bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Synchronizing Disaggregated Data Structures with One-Sided RDMA: Pitfalls, Experiments and Design Guidelines
Authors: Jasny Matthias , Ziegler Tobias , Nelson-Slivon Jacob , Leis Viktor , Binnig Carsten 
Published: February 2025

Remote data structures built with one-sided Remote Direct Memory Access (RDMA) are at the heart of many disaggregated database management systems today. Concurrent access to these data structures by thousands of remote workers necessitates a highly efficient synchronization scheme. Remarkably, our investigation reveals that existing synchronization schemes display substantial variations in performance and scalability. Even worse, some schemes do not correctly synchronize, resulting in rare and hard-to-detect data corruption. Motivated by these observations, we conduct the first comprehensive analysis of one-sided synchronization techniques and provide general principles for correct synchronization using one-sided RDMA. Our research demonstrates that adherence to these principles not only guarantees correctness but also results in substantial performance enhancements. This paper is an extended version of [73] in which we investigate modern 400G NICs. Our findings reveal that the challenges persist even with new generations of NICs. Consequently, we turn our attention to alternative networking hardware, such as smart switches, to address some of the limitations associated with one-sided synchronization.
Protective Effects of Low‐Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound on Cardiac Electrophysiological Function in a Rat Model of Ischemic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Lin Zhong‐Hao , Yu Qiu‐Lu , Yi Bing‐Hua , Xu Wen‐Cai , He Hua‐Ling , Huang Kai‐Yu , Zheng Cheng , Wu Shu‐Jie , Lin Jia‐Feng 
Published: February 2025

Background
Ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) is the end stage of ischemic heart disease, in which ventricular remodeling contributes to a fatal ventricular arrhythmia, worsens heart function and unfavorable outcomes, and is related to persistent chronic inflammation. Low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) is an effective treatment modality for osteoarthropathy and has been illustrated to regulate the overactive inflammatory response in various diseases. Here, we aim to investigate whether LIPUS can perform cardiac protective effects in ICM and explore its possible mechanism.

Methods
The left anterior descending artery of adult male Sprague–Dawley rats was ligated for 4 weeks to develop ICM and then treated with LIPUS. Vagotomy was applied to suppress the cholinergic anti‐inflammatory pathway. Cardiac‐specific Cav‐1 (caveolin‐1) overexpression in ICM on arrhythmias, excitation‐contraction coupling, and cardiac remodeling was investigated using the intramyocardial injection of an adeno‐associated virus serotype 9 system.

Results
The results showed that LIPUS alleviated ventricular remodeling, improved cardiac electrophysiological function, and reduced the cardiac expression of collagens and inflammatory cytokines. Vagotomy suppressed the improvement of LIPUS. The overexpression of Cav‐1 reset the influence of vagotomy.

Conclusions
We found that LIPUS had a direct effect on regional anti‐inflammation and antifibrosis, improved cardiac autonomic function and heart failure, protected the Cx43 (connexin‐43) protein, and reduced the risk of malignant arrhythmia during ICM. The cholinergic anti‐inflammatory pathway was one of the potential critical mechanisms involved, and Cav‐1 might play an important role downstream. Our study provided a new, promising, and noninvasive strategy for treating ICM.
Dietary Branched‐Chain Amino Acids Modify Postinfarct Cardiac Remodeling and Function in the Murine Heart
Authors: Nguyen Daniel C. , Wells Collin K. , Taylor Madison S. , Martinez‐Ondaro Yania , Singhal Richa , Brittian Kenneth R. , Brainard Robert E. , Moore Joseph B. , Hill Bradford G. 
Published: February 2025

Background
Branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs), which are derived from the diet, are markedly elevated in cardiac tissue following myocardial infarction (MI). Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether dietary BCAA levels influence post‐MI remodeling.

Methods
To investigate the impact of dietary BCAAs on cardiac remodeling and function after MI, we fed mice a low or a high BCAA diet for 2 weeks before MI and for 4 weeks after MI. Cardiac structural and functional changes were evaluated by echocardiography, gravimetry, and histopathological analyses. Immunoblotting was used to evaluate the effects of BCAAs on isolated cardiac myofibroblast differentiation.

