bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Deviations from the universal initial mass function in binary star clusters
Authors: Singh-Bal Sunder S K , Blaylock-Squibbs George A , Parker Richard J , Goodwin Simon P 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT
The stellar mass distribution in star-forming regions, stellar clusters and associations, the initial mass function (IMF), appears to be invariant across different star-forming environments, and is consistent with the IMF observed in the Galactic field. Deviations from the field, or standard, IMF, if genuine, would be considered strong evidence for a different set of physics at play during the formation of stars in the birth region in question. We analyse N-body simulations of the evolution of spatially and kinematically substructured star-forming regions to identify the formation of binary star clusters, where two (sub)clusters which form from the same Giant Molecular Cloud orbit a common centre of mass. We then compare the mass distributions of stars in each of the subclusters and compare them to the standard IMF, which we use to draw the stellar masses in the star-forming region from which the binary cluster(s) form. In each binary cluster that forms, the mass distributions of stars in one subcluster deviates from the standard IMF, and drastically so when we apply similar mass resolution limits as for the observed binary clusters. Therefore, if a binary subcluster is observed to have an unusual IMF, this may simply be the result of dynamical evolution, rather than different physical conditions for star formation in these systems.
Analyzing the Diversity and Impacting Factors of Smoke-Free Legislation and Implementation in Mainland China: A Case Qualitative Research
Authors: Yang Bolu , Wang Ray , Shen Qianqian , Wang Jia , Long Qian 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction
Since the ratification of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in 2005, mainland China has experienced notable delays in implementing the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. This study aims to examine the legislation and implementation of smoke-free laws in different cities in mainland China, with a particular focus on identifying factors that contribute to these differences.

Aims and Methods
Through a literature review and policy mapping, we gathered information on the variations in smoke-free laws’ legislation and implementation across mainland China. To delve deeper into the local specifics of implementation and the factors contributing to these variations, qualitative interviews were conducted with 16 key stakeholders in two selected cities. This group included former policy makers, policy experts, enforcement officers, and public venue owners.

Results
Although the revision of Healthy Cities standards advocates for the enactment of smoking bans post-2021, less than half of these cities have implemented comprehensive smoke-free laws. This phenomenon can be partly attributed to the tobacco industry’s significant influence in the legislative process and to policy makers’ limited understanding of smoking rooms/areas being temporary measures without setting clear end dates for transition periods. We also identified inconsistent implementation across selected cities, attributed to inadequate coordination and workforce shortages.

Conclusions
Our study reveals significant variations and delays in the adoption of smoke-free laws across different cities in mainland China. We identify key factors contributing to this disparity, underscoring the urgent need for targeted measures to address these challenges, such as setting up a coordinated department and promoting policy advocacy.

Implications
This study reveals geographical disparities in the legislative progress and enforcement effectiveness of smoke-free laws in mainland China. Persistent interference from the tobacco industry has obstructed the establishment of comprehensive smoke-free laws. Additionally, policy makers’ limited awareness of the harm caused by designated smoking areas, regional economic disparities, and inadequate interdepartmental coordination have impeded effective policy implementation. These findings underscore the urgent need to set enforcement goals aligned with local economic contexts and strengthen policy dialogue to empower policy makers and stakeholders to mitigate tobacco industry influence and achieve successful implementation.
Favouritism, social pressure, and gender
Authors: Spilker Finn , Deutscher Christian , Ötting Marius , Sonnabend Hendrik 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
We analyse gender differences in response to social pressure. Our setting provides information on decision-making by both female and male referees towards rewarding extra time in football. The exact score at the time of the decision allows us to evaluate how much it favours the home team and, hence, pleases the audience. Controlling for in-game information that affects the length of extra time per game rules, we find that (especially young) female referees are more susceptible to social pressure and reward less extra time when the home team needs the game to end to secure a win. To confirm that social pressure from the audience drives our findings, we demonstrate that female referees tend to favour home teams more in games with high attendance.
The Arabic Oswestry Disability Index as a Unidimensional Measure
Authors: Alnahdi Ali H. 
Published: November 2024

Study Design.
Cross-sectional study.

