bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Change in U.S. Hospice Quality Measure Scores During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Correlation With Exposure to State Policies for Protection of Older Adults
Authors: Baker Rogers Janna , Cagle John 
Published: August 2023

Background To limit spread of COVID-19, many U.S. states adopted policies affecting access to older adults, including those in hospice. This study aimed to assess differences in hospice quality measures from before COVID-19 to during the COVID-19 pandemic and to evaluate for any correlation with these state policies. Methods Scores (treatment preferences, believes/values, pain screening and assessment, dyspnea screening and treatment, bowel regimen, and a composite score) and Denominators (population being measured) for CMS’s Hospice Item Set were compared using a paired t-test between a pre-pandemic period (01/2019-12/2019) and a period early in the pandemic in the U.S (7/2020-6/2021). Correlations between HIS composite scores from 9 months (7/2020-3/2021) and exposure to state policies for older adult protection, and covariates, were assessed by linear regression. Results Data were collected on 3535 hospices. Seven of 8 HIS scores increased during the pandemic period. The remaining score was unchanged. All Denominators decreased. There was negative correlation between composite score (7/2020-3/2021) and exposure to state policies for protecting older adults. There were positive correlations with hospice age, for-profit status, 2019 average daily census, and 2019 composite score. Conclusion Most HIS scores increased during this COVID-19 pandemic period; there was a small, significant negative correlation between the composite quality score and exposure to state policies for older adult protection. Further research is needed to better understand the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on hospice care in the U.S. and globally, and future additions in quality reporting may facilitate real-time assessment during future public health emergencies.
A composite acoustic black hole for ultra-low-frequency and ultra-broad-band sound wave control
Authors: Liang Xiao , Liang Haofeng , Chu Jiaming , Yang Zhen , Zhou Zhuo , Gao Nansha , Zhang Siwen , Zhou Guojian , Hu Congfang 
Published: August 2023

Achieving ultra-low and ultra-broad-band sound absorption and full-band sound insulation is a major challenge. Here, we propose a composite structure of a multilayer micro-perforated plate and acoustic black holes to achieve this purpose. Combining the stable sound absorption effect of the multilayer micro-perforated plate in the full frequency band and the sound insulation effect of the acoustic black hole in the low frequency and the excellent sound absorption effect in the high frequency, the excellent sound control effect of 600–3150 Hz absorption coefficient greater than 0.8 and 100–3150 Hz sound transmission loss greater than 50 dB is achieved. The acoustic properties of different components and different acoustic black hole outlet were evaluated by finite element method, and the principles of sound absorption and insulation of the composite structure were elaborated. Finally, the results of finite element method are verified by impedance tube experiments. This work can make further progress in elucidating the acoustic properties of the ABH and open up new avenues in the control of ultra-low and ultra-wide frequency acoustic waves.
Rasburicase dose optimization for tumor lysis syndrome management in a network of community oncology practices
Authors: Gilmore Steven , Carroll Melissa , Koselke Elizabeth , Hough Shannon 
Published: August 2023

Introduction Single, fixed-dose rasburicase administration has been evaluated as an effective strategy in the management of hyperuricemia in the hospital setting, but this has not yet been described within ambulatory community oncology practices. The objective of this study is to evaluate and optimize the dosing strategy for rasburicase in the management of tumor lysis syndrome (TLS)-associated hyperuricemia in The US Oncology Network (The Network). Methods A network-wide guideline was revised to standardize rasburicase dosing from a previous recommended fixed doses of 4.5 or 7.5 mg to either 3 or 6 mg for outpatient rasburicase use in management and prevention of TLS. The primary outcome evaluated mean dose of rasburicase among all patients before and after guideline revision. A retrospective chart review evaluated secondary endpoints. Results The primary analysis included 291 patients (128 pre-revised and 163 post-revised guideline implementation). The primary outcome, mean rasburicase dose, was reduced in the post-revision compared to the pre-revision population (mean 6.2 mg pre vs. 4.5 mg post, p < 0.00001) resulting in a reduced cost per rasburicase dose of $974. Fifty patients were included for the secondary analysis. Guideline concordance was identified in 12 (48%) and 16 patients (64%), and uric acid <8 mg/dL post-rasburicase administration occurred in 14 (56%) and 16 patients (64%) before and after guideline revision, respectively. Conclusions Guideline revision and electronic health record modification resulted in a 27% reduction in the mean rasburicase dose and a 50% reduction in repeat rasburicase dosing without a negative impact on clinical efficacy.
A cross-sectional study of attitudes and behaviors of snuff use and cessation among people with and without HIV in South Africa
Authors: Loh Samantha M. , Moloantoa Tumelo , Yende Nompumelelo , Variava Ebrahim , Niaura Raymond , Golub Jonathan E. , Martinson Neil , Elf Jessica L. 
Published: August 2023

