bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exosomal circRNAs derived from cancer cells predict the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma after surgery: the development and validation of prognostic and recurrent nomograms
Authors: yin kun-li , Sun Tai-wei , Duan Yu-xin , Ye Wen-Tao , Li Ming , Liao Rui 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Liquid biopsies, for example, exosomal circular RNA (circRNA) can be used to assess potential predictive markers for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients after curative resection. This study aimed to search for effective prognostic biomarkers for HCC in patients after surgical resection based on exosomal circRNA expression profiles. We developed two nomograms incorporating circRNAs to predict the postoperative recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) of HCC patients.
Method
Plasma exosomes isolated from HCC patients and healthy individuals were used for circRNA microarray analysis to explore differentially expressed circRNAs. Pearson correlation analysis was used to evaluate the correlation between circRNAs and clinicopathological features. Cox regression analysis was used to explore the correlation between circRNA and postoperative survival time as well as recurrence time. A nomogram based on circRNA and clinicopathological characteristics was established and further evaluated to predict prognosis and recurrence.
Result
Among 60 significantly upregulated circRNAs and 25 downregulated circRNAs, hsa_circ_0029325 was selected to verify its power for predicting HCC outcomes. The high expression level of exosomal hsa_circ_0029325 was significantly correlated with OS (P = 0.006, HR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.21–3.18) and RFS (P = 0.024, HR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.06–2.23). Among 273 HCC patients, multivariate regression analysis showed that hsa_circ_0029325 (HR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.21–3.18), tumor size (HR = 2.11, 95% CI: 1.33–3.32), clinical staging (HR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.54–3.48), and tumor thrombus (HR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.12–2.7) were independent risk factors for poor prognosis in HCC patients after radical resection. These independent predictors of prognosis were incorporated into the two nomograms. The AUCs under the 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year survival and recurrence curves of the OS and RFS nomograms were 0.755, 0.749, and 0.742 and 0.702, 0.685, and 0.642, respectively. The C-index, calibration curves, and clinical decision curves showed that the two prediction models had good predictive performance. These results were verified in the validation cohort with 90 HCC patients
Conclusion
Our study established two reliable nomograms for predicting recurrence and prognosis in HCC patients. We also show that it is feasible to screen potential predictive markers for HCC after curative resection through exosomal circRNA expression profile analysis.
Association of intestinal leakage with frailty in patients with age-related diseases
Authors: Qaisar Rizwan , Karim Asima , Muhammad Tahir , Iqbal M. Shahid , Khan Javaidullah , Ahmad Firdos 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Frailty is a geriatric syndrome that precedes disability and is a common finding in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic heart failure (CHF), and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The contribution of increased intestinal permeability to frailty phenotype in patients with COPD, CHF, and AD is poorly known.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional, multicenter study of older men, including controls and patients with COPD, CHF, and AD (n = 37—48/group). We used Fried's cardiovascular health study (CHS) criteria to measure frailty and measured plasma zonulin levels as a biomarker of intestinal permeability. We also measured plasma c-reactive protein (CRP), 8-isoprostanes, and creatine kinase (CK) levels as markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and muscle damage, respectively.
Results
Frail patients exhibited higher plasma zonulin than pre-frail patients, irrespective of disease type (all p < 0.05). Plasma zonulin exhibited significant positive associations with CHS frailty index, which were strongest in the control group, followed by CHF, COPD, and AD patients, respectively (all p < 0.05). Plasma zonulin demonstrated significantly high areas under the curve in diagnosing frailty in controls and patients with COPD, CHF, and AD (all p < 0.05). In the frail vs. pre-frail comparisons, we also found elevated plasma CK levels in CHF and AD patients, elevated CRP levels in COPD patients, and elevated 8-isoprostanes in AD patients (all p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Together, our data indicate the potential contribution of the disrupted intestinal mucosal barrier and elevated plasma zonulin to frailty phenotype in patients with COPD, CHF, and AD.
