bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Property Crimes and the Marginally Employed
Authors: Thompson Alexi , Jozefowicz James J. 
Published: October 2024

This paper studies the relationship between unemployment and property crime rates for the United States using aggregate data from 1993 to 2022. Given the mixed results of previous studies, we construct a new unemployment rate: the difference between U-6 and U-3 unemployment rates. The U-6 unemployment measure includes marginally employed and underemployed workers as unemployed, differing from the U-3 unemployment measure which includes these individuals as employed. As such, our measure isolates the number of discouraged, underemployed and marginally employed individuals. We argue that this group is the appropriate population for whom the marginal benefit of property crimes may exceed marginal costs, relative to unemployed individuals according to the U-3 unemployment rate definition. The results of our double-difference error correction model confirm our hypothesis. We find a positive relationship between unemployment and total property crime rates, theft rates and burglary rates in the short and long run. Policy implications are discussed. JEL Code: C33, J69, Z10
Expression and prognostic value of CDK1, CCNA2, and CCNB1 gene clusters in human breast cancer
Authors: Xing Zeyu , Wang Xin , Liu Jiaqi , Zhang Menglu , Feng Kexin , Wang Xiang 
Published: October 2024

Objective Cell cycle-associated proteins play important roles in breast cancer (BRCA), based on evidence from cell lines, preclinical murine models, and human tissue samples. Methods Herein, we used the Onomine, GEPIA, Kaplan–Meier Plotter, and cBioPortal databases to examine transcriptional and survival data pertaining to cyclin-associated gene clusters ( CDK1, CCNA2, and CCNB1) in BRCA patients. Results CDK1, CCNA2, and CCNB1 gene expression levels were higher in BRCA compared with control tissue samples and were correlated with more-advanced tumor stage. Kaplan–Meier survival analyses confirmed that elevated CDK1, CCNA2, and CCNB1 expression levels were associated with overall and post-progression survival and recurrence-free probability rates in patients with BRCA. Conclusion The results of this study implied that CDK1, CCNA2, and CCNB1 gene clusters may provide potential therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers in patients with BRCA.
Risk factors for esophagojejunal anastomotic leakage after curative total gastrectomy combined with D2 lymph node dissection for gastric cancer
Authors: Xing Jiadi , Liu Maoxing , Qi Xinyu , Yu Jianhong , Fan Yingcong , Xu Kai , Gao Pin , Tan Fei , Yao Zhendan , Zhang Nan , Yang Hong , Zhang Chenghai , Cui Ming , Su Xiangqian 
Published: October 2024

Objective To explore the risk factors associated with esophagojejunal anastomotic leakage (EJAL) after curative total gastrectomy combined with D2 lymph node dissection for gastric cancer. Methods We reviewed the data for 390 consecutive patients undergoing Roux-en-Y esophagojejunostomy reconstruction after total gastrectomy. Multivariate analysis was performed using a logistic regression model to identify the independent risk factors for EJAL. Results Of the 390 patients enrolled in this study, EJAL occurred in 10 patients (2.6%), and one patient (1/10) with EJAL died. Univariate analysis identified age, alcohol consumption, pulmonary insufficiency, and intraoperative blood loss as risk factors for EJAL. Of these four risk factors, age and alcohol consumption were retained as independent risk factors by multivariate analysis. Conclusion Surgeons should be very careful regarding anastomotic leakage after esophagojejunal anastomosis, perioperatively, especially in patients with advanced age and a history of alcohol consumption. Pulmonary insufficiency and intraoperative blood loss, although not identified as independent risk factors, should also be considered.
Comparison of Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises, Volume, and Flow-Oriented Incentive Spirometry on Respiratory Function in Stroke Subjects: A Non-randomized Study
Authors: Shetty Natasha , Samuel Stephen Rajan , Alaparthi Gopala Krishna , Amaravadi Sampath Kumar , Joshua Abraham M , Pai Shivanand 
Published: October 2024

