bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploratory Study of a Financial Education Intervention to Promote Financial Well-Being in Low-Income Mothers
Authors: Bhattacharya Radha , Barrows Jennifer , Hayakawa Jennifer , Lobo Rachel , Lubahn Michelle
Published: December 2024

Background.
Financial well-being has only recently been acknowledged as a social determinant of health. This study explored a framework for delivering financial education to low-income, primarily Hispanic mothers.
Methods.
A financial education intervention was developed for low-income mothers of infants based on formative data gathered from focus groups, cognitive interviews, and a pilot survey. Participants attended five weekly 30-minute classes taught in small groups using a virtual format. Self-reported surveys were administered at baseline and post-intervention to explore associations between financial well-being and baseline demographic and financial characteristics, examine factors that influenced financial education class attendance, and evaluate the impact of financial education on mothers’ financial outcomes and well-being.
Results.
Of the 56 participants enrolled in the study from March 2021 to February 2022, 18 attended at least one class and 15 completed the post-intervention survey. Financial confidence and behavior were positively associated with financial well-being (p = .00). Attitude toward saving predicted financial behavior (p = .00). Common barriers to attendance included lack of time and the need for childcare. Following financial education, participants reported feeling more comfortable going to a bank to inquire about a product or service (p = .0001) and greater ability to make financial decisions new to them (p = .03). While overall financial well-being did not change, the ability to handle a major expense improved (p = .004).
Discussion.
Given the limited time that new mothers can dedicate to financial education, the goals of such programs should focus on building confidence in making informed financial decisions and fostering a positive attitude toward saving.
A systematic review of the impact of long-term endurance training on negative cardiac remodelling in athletes: can we do too much exercise?
Authors: Gosden Jack Alexander George
Published: December 2024

Background
The benefits of undertaking regular physical exercise in lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease is recognised. However, there is concern surrounding the negative cardiac remodelling that can ensue from excessive training. The systematic review aimed to examine the point at which endurance training becomes detrimental to the left ventricle and whether risk reduction guidelines should be introduced.
Methods
From 5th to 19th February 2024, studies were identified from Scopus and MEDLINE. Inclusion criteria focused on endurance athletes and negative cardiac remodelling specific to the left side. Only studies from period 2004 to 2024, involved human participants, and included original data were considered.
Results
Of the 389 articles identified, 17 studies met the selection criteria. ROBINS-I was used to assess overall risk of bias, where determined 3 were found to have serious, 10 moderate, and 4 low bias. The studies showed that frequent endurance training could lead to significant left ventricular remodelling with high volume training regimens and high cumulative training hours being associated with greater derangement in left ventricular morphology and function. Remodelling was observed in as little as two years with notable changes in adolescents.
Conclusion
Participants in high volume training over a sustained period of as little as two years, appeared to have a greater extent of changes to the left ventricle compared to those who trained a lesser amount. This review highlights the necessity of additional research to understand fully the association between volume and total lifetime hours of endurance training and their effects on heart morphology. This understanding will be essential in developing guidelines to address the potential risks of high-volume endurance training.
Constrction and validation of a nomogram model for pulmonary infection after aneurysm embolization
Authors: Lin Xiaoyong , Deng Yifan , Luo Honghai , Xu Ke , Wei Yingcong , Li Wencai , Zeng Haiyong , Zhu Gang
Published: December 2024

Blackground and objective: In order to analyze the risk factors associated with pulmonary infection following aneurysm embolization, we developed a nomogram model and validated its predictive accuracy. Methods: Clinical data pertaining to patients who underwent aneurysm embolization procedures at Huizhou Central People’s Hospital during the period from 2019 to 2023 were retrieved utilizing the hospital's electronic medical record system.Variables including age, Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (PLR), Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SIRI), Red Blood Cell Distribution Width-to-Albumin/Globulin Ratio (RDWAGR), and creatinine (CREA) levels were calculated. The variables identified were subsequently incorporated into a logistic regression model to evaluate their associations with the incidence of pulmonary infections subsequent to aneurysm embolization surgery.A nomogram model was subsequently developed and validated, with its predictive performance assessed via the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve. Results: Logistic regression analysis identified that age, PLR, SIRI, RDWAGR, d-NLR, and FIB were significantly associated with postoperative pulmonary infection (P < 0.05). Drawing upon these significant variables, the constructed nomogram model demonstrated robust discriminatory power in forecasting the risk of pulmonary infection, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.769, signifying a high level of predictive precision.The calibration plot exhibited satisfactory alignment between the model's predicted probabilities and the observed outcomes. Additionally, internal validation assessments further underscored the nomogram model's stability and reproducibility. Conclusions: The nomogram model established in this research accurately forecasts the risk of pulmonary infection in patients post-aneurysm embolization surgery, showcasing robust predictive capabilities and significant clinical utility. This tool can be a pivotal asset for clinicians in postoperative care, facilitating early identification of patients at high risk and guiding the customization of intervention strategies.
When algorithms replace biologists: A Discrete Choice Experiment for the valuation of risk-prediction tools in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Rafaï Ismaël , Davin-Casalena Berengere , Dubois Dimitri , Blayac Thierry , Ventelou Bruno
Published: December 2024