Objective.
To evaluate the structural validity of the Arabic version of the Oswestry disability index (ODI) in patients with low back pain (LBP).

Summary of Background Data.
The Arabic ODI is currently used in clinical and research settings to assess disability, but questions remain regarding its structural validity.

Materials and Methods.
Adult patients with LBP were recruited from physical therapy departments of two hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Participants completed the Arabic ODI and the numeric pain rating scale. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were conducted to examine the factor structure of the ODI. Maximum likelihood extraction and parallel analysis were used in the EFA, and the goodness-of-fit indices [χ2 statistics, Tucker-Lewis index (TLI), comparative-fit index (CFI), root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), and standardized root mean residual (SRMR)] were assessed in the CFA to confirm the factor structure.

Results.
A total of 113 patients (47.8% male, 52.2% female) participated. The EFA identified a unidimensional structure for the Arabic ODI, with one factor explaining 45.8% of the total variance. All items had significant factor loadings, with loadings ranging from 0.48 (sleeping) to 0.84 (sex life and social life). The CFA confirmed this unidimensional structure, yielding good fit indices [χ2=49.53, P<0.04; TLI=0.96; CFI=0.97; RMSEA=0.06 (90% CI=0.07–0.10), SRMR=0.04]. All ODI items exhibited significant positive loadings consistent with the expected correlation between the single latent variable (LBP-related disability) and the ODI items. A high error covariance was observed between items related to walking and standing.

Conclusion.
The Arabic Oswestry disability index demonstrates sufficient structural validity as a unidimensional measure of disability in Arabic-speaking patients with low back pain. These findings support the continued use of the Oswestry disability index for disability assessment in clinical and research settings and support the validity of using one total score representing the single underlying latent construct.

Level of Evidence.
Level III.
Early assessment of responsive neurostimulation for drug-resistant epilepsy in China: A multicenter, self-controlled study
Authors: Yang Yanfeng , Wei Penghu , Shi Jianwei , Mao Ying , Zhang Jianmin , Lei Ding , Yang Zhiquan , Song Shiwei , Qian Ruobing , Li Wenling , Shan Yongzhi , Zhao Guoguang 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background:
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the first cohort of people in China treated with a responsive neurostimulation system (EpilcureTM, GenLight MedTech, Hangzhou, China) for focal drug-resistant epilepsy in this study.

Methods:
This multicenter, before-and-after self-controlled study was conducted across 8 centers from March 2022 to June 2023, involving patients with drug-resistant epilepsy who were undergoing responsive neurostimulation (RNS). The study was based on an ongoing multi-center, single-blind, randomized controlled study. Efficacy was assessed through metrics including median seizure count, seizure frequency reduction (SFR), and response rate. Multivariable linear regression analysis was conducted to explore the relationships of basic clinical factors and intracranial electrophysiological characteristics with SFR. The postoperative quality of life, cognitive function, depression, and anxiety were evaluated as well.

Results:
The follow-up period for the 19 participants was 10.7 ± 3.4 months. Seizure counts decreased significantly 6 months after device activation, with median SFR of 48% at the 6th month (M6) and 58% at M12 (P <0.05). The average response rate after 13 months of treatment was 42%, with 21% (n = 4) of the participants achieving seizure freedom. Patients who have previously undergone resective surgery appear to achieve better therapeutic outcomes at M11, M12 and M13 (β <0, P <0.05). No statistically significant differences were observed in patients’ scores of quality of life, cognition, depression and anxiety following stimulation when compared to baseline measurements. No serious adverse events related to the devices were observed.

Conclusions:
The preliminary findings suggest that EpilcureTM exhibits promising therapeutic potential in reducing the frequency of epileptic seizures. However, to further validate its efficacy, larger-scale randomized controlled trials are required.

