bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of short‐term ketogenic diet on sex hormones and glucose‐lipid metabolism in overweight or obese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Li Meng , Zhang Lisong , Li Xiaoyu , Zhao Yanzhong
Published: December 2024

Aim

This study evaluates the clinical effects of a ketogenic diet (KD) versus a traditional comprehensive intervention, including lifestyle changes and oral contraceptives, in overweight or obese polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 70 overweight/obese PCOS patients (body mass index [BMI] ≥24 kg/m2) treated between December 2022 and December 2023 was conducted. The patients were categorized into two groups based on their past treatment modality: Group 1 received a KD treatment (N = 35), and Group 2 underwent comprehensive intervention (N = 35), with both treatments lasting 3 months. Changes in body weight, BMI, sex hormone levels, glucose‐lipid metabolism indicators, and liver and kidney function were compared.

Results

Both groups experienced significant reductions in body weight and BMI after treatment (p < 0.05), with the KD group showing a greater reduction (p < 0.05). luteinizing hormone (LH), LH/follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), and total testosterone (TT) levels decreased significantly in both groups (p < 0.05). The KD treatment led to significant reductions in fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting insulin (FINS), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), triglyceride (TG), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (p < 0.05), while the comprehensive intervention resulted in decreased FBG and ALT, and increased high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (HDL‐c) (p < 0.05). Additionally, the KD group had a greater reduction in FBG, and showed decreases in TG and AST, which remained unchanged in the comprehensive intervention group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The short‐term KD treatment provides significant weight loss and effectively improves hormone regulation and glucose‐lipid metabolism in overweight or obese PCOS patients, offering a valuable therapeutic option for managing the condition.
Patient awareness of long‐term cardiovascular and metabolic disease risks after hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in Japan
Authors: Ushida Takafumi , Tano Sho , Matsuo Seiko , Fuma Kazuya , Imai Kenji , Kajiyama Hiroaki , Kotani Tomomi
Published: December 2024

Aim

Given the increasing recognition of the importance of postpartum follow‐up care for women with a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) to mitigate their future risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, here we aimed to evaluate the current status of postpartum follow‐up care in Japan and explore the challenges to its implementation.

Methods

A web‐based survey was conducted using a smartphone application among postpartum women between March and May 2024 to assess their knowledge of HDP‐related future risk and postpartum follow‐up care.

Results

A total of 880 valid responses were obtained, 73 (8.3%) of which were from women with a history of HDP. Of them, 56.2% were aware of the heightened risk of cardiovascular disease and even fewer knew about the risks of metabolic syndrome (37.0%) and the preventive use of low‐dose aspirin (12.3%); in fact, 31.5% reported receiving no information about their risk or preventive measures from healthcare providers. Furthermore, 43.8% did not consult specialists or attend regular checkups after their 1‐month checkup. Among women with a history of HDP, those who received information and guidance were more likely to implement behavioral changes than those who did not.

Conclusions

Patient awareness level of HDP‐related risk was low and the information provided by their healthcare professionals was insufficient, indicating that postpartum follow‐up care in Japan is not satisfactory. This study highlights the need for improved educational strategies and systematic follow‐up protocols to ensure that women are adequately informed and supported in managing their long‐term health risks.
Alpha‐1 Antitrypsin Inclusions Sequester GRP78 in a Bile Acid–Inducible Manner
Authors: Spivak Igor , Guldiken Nurdan , Usachov Valentyn , Schaap Frank , Damink Steven W.M. Olde , Bouchecareilh Marion , Lehmann Alexandra , Fu Lei , Mo Fa‐Rong , Ensari Gökce Kobazi , Hufnagel Franziska , Fromme Malin , Preisinger Christian , Strnad Pavel
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

The homozygous PiZ mutation (PIZZ genotype) constitutes the predominant cause of severe alpha‐1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency and leads to liver disease via hepatocellular AAT aggregation. We systematically analysed the composition of AAT aggregates and studied the impact of bile acids.

Methods

AAT inclusions were isolated from livers of PiZ overexpressing mice and PIZZ humans via fluorescence‐activated and immunomagnetic sorting (FACS/MACS), while insoluble proteins were obtained via Triton‐X extraction. Inclusion composition was evaluated through mass‐spectrometry (MS), immunoblotting and immunostaining. Hepatocytes with versus without AAT aggregates were obtained via microdissection. Serum bile acids were assessed in 57 PIZZ subjects and 19 controls. Mice were administered 2% cholic acid (CA)–supplemented chow for 7 days.

Results

MS identified the key endoplasmic reticulum chaperone 78 kDa glucose‐regulated protein (GRP78) in FACS/MACS pulldowns. GRP78 was also enriched in insoluble fractions from PiZ mice versus wild types and detected in insoluble fractions/MACS isolates from PIZZ liver explants. In cultured cells/primary hepatocytes, PiZ overexpression was associated with increased GRP78 mRNA/protein levels. In human livers, hepatocytes with AAT aggregates had higher GRP78 levels than hepatocytes without. PIZZ subjects displayed higher serum bile acid levels than controls and the highest levels were seen in individuals with liver injury/fibrosis. In PiZ mice, CA‐mediated bile acid challenge resulted in increased liver injury and translocation of GRP78 into the aggregates.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that GRP78 is sequestered within AAT inclusions. Bile acid accumulation, as seen in PIZZ subjects with liver disease, may promote GRP78 segregation and thereby augment liver damage.

