bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identifying Hub Genes Driving Glioblastoma Multiforme Progression through Transcriptomics: To Discover Potential Diagnostic and Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Saeed Mohammad Umar , Choudhury Arunabh , Ansari Jaoud , Mohammad Taj , Alajmi Mohamed F. , Hussin Afzal , Hassan Md. Imtaiyaz 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a highly aggressive primary brain tumor associated with high fatality rates, poor prognosis, and limited treatment options. To enhance our understanding of the disease and pave the way for targeted therapies, it is imperative to identify key genes influencing GBM progression. In this study, we harnessed RNA-Seq gene count data from GBM patients sourced from the GEO database, conducting an in-depth analysis of gene expression patterns. Our investigation involved the stratification of samples into two distinct sets, Group I and Group II, comparing low-grade and GBM tumor samples, respectively. Subsequently, we performed differential expression analysis and enrichment analysis to uncover significant gene signatures. To elucidate the protein-protein interactions that underlie GBM, we leveraged the STRING plugin within Cytoscape for comprehensive network visualization and analysis. By applying Maximal clique centrality (MCC) scores, we identified a set of 10 hub genes in each group. These hub genes were subjected to survival analysis, highlighting their prognostic relevance. In Group I, comprising BUB1, DLGAP5, BUB1B, CDK1, TOP2A, CDC20, KIF20A, ASPM, BIRC5, and CCNB2, these genes emerged as potential biomarkers associated with the transition to low-grade tumors. In Group II, encompassing LIF, LBP, CSF3, IL6, CCL2, SAA1, CCL20, MMP9, CXCL10, and MMP1, these genes were implicated in transforming adult glioblastoma. Kaplan–Meier's overall survival analysis of these hub genes revealed that modifications, particularly upregulation of these candidate genes, were associated with reduced survival in GBM patients. The findings underscore the significance of genomic alterations and differential gene expression in GBM, presenting opportunities for early diagnosis and targeted therapeutic interventions. This study offers valuable insights into the potential avenues for improving the clinical management of GBM.
Rocket launches threaten global conservation
Authors: Ang Lee Ping , Kong Fanhao , Hernández-Rodríguez Enrique , Liu Qiuyu , Cerrejόn Carlos , Feldman Mariano J. , Shu Lei , Gao Lei , Ye Li-Xin , Ang Lee Ling , Yin Xiangbo 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Satellite technologies are essential for global conserving through providing continuous, real-time Earth monitoring. However, development of these technologies necessitates an increase in rocket launches, which introduces new threats to biodiversity. Here, we mapped rocket launch sites (RLS) and assessed their threats on conservation. Globally, over 90% RLS are within areas where unprotected habitats excesses 50% and over 62% of operating RLS are located within or near protected areas (PA). Importantly, the threats of RLS on conservation are more associated with specific biomes of their location, than responding to latitudinal, longitudinal, and inland versus coastal geographical patterns. Specifically, threatened terrestrial species in Tropical & Subtropical Moist Broadleaf Forests (TSMBF) are more susceptible to risks from launches than those in other biomes. Our results suggest that without strategic planning for RLS, growing launches could create conflicts between conservation efforts and technology development, compromising the conservation achievement of UN Biological Diversity Goals.
Assessment of myocardial injury by SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging in patients with COVID-19 infection in a single center after lifting the restrictions in China
Authors: Xin Keke , Ma Xinghong , Meng Xiaoli , Zhang Xiao , Yang Weidong , Ma Taoqi , Zhou Cheng , Wang Jing , Li Guoquan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose: To assess myocardial injury using rest single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) and to evaluate whether myocardial injury detected by rest MPI predict the prognosis of symptoms in COVID-19 patients after 6 months follow-up.
Methods: Patients suspected of myocarditis who were referred to the nuclear medicine department for rest MPI between December 2022 and March 2023 after lifting the restrictions of COVID-19 pandemic and between 2018 and March 2019 prior to the pandemic were initially enrolled in this study. Patients with COVID-19 infection after lifting the restrictions and their corresponding cohorts before the pandemic were respectively allocated to the study group and the control group. Compare the parameters of myocardial injury detected by rest SPECT MPI between the two cohorts and investigate the association between myocardial injury and symptom prognosis in both groups.
