bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A bidirectional Mendelian randomisation study of the association between gut microbiota and malignant non-melanoma skin cancer
Authors: Hua Xiaxinqiu , Lin Xingong , Guo Xiumei , Zhou Xianying , Chen Pengsheng , Xie Rongrong , Yao Wanting , Huang Yanyan , Liu Huiyong , Zheng Feng , Wang Chaoyang
Published: April 2024

Gut microbiota are suggested to be associated with a variety of cancers.However, the correlation between gut microbiota and the development of malignant non-melanoma skin cancer (MNMSC) remains unknown. Thus, this study employed a bidirectional Mendelian randomisation (MR) method to investigate the potentially causal association between gut microbiota and MNMSC. Here the detailed genetic data on the gut microbiota available from the MiBioGen consortium and the Dutch Microbiota Project were analysed, as well as the MNMSC data from the UK Biobank.Several sophisticated statistical methods involving inverse variance weighting, weighted median estimator, MR Egger, and simple and weighted mode-based estimator models were utilised to assess the potential association between gut microbiota and MNMSC. Reverse MR and sensitivity analyses were also performed. Eight gut microbiota were identified as potentially causally related to MNMSC. Genera Holdemanella (odds ratio [OR]=0.99, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.99–1.00, 4.5×10-3), Ruminococcaceae UCG014 (OR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.99–1.00, P=1.3×10-2), and Sutterella (OR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.99–1.00, P=4.2×10-2), Bifidobacterium adolescentis (OR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.99–1.00, P=8.8×10-3), Bacteroides dorei (OR=1.00, 95% CI: 0.99–1.00, P=9.9×10-3), and the family Veillonellaceae (OR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.99–1.00,P=3.8×10-4) were negatively correlated with MNMSC. Clostridia (OR=1.01, 95% CI: 1.00–1.02, P=2.1×10-3) and Clostridiales (OR=1.01, 95% CI: 1.00–1.02, P=2.1×10-3) were positively associated with MNMSC. The inverse association between MNMSC and Veillonellaceae was more pronounced following Bonferroni correction. No causal relationship was determined between MNMSC and any of these eight gut microbiota by reverse MR analysis. This study suggests that specific gut microbiota have potential causal effects on MNMSC. This study indicates that certain gut microbiota may have a causal effect on MNMSC. Thus, gut microbiota modulation may be a potential means to prevent MNMSC.
Distribution characteristics and diagnostic value of TMAO and its precursors in HFpEF and HFrEF
Authors: Li Qing , Song Yulong , Wang Xianliang , Mao Jingyuan , Zhao Zhiqiang
Published: April 2024

Background
The diagnosis of HFpEF is currently challenging due to the lack of specific biomarkers. This study aimed to investigate the distribution characteristics of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and its precursors in patients with heart failure with preserved and reduced ejection fraction (HFpEF and HFrEF).
Methods
TMAO, TMA, choline, betaine, and L-carnitine were detected in the plasma of 32 patients with HFpEF, 34 patients with HFrEF and 40 patients without HF.
Results
TMAO and its precursors were found to be elevated both in patients with HFpEF and HFrEF (P < 0.05). The ROC analysis revealed that TMAO and its precursors were more sensitive in diagnosing HFpEF than HFrEF (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
TMAO and its precursors are commonly elevated in patients with HFpEF and HFrEF. The ROC analysis suggests that the combination of TMAO with TMA, choline, and L-carnitine has the potential to be used as biomarkers for assisting in the diagnosis of HFpEF.
Simulation analysis of the evolution law of creep rupture crack extension in X-fractured rock body
Authors: zhao na , wei shuai , sun laigui , wang jingyi
Published: April 2024

Creep is the macroscopic manifestation of the process of generation, expansion, and penetration of microscopic cracks in a rock body. In this study, the GDEM continuous–discontinuous numerical simulation software was used to model a rock body containing X-type fissures for the purposes of exploring creep crack expansion and rupture in the rock body, analyzing the effects of various factors on X-type fissures in the rock body under the rule of change of the creep curve, and assessing the influences of the intersection angle of the fissure and other factors on the non-parallel fissure rock body on the creep rupture process. The results show that an X-type fissure rock body exhibits a mixed tensile–shear damage mode, with tensile damage being the main type of damage. In the isotropic creep stage of a rock body with X-type fissures, the steady-state creep rate initially increases and then decreases as the sub-fissure length increases, with the change of the fissure angle of the creep rate of the w-type; the sub-fissure length of h is 14mm, the rock body is the first to enter into the accelerated creep stage, for the different fissure intersection angle of the rock body For the rock mass with different fracture angles, the time sequence of entering the accelerated creep stage is consistent with the creep rate; when the fracture intersection angle is 45°, and the sub-fracture length is 12mm, the rock mass has the largest degree of fragmentation, which has a significant impact on the creep damage; after using a single variable processing, it is found that the fracture intersection angle, the sub-fracture length and other factors compared to the fracture intersection angle has a greater impact on the creep damage of the X-type fissure rock mass. This paper can provide theoretical basis and reference for the study of rock engineering creep damage law and mechanical properties of X-type rift rock body.
Unraveling New Therapeutic Targets in Ankylosing Spondylitis: Multi-Omics Mendelian Randomization on Immune Cells, Metabolites, and Inflammation Proteins
Authors: Du Kai , Li Ao , Zhang Chen-Yu , Guo Ren , Li Shu-Ming
Published: April 2024

