bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Controlling mission hazards through integrated abort and spare support optimization
Authors: Yang Li , Wei Fanping , Ma Xiaobing , Qiu Qingan 
Published: January 2025

AbstractThis study explores the risk management challenges associated with safety‐critical systems required to execute specific missions. The working component experiences degradation governed by a continuous‐time discrete‐state Markov chain, whose failure leads to an immediate system breakdown and safety losses. To enhance system survivability, a limited number of identical spares are available for online replacement throughout the mission. At the same time, the mission abort action arises promptly upon encountering excessive safety hazards. To strike an optimal balance between mission completion and system survivability, we delve into the adaptive scheduling of component replacements and mission termination decisions. The joint decision problem of interest constitutes a finite‐time Markov decision process with resource limitation, under which we analyze a series of structural properties related to spare availability and component conditions. In particular, we establish structured control‐limit policies for both spare replacement and mission termination decisions. For comparison purposes, we evaluate the performance of various heuristic policies analytically. Numerical experiments conducted on the driver system of radar equipment validate the superior model performance in enhancing operational performance while simultaneously mitigating hazard risks.
Where Men Go/Stay to Build Again: City and Post‐Deportation Coping Among Nigerian Deportees From China
Authors: Adebayo Kudus Oluwatoyin 
Published: January 2025

ABSTRACTWhile deportation of Africans is a commonplace practice in China, deportation and its aftermath, as experienced by deportees, remain at the margin of research. This article examined the spatial condition of deportation afterlife using data from a study on the post‐deportation experiences of Nigerian men deported from China. Specifically, it focused on the city as a space and place of post‐deportation coping, including the practices of translocality associated with socioeconomic recovery and reintegration. In doing this, it engaged with how migration experience, deportation loss, masculinity, recalibrated socialities and self‐stigmatisation contribute towards shaping the sense of place and strategies of place‐(re)making of Nigerian deportees. The article enriched the discourse of deportation and the city at the intersection of deportation afterlife, masculinity and deportees' reintegration. It also contributed to the broader deportation literature, especially in the relation to Africans deported from East Asia.
Early investigation of sensorineural hearing loss enables diagnosis of rare metabolic diseases, such as mucopolysaccharidosis type III
Authors: Shrivastava Roohi , Sherwin Louise , Davison James , Walter Simone 
Published: January 2025

A toddler presented to audiovestibular medicine with mild bilateral, sensorineural hearing loss identified via the Newborn Hearing Screening Programme. This report focuses on the early clinical assessment and aetiological investigation which prompted testing for metabolic disease and highlights the parents’ perspective. Early investigation led to a relatively early diagnosis of mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) type IIIA: Sanfilippo disease which enabled the family to access a novel treatment option which otherwise would not have been possible.Infants with early signs and symptoms of MPS may present to a range of healthcare professionals. The detection of hearing loss via the newborn hearing screen presents an opportunity for healthcare professionals to initiate early investigation for a possible underlying metabolic disease before end-organ damage progresses. This is vital in allowing affected families to engage with clinical trials and genetic counselling.
Surgical excision of symptomatic lateral band snapping syndrome in small finger proximal interphalangeal joint
Authors: Pelz Nicholas , Perugini Anthony , Peabody John Tucker , Berling Stephen 
Published: January 2025

Lateral band snapping syndrome can be a debilitating condition involving the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of the fingers. Although rare, it is thought to occur due to disruption of the finger extensor mechanism allowing inappropriate subluxation of the lateral bands over the PIP joint, leading to mechanical and painful symptoms.Here, we describe a woman in her early 40s with a painful, snapping PIP joint secondary to a work-related injury. On examination, there was radial lateral band subluxation with joint motion.The dorsal aspect of the small finger was explored, and the radial lateral band was found to be subluxated during the active range of motion. The injured retinacular ligament along with the pathological lateral band was excised. Postoperatively, the patient was allowed to have unrestricted range of motion. At the latest follow-up, there was no active or passive triggering/snapping symptoms, as well as full range of motion of the affected digit.