Background Despite a high (48%) prevalence of snuff use among women with HIV in South Africa, little is known of the attitudes and behaviors of use, strategies for cessation, and potential health risks. Methods In a cross-sectional study, a questionnaire was administered to adults (≥18 years) with (HIV+) and without HIV (HIV−) who self-reported current snuff use to collect information on demographics, snuff use and cessation attempts, preferred strategies for cessation, other substance use, history of respiratory illness, and mental health. Results 150 (74 HIV+, 76 HIV−) participants were enrolled; 115 (77%) were daily snuff users, 6 (4%) were current smokers, and 17 (11%) former smokers. Top reasons for current snuff use included improving health (n = 48, 32%), reducing stress (n = 26, 16%), and “being a habit” (n = 38, 25%). Participants believed snuff use to have mostly positive (n = 68, 46%) or no (n = 54, 36%) health impacts, and 57 (38%) participants believed snuff cures headaches. 103 (69%) participants reported a previous quit attempt, and 110 (73%) indicated high interest in quitting snuff. Although 105 (70%) participants indicated that advice from a healthcare provider would aid them in quitting snuff, only 30 (20%) reported ever receiving that advice. A majority of participants (n = 141, 94%) suffer from moderate to high levels of perceived stress, and overall few differences were seen by HIV status. Conclusions Education on negative impacts of snuff, advice to quit from healthcare providers, and nicotine replacement therapy should be considered in the development of a snuff cessation program.
Acupoint Thread Embedding Combined With Wenshen Bugu Decoction for the Treatment of Aromatase Inhibitor-Associated Musculoskeletal Symptom Among Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Patients: Study Protocol of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zou Xuan , Chen Zi-Yi , Yang Yu-Han , Qiao Yu , He Shu-Jin , Li Qiong , Chen Wei-Li , Zhang Xin-Yue , Li Si-Yu , Sha Shan-Yan , Hu Min-Hao , Zhang Xi-Yin , Yang Ming-Ju , Wang Rui-Ping , Wu Huan-Gan , Shi Yin , Xue Xiao-Hong , Ji Ya-Jie 
Published: August 2023

Background: Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are recommended as the preferred therapy for postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer. As a result, aromatase inhibitor-associated musculoskeletal symptom (AIMSS) have become a major problem leading to therapy discontinuation and decreased quality of life in patients receiving adjuvant AIs treatment. Multiple therapies have been attempted, but have yielded limited clinical results. This study will be performed to determine whether acupoint thread embedding (ATE) combined with Wenshen Bugu Decoction can effectively treat AIMSS, so as to improve the AIs medication compliance of postmenopausal breast cancer patients. Methods: This study will utilize a randomized, 2 parallel groups controlled trial design. A total of 128 eligible postmenopausal breast cancer women with AIMSS will be randomized to receive a 12-week treatment with Wenshen Bugu Decoction alone (control group) or in combination with ATE (treatment group) in a 1:1 ratio. The primary outcome will be the 12 week Brief Pain Inventory Worst Pain (BPI-WP) score. The secondary outcome measures will include response rate, Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form (BFI-SF), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Endocrine Symptom (FACT-ES), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast (FACT-B), bone marrow density (BMD), blood markers of bone metabolite, Morisky medication adherence scale-8 (MMAS-8), credibility and expectancy, and survival outcomes. Discussion: This trial may provide clinical evidence that ATE combined with Wenshen Bugu Decoction can be beneficial for treating AIMSS among postmenopausal breast cancer survivors. Our findings will be helpful to enhance the quality of life and reduce the occurrence of AIs withdrawal.
Comparative analysis of stenting for carotid web and atherosclerotic disease
Authors: Osehobo Ehizele M , Nogueira Raul G , Karunamuni Nilushi , Koneru Achanti Sitara , Landzberg David , Al Shaer Qasem , Grossberg Jonathan A , Al-Bayati Alhamza , Haussen Diogo C 
Published: August 2023