Objective: To identify novel immunological, metabolic, and inflammatory determinants of Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) using Mendelian Randomization (MR), offering new insights into its pathogenesis and potential therapeutic interventions.
Methods: Employing a bidirectional, secondary validation two-sample MR (TSMR), this study investigated causal associations among 1,400 serum metabolites, 731 immune cell traits, and 91 circulating inflammatory proteins with AS. Instrumental variables (IVs) were identified using PLINK for minimal linkage disequilibrium, applying strict significance thresholds. Various MR methodologies, including Inverse Variance Weighted (IVW), Weighted Median, and MR-Egger, were applied to validate causal links. Sensitivity analyses, incorporating heterogeneity and pleiotropy tests, were performed to evaluate the robustness of the results. The False Discovery Rate (FDR) correction was applied to adjust for multiple comparisons, while the MR Steiger directionality test and bidirectional MR analysis validated the causation direction. Secondary validation with data from diverse sources was undertaken to confirm the reliability of the findings.
Results: After FDR correction, associations were identified between AS etiology and 9 immune cell traits, 2 serum metabolites, and 2 inflammatory proteins. Notably, the presence of CX3CR1 on monocytes and the absolute count (AC) of CD62L- CD86+ myeloid Dendritic Cells (DCs) were associated with an increased risk of AS. In contrast, expression of HLA DR on DCs, including myeloid and plasmacytoid DCs, and on CD14- CD16- monocytes, along with CD64 expression across various monocyte subsets (monocytes, CD14+ CD16+, and CD14+ CD16-), correlated with a decreased risk of AS development. Serum metabolites, specifically levels of Hexadecanedioate (C16-DC) and Bilirubin (E, Z or Z, E), were also linked to a reduced risk of AS. Regarding inflammatory factors, Interleukin-6 levels were inversely associated with AS morbidity, whereas TNF-beta levels were positively correlated with higher AS morbidity. Neither bidirectional MR nor MR Steiger tests provided evidence supporting reverse causation.
Conclusion: This study sheds light on the complex interactions between immune cells traits, metabolites, and inflammatory proteins in AS, offering new insights into its pathophysiology. The findings underscore the importance of the immune-metabolic-inflammation network in AS, suggesting novel biomarkers for diagnosis and targets for therapy.
Efficacy of intravenous tenecteplase bridge thrombectomy for recurrent ischemic stroke within 3 months: A case report and review
Authors: Liu Cuicui , Liu Junyan , Ren Huiling , Xu Yuzhu
Published: April 2024

Background According to previous guidelines, patients who had a previous stroke within 3 months were excluded from the intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) protocol. Some studies have shown that IVT with alteplase (rt-PA) may be effective and safe in this group, but there is a lack of evidence supporting the use of tenecteplase (TNK).
Case presentation An 80-year-old male admitted for acute ischemic stroke(IS)presented with consciousness and vomiting for 2 hours, who had experienced IS in the vertebrobasilar territory forty-eight days prior, treated by IVT with TNK as a bridging therapy before thrombectomy and had an excellent outcome in the 8 weeks follow up.
Conclusions Patients with recurrent stroke within 3 months may also benefit from IVT combined with TNK alone or as a bridging therapy before thrombectomy. Large-scale evidence-based clinical trials are indeed to re-examine the potential use of TNK in RIS.
A method for temperature sensor selection and model selection for machine tool thermal error modelling using ANFIS and ANN
Authors: Ariaga Nemwel , Longstaff Andrew , Fletcher Simon
Published: April 2024

Thermal errors account for a significant part of the dimensional errors of components produced by precision machine tools. These errors are commonly compensated using predictions from temperature-based empirical models. The accuracy and robustness of these predictions are affected by the locations of temperature sensors used to obtain the model’s input data. Methods for sensor selection found in literature are often difficult to replicate and automate because they require tuning of several hyperparameters.
This work presents a sensor and model selection approach that uses Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) and QR-pivoting to select a subset of sensors that have been preinstalled in the machine tool as possible model inputs. These sensors are then sorted according to their correlation with the thermally error being modelled. The final set of inputs and thermal error model structure is chosen using Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) to limit model overfitting. The approach is tested on modelling of Y-axis thermal errors of machining data from different air-cutting heating cycles performed using different spindle speeds and feed rates using Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models. The accuracy of these models was compared to that of models trained using inputs selected by conventional approaches: the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), fuzzy c-means clustering (FCM), and principal component regression (PCR). The presented approach had better or comparable results to the conventional approaches while using fewer inputs. The presented approach is also well suited for automation compared to conventional approaches that require expert input.
Securing China's Rice Harvest: Unveiling Dominant Factors in Production Using Multi- Source Data and Hybrid Machine Learning Models
Authors: Mokhtar Ali , He Hongming , Nabil Mohsen , Kouadri Saber , Salem Ali , Elbeltagi Ahmed
Published: April 2024

