bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Impact of the Massachusetts Temporary Flavor Ban on Licensed Tobacco Retailers
Authors: Nali Matthew C , Purushothaman Vidya , Li Zhuoran , Cuomo Raphael , Mackey Tim K 
Published: July 2023

Introduction In 2019, the state of Massachusetts signed into law the first statewide sales restrictions of flavored ENDS/tobacco products for both physical and online shops in response to a previous executive order to curb E-Cigarette, or Vaping Product, Use Associated Lung Injury (EVALI) cases that were surging throughout the nation. Methodology This study obtained licensure data from the Massachusetts Department of Revenue, to observe the changes in retail licensure comparing the pre ban (October 2018-August 2019) and post ban periods (October 2020- August 2021). A series of linear regression tests were conducted on both periods using census tract data to explore potential associations with sociodemographic covariates, including median age, median household income, and population proportion by gender, age, and race/ethnicity groups. Results Analysis of the Massachusetts post-ban period (October 2020-August 2021) found that new tobacco retail licenses issued decreased by 52.9% (n = 968) when compared to the pre-ban period (October 2018-August 2019) of 1831. A significant positive association was discovered between change in new retailer count and proportion male population (2.48 ± 1.05, P = .018) as well as proportion Hispanic population (1.19 ± .25, P < .001) at the census tract level. Conclusion/Discussion Our analysis indicates that, following the temporary MA flavor sales ban, the total number of licenses decreased, though decreases were more pronounced for new licenses when compared to continuing licenses. Higher increases in new tobacco retailer density were significantly associated with concentration of male and Hispanic populations.
Evaluation of the Preoperative Slide Test in the Prediction of Intra-Abdominal Adhesions: A Single-Center, Double-Blinded, Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Ozturk Ugur K. , Keles Esra , Akış Serkan , Alınca Cihat M. , Acar Sami , Ozyurek Sefik E. , Api Murat 
Published: July 2023

Background To evaluate the efficacy of the preoperative ultrasonographic sliding sign in predicting intra-abdominal adhesions. Methods This was a single-center, double-blinded, prospective observational study undertaken from March and September 2021 on 110 patients with a history of previous abdominal surgery. All patients who were scheduled for laparoscopy underwent slide test in 5 zones of abdomen: right lower quadrant, left lower quadrant, previous operation site, vesicouterine pouch, and rectovaginal pouch. Adhesions were assessed by the same gynecologic surgeon using ultrasonography before the surgery and by gynecological surgeons during surgery, and by a third gynecologic surgeon to compare the preoperative slide test findings and laparoscopic findings after the surgery. Results Seventy-three (66.4%) patients underwent laparoscopic surgery, and 37 (33.6%) patients underwent laparotomy. The mean age of patients was 46.9 ± 1.0 years. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of preoperative ultrasonography in predicting adhesions were 89.5%, 91.7%, 97.5%, and 71.0%, respectively. The accuracy of the slide test was calculated as 90.0%. It was found that as the total number of cesarean sections increased the estimates of vesicouterine adhesions and actual adhesions increased ( P = .008). Also, the prediction of intra-abdominal adhesions and actual adhesions significantly increased as the total number of surgical operations increased ( P = .002). Conclusions Intra-abdominal adhesions can be detected with the slide test, which is a non-invasive and well-tolerated procedure. Slide test can guide the physician before the elective operation in patients with previous abdominal surgery and may assist in counseling patients.
Rapid Functional Recovery After Thoracic Outlet Decompression in a Series of Adolescent Athletes With Chronic Atraumatic Shoulder-Girdle Pain, Scapular Winging/Dyskinesis, and Normal Electrodiagnostic Studies
Authors: Burton Jackson S. , Mackinnon Susan E. , McKee Paul B. , Henderson Karen M. , Goestenkors Danita M. , Thompson Robert W. 
Published: July 2023