Abstract Background: Reduced respiratory muscle strength leads to reduced pulmonary function, chest wall movements in the affected side, and increased chest infections, which thereby reduces oxygenation and ventilation. Respiratory muscle training can be used in acute stroke subjects to increase their pulmonary function. Purpose: To compare the short-term effects of diaphragmatic breathing exercise, flow, and volume-oriented incentive spirometry on respiratory function following stroke. Methods: A non-randomized hospital-based study was conducted at Kasturba Medical College Hospitals, Mangalore, India. Forty-two sub-acute subjects of either gender, with the first episode of stroke within six months, were assigned to three groups by the consultant, i.e., diaphragmatic breathing group (DBE), Flow oriented-incentive spirometry group (FIS), and volume oriented-incentive spirometry group (VIS; N = 14) each. All subjects received intervention thrice daily, along with conventional stroke rehabilitation protocols throughout the study period. Pre- and post-intervention values were taken on alternate days until day 5 for all the three groups. Results: The pulmonary function and maximal respiratory pressures were found to be significantly increased by the end of intervention in all three groups, but FIS and DBE groups had better results than VIS (FVC = FIS group, 13.71%; VIS group, 14.89%; DBE group, 21.27%, FEV1 = FIS group, 25.97%; VIS group, 22.52%; DBE group, 19.38%, PEFR = FIS group, 38.76%; VIS group,9.75%; DBE group, 33.16%, MIP = FIS group, 28.23%; VIS group, 19.36%; DBE group, 52.14%, MEP = FIS group, 43.00%; VIS group, 22.80%; DBE group, 28.68%). Conclusion: Even though all interventions had positive outcomes in all variables, flow incentive spirometry had better results across all outcomes (pulmonary function and maximal respiratory pressures) when compared to the other two interventions making it a valuable tool for stroke rehabilitation.
Tolerability Assessment of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Patients With Solid Tumor Malignancies and Hypoalbuminemia
Authors: Sadrameli Sarvnaz , Bringgold Sydney , Dow-Hillgartner Elizabeth 
Published: October 2024

Background: Hypoalbuminemia is common in patients with advanced solid tumor malignancies. However, despite the increased use of highly protein-bound tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in cancer treatments, the tolerability of these agents in patients with hypoalbuminemia is not fully known. Objective: Our aim is to assess whether patients on oral TKIs with hypoalbuminemia are at higher risk for experiencing medication-related adverse events, therefore requiring careful considerations. Methods: This is a single-center, retrospective study including patients ≥18 years of age with a solid tumor malignancy who had taken at least one dose of oral TKIs with a protein binding of ≥90% between June 1, 2016, and June 1, 2021. The primary outcome was to compare time to TKI discontinuation due to adverse events between patients with and without hypoalbuminemia. Key secondary outcomes include TKI discontinuation and dose reduction rates, time to TKI dose reduction, and severity of adverse events. Results: Out of 282 included patients, 134 (48%) patients had hypoalbuminemia and 148 (52%) had normal albumin levels. Compared with patients without hypoalbuminemia, patients with hypoalbuminemia had shorter median time on treatment at 2.8 months (95% CI = 2.3-4.5 months) versus 4.3 months (95% CI = 2.8-6.4 months; P = 0.003). In patients who had TKI discontinuation, dose reduction was associated with longer time on treatment in patients in the normal albumin group compared with patients in the hypoalbuminemia group or patients without dose reduction ( P < 0.0001). Patients in the hypoalbuminemia group experienced significantly more grade 3/4 adverse events compared with those in the normal albumin group (73% vs 27%, P < 0.0001). Conclusion and Relevance: Hypoalbuminemia is a risk factor for both shorter time on treatment and more severe adverse events in patients with solid tumor malignancies taking highly protein-bound oral TKIs. This study highlights the need for closer monitoring of this patient population by health care providers.
Prognostic Value of Pre-Chemoradiotherapy Pan-Immune-Inflammation Value (PIV) in Locally Advanced Nasopharyngeal Cancers
Authors: Topkan Erkan , Selek Ugur , Ozturk Duriye , Şenyürek Şükran , Kılıç Durankuş Nilüfer 
Published: October 2024