Serological markers of exocrine pancreatic function are differentially informative for distinguishing individuals progressing to type 1 diabetes
Authors: Williams MacKenzie D , Grace Catherine Ramsey , Posgai Amanda L , McGrail Kieran M , Brusko Maigan A , Haller Michael J , Jacobsen Laura , Schatz Desmond , Brusko Todd M , Atkinson Mark , Bacher Rhonda , Wasserfall Clive H 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionAltered serum levels of growth hormones, adipokines, and exocrine pancreas enzymes have been individually linked with type 1 diabetes (T1D). We collectively evaluated seven such biomarkers, combined with islet autoantibodies (AAb) and genetic risk score (GRS2), for their utility in predicting AAb/T1D status.Research design and methodsCross-sectional serum samples (n=154 T1D, n=56 1AAb+, n=77 ≥2AAb+, n=256 AAb−) were assessed for IGF1, IGF2, adiponectin, leptin, amylase, lipase, and trypsinogen (n=543, age range 2.7–30.0 years) using random forest modeling.ResultsGRS2, age, lipase, trypsinogen, and AAb against ZnT8, GAD65, and insulin were the most informative markers. Notably, these variables were differentially informative according to AAb/T1D status. Higher GRS2 (p<0.001) and lower lipase levels (p=0.002) favored ≥2AAb+ versus AAb− classification. AAb against ZnT8 (p<0.01), GAD65 (p=0.021), or insulin (p=0.01) each independently favored ≥2AAb+ versus 1AAb+ classification. Reduced trypsinogen (p<0.001) and increased lipase levels (p<0.001) favored recent-onset T1D versus ≥2AAb+ classification.ConclusionsAmong the serological markers tested, lipase and trypsinogen levels were the most informative for differentiating among clinical groups, with the utility of each enzyme varying according to GRS2 and AAb/T1D status. These data support exocrine pancreas enzymes as candidates for longitudinal follow-up.
Prevalence of gallstone disease in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Abdu Seid Mohammed , Assefa Ebrahim Msaye 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveGallstone disease is a prevalent global health issue, but its impact in Africa remains unclear. This study aims to summarise and synthesise available data on the prevalence of gallstone disease across populations in Africa.DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis, reported in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines.Data sourcesPubMed, Google Scholar, Hinari, and African Journal Online were searched, from 2000 up to 31 December 2023.Eligibility criteriaThe review included all observational studies that reported the prevalence of gallstone disease and were published in English.Data extraction and synthesisTwo independent reviewers extracted data and assessed the risk of bias using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) tool. Data were pooled using a random-effects and inverse variance method, with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) calculated. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Cochran Q statistic and quantified with the I² statistic.ResultsA total of 260 studies were identified from electronic databases, with 10 meeting the inclusion criteria. The combined prevalence of gallstone disease was 17% (95% CI 9% to 24%), but with high statistical heterogeneity (I²=99.9%). Only 8 of the 10 included studies provided prevalence data by sex, showing notably higher rates in females (15.3%) compared with males (3.7%).ConclusionThe study reveals a pooled gallstone disease prevalence of 17% in Africa, with higher rates in females. However, the significant heterogeneity, the lack of data from most countries and an imbalance in data from other countries, the diverse study populations, and the limited number of studies necessitate cautious interpretation. Future policies and interventions should prioritise reducing gallstone disease, particularly in females, while addressing the variability in data sources.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42024503530.