Evaluation and Projections of Summer Daily Precipitation over Northeastern China in an Optimal CMIP6 Multi-model Ensemble
Authors: Zi-Liang LI , Xin-Zhe Jiao 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
In the early summer of 2022, the average precipitation in Northeastern China (NEC) was 144.9 mm, which was 62% higher than the normal precipitation (89.5 mm), and was the largest amount of precipitation since historical records began in 1951. Based on the CN05.1 precipitation data, the summer precipitation simulated by the sixth Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) model was evaluated in the NEC region. The model performs well in reproducing the climatological spatial distribution and interannual variability of precipitation. The simulation effect of a multi-model ensemble is better than that of a single model. The top three optimal models (EC-Earth3-Veg, EC-Earth3 and MPI-ESM1-2-LR) can constitute the optimal model ensemble (HMME). Compared with a single model and an ensemble of all 20 models, HMME significantly reduces the wet bias on the southeastern side of the Da Xing-AN Ling Mountains. HMME projects that daily precipitation will show an increasing trend in NEC region from 2015 to 2100. Under the two scenarios of SSP245 and SSP585, the increase rates of precipitation are 0.05mm/10a and 0.15mm/10a respectively. Although precipitation trends varied between scenarios at different times of the year, by the end of the 21st century, precipitation increased significantly across the region, with the largest increase in precipitation located in the southern part of northeastern China.
Getting into a good headspace: A study protocol of an efficacy trial for an eating disorder prevention program in an Australian youth mental health service
Authors: Burton Amy L. , Hatoum Amaani H. , Berry Sophie L. , Hamilton Blake 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Eating disorders (EDs) are serious, deadly disorders that emerge in adolescence and early adulthood. Further, reported incidences of EDs are increasing worldwide. As such, accessible, affordable, and effective early intervention and prevention efforts are critical. The Body Project is a well-established ED prevention program with demonstrated success at reducing ED symptom severity and the risk of onset of EDs in young females. However, it has not yet been formally evaluated in an Australian population, nor have the benefits of the treatment for young people of all genders been thoroughly investigated. This protocol paper outlines the design for a study which aims to investigate the outcomes and feasibility of the Body Project as a brief ED prevention program within an Australian youth mental health service: headspace Camperdown. This efficacy trial will compare outcomes between a Body Project treatment group and a Treatment-as-usual control group. Primary outcomes include body image concerns, ED symptomatology and general psychological distress, measured pre- and post-treatment, and at one-month follow-up. All young people attending headspace Camperdown for care are eligible for participation in the trial. The Body Project program is comprised of four group-based 1.5-hour sessions run over four consecutive weeks. Overall, a trial of the Body Project as an ED prevention program is warranted to investigate the outcomes of the intervention in this sample and will provide valuable information about the feasibility for widespread implementation of the treatment as part of a stepped-care approach to intervention for EDs at youth mental health service locations across Australia.
Rapid phenotypic differentiation in the iconic Japanese knotweed s.l. invading novel habitats
Authors: Yuan Wei , Pigliucci Massimo , Richards Christina 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms that underlie plant invasions is critical for management and conservation of biodiversity. At the same time, invasive species also provide a unique opportunity to study rapid adaptation to complex environmental conditions. Using four replicate reciprocal transplant experiments across three habitats, we described patterns of phenotypic response and assessed the degree of local adaptation in knotweed populations. We found plants from beach habitats were generally smaller than plants from marsh and roadside habitats when grown in their home habitat. In the marsh habitat, marsh plants were generally larger than beach plants, but not different from roadside plants. There were no differences among plants grown in the roadside habitat. We found mixed evidence for local adaptation: plants from the marsh habitat had greater biomass in their “home” sites, while plants from beaches and roadsides had greater survival in their “home” sites compared to other plants. In sum, we found phenotypic differentiation and some support for the hypothesis of rapid local adaptation of plants from beach, marsh and roadside habitats. Identifying whether these patterns of differentiation result from genetic or heritable non-genetic mechanisms will require further work.