Results
The low BCAA diet decreased circulating BCAA concentrations by >2‐fold when compared with the high BCAA diet. Although neither body weights nor heart masses were different in female mice fed the custom diets, male mice fed the high BCAA diet had significantly higher body and heart masses than those on the low BCAA diet. The low BCAA diet preserved stroke volume and cardiac output after MI, whereas the high BCAA diet promoted progressive decreases in cardiac function. Although BCAAs were required for myofibroblast differentiation in vitro, cardiac fibrosis, scar collagen topography, and cardiomyocyte cross‐sectional area were not different between the dietary groups; however, male mice fed the high BCAA diet had longer cardiomyocytes and higher capillary density compared with the low BCAA group.

Conclusions
A low BCAA diet mitigates eccentric cardiomyocyte remodeling and loss of cardiac function after MI in mice, with dietary effects more prominent in males.
Exploring the Relationship Between Thymosin β4 Protein and First Myocardial Infarction on the Basis of Proteomics
Authors: Lu Ziyu , Liu Qinghua , Fan Yonghua , Xiao Qiang , Yin Deling , Li Yuanmin 
Published: February 2025

Background
Plasma protein alterations may occur in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). In this study, we investigated the plasma proteomics of patients with first‐onset AMI to identify a novel diagnostic target for myocardial infarction.

Methods
Using a case–control design, we recruited 6 patients with first‐onset AMI and 6 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls. Mass spectrometry was used to analyze their plasma proteomics. Additionally, we enrolled 156 patients with AMI and 232 healthy individuals to validate the differentially expressed proteins using ELISA.

Results

A total of 58 differentially expressed proteins were identified between the 2 groups (
P
<0.05, fold change ≥2 or ≤1/2), including 36 upregulated and 22 downregulated proteins. Notably, we discovered a clinically significant protein, thymosin β4 (TMSB4), which was subsequently validated by ELISA. Plasma TMSB4 levels were significantly elevated in patients with first‐onset AMI compared with the control group (1093 [701–1608] ng/mL versus 421 [245–658] ng/mL;
P
<0.001). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated that TMSB4 is a risk factor for first‐onset AMI. The receiver operating characteristic curve yielded an area under the curve value of 0.849, with an optimal cutoff of 682 ng/mL, sensitivity of 0.808, and specificity of 0.793. A robust correlation was observed between TMSB4 and cardiac troponin I (
r
=0.9044,
P
<0.0001), and the κ test yielded a moderate concordance value (κ=0.590 [95% CI, 0.509–0.671];
P
<0.001).

Conclusions
TMSB4 holds diagnostic value for first‐onset myocardial infarction and may therefore be considered a potential diagnostic marker for infarction.

