bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The histamine analogue clobenpropit modulates IRF7 phosphorylation and interferon production by targeting CXCR4 in systemic lupus erythematosus models
Authors: Bekaddour Nassima , Smith Nikaïa , Caspar Birgit , Grinberg Severine , Giorgiutti Stephane , Rodeschini Vincent , Dupuy Stephanie , Leboulanger Nicolas , Duffy Darragh , Soulas-Sprauel Pauline , Gies Vincent , Korganow Anne-Sophie , Nisole Sébastien , Herbeuval Jean-Philippe 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by an overactive immune response, particularly involving excessive production of type I interferons. This overproduction is driven by the phosphorylation of IRF7, a crucial factor in interferon gene activation. Current treatments for SLE are often not very effective and can have serious side effects.MethodsOur study introduces clobenpropit, a histamine analogue, as a potential new therapy targeting the CXCR4 receptor to reduce IRF7 phosphorylation and subsequent interferon production. We employed various laboratory techniques to investigate how clobenpropit interacts with CXCR4 and its effects on immune cells from healthy individuals and SLE patients.ResultsClobenpropit binds effectively to CXCR4, significantly inhibiting IRF7 phosphorylation and reducing interferon production. Additionally, clobenpropit lowered levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in a mouse model of lupus, demonstrating efficacy comparable to the standard treatment, prednisolone.DiscussionThese results suggest that clobenpropit could be a promising new treatment for SLE, offering a targeted approach with potential advantages over current therapies.
C3 deficiency promotes pulmonary inflammation in AT1R-induced mouse model for systemic sclerosis
Authors: Yin Junping , Verschoor Admar , Yue Xiaoyang , Goldmann Torsten , Heidecke Harald , Riemekasten Gabriela , Petersen Frank , Yu Xinhua 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionAutoantibody-mediated complement activation plays an essential role in a variety of autoimmune disorders. However, the role of complement in systemic sclerosis (SSc) remains largely unknown. In this study, we aimed to determine the role of complement C3 in the development of a recently described SSc mouse model based on autoimmunity to angiotensin II receptor type 1 (AT1R).MethodsMice were immunized with cell membrane extract isolated from Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells overexpressing AT1R or non-transfected CHO cells as a control. Peripheral blood, dorsal skin and the lung were then collected to evlauate disease characteristics. Apoptotic cells in the lung of mice were detected using the DeadEnd™ Fluorometric TUNEL System.ResultsOur results showed that experimental SSc in this model was featured by the deposition of IgG, but not of complement C3, in the lung. After immunization with AT1R, C3-deficient mice developed more severe pulmonary inflammations than wild type controls, whereas skin inflammation and fibrosis were not different as well as the anti-AT1R ab levels. Further, C3-deficient mice showed an increased rate of pulmonary cell apoptosis as compared to controls. The apoptosis rate correlated with the corresponding degree of lung inflammation.DiscussionTaken together, our findings suggest an anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory role of complement C3 in pulmonary autoimmune inflammation.
Single-cell transcriptomics reveals heterogeneity and prognostic markers of myeloid precursor cells in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: He Guangfeng , Jiang Lai , Zhou Xuancheng , Gu Yuheng , Tang Jingyi , Zhang Qiang , Hu Qingwen , Huang Gang , Zhuang Ziye , Gao Xinrui , Xu Ke , Xiao Yewei 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundAcute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a hematologic tumor with poor prognosis and significant clinical heterogeneity. By integrating transcriptomic data, single-cell RNA sequencing data and independently collected RNA sequencing data this study aims to identify key genes in AML and establish a prognostic assessment model to improve the accuracy of prognostic prediction.Materials and methodsWe analyzed RNA-seq data from AML patients and combined it with single-cell RNA sequencing data to identify genes associated with AML prognosis. Key genes were screened by bioinformatics methods, and a prognostic assessment model was established based on these genes to validate their accuracy.ResultsThe study identified eight key genes significantly associated with AML prognosis: SPATS2L, SPINK2, AREG, CLEC11A, HGF, IRF8, ARHGAP5, and CD34. The prognostic model constructed on the basis of these genes effectively differentiated between high-risk and low-risk patients and revealed differences in immune function and metabolic pathways of AML cells.ConclusionThis study provides a new approach to AML prognostic assessment and reveals the role of key genes in AML. These genes may become new biomarkers and therapeutic targets that can help improve prognostic prediction and personalized treatment of AML.
