bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Holocene evolution of the buried tidal sand body in the North Jiangsu Plain of China revealed by luminescence dating
Authors: Nian Xiaomei , Zhang Weiguo , Wang Xuemei , Qiu Fengyue 
Published: December 2024

In the northern Jiangsu coastal zone of China, the buried tidal sand body (BTSB) is suggested to share a similar origin with the offshore radial sand ridge system in the southwestern Yellow Sea. However, its chronological framework remains inadequately understood. This study conducted optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating of both silt- and sand-sized quartz on core LDC from the southwestern end of the BTSB. Together with data from the previously studied core XYK closer to the current coastline, this study aims to clarify the chronology of the BTSB and refine its evolution history. The results indicate that in both cores, sand-sized quartz provides more reliable age estimates than silt-sized quartz for the sandy sediment layers. Additionally, the discrepancy between ages derived from the single-grain central age model and the minimum age model is smaller within the top 11 m of the core, which was deposited over the last 0.9 ka. This period corresponds well with the southern migration of the Yellow River and its sediment discharge into the Yellow Sea from 1128 to 1855 CE. It suggests that distinct sediment sources from the Yellow and Yangtze Rivers may account for the observed differences in OSL characteristics. The OSL ages reveal significant temporal variations in sedimentation rates during the Holocene, with the most rapid deposition occurring between 1.2–0.4 ka and 10–8 ka in core LDC, and between 2–1 ka in core XYK. Together with dating results from the central part of the BTSB, it reveals complex spatiotemporal variations in sediment accumulation and emphasizes the need for detailed sediment sampling and dating to fully elucidate the evolutionary history of the coastal plain.
Qualitative study on the ability of neurological nurses to manage patients with indwelling gastrointestinal canal
Authors: Wang Zezhou , Liu Yan , Fang Kui , Hao Xixi , Xue Zhihan , Dong Xue , Wang Haijun 
Published: December 2024

Aim and objectivesThis study aims to assess the proficiency of nurses in the neurology department in managing patients with indwelling gastrointestinal canal.BackgroundMany critically ill patients in neurology departments require the placement of nasoenteric tubes to provide enteral nutrition. However, in clinical practice, there exists considerable variability in nurses’ competencies regarding the management of patients with nasoenteric tubes. A thorough understanding of the challenges nurses face throughout the entire process of nasoenteric tube care and the development of targeted improvement measures are crucial for delivering enhanced patient care and facilitating patient recovery.DesignA qualitative interview study.MethodsFrom August to October 2023, 11 neurological nurses were recruited offline in three hospitals for semi-structured and in-depth interviews. The data analysis uses the KJ method to summarize and classify the themes from the semi-structured interview results, and then organize the themes into a coherent visual and logical path. The COREQ list is used.ResultsThe researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 11 neurology nurses from three hospitals using a purposive sampling method, of which 64% of the participants were female and 36% were male; the average age was 38.27 ± 7.85 years; 27% from the Department of Neurology, 73% from the Department of Neurosurgery; junior professional titles accounted for 18%, intermediate professional titles accounted for 64%, senior professional titles accounted for 18%; 27% of the subjects were head nurses and 73% were nurses. The study identified 5 themes: (1) Preparation and evaluation before intubation; (2) Enhancement of intubation success rates; (3) Prevention of complications; (4) Management of complications and emergencies; (5) The acquisition of relevant knowledge and experience. In clinical practice, the bedside blind insertion technique is random and has not yet formed a unified standard, and the specific operation details and techniques need to be further improved.ConclusionDisparities exist in the nursing capabilities of neurology nurses due to variations in their knowledge and experience regarding gastrointestinal canal management.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by Chlamydia psittaci: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhou Yan , Zou Ya , Zhou Lu , Wei Hua , Zou Yong-Wei , Guo Xi-Rui , Ye Yong-Qin , Li Na , Lu Yun 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundPsittacosis is a zoonotic disease with a low incidence rate and a lack of specificity in clinical manifestations, making it prone to be missed, misdiagnosed, and even cause delayed treatment for patients. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) was successfully performed for the diagnosis of a young patient with psittacosis progressing to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and precisely targeted antibiotic treatment was promptly administered. Additionally, a comprehensive review was conducted on 68 cases of psittacosis complicated with ARDS, with the goal of improving the clinical awareness of this disease.Case presentationThis study reports a 37-year-old young female who was infected with Chlamydia psittaci (C. psittaci) after contact with parrots and eventually developed ARDS. The patient initially developed fever and sore throat, followed by cough and expectoration. Despite receiving empirical anti-infection treatment, the condition continued to progress rapidly, and severe dyspnea developed within a short period of time. She was subsequently transferred to the intensive care unit (ICU) and underwent tracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation due to acute respiratory failure. After the DNA sequence of C. psittaci in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was detected through mNGS, the patient received targeted antibiotic treatment with doxycycline and moxifloxacin, and her clinical symptoms gradually improved.ConclusionEpidemiological investigations and the application of mNGS are crucial for the early identification and diagnosis of psittacosis. For suspected psittacosis patients, the application of mNGS technology could promote early identification of pathogens and targeted antimicrobial therapy, which might improve patient prognosis. In addition, young psittacosis patients without underlying disease should also be vigilant about the possibility of developing severe cases.
