bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical Guideline for Preimplantation Genetic Testing in Inherited Cardiac Diseases
Authors: Verdonschot Job A.J. , Hellebrekers Debby M.E.I. , van Empel Vanessa P.M. , Heijligers Malou , de Munnik Sonja , Coonen Edith , Dreesen Jos C.M.F. , van den Wijngaard Arthur , Brunner Han G. , Zamani Esteki Masoud , Heymans Stephane R.B. , de Die-Smulders Christine E.M. , Paulussen Aimée D.C. 
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:
Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is a reproductive technology that selects embryos without (familial) genetic variants. PGT has been applied in inherited cardiac disease and is included in the latest American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology guidelines. However, guidelines selecting eligible couples who will have the strongest risk reduction most from PGT are lacking. We developed an objective decision model to select eligibility for PGT and compared its results with those from a multidisciplinary team.

METHODS:
All couples with an inherited cardiac disease referred to the national PGT center were included. A multidisciplinary team approved or rejected the indication based on clinical and genetic information. We developed a decision model based on published risk prediction models and literature, to evaluate the severity of the cardiac phenotype and the penetrance of the familial variant in referred patients. The outcomes of the model and the multidisciplinary team were compared in a blinded fashion.

RESULTS:
Eighty-three couples were referred for PGT (1997–2022), comprising 19 different genes for 8 different inherited cardiac diseases (cardiomyopathies and arrhythmias). Using our model and proposed cutoff values, a definitive decision was reached for 76 (92%) couples, aligning with 95% of the multidisciplinary team decisions. In a prospective cohort of 11 couples, we showed the clinical applicability of the model to select couples most eligible for PGT.

CONCLUSIONS:
The number of PGT requests for inherited cardiac diseases increases rapidly, without the availability of specific guidelines. We propose a 2-step decision model that helps select couples with the highest risk reduction for cardiac disease in their offspring after PGT.
Contact, Diffusion and Divergence
Authors: Satyanath Shobha 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The study discusses the outcomes of the contact and diffusion in two contact varieties of Assamese with respect to classifiers. The findings suggest that while classifiers have remained remarkably stable in their characteristics in Assamese over the past 160 years, during the same period, one of the contact varieties (Nagamese) has significantly diverged from the source language, and the other variety (Nefamese) displays greater continuity. The divergence in Nagamese is attributed to the substratal effect which has altered its characteristics associated with numerals and quantifiers in the source language, thereby making it more congruent with the host Naga languages. By concentrating on a smaller part of the region spanning three contiguous states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Nagaland from Northeastern India, the findings also help unlock in small ways the mysteries surrounding the diversity of classifiers arising out of areal diffusion.
Power-law Behaviour and Inequality in the Upper Tail of Wealth, Income and Consumption: Evidence from India
Authors: Kumar Rishabh 
Published: March 2024

This article analyses the upper tails of wealth, income and consumption in India over the period 2012–2018 using rich lists, wealth surveys, income tax returns and consumer expenditure surveys. We find the upper tail to obey a power-law in all three economic resources. Comparing our estimates in 2012—where we possess data on wealth, income and consumption simultaneously—we find that the upper tail of wealth is most concentrated, income slightly less, and consumption is much less concentrated. Unlike wealth and income, the Pareto coefficients for consumption are estimated to have a well-defined mean and variance. Our findings are suggestive of convex saving functions in the income distribution. JEL Codes: D31, O16, O53
Incidence of Complications After Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy and Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy With Distalization
Authors: Shah Aakash K. , Uppstrom Tyler J. , Rizy Morgan E. , Gomoll Andreas H. , Strickland Sabrina M. 
Published: March 2024

