bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of key genes in gout and atherosclerosis and construction of molecular regulatory networks
Authors: Qing Gong , Yuan Zujun 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundGout is a type of chronic inflammatory disease linked to the accumulation of monosodium urate crystals, leading to arthritis. Studies have shown that patients with gout are more likely to develop atherosclerosis, but the specific mechanisms involved remain unknown. The purpose of the research was to explore the key molecules and potential mechanisms between gout and atherosclerosis.MethodsGene expression profiles for gout as well as atherosclerosis were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, then differential analysis was utilized to identify common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the two diseases. The analysis of functional enrichment was conducted to investigate the biological processes that the DEGs might be involved in. The Cytoscape software was utilized to develop a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network as well as identify hub genes, while LASSO analysis was employed to select key genes. The TRRUST database was utilized to forecast transcription factors (TFs), and the miRTarBase database was utilized to forecast miRNAs.ResultsFour key genes, CCL3, TNF, CCR2, and CCR5, were identified. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves showed that the areas under ROC curve (AUC) for these four key genes in both gout and atherosclerosis were greater than 0.9. The analysis of functional enrichment revealed that the DEGs were primarily involved in “regulation of T-cell activation”, “chemokine signaling pathway”, and other biological processes. The TRRUST prediction results indicated that RELA and NFKB1 are common regulatory transcription factors for CCR2, CCR5, CCL3, and TNF. The miRTarBase prediction results showed that hsa-miR-203a-3p is a common regulatory miRNA for TNF and CCR5.ConclusionThis study preliminarily explored the potential key molecules and mechanisms between gout and atherosclerosis. These findings provide new insights for further research into identifying potential biomarkers and clinical treatment strategies for these two diseases.
Immersive poetry learning: a field study with middle school students
Authors: Reynaert Vincent , Possik Jalal , Demarey Catherine , Kieken Danny , Abert Benoit , De Witte Benjamin 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionThe field of poetry learning is currently facing significant challenges, primarily due to a lack of motivation and interest among students. This has resulted in educators encountering difficulties in identifying suitable educational alternatives. To address the latter issue, immersive learning has emerged as a potential solution, as it has been demonstrated to enhance motivation and learning outcomes in a multitude of fields.MethodsIn light of the aforementioned considerations, this field study seeks to examine the potential of virtual reality (VR) tools in enhancing the memorization of poetry by increasing the engagement of the participants. The study concentrated on the acquisition of a French poem by a group of middle school students. A virtual environment has been developed for this purpose, tailored to the poem in question. The experimental design included a pretest, segmented learning sessions, a posttest, and a retention test. To evaluate student engagement, both motivation and sense of presence were measured using Likert-scale questionnaires, while memorization performance was assessed through a scoring system based on recall accuracy.ResultsThe findings reveal that the VR group demonstrated significantly higher motivation than the control group, with a mean difference of 12.626 on a 7-point Likert scale (six items), indicating that VR is a notably more effective tool for enhancing motivation in poetry learning than traditional methods. Additionally, the VR group reported a significantly stronger sense of presence, with a mean difference of 6.111 on the same questionnaire scale, further suggesting that VR enhances students’ sense of immersion in the learning experience. These results indicate that students using VR exhibited higher levels of overall engagement than those in the control group.DiscussionHowever, this increased engagement did not lead to improved memorization outcomes, as there was no significant difference in recall accuracy between the two groups. A potential explanation for this discrepancy is the “novelty effect” of VR, which may have distracted students from focusing fully on the memorization task. The implications of integrating VR in educational settings are thus discussed.
