bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Lorenzut Simone , Negro Ilaria Del , Pauletto Giada , Verriello Lorenzo , Spadea Leopoldo , Salati Carlo , Musa Mutali , Gagliano Caterina , Zeppieri Marco
Published: January 2025

The complicated neurological syndrome known as multiple sclerosis (MS) is typified by demyelination, inflammation, and neurodegeneration in the central nervous system (CNS). Managing this crippling illness requires an understanding of the complex interactions between neurophysiological systems, diagnostic techniques, and therapeutic methods. A complex series of processes, including immunological dysregulation, inflammation, and neurodegeneration, are involved in the pathogenesis of MS. Gene predisposition, autoreactive T cells, B cells, and cytokines are essential participants in the development of the disease. Demyelination interferes with the ability of the CNS to transmit signals, which can cause a variety of neurological symptoms, including impaired motor function, sensory deficiencies, and cognitive decline. Developing tailored therapeutics requires understanding the underlying processes guiding the course of the disease. Neuroimaging, laboratory testing, and clinical examination are all necessary for an accurate MS diagnosis. Evoked potentials and cerebrospinal fluid studies assist in verifying the diagnosis, but magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is essential for identifying distinctive lesions in the CNS. Novel biomarkers have the potential to increase diagnostic precision and forecast prognosis. The goals of MS treatment options are to control symptoms, lower disease activity, and enhance quality of life. To stop relapses and reduce the course of the disease, disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) target several components of the immune response. DMTs that are now on the market include interferons, glatiramer acetate, monoclonal antibodies, and oral immunomodulators; each has a unique mode of action and safety profile. Symptomatic treatments improve patients' general well-being by addressing specific symptoms, including pain, sphincter disorders, fatigue, and spasticity. Novel treatment targets, neuroprotective tactics, and personalized medicine techniques will be the main focus of MS research in the future. Improving long-term outcomes for MS patients and optimizing disease treatment may be possible by utilizing immunology, genetics, and neuroimaging developments. This study concludes by highlighting the complexity of multiple MS, including its changing therapeutic landscape, diagnostic problems, and neurophysiological foundations. A thorough grasp of these elements is essential to improving our capacity to identify, manage, and eventually overcome this intricate neurological condition.
Remimazolam Combined with Andrographolide Improve Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction in Rats after Cardiopulmonary Bypass through the AMPK/SIRT1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chen Chong , Lan Lixia , Xu Kai
Published: January 2025

Introduction: The effects of remimazolam (Re) in combination with andrographolide (AP) on learning, memory, and motor abilities in rats following cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery were studied. Methods: We hypothesized that the combination of Re and AP could improve postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in rats after CPB by modulating nervous system inflammation. Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris Water Maze test, and the concentrations of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in serum were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Apoptosis was evaluated using western blotting and the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining assay. Results: The results indicated that both Re and AP independently improved cognitive function in rats after CPB and inhibited the secretion of inflammatory factors and apoptosis in hippocampal tissues. Combined administration of Re and AP enhanced the alleviation of POCD compared with monotherapy. The adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase/silent information regulator of transcription 1 (AMPK/SIRT1) signaling pathway was activated by the combination of Re and AP. Conclusions: Collectively, the combination of Re and AP treatment significantly improves POCD in rats after CPB through activation of the AMPK/SIRT1 signaling pathway.
Use of the Adaptive Behaviour Dementia Questionnaire in a Down Syndrome Specialty Clinic
Authors: Oreskovic Nicolas M. , Harisinghani Ayesha , Bregman Caroline , Cottrell Clorinda , Pulsifer Margaret , Skotko Brian G. , Torres Amy , Spognardi Alexa Gozdiff , Santoro Stephanie L.
Published: January 2025

Objective: To study the use of a dementia screening tool in our clinic cohort of adults with Down syndrome. Study Design: A retrospective chart review of patients with Down syndrome was conducted to follow the use of the Adaptive Behaviour Dementia Questionnaire (ABDQ) in a dementia screening protocol. The ABDQ results for patients aged 40 years and older at a Down syndrome specialty clinic program were assessed. Based on caregiver feedback, an ABDQ with modified instructions was piloted and the impact assessed. Results: As part of our clinic’s initiative to implement a new clinical protocol to screen for dementia, the ABDQ was completed by 47 caregivers of adults with Down syndrome, aged 39 years and above, from December, 2021 to April, 2023. Based on clinical impressions at the same timepoint, the ABDQ had a sensitivity of 0%, specificity of 97.4%, positive predictive value of 0%, and negative predictive value of 80.4%. Nine patients were deemed to have mild cognitive impairment and/or dementia by clinical impressions, but they did not identify as positive on the ABDQ. The Down syndrome clinic team modified the ABDQ in an effort to provide clearer language and increased sensitivity. The modified ABDQ showed a sensitivity of 0%, specificity of 93.8%, positive predictive value of 0% and negative predictive value of 75%. Conclusion: Neither the original ABDQ nor a modified version adequately identified patients with cognitive impairment and/or dementia within the Down syndrome clinical program. The inability to replicate findings from the initial ABDQ validation may be due to differences in setting and format.
Behavior Changes in Quinpirole Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Rats Treated with 6-Hydroxydopamine and the Corresponding Dopaminergic Compulsive Loop Mechanism
Authors: Zheng Haowen , He Rui , Ming Yang , He Haiping , Wang Wei , Chen Ligang , Gong Feilong
Published: January 2025