Dynamics of Explosive Eruptions of Changbaishan Volcano, NE China, since the late Pleistocene from the Composition and Texture of Pumice
Authors: Yu Hongmei , Zhao Bo , Chen Zhengquan , Xu Jiandong 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

The explosive eruptions of Changbaishan volcano in NE China since the late Pleistocene produced large amounts of pyroclastic products, including from the Tianwenfeng (TWF) eruption, the Chifeng stage of the Millennium Eruption (ME-Com), and the Yuanchi stage of the Millennium Eruption (ME-Tr). In this study, we analyzed the differences among these pumices and the magma characteristics reflected in the field stratigraphy, particle size, petrography, and geochemistry. We quantitatively analyzed pumice texture and placed constraints on the eruption dynamics and intensities. For the first time, the ME-Tr pumices are determined to show two colors: earth-yellow and black, which erupted in a pulsing pattern at the first stage of ME-Tr eruption. Both components have trachyte compositions, but the SiO2 contents of the black pumice (59.5–60.6 wt%, ME-Tr-b) are slightly lower than those of the earth-yellow pumice (62.1–63.3 wt%, ME-Tr-a). The black pumice at the Tianwenfeng summit is speculated to be a product of the late ME-Tr eruption (ME-Tr-c). The variety of magma compositions and strata indicates that there may be three main crustal magma batches (ME-Com, ME-Tr-a and ME-Tr-b) of distinct compositions and temperatures were involved during the ME. The vesicle number density of the TWF pumice was the highest, as were the calculated height of the eruption column (23–32 km), and, consequently, the mass eruption rate. The eruption intensity of the ME was high during the ME-Com (24–25 km), and decreased during the ME-Tr (19–23 km). The results of this study improve our understanding of the eruption mechanisms, and the hazard assessments linked to the future Changbaishan eruptions.
Association between employment status and suicidal ideation : Korea national health and nutrition examination survey
Authors: Kim Sun Mi , Oh Jae-won , Son Nak-hoon , Lee San 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background: Employment status is a key indicator of socioeconomic status, and unstable employment conditions can cause various social problems. However, research in Asian cultures for the association between employment status and mental health has been limited. This study investigated the association between employment status and suicidal ideation in general population in South Korea.
Methods: Using data from the 2015, 2017, and 2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES), 6,509 participants aged ≥ 20 years were analyzed. Suicidal ideation was characterized by individuals considering suicide seriously within the past year. Covariates were adjusted to account for factors such as sociodemographic, health behavior, and mental health factors. Multivariable logistic regression and subgroup analysis were performed.
Results: In our KNHANES data analysis, unemployed status demonstrated 1.85 times more suicidal ideation than employed (adjusted Odd Ratio (aOR) 1.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.41-2.44, p < .001). Low educational attainment (aOR 2.12, 95% CI 1.51-2.98, p < .001), low income (aOR 1.61, CI 1.22 -2.14, p < .001), presence of stress recognition (aOR 3.06, 95% CI 2.33-4.02, p < .001), and depression (aOR 13.0, 95% CI 10.0-16.9, p < .001) were also associated with suicidal ideation. In subgroup analysis, all covariates, except women and low body mass index, demonstrated combined effects with employment status on suicidal ideation.
Conclusions: This study demonstrated a significant association between employment status and suicidal ideation. Comprehensive supportive measures, including policy interventions and a variety of assistance, are crucial to mitigate the risk of suicidal ideation among the unemployed.
Prebiotic membrane structures mimic the morphology of purported early traces of life on Earth
Authors: Jordan Seán , Zuilen Mark van , Rouillard Joti , Martins Zita , Lane Nick 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Elucidating the most probable compositions of the first cell membranes prior to the origin of life, within a laboratory setting, requires experiments with organic molecules and chemical conditions representative of those present on the early Earth. As such, the membrane forming molecules used in these experiments are described as ‘prebiotically plausible’, i.e., they could have formed through abiotic reactions and be available for membrane formation prior to the emergence of biology. Similarly, the chemical properties of solutions in which these membranes are formed (e.g., pH, temperature, ionic strength) must represent the early Earth environmental conditions under investigation. Here, using a combined confocal and transmission electron microscopy approach, we show that prebiotically plausible organic molecules, in solutions representative of Hadean submarine alkaline hydrothermal vents, form aggregated structures with substantial morphological diversity. The structures hold the potential for use as traces of prebiotic processes in the ancient rock record. In addition, many of the structures are morphologically similar to those which are presented as early microfossils, thus highlighting the limitations of morphological interpretation in these types of studies. Detailed analyses of abiotic organic structures are essential for our understanding of the earliest living organisms on Earth, as well as for our interpretation of any potential biosignatures recovered in the future from extra-terrestrial bodies.
