bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Extended Length of Stay After Mechanical Thrombectomy for Stroke: A Single-Center Analysis of 703 Patients
Authors: Roy Joanna M. , Majmundar Shyam , Patel Shray , Fuleihan Antony , Musmar Basel , El Naamani Kareem , Tjoumakaris Stavropoula I. , Gooch M. Reid , Rosenwasser Robert H. , Jabbour Pascal M. 
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) is crucial for improving functional outcomes for acute ischemic stroke. Length of stay (LOS) is a reimbursement metric implemented to incentivize value-based care. Our study aims to identify predictors of LOS in patients undergoing MT at a high-volume center in the United States.

METHODS:
This was a retrospective study of patients who underwent MT at a single institution from 2017 to 2023. Patients who experienced mortality during their course of hospital stay were excluded from this study. Extended LOS (eLOS) was defined as the upper quartile (≥75th) of the median duration of hospital stay. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed, with P values < .05 denoting statistical significance.

RESULTS:
Seven hundred three patients met criteria for inclusion. The median age of the cohort was 72 years (IQR: 61-82), and 57.2% was female. The median LOS was 6, IQR: 4-10. A total of 28.9% of the cohort (n = 203) patients experienced eLOS. The multivariate regression model identified age (odds ratio [OR]: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.97-0.99), diabetes mellitus (OR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.15-2.44), and hemorrhagic transformation of stroke (OR: 2.89, 95% CI: 0.39-0.90) as predictors of eLOS, whereas antiplatelet use before admission (OR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.34-0.89) and higher baseline modified Rankin Scale before stroke were associated with lower odds (OR: 0.59 [0.39-0.90]; P < .05) of eLOS.

CONCLUSION:
By identifying predictors of eLOS, we provide a foundation for targeted interventions aimed at optimizing post-thrombectomy care pathways and improving patient outcomes. The implications of our study extend beyond clinical practice, offering insights into healthcare resource utilization, reimbursement strategies, and value-based care initiatives.
Inverted optical functionality of phase change material surfaces through Mie resonances of VO2@Si core–shell structures
Authors: Pirouzfam Niloufar , Mashinchi Abbasi Payam , Sendur Kursat 
Published: July 2024

Vanadium dioxide (VO2) has attracted extensive attention due to its reversible transition from the insulator to metal phase at a critical temperature of 68°C. Below the critical temperature VO2 transmits the infrared radiation in the insulator phase, whereas above the critical temperature VO2 reflects the infrared portion of the incident radiation. However, smart surface interfaces for high-temperature emitter surfaces require the opposite functionality within the 1–3 µm spectral range. Here, we demonstrate that a core–shell structure, composed of VO2@Si, which is deposited on a thin layer of Ag, achieves the inverted optical functionality within the 1–3 µm spectral range, making it ideal as smart interfaces for radiative heat applications as high-temperature emitters. The proposed material architecture also increases the thermal stability of VO2 in addition to enhancing its optical properties in near-infrared region. The results were obtained using numerical simulations. Our results indicate that in its metallic state, the core–shell structure with metallic underlayer promotes efficient absorption in the near-infrared spectrum. On the other hand, in its insulating state dielectric resonances within the core–shell structure along with the metallic underlayer, resulting in increased reflection, offer inverse optical functionalities. Our findings present a significant step toward designing dynamic filters that can efficiently capture and respond to changing conditions in the near-infrared spectrum.
Design and experimental demonstration of a high-performance all-silicon transverse magnetic polarizer using tilted-elliptical-hole arrays
Authors: Yu Yaxin , Guo Zhenzhao , Wu Shengbao , Xiao Jinbiao 
Published: July 2024