Background: Recent studies suggest that the anterior limb of the internal capsule may be an area of convergence for multiple compulsion loops. In this study, the role of different dopaminergic compulsion loops in the mechanism of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) was investigated by selectively damaging dopaminergic neurons or fibers in the corresponding targets with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) and depicting the anatomical map of various compulsion loops located in the anterior limb of the internal capsule. Methods: A total of 52 male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were exposed to either saline (1 mL/kg, NS group, n = 6) or quinpirole (QNP, dopamine D2-agonist, 0.5 mg/kg, n = 46) twice weekly for 5 weeks. After each injection, the rats were placed on an open field to analyze aspects of their behaviour, including the number of home base visits (NOH), average time between each home base visit (ATBO), and total distance travelled (TDM). After model setup, 46 QNP rats were divided randomly into five groups: 6-OHDA anterior limb of internal capsule (AC) stereotactic injection group (QNP+AC group, n = 10), 6-OHDA mediodorsal thalamic nucleus (MD) stereotactic injection group (QNP+MD group, n = 10), 6-OHDA nucleus accumbens (NAC) stereotactic injection group (QNP+NAC group, n = 10), saline stereotactic injection group (QNP+NS-S group, n = 10), and non-surgical group (QNP+Non-S group, n = 6). In the NS group, rats simultaneously received a 6-OHDA stereotactic injection (NS+6-OHDA-S group, n = 6: AC2, MD2, NAC2). All QNP-treated rats were then continued to be given QNP twice a week for 4 weeks, and their behaviour was observed after each infusion. After 4 weeks, immunofluorescence staining was used to monitor the distribution of dopamine neurons and nerve fibers in different areas of the intervention nerve loops, and quantitative analysis was performed. Results: Compulsive behaviour declined gradually in the QNP+AC and QNP+NAC groups 3 and 4 weeks after surgery, with the QNP+AC group decreasing more rapidly. The QNP+MD group had decreased by 3 weeks after surgery but increased to almost the same level as pre-surgery at 4 weeks post-surgery. Postoperative fluorescence staining and quantitative analysis suggested the number of dopamine (DA) neurons or nerve fibers in the corresponding target area of the 6-OHDA injection were significantly reduced compared with the QNP+Non-S group. Conclusions: 6-OHDA selectively damages the targets of dopaminergic neurons or nerve fibers within the OCD loop, which somewhat alleviates compulsive behaviours. The results suggest that the AC might be the best target for therapeutic interventions for OCD.
Association of Serum Gamma-Glutamyltransferase with In-hospital Heart Failure in Patients with ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Hou An-Cheng , Hou Jian-Tong , Zhou Wei-Ning , Wei Yan-Jin , Ou Zhi-Hong , Liu Cun-Fei
Published: January 2025

Background: To explore the association between gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) and in-hospital heart failure (HF) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: A total of 412 patients diagnosed with STEMI and treated with primary PCI were included in our study. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between GGT and the risk of in-hospital HF in STEMI patients. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the accuracy of GGT in predicting in-hospital HF. Results: The incidence of HF after STEMI increased significantly with increasing GGT tertiles (the first, second, and third tertile groups were 7.97%, 14.49%, and 18.38%, respectively; p = 0.039). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the risk of HF in the second and third GGT tertile groups was 2.51 times greater (95% CI, 1.06–5.96) and 2.77 times greater (95% CI, 1.13–6.81), respectively, than that in the first GGT tertile group. Each 1-unit increase in the lnGGT level was related to a 1.88-fold increased risk of HF (odds ratio, OR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.19–2.96; p = 0.007). Restricted cubic splines suggested a linear relationship between GGT and in-hospital HF (p for nonlinearity = 0.158). The area under the curve was 0.607 (95% CI, 0.558–0.654; p = 0.007) when GGT was used to predict in-hospital HF, with a sensitivity of 57.14% and a specificity of 64.04%. Moreover, the incidence of HF significantly increased in-hospital death risk (OR, 7.75; 95% CI, 1.87–32.12; p = 0.005). Conclusions: GGT is positively associated with in-hospital HF and is an independent risk factor for in-hospital HF in STEMI patients.
The Effect of Coronary Artery Disease on the Prognosis of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Multi-Center Cohort Study
Authors: Hou Guoqing , Liao Qian , Ma Huihui , Shu Yan , Zeng Shengzhi , Zhou Yongmei , Luo Liangjun , Zhao Gang , He Tao , Liu Mingjiang , Tao Jianhong , Hua Wei , Li Xiaoping
Published: January 2025

