bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Deep Learning-Based Invalid Point Removal Method for Fringe Projection Profilometry
Authors: He Nan , Huang Jiachun , Liu Shaoli , Fan Sizhe , Liu Jianhua , Hu Jia , Gong Hao 
Published: November 2024

AbstractFringe projection profilometry (FPP) has been widely applied to non-contact three-dimensional measurement in industries owing to its high accuracy and speed. The point cloud, which is a measurement result of the FPP system, typically contains a large number of invalid points caused by the background, ambient light, shadows, and object edge regions. Research on noisy point detection and elimination has been conducted over the past two decades. However, existing invalid point removal methods are based on image intensity analysis and are only applicable to simple measurement backgrounds that are purely dark. In this paper, we propose a novel invalid point removal framework that consists of two aspects: (1) A convolutional neural network (CNN) is designed to segment the foreground from the background of different intensity conditions in FPP measurement circumstances to remove background points and the most discrete points in background regions. (2) A two-step method based on the fringe image intensity threshold and a bilateral filter is proposed to eliminate the small number of discrete points remaining after background segmentation caused by shadows and edge areas on objects. Experimental results verify that the proposed framework (1) can remove background points intelligently and accurately in different types of complex circumstances, and (2) performs excellently in discrete point detection from object regions.
Estimates of population-level palliative care need in the UK: a descriptive analysis of mortality data before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Fantoni Erin Raquel , Wynne Natasha , Finucane Anne M. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Existing estimates of palliative care need in the UK were produced before the COVID-19 pandemic. We sought to produce updated, population-level estimates of palliative care need for each of the four UK nations and explore how these changed during the pandemic.

Methods
We conducted a descriptive analysis of routine data. We used a well-established, diagnosis-based methodology which produced minimal estimates of palliative care need based on underlying causes of death; intermediate estimates based on underlying and contributory causes of death; and maximal estimates based on excluding unexpected causes of death. Additional estimates incorporated deaths involving COVID-19. All methods were applied to official mortality statistics from England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland for the years 2017 to 2021.

Results
From 2017 to 2019 for the UK in total, palliative care need was estimated at ~ 74% (minimal), ~ 90% (intermediate) and ~ 96% (maximal) of total deaths, which was broadly consistent with previous studies. Results were similar across all nations. In the pandemic years, 2020-21, the minimal estimates remained stable in terms of the number of people in need but dropped significantly in terms of the proportion of deaths associated with palliative care need (to ~ 66%) due to the overall increase in mortality and large number of deaths from COVID-19. The intermediate (~ 90%) and maximal (~ 96%) estimates showed an increase in the number of people in need but remained stable in proportion of deaths. When deaths involving COVID-19 were treated as deaths associated with palliative need, the minimal estimates increased to ~ 77% and intermediate estimates increased to ~ 92%.

Conclusions
In each of the UK’s nations, most people who die will have palliative care needs. Excluding deaths from COVID-19 in population-level estimates of palliative care need risks under-estimating true levels of need. Future studies which estimate population-level palliative care need should consider factoring in deaths from COVID-19.
Parental epigenetic age acceleration and risk of adverse birth outcomes: the Norwegian mother, father and child cohort study
Authors: Magnus Maria C. , Lee Yunsung , Carlsen Ellen Ø. , Arge Lise A. , Jugessur Astanand , Kvalvik Liv G. , Morken Nils-Halvdan , Ramlau-Hansen Cecilia H. , Myrskylä Mikko , Magnus Per , Håberg Siri E. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Few studies have examined associations between maternal epigenetic age acceleration and adverse birth outcomes, and none have investigated paternal epigenetic age acceleration. Our objective was to assess the associations of parental (both maternal and paternal) epigenetic age acceleration in relation to birth outcomes.

Methods
Parental epigenetic age was estimated using seven established epigenetic clocks in 2198 mothers and 2193 fathers from the Norwegian Mother, Father, and Child Cohort Study (MoBa). Individual epigenetic age acceleration was then calculated as residuals from linear regressions of estimates from the epigenetic clocks on chronological age. Further, linear regression was used to analyze differences in continuous outcomes (gestational length and standardized birthweight), while logistic regression was used for binary outcomes (preterm birth, post-term birth, small-for-gestational age [SGA], large-for-gestational age [LGA], and pre-eclampsia), adjusting for chronological age, parity, educational level, smoking, and BMI.