Registration:
Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (No. ChiCTR2200055247)
Patterns of Adherence to Home Blood Pressure Monitoring Among Older Adults With Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Kovell Lara C. , Bothwick Victoria , McCabe Paul , Juraschek Stephen P. , Meng Yuchen , Revoori Ritika , Pena Stephanie , Schoenthaler Antoinette , Adhikari Samrachana , Dodson John A. 
Published: November 2024

Purpose:
Hypertension (HTN) is common and represents a major modifiable risk factor for ischemic heart disease in older adults. While home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) is important in HTN management, patterns of HBPM engagement in older adults undergoing mobile health cardiac rehabilitation (mHealth-CR) are unknown. We aimed to identify patterns of adherence to HBPM in a cohort of older adults undergoing mHealth-CR to optimize HBPM use in the future.

Methods:
We used interim data from the ongoing Rehabilitation using Mobile Health for Older Adults with Ischemic Heart Disease in the Home Setting (RESILIENT) randomized trial, in which intervention arm participants (adults ≥ 65 years with ischemic heart disease) were instructed to monitor blood pressure (BP) at least weekly. Engagement groups were determined by latent class analysis and compared using ANOVA or Chi-Square tests. Longitudinal mixed effect modeling determined the associations between weekly HBPM and baseline covariates including uncontrolled HTN, obesity, diabetes, depression, alcohol, and tobacco use.

Results:
Of the 111 participants, the mean age was 71.9 ± 5.6 years, and 83% had HTN. Over the 12-week study, mean HBPM engagement was 2.3 ± 2.3 d/wk. We observed 3 distinct patterns of engagement: high engagement (22%), gradual decline (10%), and sustained baseline engagement (68%). HBPM adherence decreased in two of the engagement groups over time. Of the covariates tested, only depression was associated with weekly HBPM after adjusting for relevant covariates (OR 9.09, P = .03).

Conclusions:
In this older adult cohort undergoing mHealth-CR, we found three main engagement groups with declining engagement over time in two of the three groups. These patterns can inform future mHealth-CR interventions.
Endothelial Cell Viability of Nonscrolled “Endo-Out” Preloaded Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty Graft
Authors: Ghafarian Sadegh , Abdullayev Eric , DeMarco Karen , Kurz Arthur , Rivero Andy , Koo Ellen H. 
Published: November 2024

Purpose:
The purpose of our paper is to report on the endothelial viability of a preloaded Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) graft that was found to be in a fully opened, nonscrolled configuration in the glass cannula.

Methods:
Case Report.

Results:
The preloaded DMEK graft was found to be in an opened, nonscrolled configuration with the endothelial side facing outward in the micro Weiss glass cannula when the preloaded system was visualized in the operating room. As the opened graft was noted to be in a relatively immobilized state against the cannula wall, the decision was made to decline usage for transplantation and the tissue was returned to the eye bank for further assessment of endothelial viability. The DMEK graft underwent specular microscopy and Trypan Blue staining for cell damage assessment. The results demonstrated viable endothelial cells and the suitability of the DMEK graft for transplantation.

Conclusions:
We herein demonstrate that despite the DMEK graft being in a fully opened, nonscrolled configuration in the preloaded glass cannula, with the endothelial side facing outward, the endothelial cells were found to be viable. The evaluation and assessment of the DMEK graft were determined to be suitable for transplantation. We demonstrate that surgeons may likely accept such grafts with confidence.
Assessing postoperative toric intraocular lens rotation: comparative analysis
Authors: Lisy Marcus , Danzinger Victor , Schranz Markus , Mahnert Nikolaus , Abela-Formanek Claudette , Leydolt Christina , Menapace Rupert , Schartmüller Daniel 
Published: November 2024

Purpose:
To investigate the accuracy of 3 distinct postoperative toric intraocular lens (TIOL) rotational stability measurement methods.

Setting:
Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.

Design:
Single-center, prospective, interventional clinical trial.

Methods:
128 eyes of 81 patients with age-related cataract received a hydrophobic acrylic TIOL Clareon CNW0T3-9. To evaluate rotational stability, 3 distinct assessment methods were used: (Rotix) comparing the TIOL axis at the end of surgery (EoS) with 1 week and 6 months postoperatively using reference vessels at the sclera, (Slitlamp) comparing the intended axis (IA) with the axis at 1 week and 6 months using slitlamp photography using the horizontal axis as a reference, and (Casia) comparing the IA with the axis at 1 week and 6 months using the axis determination tool of a swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomographer (Casia 2).