Registration

URL:
https://www.chictr.org.cn/
; unique identifier: ChiCTR2300078144.
The first proven case of aflatoxin poisoning of dogs in Serbia
Authors: Nesic K. , Kukolj V. , Davitkov D. , Nesic V. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract
Aflatoxins, secondary metabolites produced by fungi of the Aspergillus genus, are well-documented as contaminants in the food chain, posing significant risks to various species. However, data on aflatoxin poisoning in pets, specifically dogs, remains limited. The aim of this case report is to raise awareness about the susceptibility of dogs to aflatoxins and highlight the need for stricter control and responsibility from all stakeholders, from feed manufacturers to dog owners. This is particularly critical given the absence of specific regulations regarding aflatoxins in pet food. The report describes an outbreak of aflatoxicosis in three dog shelters in Serbia, involving 19 affected mongrel dogs that died within few days of the onset of symptoms, making it one of the most severe cases on record. The affected dogs initially showed sudden jaundice, characterised by a yellow discoloration of the oral mucosa, without any preceding behavioural changes or obvious signs of health issues. Over the following days, symptoms progressed to include loss of appetite, polydipsia, apathy, and depression. Abdominal swelling developed, followed by bloody diarrhoea and melena, ultimately leading to death. Blood biochemical analyses revealed a significant increase in liver enzyme activity. Despite symptomatic treatment attempts by veterinarians, all affected dogs died. Postmortem examination revealed massive haemorrhage, icterus, and ascites as the most conspicuous findings. Microscopic examination of liver tissue disclosed fibrosis and necrotic areas. In light of the clinical and pathological evidence, samples of dog food from the shelters were tested for aflatoxin content. Commercial dry dog food, which had been used for more than two months, was found to contain an average aflatoxin level of 150 μg/kg. This is the first confirmed case of chronic aflatoxicosis in dogs in Serbia, which culminated in fatal liver failure.
The impact of artificial intelligence in enhancing online learning platform effectiveness in higher education
Authors: Hamzah Hussin Ahmad , Abu Seman Muhamad Sadry , Ahmed Mahfooz 
Published: February 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized various sectors, and education is no exception. Online learning platforms, in particular, have benefited significantly from integrating AI technologies. AI can enhance online education's quality and effectiveness by automating tasks, personalizing learning experiences, and providing real-time feedback. This study investigates the impact of AI on online learning system effectiveness in Jordanian higher education institutions. Utilizing the DeLone and McLean IS Success Model, the research explores the relationships between AI features, system quality, information quality, service quality, user satisfaction, and platform effectiveness. Methodology: A quantitative research approach involving data collection through a structured questionnaire was employed. The questionnaire was designed to measure the perceived impact of AI on various aspects of online learning. Data was collected from a sample of learners and instructors at two selected Jordanian universities. Findings: The findings revealed that AI has a significant positive impact on system quality, information quality, and service quality. AI-powered features can improve the technical aspects of the platform, enhance the quality of information, and provide better support services. Moreover, the study found a strong positive relationship between user satisfaction and platform effectiveness. Satisfied users were more likely to perceive the platform as effective, leading to improved learning outcomes and engagement. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of AI in enhancing online learning. By focusing on system quality, information quality, and service quality, institutions can effectively leverage AI to improve user satisfaction and platform effectiveness. Future research should explore the long-term impact of AI on learning outcomes and the ethical implications of AI-driven education.
Lipedema awareness in fibromyalgia
Authors: Bolkan Günaydın Elzem , Ünlü Zeliha , Ay Saime , Karapınar Tolga Oğuz 
Published: February 2025

Objectives To evaluate the presence of lipedema and lipedema-related factors in fibromyalgia patients. Methods The study included 100 female patients over the age of 18 who met the fibromyalgia diagnostic criteria. The patients were evaluated for the presence/stages of lipedema. The body mass index (BMI), waist-hip ratio, waist-height ratio, and presence of hematoma tendency/telangiectasias were recorded. Patients were asked to mark the severity of their pain (widespread/on lipedema) on a 10 cm visual analog scale (VAS). The ACR 2016 Fibromyalgia Diagnostic Criteria, The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and The Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire were applied. Results Lipedema was observed in 50% of the patients (58% Stage 1 lipedema). In the lipedema group, age, duration of fibromyalgia diagnosis, hematoma tendency/presence of telangiectasias (for all; p < .001), menopausal status ( p = .004), BDI score ( p = .04), BMI ( p = .02), history of medication for fibromyalgia ( p = .01) were higher, and age at menarche ( p = .01) was lower. Lipedema stage was moderately positively correlated with BMI, number of pregnancies (for both; r:0.53 p < .001) and waist-height ratio (r:0.43 p:0.002), while VAS-lipedema pain intensity was strongly positively correlated with VAS-widespread pain intensity (r:0.62 p < .001), and moderately positively correlated with symptom severity score (r:0.55 p < .001), BMI (r:0.54 p < .001), and fibromyalgia severity score (r:0.51 p < .001). Long fibromyalgia diagnosis time ( p: 0.005), and low age at menarche ( p: 0.05) were significant risk factors for the presence of lipedema. Conclusions Lipedema is common in fibromyalgia patients. Long fibromyalgia diagnosis time and low age at menarche are significant risk factors for the presence of lipedema.
Presence of slowly expanding lesions in multiple sclerosis predicts progressive demyelination within lesions and normal-appearing tissue over time
Authors: Vavasour Irene , Elliott Colm , Arnold Douglas L , Gaetano Laura , Clayton David , Magon Stefano , Bonati Ulrike , Bernasconi Carrado , Traboulsee Anthony , Kolind Shannon 
Published: February 2025