Results
Increasing maternal, but not paternal, epigenetic age acceleration was associated with decreased gestational length for five out of six clocks, with adjusted estimates ranging from a mean 0.51-day decrease (95% CI − 1.00, − 0.02; p-value 0.043) for the Horvath clock to a 0.80-day decrease (95% CI − 1.29, − 0.31; p-value 0.002) for the Levine clock. An association with increasing maternal epigenetic age acceleration according to the DunedinPACE clock was also seen with greater standardized birthweight [mean difference 0.08 (95% CI 0.04, 0.12; p-value < 0.001]. These results were also reflected in an increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth and LGA. No associations were observed with post-term birth, SGA, or pre-eclampsia.

Conclusions
Maternal, but not paternal, epigenetic age acceleration is associated with shorter pregnancies and an increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth. This may suggest that women’s biological age acceleration, including factors such as metabolic and physiologic state, is an additional risk factor for preterm delivery, beyond chronological age.
Opportunities to enhance retention on medication for opioid use disorder for adolescents and young adults: results from a qualitative study with medical providers in Philadelphia, PA
Authors: Herrera Maria Christina , Darien Kaja , Wood Sarah , Hadland Scott E. , Deanna Wilson J. , Dowshen Nadia 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) are under-prescribed to adolescents and young adults (AYA). Few published studies have explored challenges to and opportunities to enhance continuous provision of MOUD for AYA. Our report focuses on this emergent theme that was identified as part of a larger qualitative study.

Methods
We purposively sampled and enrolled medical providers who prescribed MOUD to AYA. Semi-structured individual interviews using chart-stimulated recall explored barriers and facilitators to MOUD retention. We used modified grounded theory in our qualitative analysis, with double coding of interviews.

Results
Barriers to retention on MOUD included patient-level (i.e., return to substance use) and system-level factors (i.e., cost, delayed receipt, pharmacy challenges, and in-person visit requirements). Facilitators included patient-level (i.e., motivation, support networks) and system-level factors (i.e., telehealth access, availability of certified recovery specialists).

Conclusions
Our study is the first to look at retention for this key age group, setting it apart from the existing body of literature that looks at medication initiation. Our findings confirm that significant systemic barriers exist to AYA patients’ retention on MOUD. Further research is needed to develop interventions that facilitate continuous delivery of high-quality care among this key population.
How social media are changing pediatricians and pediatrics? – A claim for regulation
Authors: Bella Saverio La , Ludovico Armando Di , Parri Niccolò , Mauro Antonio Di , Corsello Antonio 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Social media has revolutionized the way healthcare professionals communicate with the public, particularly in Pediatrics. With over 5 billion users globally, platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have become increasingly popular even among caregivers in recent years. These channels offer unique opportunities to improve public health education, allowing pediatricians to reach a wide audience with evidence-based content.

Main body
However, the risks associated with misinformation pose significant challenges to health professionals and medical organizations. In response, new recommendations for the proper use of social media in pediatric health communication should be proposed, aiming to provide a network where pediatricians can collaborate, share evidence-based information, and develop effective strategies for digital communication. With the growing use of artificial intelligence in healthcare and the rise of parental self-care practices, pediatricians must actively curate and share reliable information.

Conclusion
This could serve as a new hub for ensuring that accurate, high-quality evidence-based information is disseminated, balancing the benefits of digital health advancements with the ethical responsibility of safeguarding patient care. By prioritizing professionalism, ethical communication, and technological adaptation, the aim should be to foster a more informed and health-conscious community.
Inhaled antibiotics for treating pneumonia in invasively ventilated patients in intensive care unit: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials with trial sequential analysis
Authors: Sella Nicolò , Pettenuzzo Tommaso , De Cassai Alessandro , Zarantonello Francesco , Congedi Sabrina , Bruni Andrea , Garofalo Eugenio , Ocagli Honoria , Gregori Dario , Longhini Federico , Navalesi Paolo , Boscolo Annalisa ,   the PADOVA ICU Group, Bertoncello Carlo Albero , Franchetti Nicola , Schiavolin Chiara , Carofiglio Giuliana , Guidotto Chiara , De Lorenzi Giovanni , Legnaro Christian , Nardelli Marco , Pistollato Elisa , Mormando Giulia , Peralta Arianna , Petranzan Enrico , Muraro Luisa , Persona Paolo , Pacchiarini Giorgia 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
The use of inhaled antibiotics for treating pneumonia in invasively ventilated patients offers a direct approach, allowing for high local concentrations of the drug in the lower respiratory tract while simultaneously reducing systemic toxicity. However, the real efficacy and safety of nebulized antibiotics remain unclear. The aim of the present is to assess among critically adult patients with pneumonia and invasive ventilation, whether receiving adjuvant inhaled antibiotics improves the rate of microbiological eradication.

