bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
From Confidence to Convenience: Changes in Voting Systems, Donald Trump, and Voter Confidence
Authors: Carter Luke , Gruwell Ashlan , Monson J Quin , Patterson Kelly D 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
A growing body of research indicates that voters’ perceptions of the electoral system change when the means of administering elections change. As some electoral jurisdictions have moved to systems designed to increase voter convenience, little is known about whether convenience is achieved at the expense of confidence. Utah’s rollout of Vote by Mail (VBM) occurred county by county across five federal elections, and the three most populous counties adopted all VBM elections successively in 2014, 2016, and 2018. This meaningful variance in voter experience with VBM allows us to model the relationship between experience with VBM and voter confidence. We find that the switch to a more convenient system of voting came at the expense of diminished confidence in the voting process. However, experience with VBM is positively related to confidence such that the loss in confidence can be recouped over time. To capture this dynamic relative to other factors, we also estimate the effects of partisanship and the messages of political elites. In the aftermath of the 2020 election, the effect of partisanship on voter confidence changed compared to just two years earlier. Elite messages appear to be especially negative for Trump voters after 2020. More experience with VBM acts as a bulwark against those negative messages, almost completely attenuating the negative effects of Trump’s fraud claims among his voters with the highest levels of VBM experience.
Respiratory syncytial virus-associated pneumonia in primary care in Malawi
Authors: Davy Kimberly , Koskinas Elena , Watson Chris , Ledwidge Mark , Mbakaya Balwani , Chisale Master , Gallagher Joe 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Objective
To identify the prevalence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in a cohort of children under 5 years of age with World Health Organization (WHO)-defined pneumonia and the factors associated with developing severe RSV-associated community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in primary care in a single centre in Northern Malawi.

Methods
The BIOmarkers TO diagnose PnEumonia (BIOTOPE) study was a prospective cohort study conducted from March to June 2016 that took place in a primary care centre in Northern Malawi. Data from this study was used to identify the characteristics of children under 5 years of age who presented with RSV and WHO-defined CAP. Means, standard deviations, medians and ranges were calculated for continuous variables. A univariate logistic regression was performed to examine the potential predictor variables.

Results
Four hundred and ninety-four infants presented with CAP and were eligible for inclusion in the study; RSV infection was detected in 205 (41.6%) of the infants. Eight factors were associated with increased risk for RSV CAP in the univariate model: age, born at term, presenting for care in June, crowded living environment, not being exclusively breastfed, not having received zinc or vitamin A supplementation in the last six months. Infants with RSV were more likely to have an oxygen saturation ≤92% compared to infants with other causes of pneumonia and more likely to have severe pneumonia as defined by the WHO.

Conclusion
This study supports that RSV-associated CAP is linked to modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors; further research is indicated to determine which interventions would be most impactful. Developing and implementing an infant or maternal vaccine could be a cost-effective way to prevent RSV-associated CAP and mortality in developing nations. More research is needed to understand seasonal patterns of CAP and research over extended periods can offer valuable insights on host, environmental and pathogen-specific factors that contribute to RSV-associated CAP.
Emerging concepts of migrasome: An up‐and‐coming organelle from biology to the clinic
Authors: Jiao Lin , Luo Xinyi , Xu Yixin , Sun Ting , Lei Xinxing , Song Xingbo , Ying Binwu 
Published: July 2024

AbstractSince the migrasome concept was first proposed in 2015, extensive research has been conducted on these novel organelles, which grow on retracted fibers at the posterior end of migrating cells. Recently, molecular markers, biological functions, and clinical values based on the initial formation mechanism of migrasomes have emerged. Additionally, researchers are recognizing the significant role that migrasomes play in the pathological and diagnostic processes of clinical diseases. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the biology and clinical application of migrasomes and provide a comprehensive view of the prospective challenges surrounding their clinical application.
National basketball association slam dunk contest participation does not lead to increased injury risk or adversely affect player performance
Authors: Sobol Garret L. , Rosenberg Samuel I. , Baker Hayden P. , Dayton Steven R. , Plantz Mark A. , Tjong Vehniah K. 
Published: July 2024

Background:
The National Basketball Association (NBA) Slam Dunk Contest has declined in popularity in recent years, in large part due to a lack of star-player participation relative to the NBA All Star Game. The purpose of the current study is to evaluate the effect of NBA Slam Dunk Contest participation on subsequent injury risk and player performance.