Background: There is a shortage of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) with concurrent coronary artery disease (CAD), and the influence of CAD on the prognosis of patients with HCM is uncertain. This real-world cohort study was conducted to evaluate the prognosis of patients with patients with CAD. Methods: This cohort study of patients with HCM was conducted from May 2003 to September 2021. The total number of patients enrolled was 2167, and the mean follow-up period was 6.4 years (interquartile range 2.8–9.5 years). Sudden cardiac death (SCD), cardiovascular death, and all-cause mortality were assessed as outcomes. Using logistic regression, nine indicators were selected for 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM). Additionally, Kaplan–Meier survival curves and Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were used to assess the impact of CAD on the prognosis of patients with HCM. Results: During an average of 6.4 years of follow-up, of the 2167 patients enrolled, 446 (20.6%) died. The patients were classified into two groups: CAD (n = 480) and non-CAD (n = 1,687). After imputation of missing values using the mean and 1:1 propensity score matching, there was no difference in SCD (log-rank χ2 = 0.4, p = 0.540), cardiovascular death (log-rank χ2 = 0.1, p = 0.995) and all-cause mortality (log-rank χ2 = 0.1, p = 0.776) between the CAD and non-CAD groups. After imputation of missing values using the median and 1:1 propensity score matching, patients with and without CAD were not significantly different in terms of SCD (log-rank χ2 = 0.1, p = 0.948), cardiovascular death (log-rank χ2 = 0.1, p = 0.811), and all-cause mortality (log-rank χ2 = 0.5, p = 0.499). In the Cox analysis, CAD was not a significant independent predictor of SCD, cardiovascular death, or all-cause mortality in patients with HCM. Conclusions: In this study, it was observed that there was no statistically significant disparity in mortality rates between patients diagnosed with HCM who concurrently had CAD and those who did not exhibit CAD. This finding underscores the notion that the presence of CAD did not exert a notable influence on the incidence of SCD, cardiovascular death, or all-cause mortality, thereby emphasizing the complexity and multifaceted nature of mortality risk factors in HCM patients.
Association of Immune Nutrition Indices with the Risk of All-Cause Mortality and Cardiovascular Mortality in Patients with Heart Failure in the NHANES (1999–2018)
Authors: Zhang Feifei , Xie Yuetao , Liu Litian , Liu Huiliang , Feng Ohua , Li Yingxiao , Dang Yi
Published: January 2025

Background: Heart failure (HF) remains a global challenge with disappointing long-term outcomes. Malnutrition is prevalent in patients with HF and disrupts the equilibrium of immune and inflammatory responses, resulting in further deterioration of the HF. Novel indicators emerge as immune nutrition indices, including the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score, and cholesterol-modified prognostic nutritional index (CPNI). This study examines the correlation between immune nutrition indices and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with HF. Methods: The data source for this study was the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). A total of 1232 participants with HF were included. Weighted Cox proportional hazards models were employed to assess the independent association of different immune nutrition indices with mortality risk, alongside subgroup analyses and Kaplan–Meier survival curves. Restricted cubic spline analysis was utilized to clarify the detailed association between immune nutrition indices and hazard ratio (HR). A time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was conducted to assess the predictive ability. Results: After full adjustments, PNI is independently related to all-cause mortality (HR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.92–0.97) and cardiovascular mortality (HR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.90–0.99). CPNI, CONUT, and NLR also showed an independent association with the prognosis of HF. Time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that PNI exhibited the highest predictive power for mortality among the CPNI, CONUT, and NLR indexes. Conclusions: Our study revealed that immune nutrition indicators, including CPNI, could predict all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in the HF population. Compared with other indicators, PNI is the most effective predictor.
Cardiovascular Disease and Other Competing Causes of Death in Older Kidney Cancer Patients
Authors: Liang Yinglan , Zeng Liangjia , Zhou Ruoyun , Feng Manting , Liu Linglong , Chen Kexin , Huang Jinqi , Liang Haowen , He Baixin , Zhang Binghua , Ying Yican , Chen Yuerong , Guan Tianwang , Yi Min
Published: January 2025

Background: To study the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and other competing causes of death in older kidney cancer patients. Methods: Data on older patients (aged 65 and above) diagnosed with kidney cancer between 1975 and 2018 were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. We delved into the distribution of CVD and other competing causes of death across the entire cohort and in various patient subgroups. The competing risk analysis was used to produce cumulative mortality curves based on cumulative mortality for the primary outcomes by follow-up period. Utilizing the standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) and absolute excess risks (AERs), we contrasted the risk of CVD and other competing causes of death in older kidney cancer patients to that observed in the general population. Results: The analysis included 29,349 older kidney cancer patients, of which included 4563 CVD deaths. As survival time extended, the proportion of non-cancer deaths increased in older kidney cancer patients, with CVD accounting for the largest share of non-cancer deaths. At 10–15 years after diagnosis, cumulative non-cancer mortality exceeded primary kidney cancer as the predominant cause of death, and cumulative CVD mortality is higher among all non-cancer causes. Older kidney cancer patients exhibited a greater risk of CVD and other non-cancer deaths than their counterparts in the general older population did (SMR: 1.38–2.81; AER: 1.1–143.69). Conclusions: As survival time increases, the risk of non-cancer death in older kidney cancer patients gradually surpassed that of primary cancer, and CVD death accounted for the majority of non-cancer deaths. Among older kidney cancer patients, the risk of CVD mortality was higher than in the general population. Managing non-cancer deaths, especially CVD deaths, should be a focus in the care of older kidney cancer patients.
Recent Developments in Ventricular Assist Device Therapy
Authors: Moctezuma-Ramirez Angel , Mohammed Haseeb , Hughes Austin , Elgalad Abdelmotagaly
Published: January 2025