Case report: Detecting giant cell arteritis in [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9-PET/CT
Authors: Petzinna Simon M. , Küppers Jim , Schemmer Benedikt , Kernder Anna L. , Bauer Claus-Jürgen , von der Emde Leon , Salam Babak , Distler Jörg H. W. , Winklbauer Anja , Essler Markus , Schäfer Valentin S. 
Published: December 2024

ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic utility of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT) in assessing disease activity in a patient experiencing a relapse of giant cell arteritis (GCA).Case presentationA 90-year-old male patient with GCA, diagnosed in 2018, was enrolled. Demographic data, disease history, and laboratory parameters, including soluble VAP-1 (sVAP-1) levels, were recorded. The patient underwent a [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 PET/CT scan. Additional imaging assessments included vascular ultrasound of the superficial temporal arteries, their branches, and the facial, axillary, subclavian, carotid, and vertebral arteries, along with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the aorta.The patient’s sVAP-1 level was 284 ng/ml compared to 123 ng/ml in the control group (SD ± 55). The [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 PET/CT scan revealed increased tracer uptake (SUVmax) in the subclavian artery (2.5), aortic arch (2.9), and heart (2.9). Notably, the increased uptake in the descending aorta (3.5) abruptly diminished to 2.2 when passing the diaphragm, with no changes in vessel caliber observed in CT. The injection of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 was well tolerated. Aortic MRI revealed no signs of inflammatory involvement.ConclusionsThis study introduces the first application of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 PET/CT in a patient with GCA experiencing a relapse, revealing enhanced tracer uptake in the subclavian artery and aortic arch with a localized and abrupt reduction, absent in conventional imaging. These findings suggest that [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-Siglec-9 PET/CT has significant potential for precise, inflammation-specific detection of affected vascular tissue in GCA during relapse.
Altered brain glymphatic function on diffusion-tensor MRI in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage: an exploratory study
Authors: Xia Xiaona , Ren Qingguo , Zhang Juntao , Guan Shuai , Jiang Qingjun , Wei Ying , Hua Rui , Zhao Shen , Hu Xiangjun , Shi Feng , Meng Xiangshui 
Published: December 2024

ObjectivesTo investigate the function of the glymphatic system (GS) and its association with neuropsychological tests in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH) by diffusion tensor imaging analysis along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS).MethodsThis retrospective study included 58 patients with sICH and 63 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). Partial correlation analyses were performed to examine the relationships between the DTI-ALPS index and radiological as well as clinical data. Mediation analyses were performed to explore the mediating role of the grey matter proportion (GM%) in the relationship between DTI-ALPS index and Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score.ResultsSignificantly lower DTI-ALPS index values were observed in sICH compared with HCs (FDR-p &lt; 0.001). In the acute-subacute sICH group, the ALPS index was significantly correlated with hematoma volume (r = −0.572, FDR-p = 0.031). In the chronic sICH group, the ALPS index was significantly correlated with MoCA scores (r = 0.425, FDR-p = 0.014). In chronic sICH groups, GM% served as a significant mediator in the relationship between the DTI-ALPS index and MoCA scores (indirect effects β = 4.925, 95%CI: 0.028, 11.841). The ALPS index was identified as an independent prognostic indicator for unfavorable outcomes in sICH (β = −9.851, p = 0.018).ConclusionOur study demonstrated that the DTI-ALPS index decreased in sICH patients, suggesting potential functional impairment of the lymphoid system. Additionally, the DTI-ALPS index served as an independent predictor of poor 90-day prognosis. In the acute-subacute stage of sICH, the DTI-ALPS index had negative correlation with hematoma volume. In the chronic sICH group, the GM% partially mediated the relationship between the GS and cognitive function.