Trial Registration: NCT02929940
Blood–brain barrier dysfunction in multiple system atrophy: A human postmortem study
Authors: Gabdulkhaev Ramil , Shimizu Hiroshi , Kanazawa Masato , Kuroha Yasuko , Hasegawa Arika , Idezuka Jiro , Tainaka Kazuki , Onodera Osamu , Kakita Akiyoshi
Published: December 2024

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare neurodegenerative disease characterized by an accumulation of phosphorylated α‐synuclein (p‐αsyn) in oligodendrocytes in the form of glial cytoplasmic inclusions (GCIs). In MSA, not only mature oligodendrocytes but also oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) are affected. The latter play an important role in remyelination by differentiating into mature oligodendrocytes, as well as maintaining the blood–brain barrier (BBB) by promoting the expression of tight junction proteins. We have hypothesized that in MSA, the BBB is impaired as a result of aberrant interactions between affected OPCs and the cerebral vasculature. To verify this hypothesis, we conducted a neuropathological examination of postmortem brains from MSA patients and control subjects, focusing on the primary motor area, one of the main regions affected in MSA. Using double immunofluorescence, we quantified the expression of tight junction protein claudin‐5 in capillary endothelial cells and found that it was significantly lower in MSA than in controls in both the gray matter and white matter. Furthermore, a significantly higher amount of fibrinogen was extravasated into the brain parenchyma in MSA patients than in controls. In addition, leakage of IgG was detected almost specifically in MSA brain parenchyma, as visualized in three dimensions by combining techniques of chemical tissue clearing and light sheet microscopy. Finally, we confirmed accumulation of p‐αsyn‐positive GCIs along the cerebral vasculature within OPCs. These results suggest that BBB dysfunction and associated fibrinogen extravasation are constant findings in MSA, presumably triggered by the deposition of p‐αsyn in perivascular OPCs.
Análisis del riesgo y la prima en el seguro automotor argentino durante la pandemia
Authors: Hernández Joaquín Alejandro
Published: December 2024

La declaración de pandemia de la enfermedad Covid-19 por la O.M.S obligó a numerosos países a adoptar medidas preventivas de confinamiento en miras de proteger la salud y la vida; produciéndose a su vez un fuerte impacto en la economía global.
Al igual que la enfermedad, a nivel global proliferaron fake news, divulgadas con el fin de promover el pánico, confusión o conductas incorrectas entre los ciudadanos; motivando a la O.M.S a alertar sobre sus efectos perjudiciales, nombrando a este fenómeno como infodemia.
Argentina, al igual que numerosos países, adoptó medidas en favor del confinamiento social que implicaron la reducción de la interacción social y una significativa caída de la actividad económica.
El mercado asegurador argentino, no fue ajeno a los impactos sociales y económicos generados por la pandemia, como así tampoco a los nocivos efectos causados por infodemia.
A través de una primera fake news, se indicó que los aseguradores del ramo automotor no cubrirían los siniestros de asegurados que violen el confinamiento.
Posteriormente, a través de otra, en razón de haberse producido una supuesta disminución del riesgo durante el confinamiento, se instó a los tomadores a solicitar masivamente descuentos en el precio del seguro, y se acusó a los aseguradores de haberse enriquecido sin causa.
En el presente artículo analizaremos las características del riesgo y la prima en el seguro automotor argentino, demostrando que no existió disminución del riesgo durante el confinamiento y los peligros que conllevan la inobservancia de las bases técnicas del contrato de seguro.
Editorial: Semilleros de investigación odontológica en las facultades y programas miembros de la Asociación Colombiana de Facultades de Odontología
Authors: Escobar Arregocés Francina María , Jaramillo Echeverry Adriana , Sánchez Garzón Juliana , Mora Díaz Ingrid Isabel , Delgado-Troncoso Jorge Enrique , Delgado Troncoso Sandra Cecilia
Published: December 2024

El nuevo dossier temático que publica Universitas Odontologica en su volumen 42 de 2023 es una recopilación de trabajos que se han realizado al interior de los semilleros de investigación en odontología. Colombia desde hace alrededor de dos décadas creó la figura del semillero de investigación para estudiantes de pregrado y posgrado con el fin de promover la investigación formativa, no como un proceso aislado, sino como parte integral de los grupos y líneas de investigación institucionales. Esta práctica se ha extendido a lo largo de América Latina. La disciplina odontológica lleva muchos años promoviendo la investigación entre sus facultades y programas asociados para el cual el modelo de semilleros de investigación ha permitido dar un paso adelante en el desarrollo científico del país desde la academia. En este editorial se describe cómo están estructurados y cómo trabajan los semilleros odontológicos en los ámbitos nacional e institucional.
Additive Manufacturing of Wheat Straw Fibers for Sustainable Thermal Insulation Application
Authors: Guo Zipeng , Liang Licheng , Armstrong Jason , Ren Shenqiang , Zhou Chi
Published: December 2024