Fibroblast growth factor receptor risk signature predicts patient prognosis and immunotherapy resistance in colorectal cancer
Authors: Li Xiaofang , Pan Zhiling , Luan Tiankuo , Xiao Qian , Li Liuying , Wu Qianxue , Yao Guoqing , Zhang Xiang , Song Daqiang 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundFibroblast Growth Factor Receptor (FGFR) signaling is linked with tumor progression and tumor immunoevasion, yet the potential effect of FGFR signature on the prognosis of patient with colorectal cancer (CRC) and response to immune therapy remains elusive.MethodsThe fibroblast growth factor receptor risk signature (FRS) was identified through single-cell RNA sequencing, bulk RNA sequencing, and machine learning techniques. Signaling enrichment analyses were conducted using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Drugs targeting the FRS were predicted using the Cancer Therapeutics Response Portal (CTRP) and PRISM databases. The analysis of T cell function and the tumor microenvironment (TME) was performed using flow cytometry.ResultsIn this study, we characterized the FRS in cancer patients with CRC. By integrating advanced techniques, we identified the FRS and revealed the intricate molecular landscape and diversity of the FRS within the TME. Notably, the FRS effectively predicted unfavorable prognosis and resistance to immunotherapy in CRC patients. Furthermore, PHA-793887, identified as a potential FRS inhibitor by the CTRP and PRISM databases, significantly restructured the immunosuppressive TME and enhanced the antitumor immune response, resulting in a reduced tumor burden in the MC38 murine tumor model.ConclusionTogether, these data support FRS positively correlates with poor prognosis and therapy resistance. The PHA-793887 could be a potential FRS inhibitor to improving the effectiveness of CRC management via bolstering antitumor immunity.
Pathological investigation, molecular characterization and first-time isolation of the predominant serotypes of fowl adenovirus (FAdV-D and E) from commercial poultry in Bangladesh
Authors: Sadekuzzaman Mohammad , Miah Md. Sojon , Parvin Rokshana , Haque Md. Enamul , Islam Tanbin Rubaiya , Sigma Sanzila Hossain , Hossain Md. Golbar , Hayat Sajedul , Hossain Muhammad Tofazzal , Islam Md. Alimul 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundFowl adenovirus (FAdV) is a globally distributed virus that inflicts significant economic losses on the poultry industry. The study aimed at pathological investigation, molecular characterization, isolation, and pathogenicity determination of FAdV from commercial poultry.MethodsA total of 86 liver samples were collected from 80 commercial chicken farms. All samples were examined for gross pathology; only liver samples were used for histopathology and virus detection by PCR. PCR-positive FAdV samples were used for isolation of virus in 10-day-old seronegative embryonated chicken eggs (ECEs) via chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). PCR confirmed virus isolates were sequenced for serotyping and phylogenetic analysis. Pathogenicity of the isolated FAdVs was assessed by oral, i.m., and i.p. routes of infection.ResultsThe study observed gross lesions including hydropericardium and enlarged, friable pale livers with ecchymotic hemorrhages. Histopathological analysis revealed hepatocytic necrosis with basophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies in liver tissues, and tubular necrosis, focal hemorrhages, and mononuclear cell infiltration in kidney tissues. Out of 86 liver samples analyzed, 40 were positive for FAdVs by PCR, and 22 were positive for virus isolation. One serotype was 11 and other 11 were 8b of FAdV and genetically close to Bangladesh, India, and Turkey isolates, according to hexon gene phylogenetic analysis. The pathogenicity test indicated that serotype 11 was more virulent than the serotype 8b.ConclusionThe study concluded that serotypes 11 and 8b of FAdVs are circulating simultaneously among commercial broiler and layer chickens, serotype 8b was found predominant one.