Prognostic factors for transplant-free survival in patients with secondary sclerosing cholangitis associated with critical illness
Authors: Konstantis Georgios , Moghadam Dorsa Ghaffar Loy , Frey Alexandra , Nuruzade Nargiz , Schramm Christoph , Gerges Christian , Lange Christian M , Schmidt Hartmut , Willuweit Katharina , Kahraman Alisan , Passenberg Moritz , Rashidi-Alavijeh Jassin 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveSecondary sclerosing cholangitis (SSC) represents a disease with a poor prognosis increasingly diagnosed in clinical settings. Notably, SSC in critically ill patients (SSC-CIP) is the most frequent cause. Variables associated with worse prognosis remain unclear. The primary aim of this study was to identify factors associated with transplant-free survival in SSC-CIP patients using readily available data.MethodsA cohort of 47 patients diagnosed with SSC-CIP was retrospectively analysed for clinical, biochemical and endoscopic variables. Kaplan-Meier survival curves, log-rank tests and univariate Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess associations with transplant-free survival. A multivariable Cox regression model was constructed using Lasso regularisation and validated with Bootstrap resampling. Model performance was assessed using the C-statistic for discrimination.ResultsKaplan-Meier analysis identified bile duct obstruction requiring stent placement, and cholangitis episodes, as significant prognostic factors. In univariable analysis, age over 47 years (HR 2.61 (95% CI 1.02, 7.06), p=0.04), at least one cholangitis episode (HR 2.46 (95% CI 1.005, 6.06), p=0.04), stent placement (HR 2.89 (95% CI 1.13, 7.38), p=0.03), lower albumin levels (HR 0.52 (95% CI 0.28, 0.97), p=0.04) and higher international normalised ratio (INR) (HR 3.22 (95% CI 1.09, 9.53), p=0.03) were significant. Multivariable analysis showed that age at diagnosis, albumin and INR were significant independent predictors. The C-index was 0.78 (95% CI 0.65, 0.91), surpassing the model of end-stage liver disease score’s prognostic accuracy (Concordance Index at 3 years: 66.2% vs 74.9%).ConclusionThese findings provide valuable insights for establishing standard exception criteria for this rare liver disease, which could lead to improved organ allocation. Further prospective multicentre studies are necessary to validate our findings.
Clinical manifestations and outcomes of patients with intravascular large B-cell lymphoma with neurological involvement: highlighting longitudinally extensive myelopathy as a distinct feature
Authors: Uawithya Ekdanai , Lertsakworakul Palakorn , Owatthanapanich Weerapat , Jitprapaikulsan Jiraporn 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveThis study aimed to elucidate the clinical manifestations, laboratory findings and outcomes of patients with intravascular large B cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) with neurological involvement and to differentiate IVLBCL with and without neurological involvement.MethodsA cohort study was conducted at Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Thailand, between January 2005 and September 2024. Clinical data, laboratory values and central nervous system imaging results were analysed. Categorical variables were compared using the χ² or Fisher’s exact test, while continuous variables were analysed with the Mann-Whitney U test, as appropriate.ResultsOf the 30 patients with IVLBCL, 10 had neurological involvement and 20 without neurological symptoms, including myelopathy (5 patients, 50%); cognitive impairment (3 patients, 30%); seizures (2 patients, 20%); optic neuropathy, hemiparesis, homonymous hemianopia, vertigo and global aphasia (each affecting 1 patient, 10%). 60% of IVLBCL with neurological involvement had systemic symptoms, including prolonged fever, anaemia, anorexia and weight loss. MRI showed hyperintense lesions in the supratentorial, infratentorial and spinal cord with the prominent findings being longitudinally extensive cord lesions (four patients, 40.0%). The median survival time of the IVLBCL with neurological involvement was 4.1 months (95% CI: 0.0 to 17.1 months), with a 1-year survival rate of 37.5% and a 2-year survival rate of 25.0%.InterpretationThis study highlights the distinct clinical, laboratory features and imaging of IVLBCL with neurological involvement and compares it to IVLBCL without neurological involvement. Early recognition of these findings is crucial for accurate diagnosis and improved patient outcomes despite the aggressive nature of IVLBCL.