Introduction Carotid Web (CaW) is an increasingly recognized etiology of ischemic stroke, and has been shown to be amenable to endovascular stenting. The technical complexity of stenting for CaW may be lower than for carotid atherosclerotic disease (CAD). We aimed to assess procedural characteristics of stenting for CaW as compared to CAD. Methods We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of consecutive patients at a single comprehensive stroke center from 2014 to 2021, who had undergone elective endovascular stent placement for symptomatic CAD or CaW. Results In total, 118 patients underwent elective stent placement following ischemic stroke/transient ischemic attack; 88 patients had CAD and 30 patients had CaW. CAD patients were older (63.2 vs 51.2 years, p < 0.001), less likely to be female (28.4% vs 73.3%, p < 0.001), and more likely to have pre-existing vascular risk factors. Procedure time (73.0 vs 57.5 min, p = 0.007), radiation exposure (1482 vs 1125 milliGray, p = 0.03), filter time (24 vs 14 min, p = 0.04), and use of pre-stent (68.2% vs 0%, p < 0.001) and post-stent (34.1% vs 3.3%, p < 0.001) balloon angioplasty were higher in CAD cases. There was no significant difference between groups in the rate of periprocedural complications such as hypotension, use of vasopressors, or bradycardia. Recurrent stroke/TIA was reported in five CAD patients and 0 CaW patients by the end of the follow-up period (8.3% vs 0%, p = 0.12). In-stent restenosis was detected in seven CAD patients and 0 CaW patients (10.1% vs 0%, p = 0.09) at a median follow-up of 4 vs 16 months ( p = 0.01), respectively. Periprocedural intracranial hemorrhage was not observed in either group. Conclusion Stenting for CaW was found to be technically simpler than CAD and not to confer increased risk of baroreceptor dysregulation. Intimal hyperplasia was uncommon in CaW cases.
Predicting severe disability or death in endovascular thrombectomy with large computed tomography perfusion core infarction and limited penumbra
Authors: Karamchandani Rahul R. , Satyanarayana Sagar , Yang Hongmei , Rhoten Jeremy B. , Strong Dale , Clemente Jonathan D. , Defilipp Gary , Patel Nikhil M. , Bernard Joe , Stetler William R. , Parish Jonathan M. , Guzik Amy K. , Wolfe Stacey Q. , Asimos Andrew W. 
Published: August 2023

Background Patients presenting with large core infarctions benefit from treatment with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT), with a notable 50% reduction in rates of severe disability (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] 5) at 90 days. We studied the ability of previously reported prognostic scales to predict devastating outcomes in patients with a large ischemic core and limited salvageable brain tissue. Methods Retrospective analysis from a health system's code stroke registry, including consecutive thrombectomy patients from November 2017 to December 2022 with an anterior circulation large vessel occlusion, computed tomography perfusion core infarct ≥ 50 ml, and mismatch volume < 15 ml or mismatch ratio < 1.8. Previously reported scales were compared using logistic regression and area under the curve (AUC) analyses to predict 90-day mRS 5-6. Results Sixty patients (mean age 62.38 ± 14.25 years, median core volume 103 ml [74.75–153]) met inclusion criteria, of whom 27 (45%) had 90-day mRS 5-6. The Charlotte Large artery occlusion endovascular therapy Outcome Score (CLEOS) (odds ratio [OR] 1.35, 95% CI [1.14–1.60], p = 0.0005), Houston Intra-Arterial Therapy-2 (OR 1.35, 95% CI [1.00–1.83], p = 0.0470), and Totaled Health Risks in Vascular Events (OR 1.53, 95% CI [1.07–2.18], p = 0.0199) predicted the primary outcome in the logistic regression analysis. CLEOS performed best in the AUC analysis (AUC 0.83, 95% CI [0.72–0.94]). Conclusion CLEOS predicts devastating outcomes after EVT in patients with large core infarctions and small volumes of ischemic penumbra.
Prevalence of dysmenorrhea and associated risk factors among university students in Zimbabwe
Authors: Nyirenda Trust , Nyagumbo Elliot , Murewanhema Grant , Mukonowenzou Nyasha , Kagodora Shingirai Brenda , Mapfumo Cladnos , Bhebhe Michael , Mufunda Jacob 
Published: August 2023

