bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Recent Rise in Homicide: An Analysis of Weekly Mortality Data, United States, 2018–2022
Authors: Degli Esposti Michelle , Schell Terry L. , Smart Rosanna 
Published: December 2024

Background:
From 2019 to 2020, homicide showed its largest single-year increase in modern US history. While many have cited the COVID-19 pandemic or the police killing of George Floyd as initiating the rise, there has been limited systematic investigation of how the timing of the increase corresponded with these key events. We investigated trends in firearm and nonfirearm homicide across sociodemographic and geographic groups to clarify the timing and nature of the recent increase.

Methods:
We conducted a descriptive epidemiologic study using the National Vital Statistics System weekly mortality data from January 2018 to December 2022 in the United States. We seasonally adjusted and smoothed weekly firearm and nonfirearm homicide data, quantifying changes in relation to key event dates for the COVID-19 pandemic, the killing of George Floyd, and the 2020 national election. We disaggregated trends by sociodemographic and geographic characteristics.

Results:
Between January 2018 and December 2022, firearm homicide increased by 54% while nonfirearm homicide was stable. The increase in firearm homicide started in October 2019 and stabilized by November 2020; 28% of the eventual increase had already occurred by the time COVID-19 was declared a national emergency. All sociodemographic and geographic groups experienced large recent increases in firearm homicide.

Conclusions:
The magnitude and timing of the recent increase in homicide have been previously understated and obscured by crude data and seasonal patterns. Existing theories, including the COVID-19 pandemic, fall short in explaining the historic surge, which is specific to firearm homicide, started in late 2019, and affected all persons and places across the United States.
Preliminary Determination of the Therapeutic Reference Range of Lurasidone in Chinese Patients and Analysis of the Factors Influencing Lurasidone Dose-Corrected Concentrations
Authors: Yang Ye , Wang Zhanzhang , Xiao Tao , Ni Xiaojia , Song Emei , Dai Lijing , Chen Yuqing , Lu Haoyang , Shang Dewei , Wen Yuguan 
Published: December 2024

Background:
The aim of this study was to determine the therapeutic reference range of lurasidone, and to analyze the factors influencing the dose-corrected concentration of lurasidone in Chinese psychiatric patients, thereby providing a basis for the development of individualized dosing of lurasidone.

Methods:
A retrospective analysis was conducted for hospitalized patients who had received lurasidone and undergone blood concentration monitoring from May 2022 to September 2023 at the Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University. Analyses were based on patient demographic data, treatment regimens, and administered drug concentrations.

Results:
Data for a total of 123 lurasidone steady-state trough concentrations were collected from 120 hospitalized patients. It was found that 85.56% of lurasidone steady-state trough concentrations were below the lower limit of the lurasidone therapeutic reference range (15 ng·mL−
1), and that the median steady-state trough concentration was 7.09 ng·mL−1 (IQ1–IQ3 = 4.12–11.82 ng·mL−1). Gender, age, and co-medication with valproic acid were found to be significant factors influencing lurasidone steady-state trough concentration/daily dose (C/D) values. C/D values for females were 14% higher than those obtained for males. Among patients who did not receive concomitant administration of valproic acid, the C/D values were 55% higher than those who had received co-administered valproic acid. Furthermore, C/D values obtained for elderly patients (≥60 years) were 140% higher than those recorded for adolescents (<18 years) and 157% higher than those in younger adults (18–60 years).

Conclusions:
The findings of this study indicated that the guideline-recommended therapeutic reference range (15–40 ng·mL−1) for lurasidone may not be appropriate, at least for the Chinese population. More extensive therapeutic drug monitoring is recommended for elderly female patients and those receiving co-medication with lurasidone and valproic acid.
Personalizing Quality Improvement: Addressing Anticoagulation Gaps in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Owen Gary D. , Terry Christopher J. , Neal Erin B. , Nelson Scott D. , Omar Mohamed , Pettapiece-Phillips Mariah J. , Kripalani Sunil 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
Risk of stroke is greater in patients with atrial fibrillation. Anticoagulation is effective at decreasing risk, yet 40–50% of eligible patients are not prescribed anticoagulation and seem to have a concerning gap in care quality. This quality improvement initiative implemented a pharmacist-led approach to identify, verify, and close apparent anticoagulation treatment gaps.

Methods:
We included adult primary care patients with diagnosis of atrial fibrillation; congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥75 years (doubled), diabetes, stroke/transient ischemic attack (doubled), vascular disease, age 65–74 years, and sex (female) (CHA2DS2-VASc) score of at least 2, and no current anticoagulant use. We identified patients using claims and electronic health record data and evaluated explanations through chart review and provider contact. A provider outreach protocol was developed and implemented to address opportunities for anticoagulation.