Results: Total perfusion defect (TPD) (4.2 ± 3.3 vs. 2.3 ± 2.2, P < 0.001), summed rest score (SRS) (5.3 ± 5.4 vs. 2.7 ± 2.0, P< 0.001), the proportion of patients with TPD > 4 (43.3% vs. 17.8%, P < 0.001), TPD > 10 (6.71% vs 0, P < 0.001), SRS > 4 (40.2% vs 15.8%, P < 0.001), SRS > 10 (12.8% vs 0, P < 0.001), the number of abnormal perfusion segments (3.9 ± 3.1 vs. 2.4 ± 1.7, P < 0.001) were all significantly higher in the study group. All the parameters of rest MPI were not associated with the prognosis of symptoms in both groups after 6 months follow-up.
Conclusion: Myocardial injury in COVID-19 patients could be assessed by rest SPECT MPI. The COVID-19 patients exhibited a higher frequency and greater severity of myocardial injury than uninfected control patients. Myocardial injury assessed by rest MPI did not predict for the prognosis of symptoms.
Risk factor analysis of adjacent vertebral compression fracture following the surgery of percutaneous kyphoplasty in postmenopausal women
Authors: Wu Fan , Chen Xingda , Jiang Rueishiuan , Li Liqun , Qin Lei , Qi Weizhen , Hao Chizi , Tang Jingjing 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
To evaluate the risk factors for adjacent vertebral compression fracture(AVCF) following the surgery of percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) in postmenopausal women.
Methods
Two hundred and ninety-seven postmenopausal female patients, underwent PKP surgery between January 2016 and December 2020, were divided into two groups according to whether or not AVCF. Receiver operating characteristic(ROC) curves were generated to analyze the sensitivity and specificity of the relative risk factors in the identification of AVCF.
Results
In this study of 297 postmenopausal women who underwent PKP, 67 developed AVCF during follow-up. There were no significant differences in BMI, surgical method, or cement leakage between the groups. The AVCF group was older, had lower BMD, less bone cement volume per section, higher VHA, and larger VKAC. The non-fracture group had lower postoperative VAS and fewer surgical vertebrae. The model showed good discrimination with age, BMD, postoperative VAS, VHR, and VKAC. ROC analysis indicated that a postoperative VAS score > 2.5 was highly predictive of AVCF in postmenopausal women after PKP.
Conclusion
Clinicians should pay particular attention to postoperative pain management in PKP patients, rather than forcing too much restoration of vertebral height and vertebral lordosis angle.
(1, 3)-Beta-D-Glucan in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid: a useful biomarker in diagnosis of invasive pulmonary infection caused by Hormographiella aspergillata?
Authors: Ye Haiyan , He Jinhui , Huang Jing , Chu Patrick , Liu Junru , Xing Fanfan , Poon Rosana Wing-Shan , Lo Simon Kam-Fai , Lau Ricky Wing-Tong , Chan Jasper Fuk-Woo , Lau Susanna Kar-Pui , Chiu Kelvin Hei-Yeung 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Hormographiella aspergillata is a rare hyaline mold causing invasive fungal infection in humans, until the frequent use of antifungal prophylaxis in immunocompromised hosts. Due to the high mortality of H. aspergillata infection, early recognition and treatment are crucial. Previous case reports suggested that serum (1,3)-beta-D-Glucan (BG) is one of the diagnostic aids for H. aspergillata infection. Here we report for the first time a case of pulmonary H. aspergillata infection with a negative serum BG but positive bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BAL) BG. This may suggest that BAL BG is a useful and additional microbiological marker for prompt identification of this fatal invasive fungal infection (IFI). But it should be interpreted together with the clinical presentation, imaging, and other laboratory results.