Background: Tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) is a well-established surgical treatment option for patellofemoral instability and pain. TTO with distalization (TTO-D) is indicated for patients with patellofemoral instability, patellar malalignment, and patella alta. The current literature demonstrates several complications that may be associated with TTO, with reportedly higher rates of complications associated with TTO-D. Purpose: To analyze and compare complication rates after TTO without distalization (TTO-ND) and TTO-D and assess risk factors associated with complications. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: All skeletally mature patients who underwent TTO with or without distalization by a single surgeon between September 2014 and May 2023 with a minimum of 6 months of clinical follow-up were retrospectively reviewed. Patient factors, surgical indications, perioperative data, and complications were collected via a retrospective review of electronic medical records. Concomitant procedures were categorized as intra-articular, extra-articular, and osteotomies. Results: A total of 251 TTOs (117 TTO-D, 134 TTO-ND) were included in the study group. Postoperative complications were observed in 15 operations (6%), with arthrofibrosis as the most common complication (10 operations [4%]). TTO-D and TTO-ND had similar rates of complication (5% vs 7%; P = .793). Clinical nonunion was observed in 3 operations (3%) in the TTO-D cohort and 1 operation (1%) in the TTO-ND cohort. In the TTO-D cohort, concomitant intra-articular procedures were significantly associated with an increased likelihood of complications in a univariate model. In the TTO-ND cohort, an increased tourniquet time was significantly associated with an increased likelihood of complications in a univariate model. For all TTOs as well as the TTO-D and TTO-ND cohorts, there were no significant associations between patient or surgical variables in a multivariate model. Conclusion: TTO with and without distalization is a safe procedure with low rates of complication. TTO-D was not associated with a higher rate of complications compared with TTO-ND. There was no association between complications and surgical variables for TTO procedures.
An investigation of the ballistic impact behavior of multi-layered armor structure
Authors: Alam Shah , Nguyen Diem 
Published: March 2024

In this research, a multi-layered composite armor was introduced by combining ceramics, fiber-reinforced composite and metal alloy with the aim of making the armor capable of resisting ballistic impact. A model was developed in ABAQUS/Explicit to predict the impact performance of armor in different scenarios. A thinner version of the proposed structure was manufactured, and experiments were conducted. Data were collected and analyzed including initial and residual velocity and absorbed kinetic energy. The experiments and simulations showed similarities in how the materials response to the ballistic impact. It was found that the thickness of each component contributes to the total ballistic resistance of the whole structure. By putting 20 mm thick Boron carbide layer in front layer, armor structure can absorb more kinetic energy than having 10 mm thick Boron carbide front layer. The sequence order of layers also affected the protection of armor structure. If the front layer is Kevlar/epoxy, armor structure cannot withstand multi-hit attacks because of significant delamination in these layers. Also, the Boron carbide core that had Kevlar/epoxy layer in the front was more shattered than the Boron carbide front layer that had Kevlar/epoxy as the core layer. By applying cohesive layers between Kevlar/epoxy layers, the displacement of fibers in the bonded composite layers was equal to 68% of the displacement of fibers in the unbonded Kevlar/epoxy layers. Also, the multi-layer structure with bonded Kevlar/epoxy layers exerted more stress on projectile after impact compared to structure with unbonded Kevlar/epoxy layers.
Modal and random vibration responses of composite overwrapped pressure vessels with various geodesic dome trajectories
Authors: Coskun Taner , Sahin Omer Sinan 
Published: March 2024

In the current study, Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels (COPVs) with various geodesic dome profiles have been built and their modal and random vibration responses were numerically examined. In this regard, geodesic dome profiles were established for five different polar opening radii of 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 mm, and thus the impacts of fibre orientations on vibration characteristics depending on the filament winding trajectories were discovered. Furthermore, non-prestressed modal and random vibration responses for COPVs, as well as prestressed vibration behaviours under 50, 100, and 150 Bar internal pressure, were investigated and thus the effects of internal pressure severity on dynamic characteristics were identified. The study found that higher polar opening radius triggered a reduction in the natural frequencies, and these reductions were linked to an increment in the filament winding angle, and a consequent deterioration in the structural stiffness of COPVs. On the other hand, raising the internal pressure severity shifts the natural frequencies to higher frequencies, which are also attributed to ascended structural stiffness. Furthermore, it was established that internal pressure severity and polar opening radius had a coupled effects on the modal and random responses, and that both parameters should be evaluated simultaneously.
Trusted Sources of Information and COVID-19 Vaccination Among Black Adults in Chicago
Authors: Hirschtick Jana L. , Walsh Jennifer L. , DiFranceisco Wayne , Jacobs Jacquelyn , Hunt Bijou , Valencia Jesus , Quinn Katherine 
Published: March 2024