Background To examine the prognostic relevance of pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV) in locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinomas (LA-NPC) patients treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) definitively. Methods We used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to determine an optimal PIV cutoff that could effectively divide the patient cohort into two distinct groups based on distant metastasis-free (DMFS) and overall survival (OS) results. For this purpose, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was employed. Our primary and secondary endpoints were to investigate the potential correlations between pre-CCRT PIV measurements and post-CCRT OS and DMFS outcomes, respectively. Results This retrospective cohort study included 179 LA-NPC patients. The optimal PIV cutoff was 512 (area under the curve: 74.0%; sensitivity: 70.8%, specificity: 68.6%; J-index: 0.394) in ROC curve analysis, creating two patient groups: Group-1: PIV < 512 (N = 108); vs Group-2: PIV ≥ 512 (N = 71). In the comparative analysis, although there were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the patient, disease, and treatment characteristics, the PIV ≥ 512 group had significantly poorer median OS [74.0 months vs not reached yet (NR); HR: 2.81; P < 0.001] and DMFS (27.0 months vs NR; HR: 3.23; P < 0.001) than the PIV < 512 group. Apart from PIV ≥ 512, the N2-3 nodal stage and ≥ 5% weight loss within the preceding 6 months were significant predictors of unfavorable outcomes for DMFS ( P < 0.05 for each) and OS ( P < 0.05 for each) in univariate analyses. The results of the multivariate analysis showed that each of the three variables had independent negative impacts on both DMFS and OS outcomes ( P < 0.05 for each). Conclusions The present findings indicate that PIV, which classifies these patients into two groups with significantly different DMFS and OS, might be a potent prognostic biological marker for LA-NPC patients.
Acceptability and feasibility of a group-based intervention to improve outcomes for children at risk for developmental delays in Kenya: A piloted randomized trial
Authors: McHenry Megan S , Alex Brianna , Roose Anna , Raciti Catherine , Oyungu Eren , Ombitsa Ananda R , Cherop Cleophas , Kaniaru Beatrice , Cherop Carolyne , John Chandy C , Vreeman Rachel C 
Published: October 2024

The Care for Child Development (CCD) program may improve child development outcomes in resource-limited settings, but has not yet been adapted to group-based settings to facilitate sustainable dissemination. In this study, we determined the acceptability and feasibility of a group-based CCD program, with evaluation of program outcomes for child development, home environment, and symptoms of maternal depression as secondary outcomes. We evaluated this adapted program using a 2 × 2 crossover-designed pilot study administered over 10 bi-weekly sessions. Acceptability and feasibility were assessed through focus group discussions using qualitative methods. Child development, home observations, and symptoms of maternal depression were evaluated at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months and assessed quantitatively. Twenty-six mother-child dyads participated. Overall, they perceived CCD as acceptable and feasible, and especially beneficial within its group-based format. Although there were no measured improvements in child development, improvements in stimulating home environments (mean difference 2.5, 95% C.I. [0.37, 4.72]) were found. Further scale-up of this intervention is needed to determine effectiveness.
Adjunctive venous sinus stenting in transvenous embolization of vein of Galen malformations
Authors: Devarajan Alex , Goldman Daryl , Bonet Jessica , Philbrick Brandon D , Deuschl Cornelius , Yamac Elif , Ayad Ahmed , Tabani Halima , Sorscher Michelle , Berenstein Alejandro , Fifi Johanna T , Chapot René , Shigematsu Tomoyoshi 
Published: October 2024

Background Vein of Galen malformations are congenital arteriovenous malformations primarily treated by endovascular embolization via transarterial or transvenous approaches. transvenous embolization can be utilized to close the malformation but may be difficult in patients with venous stenosis or blockages, which drive venous hypertension and lead to significant neurologic consequences. Here, we illustrate the atypical placement of an intracranial venous sinus stent to improve outflow after transvenous embolization in pediatric patients with the vein of Galen malformation. Methods A retrospective review of clinical databases at two high-volume endovascular centers from January 2018 to March 2023 identified all vein of Galen malformation patients who received a venous sinus stent during transvenous embolization. Clinical data, imaging, angioarchitecture, operative details, postoperative management, and follow-up were reviewed. Results Three patients presented for transvenous embolization after multiple staged transarterial embolizations of their vein of Galen malformation. Transvenous access was complicated by lateral sinus stenosis, which was temporarily relieved by balloon angioplasty. After transvenous embolization by pressure cooker technique, the dural sinuses were stented using the existing venous guide catheter. Venous angiography demonstrated improved flow across the stenosed areas and post-embolization angiography demonstrated normalized venous drainage with widely patent stents. One patient experienced postoperative oculomotor nerve palsy unrelated to the stent placement. All patients demonstrated a complete cure of their vein of Galen malformations with patent venous sinus stents on follow-up. Conclusion In patients with the vein of Galen malformation and venous hypertension receiving transvenous embolization, venous sinus stenting may be a safe and effective option to reduce aberrant cortical venous drainage and improve normal outflow. Further studies are warranted to investigate its benefit in high-flow vascular malformations.
Variations in treatment approaches for patients with scapula alata – A national survey across public hospitals in Denmark
Authors: Hvidberg Kirstine Lyngsøe , Budtz Cecilie Rud , Aalkjær Grethe , Villumsen Søren , Elmengaard Brian , Christiansen David Høyrup , Østergaard Helle Kvistgaard 
Published: October 2024