Dietary pattern and risk of thyroid cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Nagashima Yasmin Guerreiro , Soares Aline Alves , Alves Camila Xavier , Medeiros Kleyton Santos , Lopes Marcia Marilia Gomes Dantas , Brandao-Neto Jose 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionUntil now, the thyroid cancer case number has increased, and it is not entirely possible to attribute this continuous growth to more meticulous thyroid nodule selection and more accurate diagnostic techniques. While there is currently no conclusive evidence linking dietary factors to thyroid cancer, certain dietary patterns seem to have an impact on the development of the disease. There are interesting connections among diet, environment, metabolism and thyroid carcinogenesis; a deeper comprehension of the underlying mechanisms should help the identification of modifiable risk factors for thyroid cancer. This protocol aims to guide a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature to search for an association between dietary pattern and risk of thyroid cancer.Methods and analysisThe databases to search for observational studies will be PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and LILACS, from inception to 10 December 2024. No language limitation or publication period will be imposed. The outcome will be the patients with thyroid cancer. Three impartial reviewers will choose the studies and extract data from the original publications. The Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Scale will assess the risk of bias, and the certainty of the evidence will be achieved by using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation. The R (V.4.3.1) will be performed for data synthesis, and to measure heterogeneity, we will compute the I2statistics. Additionally, a quantitative synthesis will be performed if the included studies are sufficiently homogenous.Ethics and disseminationIt is not necessary to acquire ethical approval, as this study will be a review of the published data. A peer-reviewed publication will publish the systematic review’s findings.PROSPERO registration numberInternational Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) CRD 42023463802.
Effectiveness of home-based walking exercise for patients with peripheral artery disease and intermittent claudication: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Zheng , Chuo Jing , Zhao Xiaoqin 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the effect of home-based exercise interventions on walking performance in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) and intermittent claudication (IC).DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis.Data sourcesWe searched the Medline, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus and Cochrane Library databases to identify randomised controlled trials of patients with PAD and IC published in English up to August 2024.Eligibility criteriaRandomised controlled trials of patients who participated in home-based exercise interventions and were assessed for walking performance were eligible for inclusion. Studies without available data were excluded.Data extraction and synthesisWe analysed the pooled effect size on walking performance based on the standardised mean differences between groups. A leave-one-out sensitivity analysis was performed to ensure the robustness of the findings.ResultsA total of eight studies were included in the meta-analysis. The duration of interventions in the included studies ranged from 6 to 52 weeks. In the pooled analysis, compared with control groups, the home-based exercise intervention groups showed improved pain-free walking distance (standardised mean difference 0.67, 95% CI 0.20 to 1.15), and maximal walking distance (0.47, 0.05 to 0.89). The overall heterogeneity score of pain-free walking distance was I2=83% (p<0.001), and for maximal walking distance, I2=78% (p<0.001).ConclusionsHome-based exercise interventions for patients with PAD and IC were beneficial in improving pain-free walking distance and maximal walking distance. Future studies should consider multiple factors that may affect the effectiveness of home training and intervention compliance.Trial registration numberPROSPERO, CRD42024499020.
Oxygenation targets for endovascular therapy in acute ischemic stroke patients (Oxy-TARGET): protocol for a single-centre, open-label randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hu Zhengfang , Zhang Kangda , Wu Youxuan , Wang Xinyan , Zhang Zihui , Hou Xuan , Jian Minyu , Wang Yunzhen , Liu Haiyang , Wang Anxin , Han Ruquan , Liang Fa 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionPreclinical studies have shown that oxygen therapy can improve ischaemic brain tissue oxygen tension, reduce reperfusion injury after revascularisation, promote neuroregeneration and inhibit inflammatory responses potentially exerting a beneficial effect after endovascular treatment (EVT) in patients with acute ischaemic stroke (AIS). However, the optimal fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) during EVT under general anaesthesia is currently unknown. Therefore, we are conducting a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the impact of high-concentration oxygen vs low-concentration normobaric oxygen on early neurological function after EVT.Methods and analysisThe Oxy-TARGET trial is an ongoing prospective, open-label, parallel-design RCT being conducted at Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University. It aims to enrol 200 anterior circulation AIS patients undergoing EVT under general anaesthesia between February 2024 and December 2026. Eligible participants are randomly assigned at a 1:1 ratio to receive FiO2=80% or FiO2=30% through endotracheal intubation, with the gas flow rate set at 4 L/min. The inspiratory oxygen concentration at the tracheal intubation site (delivered FiO2) was recorded concurrently. The primary outcome is the incidence of early neurological improvement (a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score<10 points at 24±2 hours after EVT). Additional safety and efficacy parameters included the 24-hour ΔNIHSS (baseline NIHSS - NIHSS at 24-hour) score, final infarct volume at 72 hours postrandomisation, 90-day Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score, early neurological deterioration, postoperative pulmonary complications, blood gas parameters, symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage and 90-day mortality.Ethics and disseminationFollowing a rigorous review process, Oxy-TARGET has received official approval from the Ethics Committee of Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University (KY2023-257-02). The standardised research protocol adopted in this trial is designed to enhance anaesthesiologists’ understanding of respiratory management for AIS patients during EVT. The findings of this study are intended to be disseminated through publications in international peer-reviewed journals, presentations at national and international academic conferences and broad distribution via online platforms.Trial registration numberNCT06224426.