Background: Dysmenorrhea is an often incapacitating condition that is characterized by painful menstruation and general body malaise. In Zimbabwe, this condition is understudied, and its associated risk factors are poorly understood. Objectives: To investigate the prevalence and associated risk factors of dysmenorrhea among female students at Midlands State University in Zimbabwe. Design: This is a cross-sectional study that employed simple random sampling technique to obtain data from 382 students using pretested and self-administered questionnaires. Methods: Data were analyzed using STATA version 16. Associations between dysmenorrhea, menstrual, sociodemographic, and lifestyle characteristics were measured using chi-square test and logistic regression model. Results: The prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 75.9%, with 28.6% of sufferers describing their pain as severe. Dysmenorrhea significantly affected the school/daily activities of respondents (χ2 = 18.22, p < 0.001). Family history (χ2 = 4.28, p = 0.04), age of menarche (χ2 = 14.8, p < 0.001), regularity of menstrual cycle (χ2 = 18.1, p < 0.001), and parity (χ2 = 8.8, p = 0.03) were associated with the prevalence of dysmenorrhea. The risk of developing dysmenorrhea almost doubled with positive family history (prevalence odds ratio = 1.68 (95% confidence interval: 1.03 to 2.75, p = 0.040)); increased with decrease in age of menarche (prevalence odds ratio = 0.19 (95% confidence interval: 0.10 to 0.45, p < 0.001)) and decreased with increase in parity (prevalence odds ratio = 0.15 (95% confidence interval: 0.03 to 0.82, p = 0.029)). However, the risk was low among those with irregular menstrual cycles (prevalence odds ratio = 0.14 (95% confidence interval: 0.10 to 0.33, p < 0.001)). Physical exercise, smoking, alcohol, and coffee consumption were not associated with the prevalence of dysmenorrhea (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Dysmenorrhea is common among female students at Midlands State University, and it significantly affects their academic activities. Family history, regular menstrual cycle, nulliparity, and lower age of menarche were risk factors. More awareness is recommended including studies on impact and management strategies.
Acute Effects of Ice Hockey on Hip Range of Motion, Strength, and Pelvic Tilt in Competitive Male Players
Authors: Suits William H. , O’Neil Margaret M. , Fogarty Kieran J. 
Published: August 2023

Background: Ice hockey players are at high risk for hip and groin injury. Several risk factors have been identified or proposed, including lower hip rotation range of motion (ROM), lower hip adductor strength, lower ratio of hip adductor to abductor strength, and lower pelvic tilt angle. It is not known how these risk factors change acutely with ice hockey participation. Hypothesis: Acute exposure to ice hockey will result in a reduction in ROM, strength, and pelvic tilt angle in competitive male players. Study Design: Controlled cohort study. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: Risk factors for hip and groin injury, including isometric hip adductor strength at 0° of flexion, the ratio of hip adductor to abductor strength, total hip rotation passive ROM in supine, and the resting pelvic tilt angle, were assessed immediately before, immediately after, and 24 hours after an ice hockey exposure in 42 competitive male ice hockey players. Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was collected to identify the intensity of the exposure. Results: There was a significant decrease in total hip rotation ROM (-7.32°, P < 0.01 (-3.91, -10.70)) and hip adductor strength (-4.41 kg, P < 0.01 (-2.81, -6.00) immediately after the exposure, and a significant decrease in total hip rotation ROM (-18.54°, P < 0.01 (-14.35, -22.73)), hip adductor strength (-6.56 kg, P < 0.01 (-4.58, -8.61)), and the ratio of hip adductor to abductor strength (-0.12, P < 0.01 (-0.21, -0.45)) 24 hours after. There was no significant change in pelvic tilt found in this study immediately after or 24 hours after. There was a moderate relationship between changes in hip adductor strength and changes in the ratio of hip adductor to abductor strength ( r = 0.433, P < 0.01). RPE was not significantly correlated to any of the changes observed. Conclusion: Risk factors for hip and groin injury in ice hockey players are modifiable after a single ice hockey exposure. Clinical Relevance: The identified fluctuation of injury risk factors for hip and groin injury in ice hockey players has implications for injury risk profiling, rehabilitation, and return-to-competition decision-making.
Non-invasive prenatal testing for fetal Ss, Kidd, and CTL2 blood group prediction by multiplex digital droplet PCR
Authors: Wang Yufeng , Chu Xiaoyue , Chen Xihui , Yin Anan , Yao Yan , Wang Li , Xu Hua , Liu Fangfang , Chen Kun , Wu Yuanming 
Published: August 2023