Ensuring the security of China's rice harvest is imperative for sustainable food production. This study addresses this critical need by employing a comprehensive approach that integrates multi-source data, including climate, remote sensing, soil properties and statistical information. The research evaluates various single and hybrid machine learning models to predict rice production across China, particularly focusing on the main rice cultivation areas. The investigation identifies the hybrid models have performed better than single models, the best scenario was recorded in scenarios 8 (soil variables + SA) and 11 (All variables) based RF-XGB by decreasing the RMSE by 38% and 31% respectively in comparison with the single model (RF). Moreover, the soil properties contribute as the predominant factors influencing rice production, exerting an 87% and 53% impact in east and southeast China, respectively. Additionally, the study explores the implications of temperature and precipitation changes on rice production. Notably, it observes a yearly increase of 0.16°C and 0.19°C in maximum and minimum temperatures, coupled with a 20 mm/year decrease in precipitation. These climatic shifts contribute to a 2.2% annual reduction in rice production on average in southeast China. This research provides valuable insights into the dynamic interplay of environmental factors affecting China's rice yield, informing strategic measures to enhance food security in the face of evolving climatic conditions.
Combined Inhibition of PI3K and STAT3 Signaling is Effective in Bladder Cancer Treatment
Authors: Li Yang , Peng Weidong , Zhang Haojie , Yin Mingwei , Kong Dejie , Kang Liping , Teng Xinkun , Wang Jingjing , Chu Zhimin , Sun Yating , Long Pengpeng , Cui Chengying , Lyu Bin , Zhang Jinzhi , Xiao Han , Wu Mingqing , Wang Yongqiang
Published: April 2024

Bladder cancer is characterized by aberrant activation of the phosphatidylinositol-3-OH kinase (PI3K) signaling, underscoring the significance of directing therapeutic efforts toward the PI3K pathway as a promising strategy. In this study, we discovered that PI3K serves as a potent therapeutic target for bladder cancer through a high-throughput screening of inhibitory molecules. The PI3K inhibitor demonstrated a robust anti-tumor efficacy, validated both in vitro and in vivo settings. Nevertheless, the feedback activation of JAK1-STAT3 signaling reinstated cell and organoid survival, leading to resistance against the PI3K inhibitor. Mechanistically, the PI3K inhibitor suppresses PTPN11 expression, a negative regulator of the JAK-STAT pathway, thereby activating STAT3. Conversely, restoration of PTPN11 enhances the sensitivity of cancer cells to the PI3K inhibitor. Simultaneous inhibition of both PI3K and STAT3 with small-molecule inhibitors resulted in sustained tumor regression in patient-derived bladder cancer xenografts. These findings advocate for a combinational therapeutic approach targeting both PI3K and STAT3 pathways to achieve enduring cancer eradication in vitro and in vivo, underscoring their promising therapeutic efficacy for treating bladder cancer.
Sequence-matching adapter trimmers generate consistent quality and assembly metrics for Illumina sequencing of RNA viruses
Authors: Nabakooza Grace , Wagner Darlene D. , Momin Nehalraza , Marine Rachel L. , Weldon William C. , Oberste M. Steven
Published: April 2024

Trimming adapters and low-quality bases from next-generation sequencing (NGS) data is crucial for optimal analysis. We evaluated six trimming programs, implementing five different algorithms, for their effectiveness in trimming adapters and improving quality, contig assembly, and single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) quality and concordance for poliovirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SC2) and norovirus paired data sequenced on Illumina iSeq and MiSeq platforms.
Trimmomatic and BBDuk effectively removed adapters from all datasets, unlike FastP, AdapterRemoval, SeqPurge, and Skewer. All trimmers improved read quality (Q≥30, 87.8−96.1%) compared to raw reads (83.6−93.2%). Traditional sequence-matching (Trimmomatic and AdapterRemoval) and overlapping algorithm (FastP) retained the highest-quality reads. While all trimmers improved the maximum contig length and genome coverage for iSeq and MiSeq viral assemblies, BBDuk-trimmed reads assembled the shortest contigs. SNP concordance was consistently high (>97.7−100%) across trimmers. However, BBDuk-trimmed reads had the lowest quality SNPs. Overall, the two adapter trimmers that implemented the traditional sequence-matching algorithm performed consistently across the viral datasets analyzed. Our findings guide software selection and inform future versatile trimmer development for viral genome analysis.
A novel long intergenic noncoding RNA indispensable for the formation of zygote in pig
Authors: Weng Xiaogang , Yang Xu , zhang Yuting , Yang Yuchuan , Li Jingyu , Zong Ming , Cui Hongdi , Zhang Heng , Gao Zhengling , Kong Qingran , Liu Zhonghua
Published: April 2024

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly being recognized as modulators of mammalian early embryonic development. However, in pig, it is seldom investigated. In this study, lncRNAs were predicted using single-cell RNA-seq data on porcine early embryos from oocyte to early blastocyst. We further identified a novel nuclear long intergenic noncoding RNA (lincRNA),linc-321, which was specifically and highly expressed in 1-cell embryo, and it was indispensable for the formation of zygote and early embryonic development in pig. Its knockdown by locked nucleic acid (LNA)-siRNA could result in developmental arrest at 1-cell stage with failure of pronuclear envelope fusion (PEF). Mechanistically, linc-321 facilitates the recruitment of SUZ12 to the TSS region of MYT1. And this recruitment is instrumental in establishing H3K27me3 modifications, consequently leading to the repression of MYT1 expression. Moreover, the failure of PEF and developmental arrest induced by loss oflinc-321could be rescued by addition oflinc-321with LNA-siRNA targeting site deletion andMYT1knockdown. Thus, as functional lincRNA characterized in pig,linc-321provides the clues for investigating the strictly regulated process of early embryonic development.
Optimal Design of AM Support Structures for EDM Removal from Build Plate
Authors: Bicknell Greg , King Philip , Soares Nicholas , Gong Xi , Manogharan Guha
Published: April 2024