Results:
Of 242 patients with an apparent gap, 84% had a verified treatment gap. However, 86% of verified treatment gaps were explained through pharmacist chart review and outreach to providers, and they did not require further action. Explanations included spontaneous resolution of atrial fibrillation, patient declining treatment, completion of a procedure to correct atrial fibrillation or mitigate stroke risk, and high bleeding risk.

Conclusions:
Relying solely on claims- and electronic health record-based algorithms may substantially overestimate gaps in care quality.
Cholesterol metabolism and tumor radiotherapy
Authors: Kuang Hao , Lyu Jia-Hua , Li Tao 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Cholesterol is a lipid that is an essential component of the membrane structure in mammals. Cholesterol homeostasis regulates vital activities of individual cells and governs the overall function of the mammalian body. Cholesterol is mainly obtained through the biosynthesis of endogenous cholesterol and the intake of exogenous cholesterol. Cholesterol metabolism in tumor cells is abnormally active, and cholesterol and its metabolites (precursors and derivatives) play important roles in cancer proliferation, survival, invasion, metastasis, and the resistance to radiation. Preclinical studies have indicated that blocking cholesterol synthesis and uptake can reduce tumor progression and improve the response to anticancer treatment. Therapeutic strategies that target cholesterol synthesis, reduce plasma cholesterol levels, and prevent cholesterol esterification represent promising ways to improve the clinical outcome of cancer patients.
Cancer nutrition research in China from 2013 to 2022: A bibliometric and visualization analysis
Authors: Zhang Chu-Ying , Zhang Ge-Ge , Wu Tian-Tian , Fida Saba , Zhou Ming-Ming , Song Chun-Hua 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Although cancer is a global concern, China has the highest incidence and mortality rates for malignant tumors. The main goals of the present study were to gain a deeper understanding of the current limitations and focal points in the field of cancer nutrition research, to identify potential areas for further investigation, and to provide a valuable reference for Chinese researchers who are interested in studying “cancer nutrition.”

Methods
The Web of Science Core Collection was searched for literature published from 2013 to 2022. The R Language 4.3.1, VOSviewer 1.6.19, and CiteSpace 6.2.2 software programs were adopted to conduct the analysis.

Results
Based on the specified inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 3,994 documents were gathered. The annual issuance of articles exhibited a fluctuating increase. These documents were authored by 19,577 individuals affiliated with 2,961 institutions and were published in 1,008 journals. The most productive authors in this field were Han-Ping Shi, Qi Zhang, and Wei Li. The most productive institutions were Sun Yat-sen University and Sichuan University. A total of 1,008 journals contributed to this field, and the journals with the most relevant publications were Frontiers in Nutrition and Frontiers in Oncology. The most frequently occurring author keywords were prognosis, gastric cancer, sarcopenia, cancer, and meta-analysis. Oncology was the hottest research area.

Conclusions
Cancer nutrition research is a crucial area of study that has significant implications for human health as well as social and economic progress. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the current status and emerging trends in cancer nutrition research in China based on studies published from 2013 to 2022. The research findings presented in this study lay the foundation for further development in this research field. In addition to the traditional research on cancer nutrition, the development of interdisciplinary research should be promoted.
The Role of Social Network on Social Isolation and Anxiety on Attentional Switching of Students
Authors: Zhu Jiawu 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The study is devoted to the study of the relationship between stress caused in students by social isolation and the ability to switch tasks as one of the basic functions of attention. The study draws on the theoretical background of The Attentional Control Theory as the most appropriate method to study the factors influencing attention control under the influence of the effects of stress. The experiment includes a sample of 76 Chinese university students who experienced forced social isolation for 6 months. A statistically significant increase in physiological markers of stress was found in both cases, indicating that social isolation leads to an accumulation of stress and an increase in the intensity of stress reactions when students reexperience social stress after isolation. The practical significance lies in changing the approach to coping with the results of social isolation stress in students through changing the method of presenting educational information.
The effect of transient increase in intraocular pressure on subfoveal choroidal thickness
Authors: Niyazmand Hamed , Jeyakumar Vibu , Feng Ian , Jansen Lisa , Mahindra Anson , Menage Amy , Alam Khyber 
Published: December 2024

SIGNIFICANCE
Myopia prevalence has increased over the last few decades. Studies have documented that the choroid is considered an important biomarker in myopia development. As myopia and choroidal thinning are associated with increased glaucoma risk, understanding the role of the choroid in myopia and glaucoma is imperative.

PURPOSE
This study investigates the effect of transiently elevated intraocular pressure on axial length, subfoveal choroidal thickness, and central retinal thickness in emmetropes, low myopes, and high myopes.