Methods:
Participants from twenty NBA Slam Dunk Contests (2000-2019) were identified and matched to a control group consisting of same-year All-Star Game players. Injury data and performance data concerning all major offensive and defensive statistical categories was obtained from publicly available databases. Injury rates and season-long statistical performances were compared between groups both before and after the All-Star Game/Dunk Contest. Logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors for injury in the second portion of the NBA season.

Results:
There were 88 players in each group. Injury rates in the second portion of the season were not statistically different between the groups. The dunk contest group did not demonstrate a statistical decline in any of the second half performance metrics. When compared to the control group, no statistically significant second-half differences were noted other than a slight increase in points-per-minute in the dunk contest group (5.6%±20.3% vs. 0.0%±15.8% P=0.04).

Conclusions:
Participation in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest did not lead to an increased risk for injury or a decline in statistical production when compared to All-Star game players.
Autologous Cultured Tissue Engineering Epidermal Sheet Transplantation to Treat Vitiligo of the Hands
Authors: Lu Haowei , Wang Xuchao , Chen Shujun , Lin Jinran , Wu Wenyu , Li Jian 
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND
Despite numerous therapeutic modalities for vitiligo, their efficacy varies. Managing vitiligo affecting the hands poses a particularly intricate challenge, with outcomes trailing those in other anatomical regions.

OBJECTIVE
Assess the determinants influencing the efficacy and safety of autocultured tissue engineering epidermal sheets transplantation in treating hand vitiligo, observed over a 6-month follow-up period.

METHODS
A retrospective analysis was conducted on 33 patients who underwent treatment for hand vitiligo using autocultured tissue engineering epidermal sheets transplantation. Repigmentation extent was evaluated by 2 dermatologists.

RESULTS
The cohort comprised 33 patients, including 24 males and 9 females, with an average age of 26.91 ± 9.24 years (range: 10–49 years). The mean duration of the disease was 11.61 ± 7.83 years (range: 1.5–34 years). Vitiligo lesion stability ranged from 6 months to 4 years, with an average duration of stability calculated at 1.715 ± 1 year. After 6 months, 75.8% (25/33) of patients exhibited a favorable response, with 39.4% (13/33) showing complete or near-complete repigmentation. No adverse events, such as infections or scar formation, were recorded.

CONCLUSION
The authors' investigation suggests that autocultured tissue engineering epidermal sheets transplantation is a highly effective and safe therapeutic approach for hand vitiligo, offering a promising treatment avenue.
Sicca syndrome post-COVID-19 infection: a case report
Authors: Dumirieh Sumaya , Al lahham Leen , Tarcha Raghad , Hoha Ghofran , Hamsho Suaad , Kudsi Maysoun 
Published: July 2024

Introduction and importance:
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a post-acute syndrome that can persist for a prolonged period.

Case presentation:
The authors’ case reported a 31-years-old male presented with the sensation of sand in his eyes and a dry mouth for 3 months after infection with COVID-19 confirmed by nasopharyngeal swab 3 months ago. Laboratory tests including immunological profile were normal. Schirmer’s test was positive. He was treated with artificial tears with corticosteroid drops and water drinking. Within 15 days he noticed an improvement in his sicca symptoms.

Clinical discussion:
The post-acute COVID-19 syndrome can persist for a longer duration than expected, even after the acute onset of the disease. Some patients may experience ocular and oral symptoms such as dry mouth, dysgeusia, and dry eye diseases. The pathophysiology of these symptoms may be related to viral pathophysiologic changes, immunologic aberrations, and inflammatory reactions that destroy the tissue of salivary glands. Additionally, there is evidence of elevated autoantibodies in post-COVID-19 patients. Future studies are needed to understand the sequela of this infection.

