova Jana , Krejci Pavel 
Published: June 2022

Abstract
Background
Achondroplasia (ACH) is one of the most prevalent genetic forms of short-limbed skeletal dysplasia, caused by gain-of-function mutations in the receptor tyrosine kinase FGFR3. In August 2021, the C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) analog vosoritide was approved for the treatment of ACH. A total of six other inhibitors of FGFR3 signaling are currently undergoing clinical evaluation for ACH. This progress creates an opportunity for children with ACH, who may gain early access to the treatment by entering clinical trials before the closure of their epiphyseal growth plates and cessation of growth. Pathophysiology associated with the ACH, however, demands a long observational period before admission to the interventional trial. Public patient registries can facilitate the process by identification of patients suitable for treatment and collecting the data necessary for the trial entry.

Results
In 2015, we established the prospective ACH registry in the Czechia and the Slovak Republic (http://www.achondroplasia-registry.cz). Patient data is collected through pediatric practitioners and other relevant specialists. After informed consent is given, the data is entered to the online TrialDB system and stored in the Oracle 9i database. The initial cohort included 51 ACH children (average age 8.5 years, range 3 months to 14 years). The frequency of selected neurological, orthopedic, or ORL diagnoses is also recorded. In 2015–2021, a total of 89 measurements of heights, weights, and other parameters were collected. The individual average growth rate was calculated and showed values without exception in the lower decile for the appropriate age. Evidence of paternal age effect was found, with 58.7% of ACH fathers older than the general average paternal age and 43.5% of fathers older by two or more years. One ACH patient had orthopedic limb extension and one patient received growth hormone therapy. Low blood pressure or renal impairment were not found in any patient.

Conclusion
The registry collected the clinical information of 51 pediatric ACH patients during its 6 years of existence, corresponding to ~ 60% of ACH patients living in the Czechia and Slovak Republic. The registry continues to collect ACH patient data with annual frequency to monitor the growth and other parameters in preparation for future therapy.
Immune response to vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and CAR T-cell therapy recipients
Authors: Wu Xi , Wang Lu , Shen Lu , He Lin , Tang Kefu 
Published: June 2022

AbstractRecipients after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) or chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy are at increased risk for unfavorable outcomes after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines remains undetermined in this vulnerable population, we therefore conducted a pooled analysis to evaluate the immune response after vaccination. A total of 46 studies were finally included, comprising 4757 HSCT and 174 CAR-T recipients. Our results indicated that HSCT and CAR-T recipients had an attenuated immune response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination compared with healthy individuals, while time interval between transplant and vaccination, immunosuppressive therapy (IST) and lymphocyte counts at vaccination significantly affected the humoral response in HSCT recipients. In addition, seroconversion was significantly higher in patients with BCMA-based CAR-T than those with CD19-based CAR-T. Thus, an adapted vaccination strategy for HSCT and CAR-T recipients may be required, and further research on the effect of a booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine and the role of cellular response after vaccination is warranted.
Evaluation of the safety and immunogenicity of different COVID-19 vaccine combinations in healthy individuals: study protocol for a randomized, subject-blinded, controlled phase 3 trial [PRIBIVAC]
Authors: Poh Xuan Ying , Lee I. Russel , Lim Clarissa , Teo Jefanie , Rao Suma , Chia Po Ying , Ong Sean W. X. , Lee Tau Hong , Lin Ray J. H. , Ng Lisa F. P. , Ren Ee Chee , Lin Raymond T. P. , Wang Lin-Fa , Renia Laurent , Lye David Chien , Young Barnaby E. 
Published: June 2022

Abstract
Background
Over 2021, COVID-19 vaccination programs worldwide focused on raising population immunity through the primary COVID-19 vaccine series. In Singapore, two mRNA vaccines (BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273) and the inactivated vaccine CoronaVac are currently authorized under the National Vaccination Programme for use as the primary vaccination series. More than 90% of the Singapore population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine as of December 2021. With the demonstration that vaccine effectiveness wanes in the months after vaccination, and the emergence of Omicron which evades host immunity from prior infection and/or vaccination, attention in many countries has shifted to how best to maintain immunity through booster vaccinations.