Methods
A comprehensive literature search of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) was conducted (from inception until September 20, 2024, PROSPERO-CRD592906) across Medline, Embase, and Scopus. Randomized controlled trials, enrolling intensive care units (ICU) patients with pneumonia and comparing nebulized antimicrobial therapy (inhaled group) with intravenous antimicrobial treatment or intravenous antimicrobial therapy plus inhaled placebo (control group), were included. The primary outcome was the rate of microbiological eradication after treatment. Secondary outcomes were the rate of clinical recovery, the incidence of drug-related adverse events, ICU and hospital mortality. A qualitative analysis was conducted according to the GRADE framework. Data were pooled using an odds-ratio analysis. The heterogeneity and reliability of our results were evaluated using the I2-statistic and trial sequential analysis (TSA), respectively.

Results
A total of 11 RCTs (1472 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Compared to controls, the use of adjuvant inhaled antibiotics determined a greater rate of microbiological eradication (OR 2.63, 95% CI 1.36–5.09; low certainty of evidence). The TSA confirmed the reliability of our primary outcome. Moreover, nebulized antibiotics increased the risk of bronchospasm (OR 3.15, 95% CI 1.33–7.47; high evidence), while nephrotoxicity, clinical recovery, ICU and hospital survival (either in the case of pneumonia caused by MDR bacteria or not) were not different between groups.

Conclusions
In conclusion, compared to the sole intravenous therapy, the use of adjuvant inhaled antibiotics for treatment of pneumonia in invasively ventilated critically ill patients was associated with a greater incidence of microbiological eradication (low GRADE and high risk of publication bias), but not with clinical recovery and survival.
Influenza vaccination in patients with acute heart failure (PANDA II): study protocol for a hospital-based, parallel-group, cluster randomized controlled trial in China
Authors: Zhang Yiqun , Liu Rong , Zhao Yangyang , Wang Zhiyan , Wang Chi , Li Qiang , Han Dorothy , Anderson Craig S. , Du Xin , Dong Jianzeng 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Influenza vaccination confers broad benefits in the elderly and certain high-risk populations, but its effectiveness in patients with acute heart failure (HF) is uncertain. Rates of influenza vaccination are low in China due to poor awareness, cultural misunderstandings, and cost.

Aims
To determine the effectiveness of influenza vaccination in patients with acute HF admitted to hospitals in China.

Methods
The second Population Assessment of Influenza and Disease Activity (PANDA II) study is a two-arm, parallel-group, county-level hospital-based, cluster randomized controlled trial to determine the benefits and risks of full access to routine free influenza vaccination before hospital discharge, compared to routine limited use of influenza vaccination, on the primary endpoint of death or hospital readmission. Consecutive hospitalized patients at each site are enrolled to a target of 50 participants in each autumn–winter influenza outbreak period (October to March) over 3 consecutive years to reach the required sample size. Patients are centrally followed up at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after hospital discharge (or death if earlier). Site numbers varied across year according to predicted influenza activity and logistical reasons.

Conclusions
This study offers a unique chance to clarify uncertainties surrounding the effectiveness of influenza vaccination in patients with HF and to lay the groundwork for future prevention strategies.