Thermal insulation materials reduce heat transfer and are typically made from materials like fiberglass, foam, or mineral wool, which are engineered to trap air and hinder heat conduction and convection. The traditional manufacturing processes of thermal insulation materials are often energy-intensive and result in significant greenhouse gas emissions. In the current global drive for sustainability, these energy-intensive manufacturing processes raise environmental concerns and need to be addressed. In this work, with the objective of addressing both material sustainability and manufacturing sustainability, we present an additive manufacturing strategy to fabricate biomass materials for thermal insulation applications. We propose utilizing wheat straw as a biomass feedstock for manufacturing sustainable thermal insulation. This approach captures carbon during growth and stores it within the insulation structure. In the presented work, we first demonstrate the formulation of a 3D-printable ink using chopped straw fibers. We conduct comprehensive rheological characterizations to reveal the shear-thinning properties and the printability of the straw fiber ink. Utilizing the direct ink writing (DIW) process, the straw fiber material is deposited into 3D structures. Through material characterization tests, which include microstructure, mechanical, and thermal analyses, we demonstrate the low thermal conductivity and robust mechanical properties. This paper marks the first work of 3D printing of wheat straw fibers for thermal insulation structures. The discoveries in this pilot work demonstrate the potential to leverage additive manufacturing technologies and sustainable biomass materials to create both functional and value-added wheat straw parts tailored for thermal insulation applications.
An Experimental Comparison of Methanol Combustion Strategies: Spark Ignition Versus Compression Ignition
Authors: Gandolfo John , Lawler Benjamin , Gainey Brian
Published: December 2024

Methanol has garnered significant attention over the past few years due to its potential as a hydrogen carrier in a future green economy. As a result, it is a leading candidate to displace fossil fuels in the transportation sector. Although recent research efforts have been directed toward adopting the fuel in compression ignition engines, methanol is an ideal fuel for light-duty high compression ratio spark ignition engines due to its fast laminar flame speed, high auto-ignition resistance, and high cooling potential. In this work, methanol was combusted in a single-cylinder spark ignition engine with a compression ratio of 14.8 and compared to E10 (regular grade gasoline – 10% ethanol, 90% ethanol by volume), E75 (75% ethanol, 25% gasoline by volume), and hydrous ethanol (92% ethanol, 8% water by mass) at 6 bar net indicated mean effective pressure (IMEPn). Methanol achieved a net fuel conversion efficiency of 42.5% compared to 41.6% with hydrous ethanol, 39.5% with E75, and 36.2% with E10. Next, the performance of the high compression ratio spark ignition engine was then compared to a methanol-fueled light-duty single-cylinder compression ignition engine. At loads of 6 bar and 10 bar IMEPn, the net fuel conversion efficiency of stoichiometric spark ignition was higher than lean mixing-controlled compression ignition by 2.6 and 3.3 percentage points, respectively. The net fuel conversion efficiency of mixing-controlled compression ignition was higher than spark ignition by 0.2 percentage points at a load of 16 bar IMEPn. The competitiveness of spark ignition with mixing-controlled compression ignition was due to the high thermodynamic penalty associated with injecting a high heat of vaporization fuel like methanol close to top dead center where heat from the working fluid is absorbed to evaporate the fuel rather than being converted to thermodynamic work. To remedy this, an advanced compression ignition strategy using premixed and partially premixed injections was demonstrated to provide the highest net fuel conversion efficiency across the tested combustion strategies by avoiding this thermodynamic penalty and taking full advantage of the lean and unthrottled nature of compression ignition.
A synthetic protein-level neural network in mammalian cells
Authors: Chen Zibo , Linton James M. , Xia Shiyu , Fan Xinwen , Yu Dingchen , Wang Jinglin , Zhu Ronghui , Elowitz Michael B.
Published: December 2024

Artificial neural networks provide a powerful paradigm for nonbiological information processing. To understand whether similar principles could enable computation within living cells, we combined de novo–designed protein heterodimers and engineered viral proteases to implement a synthetic protein circuit that performs winner-take-all neural network classification. This “perceptein” circuit combines weighted input summation through reversible binding interactions with self-activation and mutual inhibition through irreversible proteolytic cleavage. These interactions collectively generate a large repertoire of distinct protein species stemming from up to eight coexpressed starting protein species. The complete system achieves multi-output signal classification with tunable decision boundaries in mammalian cells and can be used to conditionally control cell death. These results demonstrate how engineered protein-based networks can enable programmable signal classification in living cells.
Optical devices as thin as atoms
Authors: Li Melissa , Li Qitong , Brongersma Mark L. , Atwater Harry A.
Published: December 2024

Controlling exciton resonances in twodimensional materials can create dynamic flat optics
Neanderthal ancestry through time: Insights from genomes of ancient and present-day humans
Authors: Iasi Leonardo N. M. , Chintalapati Manjusha , Skov Laurits , Mesa Alba Bossoms , Hajdinjak Mateja , Peter Benjamin M. , Moorjani Priya
Published: December 2024