METHODS
This study involved 29 young adults (23 ± 1 years), including 10 emmetropes (−0.50 D < SE < +0.50 D), 10 low myopes (−6.00 D < SE ≤ −0.50 D), and 9 high myopes (SE ≤ −6.00 D). Participants were fitted with modified swimming goggles for 5 minutes to transiently change intraocular pressure. Noncontact tonometry, optical biometry, and optical coherence tomography were used to measure intraocular pressure, axial length, central retinal thickness, and subfoveal choroidal thickness, respectively. Measurements were taken at before, during goggle wear, immediately after, and 3 minutes after goggles removal. Repeated-measures analysis of variance with Bonferroni adjustment was used to assess the effect of transiently changed intraocular pressure and to elucidate any differences between refractive groups in response to the intraocular pressure change.

RESULTS
Intraocular pressure increased by 1.7 ± 2.1 mmHg (p=0.002) from baseline, accompanied by axial elongation of 14 ± 21 μm (p = 0.012) and subfoveal choroidal thinning of 13 ± 15 μm (p=0.01). However, central retinal thickness did not change significantly (p>0.05). Most of the changes in the axial length were due to changes in the choroidal thickness. Observed changes returned to baseline immediately following goggles removal. There was no significant difference between refractive error groups' changes associated with the transient increase in intraocular pressure (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS
Transiently increased intraocular pressure caused temporary axial elongation and subfoveal choroidal thinning, with no significant differences between refractive groups. Further studies are required to assess the impact of long-term increased intraocular pressure on ocular components.
Randomized clinical trial: MGrx versus standard debridement and expression for meibomian gland dysfunction
Authors: Semp David A. , Dutta Debarun , Wolffsohn James S. 
Published: December 2024

SIGNIFICANCE
Evaporative dry eye disease, due to meibomian gland dysfunction, causes significant suffering for millions of people globally, yet satisfactory long-term treatment remains elusive for many. Investigation of potential therapies for meibomian gland dysfunction is therefore of high importance to clinicians and their patients.

PURPOSE
This study aimed to compare the efficacy of a new device for meibomian gland debridement and expression to that of the conventional way of providing this treatment.

METHODS
Thirty participants (mean age, 36.4 ± 15.4 years; 77% female) fulfilling current Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society diagnostic criteria for dry eye disease and meibomian gland dysfunction were recruited (Research Registry, 10340). Fifteen participants each were randomized to receive a single treatment with either traditional debridement (using a golf-club spud), heating (10 minutes of Blepha EyeBag, Théa Laboratories, Clermont-Ferrand, France) and expression (with forceps), or the multimodal MGrx, which comprises a handheld device with heated debridement, massage, and expression attachments. Symptomatology, tear film, and ocular surface measures were assessed at baseline and at 4 and 8 weeks post-treatment.

RESULTS
Ocular Surface Disease Index, 5-Item Dry Eye Questionnaire, and Symptom Assessment in Dry Eye symptom questionnaire scores all improved significantly with both treatments (all p<0.001), with no subsequent deterioration for at least 8 weeks. The improvement was similar between treatment groups (all p>0.05). Clinical signs, of blink rate, tear film quality and quantity, ocular surface characteristics, and meibomian gland expressibility, were all unchanged with both treatments (all p>0.05) except for noninvasive tear breakup time, which deteriorated in the conventional treatment group (p=0.006) between 4 and 8 weeks post-treatment. No adverse reactions were reported, and all participants were able to tolerate treatment.

CONCLUSIONS
A single application of meibomian gland debridement and expression resulted in sustained improvements in the symptoms of dry eye disease, in both treatment groups. The MGrx device provides a safe and effective in-office treatment for evaporative dry eye disease, and has time and space advantages compared with conventional treatment.
Self-reported Dizziness, Postural Stability, and Sensory Integration After Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Chang Pao-Lung , Chen Kai-Yun , Ou Ju-Chi , Chiang Yung-Hsiao , Chen Hung-Chou , Liou Tsan-Hon , Escorpizo Reuben , Lin Li-Fong 
Published: December 2024

Objective
The aim of the study is to evaluate changes in dizziness, postural stability, and sensory integration after mild traumatic brain injury over a 12-wk period.

Methods
One hundred adults with mild traumatic brain injury were analyzed. The Dizziness Handicap Inventory questionnaire was used for subjective evaluations. Postural stability and modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance were used as objective measures at 0, 6, and 12 wks after mild traumatic brain injury.

Design
Observational follow-up study.

Results
Dizziness Handicap Inventory scores decreased significantly over time, indicating improved functional, emotional, physical, and overall aspects. Most indices of postural stability and modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance decreased significantly over time. The postural stability indices (overall and anteroposterior) and the modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance indices (eyes open on firm and foam surfaces) differed significantly between weeks 0 and 6, according to post hoc analysis. Furthermore, the modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance indices of eyes open on firm and foam surfaces and eyes closed on foam surface demonstrated significant differences between weeks 0 and 12.