Trial registration
This trial was registered with the acronym PANDA II (Population Assessment of Influenza and Disease Activity) at ChiCTR.org.cn (ChiCTR2100053264). Registered on 17 November 2021.
Road traffic noise and breast cancer: DNA methylation in four core circadian genes
Authors: Thacher Jesse D. , Snigireva Anastasiia , Dauter Ulrike Maria , Delaval Mathilde N. , Oudin Anna , Mattisson Kristoffer , Sørensen Mette , Borgquist Signe , Albin Maria , Broberg Karin 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Transportation noise has been linked with breast cancer, but existing literature is conflicting. One proposed mechanism is that transportation noise disrupts sleep and the circadian rhythm. We investigated the relationships between road traffic noise, DNA methylation in circadian rhythm genes, and breast cancer. We selected 610 female participants (318 breast cancer cases and 292 controls) enrolled into the Malmö, Diet, and Cancer cohort. DNA methylation of CpGs (N = 29) in regulatory regions of circadian rhythm genes (CRY1, BMAL1, CLOCK, and PER1) was assessed by pyrosequencing of DNA from lymphocytes collected at enrollment. To assess associations between modeled 5-year mean residential road traffic noise and differentially methylated CpG positions, we used linear regression models adjusting for potential confounders, including sociodemographics, shiftwork, and air pollution. Linear mixed effects models were used to evaluate road traffic noise and differentially methylated regions. Unconditional logistic regression was used to investigate CpG methylation and breast cancer.

Results
We found that higher mean road traffic noise was associated with lower DNA methylation of three CRY1 CpGs (CpG1, CpG2, and CpG12) and three BMAL1 CpGs (CpG2, CpG6, and CpG7). Road traffic noise was also associated with differential methylation of CRY1 and BMAL1 promoters. In CRY1 CpG2 and CpG5 and in CLOCK CpG1, increasing levels of methylation tended to be associated with lower odds of breast cancer, with odds ratios (OR) of 0.88 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.76–1.02), 0.84 (95% CI 0.74–0.96), and 0.80 (95% CI 0.68–0.94), respectively.

Conclusions
In summary, our data suggest that DNA hypomethylation in CRY1 and BMAL1 could be part of a causal chain from road traffic noise to breast cancer. This is consistent with the hypothesis that disruption of the circadian rhythm, e.g., from road traffic noise exposure, increases the risk of breast cancer. Since no prior studies have explored this association, it is essential to replicate our results.

Graphical abstract
3D in vitro modelling of post-partum cardiovascular health reveals unique characteristics and signatures following hypertensive disorders in pregnancy
Authors: Chung Ming Clara Liu , Pienaar Dillan , Ghorbanpour Sahar , Chen Hao , Roberts Lynne Margaret , Cole Louise , McGrath Kristine C. , Padula Matthew P. , Henry Amanda , Gentile Carmine , McClements Lana 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) affect 2–8% of pregnancies and are associated postpartum with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, although mechanisms are poorly understood.

Methods
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC)-derived cardiomyocytes, cardiac fibroblasts and coronary artery endothelial cells were cocultured to form cardiac spheroids (CSs) in collagen type-1 hydrogels containing 10% patient plasma collected five years postpartum [n = 5 per group: normotensive control, gestational hypertension (GH) and preeclampsia (PE)]. Plasma-treated CSs were assessed for cell viability and contractile function and subjected to immunofluorescence staining and imaging. A quantitative proteomic analysis of plasma samples was conducted (controls n = 21; GH n = 5; PE n = 12).

Results
Contraction frequency (CF) was increased in PE-treated CSs (CF: 45.5 ± 3.4 contractions/minute, p < 0.001) and GH-treated CSs (CF: 45.7 ± 4.0 contractions/minute, p < 0.001), compared to controls (CF = 21.8 ± 2.6 contractions/min). Only PE-treated CSs presented significantly increased fractional shortening (FS) % (9.95 ± 1.8%, p < 0.05) compared to controls (3.7 ± 1.1%). GH-treated CSs showed a reduction in cell viability (p < 0.05) and an increase in α-SMA expression (p < 0.05). Proteomics analyses identified twenty differentially abundant proteins, with hemoglobin A2 being the only protein perturbed in both GH and PE versus control plasma (p < 0.05).

