bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Understanding Interpersonal Violence Incidence in a U.S.–Mexico Border Community: A Geospatial Approach
Authors: Wholeben Melissa , Cheon Hyunjung , Goodson Amanda , Chakraborty Jayajit , Salazar Gloria , McCreary Robert 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

Background
Interpersonal violence (IV) is a global pandemic. Geographic borders represent unique spaces that are often shaped by cultural clashes, economic inequality, and jurisdictional complexities. Given the intricate social dynamics along the U.S.–Mexico border, this region provides a compelling yet understudied setting to advance research on the geographic dimensions of IV. However, communities situated alongside the U.S.–Mexico border are noticeably absent from this body of research, which is problematic as these regions often face unique social and structural challenges.

Method
This retrospective study examined the spatial distribution of a subset of zip code data that represented IV incidences between 2017 and 2022 in the El Paso, Texas region. The source of the IV data was medical records of patients that were seen by sexual assault nurse examiners for IV-related injuries at a Level 1 trauma center.

Results
The retrospective study included 384 IV incidents. In terms of IV survivors' characteristics, the mean age of trauma survivors was 26 years (SD = 14 years), with the majority in the 25- to 59-year age range (39.4%). Most of the survivors were identified as Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish (78.2%). The findings illustrate the uneven spatial distribution of IV incidence rates in El Paso, emphasizing the presence of high-risk zones within the inner city.

Conclusion
This study examined the spatial distribution and characteristics of IV incidents in the El Paso region. The combination of spatial analysis, hotspot identification, and establishment overlay mapping offers a holistic perspective on the spatial dynamics of IV. The identification of hotspots and exploration of regions with high IV occurrence contribute to actionable insights for the development and implementation of targeted interventions. By understanding IV occurrence within the community, forensic nurses can target trauma survivor prevention efforts and integrate education and resources for nurses caring for survivors in emergency situations. In addition, forensic nurses become proactive agents of change, tackling IV at its source with targeted recognition, response, and safety protocols.
The state of prediction models in hematologic disease: a worrisome assessment
Authors: Wang Xichao , Zhang Ke , Wang Lei , Xu Jiaqi , Wang Yamin , Chen Suning , Tang Zaixiang 
Published: February 2025

Purpose of review
The lack of optimal treatments for haematological disorders has led to the need for prediction models for diagnosis, therapeutic decision-making and life planning. In this review, the worrying current state of predictive models in the field is discussed.

Recent findings
Here, we reviewed 100 studies on prediction models in this field. Our analysis revealed a concerning state of affairs, with a prevalence of suboptimal research methodologies and questionable statistical practices. This includes insufficient sample sizes, inadequate model evaluations, lack of necessary reports of model results, etc. In this regard, we present statistical considerations in the development and validation process of numerous models. This will provide the reader with the statistical knowledge related to prediction model necessary to assess bias in studies, compare other published models and determine the clinical utility of models.

Summary
Awareness among authors, reviewers and editors of the required statistical considerations is crucial. Reinforcing these in all studies involving prediction models is needed. We all should encourage their use in evaluating existing studies and taking them fully into account in future studies.
The Predictive Value of Red Cell Distribution Width for the Risk of Sepsis in Patients with Acute Pancreatitis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yang Chao , Cao Haijun , Chen Shanshan , Ye Cheng , Feng Zemin , Zhang Haochen , Xu Li 
Published: February 2025

Objectives:
This study was to evaluate the association between red cell distribution width (RDW) and sepsis in acute pancreatitis (AP) patients, and assess its predictive value for sepsis in AP patients.