This study presents the design and experimental demonstration of a high-performance all-silicon transverse magnetic (TM) polarizer. The tilted-elliptical-hole arrays are designed to effectively reflect transverse electric (TE) modes while propagating TM modes with low loss. The device bandwidth (BW) is controlled by changing the tilting angle of the elliptical hole or by combining it with changes in other parameters. The device operates beyond 326 nm (1385–1711 nm) in BW, achieving an average insertion loss (IL) below 1.0 dB and a polarization extinction ratio (PER) over 20 dB. A 20 nm shift in BW can be obtained with a 30° deflection, and an 80 nm shift can be achieved with multiple parameter changes. The experimental results confirm the theoretical analysis. The present device with the advantages of simple structure, flexible design, and broad BW has great potential applications in silicon photonics.
A pilot study of dimeticone oils versus sodium carbonate treatment for tungiasis: A randomized cohort trial in Homa Bay County, Kenya
Authors: Suzuki Kana , Kamiya Yasuhiko , Smith Chris , Kaneko Satoshi , Okomo Gordon , Ongaya Asiko , Amukoye Evans 
Published: July 2024

Background
Tungiasis is a cutaneous parasitosis caused by the female flea Tunga penetrans. Two-component dimeticone (NYDA) is the only treatment for tungiasis recommended by the World Health Organization; however, this topical drug is not available in Kenya. In Western Kenya, sodium carbonate is commonly used in the treatment of tungiasis. This study evaluated the 7-day cure rates for tungiasis by comparing sodium carbonate and NYDA treatments in Homa Bay County, Kenya.

Methodology/Principal findings
This was a randomized, observer-blinded, parallel-treatment cohort trial. Twenty-three eligible children with 126 flea infections were matched and randomized. All participants received both treatments, with one treatment on each foot. We recorded all health conditions/information, including inflammation scores and adverse events. Observations were performed on days 3, 5, and 7 using a digital microscope to confirm dead or live fleas based on the viability signs. Twenty-three children aged 3–13 years were analyzed. The proportion of dead fleas on day 7 was higher after NYDA treatment than after 5% sodium carbonate treatment (87% versus 64%, respectively, P = 0.01) NYDA. Median survival was 5 days for both treatments; NYDA had significantly higher trend of flea non-viability rate than 5% sodium carbonate (P<0.01). There were no significant differences in the inflammation score or pain/itchiness between the two treatments. On the last day, 14 children indicated their preference for NYDA in future treatment of tungiasis, whereas nine children preferred the 5% sodium carbonate solution.

Conclusions/Significance
NYDA was significantly more effective than 5% sodium carbonate for tungiasis treatment. Both treatments were safe but the children preferred NYDA more. Future studies with more participants and an extended observation period are warranted to confirm our findings. The findings suggest that NYDA should be made more available in tungiasis endemic area.

Trial registration
UMIN-CTR; UMIN 000044320
A pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial of air filtration to prevent symptomatic winter respiratory infections (including COVID-19) in care homes (AFRI-c) in England: Trial protocol
Authors: Brierley Rachel C. M. , Taylor Jodi , Turner Nicholas , Rees Sophie , Thorn Joanna , Metcalfe Chris , Henderson Emily J. , Clement Clare , Welsh Tomas J. , Sargent Karen , Morgan Gemma , Ready Derren , Mellon Dominic , Wen Liping , Kipping Ruth , Hay Alastair D. 
Published: July 2024

Background
Respiratory tract infections are readily transmitted in care homes. Airborne transmission of pathogens causing respiratory tract illness is largely unmitigated. Portable high-efficiency-particulate-air (HEPA) filtration units capture microbial particles from the air, but it is unclear whether this is sufficient to reduce infections in care home residents. The Air Filtration to prevent symptomatic winter Respiratory Infections (including COVID-19) in care homes (AFRI-c) randomized controlled trial will determine whether using HEPA filtration units reduces respiratory infection episodes in care home residents.

Methods
AFRI-c is a cluster randomized controlled trial that will be delivered in residential care homes for older people in England. Ninety-one care homes will be randomised to take part for one winter period. The intervention care homes will receive HEPA filtration units for use in communal areas and private bedrooms. Normal infection control measures will continue in all care homes. Anonymised daily data on symptoms will be collected for up to 30 residents. Ten to 12 of these residents will be invited to consent to a primary care medical notes review and (in intervention homes) to having an air filter switched on in their private room. The primary outcome will be number of symptomatic winter respiratory infection episodes. Secondary outcomes include specific clinical measures of infection, number of falls / near falls, number of laboratory confirmed infections, hospitalisations, staff sickness and cost-effectiveness. A mixed methods process evaluation will assess intervention acceptability and implementation.