Conclusion:
What makes this case special is the combination of dry eyes and dry mouth with a negative immunological profile in a young patient who had COVID without severe symptoms.
Increased Microvascular Filtration and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-D associated with Changed Lymphatic Vessel Morphology in Breast Cancer Treated Patients
Authors: Johannessen Andreas L. , Alstrup Mathias , Hjortdal Vibeke E. , Palmfeldt Johan , Offersen Birgitte V. , Mohanakumar Sheyanth 
Published: July 2024

Background:
Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) and inflammatory cytokines are indicated to be implicated in lymphedema development. We aimed to describe changes in microvascular filtration and VEGFs in a patient cohort vulnerable to breast cancer–related lymphedema development correlated with data on lymphatic morphology and function.

Methods:
Consecutive node-positive breast cancer patients operated in the axilla and evaluated approximately 12 months after adjuvant locoregional radiotherapy were studied. Capillary filtration rate (CFR) and isovolumetric pressure of the arms were measured by strain gauge plethysmography, and 13 blood proteins were quantified by Luminex and Elisa technology in 28 patients and 18 healthy controls.

Results:
The CFR was reduced in both arms from baseline to 1-year follow-up (ipsilateral: P = 0.016 and contralateral: P = 0.001). When stratifying lymphatic complications (morphologic abnormalities and/or breast cancer–related lymphedema), CFR reached a lower steady-state in the arms with normal morphology (I:P = 0.013 and C:P = 0.013) whereas the ipsilateral arm with lymphatic complications remained unchanged (P = 0.457). In patients with lymphatic abnormal vessels, the levels of VEGF-D were 86% higher than in patients with normal lymphatic vessels (P = 0.042), whereas levels of VEGFR-3 were 64% higher (P = 0.016).

Conclusions:
Through one year of follow-up, CFR did not decrease in the lymphatic complicated treated arms as observed in noncomplicated treated arms. The patients had increased levels of VEGF-D and VEGFR-3. This correlation suggests that VEGF plays a role in the appearance of subcutaneous abnormal lymphatic vessels in the treated arms, which also maintain a fluid filtration/drainage mismatch up to one year after breast cancer treatment.
Effect of Belin-Ambrósio deviation index on 2-year refractive outcomes of PRK
Authors: Shams Seyyed Saeed , Hassanzadeh Samira , Zarei-Ghanavati Mehran , Ravanshad Yalda , Sadeghi Javad , Ziaei Mohammed , Zarei-Ghanavati Siamak 
Published: July 2024

Purpose:
To assess the effect of preoperative Belin-Ambrósio deviation (BAD-D) index on 2-year visual, refractive, and tomographic outcomes, as well as the efficacy and safety of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) surgery.

Setting:
Eye clinic, Mashhad, Iran.

Design:
Prospective cohort study.

Methods:
This study included 66 patients (66 eyes) who underwent PRK surgery, with a minimum follow-up period of 2 years. Participants were divided into 2 groups: preoperative BAD-D ≥1.60 (high BAD-D) and preoperative BAD-D <1.60 (low BAD-D). Preoperative and postoperative visual, refractive, and tomographic parameters were evaluated, and the efficacy and safety of the procedure were compared between groups.

Results:
66 patients with a mean age of 35.50 ± 8.21 years (range 22 to 55 years) were included. Postoperatively, the mean spherical equivalent (SE) of refractive error was +0.32 ± 0.65 diopters (D) in the high BAD-D group and +0.18 ± 0.66 D in the low BAD-D group (P = .40). In addition, at 2 years of follow-up, the mean uncorrected distance visual acuity was 0.98 ± 0.07 in the high BAD-D group and 0.97 ± 0.08 in the low BAD-D group (P = .905). Among the postoperative tomographic parameters, front elevation thickness, maximum Ambrósio relational thickness, astigmatism, and central corneal thickness were significantly different between the 2 groups (all, P < .05). At the 2-year follow-up, the mean Safety Index was 1.02 ± 0.04, and 1.01 ± 0.04 in high and low BAD-D groups, respectively (P = .37), and the mean Efficacy Index was 0.99 ± 0.07 and 0.98 ± 0.06 in high and low BAD-D groups, respectively (P = .40).