VNS paired with training enhances recognition memory: mechanistic insights from proteomic analysis of the hippocampal synapse
Authors: Jung Seung H. , Olsen Laura K. , Jones Krysten A. , Moore Raquel J. , Harshman Sean W. , Hatcher-Solis Candice N. 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionRecognition memory, an essential component of cognitive health, can suffer from biological limitations of stress, aging, or neurodegenerative disease. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a neuromodulation therapy with the potential to improve cognitive function. This study investigated the effectiveness of multiple sessions of VNS to enhance recognition memory in healthy rodents and the underlying cognitive benefits of VNS by proteomic analysis of the synaptosome.MethodsRats demonstrated VNS-induced recognition memory improvements using a novel object recognition (NOR) task. Using the LC–MS/MS method, roughly 3,000 proteins in the synaptosome of the hippocampus were analyzed.ResultsProtein–protein interaction (PPI) enrichment analysis found differentially expressed proteins related to synaptic signaling and neurotransmitter pathways. PPI network analysis identified six unique protein clusters, including a cluster of synaptic signaling related pathways. Using ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA), rapamycin-insensitive companion of mTOR was identified as an upstream regulator of synaptosome changes due to VNS-paired training.DiscussionBased on these results, it is proposed that VNS may mediate cognitive enhancement via increases in glutamatergic signaling and early LTP during the consolidation period, followed by sustained synaptic plasticity via modified post-synaptic receptor expression and dendritic outgrowth. Further investigation is required to determine if VNS is a good candidate to ameliorate cognitive impairment.
Combination decoction of Astragalus mongholicus and Salvia miltiorrhiza mitigates pressure-overload cardiac dysfunction by inhibiting multiple ferroptosis pathways
Authors: Xu Qiyao , Liu Xuan , Chen Zhaoyang , Guo Can , Lu Pengyu , Zhang Sujie , Wang Xindong , Shen Jianping 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundAstragalus mongholicus (AM) and Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat heart failure (HF). Ferroptosis has been studied as a key factor in the occurrence of HF. It remains unclear whether the combined use of AM and SM can effectively improve HF and the underlying mechanisms.ObjectiveThis study aims to explore whether the combined use of AM and SM can improve HF by inhibiting ferroptosis. It also examines the roles and interactions of the pathways associated with GPX4, FSP1, and DHODH.MethodsIn vitro experiments used angiotensin II-induced (4 μM for 48 h) hypertrophic H9c2 cells, while in vivo studies employed a rat model of transverse aortic constriction-induced (to 1 mm for 8 weeks) HF. Interventions included decoctions of AM and SM (for animal experiments) and medicated serum (for cell experiments), along with specific pathway inhibitors such as erastin, FSP1 inhibitor and brequinar. Subsequently, various molecular biology methods were used to measure the protein levels of GPX4, FSP1, and DHODH, as well as each sample group’s ferroptosis-related and HF-related indicators, to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.ResultsThe combined use of AM and SM can effectively restore the levels of GPX4, FSP1, and DHODH that are reduced after HF, as well as improve indicators related to ferroptosis and HF. When GPX4, FSP1, or DHODH is inhibited, the ferroptosis-inhibiting effect and the ability of AM and SM to improve HF are both weakened. When two of the three proteins are inhibited, the protective effect of HDC is strongest when GPX4 is retained, followed by FSP1, and weakest when DHODH is retained.ConclusionThis study confirms that the combined use of AM and SM inhibits ferroptosis and alleviates HF by increasing GPX4, FSP1, and DHODH levels. It shows that the protective effect is strongest through GPX4, followed by FSP1, and weakest through DHODH. These findings provide new insights into the therapeutic mechanisms of this combination of botanical drugs.