Gene flow from Neanderthals has shaped genetic and phenotypic variation in modern humans. We generated a catalog of Neanderthal ancestry segments in more than 300 genomes spanning the past 50,000 years. We examined how Neanderthal ancestry is shared among individuals over time. Our analysis revealed that the vast majority of Neanderthal gene flow is attributable to a single, shared extended period of gene flow that occurred between 50,500 to 43,500 years ago, as evidenced by ancestry correlation, colocalization of Neanderthal segments across individuals, and divergence from the sequenced Neanderthals. Most natural selection—positive and negative—on Neanderthal variants occurred rapidly after the gene flow. Our findings provide new insights into how contact with Neanderthals shaped modern human origins and adaptation.
Catastrophic and persistent loss of common murres after a marine heatwave
Authors: Renner Heather M. , Piatt John F. , Renner Martin , Drummond Brie A. , Laufenberg Jared S. , Parrish Julia K.
Published: December 2024

Recent marine heatwaves have had pervasive effects on marine ecosystems, from declines in primary production to die-offs of top predators. Seabird mortalities are often observed in association with heatwaves, but population impacts are not well understood. In this work, we report the rapid mortality of approximately half of Alaska’s common murre (
Uria aalge
) population in response to an extreme marine heatwave. Between the 7-year period before (2008–2014) and after (2016–2022) the heatwave, murre numbers plummeted 52 to 78% at 13 colonies across two large marine ecosystems. We calculated a loss of 4.00 million common murres, the largest documented wildlife mortality event in the modern era. No evidence of recovery has yet been observed, suggesting that these ecosystems may no longer support historic numbers of seabird top predators.
Nanobinders advance screen-printed flexible thermoelectrics
Authors: Chen Wenyi , Shi Xiao-Lei , Li Meng , Liu Ting , Mao Yuanqing , Liu Qingyi , Dargusch Matthew , Zou Jin , Lu Gao Qing (Max) , Chen Zhi-Gang
Published: December 2024

Limited flexibility, complex manufacturing processes, high costs, and insufficient performance are major factors restricting the scalability and commercialization of flexible inorganic thermoelectrics for wearable electronics and other high-end cooling applications. We developed an innovative, cost-effective technology that integrates solvothermal, screen-printing, and sintering techniques to produce an inorganic flexible thermoelectric film. Our printable film, comprising Bi
2
Te
3
-based nanoplates as highly orientated grains and Te nanorods as “nanobinders,” shows excellent thermoelectric performance for printable films, good flexibility, large-scale manufacturability, and low cost. We constructed a flexible thermoelectric device assembled by printable n-type Bi
2
Te
3
-based and p-type Bi
0.4
Sb
1.6
Te
3
films, which achieved a normalized power density of >3 μW cm
−2
K
−2
, ranking among the highest in screen-printed devices. Moreover, this technology can be extended to other inorganic thermoelectric film systems, such as Ag
2
Se, showing broad applicability.
In Other Journals
Authors: Ash Caroline , Osborne Ian S. , Kelly Priscilla N. , Stern Peter , Maroso Mattia , Szuromi Phil , McCartney Melissa
Published: December 2024

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
Complete genome sequence of an
Escherichia coli
ST7366 strain harboring an extended-spectrum β-lactamase gene isolated from sewage water in Pakistan
Authors: Lee Jung Hun , Yasmin Saba , Kim Nam-Hoon , Jeong Chanyeong , Kang Byeonghyeon , Lee Gwangje , Kim Dae-Wi , Zahra Rabaab , Lee Sang Hee
Published: December 2024

We announce the complete genome of
Escherichia coli
strain PEC1003 belonging to ST7366, isolated from sewage water in Pakistan. This strain harbored a plasmid carrying various antibiotic resistance genes, including extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL),
bla
CTX-M-15
, emphasizing the management and surveillance of ESBL-producing
E. coli
in the environment of developing countries.
Deep-Sea Borehole Fluid Pressure and Temperature Observations at Subduction Zones and their Geodynamic Implications
Authors: Davis Earl , Sun Tianhaozhe , Becker Keir , Heesemann Martin , Villinger Heinrich , Wang Kelin
Published: December 2024

Seafloor and subseafloor temperature and pressure monitoring has been carried out with CORK (“Circulation Obviation Retrofit Kit”) sealed deep-ocean borehole observatories since their original design and deployments in 1991 in hydrologically and tectonically active settings. In this paper, we review results from twenty installations at six subduction zones that have provided novel insights into the thermal and hydrologic state, time-dependent deformation, and elastic properties of the subseafloor. Monitoring depths reached the levels of the megathrust faults beneath the outer subduction prisms at Nankai, Costa Rica, and Barbados, but only at the last were substantially elevated average pressures observed (excess fluid-pressure ratios of ~ 0.3 and 0.5). Otherwise, all records are characterized by fluid pressures only slightly super-hydrostatic. Transient pressure anomalies are observed to be common within both the subduction prisms and the incoming subducting plates. These reflect deformation (volumetric strain changes) caused by distant seismogenic fault slip at the time of large earthquakes, and by more local slow slip that is seen to propagate to the outermost reaches of the prisms from greater depths at rates of several kilometers per day. No such activity is seen at the Cascadia prism site, however, suggesting that its subduction fault is more completely locked. Where CORK observatories are co-located with or near seismometers and other seafloor monitoring instruments and are connected to cable systems for power, real-time high-rate data acquisition and precise timing, the observations allow relationships among seismic ground motion, seafloor pressure, and formation pressure to be defined. These, in turn, constrain formation elastic properties, and confirm the efficiency and fidelity with which strain is converted to formation pressure.
A FRAMEWORK FOR ROCK PROPERTY DATA ACQUISITION, VISUALIZATION AND ANALYSIS: AN EXAMPLE FROM THE BATHURST MINING CAMP, NORTHERN NEW BRUNSWICK
Authors: Morris William A. , Ugalde Hernan , Dahn Dustin , Sorge Jolane
Published: December 2024