Background: Spontaneous shoulder-girdle pain and scapular winging/dyskinesis can be caused by several neuromuscular disorders identifiable by electrodiagnostic studies (EDX). We describe a group of adolescent athletes with this clinical presentation but normal EDX, followed by later development of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS). Methods: We identified patients referred for evaluation of NTOS that had a history of chronic atraumatic shoulder-girdle pain, scapular winging/dyskinesis, and normal EDX. Each was refractory to conservative management and underwent supraclavicular decompression and brachial plexus neurolysis for NTOS. Functional disability was quantified by Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) scores. Results: There were 5 female patients with a mean age at symptom onset of 14.2 ± 0.4 years, including spontaneous severe pain in the shoulder, scapula, and arm, along with prominent scapular winging/dyskinesis, and normal EDX. Symptoms had persisted for 18.9 ± 4.0 months prior to referral, with pronounced upper extremity disability (mean QuickDASH, 54.6 ± 6.9). By 3 months after surgical treatment for NTOS, all 5 patients experienced near-complete symptom resolution, including scapular winging/dyskinesis, with markedly improved function (mean QuickDASH, 2.2 ± 1.3) and a return to normal activity. Conclusions: A subset of patients with chronic atraumatic shoulder-girdle pain, scapular winging/dyskinesis, and normal EDX may develop dynamic brachial plexus compression characteristic of NTOS, exhibiting an ischemic “Sunderland-zero” nerve conduction block for which surgical decompression can result in rapid and substantial clinical improvement. The presence of surgically treatable NTOS should be considered for selected patients with long-standing scapular winging/dyskinesis who fail conservative management.
FGF21 promotes angiotensin II-induced abdominal aortic aneurysm via PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway
Authors: Gu Xuefeng , Li Qi , Qian Tianwei , Hu Qi , Gu Jianfeng , Ding Wei , Li Ming , Wang Ming , Lu Huan , Tao Ke 
Published: July 2023

Background Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a potentially fatal vascular disorder with a high mortality rate. It was previously reported that fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) was highly expressed in AAA patients. Nonetheless, its underlying mechanism in AAA progression is unclarified. Methods Angiotensin II (Ang-II) was used to induce AAA in human aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) and mouse models. Western blotting and RT-qPCR were utilized for measuring protein and RNA levels. Immunofluorescence staining was utilized for detecting LC3B expression in HASMCs. Elastica van Gieson staining was conducted for histological analysis of the abdominal aortas of mice. Results FGF21 displayed a high level in Ang-II-stimulated HASMCs and AAA mice. FGF21 depletion ameliorated abdominal aorta dilation and Ang-II-triggered pathological changes in mice. FGF21 silencing hindered autophagy and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Conclusions FGF21 contributes to AAA progression by enhancing autophagy and activating PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.
Medication adherence among patients with cardiovascular diseases: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Subih Maha M , Abu Saleh Fadwa , Malak Malakeh Z 
Published: July 2023

Background: Medication adherence has been recognised as one of the greatest areas to improve health outcomes and reduce health expenditure. Poor medication adherence has multifactorial causes that need to be understood. Aim: To determine the levels of medication adherence and examine the factors associated with medication adherence among patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in Jordan. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive correlational design was used to conduct this study. A convenience sample was used to recruit 250 patients with CVDs from outpatient clinics of Jordanian hospitals. Data were collected using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, in addition to sociodemographic and clinical-related factors during the period from June to September 2019. Results: It was found that the total mean score of medication adherence was 2.84 (standard deviation = 1.9), which reflected low adherence. A significant positive correlation was found between medication adherence and marital status and the number of diseases. However, smoking was negatively correlated with medication adherence. Smoking was the predictor of medication adherence. Conclusions: Medication adherence among patients with CVDs needs to be improved. Thus, healthcare professionals should develop strategies and interventions based on identifying factors to enhance medication adherence among those patients.
Systematic review of access to healthcare and social services among US women Veterans experiencing homelessness
Authors: Flike Kimberlee , Byrne Thomas 
Published: July 2023

