bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CircGLIS3 promotes gastric cancer progression by regulating the miR-1343-3p/PGK1 pathway and inhibiting vimentin phosphorylation
Authors: Zhang Yongxin , Wang Xiaofeng , Liu Wenwei , Lei Tianxiang , Qiao Tang , Feng Wei , Song Wu 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been proved to play crucial roles in the development of various cancers. However, the molecular mechanism of circGLIS3 involved in gastric cancer (GC) tumorigenesis has not been elucidated.

Methods
The higher expression level of circGLIS3 was identified in GC through RNA sequencing and subsequent tissue verification using Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). A series of functional experiments in vitro and in vivo were performed to evaluated the effects of circGLIS3 on tumor growth and metastasis in GC. The interaction and regulation of circGLIS3/miR-1343-3p/PGK1 axis was confirmed by RNA pulldown, western blot, and rescue experiments. RIP and western blot were performed to demonstrate the role of circGLIS3 in regulating phosphorylation of VIMENTIN. We then used qRT-PCR and co culture system to trace circGLIS3 transmission via exosomal communication and identify the effect of exosomal circGLIS3 on gastric cancer and macrophages. Finally, RIP experiments were used to determine that EIF4A3 regulates circGLIS3 expression.

Results
CircGLIS3(hsa_circ_0002874) was significantly upregulated in GC tissues and high circGLIS3 expression was associated with advanced TNM stage and lymph node metastasis in GC patients. We discovered that overexpression of circGLIS3 promoted GC cell proliferation, migration, invasion in vitro and in vivo, while suppression of circGLIS3 exhibited the opposite effect. Mechanistically, circGLIS3 could sponge miR-1343-3p and up-regulate the expression of PGK1 to promote GC tumorigenesis. We also found that circGLIS3 reduced the phosphorylation of VIMENTIN at ser 83 site by binding with VIMENTIN. Moreover, it was proven that exosomal circGLIS3 could promote gastric cancer metastasis and the M2 type polarization of macrophages. In the final step, the mechanism of EIF4A3 regulating the generation of circGLIS3 was determined.

Conclusion
Our findings demonstrate that circGLIS3 promotes GC progression through sponging miR-1343-3p and regulating VIMENTIN phosphorylation. CircGLIS3 is a potential therapeutic target for GC patients.
PTEN deficiency potentiates HBV-associated liver cancer development through augmented GP73/GOLM1
Authors: Huang Fuqiang , Guo Jing , Zhao Na , Hou Mengjie , Gai Xiaochen , Yang Shuhui , Cai Pei , Wang Yanan , Ma Qian , Zhao Qi , Li Li , Yang Huayu , Jing Yanling , Jin Di , Hu Zhongdong , Zha Xiaojun , Wang Hongyang , Mao Yilei , Liu Fangming , Zhang Hongbing 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Although hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a major risk factor for hepatic cancer, the majority of HBV carriers do not develop this lethal disease. Additional molecular alterations are thus implicated in the process of liver tumorigenesis. Since phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) is decreased in approximately half of liver cancers, we investigated the significance of PTEN deficiency in HBV-related hepatocarcinogenesis.

Methods
HBV-positive human liver cancer tissues were checked for PTEN expression. Transgenic HBV, Alb-Cre and Ptenfl/fl mice were inter-crossed to generate WT, HBV, Pten−/− and HBV; Pten−/− mice. Immunoblotting, histological analysis and qRT-PCR were used to study these livers. Gp73−/− mice were then mated with HBV; Pten−/− mice to illustrate the role of hepatic tumor biomarker golgi membrane protein 73 (GP73)/ golgi membrane protein 1 (GOLM1) in hepatic oncogenesis.

Results
Pten deletion and HBV transgene synergistically aggravated liver injury, inflammation, fibrosis and development of mixed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). GP73 was augmented in HBV; Pten−/− livers. Knockout of GP73 blunted the synergistic effect of deficient Pten and transgenic HBV on liver injury, inflammation, fibrosis and cancer development.