Background.
Earlier detection of neurodegenerative diseases may help patients plan for their future, achieve a better quality of life, access clinical trials and possible future disease modifying treatments. Due to recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI), a significant help can come from the computational approaches targeting diagnosis and monitoring. Yet, detection tools are still underused. We aim to investigate the factors influencing individual valuation of AI-based prediction tools.
Methods.
We study individual valuation for early diagnosis tests for neurodegenerative diseases when Artificial Intelligence Diagnosis is an option. We conducted a Discrete Choice Experiment on a representative sample of the French adult public (N = 1017), where we presented participants with a hypothetical risk of developing in the future a neurodegenerative disease. We ask them to repeatedly choose between two possible early diagnosis tests that differ in terms of (1) type of test (biological tests vs AI tests analyzing electronic health records); (2) identity of whom communicates tests’ results; (3) sensitivity; (4) specificity; and (5) price. We study the weight in the decision for each attribute and how socio-demographic characteristics influence them.
Results.
Our results are twofold: respondents indeed reveal a reduced utility value when AI testing is at stake (that is evaluated to 36.08 euros in average, IC = [22.13; 50.89]) and when results are communicated by a private company (95.15 €, IC = [82.01; 109.82]).
Conclusion.
We interpret these figures as the shadow price that the public attaches to medical data privacy. The general public is still reluctant to adopt AI screening on their health data, particularly when these screening tests are carried out on large sets of personal data.
Integrating Low-Carbon Principles in Smart Product Design: An LCD-AHP-TRIZ Approach
Authors: Xu Hui Zhen , Chen Jun
Published: December 2024

The imperative to achieve carbon neutrality has prompted a critical reassessment of product design, emphasizing the need for low-carbon intelligent product design. This study addresses the significant gap in existing methodologies' ability to integrate low-carbon principles with the dynamic and complex nature of smart products. To bridge this gap, we introduce an innovative 'LCD-AHP-TRIZ' approach that synergizes full life-cycle design (LCD), Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and Theory of Inventive Problem Solving (TRIZ). The LCD phase comprehensively reviews a product's life cycle to identify the key low-carbon design indicators. The AHP method then quantitatively assesses these indicators and determines their relative importance using a hierarchical structure. TRIZ was subsequently applied to resolve design conflicts and foster innovative solutions. The study's key findings underscore the strategic prioritization of low-carbon design indicators and the development of an intelligent dehumidifier as a case study, demonstrating the practical application of the 'LCD-AHP-TRIZ' model. This research contributes significantly to the field by providing a systematic, interdisciplinary approach that enhances the environmental performance of smart products, aligning with the broader goals of sustainable development.
PDK1-dependent metabolic reprogramming regulates stemness and tumorigenicity of osteosarcoma stem cells through ATF3
Authors: Hinoi Eiichi , Tokumura Kazuya , Fukasawa Kazuya , Hiraiwa Manami
Published: December 2024

Osteosarcoma stem cells (OSCs) are characterized by their self-renewal and multilineage differentiation abilities, contributing to osteosarcoma (OS) malignancy. The Warburg effect describes cancer cells’ preference for glycolysis over mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) for energy production. Unlike differentiated cancer cells, cancer stem cells exhibit unique and diverse metabolic properties depending on the context. This study investigated the metabolic reliance of OSCs and related genes through in silico analyses of clinical OS specimens and in vitro and in vivo genetic and pharmacological analyses. Glycolysis and OXPHOS pathways were more active in OSCs than in non-OSCs at single-cell resolution. Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDK1), a key enzyme balancing glycolysis and OXPHOS, was upregulated in OSCs and correlated with poor prognosis in patients with OS. Genetic inhibition of PDK1 via RNA interference reduced OSC stemness, tumorigenicity, and glycolysis. Pharmacological inhibition of PDK1 mirrored these genetic effects. Activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) was identified through screening as a downstream factor of PDK1-regulated OSC properties. Silencing ATF3 reduced OSC stemness, while ATF3 overexpression reversed the stemness reduction caused by PDK1 deficiency. ATF3 expression, glycolysis, and stemness were significantly induced by wild-type PDK1 overexpression but not by a kinase-dead PDK1 mutant in OSCs. Pharmacological inhibition of glycolysis counteracted the upregulation of ATF3 expression and increased stemness in OSCs by PDK1 overexpression. These findings indicate that PDK1 fine-tunes metabolic balance to govern OSC stemness and tumorigenicity through ATF3, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for targeting OSCs in OS.
Hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score: A risk prediction tool for incidence and mortality in diabetic kidney disease patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Xing Lingzhi , Xie Fangjiao , Zhong Zuorong , Chen BaiYuLu , Li Wenqing , Zhang Yingdan , Chen Liyuan , Liao GuoJia , Li Letai , Wang LeZhi , Gong Yubowen , Xu Qian , Wang Dan , Chen Ling
Published: December 2024