Methods:
This retrospective cohort study collected patients’ data from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care databases. Univariate and multivariate Cox models were exploited to compare the mortality within 30 days in AP patients with or without sepsis, with hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to estimate the association, with odds ratios (ORs) and 95%CIs calculated. The predictive value of RDW, white blood cell (WBC) sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA), SOFA+RDW, simplified acute physiology score II (SAPSII), SAPSII+RDW, bedside index of severity in acute pancreatitis (BISAP), BISAP+RDW for sepsis risk in patients with AP were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results:
A total of 327 AP patients developed sepsis. The high RDW level was linked to a higher sepsis risk in patients with AP, carrying a (95% CI) of 1.10. Delong test showed that the area under the curve (AUC) of SOFA+RDW, SAPSII+RDW and BISAP+RDW scoring models were significantly greater than those of SOFA, SAPSII and BISAP scoring models, respectively (0.822 vs 0.776; 0.708 vs 0.688; 0.609 vs 0.550, respectively).

Conclusion:
RDW is not only linked to sepsis risk, but also has a certain additive effect on SOFA, SAPSII and BISAP models, among which SOFA+RDW has the highest discrimination capacity for sepsis in AP patients.
Comparative efficacy of tropicamide 1% and cyclopentolate 1% for cycloplegic refraction: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Bist Jeewanand , Paudel Nabin , Kandel Sandeep , Marasini Sanajay 
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND
Cyclopentolate 1% is considered the drug of choice for effective cycloplegic refraction in clinical population, although tropicamide 1% is also reported to have similar effects with better tolerability.

OBJECTIVES
The objective of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacies of tropicamide 1% and cyclopentolate 1% for cycloplegic refraction.

DATA SOURCES
MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were systematically searched for articles published until March 20, 2024.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA, PARTICIPANTS, AND INTERVENTIONS
Randomized controlled trials that compared tropicamide 1% with cyclopentolate 1% in terms of differences in spherical equivalent refractive errors were included. The meta-analysis included only nonstrabismic participants with no restriction to age.

STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHOD
The included studies were appraised using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool-2. The meta-analysis was conducted using the random-effects model with restricted maximum likelihood estimation method.

RESULTS
Of 17 full-text reviews from 2555 identified studies, 4 randomized controlled trials were included in quantitative synthesis. The meta-analysis included 171 eyes of 171 participants (age range, 4 months to 50 years), in each group, with all types of refractive errors. The results showed no statistically significant differences in mean spherical equivalent refractive error values between the two groups (mean difference, −0.05; standard error, 0.16; p=0.774). There was no heterogeneity observed between the studies (I
2 = 0.00%, p=0.93). The outcome did not change when only children were included in the meta-analysis (age range, 4 months to 16 years; mean difference, −0.14; standard error, 0.21; p=0.508). In the risk-of-bias assessment, generally all studies were judged to have low risk of bias, but only one was judged to have low risk of bias across all seven domains.

CONCLUSIONS
Tropicamide 1% and cyclopentolate 1% showed similar efficacies for cycloplegic refraction in nonstrabismic children and adults. Considering patient tolerability and drug safety, it may be practical to use tropicamide 1% in routine cycloplegic refractions.
Reference values for instrumented Timed Up and Go—outcomes of vertical accelerations and angular velocities in healthy subjects
Authors: Santos Artur César Aquino dos , Matheus Denise , Battistella Linamara Rizzo 
Published: February 2025

Background:
Gait is a fundamental function, and instrumented timed up and go (iTUG) has become a widely used gait analysis tool. Reference values of healthy populations are recommended when assessment technologies are used in clinical settings. The aim of this study is to establish reference values ​​for iTUG subphases (accelerations and angular speeds) among healthy subjects.

Methods:
This is a cross-sectional study with 79 healthy subjects who took the iTUG test with a G-Walk inertial wearable system. The variables of vertical, anteroposterior, and lateral accelerations during the sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit subphases and the average rotation speed during the mid and final turnings were collected from the wearable device and stored in electronic media for analysis. Clinical and demographical characteristics were also collected and tested with simple linear regression as covariables of the gait characteristics. The bootstrapped fifth and 95th percentiles of the parameters were described as the reference values for iTUG measured by G-Walk.

Results:
The study analyzed 79 healthy volunteers. They were mostly women (67.07%), aged 40.40 (SD: 13.21). None of the demographic variables were associated with the iTUG parameters, therefore, no statistical correction was required. Vertical accelerations below 3 m/s2, anteroposterior below 2 m/s2, and lateral accelerations below 1 m/s2 during the sit-to-stand phase and 2 m/s2 during the stand-to-sit phase were considered atypical. Likewise, turnings below 60 deg/s exceed the established reference value.