The evolution of left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) from large, pulsatile systems to compact, continuous-flow pumps has significantly improved implantation outcomes and patient mobility. Minimally invasive surgical techniques have emerged that offer reduced morbidity and enhanced recovery for LVAD recipients. Innovations in wireless power transfer technologies aim to mitigate driveline-related complications, enhancing patient safety and quality of life. Pediatric ventricular assist devices (VADs) remain a critical unmet need; challenges in developing pediatric VADs include device sizing and managing congenital heart disease. Advances in LVAD technology adapted for use in right ventricular assist devices (RVADs) make possible the effective management of right ventricular failure in patients with acute cardiac conditions or congenital heart defects. To address disparities in mechanical circulatory support (MCS) access, cost-effective VAD designs have been developed internationally. The Vitalmex device from Mexico City combines pulsatile-flow technology with a paracorporeal design, utilizing cost-effective materials like silicone-elastic and titanium, and features a reusable pump housing to minimize manufacturing and operational costs. Romanian researchers have used advanced mathematical modeling and three-dimensional (3D) printing to produce a rim-driven, hubless axial-flow pump, achieving efficient blood flow with a compact design that includes a wireless power supply to reduce infection risk. In conclusion, MCS continues to advance with technological innovation and global collaboration. Ongoing efforts are essential to optimize outcomes, expand indications, and improve access to life-saving therapies worldwide.
Interaction between 24 h Urinary Free Cortisol and Obesity in Hypertension-Mediated Organ Damage in Patients with Untreated Hypertension
Authors: Cao Gao-Zhen , Huang Jia-Yi , Lin Qing-Shan , Chen Cong , Wu Min , Wang Run , Ng Ming-Yen , Yiu Kai-Hang , Xiu Jian-Cheng
Published: January 2025

Background: Given the close relationship between excessive cortisol secretion and obesity, as well as their intimate associations with cardiometabolic sequelae, this study aimed to evaluate whether elevated cortisol levels and obesity are independently and potentially interactively related to hypertension-mediated organ damage (HMOD) in patients with untreated hypertension. Methods: A total of 936 untreated hypertensive patients were recruited. Body mass index (BMI), 24-hour urinary free cortisol (24 h UFC), and HMOD indicators, including left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), and albuminuria, were assessed. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to evaluate the associations of HMOD indicators with 24 h UFC and obesity. Generalized linear models were used to test for the interaction effects of obesity in the associations between log 24 h UFC levels and HMOD indicators. Results: Compared to non-obese patients, those who were obese had a greater left ventricular mass index (LVMI), greater CIMT, a higher level of 24-hour urinary albumin (24 h UALB) and more frequent albuminuria (all p < 0.05). In the obese group, elevated 24 h UFC was significantly associated with LVH (odds ratio (OR) = 2.53; 95% CI: 1.02–6.31, p = 0.044) and albuminuria (OR = 3.13; 95% CI: 1.31–7.43, p = 0.01), after multivariate adjusting. There was a significant interactive effect of obesity on the association between 24 h UFC and LVH and albuminuria (all p for interaction <0.05). A significant correlation was observed between 24 h UFC and LVMI in obese and non-obese patients. Conversely, the correlations of 24 h UFC and log 24 h UALB were found only in obese patients but not in non-obese patients. Conclusions: Elevated 24 h UFC levels were associated with higher severity of HMOD, including more frequent LVH, albuminuria, and greater CIMT. Additionally, obesity modified the effects of 24 h UFC on both LVH and albuminuria.
Outcomes in Catheter Ablation of Sustained Ventricular Tachycardia in Myocarditis Compared with Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Su Sheng , Li Le , Peng Xi , Zhou Likun , Zhang Zhuxin , Xiong Yulong , Zhang Zhenhao , Xu Mengtong , Yao Yan
Published: January 2025