Results:
Mean absolute rotation from EoS/IA to 6 months differed significantly among Rotix (1.33 ± 1.99 degrees [0.01; 19.80]), Casia (2.88 ± 2.64 degrees [0.00; 19.00]), and Slit-lamp (4.38 ± 3.38 degrees [0.02; 19.38]), as indicated by the Friedman test (χ2 = 71.852, P < .001). Bland-Altman coefficients of repeatability (CoRs) indicated the closest agreement of results between Casia and Rotix, with a CoR of ±3.95 degrees, followed by Slit-lamp and Casia (±6.82 degrees), and finally, between Slit-lamp and Rotix (±7.19 degrees).

Conclusions:
When assessing true TIOL rotational stability, it is imperative to use fixed anatomical landmarks as a reference and establish a baseline at the EoS. When assessing TIOL rotation along the horizontal axis, considering cyclorotation of the eye is crucial and must not be underestimated.
The Mediating Effect of Depression on Perceived Discrimination and Persistent Prescription Opioid Use Among Puerto Rican Adults
Authors: Essien-Aleksi Inyene E. , Zhang Yuan , Koren Ainat , Palacios Natalia , Falcon Luis M. , Tucker Katherine L. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Stress indicators, including perceived discrimination and depression, have been linked with chronic diseases. Studies have also linked persistent prescription opioid use (PPOU) with depression. With increasing numbers of opioid overdose deaths among Hispanics (predominantly Puerto Rican) in Massachusetts, investigating how perceived discrimination and depression affect PPOU is relevant to public health efforts to address the opioid crisis. This study examined the effect of depression on PPOU and whether depression mediated the association between perceived discrimination and PPOU among Puerto Rican adults.

Methods
Data derived from a prospective population-based Boston Puerto Rican Health Study, at baseline and ~2- and ~6-year follow-up, were used to estimate the association between perceived discrimination and PPOU. Baron and Kenny's method was used to examine the potential mediating effect of depression.

Results
A total of 798 Puerto Rican adults (aged 56.5 ± 7.5 years, 72.9% women) participated in the study at all three time points, and 6.5% used prescription opioids persistently. Both depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale score range: 0–60; OR = 1.03, 95% CI [1.00, 1.05], p = .03) and perceived discrimination (yes/no; OR = 2.43, 95% CI [1.28, 4.61], p = .006) were associated with PPOU. Depressive symptomatology partially mediated the effect of perceived discrimination on PPOU, by 10.3%.