Introduction Scapula alata (SA) is a condition characterized by medial winging and reduced upward rotation of the scapula during arm elevation, leading to impaired shoulder function. This study aimed to assess diagnostic and treatment approaches for SA in public hospitals in Denmark. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional survey was undertaken using a self-administered questionnaire to healthcare professionals across departments in public hospitals in Denmark. The survey investigated diagnostic practices, including referral to electroneurography (ENG), ICD-10 coding and local treatment practices. Results A total of 20 hospital departments completed the questionnaire. Six hospitals use ENG as part of their diagnostic practice. Six different ICD-10 codes were reported for SA. Annual patient numbers ranged from 0 to 20, with four hospitals accounting for most of the patients. Doctors and physiotherapists are the primary healthcare providers involved in the diagnostic and treatment process. Only four hospitals reported written local guidelines for SA treatment. Treatment approaches included exercise therapy, brace treatment, surgery, and in some cases, a waiting approach. Conclusion The survey revealed significant variations in diagnostic and treatment practices for SA across Denmark. This emphasizes the need for further research and national and international consensus, including standardized guidelines for diagnostics and treatment practices.
Catheter-associated urinary tract infections in critically Ill patients with COVID-19: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Dąbrowska Paulina , Bartoszewicz Mateusz , Bartoszewicz Klaudia , Kosel Juliusz , Stróż Samuel , Ładny Jerzy Robert , Czaban Sławomir Lech 
Published: October 2024

Background: Catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CA-UTIs) pose a significant challenge in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with COVID-19. Objective: The study aims to assess the prevalence of CA-UTIs, identify the causative pathogens and their resistance profiles, and determine the risk factors and outcomes associated with CA-UTIs in ICU patients with COVID-19. Design: Single-center, retrospective cohort study. Methods: The study included 201 adult ICU patients diagnosed with COVID-19 between March 2020 and July 2021. Patients were categorized into CA-UTI ( n = 56) and non-CA-UTI ( n = 145) groups. Data on demographic characteristics, clinical course, treatment, and outcomes were collected. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for CA-UTI. Results: CA-UTIs developed in 28% of patients ( n = 56). Incidence density of 15.8 episodes per 1000 catheter days. The average onset occurrence is 7.2 days after ICU admission. Patients with CA-UTI had longer ICU stays (18.8 days vs 10.5 days, p < 0.001) and more elevated mortality rates (75.0% vs 54.5%, p = 0.010), higher mechanical ventilation (MV) usage (98.2% vs 88.3%, p = 0.027), a longer average duration of MV (16.6 days vs 9.1 days, p < 0.001). Longer ICU and hospital stays were significant risk factors for CA-UTI. Other factors, such as the use of corticosteroids, chronic organ insufficiency or immunocompromized status, female sex, age, diabetes mellitus, and the duration of urinary catheterization, did not show significant associations with CA-UTI risk in this cohort. Gram-negative bacteria, particularly Klebsiella pneumoniae (28 cases), was the most common pathogen, with a high prevalence of multidrug resistance (38.8%) with type ESBL, MBL, NDM, and OXA-48. The occurrence of multidrug resistant (MDR) organisms was 68.8%. Conclusion: The findings of this study underscore the prevalence of CA-UTIs in ICU patients with COVID-19, significantly impacting patient outcomes. Effective infection control and targeted antimicrobial therapy are crucial to managing these infections.
Exploring the relationship between neurologists and older persons with multiple sclerosis through the lens of social support theory
Authors: Stanikić Mina , Gille Felix , Schlomberg Jonas , Daniore Paola , Kägi Susanne , Chan Andrew , Kamm Christian P , Zecca Chiara , Calabrese Pasquale , Roth Patrick , Baum Claudia , Rapold Irene , Puhan Milo A , von Wyl Viktor 
Published: October 2024