Wire electric discharge machining (wire EDM) is a non-traditional material removal method that is commonly used in additive manufacturing (AM) applications to efficiently remove AM metallic parts from their build-plates. However, a persistent problem in wire EDM of AM parts is wire breakage which leads to longer machining time, challenges in rethreading wire, and wasted material, decreasing efficiency. This is the first reported study on wire EDM strategies to mitigate the two main causes of this issue in AM applications: intermittent workpiece thickness (i.e., support structures) and trapped metal powders. When AM metallic parts are made using a powder bed fusion (PBF) process, pockets of non-fused powder can become trapped in the part and supports. This powder creates a non-uniform cutting path which leads to wire breakage. Additionally, the interrupted cuts and nonuniform support thickness result in interactions between wire and AM support design that is currently not well understood. This study investigates the effects of various AM support structures on EDM wire breakage and overall machining time by understanding the effects of three critical EDM process parameters (voltage, wire feed rate, water flushing rate) on the machinability of 316L SS AM builds. In addition, the effect of heat treatment cycles on wire EDM machinability of AM parts with entrapped powder is investigated. The results of this study show that reducing the wire EDM voltage eliminates wire breaking, and that thicker supports provide steadier cutting conditions for the wire.
LAX1 as a Core Biomarker in Alzheimer's Disease and Periodontitis via the STAT signaling pathway
Authors: Guo Han , Guo Tianyuan , Wang Xue , Bao Yang , Xue Fang , Cheng Dongmei
Published: April 2024

Background: Periodontitis, an inflammatory condition affecting gums and tooth-supporting tissues, is linked to systemic health problems like cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder causing cognitive decline. The etiology of both conditions remains unclear.
Methods: Download Alzheimer's datasets GSE138260 and GSE203206, and periodontitis datasets GSE53849 and GSE173078 from GEO. Utilize Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis to obtain Important modules. Conduct Gene Set Enrichment Analysis to explore biological processes and pathways associated with differentially expressed genes. Apply integrated bioinformatics methods to perform CIBERSORT analysis on merged periodontitis datasets and linear support vector regression for immune cell subtype deconvolution. Validate LAX1's role in periodontitis and Alzheimer's disease through cell experiments using LAX1 overexpression plasmids and silencing siRNA. Assess expression changes in LAX1-related signaling pathways, inflammatory molecules, and apoptosis proteins via western blotting (WB).
Results: GSEA results indicate enrichment of differentially expressed genes in apoptosis, neuroregulation, inflammation, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, and Jak-STAT signaling pathways. Venn diagram identifies core gene LAX1. Heatmap shows high expression of LAX1 in Alzheimer's and periodontitis samples. WB reveals LAX1 positively correlates with STAT pathway, activating it. Compared to Control group (CON), Glial cells from Alzheimer's disease mice (AD group) and periodontitis groups exhibit elevated IL-1, TNF-α, and IL-6, exacerbating inflammation with increased LAX1 expression. Conversely, inflammation decreases. This suggests LAX1 promotes inflammation. Compared to CON, AD and groups show downregulation of P53, Caspase-3, and FAS. Upregulation of LAX1 leads to increased expression of P53, Caspase-3, and FAS, promoting apoptosis. Conversely, apoptosis slows down. These results indicate LAX1 promotes apoptosis.
Conclusion: LAX1 may serve as a core biomarker in Alzheimer's disease and periodontitis. LAX1 activates the STAT signaling pathway, promoting inflammatory responses and apoptosis.
Neuroprotective Mechanisms and Metabolomics Analysis of Jiedu Yizhi Formula in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Li Yunqiang , Yan Jing , Cui Tingting , Chen Dongxue , Zhu Xiaoting , Wang Jie , Zhang Xinyue , Wang Qi , Feng Lina , Zhang Pengqi , Fang Limei , Li Mingquan
Published: April 2024

Aim of the study：We studied the metabolites in the brain tissue of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) transgenic mice to investigate how Jiedu Yizhi Formula (JDYZF) protects against AD and to validate the scientific basis of the prescription using the "Marrow deficiency and toxin damage" theory.
Materials and methods: The effect of JDYZF treatment on cognitive dysfunction was evaluated using the Morris water maze test in the APP/PS1 transgenic mouse model. Furthermore, the impact of JDYZF on typical AD pathology was assessed through Hematoxylin-eosin staining. Additionally, the protective effect of JDYZF on AD neurons was studied using Nissl staining. Moreover, potential mechanisms of action were analyzed through LC-MS/MS-based untargeted metabolomics of mouse brain tissue.
Results: The administration of JDYZF significantly ameliorated memory deficits and mitigated typical histopathological changes in AD mice. Upon comparison of the differential metabolites between the model control group and the blank control group with those between the JDYZF group and the model control group, 17 endogenous metabolites, including 1-methyluric acid, were found to be significantly different. These differential metabolites were primarily involved in the pathways of caffeine metabolism and glycerophospholipid metabolism.
Conclusion: In this study, we have effectively illustrated the neuroprotective effect of JDYZF on AD through experimentation with the APP/PS1 transgenic mouse model. The findings indicate that the utilization of JDYZF can ameliorate the metabolic disruptions in brain tissue and serve as a viable therapeutic intervention for AD.
Effects of inhalation of the hydrogen-rich gas before sleep on fatigue recovery in healthy adults
Authors: Li Qian , Li Yiting , Liu Haochong , Wang Yubo , Bao Dapeng , Liu Haoyang , Zhou Junhong
Published: April 2024