Conclusions:
The preoperative BAD-D index does not predict postoperative visual, refractive, and tomographic outcomes in patients with low-to-moderate myopia. However, in patients with normal preoperative BAD-D values, higher agreement was expected between the attempted and achieved SE.
Advancing Preservation Rhinoplasty: The J-Suture Technique for Refining the Middle Third of the Nose
Authors: Levy Jerry , Mathieu Olivier , Cetrulo Curtis L. , Lellouch Alexandre G. , Dogan Teoman 
Published: July 2024

Summary:
This article introduces a novel technique for refining the middle third of the nose in preservation rhinoplasty, adhering to the principles established by Teoman Dogan. The technique, applicable through both open and closed approaches, maintains the integrity of the nasal dorsum. The J-suture technique is particularly significant for addressing the widening of the middle third of the nose, a common issue in preservation rhinoplasty. This technique uses an absorbable percutaneous suture, allowing for the approximation of the upper lateral cartilages and thus thinning of the middle third of the nose. The authors discuss the technical aspects and advantages of the J-suture, emphasizing its simplicity, predictability, reproducibility, and ease of execution. The technique, requiring minimal training, can be adopted by any surgeon practicing preservation rhinoplasty. The J-suture represents a significant advancement in preservation rhinoplasty, providing a practical solution for enhancing nasal aesthetics, minimizing surgical trauma, and promoting patient well-being.
Pitanguy Ligament Preservation in Structural Precision Rhinoplasty
Authors: Lisiecki Jeffrey , Chiodo Michael , Novak Matthew , Cotofana Sebastian , Rohrich Rod J. 
Published: July 2024

Summary:
The Pitanguy ligament is a crucial structure in nasal tip support and in maintaining the integrity of the soft-tissue envelope of the nose. In this cadaveric study, the authors dissected out the Pitanguy ligament on a series of fresh human cadaver specimens to elucidate the structure of the ligament and its fate in open rhinoplasty. The Pitanguy ligament can act as a tethering force to the nasal tip when reshaping the nasal tip. Release of the Pitanguy ligament alleviated downward tension on the nasal tip, and tip shaping to a more appropriate position demonstrated that this ligament was displaced from its ideal position. In patients seeking rhinoplasty, this structure may require release and reconstruction to successfully alter tip position and avoid supratip deformity.
Optimal Strategies for Autologous Fat Grafting in Breast Augmentation and Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sun Yulin , Liu Qian , Zhu Jie , Hu Hao , Lu Lu , Ying Jianghui , Guo Rong , Ye Xiuyu , Zhu Lie , Jiang Hua 
Published: July 2024

Background:
Cell-assisted lipotransfer (CAL) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP)–assisted lipotransfer have been used to overcome the low survival rate of conventional lipotransfer. However, there is still insufficient evidence to determine which technique is the best strategy for autologous fat grafting in breast cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. The present study aimed to compare the efficacy of traditional fat transplantation, CAL, and PRP-assisted lipotransfer.

Methods:
A systematic search was conducted in several databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Embase, concluding on January 21, 2024, to identify studies that met the inclusion criteria. Twelve studies were included after a rigorous selection process based on predefined criteria. Statistical analyses were conducted using R version 4.0.5 software with the netmeta and dmetar packages, utilizing a frequentist approach with a random-effects model. A network meta-analysis was performed to compare different fat graft procedures with regard to fat survival rate and complication events.

Results:
CAL and PRP-assisted lipotransfer were better than traditional fat grafting in terms of fat survival rate. In addition, there was no significant difference in the incidence of postoperative complications among the CAL, PRP, and traditional groups.

Conclusions:
Given the results of network meta-analysis, it appears that both CAL and PRP-assisted lipotransfer have a higher fat survival rate for autologous fat grafting in breast augmentation and reconstruction. However, the transplantation strategy still needs to be analyzed based on actual conditions in clinical applications.
Using an Innovative Protective Sleeve to Reduce Skin Compression Complications in Axillary Osmidrosis Surgery
Authors: Ho Benjamin Xi En , Ho Wen-Tsao 
Published: July 2024