Transcriptional patterns of brain structural abnormalities in CSVD-related cognitive impairment
Authors: Mao Haixia , Xu Min , Wang Hui , Liu Yuankun , Wang Feng , Gao Qianqian , Zhao Songyun , Ma Lin , Hu Xiaoyun , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Xi Guangjun , Fang Xiangming , Shi Yachen 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundBrain structural abnormalities have been associated with cognitive impairment in individuals with small cerebral vascular disease (CSVD). However, the molecular and cellular factors making the different brain structural regions more vulnerable to CSVD-related cognitive impairment remain largely unknown.Materials and methodsVoxel-based morphology (VBM) was performed on the structural magnetic resonance imaging data of 46 CSVD-related cognitive impairment and 73 healthy controls to analyze and compare the gray matter volume (GMV) between the 2 groups. Transcriptome-neuroimaging spatial correlation analysis was carried out in combination with the Allen Human Brain Atlas to explore gene expression profiles associated with changes in cortical morphology in CSVD-related cognitive impairment.ResultsVBM analysis demonstrated extensive decreased GMV in CSVD-related cognitive impairment in the bilateral temporal lobe and thalamus, especially the hippocampus, thalamus, parahippocampus, and fusiform, and the left temporal lobe showed a more severe atrophy than the right temporal lobe. These brain structural alterations were closely related to memory and executive function deficits in CSVD-related cognitive impairment. Furthermore, a total of 1,580 genes were revealed to be significantly associated with regional change in GMV. The negatively and positively GMV-linked gene expression profiles were mainly enriched in RNA polymerase II, catalytic activity acting on a nucleic acid, aminoacyltransferase activity, axonogenesis, Golgi membrane, and cell junction organization.ConclusionOur findings suggest that brain morphological abnormalities in CSVD-related cognitive impairment are linked to molecular changes involving complex polygenic mechanisms, highlighting the interplay between genetic influences and structural alterations relevant to CSVD-related cognitive impairment.
Effects of the Tovertafel® on apathy, social interaction and social activity of people with dementia in long-term inpatient care: results of a non-controlled within-subject-design study
Authors: Konrad Robert , Güttler Carina , Öhl Natalie , Heidl Christian , Scholz Stefanie , Bauer Christian 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionTovertafel® is a VR-based serious game for dementia care (SGDC) that aims to stimulate residents affected by dementia in nursing homes, promote social and cognitive skills and reduce apathy. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of using Tovertafel® on apathy, social interaction and social activity of people with dementia (PWD) in long-term inpatient care in Germany.MethodsIn this monocentric intervention study, 25 residents of an inpatient long-term care facility with moderate or severe dementia had two weekly applications of Tovertafel® over a period of 8 weeks. Effects on the residents’ social interaction and activity were recorded before (T1), during (T2) and 1 h after (T3) each intervention using the Engagement of a Person with Dementia Scale (EPWDS). The degree of apathy was assessed using the Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES). Effects of Tovertafel® were examined using a simple repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA).ResultsThirteen residents with moderate (52%) and 12 residents with severe dementia (48%) were included. Results showed that residents’ apathy changed over the course of the trial and was partially reduced. ANOVA revealed significant changes in the positive expression of social participation in the overall group between individual observation times (p &lt; 0.001; T1: MW = 2.67, SD = 1.352; T2: MW = 3.66, SD = 1.365; T3: MW = 3.10, SD = 1.300) and a significantly lower negative expression of social participation at T2 (MW = 1.09, SD = 0.358) than at T1 (MW = 1.19, SD = 0.579; p = 0.028). There was a significantly higher positive expression of behavioral involvement in the overall group at T3 (MW = 1.17, SD = 0.552) than at T1 (p = 0.003) or T2 (p = 0.045). Analyses did not find any significant interaction between observation times and degree of dementia.DiscussionResults of the study show that the use of Tovertafel® over a period of 2 months had significant effects on apathy, social activity and social interaction in people with moderate or severe dementia. Symptoms of apathy could be reduced and social interaction and activity increased. However, due to limitations of the study design and special circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic situation, findings might be overestimated and must be interpreted with care. Further research is necessary.