Our objective was to examine if inhalation of hydrogen-rich gas before sleep can help alleviate fatigue and improve physical performance after waking up in healthy adults. We included 100 healthy adults with no sleep disorders. All participants completed two study visits with a 7-day break. On each of the two, they randomly inhaled either hydrogen-rich (HS) or control gas (CS) for 20 minutes. Each participant completed the assessment of fatigue (e.g., quick recovery, Karolinska Sleepiness scale (KSS)) and functional performance (e.g., Countermovement jump (CMJ), Maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and muscle force perception) before inhaling gas and after waking up. No significant difference in the percent change of HRV paraments (i.e., LF/HF, RMSSD, SDNN, LF average, HF average, VLF average) and KSS scale from night to morning were observed between CS and HS (p > 0.67). Similarly, no significant difference in the percent change of CMJ (p = 0.12, Z = 1.55) was observed between CS and HS. Compared to CS, the percent change of MVIC (F = 4.95, p = 0.03, η²=0.03) and muscle force perception (p = 0.01, Z=-2.50) were significantly lower in HS. Inhaling hydrogen-rich gas before sleep can accelerate the recovery of muscle strength and muscle proprioception on the next day in healthy adults.
Self-assembled rectorite films with remarkable mechanical performance: preparation, structural characterization and properties
Authors: Atanasova Maria , Focke Walter W. , Loots Theodor
Published: April 2024

Cohesive flexible rectorite clay films with good mechanical performance were prepared by a simple casting method through self-assembly of exfoliated natural clay from aqueous dispersions. The multi-layered microstructure of the films consisted of continuous layers of aligned clay platelets parallel to the casting surface. Layers overlap randomly in lateral direction (plane) and join vertically in irregular manner by edge to face cross-linkages (bridging) to form coherent multi-layered nanostructured films with platelet-void microstructure. The films with highest mechanical properties had thickness below 30 µm. Overall films from rectorite clay with monovalent interlayer content exibited a higher experimental tensile strengths ranging up to 44 MPa and Young’s modulus up to 56 GPa. The corresponding experimental values for films with divalent interlayer cations were 23 MPa for strength and 25 GPa for modulus. The highest experimental values for strength and modulus for neat Na-Ca-rectorite films were 25 MPa and 50 GPa respectively. The mechanical property values of the rectorite-based clay films compare favourably with values featured by polymer films typically used for packaging applications.
Knockdown of Integrin α3 (ITGA3)-mediated proliferation and invasive activity by regulating the expression of N-cadherin and cyclin D1 in glioblastoma cells
Authors: Fan Wen-Chieh , Tzou Rong-Dar , Lee Kuan-Ting , Huang Tzuu-Yuan , Rau Kun-Ming , Hsu Yi-Chiang , Tsai Tai-Hsin
Published: April 2024

The cell membrane protein Integrin α3 (ITGA3) acts as a crucial cell surface adhesion molecule and has emerged as a potential molecular marker across various cancers. Our study aimed to explore the biological role of ITGA3 in human Glioblastoma (GBM), an area yet to be thoroughly investigated. Initially, we assessed ITGA3 expression in glioma TMA tissue samples through immunohistochemistry analysis. Subsequently, we employed short interfering RNA (siRNA) to silence ITGA3 expression in different GBM cell lines and examined its impact on proliferation, invasion, adhesion, and migration assays. Furthermore, we conducted western blot analyses to gauge the expression levels of ITGA3, N-cadherin, and Cyclin D1 signaling molecules in glioma cells. Our findings revealed a significant correlation between elevated ITGA3 expression and poorer survival rates in patients with astrocytoma and glioma compared to those with low ITGA3 expression. Notably, silencing ITGA3 curbed cell proliferation and hindered cell mobility in glioma, potentially by impeding N-cadherin and Cyclin D1 signaling pathways. Collectively, our results pinpoint ITGA3 as an oncogenic biomarker, with its knockdown showcasing a potential to restrain the metastatic capabilities of GBM cells.
Distributed Hybrid Quantum-Classical Performance Prediction for Hyperparameter Optimization
Authors: Wulff Eric , Amboage Juan Pablo Garcia , Aach Marcel , Gislason Thorsteinn Eli , Ingolfsson Thorsteinn Kristinn , Ingolfsson Tomas Kristinn , Pasetto Edoardo , Delilbasic Amer , Riedel Morris , Sarma Rakesh , Girone Maria , Lintermann Andreas
Published: April 2024

Hyperparameter Optimization of neural networks is a computationally expensive procedure, which requires a large number of different model configurations to be trained. To reduce such costs, this work presents a distributed, hybrid workflow, that runs the training of the neural networks on multiple Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) on a classical supercomputer, while predicting the configurations' performance with Quantum Support Vector Regression on a Quantum Annealer (QA). The workflow is shown to run on up to 50 GPUs and a QA at the same time, completely automating the communication between the classical and the quantum system. The approach is evaluated extensively on several benchmarking datasets from the Computer Vision, High Energy Physics, and Natural Language Processing domains. Results show that resource savings of up to approximately 9% can be achieved while obtaining similar, and in some cases even better, accuracy, highlighting the potential of hybrid quantum-classical machine learning algorithms. The workflow code is made available open-source to foster adoption in the community.
How does entrepreneurial curiosity lead to Chinese undergraduates’ new venture idea: the mediation of promotion focus and the moderation of entrepreneurial education
Authors: Li Caiyun , Hu Rui
Published: April 2024