Methods
The objectives of this phase 3, randomized, subject-blinded, controlled clinical trial are to assess the safety and immunogenicity of heterologous boost COVID-19 vaccine regimens (intervention groups 1–4) compared with a homologous boost regimen (control arm) in up to 600 adult volunteers. As non-mRNA vaccine candidates may enter the study at different time points depending on vaccine availability and local regulatory approval, participants will be randomized at equal probability to the available intervention arms at the time of randomization. Eligible participants will have received two doses of a homologous mRNA vaccine series with BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273 at least 6 months prior to enrolment. Participants will be excluded if they have a history of confirmed SARS or SARS-CoV-2 infection, are immunocompromised, or are pregnant. Participants will be monitored for adverse events and serious adverse events by physical examinations, laboratory tests and self-reporting. Blood samples will be collected at serial time points [pre-vaccination/screening (day − 14 to day 0), day 7, day 28, day 180, day 360 post-vaccination] for assessment of antibody and cellular immune parameters. Primary endpoint is the level of anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike immunoglobulins at day 28 post-booster and will be measured against wildtype SARS-CoV-2 and variants of concern. Comprehensive immune profiling of the humoral and cellular immune response to vaccination will be performed.

Discussion
This study will provide necessary data to understand the quantity, quality, and persistence of the immune response to a homologous and heterologous third booster dose of COVID-19 vaccines. This is an important step in developing COVID-19 vaccination programs beyond the primary series.

Trial registration
ClinicalTrials.govNCT05142319. Registered on 2 Dec 2021.
A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded trial of MRSA throat carriage treatment, with either standard decolonization alone or in combination with oral clindamycin
Authors: Holm Mona Katrine Alberthe , Meiniche Heidi Karin , Pedersen Michael , Eriksen Helle Brander , Westh Henrik , Holzknecht Barbara J. , Bartels Mette Damkjær 
Published: June 2022

Abstract
Background
Staphylococcus aureus is a frequent colonizer of the human skin and mucous membranes but can also cause a variety of serious infections. Antimicrobial resistance is an increasing worldwide challenge and is mainly driven by an overuse of antimicrobials. To avoid the spread of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in Denmark, the Danish Health Authority recommends decolonization treatment of MRSA carriers and their household contacts. Standard decolonization treatment includes chlorhexidine body wash and mupirocin nasal ointment, especially throat carriage is difficult to treat. The broad-spectrum antibiotic, clindamycin, is often added to the decolonization treatment, but there is currently low scientific evidence for this treatment.

Aim
To investigate whether the addition of clindamycin to the standard decolonization treatment increases decolonization success in MRSA throat carriers.

Methods
A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded trial, including patients ≥ 18 years, who tested MRSA positive in the throat after completing one standard decolonization treatment. All carriers included in the trial receive standard decolonization treatment and are randomized to treatment with either placebo or clindamycin capsules for 10 days. We plan to include 40 participants in each of the two treatment arms.

Discussion
Due to the lack of consistent scientific evidence of clindamycin’s effect in MRSA decolonization and the worldwide urgent need to reduce the use of antibiotics, we judged that a 30% increase in the decolonization success rate in carriers treated with clindamycin is appropriate to justify prescribing clindamycin as part of the decolonization treatment of asymptomatic MRSA carriers.

Trial registration
EudraCT number 2019-002631-29
Prediction Aided Tapering In rheumatoid arthritis patients treated with biOlogicals (PATIO): protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Messelink Marianne A. , van der Leeuw Matthijs S. , den Broeder Alfons A. , Tekstra Janneke , van der Goes Marlies C. , Heijstek Marloes W. , Lafeber Floris , Welsing Paco M. J. 
Published: June 2022

Abstract
Background
Biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) are effective in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) but are expensive and increase the risk of infection. Therefore, in patients with a stable low level of disease activity or remission, tapering bDMARDs should be considered. Although tapering does not seem to affect long-term disease control, (short-lived) flares are frequent during the tapering process. We have previously developed and externally validated a dynamic flare prediction model for use as a decision aid during stepwise tapering of bDMARDs to reduce the risk of a flare during this process.

Methods
In this investigator-initiated, multicenter, open-label, randomized (1:1) controlled trial, we will assess the effect of incorporating flare risk predictions into a bDMARD tapering strategy. One hundred sixty RA patients treated with a bDMARD with stable low disease activity will be recruited. In the control group, the bDMARD will be tapered according to “disease activity guided dose optimization” (DGDO). In the intervention group, the bDMARD will be tapered according to a strategy that combines DGDO with the dynamic flare prediction model, where the next bDMARD tapering step is not taken in case of a high risk of flare. Patients will be randomized 1:1 to the control or intervention group. The primary outcome is the number of flares per patient (DAS28-CRP increase > 1.2, or DAS28-CRP increase > 0.6 with a current DAS28-CRP ≥ 2.9) during the 18-month follow-up period. Secondary outcomes include the number of patients with a major flare (flare duration ≥ 12 weeks), bDMARD dose reduction, adverse events, disease activity (DAS28-CRP) and patient-reported outcomes such as quality of life and functional disability. Health Care Utilization and Work Productivity will also be assessed.