Conclusions
This mixed HCC-ICC mouse model mimics liver cancer patients harboring HBV infection and PTEN/AKT signaling pathway alteration. Targeting GP73 is a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer patients with HBV infection and PTEN alteration.
Association of domain-specific physical activity with albuminuria among prediabetes and diabetes: a large cross-sectional study
Authors: Xiong Bingquan , Wang Yufan , He Juan , Wang Lisha , He Rui , Zhu Min , Wang Jiaxing , Li Yingrui , Liu Bin , Xiao Kaihu , She Qiang 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Albuminuria, the presence of excess of protein in urine, is a well-known risk factor for early kidney damage among diabetic/prediabetic patients. There is a complex interaction between physical activity (PA) and albuminuria. However, the relationship of specific-domain PA and albuminuria remained obscure.

Methods
Albuminuria was defined as urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) > 30 mg/g. PA was self-reported by participants and classified into transportation-related PA (TPA), occupation-related PA (OPA), and leisure-time PA (LTPA). Weighted logistic regression was conducted to compute the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Restricted cubic spline (RCS) was used to evaluate the dose–response of PA domains with the risk of albuminuria.

Results
A total of 6739 diabetic/prediabetic patients (mean age: 56.52 ± 0.29 years) were enrolled in our study, including 3181 (47.20%) females and 3558 (52.80%) males. Of them, 1578 (23.42%) were identified with albuminuria, and 5161(76.58%) were without albuminuria. Diabetic/prediabetic patients who adhered the PA guidelines for total PA had a 22% decreased risk of albuminuria (OR = 0.78, 95%CI 0.64–0.95), and those met the PA guidelines for LTPA had a 28% decreased of albuminuria (OR = 0.72, 95%CI 0.57–0.92). However, OPA and TPA were both not associated with decreased risk of albuminuria. RCS showed linear relationship between the risk of albuminuria with LTPA.

Conclusions
Meeting the PA guideline for LTPA, but not OPA and TPA, was inversely related to the risk of albuminuria among diabetic/prediabetic patients. Additionally, achieving more than 300 min/week of LTPA conferred the positive effects in reducing albuminuria among diabetic/prediabetic patients.
Congenital CMV infection in a Brazilian neonatal intensive care unit: high prevalence among twin newborns
Authors: Marin Lauro Juliano , dos Santos Pérola Rodrigues , Ramos Felipe Charu , dos Santos Uener Ribeiro , Marques Marcílio , de Carvalho Luciana Debortoli , Gadelha Sandra Rocha , Aquino Victor Hugo 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is one of the most important pathogens associated with congenital infection worldwide. Most congenital CMV-infected infants are asymptomatic at birth; however, some can develop delayed sequelae, especially hearing loss.

Methods
This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of congenital CMV infection in a neonatal intensive care unit in a low-income region of Brazil. The objectives extended to identifying associated factors, assessing the clinical status of infected newborns, and undertaking a two-year follow-up to discern potential long-term consequences in the affected infants. This cross-sectional prospective study enrolled newborns up to three weeks of life requiring intensive medical care. We employed a convenience sampling method to include 498 newborns and 477 mothers in the study. Categorical variables underwent analysis employing Fisher’s exact test, whereas the examination of continuous variables involved the Mann‒Whitney test.

Results
CMV DNA was detected in saliva/urine samples from 6 newborns (1.21%), confirming congenital infection. We noted a significantly greater incidence (OR: 11.48; 95% CI: 2.519–52.33; p = 0.0094) of congenital infection among twins (7.14%) than among nontwins (0.66%). The twin patients exhibited discordant infection statuses, suggesting that only one of the babies tested positive for CMV. Most of the infected children were born to mothers who initiated sexual activity at a younger age (p = 0.0269). Only three out of the six newborns diagnosed with CMV infection underwent comprehensive clinical assessments and received continuous follow-up until they reached two years of age. Only one of the children had weight and height measurements below the norm for their age, coupled with developmental delays.