The safety and efficacy of applying a high-current temporal interference electrical stimulation in humans
Authors: Wang Yan , Zeng Ginger Qinghong , Wang Mengmeng , Zhang Mingsong , Chang Chuangchuang , Liu Qiongwei , Wang Keqing , Ma Ru , Wang Ying , Zhang Xiaochu 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundTemporal interference electrical stimulation (TI) is promise in targeting deep brain regions focally. However, limited electric field intensity challenges its efficacy.ObjectiveThis study aimed to introduce a high-current TI electrical stimulation protocol to enhance its intensity and evaluate its safety and efficacy when applied to the primary motor cortex (M1) in the human brain.MethodsSafety assessments included a battery of biochemical and neuropsychological tests (NSE, MoCA, PPT, VAMS-R, and SAS measurements), 5-min resting-state electroencephalography (EEG) recordings before and after 30-min high-current TI electrical stimulation sessions (20 Hz, 70 Hz, sham). Adverse reactions were also documented post-stimulation. Efficacy evaluations involved two motor tasks, the simple reaction time (SRT) task and the one-increment task, to investigate the distinct contributions of beta (20 Hz) and gamma (70 Hz) oscillations to motor functions.ResultsBiochemical and neuropsychological tests revealed no significant differences between the groups. Additionally, no epileptic activities were detected in the EEG recordings. In the one-increment task, 20 Hz stimulation delayed participants’ reaction time compared to the 70 Hz and sham groups. Conversely, in the SRT task, 70 Hz stimulation exhibited a tendency to enhance participants’ performance relative to the sham group.ConclusionThe proposed high-current TI electrical stimulation is both safe and effective for stimulating the human brain. Moreover, the distinct effects observed in motor tasks underscore the dissociative roles of beta and gamma oscillations in motor functions, offering valuable insights into the potential applications of high-current TI electrical stimulation in brain stimulation research.
Effects of different orchard tree pruning residues on the yield and nutrient composition of Lentinus edodes
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Quanshun , Duan Longfei , Ding Jian , Li Yue , Wang Yong , Xu Hongyan , Qin Baofu 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionAs the scale of Lentinus edodes cultivation expands, challenges such as substrate shortages and rising production costs in mushroom cultivation have become increasingly prominent. Fruit tree pruning residue has the potential to serve as an alternative substrate, offering a sustainable solution. This study evaluates the feasibility of incorporating various types of fruit tree pruning residues into L. edodes cultivation.MethodsDifferent ratios of Quercus sawdust (QS), Malus pumila pruning (MPP), Vitis vinifera pruning (VVP), Actinidia deliciosa pruning (ADP), Ziziphus jujuba pruning (ZJP), and Morus alba pruning (MAP) were tested as substrates. The effects on yield, amino acid profiles, and protein content of L. edodes fruiting bodies were analyzed. The control substrate comprised 80% QS, and the experimental groups incorporated varying ratios of fruit tree residues.ResultsCompared with the control, yields increased by 14.86% (QS-MPP), 8.1% (QS-VVP), 18.92% (QS-ZJP), and 22.97% (QS-MAP). The MAP group had 21.21% higher ash content, while the QS-MAP group exhibited the highest crude protein content (10.84% increase). The QS-MPP group showed the highest crude fiber content (1.72 g/100 g). Crude polysaccharide and fat contents in the ZJP group increased by 110.77% and 10.15%, respectively. Mineral content varied, with QS-MPP showing the highest calcium, potassium, manganese, and magnesium levels, and VVP exhibiting the highest iron and copper levels. Amino acid analysis revealed QS-MPP had the highest levels of threonine, valine, isoleucine, serine, cysteine, glycine, and histidine, while QS-VVP had the highest leucine, aspartate, glutamate, and arginine levels. The best formulation was determined as 40% QS, 40% MPP, 17% bran, 1% sucrose, 1% CaCO3, and 1% gypsum.DiscussionThese results highlight the potential of fruit tree pruning residues as a sustainable substrate for L. edodes cultivation, ensuring high yields and enhanced nutritional quality. This approach can contribute to cost-effective and environmentally friendly mushroomproduction.