Background
New venture idea is an “imagined future venture”, it’s more valuable and practical than entrepreneurial opportunity which has been widely studied before for undergraduates’ entrepreneurship. Based on the regulatory focus theory, this study aims to explore how two different types of entrepreneurial curiosity (I-type entrepreneurial curiosity and D-type entrepreneurial curiosity) affect the undergraduates’ new venture idea through promotion focus, as well as the moderating effect of entrepreneurial education.
Methods
With a sample of 650 undergraduates in Chinese universities through questionnaire star platform, this study used a PLS-SEM to test hypotheses.
Results
The results indicated that promotion focus played a full mediating effect between D-type entrepreneurial curiosity and new venture idea, and a partial mediating effect between I-type entrepreneurial curiosity and new venture idea. In addition, entrepreneurial education moderated those mediating effects.
Conclusions
The results highlighted the importance of stimulating undergraduates’ entrepreneurial curiosity so as to form more new venture ideas. Also, it suggested that universities need to improve undergraduates’ promotion focus by optimizing the teaching strategies and contexts of entrepreneurial education, as well as create a good atmosphere of entrepreneurial support.
Effectiveness of Thought Stopping in Treating Obsessive-Compulsive and Compulsive
Authors: Aldahadha Basim , Shdouh Ala , Alnawiseh Mubin
Published: April 2024

The present study aimed to identify the effectiveness of a counseling program based on thought stopping among female students suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and compulsive hoarding disorder (CHD). The sample consisted of 40 students distributed equally and randomly to the treatment group and waiting list group. OCD and CHD scales and a program based on cognitive behavioral therapy in thought stopping were applied. The results showed that there were significant differences between the treatment and waiting list groups in OCD and CHD in favor of the treatment group on the post measurements. The results also showed the effectiveness of the program in thought stopping on the post measurements and at follow-up a month after program termination. There is the effectiveness of thought-stopping in alleviating the symptoms of OCD and HCD. Attention should be given to early intervention of thought-stopping to reduce CHD by raising awareness of the roles of nurturing and the environment in which this disorder grows and how to prevent it.
Guidance of Hope: The Link of Social Support Influences the Career Educational Response of Senior High School Students
Authors: Ling Hairong , Fang Yanling , Yu Qi , Wu Jing , Song Chunze
Published: April 2024

Background: This research aims to investigate the relationships between social support, hope, career exploration, career adaptability, and reactions to career education among Chinese high school students. The study sample consists of 418 Chinese high school students. Various instruments were utilized to assess the variables, including the Child and Adolescent Social Support Scale, the Hope Scale, the High School Students' Career Exploration Scale, the Career Adapt-Ability Scale-Short Form, and the Reactions to Career Education Scale.
Methods: The study utilized a sample of 418 Chinese high school students to examine the relationships between social support, hope, career exploration, career adaptability, and reactions to career education. The variables were assessed using the instruments. Smart-PLS and SPSS analyses were employed to determine the correlations among the variables.
Results: The analysis revealed a positive correlation between social support, hope, career exploration, career adaptability, and reactions to career education among Chinese high school students. Additionally, evidence suggests that hope, career exploration, and career adaptability act as mediators, indicating the presence of a multi-mediation model.
Conclusions: The findings of this research contribute to the understanding of the relationships between social support, hope, career exploration, career adaptability, and reactions to career education among Chinese high school students. These findings support the development of career education strategies for Chinese senior high schools and provide a basis for assessing the effectiveness of such programs.
RETRACTED: Online review–driven Product Recommendation Ranking Considering Interactions Among Features and Consumers’ Psychology
Authors: Liu Yuheng , Li Yanlai , Chin Kwai-Sang
Published: April 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Effects of the S1P/S1PR1 signaling pathway on high glucose-induced NRK-52E epithelial- mesenchymal transdifferentiation via regulation of ROS/NLRP3
Authors: Tian Jihua , Chen Jingshu , Sun Qiuyue , Huang Taiping , Xu Huanyu , Wang Jing , Ma Zhijie
Published: April 2024

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) ranks as the predominant complication among diabetics, culminating in renal fibrosis. A variety of processes play a role in its pathophysiology, with the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in renal tubular cells being intimately linked to renal fibrosis. Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) functions via G protein-coupled receptors and is involved in multiple signal transmission pathways. Research has demonstrated that the S1P/S1PR pathway controls fibrosis and inflammation. However, the interaction between S1P/S1PR and the pathophysiology of EMT remains ambiguous. The objective of this research was to explore the function of the S1P/S1PR pathway in EMT triggered by high glucose (HG) and how it operates. Employing varied glucose levels for cell treatment, we discovered that HG markedly increased the S1P and EMT marker levels in renal tubular epithelial cells. In vitro, inhibition of S1P1 by FTY720 resulted in a marked decrease in renal tissue EMT. Activation of oxidative stress (OS) can lead to diabetes, with the NLRP3 inflammasome contributing to the inflammation linked to diabetes. Research indicates that blocking reactive oxygen species (ROS) can prevent the NLRP3 inflammasome produced. This investigation examined S1P expression, revealing that blocking S1PR1 led to a reduction in both ROS and NLRP3 inflammasome metrics, it indicates the role of S1P in initiating and advancing HG-induced EMT. The combination of S1P/S1PR1 suppresses HG-induced EMT through the modulation of the ROS/NLRP3 pathway.
Dietary Restriction Promote Sperm Remodeling in Aged Roosters Based on Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: liang wenjie , he yuehua , zhu tingqi , zhang binbin , liu shuangxing , guo haishan , liu pingquan , liu huayuan , liu donghua , kang xiangtao , sun guirong , li wenting
Published: April 2024