Associations of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms with amyloid burden in cognitively normal older adults
Authors: Zhang Lei , Gong Yi-Miao , Wang San-Wang , Shi Pei-Ling , Li Ming-Zhe , Wen Xin , Wang Di-Xin , Zheng Yong-Bo , Han Yong 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundPosttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with the development of dementia. However, the link between PTSD and preclinical Alzheimer’s disease pathology (amyloid β [Aβ]) remains controversial. Moreover, the correlation between the severity of PTSD with Aβ levels remains unknown.MethodsThis cross-sectional study sought to investigate the associations of PTSD symptoms with global and regional brain Aβ burden. To this end, data were obtained from participants in the Anti-Amyloid Treatment in Asymptomatic Alzheimer’s Disease (A4) Study. In addition, we explored the association between the severity of PTSD symptoms and Aβ levels.ResultsA total of 4,228 participants aged 65 to 85 years were included in the final analysis. The results showed that PTSD symptoms were significantly associated with higher global Aβ levels (1.15 ± 0.20 vs. 1.09 ± 0.19; β = 0.056; p &lt; 0.001), after adjusting for covariates. The association between PTSD symptoms and Aβ levels was not affected by sex, age, ApoE genotype, or psychiatric diseases. Similarly, PTSD symptoms were significantly associated with Aβ levels in all subregions, including the anterior cingulate, posterior cingulate, parietal cortex, precuneus, temporal cortex, and frontal cortex. In addition, the group with severe PTSD symptoms (1.22 ± 0.24) exhibited higher global Aβ levels than the groups with moderate (1.14 ± 0.19) or mild (1.12 ± 0.20) symptoms or the control (1.08 ± 0.18), with p &lt; 0.001.ConclusionThe findings imply a close relationship between PTSD and brain Aβ levels, irrespective of sex, age, ApoE genotype, or psychiatric diseases. More well-designed studies are needed to further explore the relationship and mechanism underlying the association between PTSD and Aβ burden.
The role of FDG PET assessment in patients with advanced breast cancer treated with cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitors in the second-line setting
Authors: Kubeczko Marcin , Polakiewicz-Gilowska Anna , D’Amico Andrea , Chrabański Olgierd , Świderska Katarzyna , Chmielik Ewa , Blamek Sławomir , Handkiewicz-Junak Daria , Jarząb Michał 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundCyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors have demonstrated a survival benefit in the second-line treatment of patients with hormone receptor-positive human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative advanced breast cancer. However, identifying prognostic biomarkers remains a challenge. Thus, we aimed to assess the prognostic value of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography (FDG-PET-CT) performed before CDK4/6 inhibitors initiation.MethodsThis single-center retrospective analysis comprised patients treated with CDK4/6 inhibitors in the second-line setting between 2018 and 2024, with FDG-PET-CT performed before CDK4/6 inhibitor initiation.ResultsThe study included 39 patients with a median age of 63 years (IQR 50 -71). Among them, 12 had de novo metastatic disease (30.8%), and 13 had oligometastatic disease (33.3%). Treatment distribution was as follows: 15 patients received palbociclib (38%), 19 ribociclib (49%), and five abemaciclib (13%). Most patients received fulvestrant (31 patients, 79%), whereas eight patients (21%) were treated with letrozole. The median progression-free survival (PFS) in all studied patients was 25.8 months. Notably, baseline SUVmax (maximum standardized uptake value) showed statistically and clinically significant differences. Patients in the low SUVmax group had a median PFS of 30.7 months, compared to 13.0 months for those in the high SUVmax group (p = 0.038). The 2-year PFS was 76.2% [95% CI 51.8% - 89.4%] for the low SUVmax group, contrasting with 22.3% [95% CI 4.0% - 49.9%] for the high SUVmax group. High SUVmax, poor performance status, and de novo metastatic disease were independent prognostic factors for PFS.ConclusionsFDG-PET-CT performed before cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor commencement is a valuable prognostic tool in hormone receptor-positive human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative advanced breast cancer. Patients with SUVmax less than 8.4 experienced extended progression-free survival compared to those with higher SUVmax.