Petrophysical studies provide the link between geophysical grids and interpretive geological maps. In this study we assess the reliability of some physical property measurements: density, magnetic susceptibility, IP/Resistivity, and conductivity. Comparing susceptibility measurements obtained with different instruments shows there is a need for careful selection of sensor coil frequency and use of a suite of reference standards. For density measurements we show more reliable estimates require the sensitivity of the weighing scale be adjusted relative to sample weight and that a vacuum saturation tank is needed when the sample may have significant porosity. Galvanic resistivity measurements on hand samples are limited by the ability to properly estimate the effective cross-sectional area. Inductive conductivity instruments generally have a limited sensitivity range. We recommend the study of physical properties based on the concept of populations associated with stratigraphic units, rather than based on lithology. We present a suite of data visualizations which highlight different aspects of the sampled lithologies. Cross plots, ordered data plots, and violin plots permit the recognition of populations, and outliers. Henkel plots using templates with known mineralogical input parameters allow the identification of geological factors such as enhanced feldspar content, serpentinization, alteration, etc. Analysis of the sample data from the Bathurst Mining Camp, New Brunswick reveals which units have sufficient petrophysical contrast to permit pseudo-geological mapping. More specifically, not all basalts have high susceptibility and low density; it is impossible to discriminate between the various packages of rhyolites, and there is little difference between the granites sampled.
Modeling, Control and Guidance of an Autonomous Wheeled Mobile Robot AWMR: A Comparative Study between Three Yaw Moment Control Techniques for Autopilot Design with Experimental Results
Authors: Abrougui Helmi , Nejim Samir
Published: December 2024