Background
The hemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet (HALP) score has been identified as a potential prognostic marker in various conditions. However, its relationship with the incidence and mortality of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in type 2 diabetes patients remains unexplored. This study aims to explore the relationship between the HALP score and both the incidence and mortality of DKD in type 2 diabetes, as well as whether reversing the HALP score could reduce mortality outcomes.
Methods
This study included 25,750 type 2 diabetes patients from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (1999–2018) and Southwest China (2013–2022). HALP score was calculated as [hemoglobin (g/L) × albumin (g/L)×lymphocytes (/L)]/platelets (/L). DKD was diagnosed based on urine albumin to creatinine ratio (ACR) ≥ 30 mg/g and/or estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73m². The relationship between HALP score and DKD was explored using logistic regression model, and Cox regression models were used to evaluate its association with all-cause and cause-specific mortality. Subgroup analyses explored the effects of dietary fiber intake and NSAIDs use on HALP score and mortality.
Results
Higher HALP score were significantly associated with a lower risk of DKD (NHANES, HR 0.502; Southwest China, HR 0.528) in an antagonist manner. Additionally, higher HALP score was related to decreased all-cause (HR 0.765, p < 0.001) and cardiovascular disease(CVD)-related mortality(HR 0.667, p < 0.001).We also discovered the same outcome in DKD patients with low dietary fiber intake (HR 0.695, p < 0.001) or NSAIDs use (HR 0.733, p < 0.001). The magnitude of associations was not materially altered in any of the sensitivity analyses.
Conclusions
High HALP score was independently associated with risk of DKD and its all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Regular HALP monitoring could aid in risk stratification and clinical decisions for DKD in type 2 diabetes.
Expression and mechanism of endogenous relaxin in hypertensive patients
Authors: Liu Chunnan , Wang Jingzhi , Zhang Xiaohui
Published: December 2024

Objective
This study aimed to investigate the role of endogenous relaxin in the development of hypertension by examining its expression in hypertensive patients and various hypertensive rat models.
Methods
In this study, 61 hypertensive patients and 31 matched healthy individuals in the control group were included. Plasma samples from all participants were analyzed for biochemical markers, including relaxin-2, relaxin-3, triglycerides, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Additionally, we examined the expression levels of relaxin-2 and relaxin-3 in both the heart and kidneys of rat models, specifically those with abdominal aortic coarctation and salt-sensitive hypertension. This allowed us to investigate the role of relaxin in these hypertensive conditions.
Results
There were no significant differences in age or gender between the control and hypertensive groups. However, the expression level of relaxin-2 in the hypertensive group was significantly lower compared to the control group. Specifically, the median plasma concentration of relaxin-2 in hypertensive patients was 7.61 pg/mL, while it was 9.34 pg/mL in the control group (P = 0.014). In contrast, relaxin-3 levels showed no significant difference between the hypertensive and control groups (P = 0.872). Correlation analysis indicated that relaxin-2 levels were associated with total cholesterol, red blood cell count, and white blood cell count, while relaxin-3 was only correlated with total cholesterol. In the kidney tissues of rats in the abdominal aortic coarctation model, relaxin-1, relaxin-3, and relaxin receptor 3 were significantly reduced compared to the control group (P < 0.05). In the salt-sensitive rat model, mRNA expression of relaxin-1 was increased, while relaxin receptor 1 mRNA was decreased compared to the control group.
Conclusion
The plasma level of relaxin-2 is decreased in hypertensive patients and shows correlations with total cholesterol, red blood cell count, and white blood cell count. These findings suggest that endogenous relaxin may play a role in the development of hypertension, potentially through specific signaling pathways in the kidneys.
Facile cascade-anchored synthesis of ultrahigh metal loading single-atom for significantly improved Fenton-like catalysis
Authors: Zhou Minghua , Li Shuaishuai , Wang Wei , Wu Hui , Wang Xuechun , Ding Shihu , Liu Jingyang , Zhang Xiuwu , Sun Jiangli , Fu Chunhong
Published: December 2024

It is important to break the low metal loading limited by stringent conditions and reveal the catalytic behavior of single-atom catalysts (SACs) governed by individual and interacting sites. Here, a facile and universal synthesis strategy was employed to achieve the highest loading of transition metals (Fe 41.31wt%, Mn 35.13wt%), rare-earth metals (La 28.62wt%), and noble metals (Ag 27.04wt%) to date. Systematic investigation confirms that the powerful ligand-chelation between oxalic acid and metal ions, as well as the simultaneously generated entangled polymer networks are crucial for achieving high-loading SACs. High single-atoms density induced site-intensive effects and site-to-site interactions, which regulated the local electron density of the catalyst, altered the electronic structure of metal, and shifted the valence state toward the metal. As a demonstration, the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) for sulfamethoxazole degradation showed a significant dependence on catalyst site density, with the rate constant at least 1-2 orders of magnitude higher than that of most current SACs. The higher metal loading increased the potential jumps in Fenton-like reaction, promoted the electron transfer and reduced the energy barrier of the rate-determining step in 1O2 generation. This material also showed promising prospect for real wastewater treatment due to its high decontamination efficiency and application stability. The cascade-anchoring synthesis strategy, which can maximize the atomically dispersed metal loadings and simultaneously enhance the reactivity, is universally applicable. It is anticipated that it will take SACs a step closer to practical applications.
Association of Low Hospital Birth Volume and Adverse Short-Term Outcomes for Neonates Treated with Therapeutic Hypothermia in Rural States
Authors: Craig Alexa , Cutler Anya , Kerecman Jay , Melendi Misty , Seften Leah Marie , Ryzewski Matthew , Zanno Allison , Barkhuff Whittney , O'Reilly Deirdre
Published: December 2024