Purpose Examine trust in sources of COVID-19 information and vaccination status. Design Cross-sectional. Setting Chicago, Illinois. Subjects Convenience sample of 538 Black adults surveyed between September 2021 and March 2022. Measures Trust in sources of COVID-19 information, COVID-19 vaccination. Analysis Using latent class analysis, we identified classes of trust in sources of COVID-19 information. We considered predictors of class membership using multinomial logistic regression and examined unadjusted and adjusted associations between trust class membership and COVID-19 vaccination while accounting for uncertainty in class assignment. Results Our analytic sample (n = 522) was predominantly aged 18-34 (52%) and female (71%). Results suggested a four-class solution: (1) low trust, (2) high trust in all sources, (3) high trust in doctor and government, and (4) high trust in doctor, faith leader, and family. Unadjusted odds of vaccination were greater in the high trust in all sources (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.2-3.2), high trust in doctor and government (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.4-5.3), and high trust in doctor, faith leader, and family classes (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2, 3.9) than the low trust class. However, these associations were not significant after adjustment for sociodemographic and health status factors. Conclusion Although COVID-19 vaccination varied across trust classes, our adjusted findings do not suggest a direct association between trust and vaccination, reflecting complexities in the vaccine decision-making process.
Epidemiological, immunological, and treatment response profile of patients with lupus nephritis in Brazil
Authors: Nunes Mariana Sousa Teixeira , Barbosa Jorge Lectícia , Yu Luis , Woronik Viktoria , Bitencourt Dias Cristiane 
Published: March 2024

Background and hypothesis Brazil has the largest number of individuals of African descent outside Africa and a very admixed population. Among cases of lupus nephritis (LN) in the country, there are differences in incidence, and even in severity, depending on the location and characteristics of the population studied. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of LN in Brazil, as well as to determine which of those characteristics would be risk factors for a poor renal prognosis. Methods This was a retrospective, descriptive observational study of patients diagnosed with LN who underwent kidney biopsy between 1999 and 2015 in the Nephrology Department of the Hospital das Clínicas, in São Paulo, Brazil. Data were collected from electronic medical records. Results We evaluated 398 patients, among who 94.1% and 77.7% tested positive for antinuclear antibodies and anti-DNA antibodies, respectively, whereas 33.7% showed the full-house pattern. The time from LN symptom onset to biopsy was <6 months in 47.5% (early biopsy group) and ≥6 months in 52.5% (late biopsy group). In the early biopsy group, the chronicity index was lower and the activity index was higher. Multivariate analysis showed that a higher chronicity index was the only independent risk factor for progression to requiring kidney replacement therapy. Conclusion Late biopsy seems to be associated with negative renal outcomes in LN. However, it seems that a higher chronicity index is the main predictor of a poor renal outcome among patients with LN in Brazil.
The use of belimumab on patients with both systemic lupus erythematosus and immune thrombocytopenia: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wu Qi , Zhao Ming-Xue , Huang Xiao-Shan , Lin Chang-song , Xu Qiang 
Published: March 2024