Background: The substrates for arrhythmias in myocarditis and ischemic heart disease (IHD) are different, but it is yet to be determined whether there is a difference in outcomes following catheter ablation (CA) for ventricular tachycardia (VT) associated with these two conditions. This study aimed to compare outcomes after CA of VT in patients with myocarditis versus those with IHD. Methods: Patients undergoing CA for sustained VT confirmed by endomyocardial biopsy as myocarditis, and patients with IHD experiencing sustained VT undergoing CA were retrospectively enrolled from February 2017 to March 2023. Initially, an endocardial approach was employed, reserving epicardial ablation procedures for non-responders. The primary endpoint was VT recurrence during follow up. All-cause mortality, repeat CA for VT and implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation served as secondary endpoints. Kaplan-Meier curves compared outcomes between patient groups. Results: This study included 109 patients with IHD and 20 patients with myocarditis who underwent CA for sustained VT, from February 2017 to March 2023. Compared with IHD patients, myocarditis patients had a statistically significant lower complete short-term success rate of CA (60.0% vs. 85.3%, p = 0.013). During a follow-up period of 37 ± 21 months, 8 (40.0%) myocarditis patients experienced VT recurrence compared to 57 (52.3%) IHD patients, with no statistically significant difference between the two groups. During follow-up, 2 (10.0%) myocarditis patients died and 2 (10.0%) underwent repeat CA for VT recurrence, while 9 (8.3%) IHD patients died, 14 (12.8%) underwent a second CA for VT recurrence, and 8 (7.3%) received an ICD implantation. Additionally, there were no notable variations between the two groups regarding all-cause mortality, repeat CA for VT and ICD implantation. Conclusions: It was demonstrated that the efficacy of CA in sustained VT in myocarditis patients was similar to that in IHD. For myocarditis patients with VT, CA might be equally effective.
Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction: Insights on Prognosis and Future Perspectives
Authors: Gurgoglione Filippo Luca , Benatti Giorgio , Denegri Andrea , Donelli Davide , Covani Marco , De Gregorio Mattia , Dallaglio Gabriella , Navacchi Rebecca , Niccoli Giampaolo
Published: January 2025

Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) comprises a wide spectrum of structural and/or functional abnormalities of coronary microcirculation that can lead to myocardial ischemia. Emerging evidence has indicated that CMD is a relevant cause of morbidity and mortality and is associated with a high risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction as well as poor quality of life. This review aims to elucidate briefly the pathogenesis and diagnostic modalities of CMD and to shed light on contemporary evidence on the prognostic impact of CMD. Finally, we will provide an overview of novel emerging therapeutic strategies for CMD.
Integrating the GRACE Score with the Ceramide Risk Score Enhances the Predictive Accuracy of Major Adverse Cardiac Events in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Liu Chengzhe , Yu Fu , Zhang Zizhuo , Wang Jiale , Shi Xiaoyu , Xu Tianyou , Deng Qiang , Zhou Liping , Sang Wanyue , Jiang Hong , Yu Lilei
Published: January 2025

Background: Ceramide, a key molecule in sphingolipid metabolism, is recognized as a standalone predictor of long-term major adverse cardiac events (MACE). We explore if integrating the global registry of acute coronary events (GRACE) score with the ceramide risk score (ceramide test 1, CERT1) improves MACE prediction in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: This cohort study included 210 participants with ACS undergoing PCI. MACE was defined as the recurrence of non-fatal acute myocardial infarction, repeat coronary revascularization procedures (PCI or coronary artery bypass grafting, CABG), or death excluding the initial event qualifying the patient for the study. The cumulative incidence of MACE was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Both univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses identified MACE predictors. The predictive accuracy of combining the GRACE score with the CERT1 score was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), integrated discrimination improvement (IDI), and net reclassification improvement (NRI). Results: During the 12-month follow-up period, 35 of the 210 participants experienced a MACE. The Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a significant variation in MACE incidence stratified by the CERT1 score (χ2 = 21.344, p < 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified low-density lipoprotein (p = 0.002), quantitative flow ratio (p = 0.013), the CERT1 score (p = 0.005), and the GRACE score (p = 0.007) as independent predictors for MACE. Integrating the GRACE score with the CERT1 score improved prediction accuracy, raising the AUC from 0.733 to 0.834. This adjustment provided a more precise risk reclassification and discrimination between patients likely and unlikely to experience MACE (NRI: 0.526, p = 0.004; IDI: 0.120, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The CERT1 score independently predicts long-term MACE for individuals diagnosed with ACS undergoing PCI. Including the CERT1 score significantly enhances the GRACE score's capacity to risk-stratify these patients. Clinical Trial Registration: Registration number: ChiCTR2300068491 (https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=180370).
Statins—Their Effect on Lipoprotein(a) Levels
Authors: Granat Marcin Mateusz
Published: January 2025

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) serum concentration plays a crucial role as a risk factor in cardiovascular diseases and is gaining more and more attention. Patients with elevated lipoprotein(a) levels are often prescribed statins as they also have high concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Statins are drugs that successfully decrease LDL-C, but their effectiveness in Lp(a) levels reduction is uncertain. The aim of this study was to evaluate if statin therapy can affect Lp(a) concentration. A literature search on databases like PubMed, Oxford Academic, ScienceDirect, Embase, The Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Springer Link was conducted from 1 May to 10 August 2024 with the aim of finding studies concerning the effect of statins on Lp(a) levels. Only randomised control studies and studies with a placebo/comparator arm were included. For calculations, SPSS Statistics software version 29 was used. The risk of bias for this study was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised trials. Overall, 43 studies (13,264 participants in study arms and 11,676 in control arms) were included in the analysis. The mean difference of absolute change in Lp(a) concentration for all 43 studies equaled 0.22 mg/dL and was not clinically significant. Egger's regression-based test resulted in no risk of bias in this study (p = 0.404). In conclusion, statin therapy does not significantly affect Lp(a) levels. Results of this work suggest that people with high Lp(a) levels will not change their Lp(a)-associated cardiovascular (CV) risk by statin administration.
The knowledge architecture for learning progression: main framework
Authors: Zhong WANG
Published: January 2025