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) slowly expanding lesions (SELs) are defined on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as contiguous regions of pre-existing focal non-contrast-enhancing T2 lesions with constant and concentric local expansion on conventional T1-weighted and T2-weighted images. SELs are associated with an increased risk of disability progression. Methods: Myelin-related changes detected using myelin water fraction (MWF) and magnetisation transfer ratio (MTR) in SELs and T2 lesions were measured over 192 weeks in participants with relapsing MS. Results: In participants with SELs (SEL+), SELs (MWF: 0.12 ± 0.03, MTR: 33.1 ± 3.6 pu) showed reduced myelin measures at baseline compared to T2 lesions (MWF: 0.13 ± 0.02, MTR: 35.1 ± 2.4 pu). In participants without SELs (SEL−), T2 lesions had higher myelin measures (MWF: 0.15 ± 0.02, MTR: 36.2 ± 2.0 pu) compared to T2 lesions in SEL+. Over 4 years, only SELs showed decreases in MWF (−11.4%). The percentage of abnormal voxels within normal-appearing white matter was higher in SEL+ and increased over time (SEL+ MWF Week 0: 0.56%, Week 192: 0.98%; SEL− MWF Week 0: 0.13%, Week 192: 0.25%). Conclusion: Our results indicate progressive focal and global demyelination in SEL+ participants and that the presence of SELs might be a biomarker for participants with ongoing diffuse or smouldering inflammation within the whole brain.
Development of a nomogram incorporating BRAF-V600E to predict central lymph node metastasis in papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Chen Denghui , Xue Xinwen , Kong Qingfeng 
Published: February 2025

Objective This study aims to identify risk factors associated with central lymph node metastasis (CLNM) in individuals with papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and to develop a predictive nomogram model, thereby offering clinicians a valuable tool for guiding surgical treatment decisions in PTC management. Methods Clinical and ultrasound data were collected from 348 patients with PTC who underwent surgical treatment at our hospital between July 2022 and November 2023. The cohort was randomly divided into a training group (n = 243) and a validation group (n = 105 cases). Independent risk factors for CLNM were identified using multivariate logistic regression analysis, which was subsequently used to construct a predictive nomogram. The performance of the model was internally validated, and its predictive accuracy was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), and calibration curves. Results Among the 348 patients, CLNM was observed in 115 (47.33%) patients in the training group and 48 (45.71%) patients in the validation group. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that male sex, age under 55 years, nodular anteroposterior diameter of ≥1 cm, BRAF-V600E gene mutation, and tumor capsule invasion were independent risk factors for CLNM in PTC ( P < 0.05). The constructed nomogram demonstrated strong predictive capability, with areas under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.84 (95% CI, 0.78–0.89) for the training group and 0.85 (95% CI, 0.78–0.93) for the validation group. Conclusion The nomogram constructed based on ultrasound and BRAF-V600E gene mutation status is a reliable predictive tool for CLNM in patients with PTC, potentially aiding clinicians in the formulation of personalized surgical treatment strategies.
Impact of controlled stepwise reperfusion during primary percutaneous coronary intervention on patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Chen Tao , Liu Ting-Ting , Bai Wen-Lou , Qi Qi , Yin Hong-Shan , Wang Tao , Jiang Zhi-An 
Published: February 2025