This paper presents the development of an autopilot system for self-driving an autonomous wheeled vehicle. A mathematical model, including the power allocation system, has been designed for a vehicle with three degrees of freedom. All model parameters have been identified through experimental trials. Heading and speed controllers were designed based on Lyapunov theory. These controllers have been further fine-tuned and tested through simulations to verify their robustness against external disturbances in the system dynamics. Moreover, this work proposes guidance approaches that allow the vehicle to track desired waypoints (line of sight (LOS)), and follow a given path (cross-track error) and a predefined trajectory with obstacle avoidance. A comparative study was also proposed in this paper, wherein we evaluate the paths followed by the vehicle using distinct yaw moment control techniques which are; differential thrust controller, solely relying on a steering controller, and a combination of both. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed autopilot system, we have conducted experimental tests, specifically focusing on waypoint tracking control (LOS method). The results underscore the system’s capabilities and its potential in real-world applications.
DisConnect: Characterisation of screen use and perception of health problems in students from Aveiro, Portugal: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Gomes Fábio Sousa , Chen-Xu José , Conceição Cristina , Claro Fátima , Abrantes Emídio , Seabra Dulce
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Digitalization has made technologies an important vehicle for development and learning, especially for children and young people. However, multiple risks of excessive or inappropriate use have been described. This study aimed at characterising the use of screens in young Portuguese students and the association with perceived health problems in the Aveiro municipality.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2019 and April 2020 to students enrolled in schools in the Aveiro municipality, through a questionnaire applied to 4th, 6th and 8th-graders. A descriptive analysis characterised the screen use, while logistic regressions assessed association with perceived health outcomes.
Results: Four of the 989 students who responded to the questionnaire (0.4%) reported not using any screen device. Around 57% reported not taking any device to school. Screen time spent during weekdays was associated with higher reduction on physical activity (adjOR=2.54, p=0.019). Receiving a device between 0-5 years old showed positive association with body pain (adjOR=1.62, p=0.034), and using screens at school was associated with more problems at home (adjOR=2.04, p=0.01). Screen use during meals and having screens in the bedroom during sleep were consistently associated with a more negative perception of health outcomes.
Discussion: Literature points to a multitude of possible health consequences regarding inadequate or excessive screen use, but most data is based on small samples and a limited number of observations. This is one of the first studies describing screen use among young school goers in Portugal, and the first using a big representative sample of Aveiro students. Our study gives some insight on the screen habits of young people, and demonstrates that some habits can have impact on important aspects such as physical activity, body pain and family dynamics.
Conclusion: Screen use and screen habits have important consequences in multiple aspects of health. Systematic data collection on screen use and its impact on health, including mental health, among school goers is essential, particularly to understand long-term effects and allow effective prevention strategies.
Multicenter Evaluation of Machine-Learning Continuous Pulse Rate Algorithm on Wrist-Worn Device
Authors: Chen Weixuan , Cordero Rafael , Lever Taylor Jessie , Pangallo Domenico R. , Picard Rosalind W. , Cruz Marisa , Regalia Giulia
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Though wrist-worn photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors play an important role in long-term and continuous heart rhythm monitoring, signals measured at the wrist are contaminated by more intense motion artifacts compared to other body locations. Machine learning (ML)-based algorithms can improve long-term pulse rate (PR) tracking but are associated with more stringent regulatory requirements when intended for clinical use. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of a digital health technology using wrist-worn PPG sensors and an ML-based algorithm to measure PR continuously. Methods: Volunteers were enrolled in three independent clinical trials and concurrently monitored with the investigational device and FDA-cleared electrocardiography (ECG) devices during supervised protocols representative of real-life activities. The primary acceptance threshold was an accuracy root-mean-square (ARMS) ≤3 beats per minute (bpm) or 5 bpm under no-motion and motion conditions, respectively. Bias, mean absolute error (MAE), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), limits of agreement (LoA), and Pearson and Lin’s concordance correlation coefficients (⍴ and CCC) were also computed. Subgroup and outlier analyses were conducted to examine the effect of site, skin tone, age, sex, body mass index (BMI), and health status on PR accuracy. Results: Collectively, 16,915 paired observations between the device and the reference ECG were analyzed from 157 subjects (male: 49.04%, age mean: 43 years, age range: 19–83 years, BMI mean: 26.4, BMI range: 17.5–52, Fitzpatrick class V-IV: 22.9%, cardiovascular condition: 24%). The PR output attained an accuracy of 1.67 bpm under no-motion (n = 5,621 min) and 4.39 bpm under motion (n = 11,294 min), satisfying the acceptance thresholds. Bias and LoA (lower, upper LoA) were −0.09 (−3.36, 3.17) bpm under no-motion and 0.51 (−8.05, 9.06) bpm under motion. MAE was 0.6 bpm in no-motion and 1.77 bpm in motion, and MAPE was 0.86% in no-motion and 2.05% in motion, with ⍴ and CCC >0.98 in both conditions. ARMS values met the clinical acceptance threshold in all relevant subgroups at each clinical site separately, excluding male subjects under motion conditions (ARMS = 5.41 bpm), with more frequent and larger outliers due to stronger forearm contractions. However, these mostly occurred in isolation and, therefore would not impact the clinical utility or usability of the device for its intended use of retrospective review and trend analysis (⍴ and CCC >0.97 and MAPE = 2.61%). Conclusion: The analytical validation conducted in this study demonstrated clinical-grade accuracy and generalizability of ML-based continuous PR estimations across a full range of physical motions, health conditions, and demographic variables known to confound PPG signals, paving the way for device usage by populations most likely to benefit from continuous PR monitoring.
Gastrointestinal Neuroectodermal Tumor/Extraskeletal Ewing Sarcoma of the Ileum with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: She Tianyu , Ren Stephanie , Katz Seymour
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Malignant gastrointestinal neuroectodermal tumor (GNET), previously known as clear cell sarcoma-like tumor of the gastrointestinal tract, is an extremely rare and aggressive mesenchymal neoplasm characterized by high rates of recurrence, metastases, and mortality. Currently, there are no standardized guidelines for therapy. Case Presentation: We present a case of GNET in a 32-year-old male with a history of lymphoma and ulcerative colitis (UC), who also had synchronous multiple liver metastasis. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of GNET in a patient with inflammatory bowel disease. Conclusion: The narrow time frame in which UC and GNET were diagnosed warrants further investigation into their potential relationship.
A meta-analysis assessing the therapeutic efficacy and safety of anlotinib in combination with chemotherapy for small cell lung cancer
Authors: Gao Ting , Zhao Peiwen , He Xiaopeng , Zhao Meng , Shang Yajuan , Si Xiaomin
Published: December 2024

Introduction: This meta-analysis aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of combining anlotinib with chemotherapy in treating patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC).
Methods: We systematically searched a range of databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, up to July 28, 2023, complemented by searches in Chinese databases such as CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP, through July 4, 2023. The outcomes analyzed were objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), median PFS (mPFS), overall survival (OS), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels, and the adverse events.
Results: The analysis, which integrated data from 16 studies encompassing 1,083 patients, demonstrated that the combined treatment of anlotinib and chemotherapy significantly outperformed either anlotinib or chemotherapy alone in enhancing the ORR, DCR, and mPFS. Furthermore, this combination therapy also resulted in improved PFS, 1-year and 2-year overall OS, and reduced levels of VEGF) compared to chemotherapy alone, with all comparisons reaching statistical significance (P < 0.05). The combination of anlotinib with chemotherapy exhibited a considerably elevated risk of developing leukopenia (RR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.82, P =0.008). The subgroup analyses indicated the anlotinib plus etoposide group and anlotinib plus irinotecan were superior to the etoposide and the irinotecan groups, respectively, in terms of ORR outcome and DCR outcome. The subgroup analysis revealed that the combination of anlotinib and etoposide significantly increased the risk of thrombocytopenia and myelosuppression compared to etoposide alone. In patients with a history of one or an unspecified number of chemotherapy cycles, the integration of anlotinib into the chemotherapy regimen improved DCR. Conversely, in those who had undergone more than two prior treatment cycles, the risk of myelosuppression was heightened with the addition of anlotinib. Lastly, the risk of gastrointestinal adverse events was increased in patients receiving more than two treatment cycles of anlotinib plus chemotherapy compared to anlotinib monotherapy.
Conclusion: The findings of this investigation imply that the integration of anlotinib into chemotherapy regimens may enhance PFS, ORR, DCR, and OS in SCLC patients. This meta-analysis presents novel therapeutic prospects for SCLC, suggesting that the synergistic approach of anlotinib and chemotherapy could markedly enhance treatment outcomes for this patient population.
Analytical validation of wrist-worn accelerometer-based step count methods during structured and free-living activities
Authors: Marcotte Robert T. , Bachman Shelby L. , Zhai Yaya , Clay Ieuan , Lyden Kate
Published: December 2024