“Breaking barriers: empowering African youth through implementation of a therapeutic patient education program for juvenile idiopathic arthritis”
Authors: Hamdi Wafa , Migowa Angela , Lassoued Ferjani Hanene , Fazaa Alia , Faleye Ayodele , Miladi Saoussen , Maatallah Kaouther , Ben Abdelghani Kawther 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionPatient education is crucial in managing chronic diseases like Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). Traditional methods such as videos and brochures often fail to maintain long-term knowledge retention. Therapeutic Patient Education (TPE) offers a more effective, patient-centered approach.ObjectivePAFLAR aimed to implement a TPE program with a “train the trainers” masterclass to ensure effective delivery and improve outcomes for children with JIA.MethodsPAFLAR's TPE program was designed through a focus group, involving a literature review and strategic planning for the implementation step. The program includes specialized training for healthcare professionals enhancing their abilities to deliver TPE workshops. Participants were selected based on volunteerism and commitment to the project. Evaluations were conducted through feedback assessment of both patients and participants.ResultsPAFLAR launched a TPE program in 2023, aimed at training healthcare providers to implement TPE effectively. This initiative included both in-person and virtual masterclasses, resulting in five workshops conducted in Kenya, Tunisia, and Nigeria. These workshops covered various aspects of JIA management, such as patient and family education, self-esteem, physical activity, treatment adherence, and pain management. Early results showed significant improvements in patients’ and parents’ understanding and management of JIA, with positive feedback indicating a need for further sessions.ConclusionPAFLAR has taken the initial step in implementing a TPE program for JIA across three countries, representing different regions of Africa. The TPE program offers a promising alternative to traditional patient education methods, significantly improving patient care, empowering healthcare providers, and advancing healthcare systems.
Usenamine A: a potential therapeutic agent for rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis through its anti-inflammatory activity
Authors: Lee Yu Jeong , Li Zijun , Jang Hyun Hee , Kim Moon-Ju , Saravanakumar Kandasamy , Shim Seung Cheol , Cho Namki , Won Eun Jeong , Kim Tae-Jong 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundUsenamine A (UA) is a natural compound isolated from the lichen Usnea diffracta, and its therapeutic effects on rheumatic diseases are not well understood. This study aimed to evaluate the potential anti-inflammatory effects of UA and its therapeutic effects on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS).Materials and methodsMolecular docking was performed between the 3D structure of UA and the TNF-TNFR2 complex. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from RA and AS patients were treated with UA, and cell viability was measured using the MTS assay and flow cytometry. The in vitro effects of co-culture with UA were determined by measuring inflammatory cytokines, including IFN-γ, IL-17A, and GM-CSF, using flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The in vivo effects of UA were evaluated using an arthritis mouse model.ResultsThe docking complex of UA bound to the TNF-TNFR2 complex exhibited docking scores of −5.251 kcal/mol and −6.274 kcal/mol, confirming their active sites. UA did not affect cell viability and suppressed the production of inflammatory cytokines in the PBMCs of RA (IFN-γ, IL-17A, and GM-CSF) and AS (GM-CSF) patients. The ELISA also confirmed reduced cytokine levels in the co-culture of UA and PBMCs from RA or AS patients. In the arthritis mouse model, significantly reduced clinical and histological scores were observed in the UA treatment group.ConclusionOur findings suggest that UA has potential as a binding target for TNF, suppresses inflammatory cytokines in PBMCs, and exhibits anti-inflammatory effects on arthritis in a mouse model.
Kidney outcomes associated with SGLT2 inhibitors compared to other glucose-lowering drugs: a real-world study from China
Authors: Xiao Xiang , Ji Shuming , Zheng Tao , Wang Tianzhu , Jiang Dapeng , Liu Fang 
Published: December 2024

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the association between the utilization of Sodium-dependent glucose cotransporters inhibitors (SGLT2i) in real-world settings and kidney outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in mainland China.MethodsIn a retrospective analysis of electronic medical records from West China Hospital of Sichuan University, patients with T2D and CKD were included. Patients were divided into two groups, those initiating treatment with SGLT2i and those receiving other glucose-lowering drugs (oGLDs). The primary focus lies in examining the impact of SGLT2i on the decline slope of eGFR and major kidney events in these patients.ResultsWe enrolled 944 patients diagnosed with both T2D and CKD. Out of these, 605 patients were prescribed SGLT2i, while the remaining 339 patients received oGLDs. The median follow-up duration were 16.8 months and 20.6 months, respectively. Throughout the follow-up period, we observed a significant decrease in the rate of eGFR decline in patients using SGLT2i (4.94 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year reduction compared to oGLDs, 95% CI: 4.73–5.15). A total of 101 kidney composite endpoint events occurred, with 31 events in the SGLT2i group and 70 events in the oGLDs group. The use of SGLT2i was associated with a 65% decrease in the risk of kidney composite endpoint events (hazard ratio 0.35, 95% CI 0.19–0.63).ConclusionsIn clinical practice, SGLT2i have shown favorable effects on kidney prognosis in patients with T2D and CKD in mainland China. These effects remain consistent across patients with varying risks of CKD progression.Clinical Trial Registration NumberChiCTR2300068497.