This article constructs the main framework of "learning progression“ (LP) from five perspectives: origin, elements, development mode, validity, and purpose. These frameworks involve disciplines such as mathematics and science, and are not limited to any particular discipline.
Speech and language rehabilitation: The potential role of immersive VR interventions
Authors: Stark Brielle C
Published: January 2025

PurposeSpeech and communication involve intricate cognitive-linguistic functions that can be impaired by neurogenic disorders stemming from conditions such as stroke, brain injury, and Parkinson’s disease. This viewpoint explores the viability and challenges of integrating immersive virtual reality (iVR) as a tool to enhance speech and language rehabilitation.MethodThis viewpoint utilizes a non-systematic, thorough review of interdisciplinary research to provide readers with a holistic interpretation of the relevant potential and challenges for iVR’s use in rehabilitation communication of adults with neurogenic communication disorders in both research and clinical settings. ResultsImmersive VR can foster engaging, inclusive, accessible, customizable, immersive platforms for enhancing communication outcomes. Early evidence suggests user experience is positive. Barriers such as accessibility, randomized and controlled studies examining efficacy, technological constraints, and ethical dilemmas require continued attention.ConclusionImmersive VR shows potential as an innovative tool for speech-language rehabilitation, offering adaptable and interactive therapy options. While initial studies indicate positive outcomes, further investigation is necessary to confirm long-term benefits, refine implementation methods, and tackle ethical challenges. Collaboration among healthcare professionals, researchers, and technologists will be key to ensuring widespread and equitable adoption, ultimately improving communication abilities in individuals with neurogenic disorders.
Construction of a Small-Scale Vacuum Generation System and Using It as an Educational Device to Demonstrate Features of the Vacuum
Authors: Marzouk Osama , Jul Walid Ali Marjan Haje Rhaim , Al Jabri Amjad Masoud Khalfan , Al-ghaithi Hamed Aamir Mohammed Aamir
Published: January 2025

We developed a vacuum generation system composed of a reciprocating compressor (3 tons of refrigeration) with an inverted-function that is ready to be hooked flexibly to a gas-tight container to create an evacuated enclosed atmosphere, without strict limitation of the size of that container. The evacuated container (or vacuum chamber) can serve in different purposes such as educational demonstration of the vacuum properties, extraction of perfumes from herbal resources, and preserving food. We tested the device and found it can reach a vacuum level of 26 inches of mercury in an environment with an atmospheric pressure of 28.5 inches of mercury. We compared the performance of our vacuum device to a rotary-vane vacuum pump of ¼ horsepowers and found that the vacuum pump reaches a set test vacuum level of 25 inches of mercury before the compressor. We then demonstrated experimentally some features of the vacuum using the inverted compressor or the vane vacuum pump. These experiments serve some topics in physics for school students as well as two core subjects of mechanical engineering, namely fluid mechanics and thermodynamics.
“It depends on the choices that are made now.” Parental perspectives on the use of automated methods in early childhood developmental checks.
Authors: Le Courtois Soizic , Barnes Matthew , Gibson Jenny Louise
Published: January 2025

Automated methodologies and artificial intelligence (AI) raise new opportunities to support assessment of young children’s development. Little is known about parents’ views on such technologies, which could have implications for development and adoption of innovations in this area. In this study, we use an acceptability framework to explore in what contexts and under what conditions, automated, AI-based assessment of early child development might be accepted by parents.Eighty-one online survey responses were gathered from parents of children under 5 years of age, living in England. Analysis was conducted via a combination of descriptive and thematic analyses. We found that parents showed a mixture of worry and optimism about AI-based assessment, as well as a substantial number who were ambivalent or uncertain of their views. We discuss findings in relation to acceptability considerations for wide-spread innovation and implementation of automated analyses in early childhood services.
General deficits of both linguistic and non-linguistic visual statistical learning in Chinese children with developmental dyslexia
Authors: Wenchun Li , Jin Haiyang , Ji Yuzhu
Published: January 2025