Conclusions
The prevalence of congenital CMV infection among newborns admitted to the NICU was low and similar to that in the general population. However, we found a significantly greater incidence of congenital CMV infection in twins than in singletons. Interestingly, the twin-infected patients exhibited discordant infection statuses, suggesting that CMV was present in only one of the babies. We also found that most of the infected children were born to mothers who initiated sexual activity at a younger age. Diagnostic accessibility and comprehensive surveillance programs are imperative for effectively managing and preventing congenital CMV infections.
Application and evaluation of artificial intelligence 3D preoperative planning software in developmental dysplasia of the hip
Authors: Xie Hongbin , Yi Jiafeng , Huang Yijian , Guo Renwen , Liu Yubo , Kong Xiangpeng , Chai Wei 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Accurate preoperative planning is crucial for successful total hip arthroplasty (THA) for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of an artificial intelligence-assisted three-dimensional (3D) planning system (AIHIP) with two-dimensional templates in predicting acetabular cup size in THA for DDH.

Method
This study retrospectively analyzed image data from 103 DDH patients who had THA between May 2019 and August 2023. AIHIP was used for 3D planning, and two-dimensional (2D) templates were used by two experienced surgeons. Accuracy was assessed by comparing predicted and actual cup sizes, and potential factors affecting accuracy were analyzed, including gender, side, BMI, and dysplasia classification.

Results
AIHIP had higher accuracy in predicting the acetabular cup size compared to the 2D template. Within ± 0 size, AIHIP’s accuracy was 84.1%, while the 2D template’s was 64.0% (p < 0.05). Within ± 1 size, AIHIP's accuracy was 95.1%, while the 2D template’s was 81.1% (p < 0.05). Accuracy was unaffected by gender, side, or BMI but was by DDH classification. In subgroup analysis, AIHIP's mean absolute error (0.21 ± 0.54) was significantly lower than the 2D template’s (0.62 ± 0.95) for Crowe II and Crowe III (p < 0.05).

Conclusion
AIHIP is superior to 2D templates in predicting the acetabular cup size accurately for THA in DDH patients. AIHIP may be especially beneficial for Crowe II and III DDH patients, as 2D templates may not accurately predict cup size in these cases.
Effectiveness of online counselling during COVID-19 in Zambia: clients' and therapists' perspectives
Authors: Mulungu Choongo , Mindu Tafadzwa , Mulungu Kelvin 
Published: March 2024

AbstractPopulation-based studies have shown that a growing number of counsellors have been providing counselling via the Internet. There are mixed findings regarding the effectiveness of online counselling compared to traditional face-to-face counselling and other modalities. During the COVID-19 outbreak, online counselling services were advanced as the only safe means of attending to mental health conditions, especially during the lockdowns. However, the effectiveness of online counselling remains unclear, especially in developing countries with low digital literacy and poor Internet connectivity. This study's main purpose was to investigate and determine the clients' and therapists' perspectives on the effectiveness of online counselling during the pandemic based on the level of preparedness, mode of delivery, and challenges faced. The study used mixed methods employing a parallel convergent design and collected data from 284 participants (44 therapists and 240 counselling clients). The study found that therapists were not prepared to offer online counselling services, but were compelled by high demands for counselling services from clients during the pandemic. Both clients and therapists cited the cost of data bundles to connect to the Internet as a major barrier. Furthermore, both clients and therapists indicated that the most effective platform was video conferencing. The findings also show that therapists observed slowed progress in the client's recovery due to clients missing sessions. Logistic regression results on factors associated with preparedness and positive perception of online counselling showed that older therapists and lay counsellors were less likely to be prepared and evaluate sessions as less effective, respectively. Living in Lusaka (the capital) was associated with higher odds of perceiving online counselling as effective. Client results showed that older clients had lower odds of being prepared, and the counsellor being prepared increased the odds of the online counselling being perceived as effective. The researchers conclude that online counselling, in the context of a developing country, is ineffective because of the cost of Internet connection, the multiplicity of information communication technology (ICT) channels, low digital literacy, and lack of knowledge or experience using these platforms.
Knowledge and attitudes of medical students toward death: a cross-sectional comparative study between an Arab and a Western University
Authors: Hamadeh Randah R. , Abuelaish Izzeldin , Yousufzai Susan J. , AlShammari Yousef AT , Ahmed Yomna E. , Jahrami Haitham A. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Cultural factors influence attitudes toward death, and gender disparities are evident. Prior studies show that medical students have limited knowledge about death and are uncomfortable with it. Moreover, there is limited research that has examined factors that influence medical students’ knowledge and attitudes toward death.