Discussion
This will be the first clinical trial to evaluate the benefit of applying a dynamic flare prediction model as a decision aid during bDMARD tapering. Reducing the risk of flaring during tapering may enhance the safety and (cost)effectiveness of bDMARD treatment. Furthermore, this study pioneers the field of implementing predictive algorithms in clinical practice.

Trial registration
Dutch Trial Register number NL9798, registered 18 October 2021, https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/9798. The study has received ethical review board approval (number NL74537.041.20).
Prevalence of non-Plasmodium falciparum species in southern districts of Brazzaville in The Republic of the Congo
Authors: Mbama Ntabi Jacques Dollon , Lissom Abel , Djontu Jean Claude , Diafouka-Kietela Steve , Vouvoungui Christevy , Boumpoutou Reauchelvy Kamal , Mayela Jolivet , Nguiffo-Nguete Daniel , Nkemngo Francis Nongley , Ndo Cyrille , Akoton Romaric , Agonhossou Romuald , Lenga Arsène , Boussougou-Sambe Stravensky Terence , Djogbénou Luc , Wondji Charles , Adegnika Ayola Akim , Borrmann Steffen , Ntoumi Francine 
Published: June 2022

Abstract
Background
Although Plasmodium falciparum infection is largely documented and this parasite is the main target for malaria eradication, other Plasmodium species persist, and these require more attention in Africa. Information on the epidemiological situation of non-P. falciparum species infections is scarce in many countries, including in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (hereafter Republic of the Congo) where malaria is highly endemic. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and distribution of non-P. falciparum species infections in the region south of Brazzaville.

Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted in volunteers living in rural and urban settings during the dry and rainy seasons in 2021. Socio-demographic and clinical parameters were recorded. Plasmodium infection in blood samples was detected by microscopic analysis and nested PCR (sub-microscopic analysis).

Results
Of the 773 participants enrolled in the study, 93.7% were from the rural area, of whom 97% were afebrile. The prevalence of microscopic and sub-microscopic Plasmodium spp. infection was 31.2% and 63.7%, respectively. Microscopic Plasmodium malariae infection was found in 1.3% of participants, while sub-microscopic studies detected a prevalence of 14.9% for P. malariae and 5.3% for Plasmodium ovale. The rate of co-infection of P. malariae or P. ovale with P. falciparum was 8.3% and 2.6%, respectively. Higher rates of sub-microscopic infection were reported for the urban area without seasonal fluctuation. In contrast, non-P. falciparum species infection was more pronounced in the rural area, with the associated risk of the prevalence of sub-microscopic P. malariae infection increasing during the dry season.

Conclusion
There is a need to include non-P. falciparum species in malaria control programs, surveillance measures and eradication strategies in the Republic of the Congo.

Graphical Abstract
Provenance variation and seed sourcing for sessile oak (Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl.) in France
Authors: Girard Quentin , Ducousso Alexis , de Gramont Clothilde Boubée , Louvet Jean Marc , Reynet Patrick , Musch Brigitte , Kremer Antoine 
Published: June 2022

Abstract
Key message
Sessile oak (Quercus petraea (Matt.) Liebl.) provenance variation was assessed in a multisite test based on traits of economic and ecological relevance in France. While climatic drivers generated genetic clines at a range-wide scale, provenance variation in France was mainly shaped by past silvicultural regimes. We developed a multitrait approach to facilitate decision-making for seed sourcing. A set of provenance clusters is proposed, supporting recommendations for plantation programmes.

Context
Among broadleaves, sessile oak (Quercus petraea) is likely to spread in the context of current climate change and is increasingly planted in France. Seed sourcing is of the utmost importance for ensuring plantation success and adaptation. The selection of appropriate seed sources is highly challenging when the future climate conditions of plantation areas are uncertain.

Aims
We aimed at identifying drivers of provenance variation in Q. petraea and to build provenance clusters based on traits of adaptive and economic value, to ultimately support decision-making in seed sourcing.

Methods
We analysed a multisite provenance test established 30 years ago and comprising a large collection of Q. petraea provenances by performing phenotypic assessments of survival, growth, phenology, and stem-quality traits. We analysed climate-trait correlations at a range-wide scale and used multivariate statistics [multivariate mixed models, principal component analysis (PCA)] and classification methods [hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA), K-means method] to generate an overall clustering of french provenances.