Objective: We hypothesized that outborn neonates from smaller birth volume hospitals would have more frequent adverse short-term outcomes following therapeutic hypothermia (TH).
Study Design:Multicenter retrospective study comparing outcomes for small (<500 births/year), medium (501-1500 births/year), and large (>1500 births/year) hospitals in Northern New England. Multivariable logistic regression assessed the combined outcome of death/severe gray matter injury on MRI, controlling for encephalopathy severity and time to initiation of TH.
Results: 531 neonates were included from small (N=120), medium (N=193), and large (N=218) volume hospitals and TH was initiated at a median of 4.5, 4, and 2 hours of life respectively. The odds of the combined outcome were 4.3-fold higher in small versus large birth volume hospitals (95% CI = 1.6, 12.1, p=0.004), but not different in medium birth volume hospitals.
Conclusion: Neonates born in small volume hospitals had significantly higher odds of death or severe gray matter injury following TH.
Mapping the druggable targets displayed by human colonic enteroendocrine cells
Authors: Bewick Gavin , Lei Yuxian , Bohl Bettina , Meyer Leah , Jacobs Margot , Haq Naila , Yang Xiaoping , Hayee Bu’ Hussain , Murphy Kevin , Hashemi Parastoo
Published: December 2024

Enteroendocrine cells (EECs) are specialized intestinal hormone-secreting cells that play critical roles in metabolic homeostasis, digestion, and gut-brain communication. They detect diverse stimuli including endocrine, immune, neuronal, microbial, and dietary signals, through a complex array of receptors, ion channels, and transporters, to modulate the release of over 20 hormones. These molecular sensors serve as potential drug targets to modulate hormone secretion, but until recently, catalogues of such targets in human colonic EECs have not been produced. To address this gap, we performed bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing on fluorescently labelled EECs isolated from human colonic organoids, identifying and cataloguing potential druggable targets. This catalogue includes receptors, orphan GPCRs, transporters, and hormones not previously reported in human colonic EECs. Comparison with murine EECs highlighted interspecies similarities and differences, key data to facilitate the design and optimise the predictive accuracy of pre-clinical models. We also functionally validated two receptors not previously identified in human EECs: IL-13Rα1, was expressed in both peptide-producing EECs and serotonin producing Enterochromaffin cells (ECs), and its ligand IL-13 stimulated the secretion of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and serotonin measured in real-time, and GPR173, which was selectively expressed in ECs and, when activated by its agonist Phoenixin-20, also promoted serotonin release. These analyses provide a valuable resource for therapeutic interventions aimed at modulating gut hormone secretion, with potential applications in treating gastrointestinal, metabolic, and other related disorders.
Exploring Personalized Diagnosis and Intervention in Binge Eating Disorder: Five Case Reports
Authors: Hernández Montserrat Monserrat , Manrique Gabriel Aguilera , Puertas Lorena Gutiérrez
Published: December 2024

Background
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) has gained attention in recent years due to its complexity and the challenges it poses in diagnosis and treatment. Unlike other eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia, BED has been less researched, particularly regarding the influence of genetic factors. This study introduces a novel approach by individually analyzing how genetic predisposition impacts the diagnosis of BED, which in turn contributes to the development of more personalized and effective treatments. The primary objective of this research was to demonstrate the diagnostic variability and intervention possibilities in patients with BED, highlighting the importance of an interdisciplinary approach. Additionally, it aimed to identify individual factors—clinical, psychosocial, and genetic—that influence the presence of the disorder, and to evaluate the efficacy of personalized treatments that include psychological, psychiatric, and nutritional interventions tailored to each patient's unique needs.
Case presentation:
The main concerns of the patients were how to manage their food-related anxiety. Many felt stigmatized by their weight and guilty for being unable to control their binge eating, which they initially attributed to a lack of self-control. However, upon learning about their genetic profile, patients began to better understand their eating behaviors, allowing them to reduce the associated guilt. Clinically, it was observed that after receiving interdisciplinary treatment, which included both psychological interventions and precision nutritional management, binge eating episodes significantly decreased. In four out of five cases, binge eating disappeared completely.
Conclusions
This reinforces the importance of tailoring treatments to the genetic and psychosocial specifics of each patient, opening new research opportunities and improving the therapeutic approach for BED.
Efficacy and Safety of Qingbu Weijing Decoction in Treatment Stable Bronchiectasis: study protocol for a multicenter, double- blind, randomized and placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Jin-zhi , Yuan Sha-sha , Ruan Zhi-shen , Liu Shi-xu , Wang Bing , Miao Qing
Published: December 2024