Conclusions
Among Puerto Rican adults in Massachusetts, depressive symptomatology partially explained the effects of perceived discrimination on PPOU. Other unidentified factors could play a role in the relationship between perceived discrimination and PPOU. Discussion on the potential risks of PPOU should be considered among underserved populations experiencing chronic pain, discrimination, and depressive symptoms.
Reducing Blood Loss From Phlebotomy in Adult Neurocritical Care Patients: An Evidence-Based Practice Project
Authors: Simonowicz Patricia J. , Bott Kristin , Elwell Joy , Jaffa Matthew N. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Blood loss from phlebotomy is a significant cause of hospital-acquired anemia. Use of small-volume (Pedi) tubes in adult patients reduces blood loss by 40% and does not increase need for repeated labs. Although this practice is evidencebased, it has not been widely implemented. Using Pedi tubes for phlebotomy is a key component of blood management programs to decrease the incidence of hospital-acquired anemia and blood transfusions in the intensive care unit (ICU). Our aim was to implement the use of Pedi tubes for labs in the adult neurocritical care unit to demonstrate feasibility in this population. METHODS: This was a pre-/postintervention quality improvement project. All consecutive patients admitted to the neurocritical care unit from April 10, 2023, to October 10, 2023, aged 18–99 years, were included in the project. During the intervention period from July 10, 2023, to October 10, 2023, Pedi tubes were used for all laboratory draws except admission and crisis labs. A retrospective chart review from April 10 to July 9, 2024, established standard practice for comparison. We recorded hospital and ICU admission, nadir, and discharge hemoglobin, length of stay, number of rejected specimens, number of blood transfusions, discharge disposition, and 30-day readmission for all subjects. RESULTS: Pedi tube use was successfully implemented with significantly less need for repeat laboratory collections in the postintervention cohort (P = .001). Although no difference was noted in hemoglobin levels, there was a decrease in both ICU and hospital length of stay by 1 day in the intervention arm. Fewer transfusions were required in the intervention cohort. CONCLUSIONS: Small-volume tube use for phlebotomy in adult neurocritical care patients is feasible and can lead to decreased blood transfusion need in the ICU.
Financial toxicity in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Kong Hanhan , Li Huanhuan , Liao Yumei , Peng Wujian , Liu Yanqun , Gong Claire , Bai Jinbing , Zhang Liping 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective:
To investigate financial toxicity (FT) and the factors influencing it in patients with chronic kidney disease undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Methods:
A cross-sectional design was used. From August 2023 to December 2023, 148 PD patients were selected for investigation. The selection was conducted using the convenience sampling method across Shenzhen Third People’s Hospital, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, and The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine. Patients’ financial toxicity was assessed using a general demographic questionnaire, laboratory test results, and the Comprehensive Score for financial Toxicity-Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (COST-FACIT). T-tests, ANOVA, Pearson’s chi-squared test and multiple linear regression analysis were used to evaluate the predictors of FT in patients with PD.

Results:
Seventy-nine patients (53.38%) had mild FT, and 61 patients (41.21%) had moderate FT. Age, working status, monthly household income per capita, and PD-related complications were significantly associated with FT in PD patients (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:
There were varying degrees of FT in PD patients. Measuring FT can help medical professionals develop treatment care strategies, reduce the financial burden on patients, and avoid treatment interruption.
PHRENIC NERVE RECONSTRUCTION WITH SHORT-TERM DIAPHRAGM PACING CORRECTS DIAPHRAGM PARALYSIS DUE TO INTRATHORACIC NERVE INJURY
Authors: Kaufman Matthew R. , Bauer Thomas , Sico Jeannine , Jarrahy Reza 
Published: November 2024

Background.
Symptomatic diaphragm paralysis and subsequent pulmonary debilitation has been shown to occur following phrenic nerve injury within the thoracic cavity. In this study, we investigate the effectiveness of intrathoracic reconstruction of the phrenic nerve combined with short-term diaphragm pacing in restoring diaphragm function.

Methods.
A retrospective review of 34 consecutive patients who underwent intrathoracic phrenic nerve reconstruction and diaphragm pacing for symptomatic diaphragm paralysis was performed. Inclusion criteria included confirmation of diaphragm paralysis on chest fluoroscopy, BMI <40, Age <75, and presence of functional motor units on EMG testing. Surgical treatment consisted of intrathoracic phrenic nerve reconstruction with simultaneous implantation of a diaphragm pacemaker.

Results.
34 patients met inclusion criteria, including: 23 males and 11 females with an average age of 46 and average BMI of 28.5 kg/m2. Thirty patients (88%) reported improvement in respiratory function. FVC and FEV1 values improved by 15% (p=0.02) and 14% (p=0.049), respectively. A 375% increase in diaphragm motor amplitude was observed, from 0.04mV to 0.19mV (p=0.02). Radiographic improvement in resting diaphragm position and contraction was demonstrated in 71% of patients. Complications included pacemaker site infection (5%), cardiac arrythmia (5%), and asymptomatic abdominal bulge (3%).

Conclusions.
Intrathoracic phrenic nerve reconstruction with short-term diaphragm pacing is a safe and effective surgical treatment that improves diaphragm function and alleviates symptoms of respiratory insufficiency in patients with diaphragmatic paralysis following intrathoracic phrenic nerve injury. This approach should be considered as part of the treatment algorithm for this patient population.