Background: Studies suggest female Veterans are under-identified as homeless in the VA healthcare system, which may impact their ability to access necessary services. In addition, the increasing number of female Veterans experiencing homelessness requires a better understanding of their access to necessary healthcare and social care. Objectives: The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the barriers and facilitators for access to healthcare and social care among women Veterans experiencing homelessness. Design: A mixed methods systematic review was conducted and includes quantitative and qualitative primary research studies. Data sources and methods: Seven databases were searched for quantitative or qualitative research studies. Studies which addressed access or use of healthcare or social services, which were focused on female Veterans or allowed for comparison between male and female Veterans were included. Data were synthesized using a convergent integrated approach. Results: Thirty-five studies met inclusion criteria; 27 quantitative, 6 qualitative and 2 mixed methods studies. Three main themes resulted: (1) the comparison of access and use of healthcare and social services between women and men; (2) female specific barriers to access or use of social and health services; (3) female specific facilitators to access or use of social and health services. Conclusions: Results showed although women Veterans had similar or better outcomes with permanent housing programming compared to men, gaps remain in the provision of emergency and short-term housing accommodations. In addition, many studies found that homeless women Veterans were unaware of the healthcare and social services available through the VA. Programs and policies need to ensure they are maximizing their reach to women Veterans experiencing homelessness by providing outreach and education, so they understand the benefits available when they discharge from the military and to understand the unique healthcare and social needs of women Veterans.
How Visibility May Reduce Security Issues in Community Hospitals’ Emergency Departments
Authors: Gharaveis Arsalan , Hamilton D. Kirk , Pati Debajyoti , Shepley Mardelle McCuskey , Rodiek Susan , McCall Denise 
Published: July 2023

This research explored the relationship between visibility and the level of security risks as perceived by nurses and physicians in emergency departments (EDs). Security in EDs has been reported as a major global concern, and visibility has been identified as a design factor impacting behavior. However, few previous studies have rigorously investigated the role of visibility in reduction of ED security risks with evidence-based design approach. There is a lot of significant questions about how visibility impacts the reduction of security issues in EDs. Methods: How visibility may influence ED security was explored via qualitative methods in five EDs using semi-structured one-on-one interviews with 17 clinical staff and 48 hr of field observations. The coding process for both interviews and observational notes followed the principles of naturalistic inquiry. Results: The findings suggest security risks can be decreased by improving visibility. Medical staff (registered nurses and physicians) felt more secure in the EDs with higher visibility. Discussion: This study provides a framework to identify preferable levels of visibility in EDs and proposes design strategies to minimize security issues. Registered nurses and physicians can improve their team’s sense of security by considering visibility throughout their daily practices.
Setting priorities in health: The managers' perspectives versus general public
Authors: Araújo Nuno , Reis Ana Maria , Borges Ana , Neves José Maia , Rosa Alvaro 
Published: July 2023