Osmidrosis is a condition characterized by malodorous sweat production in the armpits that often necessitates surgical intervention with tie-over bandages in the axillary area. Standard tie-over bandages may cause skin compression-related complications, such as bruising and skin erosion. To address this issue, we developed a novel technique using a modified protective sleeve.
We conducted an observational study involving 60 patients undergoing axillary osmidrosis surgery and divided them into groups. In the experimental group we used a novel technique that included using a modified protective sleeve secured with 4-0 silk sutures. In the control group we used standard tie-over bandages. We created the protective sleeve from the tail of a 3 mL syringe by drilling holes on both sides and securing it onto a 10 mm-wide Penrose drain. We threaded sutures through the holes and provided padding between the sutures and the skin. We assessed primary outcomes of bruising and skin breakdown at eight anchoring sites. We found that using the novel protective sleeve significantly reduced skin complications. Compared with standard bandages, the incidence of bruising was reduced by 83.33% (i.e., 16.7% vs 70%). The incidence of skin erosion was reduced by 75% (10% vs 40%). Notably, the control group exhibited delayed complications, such as hypertrophic scars.
Analysis of Factors Determining Spleen Preservation during Laparoscopic Distal Pancreatectomy – A Cohort Study
Authors: Borys Maciej , Wysocki Michał , Gałązka Krystyna , Budzyński Andrzej 
Published: July 2024

Background:
Spleen preservation during laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LSPDP) should be pursued if safe and oncologically justified. The aim of the presented study was to compare surgical outcomes and identify risk factors for unplanned splenectomy during laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy and evaluate short and long-terms outcomes.

Methods:
The following study is a retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy, with the intention of preserving the spleen, for benign tumors of the body and tail of the pancreas between August 2012 and December 2022. Follow-up for patients’ survival was completed in January 2023. In all, 106 patients were in total included in this study. Median age was 58 (41 to 67) years. The study population included 29 males (27.4%) and 77 females (72.6%).

Results:
Spleen preservation was possible in 67 (63.2%) patients. The tumor size was larger in the splenectomy group (respectively, 30 (16.5 to 49) vs. 15 (11 to 25); P<0.001). Overall, serious postoperative morbidity was 13.4% in the LSPDP group and 20.5% in the second group (P=0.494). There were no perioperative deaths. The postoperative pancreatic fistula rate was 18% in the splenectomy group and 14.9% in the LSPDP group, while B and C fistulas were diagnosed in 15.4% and 10.5% of patients, respectively. In the multivariate logistic regression model, tumor size >3 cm was found to independently increase odds for unplanned splenectomy (OR 8.41, 95%CI 2.89-24.46; standardized for BMI).

Conclusion:
Unplanned splenectomy during the attempt of LSPDP does not increase the risk for postoperative morbidity and postoperative pancreatic fistula. The independent risk factor for unplanned splenectomy during LSPDP is tumor size above 3 cm.
Differences in drug intake levels (high versus low takers) do not necessarily imply distinct drug user types: insights from a new cluster-based model
Authors: Castaneda Diego Martinez , Job Martin O 
Published: July 2024

AbstractBackgroundClassifying psychostimulant users as high and low responders based on median split of drug intake levels has face-validity: these appear to be different types of drug users. However, because psychostimulant intake levels a) are defined by an inverted U-shaped dose response (IUDR) curve, and b) do not necessarily imply motivation for the drug, it is unclear that median split-designated high and low drug responders represent different drug user types.AimsTo determine if median split-designated groups of high and low drug takers represent distinct groups when subjected to a new cluster-based model.MethodsMale Sprague Dawley rats (n = 11) self-administered cocaine doses (0.00, 0.01, 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 0.56 and 1.00 mg/kg/infusion) to reveal the IUDR curve per individual. We derived six variables defining the structure of the IUDR curve (amplitude, mean, width, and area under the curve: AUC) and the IUDR-derived economic demand curve (consumption at zero price or Q0and the motivation for drug or α). We compared median split and clustering of all variables (cocaine dose, IUDR/demand curves) obtained.ResultsMedian split of individual cocaine doses and IUDR curve-derived variables identified high versus low responders, but these groups were inconsistent with regards to group composition. Clustering of all cocaine doses revealed one cluster. Clustering of IUDR curve-derived variables revealed one cluster. Global clustering of all cocaine doses and all IUDR curve-derived variables revealed only one cluster.ConclusionsHigh and low drug takers do not necessarily represent distinct drug user types.