Validation and adaptation of the diffusion of intimate images among adolescents (EDIMA) scale in adolescents from Peru
Authors: Figueroa-Quiñones Joel , Ipanaqué-Zapata Miguel , Rivera-Lozada Oriana , Villalobos-Quiroz Cecilia Gabriela , Vilcabana-Burgos Axel Glynda , Valle-Chafloque Ibeth Solange 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundThe use of technologies through social networks is a common practice among adolescents who use it to communicate. However, the lack of control and supervision of these media means that they disseminate any type of information, including sexual content.ObjectiveTo evaluate the psychometric properties of the Intimate Images Diffusion Scale (EDIMA) in Peruvian adolescents.MethodA psychometric study was conducted with a population of 900 adolescents from the coast, highlands and jungle of Peru. A confirmatory factor analysis and measurement invariance analysis was performed by age and sex groups. In addition, internal consistency was evaluated through the omega index to estimate the reliability of the scale.ResultsOur study identified that the two-factor model obtained adequate fit indices with values &gt;0.994 for the CFI and TLI, while the SRMR had a value of 0.074 and the RMSEA of 0.058. Measurement invariance by age group reported a ΔCFI and ΔRMSEA ≤0.01. Reliability reported a McDonald’s ω greater than 0.8.ConclusionThe EDIMA is a valid and reliable instrument to evaluate the dissemination of intimate images among adolescents from various regions of Peru.
AI performance assessment in blended learning: mechanisms and effects on students’ continuous learning motivation
Authors: Ji Hao , Suo Lingling , Chen Hua 
Published: December 2024

IntroductionBlended learning combines the strengths of online and offline teaching and has become a popular approach in higher education. Despite its advantages, maintaining and enhancing students’ continuous learning motivation in this mode remains a significant challenge.MethodsThis study utilizes questionnaire surveys and structural equation modeling to examine the role of AI performance assessment in influencing students’ continuous learning motivation in a blended learning environment.ResultsThe results indicate that AI performance assessment positively influences students’ continuous learning motivation indirectly through expectation confirmation, perceived usefulness, and learning satisfaction. However, AI performance assessment alone does not have a direct impact on continuous learning motivation.DiscussionTo address these findings, this study suggests measures to improve the effectiveness of AI performance assessment systems in blended learning. These include providing diverse evaluation metrics, recommending personalized learning paths, offering timely and detailed feedback, fostering teacher-student interactions, improving system quality and usability, and visualizing learning behaviors for better tracking.
Evaluating a computer-based body exposure paradigm for the treatment of body image disturbance in adolescent Anorexia Nervosa: effects on the attentional bias and emotions
Authors: Sasse Lena , Stonawski Valeska , Kratz Oliver , Moll Gunther , Horndasch Stefanie 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundA diagnostic criterion of Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is body image disturbance. Body exposure therapy is a widely used approach to treat this; however, it is unclear which part of body exposure therapy is relevant for regaining a realistic perspective on the own body. This study aimed to examine the role of the attentional bias (AB), which AN patients exhibit to the most disliked parts of their body. Additionally, emotional responses to the body exposure sessions were examined.MethodsParticipants were adolescent girls with a diagnosis of AN, who were randomly assigned to either an intervention (INT) or a treatment-as-usual (TAU) group. Both groups completed a pre and a post session, which included the completion of questionnaires to measure AN-psychopathology. The INT group received four sessions of a computer-based body exposure between the pre and the post session. The viewing pattern was recorded before and after each intervention session via an eyetracking (ET) device, as were emotional response scores on a visual analog scale (VAS; anxiety and disgust). The TAU group did not receive the intervention, but viewing patterns were recorded during the pre and the post session. All participants were asked to list their three least favorite body parts to be able to subsequently assess the AB.ResultsFifty-eight adolescent girls with AN participated in the study. There were no differences in psychopathology pre to post session, as measured by administered questionnaires. The existence of an AB could be replicated, but there was no significant reduction in the AB pre to post session in the INT group, nor was there an interaction between group and time. Also, no changes in the AB were found within and between sessions in the INT group. Anxiety scores reduced significantly across sessions while disgust scores were significantly higher post session than they were pre session.ConclusionsWhile the existence of an AB was demonstrated, the carried-out body exposures were neither sufficient to reduce the AB nor the psychopathology; nevertheless, a significant decrease in anxiety levels showed the usefulness of the exposure sessions. Future research might benefit from more exposure sessions and incorporating AB modification training (ABMT).