Conclusions
Subjective and objective measurements indicated improvements in included adults from 0 wks to 6 and 12 wks after mild traumatic brain injury. However, balance dysfunction and sensory integration issues may persist beyond 12 wks after mild traumatic brain injury. The findings highlight the need for longer follow-up and tailored rehabilitation programs.
Dual-Time Point 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT Improves Tumor Delineation and Cervical Lymph Node Metastasis Identification in Patients With Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Jiang Yaqun , Huang Shuo , Tian Yueli , Xing Diankui , Xiao Zhiwei , Huang Jianying , He Yong 
Published: December 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the benefit of dual-time point 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT in staging head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Patients and Methods
Sixty-nine treatment-naive patients with HNSCC were enrolled. Each patient underwent whole-body 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT at approximately 30 minutes postinjection and a delayed scan in head and neck region at 2 hours. Radiotracer uptake (SUVmax), tumor-to-background ratio, change in SUVmax (∆SUVmax), retention index, diagnostic performance, and staging were explored. Histopathology was the reference standard.

Results
Primary tumors showed similar average SUVmax between early (17.89) and delayed scans (17.86, P = 0.241). However, the tumor-to-background ratios of delayed imaging were all significantly higher than those of early imaging (all P < 0.001). In 38 patients who underwent neck dissection, metastatic lymph nodes showed higher mean SUVmax on delayed imaging than on early imaging (early 10.53 ± 5.98 vs delayed 11.71 ± 6.36, P < 0.001), whereas nonmetastatic lymph nodes showed the opposite result (early 3.51 ± 0.51 vs delayed 2.58 ± 0.63, P = 0.002). The mean ∆SUVmax and retention index of metastatic and nonmetastatic lymph nodes were 1.19 versus −0.93 and 12.79% versus −26.55%, respectively. N staging was correctly altered in 3 (3/38) patients based on delayed images.

Conclusions
Delayed 68Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT can effectively acquire high-contrast images, better tumor delineation, and detect hidden lesions near or within the tissues influenced by physiological uptake for HNSCC. In addition, dual-time point imaging adds diagnostic value for the differentiation of metastatic from nonmetastatic lymph nodes.
A Rare Case of High-Grade Fetal Adenocarcinoma of the Lung Demonstrated by 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Xu Ling , Nan Yule , Wu Jingbo , Dong Aisheng , Lu Tong 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
An 85-year-old non-smoking woman with right back pain for 1 month underwent a chest CT, which showed a mass with a maximum diameter of 12.2 cm in the upper lobe of right lung. The lesion demonstrated heterogeneous uptake on FDG PET scanning. The final pathology of the lung mass was a high-grade fetal adenocarcinoma of the lung, which was a rare histological form of malignant lung neoplasm. This case revealed the glucose avidity of the rare lung cancer.
Improving Electroencephalography Screening via an Online Module for Neurology Trainees: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Lemus Hernan Nicolas , Gutierrez Camilo , Fields Madeline , Ziemba Kristine , Landazuri Patrick , Shanker Vicki , Acosta Daniela Riveros , McCarthy Louise , Jadeja Neville , Bothwell Mia , Nagaraja Adithya , Patino Gustavo A. , Karakis Ioannis , Milligan Tracey A. , Tobochnik Steven 
Published: December 2024

Purpose:
To investigate the utility of a 15-minute online module to improve the self-confidence and knowledge of neurology trainees when screening an EEG.

Methods:
We developed a fast, convenient, and accessible 15-minute online module to teach basic concepts of EEG screening using a five-step approach. To assess the efficacy of the module among neurology trainees, three surveys were developed. The EEG module and surveys were distributed to neurology trainees at multiple institutions in the United States. Associations between continuous variables were evaluated using t-test and ANOVA test.

Results:
A total of 199 residents from 7 different adult neurology residency programs participated in the study. We obtained a response rate of 38% (76/199) for EEG survey 1 and 25% (49/199) for the demographic survey, among junior and senior residents; 22 senior residents completed EEG survey 2. The online EEG module improved confidence when interpreting an EEG among junior residents (1.67 vs. 2.56, p < 0.0001). Senior residents improved their EEG survey score after completing the online module (53.9 vs. 68.6%, p < 0.001). Most of the trainees would recommend the online module to other trainees (93.9%) and would consider including it in an introductory course (93.9%).

Conclusions:
A brief and accessible online EEG module was easily implemented as an early introduction to EEG screening for junior neurology trainees and to improve EEG screening skills for senior trainees. These findings clarify specific areas where EEG learning may be optimized and reinforce the importance of implementing innovative curricula that are accessible and efficient for all neurology trainees.