Carbonate mineralogy and geochemistry of bryozoans along the South African coast
Authors: Krzemińska Małgorzata , Piwoni-Piórewicz Anna , Boonzaaier-Davids Melissa , Florence Wayne , Waeschenbach Andrea , Najorka Jens , Jenkins Helen , Kuklinski Piotr 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to investigate whether environmental or biological factors predominantly influence bryozoan mineralization along the South African coast (spanning from 29.263°S; 16.87°E to 27.540°S; 32.677°E), a region known for its diverse oceanographic conditions. New data into the mineralogical (calcite vs. aragonite) and geochemical (Mg content in calcite) composition of bryozoans are provided thereby enhancing the global database and understanding of biomineralization patterns. To date, there has been a notable scarcity of data on bryozoan skeletal composition in tropical and subtropical regions, representing a significant gap in our knowledge and understanding of the impacts of climate change on marine, calcifying organisms. Our research reveals a diverse array of carbonate skeletons across nearly half of the known bryozoan species in the region, with calcitic forms dominating, followed by bimineralic and aragonite-based forms. The prevalence of aragonite-containing skeletons, particularly within the Cheilostomatida, mirrors global patterns, indicating a correlation with sea temperature gradients. Significant mineralogy and magnesium calcite variability exist within the Flustrina and Membraniporina suborders (Cheilostomatida). Despite exploring various environmental parameters such as temperature, salinity, or impact of currents (Agulhas, Benguela, or mixed), no clear correlation with mineralogical patterns emerged. Instead, the study underscores the substantial influence of biological factors (including specific chemical, biochemical, or genetic controls), on bryozoan skeletal carbonate mineralogy and geochemistry. These findings highlight the importance of comprehensive, multi-parametric analyses to unravel environmental signals in bryozoan biomineralization, contributing to a deeper understanding of the impacts of climate and local conditions on marine calcifiers.
Dietary Amino Acids Promote Glucagon-like Hormone Release to Generate Novel Calcium Waves in Adipose Tissues
Authors: He Li , Ahmad Muhammad , Wu Shang , Luo Shengyao , Shi Wenjia , Guo Xuan , Cao Yuansheng , Perrimon Norbert 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Nutrient sensing and the subsequent metabolic responses are fundamental functions of animals, closely linked to diseases such as type 2 diabetes and various obesity-related morbidities. Among different metabolic regulatory signals, cytosolic Ca2+ plays pivotal roles in metabolic regulation, including glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, and lipolysis. Recently, intercellular calcium waves (ICWs), the propagation of Ca2+ signaling through tissues, have been found in different systems to coordinate multicellular responses. Nevertheless, our understanding of how ICWs are modulated and operate within living organisms remains limited. In this study, we explore the real-time dynamics, both in organ culture and free-behaving animals, of ICWs in Drosophila larval and adult adipose tissues. We identified Adipokinetic hormone (AKH), the fly functional homolog of mammalian glucagon, as the key factor driving Ca2+ activities in adipose tissue. Interestingly, we found that AKH, which is released in a pulsatile manner into the circulating hemolymph from the AKH-producing neurosecretory cells (APCs) in the brain, stimulates ICWs in the larval fat by a previously unrecognized gap-junction-independent mechanism to promote lipolysis. In the adult fat body, however, gap-junction-dependent random ICWs are triggered by a presumably uniformly diffused AKH. This highlights the stage-specific interplay of hormone secretion, extracellular diffusion, and intercellular communication in the regulation of Ca2+ dynamics. Additionally, we discovered that specific dietary amino acids activate the APCs, leading to increased intracellular Ca2+ and subsequent AKH secretion. Altogether, our findings identify that dietary amino acids regulate the release of AKH peptides from the APCs, which subsequently stimulates novel gap-junction-independent ICWs in adipose tissues, thereby enhancing lipid metabolism.
Effect analysis of radiofrequency catheter ablation in the treatment of 6 children with atrial tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zhang Min , Cao Xiaoxiao 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
There are few literature reports of atrial tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy in children, and fewer cases have been effectively treated by radiofrequency catheter ablation. Therefore, we conducted a clinical summary of 6 cases of atrial tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy in children in Wuhan Children's Hospital. To investigate the effectiveness and safety of radiofrequency ablation for atrial tachycardia cardiomyopathy.
Methods
A total of 6 children (4 girls and 2 boys) diagnosed with atrial tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy and admitted to Wuhan Children's Hospital from January 2017 to April 2024 were selected. An intracardiac electrophysiological study was performed in all 6 children to confirm the origin of the atrial tachycardia and the presence of decreased cardiac function. All children were followed up 2 to 12 months after RFCA or in combination with atrial appendectomy, and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter and left ventricular ejection fraction were observed.