Results
Provenance effects were highly significant regardless of the trait considered, whereas interaction effects between provenance and other experimental sources of variation were minor compared to provenance and environmental variance. There was limited variation between provenances collected in the same forest in comparison to origins of different forests. We found sharp temperature-driven genetic clines for growth and phenology-related traits at a range-wide scale. The multitrait classification approach grouped the French provenances into 11 clusters, with the members of each cluster having similar trait values. Overall, the cluster composition of provenances poorly matched the provenance regions identified on ecological grounds, but rather mirrored the silvicultural regimes implemented in the source stands in the past.

Conclusions
Two of the provenance clusters (comprising a total of 34 provenances) were identified as potentially useful sources of reproductive material. We recommend mixing seeds of different provenances from a given cluster to ensure the maintenance of diversity and to enhance adaptability to future climatic conditions.
Contributions and challenges of community pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study
Authors: Durand Claire , Douriez Eric , Chappuis Aude , Poulain Frédérique , Yazdanpanah Yazdan , Lariven Sylvie , Lescure François-Xavier , Peiffer-Smadja Nathan 
Published: June 2022

Abstract
Background
Healthcare services across the world have been deeply impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In primary care, community pharmacists have had an important role in the frontline healthcare response to the pandemic.

Objectives
This study aimed to explore the experiences, contributions and perceived challenges of community pharmacists regarding the provision of healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods
Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with community pharmacists in France. Participants were recruited through a professional organization of pharmacists combined with a snowballing technique. Interviews were transcribed and then analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results
A total of 16 community pharmacists participated in the interviews. Study participants described providing a range of novel services in response to the pandemic on top of continuing their usual services. All participants described providing preventative services to reduce and mitigate the spread of SARS-CoV-2, such as education on hygiene and social distancing, delivery of face masks and hand sanitizer and adjusting pharmacy premises. Most respondents also described being involved in SARS-CoV-2 detection through screening and performing antigen testing in pharmacies. Participants reported being actively involved in COVID-19 vaccination by educating the general public about vaccines, facilitating their distribution to general practitioners as well as administering vaccines. Over half the respondents described rapidly changing guidelines and service users’ anxiety as challenges to the provision of healthcare services during the pandemic.

Conclusions
This study suggests that community pharmacists have significantly contributed to the response to the COVID-19 pandemic by ensuring continuity of pharmaceutical services and providing novel screening, testing and vaccination services. Their roles and responsibilities during the COVID-19 health crisis indicate that they can play an important role in the management of emerging infectious diseases.
Assessing rigid modes of thinking in self-declared abortion ideology: natural language processing insights from an online pilot qualitative study on abortion attitudes
Authors: Valdez Danny , Jozkowski Kristen N. , Haus Katherine , ten Thij Marijn , Crawford Brandon L. , Montenegro María S. , Lo Wen-Juo , Turner Ronna C. , Bollen Johan 
Published: June 2022

AbstractIntroductionAlthough much work has been done on US abortion ideology, less is known relative to the psychological processes that distinguish personal abortion beliefs or how those beliefs are communicated to others. As part of a forthcoming probability-based sampling designed study on US abortion climate, we piloted a study with a controlled sample to determine whether psychological indicators guiding abortion beliefs can be meaningfully extracted from qualitative interviews using natural language processing (NLP) substring matching. Of particular interest to this study is the presence of cognitive distortions—markers of rigid thinking—spoken during interviews and how cognitive distortion frequency may be tied to rigid, or firm, abortion beliefs.MethodsWe ran qualitative interview transcripts against two lexicons. The first lexicon, the cognitive distortion schemata (CDS), was applied to identify cognitive distortion n-grams (a series of words) embedded within the qualitative interviews. The second lexicon, the Linguistic Inquiry Word Count (LIWC), was applied to extract other psychological indicators, including the degrees of (1) analytic thinking, (2) emotional reasoning, (3) authenticity, and (4) clout.ResultsPeople with polarized abortion views (i.e., strongly supportive of or opposed to abortion) had the highest observed usage of CDS n-grams, scored highest on authenticity, and lowest on analytic thinking. By contrast, people with moderate or uncertain abortion views (i.e., people holding more complex or nuanced views of abortion) spoke with the least CDS n-grams and scored slightly higher on analytic thinking.Discussion and conclusionOur findings suggest people communicate about abortion differently depending on their personal abortion ideology. Those with strong abortion views may be more likely to communicate with authoritative words and patterns of words indicative of cognitive distortions—or limited complexity in belief systems. Those with moderate views are more likely to speak in conflicting terms and patterns of words that are flexible and open to change—or high complexity in belief systems. These findings suggest it is possible to extract psychological indicators with NLP from qualitative interviews about abortion. Findings from this study will help refine our protocol ahead of full-study launch.