Background: Bronchiectasis is characterized by persistent cough, excessive sputum production, and recurrent infections. Chronic cough and sputum are the primary manifestations of airway mucus hypersecretion, which leads to frequent acute exacerbations and severely impairs quality of life. Qingbu Weijing Decoction (QWD) has shown promising evidence for improving sputum production and reducing the inflammatory burden. Previous clinical studies suggest its potential to improve mucus hypersecretion and prevent future acute exacerbations. This trial aims to further evaluate the safety and efficacy of QWD in managing Stable bronchiectasis with airway mucus hypersecretion.
Methods: This prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial is designed to enroll 108 patients with stable bronchiectasis across six centers. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either QWD or a placebo in a 2:1 ratio, with a 24-week intervention period followed by 24 weeks of follow-up phase. The primary outcome is the number of acute exacerbations. Secondary outcomes include the time to first acute exacerbation, 24-hour sputum volume, pulmonary function test, modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea scale scores, quality of life-bronchiectasis scores, mucin levels (Mucin 5AC, Mucin 5B, Mucin 2, Mucin 4), airway flora diversity, and levels of inflammatory markers such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and neutrophil elastase. Safety metrics and adverse events will be meticulously monitored.
Discussion: This trial will provide research methods to evaluate the clinical efficacy, safety, and the possible mechanism of QWD in the treatment of stable bronchiectasis patients. In addition, we hope to provide more possibilities for TCM to participate in the management of stable bronchiectasis.
Clinical Trial Registration: China Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2400085606. Registered on 13 June 2024, https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=230513
Lab On chips for liquid biopsy: a flexible and customized approach through microfabrication
Authors: Garzarelli Valeria , Foscarini Alessia , Indirli Vanessa , Mangiullo Diego , Verri Tiziano , Primiceri Elisabetta , Nigro Annamaria , Quattrini Angelo , Romano Alessandro , Chiriacò Maria Serena , Gigli Giuseppe , Ferrara Francesco
Published: December 2024

Cancer early detection is one of the most challenging purposes of preventive medicine. Liquid biopsy represents a revolutionary approach, fostering access to early screening and increasing patients’ compliance, two crucial issues in reaching the largest possible audience in prevention campaigns. To facilitate this approach, the deployment of innovative methods for easy manipulation of biological fluids and the availability of devices for the rapid and low-cost detection of biomarkers is essential. The aim of this study was the optimization of multifunctional Lab-On-Chips with the final aim of realizing a platform for oral carcinoma cells trapping from a complex biological fluid as saliva and for specific subcellular components like extracellular vesicles (EVs) from the neuroblastoma cell model. A set of different microfluidic building blocks was realized through poly-methyl methacrylate (PMMA) micromilling, microfabricated and functionalized to optimize surface chemistry for capturing tumor cells or EVs in multiple channels, assess working concentration for biological fluids and combine sample preparation with detection modules all in the same chip. After optimization, a proof-of-concept device was realized mimicking liquid biopsy analysis from saliva, a biological fluid readily available and with a high compliance from patients, useful for the early diagnosis of cancer.
Ketamine as part of multi-modal analgesia may reduce opioid requirements following cardiac surgery: a retrospective observational cohort study
Authors: Hall James , Chung Juri , Khilkin Michael , Elkomos-Botros George
Published: December 2024

Background:
Postoperative pain control in cardiac surgery is often managed with opioid medications. Insufficient analgesia can result in complications including splinting, pneumonia, and delay of appropriate rehabilitation. Surgeries involving the highly innervated thoracic wall, such as cardiac surgery, make pain control particularly challenging. Given the risk for addiction and the many adverse effect of opioids in the postoperative patient including sedation, respiratory depression, delirium, and decrease gastrointestinal motility, multimodal non-opioid pain regimens are the preferential treatment regimen. Recently, there is increasing evidence that low dose Ketamine, an N-methyl-D-Aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, is a safe and effective for analgesia in postoperative patients.
Methods:
This study is a single center, retrospective, observational, cohort study involving adult patients admitted for cardiac surgery at a single center during a one year period comparing those who received a single dose of ketamine, 0.3 mg/kg over 30 minutes with those who did not. A total of 120 patient charts were reviewed, of which 96 met inclusion criteria. 32 patients had received ketamine and 64 had not. Charts were reviewed for opioid and other pain medication requirements as well as secondary outcomes including hospital length of stay, ICU length of stay, in-hospital and 30-day mortality, 30-day readmission, and rates of delirium, emergence reactions, and need for additional respiratory support.
Results:
The group who received ketamine required d 28.8 MME less opioid during admission (90.1 mg vs 118.9 mg, p = 0.167), and was prescribed an average of 15.8 MME less on discharge (p < 0.001). The groups differed in respect to operation type and controlling for this failed to achieve significance in needs during admission (p = 0.215), but remained significant on discharge (p = 0.02). The ketamine group also required less acetaminophen but more gabapentin. There was no difference in hospital or ICU length of stay, mortality, or readmission. 15 instances of respiratory escalation occurred, all included in the ketamine group, but all of these patients received ketamine following this decompensation, none preceding it.
Conclusions:
Ketamine may be a reasonable choice for postoperative cardiac surgery analgesia and may reduce the need for opioids on discharge, and possibly during admission.
Magic transition in measurement-only circuits
Authors: Tirrito Emanuele , Tarabunga Poetri
Published: December 2024