Background:
The breeder rooster has played an important role in poultry production by providing high-quality semen. In general, the fertility peaks of breeder roosters between 30 and 40 weeks of age and declines rapidly from 45 to 55 weeks of age. The exploration of improving fertility in aging roosters would help to extend the useful life of roosters. At present, researchers have made some progress, but improving fertility in aging roosters has become an important issue that needs to be addressed.
Methods:
To identify the genes related to promoting sperm remodeling in aged Houdan roosters, we combined changes in testis and semen quality with transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) to analyze the synchrony of semen quality and testis development. In this study, 350-day-old Houdan breeder roosters were selected for RNA-seq analysis in testis tissues from induced molting roosters (D group) and non-induced molting roosters (47DG group). All analyses of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and functional enrichment were performed. Finally, we selected six DEGs to verify the accuracy of the sequencing by qPCR.
Results:
Sperm motility, sperm density, and testis weight were significantly increased in roosters in the fasted-induced molting group compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Further RNA-seq analysis of the testis between the D group and 47DG group identified 61 DEGs, with 21 up-regulated and 40 down-regulated. Functional enrichment analysis showed that the DEGs were primarily enriched in the cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, Wnt signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, TGF-β signaling pathway, and focal adhesion pathway. The qRT-PCR results showed that the expression trend of these genes was consistent with the sequencing results. WNT5A, FGFR3, AGTR2, TGFβ2, ROMO1, and SLC26A7 may play a role in testis development and spermatogenesis. This study provides fundamental data to enhance the reproductive value of aging roosters.
Comparison of side effects of short-acting inhaled bronchodilators in patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Najeeb Muhammad , AlBardan Housam
Published: April 2024

Background: Excessive use of short-acting inhaled bronchodilators indicates poor asthma control and adverse health outcomes. The research aims to study the side effects of short-acting inhaled bronchodilators in patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Study design:Retrospective, cross-sectional observational study, location. Study: Patients admitted to the Internal Thoracic Division, Damascus Hospital (Al-Mujtahid Hospital), in Damascus, Syria.
Duration of the study: 4 years between 2020 and 2024.
Inclusion criteria: All patients with asthma and obstructive pulmonary disease admitted to the Internal Thoracic Division, Damascus Hospital (Al-Mujtahid Hospital) whose ages range from 18 to 80 years.
Exclusion criteria: Patients with other chronic lung diseases (cancers, tuberculosis), patients taking long-acting bronchodilators, patients taking systemic bronchodilators, patients with cachexia.
Data analysis was performed using SPSS-28 software.
Results: Patients’ ages ranged from 18 to 18 years. -80 years, and the most common age group is 60-80 years, and 61% of patients are male. Headaches, nervous tension, lack of appetite, pharyngeal pain, stomach pain, and muscle spasms were most common among patients treated with short-acting beta-2 analogues, with rates of 82.6% and 75%. 66.6%, 82.6%, and 80%, respectively, while hand tremors, allergic reaction, vomiting, runny nose, agitation, and contractile convulsions were more common in patients treated with short-acting antimuscarinics, with rates of 100%, 66.7%, 100%, 100%, 100%, 100%, respectively.
Conclusion: The use of short-acting bronchodilators was accompanied by a group of side effects, as headache and pharyngeal pain were common in all types, while stomach pain, muscle spasms, nervous tension, and lack of appetite were common in those who used to short-act beta agonists, and allergic reaction, hand tremors, and vomiting. Rhinorrhea, irritability, and constriction were more common among patients using short-acting antimuscarinics, and the occurrence of symptoms was associated with increasing dose and duration of use.
Måleegenskaper ved den norske versjonen av Swanson, Nolan og Pelham vurderingsskala for lærere og foreldre - versjon IV (SNAP-IV)
Authors: Kornør Hege , Bøe Tormod
Published: April 2024

Beskrivelse: SNAP-IV er et spørreskjema som skal måle ADHD-symptomer og atferdsproblemer hos barn i skolealder. Det har 90 testledd fordelt på åtte skalaer, og tar under 30 minutter å fylle ut. Den engelskspråklige originalutgaven ble laget av James M. Swanson i 1983. Geir Øgrim sto bak den norske oversettelsen i 2006. Norsk rettighetsinnehaver er Nasjonalt Kompetansesenter for AD/HD, Tourettes syndrom og Narkolepsi, som oppgir at de leverer ut skåringsnøkkel til fagfolk. Det stilles ellers ingen kompetansekrav til bruk, skåring og tolkning av SNAP-IV.
Litteratursøk: Vårt systematiske litteratursøk førte ikke til noen studier som kunne belyse måleegenskapene ved den norske versjonen av SNAP-IV.
Konklusjon: Måleegenskapene ved den norske versjonen av SNAP-IV er ikke dokumentert.
Måleegenskaper ved den norske versjonen av Parenting Stress index, 3. versjon (PSI)
Authors: Kornør Hege , Martinussen Monica
Published: April 2024