Introduction Decision-makers are constantly confronted with the need of balancing limited resources while establishing rationing criteria in health care system. However, there is an emerging trend in involving citizens in rationing debates as mechanism to assuring legitimacy in the decision-making process. This paper aims to explore citizens’ opinions on priority setting in health care access in comparison with the perspectives of managers. Methods An online questionnaire was used to collect the data. A logistic regression was applied to evaluate factors that shape the prioritisation of groups in access to health care services. The collected data comprehends 400 individuals, aged 18 years old and over living in continental Portugal. Results The study results reveal that managers and the general public, in the context of limited resources, both agree with the need to prioritise some groups over others in access to health care services. The priority groups would include the elderly, children, and people with chronic conditions. The most outstanding finding is that managers prefer children as their first priority group against the general public who has considered as top priority the elder ones. Discussion This study identified which stakeholders are prone to be included in decision-making processes for effective priority-setting models in the health care systems and evaluated their preferences.
Feasibility of Internet-Based Physical-Cognitive Exercise for Health Benefits of Middle-Aged Obese Women
Authors: Keawtep Puntarik , Kamnardsiri Teerawat , Boripuntakul Sirinun , Wichayanrat Wanachaporn , Worakul Puangsoi , Sungkarat Somporn 
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Obesity in middle-aged women markedly increases the risk for non-communicable diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and physical and cognitive problems. Exercise, particularly combined physical-cognitive exercise, has been demonstrated to have beneficial effects on both physical and cognitive health. However, middle-aged women often face barriers to engaging in exercise, which include time constraints, lack of motivation, and enjoyment. Incorporating an exercise program into a technology-based intervention in the home environment may help overcome these barriers and promote health benefits. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the feasibility of home-based, physical-cognitive internet-based exercise for middle-aged obese women. Methods: A total of 33 middle-aged obese women were enrolled in the study. Participants performed an intervention for 60 min/day, 3 days/week for 3 months. Feasibility outcomes (adherence, adverse events, physical performances, obesity parameters, and enjoyment of the program) were measured. Results: Average exercise adherence was 91.67%, and no adverse events were reported in this feasibility study. At the end of the training period, body weight and BMI were significantly decreased compared to baseline. As for physical performances, both cardiorespiratory fitness and lower limb muscle power were significantly improved at post-training when compared to baseline. Furthermore, the participants experienced a high level of exercise enjoyment, and it was maintained over the 3-month training period. Conclusion: These findings suggest that home-based, internet-based physical-cognitive exercise was safe and feasible for reducing obesity parameters, improving physical function, maintaining enjoyment over the course of training, and facilitating adherence to exercise in middle-aged obese women.
Outcomes After Open Latarjet in Patients With or Without SLAP Lesions
Authors: Billaud Anselme , Garcia-Maya Beatriz , Pesquer Lionel , Pillot Sabine 
Published: July 2023

Background: Up to 20% of shoulders with anterior instability are associated with superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesions, and they remain untreated after an open Latarjet procedure. SLAP lesions can be responsible for pain and feelings of instability in high-demand patients. Purpose/Hypothesis: The aim of this study was to compare the early functional outcomes and return to sport rates in athletes after the Latarjet procedure with versus without associated SLAP lesions. It was hypothesized that untreated SLAP lesions would not influence clinical results. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Inclusion criteria were athletes with anterior shoulder instability treated with Latarjet procedure, a minimum follow-up of 1 year, and an available preoperative computed tomography arthrogram. We recorded patient characteristics; type of sport; bone loss; Rowe, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE), and 11-item Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) scores; 5-point pain and satisfaction scores; reported apprehension; and return to sport. Patients with and without a preoperative type 5 SLAP lesion on imaging were compared. Results: Fifty patients were included (mean age, 22 ± 5 years [range, 16-36 years]; mean follow-up, 27 ± 9 months [range, 12-42 months]). Thirty-four patients practiced contact sports, including 20 rugby players. Twelve patients (24%) had a preoperative SLAP lesion. Groups with (+) and without (–) a SLAP lesion were comparable in terms of age, sex, number of instability episodes, type of sport, and glenoid and humeral bone loss. The SLAP+ group had significantly worse outcomes with a lower Rowe score (79 ± 23 vs 91 ± 15; P = .018) and painless rate (50% vs 77%; P = .04). There were no significant differences between the groups in SANE score (SLAP+ vs SLAP–: 80% vs 87%), QuickDASH score (8% vs 8%), return to sport (83% vs 91%), apprehension (79% vs 50%), and reported satisfaction. There was 1 episode of postoperative subluxation in each group. Conclusion: Patients who underwent an open Latarjet procedure with an associated SLAP tear more frequently reported postoperative pain than those without a SLAP lesion. Patients with untreated SLAP tears had significantly lower Rowe scores, although SANE score and return to sport were not significantly different between the groups.
Accuracy of a Smartphone Software Application Compared With a Handheld Goniometer for Measuring Shoulder Range of Motion in Asymptomatic Adults
Authors: Soeters Rupali , Damodar Dhanur , Borman Nicole , Jacobson Kendal , Shi Jing , Pillai Raji , Mehran Nima 
Published: July 2023