Conclusions:
Our study established reference values for subphases of the iTUG test measured with the wearable sensor G-Walk for a population of a major urban area.
Immediate effect of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) versus myofascial release technique (MFR) on hamstring flexibility and dynamic balance among young adults
Authors: Saxena Sonali , Aman Ifra , Sonali  , Asif Mohd. , Khan Ghazala , Zutshi Kalpana 
Published: February 2025

Background:
A sedentary lifestyle can lead to many problems like the tightness of muscles, reduced flexibility, and balance hampering the daily activities of an individual. Person with sedentary lifestyle has adaptive changes taking place that can shorten the hip muscles. Limited extensibility of the hamstrings results in changes in the flexibility, and dynamic balance used while moving. Hamstring tightness is one of the factors that affect dynamic balance because it loses the ability to deform while being stretched. Soft tissue restrictions have been linked to poor flexibility and dynamic balance. To increase flexibility and dynamic balance, soft tissue mobilization techniques such as MFR and IASTM have been used. The purpose of this study was to determine the immediate effect of IASTM versus MFR on hamstring flexibility and dynamic balance among young adults.

Methods and Statistical Analysis:
Using the random method of selection, a total of 80 participants was chosen (group A and group B) based on the study’s inclusion criteria and their written consent was taken. A pretest was conducted for flexibility and dynamic balance. MFR and IASTM were given for 3 minutes in group A and group B, respectively, and the post-test was conducted. Statistical analysis was done through SPSS statistics 21.0, and a paired t test was used with an alpha level set at 0.05.

Result:
The study included a total of 80 participants, 40 in group A and 40 in group B. The mean age and BMI were 21.42 (±1.749495) years and 22.055 (±2.105636) kg/m2. Within the group, results showed that the mean for pre and postflexibility and dynamic balance for group A was 21.2023 and 25.8927, pre-right 28.5218, pre-left 28.7091 and post-right 30.2199, post-left 30.4345, respectively. The mean for pre and postflexibility and dynamic balance for group B was 26.0293 and 29.2973, pre-right 28.916, pre-left 28.8195 and post-right 30.6483, post-left 30.4125. Between-group results indicate the group A, precomposite and postcomposite score right [t(29)=−3.731, P=0.001<0.05], precomposite and postcomposite score left [t(29)=−3.334, P=0.002<0.05] and pre and post sit and reach [t(29)=−7.895, P=0.000<0.05] and the group B, precomposite and postcomposite score right [t(29)=−3.585, P=0.01<0.05], pre and post composite score left [t(29)=−5.086, P=0.000<0.05] and pre and post sit and reach [t(29)=−6.328, P=0.000<0.05].

Conclusions:
It has been concluded that both IASTM and MFR has a significant effect on dynamic balance and flexibility but IASTM is more effective to improve the flexibility.
THE EFFECTS OF NEUROMUSCULAR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION ADJUNCT TO LUMBAR STABILIZATION EXERCISES ON MULTIFIDUS MUSCLE THICKNESS, PAIN, DISABILITY, AND PSYCHOSOCIAL STATUS IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN
Authors: Vardar Serenay , Yalcin Gokcenur , Aksungur Selin , Yavuzdemir Muhammet Ali , Unubol Tugba Ozsoy , Ata Emre 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

Objective
To assess the effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation combined with lumbar stabilization exercises on lumbar multifidus muscle thickness, disability, pain, depression, anxiety, and fear-avoidance beliefs in patients with chronic low back pain; and to examine the correlation between ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar multifidus.

Design
Forty patients aged 18-65 years were randomized into two groups: Group 1: exercise and Group 2: exercise + neuromuscular electrical stimulation. The participants underwent 15-session electrical stimulation and/or exercise (3 days/week). All outcome measures assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and 3 months after. Multifidus cross-sectional area on magnetic resonance imaging was measured only at baseline.