Background Although healthcare practitioners (HCPs) are a valuable source of social support, research on support provided by neurologists to older persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) remains limited. Objectives To explore expectations of pwMS aged 55 years or older regarding MS care and to identify support types, met and unmet needs within their relationship with neurologists. Methods Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, we analyzed survey data from Swiss Multiple Sclerosis Registry participants. Quantitative data included Likert scales gauging the importance of various aspects of MS care for pwMS both in and out of neurological care. Qualitative data were derived from three open-ended questions, focusing on neurologist-provided support for pwMS in neurological care. Data underwent descriptive and deductive thematic analysis, using Cutrona and Suhr framework for coding social support. Results Among the 286 participants (median age 61.0 years, interquartile range (IQR) 57.0–66.0; median disease duration 23.5 years, IQR 15.0–31.0), 84.6% ( N = 244) were under neurological care. Quantitative findings highlighted the significance of HCP expertise and consultation time. Qualitative analysis identified all social support domains in the neurologist–pwMS relationship, with informational support being most prevalent, followed by emotional support. Neurologists’ expertise, availability, comprehensive advising, listening, and validation emerged as key themes. Unmet needs were relatively infrequent and concerned insufficient information on complementary medicine, empathy, and understanding of symptoms like fatigue. Conclusions Older pwMS see neurologists as adequate providers of comprehensive support and particularly value neurologists’ sufficient availability, informational and emotional support. Areas for improvement include attention to complementary medicine and empathy.
Differences in Player Performance and Longevity After Achilles Tendon Rupture Between Professional Basketball Players in the NBA and WNBA
Authors: Momtaz David A. , Ghali Abdullah , Ahmad Farhan , Gonuguntla Rishi , Wang Rebecca J. , Yanney Reid , Lao Ashley , Bora Varun , Shybut Theodore B. 
Published: October 2024

Background: Prior studies in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) reported worse player performance after Achilles tendon rupture (ATR). Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to compare time to return to play (RTP) and performance after ATR between NBA and WNBA athletes. It was hypothesized that there would be no relative difference between the NBA and WNBA players. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: ATRs in the NBA between 1987 and 2017 and WNBA between 2006 and 2017 were identified through a rigorous online search of articles. Included athletes had no prior leg injuries and had played ≥3 seasons before and after ATR. Sex, age, position, body mass index, height, years of experience, time to RTP, and player efficiency rating (PER) were recorded. Relative performance was measured by matching injured athletes to uninjured controls in the same league in a 1:2 ratio. Relative differences were compared between leagues, with adjustment for baseline features. Multiple regression analysis was employed to identify variables correlating with RTP and PER. Results: Included were 102 professional basketball players, of whom 34 sustained ATR (21 male, 13 female). Sex/league correlated with differences in RTP ( P < .001). There was a significant difference between the WNBA and NBA in PER when comparing 1 year pre- and 1 year postinjury (1.49 ± 0.25 vs 3.87 ± 0.43, respectively; mean ± SD P < .001). Compared with intraleague controls, the relative difference in PER postinjury was 0.81 ± 0.11 (WNBA) and 3.9 ± 0.89 (NBA) ( P < .001). Multiple regression analysis indicated that when controlling for years of experience, player position, and age, NBA players took 126 days longer than WNBA players to RTP ( P < .001) and NBA players had 9.96 times increased odds of taking >200 days to RTP compared with WNBA players ( P = .006). Conclusion: Sex/league was a significant predictor of RTP after ATR. When compared with their respective controls, NBA players saw a greater decrease in postinjury performance than WNBA players. NBA players took longer to RTP than WNBA players. ATRs appear to more negatively affect NBA players than WNBA players.