Magic, also known as nonstabilizerness, quantifies the distance of a quantum state to the set of stabilizer states, and it serves as a necessary resource for potential quantum advantage over classical computing.
In this work, we study magic in a measurement-only quantum circuit with competing types of Clifford and non-Clifford measurements, where magic is injected through the non-Clifford measurements. This circuit can be mapped to a classical model that can be simulated efficiently, and the magic can be characterized using any magic measure that is additive to the tensor product of single-qubit states. Leveraging this observation, we study the magic transition in this circuit in both one- and two-dimensional lattices using large-scale numerical simulations. Our results demonstrate the presence of a magic transition between two different phases with extensive magic scaling, separated by a critical point in which the mutual magic exhibits scaling behavior analogous to entanglement. We further show that these two distinct phases can be distinguished by topological magic. In a different regime, with a vanishing rate of non-Clifford measurements, we find that the magic saturates in both phases. Our work sheds light on the behavior of magic and its linear combinations in quantum circuits, employing genuine magic measures.
Developmental Dynamics of Intercalary Meristem and Pith Cavity in Rice Stems
Authors: Nagai Keisuke , Niimi Yoko , Ohsato Misaki , Ashikari Motoyuki
Published: December 2024

In rice, internode elongation is a critical aspect of plant development and agricultural productivity. Previous morphological and histochemical studies using [3H]thymidine have visualized the cell division zone (intercalary meristem) in internodes. However, it has remained unclear how the intercalary meristem forms during stem development. In addition, while a pith cavity forms in the central part of the rice stem, the spatiotemporal relationship between pith cavity formation and intercalary meristem development is not well understood. Therefore, we performed histological analysis of intercalary meristem and pith cavity development using C9285, a rice variety that shows internode elongation from the vegetative growth stage. We classified the developmental stages of the stem into four stages based on analysis of pith cavity formation using trypan blue staining and visualized dividing cells by Click-iT EdU imaging assay. In Stage 1, no pith cavity was formed. Vertical cell rows were observed between the upper end of the axillary bud attachment and the upper node, suggesting anticlinal divisions that lead to internode formation in the early stage of stem development. In Stage 2, the first pith cavity formed in the pith of the foot, which is the region of axillary bud attachment. Compared to cell division in the internode, that in the foot was significantly activated resulting in slight elongation from Stage 1 to Stage 2. In Stage 3, cell division in the foot ceased, while active cell division at the base of the internode led to significant vertical elongation. The second pith cavity formed due to cell death in the pith of the internode. In Stage 4, the two pith cavities connected to form a single large pith cavity. Although the intercalary meristem maintained cell division activity, the number of cell divisions decreased. Based on these results, we propose a model for stem development that involves two phases of elongation regulation: primary elongation involving slight elongation in the foot, and secondary elongation involving significant internode elongation due to the activation of cell division and cell elongation in the intercalary meristem. This is the first study to anatomically elucidate the spatiotemporal relationship between intercalary meristem development and pith cavity formation in rice stem development. It provides new insights for future research on rice stem development and studies of other grass species.
The Path to Relief from the Intertwined Effects of School Bullying and Loneliness: The Power of Social Connectedness and Parental Support
Authors: Liu Huaqiang , Lan Zhensong , Wang Qing , Huang Xuefang , Zhou Jianming
Published: December 2024

Background: School bullying is a widespread phenomenon affecting a significant proportion of adolescents worldwide, yet the relationship between school bullying and loneliness has received little attention. The aim is to understand the relationship between adolescents experiencing school bullying and loneliness, and to explore the role of social connectedness and parental support in this relationship.
Methods: This study used cluster sampling to select 1,277 students from grades 7 to 12 in four middle schools across two cities in Sichuan Province. Data were collected via questionnaires and analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics, chain mediation model tests, and moderation model tests.
Results: The results showed that: (1) Bullying was significantly positively correlated with adolescent loneliness (r = 0.55, P < 0.001); (2) Social connectednessplayed a mediating role between bullying and adolescent loneliness (effect size of 51.57%); (3) After controlling for gender, age, and household registration type, parental support moderated the relationship between bullying and loneliness among adolescents (β = -0.05, p < 0.01). Moreover, as the level of parental support increased, the positive predictive effect of bullying on loneliness weakened significantly, although this moderating effect was not significant among "non-left-behind children."
Conclusion: The study confirmed the relationship between school bullying and loneliness and revealed the internal logical relationship between social connectedness, parental support, loneliness, and school bullying, providing agreat significance for preventing the negative effects of school bullying on left-behind children.
Central Nervous System Disease and Outcome in Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Results from NOPHO-DBH AML2012 Trial
Authors: Arad-Cohen Nira , Cheuk Daniel , De Moerloose Barbara , Mavarro Jose , Hasle Henrik , Jahnukainen Kirsi , Juul-Dam Kristian , Kaspers Gertjan , Kovalova Zhanna , Jonsson Olafur , Lausen Birgitte , Munthe-Kaas Monica Cheng , Norén-Nyström Ulrika , Palle Josefine , Pasaulienė Ramunė , Pronk Cornelis , Saks Kadri , Tierens Anne , Zeller Bernward , Abrahamsson Jonas
Published: December 2024