Introduction
Wrist-worn accelerometers can capture stepping behavior passively, continuously, and remotely. Methods utilizing peak detection, threshold crossing, and frequency analysis have been used to detect steps from wrist-worn accelerometer data, but it remains unclear how different approaches perform across a range of walking speeds and free-living activities. In this study, we evaluated the performance of four open-source methods for deriving step counts from wrist-worn accelerometry data, when applied to data from a range of structured locomotion and free-living activities. In addition, we assessed how modifying the parameters of these methods would affect their performance.
Methods
Twenty-one participants (ages 20-33) wore an ActiGraph CentrePoint Insight Watch (Actigraph, LLC) on their non-dominant wrist while completing structured locomotion activities in a motion capture laboratory and during a free-living period in a mock apartment. Criterion step counts were determined from motion capture heel-strike events and from a StepWatch 3 (Modus Health, LLC) during the free-living period. Four open-source methods implementing different algorithmic approaches were applied to CPIW data to derive step counts. The quantity and timing of method-derived and criterion steps during each type of activity were then compared.
Results
In terms of performance during structured locomotion, methods that relied on a single parameter, such as peak detection or threshold crossing, demonstrated the lowest bias among those investigated. Furthermore, three of four investigated four methods overestimated step counts during slow walking and underestimated step counts during fast walking while the last method consistently underestimated at least half of the recorded steps across all speeds. During free-living activities, the method relying on frequency analysis exhibited the lowest percent error of all methods. Finally, we found that the incorporation of a locomotion classifier, wherein steps were only estimated during identified locomotion periods, reduced error for two methods when applied to data across structured and free-living settings.
Conclusion
In studying the performance of different step counting approaches across different settings, we found a tradeoff between performance during structured walking and that during free-living activities. These findings highlight the opportunity for novel, context-aware methods for accurate step counting across real-world settings.
Increased resistance of the peripheral airways in patients with unexplained chronic cough
Authors: Ternesten-Hasseus Ewa , Johansson Ewa-Lena , Millqvist Eva
Published: December 2024

Introduction Troublesome coughing that persists for more than 8 weeks without evident aetiology or effective therapy is termed unexplained chronic cough (UCC). Using impulse oscillometry (IOS) and spirometry, we assessed the functionalities of the large and small airways, respectively, in patients with UCC and in healthy control subjects.
Methods On a single occasion, 50 patients with UCC (mean age, 61 years; 82% women) and 23 subjectively healthy controls (mean age, 58.9 years; 95.7% women) underwent IOS and spirometry. Patients with UCC were also subjected to fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) measurement, and they answered a local questionnaire, a visual analogue scale (VAS) for cough and cough-related symptoms, and a health-related quality of life questionnaire.
Results Forty-nine (98%) patients with UCC reported cough symptoms from exposure to chemicals, 39 (78%) had problems with cold air, and 38 (76%) had cough symptoms following exercise. The mean VAS cough score was 62 mm in the patient group. FeNO was measured in 25 patients, showing a mean value of 16.6 ppb. Women with UCC had significantly greater airway resistance and reactance than men with UCC. The UCC group showed significantly increased peripheral airway resistance and reactance, and lower FEV1 % predicted values (albeit within the normal range), as compared with the healthy control group.
Conclusion Patients with UCC show increased peripheral airway resistance and significantly lower FEV1 % predicted values compared with healthy control subjects. Routine measurements of lung function with both IOS and spirometry could have added value in the diagnosis of UCC.
Treatment of Pediatric Colchicine Poisoning with Single-Pass Albumin Dialysis: A Case Report
Authors: Bahadori Atessa , Patel Rishil , Robinson Cal , Balgobin Steve , Zappitelli Michael , Selvathesan Nithiakishna
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Colchicine has a narrow therapeutic index, and doses >0.5 mg/kg are considered toxic with a high mortality rate. Case Presentation: A previously healthy 15-year-old presents to the emergency department with abdominal pain and vomiting following intentional ingestion of colchicine (0.56 mg/kg) 12 h prior. By 24 h post-ingestion, they developed a multi-organ injury with hepatic dysfunction, coagulopathy, lactic acidemia, and pancytopenia, which prompted consideration of extracorporeal therapy (ECT). Considering the characteristics of colchicine, they were treated with continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) with single-pass albumin dialysis (SPAD) for 42 h. They were subsequently discharged from the intensive care unit 48 h after stopping CVVHDF with normal kidney function, resolved coagulopathy, and resolving pancytopenia and hepatic dysfunction. The rationale for CVVHDF with SPAD was based on the high protein binding, variably high volume of distribution, previous reports showing a sieving coefficient of 0.2 with CVVH, and the high mortality risk. We anticipated a high potential for rebound. Thus, continuous clearance would facilitate redistribution from the extravascular to intravascular space. SPAD was used to enhance the elimination of protein-bound fractions; the principle is that adding albumin to dialysate creates a protein-binding disequilibrium where the drug from the blood side may bind to albumin on the dialysate side. Conclusion: Colchicine ingestion of >0.5 mg/kg is highly toxic, and in addition to supportive management, continuous kidney replacement therapy with SPAD may be considered.
Teorias pós-críticas da juventude: juvenilização, tribalismo e socialização ativa
Authors: Groppo Luis Antonio
Published: December 2024