Purpose: Statistical learning is crucial to language acquisition. Impairments in statistical learning likely lead to reading difficulties in individuals with developmental dyslexia (DD), as supported by recent advances. However, whether the statistical learning deficits in individuals with DD are specific to the linguistic domain remains elusive. We examined the domain specificity of statistical learning deficits among Chinese children with DD. Method: Twenty-four Chinese children with DD (11 females) and 24 age-matched controls (12 females) participated in this study. All children were third-grade and native Mandarin speakers. We used the triplet-learning paradigm with a familiarization phase (online learning) and a test phase (offline learning) to examine the visual statistical learning (VSL) of both linguistic and non-linguistic regularities. Results: Children with DD demonstrated significantly slower online learning speed and lower offline learning accuracy compared to controls in the linguistic VSL task. Similar results were observed in the non-linguistic VSL task, where children with DD also performed worse than the control with reduced offline learning accuracy. Critically, linguistic VSL explained unique variances in word reading abilities, even after controlling the effects of reading-related skills, such as phonological awareness, morphological awareness, and working memory. Conclusion: These findings together suggest that VSL deficits in Chinese children with DD are domain-general, and statistical learning plays a significant role in reading.
Parent-Child Conversations about Inequality: Perpetuating or Disrupting an Inequitable Status Quo
Authors: McLean Kate C. , Raihl Lily Froese , LaFever Beezy , Park Alex , Williams Quinn , Gonzalez Antonya M
Published: January 2025

Recent calls have urged developmental scientists to consider how basic developmental processes are at play in upholding or disrupting systemic and structural inequality in the United States. The present study examined the intergenerational transmission of ideologies used to discuss systemic and structural inequality, and how ideologies that deny or explain inequality can be perpetuated or disrupted through developmental processes, in this case parent-child conversations about race and wealth inequality. Participant dyads (n = 16), consisting of primarily white and middle-class parents and their middle-school-aged child responded to individual surveys that included data on race and wealth inequality, followed by a conversation about the data, and then a “playback interview” to discuss the conversation with a research assistant. Using a qualitative thematic content analysis, we examined how interactions either reinforced ideologies that upheld an inequitable status quo (e.g., color-evasive) or disrupted such ideologies (e.g., resisting racial stereotypes). Results describe the ways that parents and children can perpetuate or disrupt an inequitable status quo, in both direct and indirect ways, how lived experiences informs these processes, and where levers for changing inequitable systems and structures might exist within the family.
Revisiting the structure of the Short Dark Tetrad: A comparison of nine models in a sample of 64,567 participants
Authors: Kay Cameron Stuart , Castillo Andrew J , Condon David M
Published: January 2025

The present study evaluates the factor structure of the Short Dark Tetrad (SD4), a measureassessing Machiavellianism, grandiose narcissism, psychopathy, and everyday sadism. Using alarge-scale, cross-sectional dataset (N = 64,567), we compared nine models to determine theoptimal factor representation of the SD4. We found a bifactor model provided the best fit, withseparate specific factors for Machiavellianism/psychopathy, grandiose narcissism, and everydaysadism in addition to a global latent factor. This finding suggests that the four subscales areunited by a common core. Moreover, it indicates the unique aspects of Machiavellianism andpsychopathy represent opposite ends of the same dimension and the sadism subscale isempirically distinct from the psychopathy subscale. However, the differentiation between thesadism and psychopathy subscales appears to primarily be a consequence of the sadism subscalebeing defined almost entirely by vicarious sadism. Taken together, these findings contribute toour understanding of antagonistic personality traits, while also pointing to the need for furtherrefinement in the measurement of everyday sadism within the SD4.
Effects of a Low-Intensity Gratitude Intervention on Psychological Well-Being Outcomes: A Randomized Controlled Trial in a Sample of Japanese Young Adults
Authors: Nawa Norberto Eiji
Published: January 2025

Gratitude interventions have been shown to improve subjective well-being but results often depend on cultural context, with non-WEIRD populations typically benefitting less than WEIRD populations (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, Democratic). This study examined the effects of a low-intensity gratitude intervention on psychological well-being in 404 Japanese young adults. Hypotheses and methods were preregistered. Analyses focused on 138 participants with moderate/low well-being and no depression or anxiety symptoms at baseline. Results showed that participants in the gratitude intervention group experienced increases in Psychological Well-Being Scale Autonomy, with effects lasting at least 3 months. Additionally, while both groups showed increased mean scores on the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form, effects in the control group receded after 3 months but persisted in the gratitude intervention group. These findings suggest that gratitude interventions can have lasting effects on psychological well-being, even in cultural contexts where such interventions are less likely to influence subjective well-being.
Dynamics of water pollution concentration with uniform and exponential increment of pollutants
Authors: Kafle Jeevan , Chaudhary Ranjan Kumar , Dangol Bekha Ratna
Published: January 2025

The study focuses on the one dimensional Advection-Dispersion Equation (ADE) to study the dynamics of concentration of water pollution when the pollutants at the source is increasing uniformly and exponentially. Analytical solutions are obtained by using Laplace transform and numerical solutions are by Finite Difference Method (FDM). The steady state case is studied. The dynamics of pollution concentration along the length of river channel are studied through two dimensional plots by varying the rate of added pollutants, cross sectional area of river and water flow velocity. The pollution concentration decreases along the length of river (downstream) for each analysis. The analytical and numerical solutions are shown in three dimensional plots. The analytical and numerical solutions are compared with the help of relative error. The relative errors calculated for uniform and exponential increment of pollutants at the source are compared while studying the dynamics of the concentration. The environmental and chemical engineering may substantially benefit from such studies.
Chemical profiling, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of the essential oil of Matricaria recutita (Chamomile)
Authors: Baral Ram Prasad , Adhikari Rameshwar , Adhikari Achyut
Published: January 2025