Effects of pharmacogenomics-guided treatment on medication adherence and the antidepressant switching rate in major depressive disorder
Authors: Chen Chaoli , Lun Yang , Yu Jing , Zhao Xiaochuan , Su Shi , Zhao Mengqiang , Yan Yuhang , Wang Jiaqi , Fu Ran , An Feiyue , Duan Liguang , Yan Leting , Li Ruxing , Li Jinxiao , Liu Ziyu , Geng Xiaoying , Wang Jincheng , Zhao Yuanyuan , Zhou Chunhua 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundIn the treatment of depression, medication plays a crucial role. However, insufficient patient adherence to medication often results in unsatisfactory treatment outcomes, increasing both the recurrence and rehospitalization rates of depression, and consequently imposing a greater economic burden on the healthcare system.ObjectivesOur objective was to examine the impact of pharmacogenomic testing on medication adherence and antidepressant switching rates among individuals diagnosed with depression.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study encompassed patients diagnosed with depression who were admitted to the First Hospital of Hebei Medical University between April 2022 and September 2023. Patients were categorized into a pharmacogenomics-guided treatment (PGxT) group and a treatment as usual (TAU) group based on whether pharmacogenetic testing was conducted. The primary outcome measures included the proportion of patients exhibiting medication adherence greater than 80% at three and 6 months post-discharge, as well as the proportion of patients experiencing changes in their prescribed medication types.ResultsA total of 310 patients in the PGxT group and TAU group were obtained through propensity score matching. Among the 620 patients in both groups, 57.42% demonstrated good adherence (≥80%) at 3 months; this percentage dropped to 31.45% at 6 months. At 3 months of observation, the percentages of patients demonstrating good adherence were significantly different between the groups (64.52% in the PGxT group vs. 50.32% in the TAU group; p &lt; 0.001). The difference was also significant after 6 months (38.06% in the PGxT group vs. 24.84% in the TAU group; p &lt; 0.001). Furthermore, patients receiving PGxT (20.64%) exhibited a lower rate of antidepressant conversion compared to those receiving TAU (31.29%).ConclusionThe findings of this study indicate that pharmacogenomics testing positively influences treatment adherence and may decrease the need to switch medications among patients with depression.
Developmental coordination disorder subtypes also vary in the pattern of behavioral and emotional problems
Authors: Schoemaker M. M. , Lust J. M. , Steenbergen B. , Houwen S. , Diepstraten J. E. M. , Wilson P. H. , Poelma M. 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundBehavioral and emotional problems in children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) are well documented. However, the heterogeneity of this group has been largely overlooked. Addressing this gap is important to develop individually-tailored interventions.AimsOur three aims were to assess: (i) behavioral and emotional problems in children with DCD; (ii) behavioral and emotional problems in subtypes of DCD, and (iii) the context-specificity of these problems (home/school).Methods and procedureData were extracted from the medical records of a large sample of 93 children with DCD (79 boys, mean age 8.3) referred to a rehabilitation center. Behavioral and emotional problems were assessed with the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the Teacher Report Form (TRF).Outcomes and resultsTwo-third of the children presented with behavioral and emotional problems according to both parents and teachers. The subtypes with generalized motor problems were most affected, while the subtype with gross-motor problems was least affected. Children presented with more problems at home than at school.Conclusion and implicationsGiven the frequent occurrence of behavioral and emotional problems, clinicians should tailor their interventions to these problems in DCD. Knowledge of subtypes can inform these decisions.
Dark Triad and relational aggression: the mediating role of relative deprivation and hostile attribution bias
Authors: Jiang Yongzhi , Tong Lifang , Cao Wenjiao , Wang Huizhe 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionRelational aggression, as a distinct form of aggressive behavior in social relationships, is associated with various physiological and psychological disorders. Although previous research has provided theoretical support for the connection between the Dark Triad (Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and narcissism) and relational aggression, the mediating factors between the two still require in-depth exploration. This study employed a cross-sectional research method to examine the mediating roles of relative deprivation and hostile attribution bias between the Dark Triad and relational aggression.MethodThis research employed the Dark Triad scale, the relational aggression scale, the relative deprivation scale, and the hostile attribution bias scale to conduct a self-reported questionnaire survey involving 1,968 students from two universities in China.ResultsThe Dark Triad traits significantly predicted relational aggression. The mediating role of relative deprivation was significant in the relationship between these traits and relational aggression. Hostile attribution bias mediated the relationship between Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and relational aggression, but not between narcissism and relational aggression. Additionally, the serial mediating role of relative deprivation and hostile attribution bias was significant between the Dark Triad traits and relational aggression.DiscussionThis study not only verified the relationship between the Dark Triad and relational aggression but also identified mediating factors providing new useful information for effectively explaining and intervening in malignant interpersonal relationships.