Beskrivelse: Parenting Stress Index (PSI) er et spørreskjema som skal gi mål på stress i foreldre-barnrelasjonen. Sju skalaer for foreldreegenskaper og seks skalaer for barneegenskaper angir til sammen det totale stressnivået. I tillegg kommer en skala for livsstress. Målgruppen er foreldre med inntil 12 år gamle barn. Spørreskjemaet tar 20-25 minutter å besvare. Den norske oversettelsen av John A. Rønning er basert på den amerikanske tredjeutgaven av PSI, som ble utviklet av Richard A. Abidin i 1995. Man må ha lisens fra rettighetshaver PAR, Inc. i USA for å kjøpe og bruke PSI. Det er uklart om den norske oversettelsen er tilgjengelig.
Litteratursøk: Vårt systematiske litteratursøk etter dokumentasjon for den norske versjonen av PSI resulterte i 41 treff, hvorav tre oppfylte inklusjonskriteriene. I tillegg inkluderte vi to artikler etter innspill fra eksperter.
Psykometri: De inkluderte publikasjonene rapporterte data fra tre norske studier med til sammen 1096 deltakere. Søket etter dokumentasjon for den svenske og danske versjonen av PSI førte ikke til noen inkluderte publikasjoner. De inkluderte publikasjonene rapporterte gjennomsnittskårer for postpartum kvinner, gruppeforskjeller og indre konsistens (median Cronbachs alfa > 0,9).
Konklusjon: Datagrunnlaget for norske PSI-normer er basert på en populasjon som er for homogen til å være anvendelig for andre enn postpartum kvinner. Forventende gruppeforskjeller antyder god begrepsvaliditet, men dokumentasjonen er ikke tilstrekkelig. Kriterievaliditet er ikke dokumentert. Den norske versjonen av PSI har svært god indre konsistens. Den tilgjengelige dokumentasjonen er ikke tilstrekkelig til å vurdere testens totale anvendelighet. Framtidig forskning med og på PSI bør legge vekt på psykometriske problemstillinger.
Måleegenskaper ved den norske versjonen av Brief Infant-Toddler Social Emotional Assessment – 2. versjon (BITSEA)
Authors: Kornør Hege , Olafsen Kåre Sten
Published: April 2024

Beskrivelse: BITSEA er en screeningversjon av spørreskjemaet ITSEA. Det skal besvares av omsorgspersoner for å identifisere sosiale og følelsesmessige problemer og kompetanse hos småbarn i alderen 12 – 35 måneder. Spørreskjemaet har 42 ledd fordelt på to skalaer, og tar 7-10 minutter å fylle ut. BITSEA kan administreres av pedagoger og helsepersonell med testspesifikk opplæring. Originalversjonen ble utgitt av Margaret J. Briggs-Gowan og Alice S. Carter i 2004. Norske oversettere og rettighetshavere er ukjente.
Litteratursøk: Vårt systematiske litteratursøk identifiserte ingen publikasjoner om den norskeversjonen av BITSEA.
Konklusjon: De psykometriske egenskapene til den norske versjonen av BITSEA er ikke dokumentert. Testen må derfor brukes med stor forsiktighet.
Måleegenskaper ved den norske versjonen av ADHD Rating Scale IV, Skoleversjon (ADHD-RS-IV Skole)
Authors: Kornør Hege , Bøe Tormod
Published: April 2024

Beskrivelse: ADHD-RS-IV Skole er et spørreskjema som skal fylles ut av lærere eller førskolelærere for å fange opp ADHD-symptomer hos barn og ungdom. Spørreskjemaet har 18 ledd med fire svaralternativer. Det tar under 20 minutter å fylle ut. Hovedskalaen og de to delskalaene skåres ved å summere enkeltskårer. Kompetansekrav for bruk av ADHD-RS-IV inkluderer generell opplæring i testbruk, samt yrkesstatus som psykolog, lege, annet helsepersonell med utdanning på mastergradsnivå, spesialpedagog eller pedagog med mastergrad.
Litteratursøk: Vårt systematiske litteratursøk identifiserte tre publikasjoner fra tre norske studier.
Psykometri: Ingen av de inkluderte publikasjonene inneholdt dokumentasjon om normer, validitet eller reliabilitet ved ADHD-RS-IV Skole.
Konklusjon: Måleegenskapene ved den norske versjonen av ADHD-RS-IV Skole er ikke dokumentert.
BALANCE PERFORMANCE IN DUAL TASK IN PATIENTS WITH CERVICAL DISC HERNIATION RELATED CHRONIC NECK PAIN: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
Authors: Yılmaz Hayriye , Özsoy Gülşah , Karakaya Mehmet Gürhan
Published: April 2024

Purpose: The aim of the study was to compare balance performance in dual task between patients with cervical disc herniation (CDH) related chronic neck pain and asymptomatic controls.
Methods: Thirty-two patients with CDH related chronic neck pain and twenty-three age and sexmatched asymptomatic controls participated in this cross-sectional controlled study. The modified clinical test of sensory integration of balance (mCTSIB), athletic single leg test (ASLT), limits of stability (LOS), and fall risk assessment were performed with and without a cognitive task. Dual task interference (DTI) was assessed.
Results: According to our findings, the change in the mCTSIB values (except standing with eyes closed on a firm surface) and fall risk scores was greater in the CDH group compared to the control group (p
THE EFFECTS OF VIRTUAL REALITY TRAINING ON BALANCE AND SPEED-AGILITY IN OBESE CHILDREN: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL
Authors: Tomaç Hayriye , Tüzün Emine Handan , Eker Levent
Published: April 2024

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine the effects of virtual reality training on balance and speed-agility in obese children.
Methods: The study included 34 obese children at the ages of 9-11. Participants were divided into training and control groups using the simple randomization method. The participants in the intervention group (n=17) were taken into virtual reality training for 6 weeks. No treatment was applied on the control group (n=17). Balance was assessed by the Flamingo and Y balance tests. Speed-agility was assessed by the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency-Brief Form-speed-agility sub-test. The physical activity enjoyment levels of the children in intervention group were assessed by the Short Form-Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale.
Results: Before the study, the groups were similar in terms of the investigated variables (p>0.05). Speed-agility scores and Y balance test anterior, posterior-lateral and mixed reaching distances of the children in intervention group significantly increased after the training in comparison to their pre-training results (p