Objective The objective of this study is to provide a description of a group of retrospective cohort outcomes in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) complicated with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) receiving belimumab. Methods This study reports on the treatment of 10 female patients (mean age 34.3 ± 14.0 years, mean weight 58.7 ± 18.2 kg) with both SLE and ITP who received belimumab in addition to basic drug therapy. The belimumab treatment regimen consisted of a dosage of 10 mg/kg, with an initial infusion every 2 weeks for the first 3 doses, followed by an infusion every 4 weeks. Results Ten patients were included in the study. The overall response rate of thrombocytopenia was 90% after treatment. The parameters such as platelet count, lymphocyte count, erythrocyte count, hemoglobin, dsDNA, C3, and C4 were significantly improved ( p < .05). The SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), British Islet lupus Assessment Group 2004 (BILAG-2004), and Physician Global assessment (PGA) scores were significantly decreased ( p < .05). There were no significant differences in glutamic pyruvic transaminase (ALT), glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (AST), and serum creatinine (Scr) before and after treatment ( p > .05). Conclusion Belimumab shows promising clinical outcomes in the treatment on patients with both SLE and ITP. Further studies are needed to validate these findings in larger patient populations and compare the efficacy of belimumab with other treatments for SLE complicated with ITP. Long-term response rates and adverse events associated with belimumab treatment also warrant further investigation.
Measurement of Nuchal Translucency Thickness in First Trimester Ultrasound Foetal Images Using Markov Random Field
Authors: Chaudhari Kalyani , Oza Shruti 
Published: March 2024

Background The first-trimester ultrasound assessment of nuchal translucency (NT) thickness has lately been recommended as the most helpful sign in early screening for prenatal chromosomal disorders. Increased foetal NT thickness between 11 and 13+6 weeks of gestation is a frequent phenotypic manifestation of chromosomal abnormalities as well as a variety of foetal deformities and genetic disorders. Purpose At the moment, clinicians conduct the measurement manually. The measurement may take a long time to complete, requires highly competent operators, and is susceptible to mistakes. So, an automatic method is required for NT measurement. Materials and Methods This study proposes a Markov random Field-based approach for contextually segmenting the NT area from foetal pictures and offering a quick and inexpensive diagnostic even during the early stages of pregnancy. Results Proposed method gives maximum NT thickness error 0.03 and minimum NT thickness error 0.04. Conclusion The proposed research work developed a prototype for an automated NT thickness measuring system. This study proposes an MRF-based model for segmentation and detection of NT area from foetal pictures which gives error is less than other methods.
PICC insertion and veins of the arm size variation during dialysis treatment: A prospective observational study
Authors: Ajello Elena , Arresta Antonio , Rutili Riccardo , Aronica Salvatore , Lorenzo Rigo , Monti Elia , Galletti Martina , Cannizzo Luigi , Giannini Luciano , Lucchini Alberto , Pieruzzi Federico , Elli Stefano 
Published: March 2024

Background: Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters play an increasingly important role in Central Venous Access Devices. However, the use of these devices should be carefully considered in specific situations such as central catheterisation in patients with chronic kidney disease. When evaluating the feasibility of placement for a patient undergoing dialysis, the relationship between changes in circulating volume before and after dialysis treatment, and potential variations in the size of deep veins in the upper limbs, should be considered. Materials: Upper limb veins, specifically the basilic or brachial veins, were identified and measured before and after dialysis treatment. Patient data and weight loss data during dialysis treatment were also collected. Linear regression analysis was performed to assess the correlation between the variables. Results: The average variation in vein size for the entire sample was +0.17 ± 0.43 mm. The mean volume removed was 2.2 ± 0.8 l. In subgroup 1 (fluid volume loss <2000 ml), the population experienced a decrease in the measured vein size after dialysis. In subgroup 2 (fluid volume loss ⩾2000 ml), the population experienced an increase in the measured vein size after dialysis. Conclusions: Upper arm vascular access placement in dialysed patients with fluid removal of less than 2000 ml should be performed after the dialysis session. Conversely, in dialysed patients with fluid removal of more than 2000 ml, where a significant increase in vein size was observed, vascular access placement should be performed before the dialysis session when the veins are smaller. Additionally, it should be noted that in patients with chronic kidney disease, the venous system of the upper limbs should be preserved as much as possible to prevent thrombosis and stenosis in potential arteriovenous fistula creation.
Comparison of Fusion Rates/Complications Between Different Types of Thumb Metacarpophalangeal Fusion Techniques
Authors: Finger Logan E. , Hamaker Max C. , Singh-Varma Anya , Goitz Robert J. , Kaufmann Robert A. , Fowler John R. 
Published: March 2024