Background: Central nervous system disease (CNS3) in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (pAML) is reported in 6% to 29% of cases. However, its impact on event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) remains uncertain. This study evaluates the effect of CNS involvement at diagnosis on relapse and survival in patients treated on the NOPHO-DBH AML2012 protocol.
Methods:
Data from 931 pediatric AML patients in the NOPHO-DBH AML2012 protocol were analyzed, comparing outcomes, relapse rates, and survival between those with and without CNS disease. CNS-directed therapy included intensified intrathecal chemotherapy without irradiation.
Results: Of 922 patients with available CNS status, 10.9% had CNS3 at diagnosis. CNS3 patients were younger (median age 3.5 vs. 8 years,P=0.001) with higher white blood cell counts (56.1x109/L vs 18.7x109/L,P<0.001) and higher frequency of other extramedullary disease (30.4% vs 11.3%,P<0.001) and inv(16)(P<0.001).
EFS5y was 71.5% for CNS-positive patients vs. 62.7% for CNS-negative (p=0.14), and OS5y was 81.4% vs. 79.3% (p=0.54). Patients with CNS disease had a lower cumulative incidence of relapse (15.6% vs 26.5%,P=0.023), and CNS relapse occurred in 0.9% and 0.7% of patients with and without CNS disease.
Conclusion: CNS disease at diagnosis in pAML does not adversely affect survival or treatment response.
Neurodevelopmental Disorder Due to a Frameshift Mutation in the GRIN2A Gene: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Xu Chen , Wang Man-Li , Ling Wei-Hao , Tang Ji-Hong
Published: December 2024

Background: The GRIN2A gene is known to harbor rare mutations that can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders with diverse phenotypic presentations. This report describes a previously unreported case of a rare condition that initially presented with ataxia, followed by speech impairments without seizures, and showed subsequent improvement following immunotherapy.
Case presentation: A 23-month-old male patient initially presented with ataxia. Despite the exclusion of autoimmune encephalitis, a definitive diagnosis remained undetermined. After undergoing immunotherapy, the patient experienced temporary symptom relief. However, he later developed speech impairment, drooling, and developmental regression, without seizures. Electroencephalogram (EEG) findings revealed abnormal patterns during sleep. Whole-genome sequencing identified a frameshift mutation in the GRIN2A gene (c.1717delG, p.Val573Phefs*16), which encodes a subunit of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, essential for excitatory neurotransmission in the central nervous system. Following treatment with corticosteroids and immunoglobulin, the patient showed improvements in ataxic gait, cessation of drooling, and a significant reduction in abnormal EEG discharges.
Conclusions: This report broadens the phenotypic spectrum associated with GRIN2A mutations and proposes a promising treatment strategy.
Smart Conservation: Deep Learning-Driven Pathology Detection and Analysis in Historic Masonry Buildings of Suzhou
Authors: Chen Xi , He Jiabao , Wang Shiruo
Published: December 2024

Suzhou's modern masonry buildings hold substantial historical significance, yet they face escalating risks of deterioration due to regional climate fluctuations and anthropogenic influences. Prompt detection of these issues is essential for effective conservation and restoration. This paper addresses this need by integrating UAV technology with deep learning models to enhance the detection of building pathologies, focusing on five categories: material loss (ML), discoloration and deposits (DD), cracks (CR), surface spalling (SS), and biological invasion (BI). The method integrated 3D scanning and oblique photogrammetry to enable automated facade analysis, effectively addressing the limitations of manual inspection. As a case study, the historical site of Soochow Hospital was examined to demonstrate the practical application of quantifying pathology data. 1,200 facade images were collected, including 781 used for pathology detection. The model’s detection accuracies for each pathology type were as follows: biological invasion (75.6%), discoloration and deposits (43.1%), cracks (46.5%), and surface spalling (48.5%), demonstrating the model's capability to meet basic conservation requirements. This approach ultimately provides valuable technical support for the preservation of Suzhou's masonry buildings and offers new insights into the conservation of modern masonry heritage.
Association between menopause, postmenopausal hormone therapy and peptic ulcer disease in Taiwanese population
Authors: Chen Kuan-Chih , Kuo Chia-Yu , Tsai Wan-Ling , Wu Ying-Jhen , Geng Jiun-Hung , Kuo Chao-Hung , Chen Szu-Chia
Published: December 2024