Consumption patterns before and during the COVID-19 pandemic among patients admitted to inpatient drug detoxification treatment: Results of two cross-sectional surveys from 2018 and 2021
Authors: Roser Patrik , Specka Michael , Bonnet Udo , Kuhlmann Thomas , Kühnhold Stefan , Steinert Renate , Zeiske Benita , Deimel Daniel , Scherbaum Norbert 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundThe lockdown measures during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic could have influenced drug consumption patterns of persons with drug use disorder, especially due to a reduced availability of drugs, an increased consumption of sedating substances as a coping strategy, or a shift to novel psychotropic substances (NPS) associated with an increased drug buying in the internet. In this study, the consumption patterns of people mainly with opioid use disorder entering inpatient drug detoxification treatment were investigated in the same hospitals with the same methods before and during the pandemic.MethodsAt admission, patients were interviewed regarding their consumption patterns using the EuropASI questionnaire. In addition, changes in the routes of drug acquisition were assessed.ResultsIn five hospitals in Western Germany, 213 (2021) and 175 persons (2018) were recruited. Sociodemographic data were similar in both cohorts (mean age around 40 years, mainly male, about 50% with migrant background, high unemployment rate). Rates of use of various drugs during the last 30 days were also similar. Differences were detected for gabapentinoids and opioid analgesics (increase &gt;5%) as well as for cannabis (decrease &gt;5%). Current use of NPS was low in both surveys. Only a minority of patients had experiences with drug acquisition in the internet.DiscussionThe pandemic had only a minor influence on consumption patterns and routes of drug acquisition in this sample. It remains to be seen whether the increased use of gabapentinoids and opioid analgesics will continue despite the end of the pandemic.
School-based adolescent health survey in Himachal Pradesh, India: study design and protocol
Authors: Mohanty Saroj , Mehra Devika , Das Subha Sankar , Sethi Gaurav , Garg Rishi , Gupta Anmol , Chauhan Anjali , Mehra Sunil 
Published: December 2024

BackgroundThe World Health Organization defined adolescent age group as a life span between 10 and 19 years. Adolescence is a phase of transition from childhood to adulthood, it is a unique stage for human development and a very sensitive period for laying the foundation of good health. Investment in this life-stage yields triple dividend. To promote health and well-being of adolescents, Government of India has launched various programs. An institutionalized evaluation of documenting achievement would strengthen these government led programs.MethodsA cross-sectional survey will be conducted among adolescents enrolled in government schools in the age group of 13–17 years. Two research instruments for students, principals, and for data collectors a checklist will be developed. Standard measures will be followed for data quality assurance. Data from students and principals will be collected in self-administration mode. Bivariate and multiple logistic regression will be employed for data analysis.ResultsThe study protocol for the school-based adolescent health survey will be implemented in Himachal Pradesh, India. The survey results will be disseminate both at state and national level.ConclusionThe study findings will provide policymakers and program planners with scientific evidence on key thematic areas essential for adolescent development and health outcomes. These insights will help identify and prioritize specific focus areas within the school health program, guiding more effective implementation strategies to address the unique needs of adolescents.