Matricaria recutita, commonly known as chamomile, is extensively utilized in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries for its medicinal and essential oil properties. Local people from the Karnali Province of Nepal use this plant against skin and vaginal infection by bacteria and fungi. This research focuses on extracting essential oil through hydro-distillation, followed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) to identify its chemical constituents and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities against bacteria and fungi responsible for common skin infections. The GC-MS analysis of the essential oil from M. recutita identified eleven chemical components. The major constituents, with respective area percentages at retention times 37.16, 11.79, and 7.88 in the GC chromatogram, were -farnesene (46.56%), -bisabolol oxide-A (11.79%), and menthol (7.88%). Limonene, methyl salicylate, and -bisabolol oxide-B also constituted the lowest area percentages at 1.36%, 1.59%, and 1.62%, respectively. The essential oil exhibited significant antioxidant activity with IC50 = 0.1924 µL/mL. Additionally, the essential oil exhibited notable antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC6538P and Candida albicans, displaying zones of inhibition measuring 10.64 mm and 14.44 mm, respectively. The broth method also revealed that the MIC is above the 250 mg/mL range and has more potential for inhibition.
Thermal properties and non-bonded interactions in human PMP2 variants: A molecular dynamics study
Authors: Aryal Prabin , Powrel Jhulan
Published: January 2025

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease has been known for a long time, affecting population worldwide. Many studies on this disease have been conducted, including clinical as well as computational, but no effective medical cure has yet been found. This disease is caused due to mutation in the human peripheral myelin protein 2 (PMP2) responsible for myelin formation and maintenance.
In this research work, we have done a comparative molecular dynamics study on the PMP2 protein and its M114T mutant variant, focusing on non-bonded interactions and thermal properties in a biologically relevant environment. The primary objective was to explore the structural differences between the two proteins at temperatures of 305 K, 310 K, and 315 K. Using the NAMD software for molecular dynamics simulations, various analyses were performed, including RMSD estimation, counting number of hydrogen bond formation, salt bridge occupancy assessment, estimation of vdW and electrostatic interaction energies in the system, and estimation of thermal diffusivity of the proteins as well as specific heat capacity (Cv) of the system.
The results suggested slight difference between the structure of the two proteins. In the mutant, a slight increase in RMSD values was observed, suggesting a minor reduction in structural stability compared to the wild-type protein. The number of hydrogen bonds formed was generally higher in the wild-type protein, with slightly more differences observed at 305 K and 315 K than at 310 K. Analysis of salt bridge occupancy revealed notable differences in the formation patterns between the two proteins. The mutation was found to have a greater impact on salt bridge formation. In addition to this, the vdW and electrostatic interaction energies were found to be lower in the system with mutant variant, with both energies decreasing gradually as temperature increased, indicating a more robust interaction profile in the system with wild-type protein. Also, the estimated value of thermal diffusivity indicated that the mutant was slightly more efficient at conducting heat than the wild-type protein; the thermal diffusivity of both proteins was much lower than that of water. Finally, a non-linear (concave nature) change in Cv with temperature was observed in both protein systems.
The work was further extended to verify the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution law which confirmed the proper distribution of kinetic energy among particles, and the temperature fluctuation was found to follow a Gaussian distribution during the NVE simulation, which was as expected.
Computational evaluation on spectroscopic (FT-IR, Raman), electronic and biological, and NLO properties of cirsilineol by DFT, ADMET, and molecular docking method
Authors: Paneru Tirth Raj , Tandon Poonam , Joshi Bhawani Datt
Published: January 2025

Cirsilineol is a natural product that has pharmacological characteristics and is used to prevent the growth of cancer. This study aims to investigate the spectroscopic, electronic, and biological properties of drugs and predict their suitability for drug-like candidates to inhibit prostate cancer. The computational evaluation was performed with density functional theory (DFT) at B3LYP/6−311++G(d,p) level of theory and drug-like characteristics rendered from ADMET analysis. Spectral measurement for IR and Raman provided evidence of intra-molecular hydrogen bonding of the OH group in ring R1. The electronic transition properties of the title compound were determined using TD-DFT with a polarized continuum model in solvent ethanol, resulting in a blue shift in absorption wavelength. The electrostatic potential mapped with the van der Wall surface predicted effective electrophiles and nucleophiles, allowing for the layout of intra- and intermolecular hydrogen bonds. The pharmacological properties of cirsilineol determined by ADMED analysis confirmed that it is non-toxic. To assess the biological performance of cirsilineol, molecular docking was performed with protein codes 1E3G and 1GS4, which showed inhibition action with binding affinity −7.7 and −7.8 kcal/mol, respectively.