Results
The age range was 3.6 to 12.5 years and the median age was 10 years. The results of the intracardiac electrophysiological examination of the 6 cases showed that the origin came from the right pulmonary vein in 2 cases, from the left pulmonary vein in 2 cases, from the left atrial appendage in one case, and from the right atrial appendage in one case. Four cases of tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy originating in the left and right pulmonary veins were successfully eliminated by radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA). In two children with tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy in the atrial appendage, atrial appendectomy was performed with parental consent after precise localization of the RFCA. After RFCA or in combination with atrial appendectomy, 5 children were followed for more than 1 year and 1 child for 2 months. All children had sinus rhythm. At the same time, the left ventricular ejection fraction after RFCA or combined atrial appendectomy was significantly increased in 6 cases, indicating statistical significance (P < 0.01), but the left ventricular end-diastolic diameter was not statistically significant in the treatment (P > 0.05).
Conclusions
Sustained atrial tachycardia can lead to the occurrence of cardiomyopathy such as cardiac enlargement and heart failure. RFCA and combined atrial appendectomy can effectively stop tachycardia, eliminate the mechanism of tachycardia, and allow complete recovery of cardiac function.
Autism Spectrum Disorder in Offspring of Maternal asthma occurrence, and exacerbations during pregnancy: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Ho Yi-Feng , Lin Chiao-Fan , Chen Vincent Chin-Hung , Chen Yi-Lung , Hsu Tsai-Ching 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
The connection between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and maternal asthma has drawn researchers’ interest. The connection between maternal asthma exacerbation and the development of ASD in offspring remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between maternal asthma, including asthma exacerbation during pregnancy, and the risk of ASD in offspring.
Methods:
Information from over two million mothers and their live newborns, collected from the Taiwan Birth Certificate Registry spanning from January 1, 2004, to December 31, 2017, was utilized in this nationwide cohort study based on the population. The Cox regression model was employed to assess the risk of ASD in children between mothers with and without asthma. The analysis adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, parity, birth weight, and parents’ physical and mental illnesses. Sibling control was implemented to investigate the impact of asthma exacerbation during pregnancy on the risk of offspring ASD.
Result:
Children with asthmatic parents face a significantly higher risk of developing ASD compared to those with non-asthmatic parents. Maternal asthma had an HR of 1.44 ( 95% confidence interval of 1.34 to 1.55), while paternal asthma had an HR of 1.12 ( 95% confidence interval of 1.03 to 1.22). Interestingly, acute asthma exacerbations during pregnancy didn't seem to affect the likelihood of having more ASD children in a distinctive way (Adjusted HR 1.23, 95% CI: 0.68–2.24).
Conclusion:
Offspring born to parents with asthma face an elevated risk of having ASD, with a higher risk associated maternal asthma. There was no obvious correlation between mother asthma exacerbations during pregnancy and the likelihood of ASD in the offspring.
COVID-19 pandemic-related disruptions to maternal, child and adolescent health and nutrition services in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Stucke Amanda , Zweig Carolina , Sakai Maryanne , Getlinger Mateus , Bishop Chrissy , Carvajal Liliana , Arts Maaike , Zanetti Marcio 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
The ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic have extended far beyond the direct impacts (cases and deaths); acute pandemic control measures and fear of infection have affected populations more broadly, and vulnerable populations—including women, children and adolescents—have been the most affected. This report seeks to examine the effect that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on health systems in Latin America and the Caribbean, with a focus on ten countries, both overall and with a specific view on maternal, child and adolescent health and nutrition services. The report also presents evidence-based policy recommendations to mitigate these effects.
Methods
We created an analysis framework based on a literature review and publicly available data, and validated with expert interviews. We used this analysis framework to compare the extent of disruptions to maternal, child and adolescent health and nutrition services during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Results
Overall, we found evidence of significant service disruption across three core domains: antenatal services, intra- and post-partum services and child and adolescent services with possible associations on maternal, infant and child health outcomes. Four key policy implications are presented for consideration to manage risks of service disruption and increase the resilience of health systems more broadly in Latin American and the Caribbean.
Conclusions
Owing to the developing nature of many of the health systems in the countries studied, the findings were affected by missing data and therefore should be interpreted with caution and supplemented with further research.