Objectives
The objectives of the study were to compare cultural and gender differences in relation to knowledge and attitudes toward loss and grief and to screen for complicated grief among medical students at the Arabian Gulf University and the University of Toronto.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was disseminated to medical students at both universities in 2022. The variables in the survey included four parts: demographic characteristics of the participants, religious observance, history of encountering loss of a loved one, grief following loss, attitude toward death, and learning about how to deal with grief and death during medical school. The brief grief questionnaire and the death attitude profile-revised scales were used.

Results
The study sample consisted of 168 medical students, with 74.1% being female. Complicated grief scores were higher among Arabian Gulf University students (3.87 ± 2.39) than among University of Toronto students (2.00 ± 1.93) and were higher for participants with a higher degree of religious observance in both schools (p < 0.05). Death avoidance (p = 0.003), approach acceptance (p < 0.001), and escape acceptance (p = 0.038) domains were significantly higher among Arabian Gulf University students than among University of Toronto students. Almost three-quarters of University of Toronto students reported not being taught about grief, compared to 54% of Arabian Gulf University students.

Conclusions
Arabian Gulf University medical students scored higher on complicated grief, most likely due to cultural and religious factors. Females at both institutions as well as those who indicated a higher level of religious observance reported higher scores of complicated grief. The study highlights how cultural and religious beliefs influence medical students’ attitudes toward death and bereavement. It provides valuable insight into the knowledge and attitudes of medical students toward loss.
Exploring Durrës between East and West: discovery of a protostonepaste—archaeological context and archaeometric analysis
Authors: Casolino Chiara , Falcone Francesca , Perna Maria Grazia , Metalla Elvana , Rosatelli Gianluigi , Stoppa Francesco , Antonelli Sonia 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This research delves into the investigation of a ceramic sample discovered in the southern sector of the Durrës Amphitheatre, with a primary focus on comprehending its composition, origin, and cultural importance. The sample reveals similarities with protostonepaste through meticulous chemical analysis, yet a more profound correlation with protostonepaste concerning normative composition. Despite its porcelain-like external appearance, the ceramic demonstrates chemical consistency with a finely balanced amalgamation of crushed kaolinised leucogranite, frits, and talc, accounting for a dominant proportion of 60% compared to the other constituents. Our findings suggest that the ceramic traces its origin to Iran, specifically the Kashan and Qamsar areas, dating back to the twelfth century. The geological attributes of the region have significantly influenced the choice of raw materials for producing high-temperature ceramics. Additionally, the presence of arsenic and cobalt in the glaze further corroborates its Iranian provenance. This discovery significantly accentuates Durrës' pivotal role as a crucial conduit for East–West interactions, including its historical ties with Venice. Trade links between Durrës and Syrian–Iranian area were established as early as the tenth century. Furthermore, the analysed ceramic fragment was unearthed within a layer corresponding to a period of abandonment within the productive context. This period dates to the late twelfth century—early thirteenth century. These findings offer compelling evidence of this urban sector's continued commercial and economic significance throughout the central centuries of the Middle Ages.
Retrograde transvenous thoracic duct embolization for lymphatic leakage after retroperitoneal tumor and lymph node resection: a case report and literature review
Authors: Kinoshita Go , Morisaki Koichi , Okamoto Daisuke , Aoyagi Takehiko , Yoshino Shinichiro , Inoue Kentaro , Yoshizumi Tomoharu 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Postoperative lymphatic leakage is a complication of ineffective conservative treatment for retroperitoneal mass. Herein, we report a case of lymphatic leakage that arose after retroperitoneal tumor resection and that was treated with retrograde transvenous thoracic duct embolization.

Case presentation
A 28-year-old man with persistent abdominal pain was diagnosed with a large retroperitoneal metastatic tumor measuring 10 cm and a subdiaphragmatic lymph node originating from a testicular tumor. After high orchidectomy and neoadjuvant chemotherapy, the subdiaphragmatic lymph node and retroperitoneal tumor were resected together with the abdominal aorta; the latter was reconstructed using a prosthetic graft. Postoperatively, the patient developed chylothorax. No improvement was observed after conservative treatment that included fasting and somatostatin therapy. The leakage site could not be identified using antegrade lymphangiography of the bilateral inguinal lymph nodes, but was detected using retrograde transvenous lymphangiography. The leakage site was successfully embolized.