(analítico): Por meio de uma revisão analítica da bibliografa fundamental sobre sociologia da juventude, objetivou-se compreender as concepções sociológicas de juventude na contemporaneidade. Elas podem ser descritas como teorias pós-críticas da juventude, destacando-se duas tendências. Primeiro, aquela influenciada pelas correntes pós-modernistas e pós-estruturalistas, que geraram noções como “tribos juvenis” e “juventude-signo”. Segundo, aquela influenciada pelas teorias da segunda modernidade, que refletem sobre a quebra na linearidade das transições juvenis e sobre as socializações ativas. Estas teorias implodem a concepção tradicional de juventude, do estrutural-funcionalismo, tornando a sociologia da juventude uma especialidade em que é necessário paciência e habilidade para lidar com imprecisos e flexíveis referenciais, como socialização, moratória, transição e tribos
Entre la calle, la escuela, y las instituciones: trayectorias institucionales de jóvenes
Authors: Litichever Cecilia
Published: December 2024

(descriptivo): Presento en este artículo un análisis sobre las trayectorias de vida de jóvenes que han sido sujetos destinatarios de políticas sociales de atención a la infancia y juventud, y que asisten a la escuela, en la Ciudad de Buenos Aires. A partir de un estudio de trayectorias describo las tramas institucionales por las que circulan los individuos jóvenes que viven fuera de sus hogares familiares y que se encuentran en condiciones de pobreza. Así, busco reconstruir la malla institucional que atiende a esta población, de modo tal de poder analizar los circuitos institucionales de atención en los que estas personas jóvenes se encuentran inmersas, indagando particularmente en la relación existente entre el sistema de las políticas asistenciales y el sistema escolar
Modelo Operativo de gestión de redes sociales para el sistema penal adolescente, Chile
Authors: Andradre-Gyllen Claudio , García-Ojeda Mauricio , Zambrano-Constanzo Alba
Published: December 2024

(analítico): En el artículo analizamos los principales resultados del diseño, implementación y evaluación de un modelo operativo de gestión de redes sociales, utilizando la metodología de investigación acción participante (IAP) en programas del sistema de responsabilidad penal adolescente, en la Región de Los Ríos, Chile. Los resultados evidencian cambios favorables en la gestión y en la estructura de la red de actores de los programas participantes. El modelo operativo de gestión de redes sociales nos permitió superar las actuales restricciones de articulación del sistema de responsabilidad penal adolescente, dando énfasis a la capacidad de los actores del sistema para desarrollar nuevas formas de coordinación territorial que favorezcan la integración social de los individuos jóvenes infractores de ley.
Un acercamiento a la comprensión del perfil de la Inteligencia Emocional
Authors: Isaza-Zapata Gloria María , Calle-Piedrahíta Juan Santiago
Published: December 2024

(reflexivo-analítico): Este artículo es resultado de un estudio de inteligencia emocional. En la investigación nos propusimos como objetivo general, analizar el perfil de inteligencia emocional y social de una muestra de 110 docentes de educación básica primaria, vinculados a diez instituciones educativas de la ciudad de Medellín, Colombia.El alcance es descriptivo, no experimental, y correlacional; y está apoyado con método probabilístico, simple al azar y estratificado. Los resultados obtenidos desde el perfil destacan la relación con: autorregulación, automotivación, empatía, tiempo de métodos asertivos, eficaz el método y juzgarse a sí mismo; detectando una correlación con tendencia a cero entre las variables.En conclusión, la inteligencia emocional y social del maestro o maestra de básica primaria tiende a establecer un reconocimiento de sus habilidades, sus limitaciones, su sensibilidad hacia el aprendizaje personal y su influencia en el sujeto estudiante.
Entrenamiento Cognitivo de las Funciones Ejecutivas en la Edad Escolar
Authors: Betancur-Caro María Luisa , Molina David A. , Cañizales-Romaña Lilian Yohana
Published: December 2024

(analítico): En este artículo nuestro objetivo es evaluar y analizar el Rendimiento Académico de un niño en edad escolar a partir de un programa de entrenamiento cognitivo de las Funciones Ejecutivas. Realizamos el estudio de caso en tres momentos: evaluación inicial pretest con subpruebas de la Banfe y la ENI; identificamos el estado de las funciones ejecutivas, el entrenamiento cognitivo del Control Inhibitorio, la Fluidez y la Planeación, y la evaluación final postest con el mismo repertorio de la evaluación inicial, a fin de identificar los logros del entrenamiento cognitivo sobre las funciones ejecutivas y el rendimiento académico. Resultados y conclusiones: El entrenamiento cognitivo favoreció las funciones ejecutivas estimuladas; sin embargo, no logramos demostrar una relación concluyente entre las funciones ejecutivas y el rendimiento académico.