Objective: The aim of this study is to examine the impact of controlled stepwise reperfusion by modulating pre-dilation balloon pressure during primary percutaneous coronary interventions (PPCI) in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Methods: Consecutive STEMI patients requiring PPCI with thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow grades 0 or 1, were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group. For the control group, the pre-dilation balloon was removed immediately after achieving antegrade perfusion beyond the lesion. The experimental group underwent stepwise reperfusion, with the balloon pressure being gradually reduced. Baseline data, intra/post-procedural PPCI data, 3-month left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) were documented and compared between the two groups. Results: The control group experienced more severe symptoms during the procedure ( p = 0.034), higher post-procedural corrected TIMI frame counts ( p = 0.047), more significant hemodynamic changes ( p = 0.031), and increased rates of ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation ( p = 0.035). Additionally, they had a higher total number of arrhythmias ( p = 0.017), a lower 90-min ST segment resolution rate ( p = 0.045), and elevated cTNI levels one week after the procedure ( p = 0.047). Three months later, the control group demonstrated a lower LVEF compared to the experimental group ( p = 0.048) and a trend towards more drug-treated arrhythmias ( p = 0.073). No differences were observed in other statistical results. Conclusion: In patients with STEMI undergoing PPCI, controlled stepwise reperfusion by adjusting the pre-dilation balloon pressure effectively reduces myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, improves myocardial perfusion, and supports the recovery of cardiac function.
Seeking help for menstrual pain during adolescence: A mixed-methods retrospective survey of treatment experiences and preferences
Authors: Wall Kayla M , Erlandson Marta C , Gagnon Michelle M 
Published: February 2025

Background: Menstrual pain can significantly impact adolescents’ well-being and functioning. Despite the prevalence of adolescent menstrual pain, information about adolescents’ experiences seeking treatment is limited. Objectives: We examined retrospective reports of help-seeking in adolescence among menstruators to better understand perceptions and experiences of interacting with the healthcare system due to menstrual pain. Design: This study used an embedded mixed-methods design in which the qualitative and quantitative data were collected concurrently. Methods: Young adults aged 18–25 who experienced menstrual pain in adolescence completed an online, mixed-methods survey of help-seeking experiences. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Across participants ( N = 590, Mage = 21.78 years), 41% sought treatment for menstrual pain in adolescence and of these 43% found the treatments they were offered ineffective. Three themes were generated related to why treatment was perceived as unsuitable: “Side effects and risks of pharmacological treatment,” “treatment not tailored to the individual,” and “treatment seen as a band-aid solution.” Participants perceived the treatment options as limited and likely not addressing the underlying cause of their pain. Four themes were generated related to perceived improvements to treatment seeking. Participants recommended that healthcare providers: “Go beyond contraceptives,” “share and demonstrate expertise,” “investigate menstrual pain,” and “listen and do not dismiss.” Participants reported that having more information, feeling validated, and understanding treatment recommendations would improve their experience. Conclusion: Participants perceived that their menstrual pain-related treatment needs were unmet in adolescence, despite being offered treatments that align with treatment guidelines for adolescent menstrual pain. Findings suggest that improving explanations about treatment provided to youth, along with improving communication and menstrual education, may lead to more optimal help-seeking experiences among adolescents.
Biochemical properties of different Algerian bee pollen samples
Authors: Bedjih Farida , Ouchemoukh Salim , Amessis-Ouchemoukh Nadia , Otmani Amar , Zaidi Hicham , Kara Yakup , Inan Cihan , Özkan İkra , Kolaylı Sevgi 
Published: February 2025

Background Bee pollen is a hive derived product formed from the agglomeration of flower pollen, nectar and bee saliva. It's hailed for its potential health benefits such as antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect. Objective The present work aims to assess the Algerian bee pollen quality by highlighting their phenolic composition, their antioxidant, antimicrobial, enzymatic and antiviral activities, in addition to wound healing and Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) protection effect. Methods In this study, fourteen Algerian bee pollen 70% ethanol extracts samples were analyzed to determine their phenolic profils and biological activities. Thus, Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with Ultraviolet Detection RP-HPLC-UV is done, antioxidant, antibacterial, enzymatic, wound healing, DNA protection and anti-Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (anti- HSV-1) tests are carried out. Results The samples showed good antioxidant activity, variation in phenolic composition, selective antibacterial activity against Gram negative bacteria strains (Escherichia coli “E.coli”, Salmonella typhimurium and Yersinia pestis), inhibition to acetylcholinesterase and α-glucosidase and activation of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD). The samples P4, P7, P8 and P14 show high wound healing potential while P6 and P10 have DNA protection effect. Only P7 have anti-HSV-1 activity. Conclusion The different biological activities varied according to the phytochemical composition of each sample and not according to the harvest region. That is confirmed by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and different correlations relationships between activities and bioactive compounds where it can be seen that the samples were grouped according to their composition and not by the region of the harvest.