Physicochemical quality properties of peach (Prunus persica L.) varieties at Holetta, Ethiopia
Authors: Mosie Tajebe , Setu Habtam , Seleshi Getaneh 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Holetta has different peach fruit varieties that could be used for various purposes. However, their fruit quality characteristics were not fully identified. Studies have indicated that the physicochemical qualities of peach fruits are influenced by a number of factors, with the varietal factor being one of the most important. Limited information regarding the factors that affect these qualities is available in the country, specifically at Holetta. Therefore, this study was initiated to evaluate the physicochemical quality properties of peach fruit varieties. Their physical quality traits such as fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit shape index, and average fruit weight, as well as chemical quality parameters like TSS, specific gravity, TA, ripening index, ascorbic acid content, and pH, were evaluated. The result revealed that both physical and chemical quality parameters were significantly affected by varietal factors. Amongst, Bonny Gold variety had the longest fruit length and Florida down had the largest fruit diameter. As far as average fruit weight is concerned, 88 − 18 W had the heaviest weight with 111.98 g, while Transvalia had the highest TSS and specific gravity. However, the Summersun and 9A-35C varieties recorded the highest TA and ripening index, respectively. Thus, the fruit’s physicochemical quality properties were highly altered with peach varieties.
C-5401331 identified as a novel T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (Tim-3) inhibitor to control acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cell proliferation
Authors: Shahrani Mesfer Al , Gahtani Reem M , Makkawi Mohammed 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing protein 3 (Tim-3) is a checkpoint protein expressed in exhausted T-cells during cancer scenarios. This exhaustion may end in T-cell effector dysfunction, resulting in suboptimal control of cancers like acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Use of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) to block checkpoint receptors such as Tim-3 is an emerging, revolutionary concept in the immuno-oncology therapeutic arena; however, ICIs are not effective on myeloid malignancies. Here, a multifaceted approach is utilized to identify novel compounds that target and inhibit Tim-3 with improved efficacy. High-throughput virtual screening of the ChemBridge small molecule library and molecular dynamics simulation yielded a lead molecule C-5401331 predicted to bind with high affinity and inhibit the activity of Tim-3. In vitro evaluations demonstrated the compound to have anti-proliferative effects on Tim-3-positive populations of THP-1 and HC-5401331 AML cells, inducing early and late phase apoptosis. With further development, the lead molecule identified in this work has potential to aid the natural “gatekeeper” functions of the body in immunocompromised AML cancer patients by successfully hampering the binding of Tim-3 to T-cells.
Dietary and potential oat transmission during the Eastern Zhou Guanzhong: evidence from residual starch granules analysis from the Liujiawa site
Authors: CHEN Yutong , Sun Zhanwei , Chong Jianrong , Zhang Zhao , Lam Wengcheong 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Food plays a significant role in delineating boundaries between ethnic groups, facilitating the exchange of culinary traditions. The article presents the first analysis of starch granule residues found in the Guanzhong basin dating back to the Spring-and-Autumn period. By examining starch granule discovered on the inner surface of pottery excavated at the Liujiawa site, the capital of the Rui State, this study addresses gaps in the understanding of culinary practices during the Eastern Zhou period in the Guanzhong region. Moreover, it provides new insights into potential cultural interactions during this dynamic period. The identification results suggest a significant utilization of Panicoideae, potentially encompassing foxtail millet, broomcorn millet, and Job's tears, alongside oats. Additionally, Triticeae, which includes wheat, barley, and related crops, emerges as a relatively prominent food resource in the region. The presence of oats at the Liujiawa site is suggestive of interactions and cultural exchanges with northern populations, corroborating with other lines of archaeological evidence related to the same vassal state. This research sheds light on the multifaceted interplay of food, culture, and migration during the Spring-and-Autumn period, revealing the complexities of culinary traditions in the region.