Discussion
The results of AFRI-c will provide vital information about whether portable HEPA filtration units reduce symptomatic winter respiratory infections in older care home residents. Findings about effectiveness, fidelity, acceptability and cost-effectiveness will support stakeholders to determine the use of HEPA filtration units as part of infection control policies.
Better prognosis in surgical aortic valve replacement patients with lower red cell distribution width: A MIMIC-IV database study
Authors: Ruan Liancheng , Zhu Lingxiao , Su Lang , Hu Sheng , Wang Silin , Guo Qiang , Wan Bingen , Qiu Shengyu , Zhang Yang , Wei Yiping 
Published: July 2024

Background
Surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) currently stands as a primary surgical intervention for addressing aortic valve disease in patients. This retrospective study focused on the role of the red blood cell distribution width (RDW) in predicting adverse outcomes among SAVR patients.

Methods
The subjects for this study were exclusively derived from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care database (MIMIC IV 2.0). Kaplan‒Meier (K-M) curves and Cox proportional hazards regression models were employed to assess the correlation between RDW, one-year mortality, and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF). The smooth-fitting curves were used to observe the relative risk (RR) of RDW in one-year mortality and POAF. Furthermore, time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, the continuous-net reclassification index (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) were employed for comprehensive assessment of the prognostic value of RDW.

Results
Analysis of RDW revealed a distinctive inverted U-shaped relationship with one-year mortality, while its association with POAF appeared nearly linear. Cox multiple regression models showed that RDW > 14.35%, along with preoperative potassium concentration and perioperative red blood cell transfusion, were significantly linked to one-year mortality (K-M curves, log-rank P < 0.01). Additionally, RDW was associated with both POAF and prolonged hospital stays (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in length of stay in ICU. Notably, the inclusion of RDW in the predictive models substantially enhanced its performance. This was evidenced by the time-dependent ROC curve (AUC = 0.829), NRI (P< 0.05), IDI (P< 0.05), and K-M curves (log-rank P< 0.01).

Conclusions
RDW serves as a robust prognostic indicator for SAVR patients, offering a novel means of anticipating adverse postoperative events.
Trend of prevalence and characteristics of preserved ratio impaired spirometry (PRISm): Nationwide population-based survey between 2010 and 2019
Authors: Choi Hyunji , Oak Chul-Ho , Jung Mann-Hong , Jang Tae-Won , Nam Sung-Jin , Yoon Taemin 
Published: July 2024

Purpose
This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, trends, and factors of preserved ratio with impaired spirometry (PRISm) by using a nationally representative sample.

Patients and methods
The datasets of the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010–2019 were used: of total 32,949 participants aged ≥40 and no missing data on spirometry, 24,523 with normal, 4,623 with obstructive, and 3,803 with PRISm were identified. PRISm was defined as FEV1/FVC ≥70% and FEV1% of the predicted value (%pred) <80. PRISm-lower limit of normal (LLN) was defined when FEV1/FVC ≥LLN and FEV1 <LLN. The prevalence and trend of PRISm were estimated using the Joinpoint regression method. The trend was calculated for the periods 2010–2015 and 2017–2019, due to a change in spirometry device in June, 2016. A complex sample multivariable-adjusted regression model was used to identify factors associating PRISm.

Results
Estimated average prevalence of PRISm was 10.4% (PRISm-LLN 11.1%). Joinpoint regression analyses found a relatively stable trend of PRISm for both fixed ratio and LLN. The multivariable-adjusted logistic regression model showed female sex, BMI ≥25 kg/m2, metabolic syndrome, hypertriglyceridemia, abdominal obesity, low HDL-choleterol, hypertension, and diabetes were associated with the increased probability of PRISm.