Menopause is associated with various health conditions such as osteoporosis, obesity, cardiovascular and psychological disorders. However, limited information is available on the relationship between perimenopause and hormone replacement therapy with the occurrence of digestive ulcers. Therefore, we conducted this population-based study of over 17,000 participants in the Taiwan Biobank to examine the association between menopause and peptic ulcer disease (PUD). In addition, we also examined associations between the types of menopause and postmenopausal hormone therapy with PUD. Menopausal status, hormone replacement therapy during menopause, and the presence of PUD were determined using self-reported questionnaires. The participants were grouped according to whether or not they had entered menopause. The participants were further categorized based on the cause of menopause: natural or surgical. Binary logistic regression was utilized for correlation analysis. Of the 17,460 individuals enrolled for analysis, 9620 (55%) were classified into the postmenopausal group and 7840 (45%) into the premenopausal group. After adjusting for various factors, the postmenopausal group had a 1.19 times higher risk of developing PUD compared to the premenopausal group (odds ratio [OR]: 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03 to 1.38, p = 0.022). Moreover, surgical menopause was significantly associated with PUD (OR, 1.38; 95% CI, 1.16 to 1.63; p < 0.001), but natural menopause was not (OR, 1.128; 95% CI, 0.96 to 1.30; p = 0.153). In addition, the women with natural menopause who received postmenopausal hormone therapy had a significantly higher prevalence of PUD than those who did not (OR, 1.37; 95% CI, 1.11 to 1.70; p = 0.004). However, no significant association was found between postmenopausal hormone therapy and PUD among the women with surgical menopause (p = 0.622). Menopause was significantly associated with PUD. Furthermore, surgical menopause (vs. pre-menopause) was associated with a 1.38 times higher risk of PUD, and postmenopausal hormone therapy in women with natural menopause was associated with a 1.37 times higher risk of PUD. Further research is warranted to identify the mechanisms and potential interventions to reduce susceptibility to digestive ulcers in menopausal women.
Charlotte's Crime Landscape: Analyzing the Location of Criminal Activity; A Comprehensive Study of Crime Trends Over Six Years (2017-2023)
Authors: Baltimore Adam
Published: December 2024

This study analyzes crime data from 2017 to 2023 within the City of Charlotte to identify areas with higher crime rates and understand the spatial distribution of crime. Using a variety of analytic tools, including ArcGIS, crime incidents were geolocated and analyzed to reveal patterns. The findings indicate that 45.73% of all crimes and 56.20% of violent crimes occurred within private residences, underscoring the significant role residential areas play in the overall crime rate. Additionally, the uptown area of Charlotte emerged as a notable hotspot for both overall and violent crime, supported by spatial analysis and standard distance measures. Public locations such as streets and commercial areas also showed high crime rates, suggesting targeted strategies for public safety improvements. The study proposes a range of solutions, including enhanced security measures in residential areas, increased law enforcement presence in identified hotspots, and urban environment enhancements to deter crime. These findings offer valuable insights for city officials, law enforcement, and community stakeholders to develop more effective crime prevention strategies.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 infection in dairy cows confers protective immunity against reinfection
Authors: Zhou Yan , Facciuolo Antonio , Aubrey Lauren , Barron-Castillo Ulises , Berube Nathalie , Norleen Carla , McCreary Shannon , Huang Yanyun , Pessoa Natalia , Jacome Leslie Macas , Mubareka Samira , McGeer Allison , Berhane Yohannes , Gerdts Volker , Kessel Andrew Van , Warner Bryce
Published: December 2024

An unprecedented spillover of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b to dairy cows in March 2024 has affected over 700 US dairy herds in addition to spillback to commercial poultry and transmission to agricultural workers. HPAI H5N1 incursion into cows causes severe mastitis and significant milk production losses. To better understand disease pathogenesis and natural immunity in lactating cows we inoculated the hindquarters of the udder with HPAI H5N1 genotype B3.13 via the teat canal to mimic intra-mammary route of infection. Inoculated cows displayed clinical responses consistent with that observed in affected US dairy herds including generalized decrease in milk yield and localized viral shedding and mastitis in the hindquarters. Following resolution of infection at 31 days post-inoculation, H5N1 virus was inoculated into the unaffected forequarters of the same cows. The secondary inoculation did not result in the clinical manifestations seen upon initial viral challenge. This demonstrated that primary infection of the hindquarters induced natural immunity that conferred complete protection from both mastitis and virus replication and shedding in the forequarters of the udder. This study provides the first experimental report on reinfection demonstrating intra-mammary inoculation can generate H5N1 immunity to completely protect the cow mammary gland.
Alborihi Technique: A Bedside Approach for Managing Brain Abscess and Subdural Hematoma.
Authors: Alborihi Soliman Noman Abdullah
Published: December 2024

pediatric patients. The Alborihi technique is a novel, bedside, percutaneous approach for managing subdural hematomas and brain abscesses. In two cases—one involving a subacute subdural hematoma and the other a brain abscess—the Alborihi technique was successfully implemented using a percutaneous trans-pterional approach, demonstrating the safety of this technique in the pediatric population.
Conclusion
The Alborihi technique is a novel, bedside, percutaneous method for managing liquid masses in the intracranial space. It can be performed quickly, efficiently, and with minimal equipment support, particularly for patients with interosseous patent or bone defects.