Results
Multifidus thickness increased, and pain decreased significantly in both groups, more prominent in Group 2. Disability, depression, and fear-avoidance beliefs scores significantly decreased in both groups, while anxiety decreased only in Group 1. Both magnetic resonance and ultrasound measurements demonstrated excellent inter-rater reliability and statistically significant correlations.

Conclusion
Both groups improved in terms of pain, disability, psychological status and muscle thickness. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation adjunct to lumbar stabilization exercises demonstrated enhanced effectiveness in increasing lumbar multifidus thickness.
Resting-State Functional Connectivity Does Not Predict Individual Differences in Perceived Psychological Stress Among Midlife Adults: Evidence From a Preregistered Cross-Validation Study
Authors: Spencer Chrystal , Rasero Javier , Reed Rebecca G. , Verstynen Timothy D. , Gianaros Peter J. 
Published: February 2025

Objective
It is theorized that appraisals of perceived psychological stress are represented in the brain. However, a neural signature that reliably predicts perceived stress has yet to be fully characterized. Accordingly, the present preregistered study tested whether whole-brain resting-state functional connectivity patterns predict individual differences in perceived stress.

Methods
Participants (N = 417; 53% female; 24.2% non-White; aged 30–54 years) completed the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale and underwent a 5-minute resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging scan. Functional connectivity (FC) was computed between areas distributed across the brain. In total, 19,900 functional connections (edges) were retained for analyses. Cross-validated and multivariate machine learning methods were implemented. Using this approach, two penalized regression models with cross-validation—elastic net and ridge—were conducted to predict perceived stress from the edges.

Results
Across the elastic net and ridge regression models, whole-brain resting-state FC patterns failed to predict individual differences in perceived stress. However, in exploratory analyses, they successfully generalized in cross-validation to predict age for both models (elastic net: r = 0.193, p < .0001, 95% CI = 0.099–0.284, RMSE = 6.661, MAE = 5.715, R
2 = 0.037; ridge: r = 0.197, p < .0001, 95% CI = 0.103–0.287), RMSE = 6.613, MAE = 5.8140, R
2 = 0.039).

Conclusion
These results suggest that resting-state FC patterns may not reliably predict individual differences in self-reported perceived stress among midlife adults.
Associations Between Growth Differentiation Factor 15 and Anxiety and Depression in the General Population: The Akershus Cardiac Examination 1950 Study
Authors: Dypvik Ragnhild , Fjukstad Katrine Kveli , Lydersen Stian , Berge Trygve , Tveit Arnljot , Røsjø Helge , Omland Torbjørn , Einvik Gunnar , Lyngbakken Magnus Nakrem 
Published: February 2025

Objective
Several studies suggest a bidirectional association between inflammation, and anxiety and depression. Elevated inflammatory cytokines generate and aggravate neuroinflammation, which may play a part in developing psychological symptoms. Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) is a novel biomarker possibly reflecting fibrosis and inflammation. The aim of the current study was to investigate the associations between levels of GDF-15 and symptoms of anxiety and depression in the general population.

Methods
We measured GDF-15 in middle-aged persons participating in the Akershus Cardiac Examination 1950 Study. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), with HADS ≥8 denoting significant symptoms. We used multivariable regression analysis to assess the associations between GDF-15 and HADS, adjusting for levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), demographics, and comorbidities.

Results
A total of 3638 participants had valid assessment of HADS and measurements of GDF-15 and CRP. The mean age was 63.9 (SD 0.65) years, and 48.8% were women. In adjusted models, levels of GDF-15 were associated with the continuous HADS-D score (β = 0.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.12 to 0.43) and HADS-D score ≥8 (odds ratio = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.12 to 1.78), but not with the continuous HADS-A score (β = 0.06, 95% CI = −0.12 to 0.24) or HADS-A score ≥8 (odds ratio = 1.06, 95% CI = 0.88 to 1.27).