Conclusion
Whenever a PRISm pattern is identified in a clinical context, it may be necessary to measure absolute lung volumes to investigate underlying physiological abnormalities and to identify factors that is modifiable.
Head circumferences measured during developmental monitoring visits before diagnosis of childhood-onset craniopharyngioma
Authors: Beckhaus Julia , Peng Junxiang , Boekhoff Svenja , Bison Brigitte , Friedrich Carsten , Müller Hermann L. 
Published: July 2024

Background
Craniopharyngiomas (CP) are histologically benign (WHO grade 1), embryonal malformations which are related to remnants of the Rathke’s pouch and are located in the (peri)sellar region. Already before CP diagnosis, many patients show a reduced growth velocity and tend to present with weight gain. However, it is unknown whether patients with CP develop an increased head circumference (HC) before CP diagnosis, which could be a useful early diagnostic indicator.

Patients and methods
For a cohort of 83 patients recruited in the multicenter studies KRANIOPHARYNGEOM 2000 and HIT-ENDO data on HC could be analyzed, based on medical records assessed in developmental monitoring visits performed at defined time points before CP diagnosis.

Results
When comparing HC standard deviation scores (SDS) before CP diagnosis in 83 patients at defined time points between birth and 4 years of age, all HC were in the upper normal range. However, CP patients diagnosed at an age ≤4 years with initial hypothalamic involvement presented with a tendency towards an increased HC SDS early before CP diagnosis at routine medical examinations during the first 7 months of life.

Conclusions
We conclude that monitoring of growth and weight development including HC can lead to early CP diagnosis and treatment. This might prevent higher grades of hypothalamic involvement and lead to an improvement of quality of life after CP. Further studies on the specific value of HC as a diagnostic marker are warranted.
Exploring the role of ferroptosis-related genes as biomarkers in acute kidney injury
Authors: Luo Gang , Gao Yi , Zheng Ziyu , Gao Baobao , Wang Lini , Tang Xuemiao , Lei Chong 
Published: July 2024

Introduction
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a severe condition with high morbidity and mortality. Innovative biomarkers and treatments are essential for improving patient outcomes. This study aims to investigate the role of ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) in AKI for identifying potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Methods
We analyzed mRNA expression profiles from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO: GSE139061) dataset, comparing 36 AKI samples with 9 normal samples. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified using the R software package limma. Functional enrichment analyses were conducted using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways. Key biomarkers were validated through area under the curve (AUC) values, and immune cell infiltration was analyzed using CIBERSORT.

Results
We identified 78 differentially expressed FRGs, with 27 up-regulated and 51 down-regulated genes. Key signaling pathways included MAPK, ferroptosis, and p53. Five genes—NR4A1, GLRX5, USP35, AEBP2, and MDM4—were identified as potential biomarkers, each demonstrating AUC values greater than 0.800. Specifically, MDM4 showed significant potential by promoting the phosphorylation of p53 at Ser46, enhancing mitochondrial apoptotic activity. Immune analysis revealed a significant elevation of M0 macrophages in AKI samples compared to normal samples (P < 0.01).

Conclusion
Our findings highlight the critical role of ferroptosis-related genes in AKI, identifying NR4A1, GLRX5, USP35, AEBP2, and MDM4 as key biomarkers with high diagnostic potential. These results provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms of AKI.
Development of the ECLIPSE model of meaningful outcome domains following lower limb amputation and prosthetic rehabilitation, through systematic review and best fit framework synthesis
Authors: Ostler Chantel , Dickinson Alex , Metcalf Cheryl , Donovan-Hall Maggie 
Published: July 2024

Background
Little is known about which outcome domains characterise meaningful recovery following prosthetic rehabilitation and should be measured. Our previous qualitative work developed a conceptual model of outcome domains which are meaningful to patients. This qualitative synthesis aims to develop that model by exploring views and experiences of recovery captured in the limb loss literature, and use these to produce a second iteration of the model describing outcome domains of importance following prosthetic rehabilitation from the patient’s perspective.