Well-defined Pt-Fe alloy with enhanced catalytic performance for methanol oxidation and formic acid oxidation
Authors: Qin Congli , Fan Aixin , Dai Fucai , Li Guihua , Zhao Di , Liang Honglian , Lu Yanhong 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

It is of great significance to fabricate the Pt-based alloys with high catalytic activity, as well as the robust stability for methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) and formic acid oxidation reaction (FAOR). In this work, Pt-Fe alloy nanocrystals with concave nanocube and nano-flower structures are successfully synthesized by a simple one-pot method using polyvinylpyrrolidone and glycine as the dual reductants and dual protecting agents. Remarkably, the Pt-Fe nano-flower nanocrystals showed much higher electrocatalytic activity and stability toward MOR (FAOR), which was almost 9 (10) times greater than that of Pt black and 13 (15) times greater than that of commercial Pt/C catalyst. The excellent electro-catalytic performance is ascribed to the unique nano-flower morphology and bimetallic alloy composition.
Research on graded support technology of broken rock mass in Makeng Iron Mine
Authors: Lixin Zhang , Zehui Deng , Gang Li , Yi Li , Guangchao Liu 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In order to solve the problem of roadway support failure and deformation in Makeng Iron Mine, the surrounding rock is classified by acoustic wave method to test the loose ring, and the selection of roadway support technology and support mode is streamlined and rational. A numerical model was constructed by three-dimensional numerical simulation software (FLAC3D), and the supporting effect of the support scheme was analyzed. The results show that the distribution characteristics of plastic zone, stress field and displacement around roadway can be effectively improved by using graded support in high stress environment dominated by external horizontal tectonic stress. The stability of the roadway is monitored in real time and satisfactory results are obtained.
Genomic and Genetic Insights into Mendel’s Pea Genes
Authors: Cheng Shifeng , Feng Cong , Chen Baizhi , Hofer Julie , Shi Yan , Jiang Mei , Song Bo , Cheng Hong , Lu Lu , Wang Luyao , Howard Alex , Bendahmane Abdelhafid , Fouchal Anissa , Moreau Carol , Sawada Chie , LeSignor Christine , Barclay Elaine , Vikeli Eleni , Tsanakas Georgios , Zhao Hang , Cheema Jitender , Sayers Liz , Wingen Luzie , Vigouroux Marielle , Vickers Martin , Ambrose Mike , Dalmais Marion , Higuera-Poveda Paola , Spanner Rebecca , Horler Richard , Wouters Roland , Chundakkad Smitha , Zhao Xiaoxiao , Li Xiuli , Sun Yuchen , Huang Zejian , Deng Xingwang , Steuernagel Burkhard , Domoney Claire , Ellis Noel , Chayut Noam 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Pea, Pisum sativum, is an excellent model system through which Gregor Mendel established the foundational principles of inheritance. Surprisingly, till today, the molecular nature of the genetic differences underlying the seven pairs of contrasting traits that Mendel studied in detail remains partially understood. Here, we present a genomic and phenotypic variation map, coupled with haplotype-phenotype association analyses across a wide range of traits in a global Pisum diversity panel. We focus on a genomics-enabled genetic dissection of each of the seven traits Mendel studied, revealing many previously undescribed alleles for the four characterized genes, R, Le, I and A, and elucidating the gene identities and mutations for the remaining three uncharacterized traits. Notably, we identify: (1) a ca. 100kb deletion upstream of the Chlorophyll synthase (ChlG) gene, which generates aberrant transcripts and confers the yellow pod phenotype of gp mutants; (2) an in-frame premature stop codon mutation in a Dodeca-CLE41/44 signalling peptide which explains the parchmentless mutant phenotype corresponding to p; and (3) a 5bp in-frame deletion in a CIK-like receptor kinase gene corresponding to the fasciated stem phenotype fa, which Mendel described in terms of flower position, and we postulate the existence of a Modifier of fa (Mfa) locus that masks this meristem defect. Mendel noted the pleiotropy of the a mutation, including inhibition of axil ring anthocyanin pigmentation, a trait we found to be controlled by allelic variants of the gene D within an R2R3-MYB gene cluster. Furthermore, we characterize and validate natural variation of a quantitative genetic locus governing both pod width and seed weight, characters that Mendel deemed were not sufficiently demarcated for his analyses. This study establishes a cornerstone for fundamental research, education in biology and genetics, and pea breeding practices.