Impact of exhaustive exercise on autonomic nervous system activity: insights from HRV analysis
Authors: Wang Weichao , Shao Mingrui , Du Weiping , Xu Yanjun 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionExhaustive exercise is a common training method in sports, but its impact on the autonomic nervous system of the human body remains unclear. Understanding the effects of exhaustive exercise on the body and its connection with the autonomic nervous system and central nervous system is crucial for guiding healthy training methods.MethodsTwenty-three participants were selected, and exhaustive exercise intervention was performed using the Bruce Protocol. By measuring heart rate variability (HRV), the effects of exhaustive exercise on the autonomic nervous system function were analyzed.ResultsAfter exhaustive exercise, time-domain indices SDNN, RMSSD, and PNN50 all significantly decreased, with changes reaching significant levels (p &lt; 0.01). Among them, the decrease in pNN50 was particularly pronounced, with a change rate of −94.55%. Frequency-domain indices VLF, LF, and HF also showed significant decreases (p &lt; 0.01), but the ratio of LF to HF showed an upward trend (p &lt; 0.01), with LF showing a greater decrease. Nonlinear indices SD1 and SD2 showed extremely significant decreases (p &lt; 0.01), and the SD2/SD1 ratio showed a significant increase (p &lt; 0.01), indicating significant changes in HRV nonlinear characteristics after exercise.DiscussionExhaustive exercise leads to a decrease in autonomic nervous system activity and an increase in sympathetic nervous system activity. These findings underscore the profound impact of exhaustive exercise on the autonomic nervous system, with implications for understanding the physiological responses to intense physical exertion. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term effects of exhaustive exercise on autonomic regulation and its potential implications for training methodologies and athlete health.
A randomized trial investigating the impact of response expectancy on the counting blessings intervention: the role of optimism as a moderator
Authors: Predatu Petronela , David Daniel , Kirsch Irving , Florean Ionuț Stelian , Predatu Răzvan 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionThis randomized controlled trial aimed to address a knowledge gap concerning the mechanisms responsible for the efficacy of gratitude interventions. Specifically, we investigated how various response expectancies (positive, ambiguous + negative, and no expectancy) impact the efficacy of the “counting blessings” intervention in influencing positive and negative emotions. Additionally, the study explores how optimism levels (high, medium, low) interact with these expectancies to influence intervention efficacy.MethodA total of 529 adult volunteers were recruited through social media and randomly assigned to one of three experimental conditions, Positive Condition (PC), Ambiguous + Negative Condition (ANC), No Expectancy Condition (NEC), using a Random Sequence Generator. Of these, 142 participants completed the seven-day counting blessings intervention, and 111 participated in a follow-up assessment 1 month later. Missing data were addressed using multiple imputation. The main outcomes were changes in positive and negative emotions, with moderation analysis assessing the interaction between optimism levels and response expectancies. The study adhered to the CONSORT guidelines.ResultsWhile no significant interaction was found between experimental conditions and time regarding emotional outcomes (p ˃ 0.05), moderation analysis revealed differential interactions between optimism levels and expectancies, particularly influencing positive emotions (p &lt; 0.009). For participants with low optimism, positive emotions significantly increased from post-intervention to follow-up in the PC (t = −2.42, p &lt; 0.016) and from pre-intervention to post-intervention in the ANC (t = 2.41, p &lt; 0.018). Participants with medium optimism experienced an increase in positive emotions across all conditions from pre-intervention to follow-up and from post-intervention to follow-up (ps &lt; 0.05). High optimism participants showed an increase in positive emotions from pre-intervention to follow-up and post-intervention to follow-up in the PC (t = 2.09, p &lt; 0.038 and t = 3.06, p &lt; 0.003) and NEC c (t = −2.76, p &lt; 0.006 and t = 2.74, p &lt; 0.007).ConclusionOur findings emphasize the effectiveness of a brief gratitude journal and underscore the nuanced role of response expectancy, especially in interaction with the initial level of optimism, in enhancing positive emotions. These results hold significance for both theoretical understanding and clinical applications.