Conclusions
Levels of GDF-15 are independently associated with symptoms of depression in the general population. Our results reinforce the notion that inflammation may be a contributing factor for the development of clinical depression.

Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01555411 (Akershus Cardiac Examination [ACE] 1950 Study), https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT01555411
Inflammatory and Cardiovascular Responses to Active and Passive Acute Psychological Stress
Authors: Linsley Victoria G. , Bishop Nicolette C. , Roberts Matthew J. , Hamrouni Malik , Demashkieh Mayada , Paine Nicola J. 
Published: February 2025

Objective
Acute psychological stress is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), possibly through promoting a heightened inflammatory profile. Active stressors are commonly used to investigate cardiovascular and immune reactivity; however, this response may not translate to other stress modalities. We aimed to decipher potential differences in immune responses to passive and active stressors.

Methods
Eighty-eight participants completed this study. After a baseline period, a passive (International Affective Picture System [IAPS]) and active stress task (Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test [PASAT]) were completed in a randomized order, with 45-minute rest post-tasks. Cardiovascular measures (including SBP, DBP, HR) were collected continuously. Blood samples were collected after each time point determining inflammatory responses, including circulating and stimulated interleukin-6 (IL-6), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), TNF-α, and P- and E-selectin.

Results
Cardiovascular measures were higher during the PASAT than IAPS (p < .001). Circulating IL-6 levels increased from baseline to 45-minutes after both tasks (p ≤ .001), with no difference between 45-minute post-PASAT and 45-minute post-IAPS (p > .05). SIRI increased from baseline to post-IAPS (p = .013), 45-minute post-IAPS (p = .004), and 45-minute post-PASAT (p < .001). No difference in SIRI between 45-minute post-PASAT and 45-minute post-IAPS existed. NLR increased from baseline to 45-minute post-PASAT (p = .008). There were no significant time effects for TNF-α, P-selectin, or E-selectin (all p > .05).

Conclusion
Both stressors increased circulating IL-6 levels and SIRI. Cardiovascular measures were higher during the active task, but the magnitude of inflammatory responses did not significantly differ between tasks. Regardless of stress modality, an immune response ensues, potentially increasing the risk of CVD over time.
Supporting the implementation of Osteoarthritis Management Programs in low-and middle-income settings: Understanding clinician training outcomes alongside perceived program barriers and facilitators in Malawi
Authors: Mkumbuzi Nonhlanhla S. , Jiya Esther , Chisati Enock M. , Kemp Joanne L. , Barton Christian , Ezzat Allison 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACTObjectiveTo examine Malawian physiotherapists’ knowledge and beliefs about Osteoarthritis (OA) and their perceived capabilities to deliver an Osteoarthritis Management Program (OMP) to people with knee and hip OA; and to identify OMP barriers and facilitators in Malawi.DesignTwo-phased mixed methods formative evaluationMethodsPhase 1: Malawian physiotherapists participated in the GLA:D®Australia training course and answered quantitative pre-and-post course questions that were descriptively summarized, and analysed using McNemar’s test, where appropriate. Phase 2: semi-structured focus groups generated qualitative data that were thematically analysed and mapped to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Mixed methods data were integrated through triangulation.ResultsEleven Malawian physiotherapists [9 (82%) female, 10 (91%) with 5–10 years clinical experience] participated. Post training course, participants’ knowledge of OA management increased regarding the benefits of therapeutic exercise (p=0.002), importance of weight management (p=0.004), and acceptable symptoms profile (p=0.008). Participants’ confidence and beliefs in managing knee and hip OA also increased. Implementation barriers included program costs, current medical management of OA with painkillers, and infrastructure challenges. Implementation facilitators included the content and organisation of GLA:D®, the ability to adapt the program, and OA awareness and education among other health professionals.ConclusionKnowledge, confidence, and beliefs in managing knee and hip OA improved post GLA:D®training in Malawian physiotherapists. Increasing education of physiotherapists, other health professionals and the general public about evidence-based OA management and making contextual adaptions to the GLA:D®training and program structure may facilitate future implementation of OMP, such as GLA:D®, in low-and-middle income countries.