Background: Typically, shoulder range of motion (ROM) measurements are performed in a clinic setting, where physicians, physical therapists (PTs), and occupational therapists make use of a goniometer. Purpose: To determine the accuracy of a smartphone-based ROM software application (app) in assessing active shoulder ROM and compare the measurements with traditional goniometry as measured by a PT. Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2. Methods: This prospective, nonblinded study was conducted at a single institution with adult asymptomatic participants with full active ROM of both shoulders. Participants were enrolled between June 1 and 15, 2021. Each participant self-assessed their active shoulder ROM using the PeerWell smartphone app. A single PT concurrently measured each participant’s active shoulder ROM using a handheld universal goniometer. Bilateral shoulder ROM (forward flexion, abduction [AB], external rotation, internal rotation [IR], and extension) was measured 2 times for each participant. Interrater reliability between the smartphone app and PT measurements as well as intrarater reliability for each method of measurement were assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and limits of agreement were analyzed for the difference in measurement methods. Results: Data were analyzed for 60 shoulders (30 right, 30 left) from 30 participants (mean age, 31.4 ± 11.7 years; 73% female). The interrater reliability between the 2 methods was excellent for all movements (ICCs, 0.90-0.96). For all movements except shoulder AB, the mean difference in the measurements between the 2 methods was <1.3°; the mean difference in AB ROM was 2.08°. For all movements except IR, both PTs and the app showed excellent intrarater reliability (ICCs >0.90); for IR, good intrarater reliability (ICC ≥0.75) was observed. Conclusion: The PeerWell smartphone app provided measurements comparable with manual measurements taken by a PT using a goniometer. These data provide evidence that the smartphone app is a reliable and valid tool for measuring shoulder ROM and show promise for measuring and monitoring patient ROM remotely.
New bone formation accelerates during lower limb lengthening and deformity correction in children with Ollier’s disease
Authors: Wu Chunxing , Huang Yiyong , Huang Peng , Mo Yueqiang , Wang Dahui , Ning Bo 
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Background
Ollier’s disease can cause severe length discrepancy of the lower extremities and deformity in children. Osteotomy and limb lengthening with external fixation can correct the limb deformity. This study evaluated (1) whether the duration of external fixation was reduced in patients with Ollier’s disease, and (2) the incidence of complications such as pin tract infection, external fixation loosening, and joint stiffness.

Methods
Two groups were compared with respect to age, angular correction (AC), lengthening gap (LG), distraction index (DI), lengthening length (LL), lengthening length percentage (L%), lengthening index (LI), bone healing index (BHI), and external fixation index (EFI). Group 1 (Ollier’s disease) comprised nine patients undergoing 11 lower limb lengthening procedures using external fixators; group 2 (control, normal lengthened bone) comprised 28 patients undergoing 29 lengthening procedures with external fixators.

Results
In patients with Ollier’s disease, full correction of the deformity and full restoration of length were achieved in all cases. In the femur, the mean AC (15.97° vs. 6.72°) and DI (1.11 mm/day vs. 0.78 mm/day) were significantly larger, while the LI (9.71 days/cm vs. 13.49 days/cm), BHI (27.00 days/cm vs. 42.09 days/cm), and EFI (37.86 days/cm vs. 56.97 days/cm) were all significantly shorter in group 1 than in group 2 (p < 0.05). In the tibia, the mean AC and L% were larger, while the LG, LI, BHI, and EFI were all shorter in group 1 than in group 2. There was no significant difference between the two groups in the incidence of complications.

Conclusion
In children with Ollier’s disease, new bone formation accelerated and the healing speed of the lengthened segments was faster throughout the whole lengthening period with external fixation, and full correction of the deformity and full restoration of length could be achieved.
Level of Evidence III