Conclusions
The innovative patient-relevant CS platforms led to the discovery of biomarkers/targets linked to cell death signaling and cardiac remodeling in GH-induced CVD and vascular/endothelial cell dysfunction in PE-induced CVD.
The positive influence of Tibetan Buddhist monasteries on forest conservation
Authors: Zhang Shidong , Wu Tong , Guo Luo 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP) is vital for stabilizing climate in East and South Asia and its glaciers and snow meltwater nourish key continental rivers. The region’s forests are not only ecologically essential but also fragile. The practices of local herdsmen, shaped by long-standing cultural traditions, significantly affect forest dynamics. This study examines the vital role that Tibetan Buddhist monasteries play in forest conservation on the QTP. We utilize data sources including extensive field surveys and geospatial data to assess the impact of monastery and village locations on forest conditions. Spatial analysis techniques, such as Moran’s I and Ripley’s K function, reveal significant clustering of monasteries and villages, which are closely linked with forest conditions. Our findings indicate that forests near Buddhist monasteries have higher aboveground biomass and better quality compared to other areas, suggesting that their presence supports better forest conservation practices. This positive influence is attributed to the cultural significance of these sites and the environmental consciousness promoted by Buddhist cultural teachings. Additionally, this study employs analytical methods including Random Forest and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to explore the drivers of forest quality. Initial aboveground biomass, climatic factors, and monastery density emerge as key influences on forest quality within monastery buffer zones, indicating that cultural factors are crucial in shaping forest landscapes.
Replicability of paleotemperature records in the northern Okinawa Trough and its implications for paleoceanographic reconstructions
Authors: Tung Ru-Yun , Ho Sze Ling , Kubota Yoshimi , Yamamoto Masanobu , Hefter Jens , Shen Chuan-Chou 
Published: November 2024

AbstractGeochemical proxies are frequently utilized in the reconstruction of past ocean temperatures. Due to resource constraints, these reconstructions typically rely on a single sediment core, raising questions about the local and regional representativeness of paleotemperature records. To address this, we analyzed four sediment cores located within a 10-km radius in the northern Okinawa Trough (OT), which share the same climatic forcing and thus should reflect similar climate variations. We compiled published data and generated new paleotemperature estimates based on three widely used geochemical proxies (foraminiferal Mg/Ca, $${\text{U}}_{37}^{{{\text{K}}^{\prime}}}$$

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, $${\text{TEX}}_{86}$$

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). Analysis of the mean absolute deviations for nearby records based on the same proxy revealed that $${\text{U}}_{37}^{{{\text{K}}^{\prime}}}$$

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has the highest reproducibility, followed by Mg/Ca and $${\text{TEX}}_{86}$$

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. However, inconsistencies in inter-proxy offsets among nearby sites suggest the presence of noise in the proxy records, likely stemming from instrumental errors and sediment heterogeneity. Furthermore, the Mg/Ca and $${\text{U}}_{37}^{{{\text{K}}^{\prime}}}$$

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paleotemperature records agree within uncertainty when accounting for inter-site variability and calibration uncertainties, challenging previous interpretations of temperature signals from different seasons. All proxies indicate similar glacial-interglacial trends, albeit with varying magnitudes of temperature change. Both Mg/Ca and $${\text{U}}_{37}^{{{\text{K}}^{\prime}}}$$

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records suggest a glacial cooling of ~ 3 °C, whereas $${\text{TEX}}_{86}$$

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sea surface temperature (SST) data indicate a stronger glacial cooling of approximately ~ 6–8 °C. Modern observations indicate a subsurface $${\text{TEX}}_{86}$$

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recording depth of 50–100 m, coinciding with the thermocline. However, the $${\text{TEX}}_{86}$$

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subsurface temperature (subT) record does not resemble the Mg/Ca records of thermocline-dwelling foraminifera species. Instead, there is a better agreement with benthic foraminiferal Mg/Ca records of Uvigerina spp. (~ 700 m) and the intermediate temperature record derived from radiolarian assemblages (~ 500 m), pointing to a $${\text{TEX}}_{86}$$

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recording depth that is deeper than the thermocline. In summary, our findings show that proxy noise can impact inter-proxy comparisons of paleotemperature records, but not the direction of glacial-interglacial shifts. Future research should prioritize constraining the recording depth of paleotemperature proxies and reducing calibration uncertainty for more precise and reliable quantitative paleotemperature reconstruction.