Disruption of insulin receptor substrate 2 (Irs2) causes non-obese type 2 diabetes with β-cell dysfunction in the golden (Syrian) hamster
Authors: Hirose Michiko , Inoue Kimiko , Matoba Shogo , Tatebe Takaki , Tokita Syun , Dodo Yukiko , Tomishima Toshiko , Hasegawa Ayumi , Honda Arata , Ozaki Mao , Shinogi Akiko , Yanagisawa Ryoko , Inagaki Nobuya , Tamura Masaru , Ogura Atsuo 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Because of the advent of genome-editing technology, gene knockout (KO) hamsters have become attractive research models for diverse diseases in humans. This study established a new KO model of diabetes by disrupting the insulin receptor substrate-2 (Irs2) gene in the golden (Syrian) hamster. Homozygous KO animals were born alive but delayed postnatal growth until adulthood. They showed hyperglycemia, high HbA1c, and impaired glucose tolerance. However, they normally responded to insulin stimulation, unlike Irs2 KO mice, an obese type 2 diabetes (T2D) model. Consistent with this, Irs2 KO hamsters did not increase serum insulin level upon glucose administration and showed β-cell hypoplasia in their pancreas. Thus, our Irs2 KO hamsters provide a unique T2D animal model that is distinct from the obese T2D models. This model may contribute to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of human non-obese T2D with β-cell dysfunction, the most common type of T2D in East Asian countries, including Japan.
Monitoring fetal well-being and delivery outcomes in pregnancies complicated by gestational and pregestational diabetes
Authors: Tagliaferri Salvatore , Steyde Giulio , Trinchillo Maria Giuseppina , Campanile Marta , Spairani Edoardo , Maruotti Giuseppe Maria , Magenes Giovanni , Signorini Maria Gabriella 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Background
diabetes is a very common pregnancy complication. This study aims to compare measurements taken during antenatal monitoring in the third trimester and delivery outcome data in pregnancies complicated by maternal diabetes with respect to healthy controls.
Methods
a prospective observational study included a total of 152 pregnant women. 25 had a diagnosis of pregestational diabetes mellitus (PGDM) and 61 were diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The remaining 66 were controls. Data collected antepartum for all pregnancies include ultrasound fetal biometry and amniotic fluid evaluation, Umbilical and Middle Cerebral Artery Pulsatility Index (UA-PI, MCA-PI) and computerized CTG (cCTG) monitoring. The mode of delivery and neonatal data, including umbilical cord gas values, were also obtained. The values collected were compared between groups.
Results
GDM and PGDM groups showed significantly lower values of UA-PI compared to Controls (p < 0.001) and GDMs assumed slightly lower values of MCA-PI compared to Controls (p = 0.028). Some cCTG parameters showed small but significant differences among groups. The analyzed groups presented significant differences in the umbilical artery gas analysis values at birth, which were affected by the mode of delivery. The pH was lower in PGDMs compared to both GDMs (p = 0.0279) and Controls (p < 0.0001), and spontaneous deliveries were associated with lower pH values (p = 0.008). pO2 significantly decreased from Controls to GDMs and PGDMs, respectively (Controls vs GDMs p = 0.0057, Controls vs PGDMs p < 0.001, GDMs vs PGDMs p = 0.0002) while pCO2 followed an opposite trend (Controls vs GDMs p < 0.001, Controls vs PGDMs p < 0.001, GDMs vs PGDMs p = 0.0014). Lactates were higher in PGDMs compared to both other groups (Controls vs PGDMs: p = 0.0128, GDMs vs PGDMs: p = 0.0161) and were higher in vaginal deliveries compared to cesarean sections (p = 0.017).
Conclusions
The results suggest that to date there are no antenatal monitoring methods that can accurately define the true well-being of the fetus in pregnancies complicated by diabetes. In fact, neonatal outcome data show greater differences between groups than those identified antepartum by the analyzed methods. We hypothesize that only a multi-parametric/multimodal approach can help in antepartum management.