Background: Some blood groups, such as S and s blood groups in the MNS blood group system, and Kidd and CTL2 blood group systems, can cause severe fetal and newborn alloimmune disorders. Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) to predict fetal blood groups and knowledge of local blood group gene frequency are both important for pregnancy management decisions. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) has high specificity and sensitivity in detecting fetal single nucleotide variation. Objectives: The objective is to predict fetal Ss, Kidd, and CTL2 blood groups using multiplex ddPCR. The gene frequencies of three blood groups were detected by ddPCR in northwest China. Design: This is a prospective study. Methods: Cell-free fetal DNA isolated from 26 healthy single pregnant women at different gestational stages was tested with QX200 Droplet Digital PCR. Results were compared with fetal genotypes. DNA samples purified from 20 blood pools containing a total of 1000 donors in northwest China were subjected to ddPCR to detect the gene frequency of three blood groups. Results: Ss, Kidd, and CTL2 blood groups of 26 pregnant fetuses were accurately detected by multiplex ddPCR. The multiplex ddPCR results were consistent with the Sanger sequencing results of 26 fetal blood samples after birth. The gene frequencies of the three blood groups detected by ddPCR were 9.30% for S, 90.70% for s, 48.43% for Jka, 51.57% for Jkb, 66.57% for HNA-3A, and 33.43% for HNA-3B. Conclusions: It is reliable to predict fetal Ss, Kidd, and CTL2 blood groups by multiplex ddPCR. Meanwhile, we designed a simple and efficient method for inferring the gene frequency of three blood groups based on ddPCR.
Development and Implementation of an Acute Kidney Injury Remote Patient Monitoring Program: Research Letter
Authors: Charkviani Mariam , Barreto Erin F. , Pearson Kristina K. , Amberg Brigid M. , Amundson Rachel H. , Bell Sarah J. , Cleveland Eric J. , Daniels Craig E. , Kohler Christopher M. , Leuenberger Angela M. , Philpot Lindsey M. , Ramirez David A. , Reinschmidt Karen J. , Zoghby Ziad , Kattah Andrea G. 
Published: August 2023

Acute kidney injury (AKI) survivors have a dynamic posthospital course which warrants close monitoring. Remote patient monitoring (RPM) could be used to improve quality and efficiency of AKI survivor care. Objective: The objective of this report was to describe the development and preliminary feasibility of an AKI RPM program launched in October 2021. Setting: Academic medical center. Patients: Patients enrolled in the AKI RPM program were those who experienced AKI during a hospitalization and underwent nephrology consultation. Measurements/Methods: At enrollment, patients were provided with home monitoring technology and underwent weekly laboratory assessments. Nurses evaluated the data daily and adhered to prespecified protocols for management and escalation of care if needed. Results: Twenty patients were enrolled in AKI RPM in the first 5 months. Median duration of program participation was 36 (31, 40) days. Eight patients (40%) experienced an unplanned readmission, or an emergency department visit, half (N = 4) of which were attributed to AKI and related circumstances. Of the 9 postgraduation survey respondents, all were satisfied with the RPM program and 89% would recommend RPM to other patients with similar health conditions. Limitations: Acute kidney injury RPM was made possible by the existing infrastructure in our integrated health system and the robust resources available in the Mayo Clinic Center for Digital Health. Such infrastructure may not be universally available which could limit scale and generalizability of such a program. Conclusions: Remote patient monitoring can offer a unique opportunity to bridge the care transition from hospital to home and increase access to quality care for the AKI survivors.