Conclusion
This case report describes successful treatment with retrograde transvenous thoracic duct embolization for chylothorax following resection of a retroperitoneal tumor and lymph node. This approach is a less invasive and more effective mode of treatment for chylothorax and should be considered before surgical thoracic duct ligation when the leakage point cannot be identified using the antegrade approach.
A guide to barley mutants
Authors: Hansson Mats , Youssef Helmy M. , Zakhrabekova Shakhira , Stuart David , Svensson Jan T. , Dockter Christoph , Stein Nils , Waugh Robbie , Lundqvist Udda , Franckowiak Jerome 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Mutants have had a fundamental impact upon scientific and applied genetics. They have paved the way for the molecular and genomic era, and most of today’s crop plants are derived from breeding programs involving mutagenic treatments.

Results
Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one of the most widely grown cereals in the world and has a long history as a crop plant. Barley breeding started more than 100 years ago and large breeding programs have collected and generated a wide range of natural and induced mutants, which often were deposited in genebanks around the world. In recent years, an increased interest in genetic diversity has brought many historic mutants into focus because the collections are regarded as valuable resources for understanding the genetic control of barley biology and barley breeding. The increased interest has been fueled also by recent advances in genomic research, which provided new tools and possibilities to analyze and reveal the genetic diversity of mutant collections.

Conclusion
Since detailed knowledge about phenotypic characters of the mutants is the key to success of genetic and genomic studies, we here provide a comprehensive description of mostly morphological barley mutants. The review is closely linked to the International Database for Barley Genes and Barley Genetic Stocks (bgs.nordgen.org) where further details and additional images of each mutant described in this review can be found.
Heterogeneity in the prevalence of subclinical malaria, other co-infections and anemia among pregnant women in rural areas of Myanmar: a community-based longitudinal study
Authors: Aung Poe Poe , Han Kay Thwe , Groot Wim , Biesma Regien , Thein Zaw Win , Htay Thura , Lin Zaw , Aye Kyin Hla , Adams Matthew , Pavlova Milena 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Background
Due to the low prevalence of clinically suspected malaria among pregnant women in Myanmar, little is known about its impact on mothers and newborns. Helminth and Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) co-infections cause anemia in pregnant women. This study assessed the prevalence of subclinical malaria and co-infections among pregnant women, and its association with adverse outcomes of pregnancy in the presence of infection.

Methods
A prospective longitudinal study was conducted in 12 villages in two townships in Myanmar between 2013 to 2015. A total of 752 pregnant women, with a mean age of 27 years, were enrolled and followed up once a month until six weeks after childbirth. Prevalence ratio was calculated in the multivariable analysis.

Results
The prevalence of subclinical malaria as measured by nested PCR was 5.7% for either P. falciparum or P. vivax, 2.7% prevalence of P. falciparum and 2.8% prevalence of P. vivax. Helminth infections were prevalent in 17% of women, and one woman with an HIV infection was found in our study. The burden of anemia was high, with an overall prevalence of 37% with or without helminth infection, 42% of the women were malaria positive and 43% had dual infections (both malaria and helminth). Only 11 abnormal pregnancy outcomes (7 stillbirths, 2 premature, 2 twins) were identified. Poisson regression showed that women in their first trimester had a 2.9 times higher rate of subclinical malaria compared to women in the third trimester (PR:2.9, 95%CI 1.19, 7.31, p = 0.019), women who were enrolled during the wet season were 2.5 times more likely to be malaria positive than the women enrolled in the dry season (PR: 2.5, 95%CI 1.27, 4.88, p = 0.008), and the malaria positivity rate decreased by 5% when increased in one year of woman’s age (PR:0.95, 95%CI 0.91, 0.99, p = 0.02). In the multivariable regression, the age of respondents was the only significant factor associated with subclinical malaria in pregnancy.

Conclusions
A comprehensive approach of integrating interventions for malaria, anemia, and helminths should be delivered during antenatal care services for pregnant women in rural areas of Myanmar.