Impact of tiered restrictions in December 2020 on COVID-19 hospitalisations in England: a synthetic control study
Authors: Zhang Xingna , Hungerford Daniel , Green Mark , García-Fiñana Marta , Buchan Iain , Barr Benjamin 
Published: January 2025

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effectiveness of localised Tier 3 restrictions, implemented in England in December 2020, on reducing COVID-19 hospitalisations compared with less stringent Tier 2 measures and the variations by neighbourhood deprivation and the prevalence of Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant, the primary variant of concern then, to measure hospital services’ burden and inequalities across different communities.DesignObservational study using a synthetic control method, comparing weekly hospitalisation rates in Tier 3 areas to a synthetic control from Tier 2 areas.SettingEngland between 4 October 2020 and 21 February 2021.Participants23 million people under Tier 3 restrictions, compared with a synthetic control group derived from 29 million people under Tier 2 restrictions.InterventionsTier 3 restrictions in designated areas were implemented from 7 December 2020, imposing stricter limits on gatherings and hospitality than Tier 2, followed by a national lockdown on 6 January 2021.Primary and secondary outcome measuresWeekly COVID-19-related hospitalisations for neighbourhoods in England over 11 weeks following the interventions.ResultsImplementing Tier 3 restrictions were associated with a 17% average reduction in hospitalisations compared with Tier 2 areas (95% CI 13% to 21%; 8158 (6286 to 9981) in total). The effects were similar across different levels of neighbourhood deprivation and prevalence of the Alpha variant.ConclusionsRegionally targeted Tier 3 restrictions in England had a moderate but significant effect on reducing hospitalisations. The impact did not exacerbate socioeconomic inequalities during the pandemic. Our findings suggest that regionally targeted restrictions can be effective in managing infectious diseases.
Tear matrix metalloproteinases-9 and ocular surface parameters in diabetics: a cross-sectional study in Shenyang, China
Authors: Qu Zhengpeng , Pazo Emmanuel Eric , Yang Ling , Chen Jiayan , Qin Guanghao , He Wei 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundOverexpression of tear matrix metalloproteinases-9 (MMP-9) on the ocular surface tissues has been reported to result in ocular surface damage. MMP-9 levels in tears have been listed as one of many tools for confirming dry eye disease (DED).ObjectiveThis investigation aimed to compare MMP-9 levels and ocular surface parameters in diabetic patients with and without DED.DesignA cross-sectional study.SettingHe Eye Specialist Hospital, Shenyang, China.ParticipantsThis study recruited 144 right eyes of 144 diabetic patients between November and December of 2023, and 110 patients with similar propensity scores were included in the analyses.Main outcome measuresNon-invasive breakup time (NITBUT), tear film lipid layer (TFLL), conjunctival hyperaemia (redness score (RS)), corneoconjunctival staining (CS), corneal sensitivity and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire were evaluated. MMP-9 was measured using an immunochromatography assay.ResultsIn total, 55 patients (55 eyes) were grouped as diabetic dry eye (DDE) and 55 patients (55 eyes) as diabetic non-dry eye (DNDE). The mean MMP-9 concentrations were higher in patients with DDE than DNDE (70.63±52.06 ng/mL vs 33.98±33.93 ng/mL; p<0.001). The optimal cut-off value of MMP-9 to predict DED in diabetic patients was>52.5 ng/mL, with 58.2% sensitivity and 78.2% specificity.ConclusionsMMP-9 concentration was higher in patients with DDE than DNDE. The MMP-9 test is a potential diagnostic tool for DDE. It may help follow-up diabetic patients with DED and guide clinicians in deciding on anti-inflammatory treatments for these patients.