Background: Thumb metacarpophalangeal (MP) fusion is generally successful; however, complications have been reported to occur in 0% to 30% of cases, whereas nonunion rates vary by method but, overall, are reported to occur in 0% to 15% of cases. Many fixation techniques have been described, but there is no consensus on the optimal fusion technique. Our goal was to compare complication and union rates of different thumb MP arthrodesis techniques. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent primary thumb MP fusion between 2000 and 2022. Patients who underwent revision fusion, fusion for infection, or amputation were excluded. Fusions of MP joints of other fingers were also excluded. Data collection consisted of demographic data, complications, time to fusion, rate of delayed union and rate of nonunion. Five different fusion constructs were evaluated during our study period: staples, Kirschner wires (K-wires), cerclage, K-wires with cerclage, and intramedullary screw. Results: Forty-seven patients underwent fusion with staples, 16 with K-wires, 14 with cerclage, 9 with K-wires and cerclage, and 6 with an intramedullary screw. The individual complication and nonunion rates differed significantly among the groups with the intramedullary screw group having a statistically higher rate of nonunion ( P = .004). Furthermore, smoking, diabetes, and being overweight were associated with nonunions. Conclusion: Union rates were significantly lower in patients treated with an intramedullary screw and those who are smokers, diabetics, and/or overweight. Caution should be exercised when using intramedullary screw fixation for MP fusion, especially in patients with these comorbidities.
RapidpulseTM cyclic aspiration system for acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusions
Authors: Bajrami Arsida , Geyik Serdar , Ertugrul Ozgur , Erdem Eren , Gallego Leon Jose I , Barbieri Giorgio , Dominguez Rodriguez Carlos , Rayón-Aledo Jose Carlos , Barra Antonio I Sagredo , Blanco Fernando S Sanchez , Candel Carmen Serna , Montalverne Francisco Jose , Andrade Lidemarcks I , Bandeira Diego , Bezerra Jose , Carm Hellen , Silva Henrique Coelho , Braga Cruz Guedes de Morais Alessandra , de Lucena Adson Freitas , Lima Fabricio O , Mendes George , Rocha Felipe A , Kupcs Karlis , Kidikas Helmuts , Vetra Janis , Gal Gyula , Diaz Anabel , Nogueira Raul G 
Published: March 2024

Background The best strategy to achieve optimal reperfusion outcomes during mechanical thrombectomy remains to be defined. The RapidPulseTM Cyclic Aspiration System is a novel technology, delivering high-frequency pulsed vacuum forces to increase the efficiency of aspiration thrombectomy. Methods Prospective, multicenter, open-label, core lab-adjudicated, two-arm study comparing safety and efficacy of a feasibility version of the RapidPulseTM system compared with contemporary controls. Primary endpoint was the rate of mTICI ≥ 2c after first-pass effect (FPE). Additional efficacy endpoints were the rates of mTICI [Formula: see text] 2b after first pass (modified FPE (mFPE)), last pass with study device defined as frontline technical success, and after all passes including rescue therapy. The primary safety endpoints included symptomatic ICH (sICH) within 24 h post-procedure. Results Between February 2022 to December 2022, 80 subjects were consented and enrolled in the study (n = 40 treatment arm, n = 40 control arm). In the intent to treat (ITT) population, mean age was 67.8 ± 11.5 years; 19 (47.5%) were male. Median NIHSS score was 16 (IQR: 13–22). Median ASPECTS score was 9 (IQR: 8–10). The rate of mTICI ≥ 2c after first pass was 53.9% in ITT population (60.0% in per-protocol population) versus 38.5% in the corresponding control population. Functional independence (mRS 0-2) at 90 days was achieved in 61.1% (22/36) in the RapidPulseTM arm and 52.8% (19/36) in the control arm. In the RapidPulseTM arm, no sICH within 24 h and no device-related morbidity or mortality occurred. Conclusion Preliminary data suggests RapidPulseTM Aspiration System is highly effective and safe for recanalization of large vessel occlusions.