Methods
Systematic searches were conducted using CINAHL, Psychinfo and Web of Science from 2011 to early 2023. Studies with a qualitative design focusing on views and experiences of lower limb prosthetic users were eligible for inclusion. Quality was assessed using the CASP tool. ‘Best Fit’ framework synthesis was used to synthesise the evidence and develop the conceptual model.

Results
40 studies were included, describing the experiences of 539 participants. Data supported the pre-existing conceptual model and led to development of four of the five domains. The newly named ECLIPSE model describes meaningful outcome domains as 1) Being able to participate in important activities and roles, 2) Participating in the way I want to, 3) My prosthesis works for me, 4) If I am in pain, I can manage it, and 5) I am able to accept my new normal. Studies came from 15 countries showing good coverage of high-income settings. Few participants from low-and-middle-income countries were included, it is unclear if the ECLIPSE model describes outcome domains of importance in these settings.

Conclusions
This synthesis provides a rigorous foundation for understanding outcome domains of importance following lower limb prosthetic rehabilitation from the patient’s perspective. The ECLIPSE model is an accessible representation of recovery which could direct rehabilitation programmes, as well as inform the evaluation of prosthetic care through the selection of outcome measures.
Trastuzumab holds potential to accelerate spontaneous sensory reinnervation after free flap breast reconstruction: a proof of concept
Authors: Leskovar Jana , Petrovečki Marko , Bulić Krešimir 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Breast sensation following autologous breast reconstruction impacts patients’ quality of life. Although spontaneous reinnervation in free flaps was documented by many authors, there are efforts to further improve restoration of breast sensation. Interestingly, animal studies indicated that trastuzumab has several beneficial effects on transected peripheral nerves. Our aim was to compare spontaneous sensory recovery after free TRAM flap breast reconstruction between patients who were and were not treated with trastuzumab.

Methods
The study included 14 subjects who underwent tactile sensation examination in 5-year period after noninnervated free muscle-sparing TRAM flap breast reconstruction at the University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Croatia. Small and large flap skin islands and contralateral healthy breasts were tested with Semmes-Weinstein type monofilaments. Three sensory scores were created to more accurately compare breast sensation.

Results
In subjects receiving trastuzumab, sensory recovery earlier extended to at least four of five large skin island regions and was always present in the central flap area in comparison with subjects who were not administered trastuzumab (p=0.0476). As indicated by total sensory scores, trastuzumab-treated subjects restored sensation better resembling healthy control breasts (54 vs. 39 % in large skin islands; 95 vs. 71 % in small skin islands).

Conclusions
To the authors’ knowledge, the current study for the first time demonstrated trastuzumab’s potential to improve sensory outcomes in human. Our results support the strategy that accelerated nerve regeneration is a key to more successful reinnervation. HER2 and EGFR inhibitors emerge as new candidates for pharmacological interventions in peripheral nerve injury treatment.
Ileal free flap for hypopharynx reconstruction – case series
Authors: Tintinago-Londoño Luis Fernando , Candelo Estephania , Guzmán Tania , Victoria-Morales William 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Reconstructing the hypopharynx while preserving the larynx poses a complex surgical challenge due to the limited space and the high position of the hypopharynx in the neck. We present our experience with hypopharyngeal reconstruction and larynx preservation using an ileal free flap.

Case presentation
Six consecutive cases were reported (age range 17–75; 2 females). Indications for surgery were tumor excision, postexcision flap failure, postradiation stenosis, caustic ingestion injury, and cervical esophageal perforation. The larynx was preserved in four cases. Graft survival rate was 100 %. Videofluoroscopic swallowing studies conducted at postoperative day 20–80 were normal in three cases. Two cases presented with stenosis but responded well to endoscopic dilations. Unfortunately, the third case expired due to tumor recurrence.

Conclusions
The ileal free flap is a surgical alternative for the reconstruction of the hypopharynx, especially in cases where the larynx is preserved.